Julie Bitely

A storyteller and editor by trade, I love creating and sharing helpful, informative content. I'm happily married and have two smart, funny daughters. Impromptu dance parties and glitter are an everyday reality. Running and reading are my go-to stress relievers and I really want to like yoga someday.
Prevention

Five Tips for Picking Out Sunglasses

The sun can damage more than just your skin. Follow these tips to pick out the right sunglasses for you, and start protecting your eyes today.

Backpacker man looking at bright sun through polarized sunglasses enjoying mountain landscape. Eye & Vision Care human health concept image.
Home and Family

Modeling Healthy Stress Responses to Your Children 

If you routinely feel stressed out, the way you react and respond to stressors can either help or hurt the way your children process their own emotions.

Teen son talking to his dad
Fitness

Exercise and Your Gut: Move More for Improved Health 

While it’s long been known that healthy eating can improve gut health, not as much research has been focused on exercise but recent discoveries are promising.

Woman working out at home
Community

Filing Taxes: Resources Available for Michigan Filers with Low- to Moderate-Incomes 

Tax time can be stressful and confusing for many. For low- to moderate-income filers, help is available.

Young couple working on taxes together
Home and Family

When Kids Cut: Understanding Self-Harm 

Why do kids harm themselves? In many cases, it's a way to assert control during stressful circumstances. Find out signs to watch for and how to get help.

Mom comforting daughter
Mind

ADHD Diagnosis Provided Freedom, Answers for Michigan Woman  

As a child, Betsy Thompson didn't fit the mold for kids with ADHD. It was years later as an adult that she sought help and discovered she had the condition.

Betsy Thompson
Home and Family

Set Family Goals for 2021 

Does your family set goals you can work on together? Make 2021 the year you explore more, get healthier together and have new experiences!

Mom helping daughter water a plant
Mind

On Your Phone Too Much? Here’s How to Set Realistic Tech Limits  

If one of your health goals is to cut back on the amount of time you spend on your phone, having a concrete plan with achievable goals will help you succeed.

Couple looking at their phones in bed
Mind

Checking In On the Mental Health of Older Loved Ones  

Seniors staying safe by staying at home have lost normal social connections, increasing their risk for isolation and depression. Listen for warning signs.

Elderly man talking on the phone
Mind

What the Pandemic Taught Us: Finding the Positive in a Tumultuous Year 

This year has been tough, but there have been lessons to carry forward. As we look ahead to 2021, take a second to pause and reflect on the good from 2020.

Dad helping his little boy put a puzzle together
Prevention

4 Changes Women Should Make for Their Heart’s Sake

Read up on cardiologist Joni Summitt’s tips to help women reduce their risk for heart disease.

Female friends socializing
Home and Family

Help Kids Protect Themselves Against COVID-19 at School   

Kids heading back to school for face-to-face learning? Empower them to take steps to stop the spread of COVID-19.

Little girl going to school with a mask on
Food and Recipes

Blueberries for Breakfast: Recipe Roundup

It's August in Michigan and that means blueberries are ready to enjoy! We've got five yummy, blueberry-centric breakfast recipes to liven up your mornings.

Community

Aging with Attitude: Michigan Seniors Living with Vitality

People are living longer, healthier lives. These seniors say finding activities you're passionate about can help you live out your senior years with vigor.

Older man running
Prevention

Skin Cancer Survivor Wants Others to Learn from Her Mistakes

After skin cancer surgery, one of our team members is urging others to be safe in the sun.

Woman putting sunscreen in her hand
Mind

The Health Benefits of Close Friendships

Research points to a variety of ways friendships benefit our well-being. It might be time to give your bestie a call!

Friends taking a walk enjoying ice cream
Community

Hiking in Michigan: Where to Go and How to Start 

Hiking in Michigan? This comprehensive guide includes tips on what to pack, how much food and drink you’ll need and how to stay safe on the trail.

family hiking on trail in the woods
Home and Family

The Importance of Dads and Other Adults in Modeling Healthy Emotions for Boys

Trying to raise boys fully able to express their emotions in healthy ways? These tips can help.

Dad comforting his son
Home and Family

In Praise of #GirlDads and Empowering Father Figures

A salute to all the dads and father figures raising strong, confident girls.

Dad and daughter standup paddleboarding
Mind

The Bright Side: Add Some Positivity to Your Social Feed

Is your social scrolling bringing you down? Add some positivity to your feed with these fun and positive accounts to follow.

Woman looking at her phone smiling
Home and Family

Distance Learning Tips from Michigan Teachers

Trying to navigate working from home and teaching your kids at the same time? These veteran Michigan teachers have tips and resources.

Boy on a video chat with his class
Mind

Coping as Sumi’s Caregiver

KC Mehta, like many caregivers, faces isolation and loneliness because of the all-consuming nature of the work he does to care for his wife Sumi.

KC and Sumi in the 1970s
Mind

Sumi 2.0: Becoming Sumi’s Care Partner

Alzheimer’s disease has changed many aspects of Sumi Mehta’s personality. One constant, says husband KC, is her smile.

Sumit today
Mind

Sumi’s Smile: A Caregiving Love Story

Sumi Mehta was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease at the age of 59. Her husband KC, remembers it as “the saddest day of our lives.”

Sumi in 1974
Mind

How to Start a Gratitude Practice

Gratitude can help you view life with different eyes. Find out how to start your own practice.

Little girl holding flower
Prevention

Top 5 Myths About the Flu Vaccine

Winter is coming–don’t let one of these misconceptions stop you from getting a flu shot. It’s the best way to stay healthy all season long.

flu shot myths
Community

Inspiring Active Communities in Northern Michigan: Norte Expanding to Kalkaska

With support from Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan and other organizations, Norte is expanding its youth-focused programming to Kalkaska in northern Michigan.

Kids holding hands walking to school.
Prevention

Senior Falls: Why They’re Dangerous and How to Avoid Them

Falls are the number one cause of injuries and deaths from injury among older Americans. Find out how to reduce your risk.

Doctor examining an older patient's knee.
Community

Detroit Youth Choir Member Has “High Hopes” for America’s Got Talent Finale

DeAndre “Dre” Elliott has been performing with the Detroit Youth Choir since the 4th grade. Read about his experience performing on America’s Got Talent.

DeAndre singing with the Detroit Youth Choir.
Community

“Detroit Mom” Founder Candid About Breastfeeding Challenges

Elizabeth Lewis runs “Detroit Mom”, a website designed to support parents. She said pressure on moms makes them question their infant feeding choices.

Elizabeth holding Maryn
Community

Empowering Woman: Angela Moore Opens Up About Her Life’s Work

At her integrated health studio, The Body Principle, Angela Moore helps clients weave mental health, fitness and nutrition together for complete transformation.

Angela Moore leading a workout class
Food and Recipes

What’s Healthier: Fresh, Frozen, Canned or Dried Foods?

When shopping, is fresh always best? Discover the pros and cons of frozen, canned and dried fruits and vegetables.

Large selection of fruits and vegetables at a market
Prevention

How to Prevent Common Desk-Related Injuries

Sitting at a desk all day can negatively affect your back, wrists and eyes. Here are some tips on how to avoid common office injuries.

Female office worker stretching arms at her desk
Community

Michigan’s Best Summer Races

Lace up your running shoes and check out some of Michigan’s best summer races throughout the state.

Four Men Running On
Community

History-Making Athlete Has Sights Set on MI Summer Special Olympics

Kalamazoo-area athlete Julian Borst is gearing up for the Special Olympics Michigan State Summer Games, fueled by his history-making Boston Marathon debut.

Julian Borst running
Prevention

Why I Regret Tanning in My Teens and 20s

There is no safe way to tan. The darker skin tone that results from time in a tanning bed or in the sun is caused by cellular damage to the skin.

Woman in front of a facial tanning light
Prevention

Love the Skin You’re In

Adjusting to aging skin in midlife can be trying in a youth-focused society. Read up on accepting your skin at every age and when to see a dermatologist.

Two women laughing together
Food and Recipes

Making Sushi at the Downtown Market Grand Rapids

Learn how to make a spicy tuna roll with this recipe from Downtown Market Grand Rapids’ “Slow Your Roll” beginner sushi class.

finished sushi rolls
Food and Recipes

Mushroom Time: Your Michigan Morel Hunting Guide

With warmer temperatures, searching for the tasty fungi is a great way to get outdoors and take in a beautiful spring day.

Hunting for morels in Michigan
Community

How to Start a Backyard Compost Pile

Looking to reduce your food waste and improve your garden at the same time? Composting isn’t as hard as it may seem. Here’s how to get started.

Hands holding composted earth next to food scraps.
Community

Michigan Woman Donating Stem Cells to Man She Saved Years Ago

“Everybody has the potential to give selflessly to somebody else.” Read up on a Michigan woman donating stem cells to the same recipient she saved years ago.

Close up of nurse placing a swab into a vial.
Community

Spring Cleaning for a Healthier, Safer Home

Your house might look clean, but there are some under-the-radar spots you might be missing that you’ll want to clean up for a healthier, safer home.

Dad babywearing and helping a toddler with the dishes.
Food and Recipes

Recipe Roundup: St. Paddy’s Day Snack Ideas

St. Patrick’s Day is coming up and what better way to spend this holiday then with some fun snacks. Here are four creative snack recipes to try out.

st patricks day recipes
Prevention

Ever Experienced Sleep “Drunkenness”? It’s Not What You’d Expect

One in seven Americans is affected by sleep “drunkenness”. Find out what causes this condition and why you should get it checked out if you think you have it.

Stressed man trying to fall asleep
Community

Heart Attack Puts Life in Focus for Business Reporter

Learn about reporter Chad Livengood’s life after a heart attack at age 35, caused by a spontaneous tear to a coronary artery.

Chad Livengood
Community

Big Rapids’ Jim Crow Museum Fosters Important Conversations

Ferris State University’s Jim Crow Museum of Racist Memorabilia uses “objects of intolerance to teach tolerance and promote social justice.”

Students listening to Dr. Pilgrim.
Community

Rosalind’s Story: Cardiac Nurse Loses 140 Pounds to Protect Her Heart

February is American Heart Month. We’ve partnered with the American Heart Association to share stories of heart disease survivors and heart health ambassadors.

Rosalind Davis posing in front of a tree on the beach.
Community

Susie’s Story: Surviving a “Widowmaker” Heart Attack

February is American Heart Month. We’ve partnered with the American Heart Association to share stories of heart disease survivors and heart health ambassadors.

Ambulance at the entrance of an emergency room.
Community

Ashley’s Story: Facing Open Heart Surgery at 19

February is American Heart Month. We’ve partnered with the American Heart Association to share stories of heart disease survivors and heart health ambassadors.

Image of felt heart with bandage on it, red stethoscope on blue background.
Prevention

Michigan: It’s Time To #GoRedForWomen

See a statewide list of women’s heart health events in Michigan and ways to take control of your heart health with help from the American Heart Association.

Red clothing on hangers.
Mind

Cut the Clutter: Find the Organizational Style that Works for You

If de-cluttering and organizing isn’t exactly sparking joy for you, it’s possible you need to find your organizational spirit animal. An expert shows you how.

Image of a modern, organized kitchen.
Community

Celebrate Winter at these Michigan Festivals

Get out of the house and enjoy the cold at one of these winter festivals taking place around Michigan.

View from the Ferris Wheel at Tip-Up Town USA, Houghton Lake, Michigan
Prevention

Should You Try Going Dry this January?

For many, a trendy New Year’s resolution to make is abstaining from alcohol for an entire month, otherwise known as Dry January. Find out if you should try it.

Young women toasting with coffee cups.
Prevention

6 Surprising Ways to Beat Vitamin D Deficiency

It’s crucial to get enough vitamins and nutrients. But how do you know if you’re Vitamin D deficient? Learn warning signs and ways to up your Vitamin D intake.

Woman walking in park wtih dog in winter
Home and Family

How to Stay Safe in the Snow this Winter

With snow and cold comes an increased risk for snow-related accidents and injuries. Read up on how to protect yourself and your family this winter.

Kids making a snowman in the snow.
Home and Family

Michigan Parades and Festivals to Get You In the Holiday Spirit

Make merry and bright memories by checking out these fun Michigan parades and festivals.

Dog dressed up as Santa at an outdoor festival.
Community

Q&A with Grand Rapids Griffins’ Hockey Star Matt Puempel

Catch up with Matt Puempel, a second-season Grand Rapids Griffin on hockey, life and why he loves giving back to the communities he plays in.

Image of Matt Puempel on the ice.
Home and Family

Michigan December Bucket List: 10 Ideas for a Merry Month

With the holiday season in full swing there are many various events and fun activities taking place around Michigan.

Two women ice skating at a downtown rink.
Home and Family

Family Drama? How to Protect Your Emotional Health During the Holidays

Families can be a source of comfort, but also emotional pain. Learn how to navigate potential pitfalls before you gather for the holidays.

Angry sisters in front of the Christmas tree
Food and Recipes

Grateful Heart, Healthy Meal: Break Your Thanksgiving Overeating Habits this Year

Learn how to enjoy your Thanksgiving meal without feeling uncomfortably full this year.

Thanksgiving turkey on a rustic wooden table surrounded by vegetables.
Prevention

Missing Pieces: For Adoptees, Health History is Unclear

Adoptees often face a murky health history. Read about one woman’s experience as an adoptee and steps you can take to track your history.

Grandmother showing her granddaughter family pictures.
Home and Family

How Family Dinners Help Kids Avoid Drugs and Alcohol

Research shows sitting down and sharing a meal can help kids and teens resist the temptations of drugs and alcohol.

Image of a family eating a meal together.
Community

Michigan October Bucket List: 10 Fun Ways to Enjoy Autumn

Just because the leaves are changing and the weather is cooling down doesn’t mean the fun has to stop. October offers a plethora of fun activities and events.

A pumpkin patch
Fitness

Ride the Fall Season: 5 Michigan Biking Events to Get You in Gear

If you’re looking to take part in a unique fall biking event, look no further! These five rides and races have something for everyone in Michigan.

Mountain biker rides through fall leaves in a forest.
Mind

Depression Triggers at Different Ages

While depression doesn’t always have a direct cause, there are certain stressors that can trigger depression at different ages. Learn about risk factors.

Image of woman holding an umbrella reflected in a puddle.
Mind

How to Spot and Help Someone Going Through a Mental Health Crisis

Learn about the signs that could indicate a mental health crisis and how to help.

Man in suit comforting a male colleague.
Prevention

Understanding Ovarian Cancer Warning Signs and Risk

Ovarian cancer is the deadliest reproductive cancer for women. Learn about subtle warning signs to pay attention to, as well as factors that could up your risk.

Woman clutching her stomach
Community

Accessible Parks and Nature Trails to See in Michigan

One of the best things about Michigan’s parks and nature trails is that many are universally accessible. Check out some of our favorites.

Community

Grand Valley State University: Stay Healthy, Lakers

If you’re hoping to make your “Laker effect”, it’s important to stay healthy throughout your experience at Grand Valley State University. Here’s how.

image of star sculpture on GVSU's campus
Community

Michigan Technological University: Tips for a Healthy Semester

Michigan Tech is home to over 7,000 students. In the heart of the Keweenaw Peninsula, this school features a wide range of activities suited for all seasons.

Michigan tech football field in the fall.
Community

Healthy Campus: Michigan State University

Michigan State University offers a wide range of fun activities and ways to stay healthy on campus.

Community

Bees in the D: Increasing Urban Honeybee Hives

Non-profit organization Bees in the D has made it their mission to increase the population of honeybees in the region and their efforts are working. In two years, the group has introduced more than six million bees to southeast Michigan.

Brian Peterson-Roest of Bees in the D with Grace Derocha (both in beesuits) checking on a honeybee hive.
Home and Family

Facing the Empty Nest: Tips for a Healthy, Happy Transition

Feeling down about your child moving out? There are ways to cope while they’re still living with you and after they take those first steps toward independence.

Image of mom and teenage daughter
Home and Family

Rip Currents 101: Be Prepared to Avoid Danger

When people head to the beach to enjoy a sunny day off the last thing on their mind is rip currents, however these silent dangers can ruin lives.

A sign about rip currents
Prevention

Sunscreen Dispensers: Healthy Trend Spreading Through Michigan’s U.P.

An organization called Just Believe is working to spread sunscreen dispensers throughout U.P. communities, in memory of a loved one lost to skin cancer.

Image of a baby playing on the beach with sand toys.
Home and Family

Must-Visit Waterfalls in Michigan

With scenic views, rolling waters and untouched wildlife, Michigan waterfalls offer a serene getaway that will satisfy anyone’s nature needs.

Taquamenon Falls in summer
Mind

Bullet Journal Zen: Organize Your Life with Paper and Pen

Heard of bullet journaling? Find out how this low-tech organizational tool helped a Grand Rapids woman get it all together.

how to use a bullet journal
Community

Michigan August Bucket List: 10 Ideas to Squeeze the Most Out of Summer

Blueberries, beaches and baseball. These are just a few of our picks for an awesome August.

Image of wild blueberries in Houghton, Michigan.
Community

Island Living: For Mackinac Full-Timers, A Different Way of Life

Ever dreamed of living on Mackinac Island? One resident explains why she loves island living and what those considering a big move might want to consider.

Image of Mackinac Island taken from Fort Mackinac.
Fitness

New Fitness Trend: Roller Skiing

Roller skiing provides a unique total-body workout. Strengthening 90 percent of your muscles, this low-impact sport can be enjoyed by many.

Man roller skiing down a street.
Community

Across the Straits: The Iconic Mackinac Bridge

The Mighty Mac turns 60 in 2017. Find out what it took to cross the Straits of Mackinac before the bridge’s opening in 1957.

mackinac bridge
Community

Michigan July Bucket List: 10 Ways to Make this Month Sizzle

Get outside, eat fresh, and recharge your batteries with these ideas to make July a month to remember.

Image of a dune buggy at Silver Lake Sand Dunes
Community

ARTpath Brings Color and Positivity to the Lansing Community

ARTpath is a 3.5 mile stretch of the Lansing River Trail that features 10 thought-provoking art pieces made by various artists across Michigan.

Colorful artwork featured on the ARTpath in Lansing
Community

Urban Roots: Growing Community through Farming and Education

Urban Roots is a community farm and education center located in Grand Rapids. Learn more about their mission to empower access to fresh fruits and vegetables.

Image of prepared veggies.
Community

Go Back in Time at Northern Michigan’s Fishtown

A magical Michigan village located along the shoreline of Lake Michigan offers tourists a look back in time at Fishtown’s historical fishing community.

Fishtown pictured on a summer day with the Leland River's aqua blue waters gently rolling over the historical dam and mixing with the pristine waters of Lake Michigan
Food and Recipes

Easy Slow Cooker Recipes for New or Expectant Parents

Just because you are busy doesn’t mean you can’t have a delicious, healthy dinner. Slow cooker recipes are great for on-the-go individuals who don’t want to sacrifice taste.

garlic shrimp and spinach over quinoa
Community

Michigan June Bucket List: 10 Ideas to Welcome Summer

June might be the perfect month of the year in Michigan if you enjoy balmy temps and sunshine. Here are some ideas to make the most of it.

Aerial view of Shelby's Cherry Point Farm's lavender labyrinth.
Community

Training in Michigan Helped Desiree Linden Win Boston

Desiree Linden said training through part of a nasty Michigan winter helped her tackle brutal conditions on race day to win the 2018 Boston Marathon. “This is a great running state. People get running here,” she said.

Photo of Desiree Linden holding up the American flag after winning the 2018 Boston Marathon.
Prevention

Reach Old Age in Good Health with Tips from Michigan Seniors

These tips from these older Michigan residents will keep you in shape throughout your senior years.

Healthy Senior
Fitness

Tips for Mental Toughness on Race Day

Train your brain for better race performance.

Picture of a female runner with eyes closed and hands on top of her head.
Community

A Day in the Life: Are You as Fit as Your Mail Carrier?

In all kinds of weather, postal carriers need to be physically fit to perform their job duties. Find out how one Grand Rapids carrier does it.

Photo of a U.S. Postal Service mailbox.
Community

Michigan May Bucket List: 10 Ideas for a Marvelous Month

Make the most of May with these 10 ways to get outside and explore.

Photo of yellow tulips, shot from underneath the flowers looking up to a clear blue sky.
Community

Pay-to-Play Sports: How One Michigan District Ensures Access for All  

At Grand Rapids Public Schools, everyone can participate in athletics, regardless of their ability to pay. Find out how they’re empowering kids through sports.

Grand Rapids Public Schools track athletes at the starting line of a race.
Home and Family

Inclusion at Play: Grand Rapids Children’s Museum Helps All Families Feel Welcome

As the recipient of the Autism Alliance of Michigan’s Autism Seal of Approval, the Grand Rapids Children’s Museum strives to be a welcoming place for all.

Community

Michigan April Bucket List: 10 Ways to Refresh and Explore  

Make April amazing with these fun ideas to refresh your space, explore your state, and nourish yourself with healthy foods and good-for-you moves.

A white tropical flower
Fitness

Prepping for a Race? Why Cross-Training and Form are as Important as Running

If you want to be strong on race day, make sure you’re getting in some cross-training and working on your running form as you log those miles.

Man lifting weights in his living room
Community

Butterflies are Blooming at GR’s Meijer Gardens

Find out how the more than 7,000 tropical butterflies that call Frederik Meijer Gardens home in March and April make the journey to West Michigan.

Image of a butterfly on a wall.
Mind

The Link Between Laughter and Health: What the Research Says

Is laughter really the best medicine? Find out how it can help your health and where the science is still unclear.

Community

Worth the Trip: Muskegon Winter Sports Complex

This Michigan destination draws visitors from throughout the Midwest. Its luge track is one of only four in the U.S., plus there are winter activities for all.

Community

The Sweet Story of Michigan Maple Syrup

Springtime means maple syrup. Learn more about how Michigan ranks in production and how you can celebrate the sweet stuff in March and April.

Sap drips from a tree into a bucket

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