Author

Estelle Slootmaker

A working writer since 1992, Estelle Slootmaker currently is a book editor, solutions journalist, Issue Media Group series editor, and children's book author. She released her new children’s book, Places Where The Sun Don’t Shine in August 2025.

An unashamed tree-hugger, Estelle chairs The Tree Amigos, City of Wyoming Tree Commission. She and her hubby—artist and guitarist Eddie Killowatts—love dancing to new wave, Michigan's outdoors, going to book and record stores, growing and cooking healthy food, and hanging out with their terrible terriers, Bindipaws Bowie McCrykie and Skipper D. Doodog.

Estelle's Latest Articles

Downtown Utica’s Art Nook: “Super cool place making”

Art Nook connects folks to downtown businesses and showcases a colorful mural by artist Kevin Gano.

“When I grow up.” Inspiring kids to dream big about careers in health care

These collaborations show how growing interest in health care careers can begin early.

Generation E: Growing the next generation of entrepreneurs

The Generation E program for student entrepreneurs is a collaboration among the city of Monroe, its small businesses, and Monroe Public Schools.

Michigan Municipal League collaborates, educates, and advocates for the state’s communities

Michigan Municipal League shares innovative programs, fosters collaborations, and connects communities with resources.

Early childhood millage dollars prepare the littlest Michiganders for school success

In Kent County, millage funding supports 30 programs delivered by 16 local organizations.

Community mental health agency integrates care with onsite primary care and pharmacy

Summit Pointe CEO says, “Proximity doesn't always work, but co-location does.”

Matthew Verley drops off his son Lil' Matt at child care.
Access to affordable, reliable child care as vital for dads as moms

People often think of child care as a women's or a mother's issue. However, access to affordable, reliable, high quality child care equally benefits fathers. 

Sanilac County CMH CEO Wilbert Morris presents iPad to Sanilac County Sheriff Paul Rich
Meeting rural Michiganders’ mental health care needs

Michigan’s rural residents face different challenges when accessing mental health care than residents of urban areas. Transportation issues, loneliness, and limited group therapy options can compound their mental health needs. To address these challenges, community mental health (CMH) agencies like Sanilac County Community Mental Health innovate community-based solutions that meet their populations where they are at.   

Julie Molenda
SBAM Nurture Benefits program enhances compensation for child care providers

The Small Business Association of Michigan Nurture Benefits will expand access to health insurance, life insurance, and retirement savings for Michigan's child care providers.  

Lock Arms and Unite for Autism: Campaign commits to continued advocacy and support

AAOM’s current fundraising campaign, Lock Arms and Unite for Autism seeks to raise $31,000 to support its services for the one in 31 people diagnosed with autism in Michigan. 

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