Mount Clemens, MI December 2025

GIFTS + GIVING

The Sweetest Gifts

Hello, my friends,

The sweetest gifts aren’t wrapped in paper or tied with bows—they’re found in the quiet moments of kindness, in the laughter of family, and in traditions lovingly passed from one generation to the next.

This Gifts + Giving issue celebrates the many ways our community gives from the heart. In Hope in Action, we shine a light on the remarkable people in our local churches and service clubs who dedicate their time to help those in need—creating small miracles through simple acts of compassion. Their selfless spirit is a reminder that the greatest gifts are the ones we share.

Our Gift Guide brings a little twinkle to your shopping list. Inspired by The 12 Days of Christmas, I’ve curated twelve of my favorite finds from right here in our community—beautiful, thoughtful pieces perfect for giving (or keeping!).

Then, we’re turning up the holiday sparkle with The Holiday Glam Edit—because it’s time to bring back dressing up for the holidays. Whether it’s sequins at brunch or cozy knits by the fire, there’s joy in feeling festive.

You’ll also find a toast to the season in Winter in a Glass, where a few local mixologists share their recipes for cheer, and one final feature especially close to my heart: a beloved family recipe from my Polish grandmother, my Babci, Janina Janowicz - the original Martha Stewart, if you ask me!

Every Christmas, Babci made trays of Kołaczki—delicate, jewel-toned cookies filled with raspberry, poppyseed, or almond. She’d send us home with a foil-lined box, which my dad promptly hid on top of the refrigerator so we wouldn’t finish them all in one sitting. Of course, I’d always hear the rustling of his hand in that box—busted!

Those cookies were her gift to us, and now, this recipe is my gift to you. May it fill your home with the same sweetness, warmth, and love.

With love and powdered sugar,

KIMBERLY A. JANOWICZ, PUBLISHER

December 2025

PUBLISHER

Kimberly Janowicz | kimberly.janowicz@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Marshall Zweig | marshall.zweig@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Marshall Zweig, Kimberly Janowicz, Arsine Kaloustian

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER

Janie Jones

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Rachel Kolich

LAYOUT DESIGNER Kathy Nguyen

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell

www.chaosstudiosalon.com

Host a private spa party where wellness meets celebration in a serene, saltinfused setting. Enjoy a relaxing Salt Therapy session, a Mimosa Bar, cozy robes, and time to sip, socialize, and shop our boutique—perfect for holiday staff parties, birthdays, bridal showers, or a girls’ day out.

SALTSPASCS.COM | (586) 488-1276 | 45923 HAYES, SHELBY TWP (HAYES + NORTH OF HALL)

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

1-7: Book Club at Cellar 59 gathered over wine and treats to discuss Cork Dork and share laughter.

FINANCIAL ADVISOR COACH

Chaos Studio Salon Celebrates 20 Years of Style and Sisterhood

Founded by Jenn Magri, Chaos Studio Salon + Spa has spent 20 years earning the love and loyalty of Mount Clemens. Built on respect, love, and trust, this sisterhood of stylists has been part of life’s biggest moments— first dates, dances, and wedding days. Thank you for letting Chaos make you feel beautiful, confident, and cared for—every day. chaosstudiosalon.com

The Mount Clemens Farmers Market has once again been voted Michigan’s Best Farmers Market—for the third year in a row! This proud achievement celebrates our hardworking vendors, loyal shoppers, and spirited volunteers who fill every Saturday with flavor, friendship, and community. Though the season has ended, the spirit lives on—follow us on Facebook at Mount Clemens Farmers Market and join us next season as we keep the tradition growing strong!

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Win Daily CA$H While Supporting Mount Clemens Kiwanis Cause

Kick off the new year by giving back (and winning big!) Join the Mount Clemens Kiwanis Club Foundation’s Daily 3 Midday Fundraising Raffle, January 1–31, 2026. Tickets are $20 each with $250 winners daily, and a $500 winner on Saturdays. Proceeds benefit local youth and community programs. Purchase tickets from your favorite Kiwanis member, at Cabinetry By Better Bilt, or Printing by Johnson. mountclemenskiwanis.org

My son has been a student at Romanelli’s for over five years. I cannot express how great this dojo is. My son’s first experience with karate was through a school organization, and that teacher clearly did not know how to deal with young children. The instructors at Romanelli’s are unbelievably GREAT with children of all ages. They naturally modify their teaching styles and expectations based on each child’s individual age, level, and individual needs. The growth my son has shown in both selfesteem and physical abilities is unbelievable. I would HIGHLY recommend this dojo for children, teens, and adults.

Leslee Siefert, Mother of Zachary Siefert - Junior Black Belt Graduate

ARTICLE BY MARSHALL ZWEIG

MOUNT CLEMENS CHURCHES AND CHARITABLE ORGANIZATIONS ARE LIFTING SPIRITS WHO NEED IT MOST

HOPE IN ACTION

In Mount Clemens, generosity doesn’t have a season. We’re a town that shows up for its own. Yet every holiday season, our city fills with quiet acts of care that rarely make the headlines. This year, we’re giving these acts the spotlight they deserve, and letting you know how you can be part of the giving.

“THIS

One year, Korienna guided a father through the toy stations until he quietly asked to stop. “He told me, ‘My kids have never had a Christmas like this. I don’t want to overdo it,’” she recalls. “It was such a humble, grateful moment.” She also recalls a volunteer who distributed toys. “She said, ‘This

IS A WAY TO PUT OUR FAITH INTO ACTION.”

THE SALVATION ARMY: MIRACLES ON CHURCH STREET

Before she became assistant administrator at The Salvation Army, Korienna Cox admits she saw homelessness the way most people do: through a television lens. “It’s nothing like that,” she says now. “When you start learning their names and treating them like people, everything changes.”

Families with children up to age 16, and seniors 60 and older, apply online for holiday assistance. Once they’re approved, they receive food boxes, a Kroger gift card for their holiday meat of choice, and access to Santa’s Workshop: rooms lined with new, unwrapped toys donated through the Angel Tree program at local Walmarts.

“There’s nothing quite like watching parents pick out toys for their kids,” Cox says. “They know their children best. And for some families, this is the only Christmas they’ll have.”

was the most rewarding thing I’ve ever done.’ She came back every year until she couldn’t anymore.”

The Citadel’s work continues year-round: daily lunch service for the public, a weekday breakfast and shower program for the homeless, a youth character-building program, three addiction recovery meetings each week, and emergency aid for rent, utilities, and groceries. “Hunger, hardship, and loneliness don’t take holidays,” Cox notes.

Donations of time and money are both essential, but volunteers carry a special power. “At RegisterToRing. com , you can sign up to ring bells for us during kettle season,” she says. “Every volunteer hour saves us labor costs. And those dollars go directly back to families.”

Cox says the community’s generosity keeps the operation alive. “Share your joy,” she says, and her passion is evident.

CONTINUED >

“Bring hope to those feeling hopeless.” Then she quotes Galatians 5:13:  “Serve one another humbly in love.”

MOUNT CLEMENS KIWANIS: RINGING IN CHRISTMAS—LITERALLY

When you do see those red kettles, Mount Clemens Kiwanis members are often the volunteers standing beside them, bells in hand and smiles at the ready. The club’s partnership with The Salvation Army stretches back more than seventy years. “We usually take one full day, sometimes two, and fill every shift from morning till evening,” says longtime member Bill Moore. “People bring their families. One guy even showed up with a ukulele one year. It feels more like a celebration than a fundraiser.”

Kiwanis volunteers also serve lunch at the Citadel each month, preparing meals for roughly eighty people. “We know some of them by name,” Moore says. “It warms your heart while you’re warming their bellies.”

“Every volunteer hour saves us labor costs. And those dollars go directly back to families.”

— KORIENNA COX

GOODFELLOWS:

NO CHILD WITHOUT A CHRISTMAS

A few blocks away is another holiday tradition: the Mount Clemens Goodfellows, founded almost a century ago, give the gift of gifts. Their signature No Child Without a Christmas program provides toys and $75 vouchers for local kids. “Our sole purpose is helping families in Mount Clemens,” says Tony Kirkum, a third-generation Goodfellow. “We hold two main fundraisers: the Razzberry newspaper sale and the 777 raffle. And every dollar goes back to the community.”

In 2023, the all-volunteer Goodfellows supplied 117 families and 225 children with almost $30,000 of gifts and vouchers. Members, many of them continuing family legacies like Tony’s, shop for the children themselves. “It’s a brotherhood,” Kirkum says. “You’ve got ten guys buying toys for toddlers, others for teens. It keeps us connected.”

The heart of the program lives in small moments.

The Kirkum family has collected donations at the corner of Cass and Gratiot for decades. “A man pulled his semi into the turn lane once, got out, hugged my dad, and said, ‘You were the only reason I had Christmas as a kid.’ Two grown men just stood there crying,” he recalls.

“That’s when you know it’s all worth it.”

Donations can be made at MountClemensGoodfellows.com

ST. PETER CATHOLIC CHURCH: FAITH IN ACTION

At St. Peter Catholic Church, outreach is a way of life.

“We’ve served Mount Clemens for more than a century, with programs that meet both spiritual and physical needs,” says communications manager Elisabeth Kujawa.

Each winter, St. Peter’s Giving Tree program supplies gifts for nursing home residents and children in foster care. Last year, parishioners filled 1,200 gift tags. The church’s St. Vincent de Paul Food Pantry, open Wednesdays and Fridays from 9 a.m. to noon behind the parish office, provides

groceries, utility-bill assistance, and even help obtaining ID cards. In 2024, they distributed a record 575 turkeys to local families and veterans’ homes.

But when temperatures drop, St. Peter’s most urgent mission takes place downstairs, in the church basement. Their Warming Center, open every January through March, offers hot meals, clothing, and community.

“Our first day, we served five people,” says volunteer coordinator Lori Ches. “By the end of last season, we averaged sixty a day. One day we had eighty-eight.” Over the 36-day season, the center’s 74 volunteers served nearly 4,500 meals, and distributed 10,000 items of clothing, toiletries, and household goods.

Some guests are unhoused. Some are working but under-employed. Some are seniors on fixed incomes, seeking warmth and companionship. “It’s about feeding the hungry and clothing the naked—literally,” Ches says. “This is a way to put our faith into action.”

One young man came in with soaked shoes and aching feet. Volunteers discovered he had trench foot and sent him to the McLaren Hospital mobile medical bus parked outside. “He came back weeks later to thank us,” Ches recalls. “So we’ve actually saved lives.”

St. Peter’s also maintains a Blessing Box stocked with food and toiletries, and invites donations of winter wear, gift cards, or cash through the parish office. Its youth ministry runs Jingle for Jesus, a 15-year tradition that benefits Covenant House Detroit and Big Family of Michigan. And each December, the church caps the season with a Tree Lighting Ceremony where parishioners bring the Baby Jesus from their home nativity sets for a blessing before carols, cocoa, and Santa’s arrival.

OTHER CHURCHES UPLIFTING MOUNT CLEMENS

• Covenant Christian Center International (Bishop C.S. Oosterveen) hosts a weekly recovery ministry, Thursday feeding program, and Sunday worship at 10:30 a.m. They also teach life skills, provide

“SHARE YOUR JOY… BRING HOPE TO THOSE FEELING HOPELESS.”

addiction and trauma counseling, a food and clothing pantry, and youth mentorship through outdoor activities. They also use harvested game to feed the homeless: "We take young men out who don't have fathers and we teach them to hunt," says Dr. Oosterveen. "We hunt deer and pheasants here in Michigan, and I also have a hunter hunting bear, elk, moose, wild boar and alligator down in Florida. We use what we harvest to feed the homeless on our Thursday nights."

• Grace Episcopal Church held their annual Thanksgiving Fest on the Wednesday before Thanksgiving, and their Thanksgiving Day Breakfast, hosted by Women’s Transitional Ministries by God’s Design. Both are open to anyone in need.

• Tried Stone Missionary Baptist Church operates a weekly food pantry every Thursday, 11 a.m.–2 p.m. Macomb County residents can call (586) 4639422 to make an appointment.

Across Mount Clemens, from soup kitchens to church halls to street corners, the spirit of giving is alive and well. The Salvation Army’s Korienna Cox sums it up inspiringly: “God is still so good,” she says. “Even in the hard parts, we see His work here every day.”

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TWELVE TREASURES Wrapped in Local Love

A meaningful gift guide celebrating hometown joy and generosity

ARTICLE BY KIMBERLY JANOWICZ

Kimberly’s Favorite Finds

The holiday season always fills me with joy and gratitude. These are the gifts and local shops I truly love — the ones I give to family and friends each year. Beautiful, thoughtful, and close to home — just how giving should be!

There’s something undeniably special about giving a gift that tells a story — one that’s wrapped in care, connection, and a touch of hometown pride. This season, we’ve scoured boutiques, art studios, coffee shops, and salons across our community to uncover the most meaningful presents for everyone on your list.

Over the past month, we reached out to more than 30 local shops and artisans and were overwhelmed by the thoughtful submissions that poured in. Each one reflected the creativity, craftsmanship, and community spirit that make our area shine all year long. After much deliberation (and more than a few wish-list debates), we’ve narrowed it down to our Top 12 favorites — a nod to the 12 Days of Christmas.

From cozy comforts to show-stopping splurges, this curated collection celebrates the joy of gifting locally. Every candle poured, coffee roasted, and artwork created supports small-business owners who pour their hearts into what they do. These are the places where we shop, the products we love, and the people who make this community feel like home.

So whether you’re wrapping up something luxurious or simply meaningful, we invite you to give with intention — and maybe even treat yourself along the way. Because the best gifts aren’t just found; they’re shared.

SALT SPA GIFT BASKET | $179

A luxurious collection of self-care essentials — magnesium spray, lip gloss and oils, coconut oil, and a signature Salt Spa candle — beautifully curated to restore balance and glow. The perfect pampering pick-me-up for anyone who deserves relaxation. Available at Salt Spa , 45923 Hayes Rd, Shelby Twp.

BOTANICAL REED DIFFUSER | $38

Part floral arrangement, part home fragrance — this elegant diffuser blends everlasting botanicals with festive scent, creating a warm welcome for any room. A perfect hostess or holiday-home gift. Available at Riverside Vintage Market, 24368 Crocker Blvd, Clinton Twp.

BOTANICAL RESIN TRAY | $32

Hand-crafted with real pressed botanicals, each tray is a one-of-akind piece of functional art — perfect for jewelry, keys, or favorite keepsakes. Available at Riverside Vintage Market , 24368 Crocker Blvd, Clinton Twp.

BIRDREEL SMART CAMERA FEEDER | $300

Bring nature closer with 2K HD live streaming, AI bird recognition, and solar-powered convenience. The perfect gift for bird lovers who enjoy high-tech wonder and outdoor peace. Available at Wild Birds Unlimited , 20241 Hall Rd, Macomb.

HEAD SPA $100 | 60 MIN

Experience the ultimate scalp-care ritual in a tranquil setting. Steam, massage, and nourishing treatments melt away stress while revitalizing hair and mind. Add a blowout for a polished finish (+ $50, + 20 min). Available at Chaos Studio Salon , 93 N. Main St, Mount Clemens.

ARROWHEAD PENDANT + CHAIN | $4,300

Inspired by ancient artifacts, this 14K yellow-gold pendant exudes strength and timeless beauty. It’s a statement of elegance and craftsmanship. Designed by Aventi Jewelers , 64 Cherry St, Mount Clemens.

XPLORER MAPS MICHIGAN MUG | $15

Featuring exquisite map art by Chris Robitaille, these ceramic mugs celebrate Michigan’s natural beauty and adventurous spirit. Perfect for travelers, explorers, and your favorite coffee lover. Available at Stylish Upscale Boutique, 36562 Moravian, Clinton Twp.

WOODEN BOTTLE OPENER | $25

Hand-crafted in Michigan, these wooden openers feature sports logos, zip codes, or custom designs — a fun, personalized gift for game-day fans and home entertainers alike. Available at The Nest Collaborative, 66 Macomb Pl, Mount Clemens.

“FOREST FLOOR” WATERCOLOR | $500

Artist Mary Hartman captures the magic of nature’s patterns in this vibrant watercolor masterpiece — an elegant addition to any art lover’s collection. Available at The Anton Art Center, 125 Macomb Pl, Mount Clemens.

GAME DAY SPORTSWEAR | $20 –

$60

Show your Detroit team spirit in style! Locally made apparel for adults and kids — comfortable, spirited, and ready for every game. Available at The Nest Collaborative, 66 Macomb Pl, Mount Clemens.

FRESH ROASTED COFFEE | $28

Savor the season with festive blends like Cherry Christmas and Reindeer Crunch — freshly roasted to perfection. Also featuring rare Jamaican Blue Mountain and Hawaiian Kona. Available at Che Cosa Coffee, 24394 Crocker Blvd, Clinton Twp.

CERAMICS EXPERIENCE FOR FIVE | $300

Create lasting memories with a two-day workshop for up to five participants. Learn hand-building techniques and craft your own ceramic pieces — no experience needed! Available at The Anton Art Center, 125 Macomb Pl, Mount Clemens.

Ultimate Glam Edit

Holiday

Five statement trends blending warmth, shine, and sophistication

ARTICLE BY KIMBERLY JANOWICZ

MODERN GLAMOUR

Black, white, and gold create timeless sophistication.

DRAMATIC SHOULDERS

Open silhouettes add balance and visual intrigue.

GLITTER IN THE DAYLIGHT

Sequins and metallics sparkle beyond evening wear.

SHEER OVERLAYS

Romantic lace and mesh lend subtle allure.

LUXE KNIT COORDINATES

Soft white knits exude cozy holiday chic.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE

JONES

Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself, these holiday drinks are guaranteed to bring a little extra cheer to your cup.

HOLIDAY COCKTAILS & COZY CREATIONS

INGREDIENTS:

FESTIVE CRANBERRY GIN FIZZ

A bright, elegant cocktail with a foamy top and a hint of holiday spirit.

• 2 oz gin

• 1 oz cranberry juice

• 3/4 oz lemon juice

• 1/2 oz simple syrup

• 1 egg white

Optional: splash of sparkling water or club soda

Garnish: fresh rosemary or thyme sprig

In a cocktail shaker, combine gin, cranberry juice, lemon juice, simple syrup, and egg white. Shake vigorously for about 20 seconds to create the frothy top. Double strain into a chilled coupe glass to get that smooth, foamy top. Add a small splash of sparkling water if you’d like a bit of fizz. Gently place a sprig of rosemary or thyme on top of the foam.

INSTRUCTIONS: CONTINUED >

HOLIDAY SPICED GINGERBREAD LATTE

A warm, frothy, and festively spiced drink perfect for winter nights.

INSTRUCTIONS:

INGREDIENTS:

For the latte:

• 1 shot of espresso (or 1/2 cup strong brewed coffee)

• 3/4 cup milk

• 2 tbsp gingerbread syrup

• Whipped cream

For the gingerbread syrup:

• 1/2 cup water

• 1/2 cup brown sugar

• 1 tbsp molasses

• 1/2 tsp ground ginger

• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon

• 1/4 tsp nutmeg

• 1/8 tsp ground cloves

• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Optional toppings:

• Ground cinnamon or nutmeg for dusting

• Marshmallow

• Crushed gingerbread cookie around the rim or on top

Make the gingerbread syrup:

In a small saucepan, combine water, brown sugar, molasses, and spices. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened. Remove from heat, stir in vanilla extract, and let cool. Store in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. Prepare the drink:

Brew your espresso or strong coffee. Heat and froth your milk. In your glass, add 2 tablespoons of the gingerbread syrup. Pour in the espresso, then the steamed milk, stirring gently to combine. Spoon frothed milk or whipped cream on top. Dust with cinnamon or nutmeg.

Optional: Rim the glass with crushed gingerbread cookie crumbs for extra flair.

BOURBON VANILLA BEAN HOT CHOCOLATE

An ultra-creamy, chocolatey holiday drink with a hit of warm bourbon and a vanilla bean twist.

• 2 cups whole milk

• 1/2 cup heavy cream

INGREDIENTS:

• 1/2 cup high-quality dark chocolate (chopped or chips)

• 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder

• 2 tbsp sugar or maple syrup

• 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract

• Pinch of sea salt

• 2 oz bourbon

Topping: 4 large marshmallows

Optional garnish: grated dark chocolate, whipped cream, cinnamon

INSTRUCTIONS:

In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine milk, cream, cocoa powder, sugar, vanilla, and salt. Whisk until smooth and heated through. Add chopped dark chocolate and stir constantly until melted and silky. Lower heat if needed to avoid scorching.Remove from heat, then stir in bourbon. Taste and adjust sweetness or strength to your liking. Top with marshmallows. Add whipped cream, a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg, and shaved chocolate.

Optional: Add a pinch of cinnamon and cayenne for spicy depth

Kid-friendly version: Omit bourbon and add peppermint extract or caramel syrup instead.

SPICED CINNAMON RUM FLIP

A luscious holiday cocktail with warming spices, rich texture, and a beautiful cinnamon garnish.

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 oz dark or spiced rum

• 3/4 oz cinnamon simple syrup

• 1 oz heavy cream

• 1 whole egg

• Dash of ground nutmeg

• Dash of vanilla extract

Garnish: cinnamon stick and a light dusting of nutmeg or cinnamon

INSTRUCTIONS:

Make Cinnamon Simple Syrup:

Combine 1/2 cup sugar, 1/2 cup water, and 2 cinnamon sticks in a saucepan. Simmer for 10 mins, let cool, and strain. Store in the fridge.

Add rum, cinnamon syrup, cream, egg, vanilla, and a pinch of nutmeg to a shaker. Shake vigorously for 15–20 seconds to emulsify the egg. Strain into a coupe or stemmed glass like the one in your photo. Top with a cinnamon stick across the rim and a dusting of nutmeg or cinnamon.

Optional: Add 1/2 oz chilled espresso for a coffee kick.

Babci’s Christmas Kołaczki

ARTICLE BY KIMBERLY JANOWICZ

Delicate, fruit-filled Polish cookies that sparkle with sweet tradition and powdered sugar perfection

These tender, jewel-toned cookies are a beloved Polish Christmas tradition—flaky, buttery, and dusted with snowy sweetness.

Ingredients:

• ½ cup butter (softened)

• 4 oz cream cheese (softened)

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• fruit filling (Solo® Raspberry, Almond, or Poppyseed)

• 1 cup powdered sugar

Directions:

Step 1. Prepare the dough: In a large bowl, beat butter and cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add flour and mix until a soft dough forms.

Step 2. Chill: Divide dough in half, wrap each portion in plastic, and refrigerate until firm (about one hour).

Step 3. Shape and fill: Roll one portion at a time on a floured surface to ⅛-inch thickness. Cut into 3-inch squares and place one teaspoon of filling in the center. Bring two opposite corners together and pinch tightly to seal.

Step 4. Bake: Place on an ungreased cookie sheet, one inch apart. Bake at 375°F for 10–15 minutes or until lightly golden. Cool completely, then dust generously with sifted powdered sugar.

Yields about 2½ dozen cookies.

DECEMBER 6TH

Step Into Victorian Christmas Magic at the Crocker House

Crocker House Museum & Gardens, 15 Union Street, Mount Clemens, MI | 12:00 PM

Discover the warmth and wonder of a Victorian Christmas at the Crocker House Museum, where old traditions meet new memories, and the whole family can experience the joy of the season. Meet Santa and Mrs. Claus from 12PM – 3PM. Enjoy the holiday gift shop, bake sale, roasted chestnuts, and warm cider. Event 12PM – 4PM. Free Admission. Donations appreciated.

DECEMBER 6TH

Discover Christmas Charm Inside Mount Clemens’

Beautifully Decorated Homes

Crocker House Museum & Gardens, 15 Union Street, Mount Clemens, MI | 1:00 PM

Start the season with the Christmas Homes Tour! Step inside a curated collection of homes—historic and modern—each uniquely decorated and brimming with Christmas inspiration. From twinkling lights to timeless décor ideas, it’s a joyful celebration of community and style. Tours depart every half hour from the Crocker House Museum and run until 5 p.m. Transportation provided. Tickets on Eventbrite.

DECEMBER 13TH

Support Goodfellows: Buy a Razzberry Paper, Brighten a Child’s Christmas

Intersection of Cass Avenue & Gratiot Avenue, Mount Clemens | 9:00 AM

On Saturday, December 13, from 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM, the Mount Clemens

Goodfellows will sell their annual Razzberry Newspaper on street corners to ensure there’s No Child Without a Christmas. Every dollar raised goes to local families—no administrative costs, no salaries. With needs growing each year, your support is vital. Call 586468-7814, email mtclemgoodfellows@ gmail.com, or visit mountclemensgoodfellows.com to give hope.

DECEMBER 13TH

Mount Clemens Annual Light Parade

Downtown Mount Clemens, with viewing along Macomb Place and Walnut Street | 7:00 PM

Shine bright at the annual Mount Clemens Light Parade! Families and friends are invited to deck out their cars in twinkling holiday lights and join the procession through downtown. Lineup begins at 5 p.m. in the Towne Square Parking Lot, with the parade starting at 7 p.m. along Macomb Place and Walnut Street. Let’s light up the night!

DECEMBER 31ST

Kids New Year's Eve Celebration

The Discovery Center of Macomb, 54 Cherry Street, Mount Clemens | 4:00 PM

Mount Clemens hosts a celebration just for kids and families from 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM at The Discovery Center. The event includes kids' activities, movies, and popcorn. A face painter will be on hand. Face painting fees vary by design. Fireworks show for kids on Main Street at the Clock Tower at 9:00 PM. Visit discoverymacomb.org for more information.

DECEMBER 31ST

New Year's Eve Gala Event

Main & New Street, Downtown Mount Clemens | 9:30 PM

The New Year's Eve Gala takes place in the heart of historic Downtown Mount Clemens on Main & New Street, near the Clock Tower. Entertainment will rock the stage for a Times Square-esque street party with fireworks at midnight. Mount Clemens offers a wide array of restaurants and bars for dinner or to celebrate after the fireworks.

Winter Simmer

Magic

ARTICLE BY ARSINE KALOUSTIAN

FILL YOUR HOME WITH THE COZY SCENTS OF TART CRANBERRIES, BRIGHT CITRUS, AND WARMING SPICES

Creating stovetop potpourri is a delightful way to indulge in the scents of the festive season. This Cranberry Orange Potpourri combines sparkling notes of fresh citrus and cranberries with nostalgic spices and woodsy herbs to create a welcoming atmosphere.

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 cup fresh cranberries

• 1 orange, sliced

• 2 cinnamon sticks

• 1 teaspoon whole cloves

• 3 star anise

• 2 sprigs fresh rosemary

• 2-3 cups water (plus more as needed)

INSTRUCTIONS:

Combine cranberries, sliced orange, cinnamon sticks, cloves, star anise, and rosemary in a pot. Add 2-3 cups of water, ensuring the ingredients are submerged. Simmer on low heat, allowing the aromas to release. Check the water level, adding more as needed to prevent drying out. Simmer for several hours to fill your home with the scents of the season.

This potpourri is perfect for setting the holiday mood, whether you’re preparing for a family gathering or simply want your home to smell warm and inviting.

This holiday season, we’re especially thankful for our hometown clients who continue to support small businesses like ours. Your trust allows us to keep doing what we love—turning your dreams into reality. Wishing you joy, warmth, and gratitude this season!

The holidays are a time to celebrate — not stress about money. Whether you’re dreaming of a new home, planning renovations, or simply looking to ease monthly payments, enter the new year prepared.

Reach out to Diane at Mortgage 1 for expert guidance and personalized options. Call or email to get started!