Around here, the real story isn’t just what’s happening — it’s who’s making it happen. We checked in with some local standouts who are giving back, speaking up and finding creative ways to make a difference. Their answers? Candid, thoughtful and full of good surprises.
Kellie Johnson
Kellie’s Blue Moon Estate Sales
Q: What community issue needs more attention?
A: Waste. We throw away so much that shouldn’t go in a dumpster. At Kellie’s, we’re committed to emptying homes sustainably — recycling, donating, selling or giving away usable items. There’s always someone who can use something. Wastefulness is a big problem, and sustainability is at the heart of what we do.
Samantha Le
Martin Commercial Properties
Q: What cause do you always support?
A: I love supporting causes that uplift women. That’s why I think the Lady Classic is such an important event — it celebrates and supports women in our community. I also serve on the board of the Capital City Film Festival and the International Film Festival in Lansing — amazing platforms that uplift the arts. And I’m on the board of the Red Cross Mid-Michigan Chapter, which supports families impacted by natural disasters.
Josh Pease
Public defender
Q: What community issue needs more attention?
A: Affordable housing. The market’s been broken for years. Inflation has cut into incomes, and people — especially the elderly or those with limited means — are struggling to find affordable places to live. It’s not just the poor — this affects everyone. When the most vulnerable can’t find housing, it eventually impacts the middle class too. We need to fix it.
Sherri Day
Kellie’s Blue Moon Estate Sales
Q: What cause do you always support?
A: Recycling, repurposing — everything has a purpose. I’ve been with Kellie’s for 16 years because I love seeing old things find new life. Vintage items carry history, stories and character. We’re helping people reconnect with the past. I especially love seeing younger folks get excited about owning a piece of history. When something is saved from the landfill and brought into a new home, it gains value beyond money. Not everything should end up in a dumpster. If it can be repurposed, it should be.
Julie Tagsam
WLNS-TV 6
Q: Do you think businesses should give back more?
A: After 20 years working with local businesses, I’ve learned this: Those that give back tend to make the biggest impact. People want to support companies that care. Take Phil Tripp of Phil Tripp Auto Sales. About 20 years ago, he told me, “I’m done advertising. I’m Hot Air Jubilee in Jackson — because even $5 matters to a family. He began sponsoring events across Lansing and Jackson, and his business quadrupled. At first, I thought he was crazy — but then I saw the results. You really do reap what you sow. I’ve since worked with others who followed the same model, and it always pays off — for their business and the community.
Dave Busch
Dave Busch is a creative advertising writer with a knack for big ideas and memorable messaging. Off the clock, he and his wife have a hobby farm populated by rescue animals – including goats, chickens, peafowl, ducks, cats, a dog and one potbelly pig named William.
