FYI Family Magazine Dec2016/Jan 2017

Dec 2016/ Jan 2017

2017 PRESCHOOL GUIDE

Published by

Fun for Free!

Make String Art Better Phone Photos and MORE!

Kalamazoo Public Schools

are reaching higher! st 5 years la e th r e v o te ra n o  Rising graduati hool and high sc le d id m , ry ta n e m  Rising ele vement school student achie dents taking u st f o r e b m u n e th  More than doubleent courses in the last 8 years Advance Placem tuition for e g e ll o c e e fr : e is m ro  The Kalamazoo P idency & attendance requirements apply) KPS graduates (res been or e v a h ts n e d u st S P K  More than 4,200of The Kalamazoo Promise are beneficiaries 5 students 5 ,4 2 f o th w ro g t n e  K-12 enrollm last 11 years e th r e v o t) n e rc e p (24

For enrollment or more information please contact Kalamazoo Public Schools at

269.337.0161

itor

from the Ed

is years of h t 15 or so at is. x e th n l, e o o th h c nd n to pres ve to spe ing my so ” He’d ha d l. n o e o s h one of , c n a “s start e. I me s. In fact, to m id ff r k o r fo d e n rd th e o s hil was ha e around niff. rsity of C ears old to Preschoo eded to b h? Sniff. S ttle at 3 y the Unive s e li t n a ru o t s d e is n d o th a e ll m s em at a w ono care hat’ He just se an, an ec en in day day, so w se skills th e o m ry b k e th c r v , e e e w v H l e o o s n n k me to scho who had ere. You ing to Ja life going only child le ones th l, accord tt o n li a o r h o u c ls s o a r re s a speak, sit urs fo ing p But he w is hand to m attend t that occ h o n e e fr is s m y ra p a , lo w hare few modeve takea learn to s re than a h others? o the best motional it to e m w t d d a n n ly h e a e p l v e es l. H ecti e socia re life. e boss. H ly and eff preschoo cago, is th r his futu t to be th t year in e propriate fo g e rs t p fi a n ’t t a t n c a rt id o ra th te imp he d gle ame hom them to in ut so, so hen he c ns when him strug b w w , h o s y ld d tc a o a lt ry d r e w e a o v m ye e als rd to tart. And d not hav ns for a 3 ere were It was ha an early s ol, but th er kids an ugh lesso im o o h th T h o . c e s g h iv it re g in v p w a to r misbeh in a circle ere able him off to . bench” fo d rushed teful we w a e ra h h I g about all “t lt early start m n t fe a o a I ments formation with th n I truly k on it, in n e c h a h re b w it d s il w g y h s in a c all re d milie ake preLook There we rovide fa providing at can m wledge. p o th to n it s k d s m w e te e o ra it n d g m ly d full of on on pro unity com t. Not on happy an informati importan y in a comm o e e s k v rce. s li is u e o e e s id w at ible re ol Guid o prov s o ls n h a e c p s it is t grateful th re d u P b 7 n in our area, y our 201 is guide a That’s wh options in ’ll find th l u o o y o h w c s o e kn erful pre Editor milies. W the wond r more fa fo le b a ord school aff

M a r ie L e e

KPL_FYI_TFF_DEC.pdf

1

10/31/16

4:37 PM

14 TH ANNUAL C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

2

9

K

Call For Entries Films Due January 20, 2017

KPL.GOV/TEENFILMFEST

KALAMAZOO INSTITUTE OF ARTS

fyiswmichigan.com •

3•

brian lam

ren briggs

Who are these lovely children? See below.

Dec 2016 / Jan 2017

2017 PRESCHOOL GUIDE

Our recipe maven, Ren, gives us the ultimate comfort food recipe on page 9. Ren’s recipe even gets the kids involved in making dinner, too. An Allegan mom, Ren is a graduate of Grand Rapids Community College’s Secchia School of Culinary Arts, a former baker for Alpen Rose, Via Maria and deBoer Bakery, and our favorite Christmas cookie creator.

Our Family Man columnist is an astute observer of parental and fatherly behavior, especially people’s penchant to record kids’ recitals on their phones and devices rather than watch them perform on stage. A Kalamazoo native, Brian is a business owner who would never admit to missing the days when cameras used film.

Published by

Fun for Free!

Make String Art Better Phone Photos and MORE!

Publisher

encore publications, inc.

Editor

marie lee

anne lape

Melissa Lam

Graphic Designer alexis stubelt

Contributors

ren briggs, brian lam, melissa lam, anne lape, david miles, brian powers, emily townsend

Advertising Sales

tiffany andrus, celeste statler, krieg lee

Office Manager hope smith

Emily Townsend

Ironically, Anne’s hacks this month are about taking better photos with your phone (okay, but maybe not at recitals). Anne, who admits she is a fanatical phone photographer, offers us some great tips on page 10 for getting good shots. Anne, a teacher in Kalamazoo, is the mother of a high schooler.

David Miles

If you need a great project to keep little hands busy over winter break, Melissa has you covered. Check out the String Art project on page 14. Some nails, wood and thread and — ta da, you’ve got an afternoon of fun!

Melissa, who lives in Kalamazoo with her family, has spent her professional career working in early childhood education with a focus on arts, crafts and creativity.

At a very early age, David Miles got into trouble with a pencil. Walls, tables, the backs of chairs — nothing could avoid being drawn on. Years later he’s managed to channel his creative tendencies toward illustration. See more of his work at davidmiles.us.

It was Emily’s idea to turn our Playground Pick into a review of playgrounds and to enlist her little friend Olo and his mom to help out. We love the result, although we suspect she just wanted to get out of the office and go play. You can read more of her writing at soundandscrawl.com.

•

4 • Dec 2016 / Jan 2017

Distribution mark thompson

FYI is published 6 times a year by Encore Publications, Inc. Copyright 2016. All rights reserved. Editorial, circulation and advertising correspondence should be sent to Encore Publications, 117 W. Cedar St. Suite A, Kalamazoo, MI, 49007. Phone: 269-383-4433. General email correspondence to publisher@encorekalamazoo.com FYI is distributed free of charge at locations throughout Southwest Michigan; home delivery subscription rate is $18 per year. Advertising rates and specifications at fyiswmichigan.com or by request.

FYI does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors; articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect FYI’s opinions or those of the FYI staff.

To learn more about us visit fyiswmichigan.com

About the cover: Zeke Hoeksema, 3, and Penelope Neff, 4, are ready to become preschoolers. Photo

by Brian Powers, taken outside Greta Berman Arbetter Kazoo School in Kalamazoo.

Dec 2016/Jan 2017

In Every Issue 3

From the Editor

4

Our Contributors

6

Fun for Free

Family-friendly fun at no charge!

8

Playground Pick

9

Milham Park is rambling and fun to roam

Make This!

Mmmm. Layers of warm yumminess in a bread bowl!

10 Everyday Hacks

Take better photos with your phone

12

Is This Normal?

FEATURE

16

Kissing on the lips? Sleeping in the dog’s bed? You ask, experts answer

14 Creation Station

String together awesome art

2017 Preschool Guide It’s time to think about preschool for next fall — our comprehensive guide gives you the options and information you need!

PARENT TO PARENT 30 Family Man

Ac tivities

What are we missing when we are trying not to miss anything?

25 Family Events

The area’s best calendar of family-friendly fun!

fyiswmichigan.com •

5•

Fun For Free FYI

Hear Stories, Songs and More

It’s like sitting around a campfire without the campfire.

Award-winning storyteller, musician and teaching artist Karen Bonnici Czarnik will bring her stories and songs to the Kalamazoo Valley Museum Dec. 27.

Incorporating music and theater with physical animation and songs, Czarnik regales audiences with a unique collection of traditional and original works.

Accompanying herself on the autoharp, she creates an interactive experience for audiences that offers a little “edutainment,” too.

When: Noon, Dec. 27 Place: K alamazoo Valley Museum, 230 N. Rose St., Kalamazoo Ages: All ages More info: 269.373.7990; kalamazoomuseum.org

Enjoy Double Fun with Gemini

Sing along, clap along or just listen as Gemini, twin brother musicians who play more than a dozen instruments, brings their fun, rousing concert to the Kalamazoo Valley Museum Jan. 4 San and Laz Slomovits aim to make sure everyone is involved with the music making, and their show includes folk tales, handmotion tunes, rousing sing-alongs and music from around the world. Keep an ear out for Gemini’s original songs about the everyday experiences of childhood and growing up.

When: Noon, Jan. 4 Place: Kalamazoo Valley Museum, 230 N. Rose St., Kalamazoo Ages: All ages More info: 269.373.7990; kalamazoomuseum.org

•

6 • Dec 2016 / Jan 2017

Have a Village Christmas

If this doesn’t get you feeling the holiday spirit, then you are just a Scrooge.

Downtown Vicksburg offers a full day of holiday fun with everything from carolers and Mrs. Claus’ Cookie Kitchen to a nighttime parade and hot chocolate with Santa.

Make sure to hit the Children’s Elf Workshop at the Vicksburg Community Center where kids can write letters to Santa and enjoy a holiday story, hear music by Benjammin and see a magic show. Look for the “North Pole” sign in shop windows to find kids’ crafts and special treats.

When: 2–10 p.m. Dec. 3 Place: Downtown Vicksburg Ages: All ages More info: vicksburgdda.com/christmas-in-the-village

Browse the Kwanzaa Bazaar

Find shopping, vendors, food, music and activities during the Kwanzaa Bazaar hosted by the Black Arts & Cultural Center.

The event is part of the BACC’s Pre-Kwanzaa Celebration Weekend and promises to provide a little culture and education about the traditional Kwanzaa celebration as well as a chance to get unique, last-minute holiday gifts.

When: Noon—5 p.m. Dec. 17 Place: G irls Scouts Heart of Michigan, 601 W. Maple St., Kalamazoo Ages: All ages More info: 269.349.1035, blackartskalamazoo.org

fyiswmichigan.com •

7•

Emily Tow

Milham Park

nsend

Playground Pick FYI

Reviewed by Olo, age 4, and mom, Emily Sykora

M ilham Park opened in 1911. The first day it was open,

more than 5,000 people visited the park and its popularity has continued ever since.

The 49-acre park, carved by an oxbow in the Portage Creek and dotted with hundreds of shade trees, has a colorful history. It once had a zoo, a reptile house run by a 16-year-old herpetologist nicknamed “Jungle Larry” and was the site of a Depression-era squatter’s camp and a life-sized Lincoln Log cabin. Today joggers, family reunions, birders and anyone interested in playing outdoors share the space.

Milham Park is a favorite spot to explore for our playground experts, Emily Sykora and her 4-year-old son, Olo. Emily loves to bring Olo to this park after his morning preschool classes and to run around together until dinnertime.

The main playground, accessible from Kilgore Road, includes multiple slides, a suspension bridge and enough room for Emily and Olo to play a rousing game of tag.

Emily noted that all of the playground equipment looks up-to-date and refurbished.

“My favorite part is the monkey bars,” declared Olo. “What about the trails? Don’t you like riding your bike on the trails?” asked Emily.

“Oh yeah. My favorite part is riding my bike,” Olo decided.

Emily convinced Olo to migrate from the playground and picnic area closest to the parking lot on Lovers Lane, toward the WPA-era stone bridge crossing Portage Creek which leads to acres of walking trails. Just then, wind funnels of autumn leaves swirled up and around Olo and he chased the center of the whirling colors across a slightly flooded field, laughing uncontrollably.

“That’s really cool. He’s so happy,” said Emily.

With his shoes and socks soaked and the warm autumn sun beating down, Emily consented to let Olo go barefoot, roll up his pant legs and tiptoe ankle-deep across

Portage Creek to a small island. There he stacked rocks against a log and decorated his rock tower, choosing only the brightest of yellow leaves.

As Olo hunted for rocks and leaves, Emily said, “We love to come here in every season. It’s just so beautiful and there’s so many little places to explore.” She also said it’s a place where she and Olo can get out any frustrations by just running around.

The sun began to sink west and Emily started the oftenarduous process of transitioning a preschooler from play to dinner.

“I don’t want to go,” said Olo. “It’s OK,” said Emily, “we’ll be back soon.”

Where: 607 E. Kilgore Road Hours: 8 am–dusk Best ages: 3 years–adult Amenities:

• Main playground with infant swings

• Drinking fountain and public restrooms • 49 acres with walking trails to explore

• Picnic shelter with electricity and a seating capacity of 144 people, 10 of which are disability-accessible.

There is also a smaller shelter without electricity with a seating capacity of 30–40 people.

• Softball/teeball fields

• A smaller play area near the creek on the north side of the park — Emily Townsend

•

8 • Dec 2016 / Jan 2017

Make this! FYI

Family Dinner by

Ren Briggs

All for One

Keep dinner simple! This recipe lets the kiddos

pack their favorite meats and cheeses into a bread bowl and bake it up for a warm winter meal.

Ingredients •1 large, unsliced sourdough round (or boule) •1 /2 lb. honey-roasted deli turkey, sliced •1 /2 lb. smoked deli ham, sliced •1 /4 lb. salami, thinly sliced •6 strips thick-sliced bacon, cooked •6 thin slices sharp cheddar cheese Ren Briggs

•6 thin slices baby Swiss cheese •6 thin slices provolone cheese

How To: 1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

2. M ake a bread bowl: • Use a sharp knife, at a shallow angle, to cut around the top of the bread loaf about 1/2 inch from the top of the bread and remove. Put aside for use later.

• Pull out all the bread from the inside of the bread loaf in medium to large pieces until the loaf is nearly just a shell or bowl.

3. Layer the ingredients in the bread bowl. Begin by laying half of the sliced turkey flat in the bottom of the bread bowl, followed by three slices of provolone cheese, half of the sliced ham, three slices of Swiss cheese, half of the sliced salami and three slices of cheddar cheese.

4. Using the remaining meat and cheese to make a second layer in the same order.

5. Press down firmly on the ingredients.

6. Place the bread top on top of the cheese.

7. Bake for about 25-30 minutes or until center is hot.

8. Slice into wedges (like you would a pie) to make individual servings.

Hints: • Try filling your bread bowl with these variations: — slow roasted beef with peppers and onions or pulled barbecue pork — roasted vegetables drizzled with balsamic vinegar and layered with Asiago cheese • Use the bread chunks you removed in the beginning to make croutons for your soups or use as a side for spinach artichoke dip. Toss them with some olive oil or melted butter and bake at 350 degrees for 15 minutes or until browned.

fyiswmichigan.com •

9•

Everyday Hacks FYI

Up Your Phone Photo Game by

Anne Lape

‘Tis the season for lots of picture taking!

And despite the fact that I own a practically new digital camera, all of my photos are taken with and stored on my phone. Photos of my teen, my niece and nephew, my friends, holidays, trips, special events and candid shots of day-to-day life — all of these pictures have been taken with my phone.

Admittedly, my photo skills could be better. While phone cameras have certainly improved in the last few years, my photography skills haven’t upgraded much.

Thanks to my talented, professional photographer brother-in-law, and a little research, here are some hacks to improve our phone photography this year:

Clean the lens This is perhaps the most important step in taking great photos. If you are like me, your phone spends a great deal of time in your pocket or purse and neither of those are lint-free environments. And our fingers often skim across the camera lens as we hold, pick up and fumble with our phones.

A clean lens gives you clearer photos, which is what you are after, unless the misty, hazy, wrinkle-reducing look is your goal (no judgment). Use a lint-free cloth designed for glasses or camera lenses. If you have dust that is particularly stubborn, you can purchase compressed air for phone camera lenses online which works much in the same way as compressed air for your computer keyboard.

Get focused Pick a focal point for your photo, like your incredibly adorable child, and then use the camera’s focus function to make it focus on your subject. On my phone, I just tap the screen and it brings the main subject into clear focus and sets the light appropriately (so helpful, that phone!).

•

10 • Dec 2016 / Jan 2017

Hold still Hold your phone as still as possible. You aren’t going to get the kids and pets to stay still, but you do have control over the movement of your phone. If you need a makeshift tripod, prop your phone on a table, a pile of books or any steady surface nearby while holding it to get the clearest picture possible.

Say no to the zoom Zooming in on a subject can mess up the resolution of your image.

If you want a close-up, the resolution capabilities of your smartphone’s camera will work best if you do one of two things: either shoot your picture from farther out and crop it in a photo editing app or move in closer to your subject and take the picture close up.

Get a little space Don’t be afraid to leave space in your photo. Let the background tell part of the story. A great Christmas-time photo will include all of those wonderful details like the tree, wrapping paper, and snow outside that make Christmas, Christmas. Just be careful how you position people so they don’t have trees, lamps and other items growing out of their heads.

Have you been thinking about becoming a foster parent or adopting an older child?

Use natural light Using the flash function on your camera will often overexpose the picture, giving it a washed-out quality. Take the picture near bright windows or go outdoors to capture the best light. When you take the photo, the light source should be at your back and on the subject. If the resulting image is still too dark, try brightening your photo by using the editing function to bring up the light.

Super selfies You don’t need a selfie stick to make your selfies shine.

Use natural light. Hold your phone at a 45-degree angle above your face and use the self-timer function so you’re not trying to hold your phone at an odd angle and take a natural-looking picture.

The holidays are a great time to take lots of photos of the people you love most. Make sure you have adequate storage space on your phone or that you have a way to upload and store the photos you’ll be taking. Don’t hesitate to take lots of photos and then keep only the best ones, remembering that sometimes the “best ones” happen in the moments you’re least expecting.

Children in foster care are good kids in a bad situation. They deserve a fresh start in life so they can begin to thrive.

Bethany provides training, resources, and support services throughout your experience.

For more information and to attend a free, no-commitment info meeting, please contact Bethany today!

269.220.6095

bethany.org/FosterCareKzoo © 2016 Bethany Christian Services • BRH-150-FCAD-16440

fyiswmichigan.com •

11 •

Is this normal? FYI

You Ask, Experts Answer

Q:

When I say goodbye to my 7-year-old daughter, we kiss each other on the lips. We did this the other day in front of her school and a mom that was standing nearby told me she thought a dad kissing his daughter on the lips was inappropriate. Is it?

— Richland Dad

A:

Each family has different values and beliefs related to affection. If kissing on the lips is something that your daughter feels comfortable with and how you show affection, it is okay.

Views and comfort with different types of physical affection vary from person to person, family to family and culture to culture. The appropriateness of physical affection is not determined by an observer’s opinion, rather within the context of the relationship and family culture. If a kiss on the lips between a child and parent is a way you both enjoy showing affection when saying goodbye, it is appropriate.

There may come a day when your daughter no longer wishes to show her love for you in this way, and that is okay, too. Follow your daughter’s lead; she will let you know if and when she is ready for this goodbye ritual to change. Until then, cherish these sweet moments of your daughter’s childhood. And don’t let another parent’s selfimposed view take away from the innocence of a child’s love for his or her parent.

Q:

For the past two weeks, we’ve been finding our 6-year-old sleeping in our dog’s bed, which is in his room.

The dog has slept in his room since our son was an infant. We put our son to bed each night in his own bed, but when we get up in the morning, he’s curled up in the dog’s bed with the dog. Is this something we need to address or should we just leave it alone?

— Comstock Mom

•

12 • Dec 2016 / Jan 2017

A:

This problem sounds like one that may just be a stage your child is going through. It doesn’t appear like there is any reason to be alarmed by this dog-loving behavior but there are some things that can be explored to make sure.

A good place to start with this situation is having a discussion with your son about when he usually moves to the dog bed and why. If he thinks it is fun and he plans to sleep there for enjoyment, this is something that isn’t of immediate concern and he will most likely eventually grow out of the behavior. Natural consequences such as discomfort, dog smell, lack of room, etc., may nudge him toward discontinuing the behavior. However, if he is moving in the middle of the night because he is scared or because he is worried about the dog’s health or wellbeing, this may be a budding problem.

Also, if you notice that his sleeping in the dog’s bed is leading to negative sleep patterns and crabby behavior the next day or if you are not comfortable with him sleeping there, it may also be time to set up a new doggy-loving system. Offering alternatives, such as the dog sleeping on his bed, or having certain nights of the week assigned to having the choice of sleeping with the dog may encourage a change in the behavior.

If you decide this is a behavior you find negative, it may be time to move the dog’s bed out of his room; otherwise, in our dog-loving opinions, this is an age-appropriate behavior that may just need time to pass.

Questions answered by Nichole Holliday, MA, LLPC, LLMFT, Private Practice at Child & Family Psychological Services Portage, and Alyssa Noonan, LLMSW, Private Practice at Child & Family Psychological Services Kalamazoo.

WINTER CLASSES START IN JANUARY

Officially Approved by Santa

Unless noted, classes are 11 weeks and begin Saturday, January 14

Ages 3 - 4: My First Art Class (4 weeks)

With a parent, starts March 3

Ages 4 - K: Artistic Expression (6 weeks) Starts February 18

Meet the Masters All about Clay Grades 4 - 6 The Art of Drawing Clay on the Wheel Fun with Photography (4 weeks)

Grades 7-12 Grades 1&–Printing 3 3-D Modeling

Starts February 9 (8 weeks)

Drawing & Painting Photography

Register at kiarts.org/school or call 269/349-7775.

Hand-crafted cookies made with only the freshest ingredients…naturally.

Kalamazoo (west) 4426 West Main

Downtown Kalamazoo 527 Harrison

Portage 7083 S. Westnedge

(269) 343-8440 • mackenziesbakery.com

Clay on the Wheel The Art of the Story: Creating Visual Narratives Members enjoy tuition discounts.

Join today at kiarts.org

KALAMAZOO INSTITUTE OF ARTS

435 W. South St. / 269-349-7775 / kiarts.org / Free parking

Come together FAMILY FUN AT THE Y

In Need of a Mental Health Professional?

Contact PCC Independent mental health therapists guided by clinical knowledge, theory, research, and compassion.

Our Services: • School/Social Issues • Parenting • Stress • Anger • Relationships • Depression • Addictions • Marrige Counseling • Health concerns • Aging

Helping individuals of all ages, couples and families Committed to supporting wellness and community – come and see all that Sherman Lake YMCA has to offer!

Professional Clinicians and Consultants, INC. www.counselingpcc.com

Sherman Lake YMCA

6225 N. 39th Street • Augusta, MI 49012 (269) 731-3032 • www.shermanlakeymca.org

fyiswmichigan.com •

13 •

Creation station FYI

String Art by

Melissa Lam

Materials Needed • Corkboard or flat block of wood • Hammer • Nails (see Hints for size recommendations) • String or yarn • Pencil • Can of paint or wood stain (optional) • Rubber bands (optional)

How To • On the corkboard or block of wood, use a pencil to draw an outline of the object or shape you want to create.

• Hammer nails along the outline of your drawn shape.

The distance between the nails is up to you, depending on how much detail you want in your piece. Spacing is flexible, but about ½-inch between nails is good for a small board.

• Tie one end of the string on the nail you plan to start with.

C

reating a great work of art does not always have to involve painting or drawing.

In this edition of Creation Station, we tackle a project that requires a little construction. String art allows children to use their creativity in many different ways. In addition to choosing what object to create, they can have fun with the patterns used to fill the object with color.

While there are elements of this project suited better for older children and adults, there are ways for children of all ages to participate.

•

14 • Dec 2016 / Jan 2017

• Wrap the string from one nail to the nail across from it, wrapping the string around that nail. Continue wrapping the string around nails that sit across from each other, working your way around your pattern. (See pictures.)

• The amount of string you use to fill in the shape is up to you. Be creative!

• When you are done stringing, tie the string off to your last nail and cut off the tail.

• Display your work!

Hints •P ick a nail size that works for the amount of detail and the size of the picture. We used ½-inch #19s for the smaller pieces and ¾-inch nails for the larger one.

Organize Your Home!

Give your children the gift of organization

•S taining or painting your work can add new layers, but remember that the paint or stain will cover over your drawing. Instead of hammering nails into the board as the second step, use the hammer and a nail to tap little indentations around the shape. After you paint or stain your board, you’ll still be able to see and use the indentations as a guide for placing the nails.

•S mall children can use rubber bands instead of string for ease. Just be sure the nails are hammered in very solidly.

• Any type of string, from thread to yarn, is fine. Avoid using thick yarn because it can get bunched up.

• You can loop string over the nails more than one time and use different colors in your design.

•H ome improvement stores, like Home Depot and Lowe’s, will often have discounted spare wood for purchase and will cut it to size for you for free.

• With the holidays approaching, some fun — and not too overly complex — ideas for string art include creating stars, snowflakes, Christmas trees and snow-covered mountains.

fyiswmichigan.com •

15 •

2017 Preschool Guide for Greater Kalamazoo A

sk other parents on the playground, at work, or through social media, “What’s the best preschool option?” and you will get as many answers as people you ask.

Choosing a preschool for your child is an important decision. And many parents say it’s not an easy one. The greater Kalamazoo area has a myriad of preschool options from private to public schools, in-home facilities and childcare centers. It can be overwhelming researching all the options, costs and other variables.

So here’s some good news: FYI Family Magazine’s 2017 Preschool Guide provides a comprehensive list of licensed preschool options in the greater Kalamazoo area, divided by geographic location to make it easier for you to pinpoint what is available near your home or work. In addition, we provide information on great programs that can help make your preschool choices much easier!

Do you qualify for free or low-cost preschool?

Here’s how to find out: With one application, Kalamazoo County families can sign up for preschool and learn if they qualify for lowcost or no-cost preschool programs.

Kalamazoo County PreK, a collaborative program encompassing KRESA’s Head Start program and Great Start Readiness Program (GSRP), Kalamazoo County Ready 4s and all of the county’s school districts, has developed a starting place for families to begin their search for quality preschool.

According to Sarah Drumm, Great Start Collaborative coordinator, that starting place is dreambigstartsmall.org.

“We want families to find quality preschool that works for them, so we have one common application available online at dreambigstartsmall.org where families can start the process of enrolling in preschool. We also have the application in Spanish and paper copies are available.”

•

16 • Dec 2016 / Jan 2017

There are several advantages to filling out the application, says Drumm: • It allows parents to learn about preschool choices they might otherwise not know about. A number of private preschools participate in the PreK program in addition to public school districts.

• The application works to match families with programs and preschools based on income and other factors, including preferences such as location, and schedules including full-day, wrap-around and half-day options.

• It will determine whether families qualify for no-cost preschool programs such as Head Start and GSRP or for lower cost programs such as Kalamazoo County Ready 4s.

The program is designed to help all Kalamazoo County families find quality preschool, regardless of income, says Drumm.

“Every parent, really, should apply.

Sometimes people will think they don’t qualify but they do. For example, KC

Ready 4s is privately funded but focuses on making sure kids who otherwise couldn’t get a quality preschool experience do. They have a sliding scale — parents may pay some tuition each month, but it can be a big help. “ “And even if families don’t qualify, they are still able to access the participating preschool programs and they already have their applications into the schools they’d like to consider.”

START HERE: 1. Gather these forms: • Birth certificate or other proof of your child’s age • Proof you live in Kalamazoo County • Proof of income (to apply for lowcost or no-cost preschool) 2. Complete the application form at dreambigstartsmall.org 3. Submit application online or call 269.250.9333

.

liv et Rd . t.

O

Rd

A Preschool Primer

M

e

Riverview Rd.

in

Douglas Ave.

Nichols Rd.

8th St.

6th St.

Ra v

W H Ave.

NORTHEAST

N. Westnedge Ave.

NORTHWEST

3

-4

M

E. Main St. Nazareth Rd.

M-43

ve. an A

ichig

M W.

W N Ave.

Kilgore Rd. 1-94

1-94

Central Kalamazoo A Step Above Learning Center, 207 Hutchinson St., Kalamazoo, 269.388.4689 Arcadia Elementary PEEP, Kalamazoo Public Schools, 932 Boswell Lane, Kalamazoo, 269.337.0095 Bread and Roses Child Care Center, 915 Sunnock Ave., Kalamazoo, 269.383.9956

Calico Corners Preschool, 2323 Stadium Dr., Kalamazoo, 269.345.6901 Catholic Schools of Greater Kalamazoo, 1000 W. Kilgore, Kalamazoo, 269.381.2646, csgk.org, sgillig@ csgk.com St. Monica Catholic School and St. Augustine Cathedral School offer fully licensed preschool programs for three- and four-year-olds. Our preschool curriculum follows Michigan’s standards for early childhood education within nurturing Catholic elementary schools. See our ad on page 19.

Sprinkle Rd.

Milham Ave.

Portage Rd.

SOUTHWEST

E. Cork St.

S. Westnedge Ave.

iu

Stad

12th St.

m Dr.

CENTRAL KALAMAZOO

EAST

St. age Port

9th St.

8th St.

Parkview Ave.

Solon St.

Oakland Dr.

W KL Ave.

E. Michigan Ave. 96

Sprinkle Rd.

Drake Rd.

WEST

SOUTHEAST

Child Development Center – Cork, 110 W. Cork St., Kalamazoo, 269.349.2445 Child Development Center – Evergreen Academy, 2121 Hudson Ave., Kalamazoo, 269.488.0016 First Care, 212 S. Park St., Kalamazoo MI 49007, Kalamazoo, 269.381.6340

Friends of Jesus

Preschool

where love of learning begins

Friends of Jesus Preschool, 2122 Bronson Blvd., Kalamazoo, 269.382.2360, friendsofjesuspreschool.com, mjvstamper@aol.com Friends of Jesus Preschool is a Christian preschool devoted to helping all children develop a love of learning. We encourage social interaction skills along with play-based academics. Family participation is enthusiastically encouraged. See our ad on page 19.

As you begin your preschool search, here are some terms to know: Head Start is a federally funded pre-kindergarten program for 3- and 4-year-olds that offers free tuition for families at or below the federally determined poverty level or who are receiving public assistance. Classrooms are located in public schools and at community sites, and bus transportation is often available.

Great Start Readiness Program (GSRP) is a state-funded pre-kindergarten program for 4-year-olds that offers free tuition for low-income families with annual incomes up to 250% of the federal poverty level (approximately $60,000 for a family of four). Classrooms are located in public schools and private childcare centers.

Kalamazoo County Ready 4s is a privately funded program that offers tuition assistance to qualifying families so they can afford to enroll their 4-year-olds in high-quality prekindergarten programs. Tuition assistance is on a sliding scale based on family income. Participating preschools are located in childcare facilities, public and private schools and licensed home daycare programs.

Private preschools run the gamut from preschool and childcare centers to in-home daycare providers who implement a preschool curriculum for their 3- to 5-year-old charges.

Some preschools provide preschool only and others combine preschool with childcare. Private preschools charge tuition, although some may be participants in the Great Start Readiness Program or Kalamazoo County Ready 4s and offer tuition assistance to qualified families.

Gagie School, 615 Fairview Ave., Kalamazoo, 269.344.6541

fyiswmichigan.com •

17 •

Nature’s Way Preschool, 4442 Oakland Dr., Kalamazoo, 269.343.7342

The YMCA Early Learning Program, 1001 W. Maple St., Kalamazoo, 269.345.9622

Parkwood-Upjohn Elementary PEEP, Kalamazoo Public Schools, YWCA Children’s Center, 353 Gilden Woods Early Care & Pre- 2321 S. Park St., Kalamazoo, E. Michigan Ave., Kalamazoo, school, 4620 Arboretum Parkway, 269.337.0095 269.342.1519 Kalamazoo, 269.381.0118, gilden- Small World Christian Preschool, woods.com, kalamazoodirector@ 2400 Winchell Ave., Kalamazoo, East gildenwoods.com 269.344.4920 Child Development Center – AuOur K-Prep Program features engag- The Discovery Center, 4102 W. Michgusta, 600 W. Michigan Ave., Augusing hands-on learning so your child igan Ave., Kalamazoo, 269.372.0007 ta, 269.731.4411 can grow, play and learn at their own Child Development Center – Forest pace. On-site weekly music, fitness, Academy, 5196 Comstock Ave., KaSpanish and technology classes are lamazoo, 269.488.2323 included. Prepare them for kindergarten. Tour today! See our ad on The Montessori School – Kalamapage 23. zoo, 750 Howard St., Kalamazoo, 269.349.3248, themontessorischool. org, support@themontessorischool.org

For 40 years, we’ve served as a nonprofit, private education institution for children ages 3–12. Our highly trained, credentialed teachers nurture and cultivate each child’s curiosGreta Berman Arbetter Kazoo ity while providing a strong foundaSchool, 1401 Cherry St., Kalama- tion for academic success. See our ad zoo, 269.345.3239, kazooschool.org, on page 19. bishop@kazooschool.org

Community Learning Center, 1046 River St., Kalamazoo, 269.345.7243, www.communitylearningcntr.com, info@communitylearningcntr.com

The Community Learning Center is a nationally accredited facility providing quality, curriculum-based care for Kazoo’s Prekindergarten reflects the West Main KinderCare, 3939 W. children ages 6 weeks–5th grade. We Reggio Emilia philosophy, which Main St., Kalamazoo, 269.385.0115 strive to help your children develop understands that children are com- Winchell Elementary PEEP, Kalamasocially and academically as a gatepetent learners! Children are en- zoo Public Schools, 2316 Winchell way to their success. See our ad on couraged to follow their interests. Ave., Kalamazoo, 269.337.0095 page 21.

Teachers come alongside the students, bringing new experiences into Comstock North Head Start & GSRP, the classroom to inspire learning. See Comstock Public Schools, 3100 N. our ad on page 21.

26th St., Kalamazoo, 269.250.8550; Head Start: 269.250.9845 KRESA West Campus Head Start, Comstock STEM Head Start, Com4606 Croyden Ave., Kalamazoo, 269.250.9845 WMU Children’s Place Learning stock Public Schools, 175 Hunt St., Learning Village – Fairfax, 202 Fair- Center, 2210 Wilbur Ave., Kalama- Kalamazoo, 269.250.9845 fax Ave., Kalamazoo, 269. 341.6096

Learning Village – Lake St., 215 Lake St., Kalamazoo, 269.341.6096 Milwood Head Start, 3400 Lovers Lane, Kalamazoo, 269.250.9845 Mrs. Wolfe’s Preschool, 229 Inkster Ave., Kalamazoo, 269.491.5026

•

18 • Dec 2016 / Jan 2017

Edison Environmental Science Children’s Place is an NAEYC-accred- Academy PEEP, Kalamazoo Public ited center with a 4-star quality rating. Schools, 924 Russell St., Kalamazoo, Offering full and part-time schedules, 269.337.0095 we feature programs for toddlers, pre- Galesburg-Augusta Primary Schschool, prekindergarten and school- ool, Galesburg-Augusta Commuage children. Additional back-up care nity Schools, 315 W. Battle Creek St., Galesburg, 269.484.2040 is available. See our ad on page 21. zoo, 269.387.2277

Friends of Jesus

Preschool

where love of learning begins

Helping children develop a love of learning

✿ Small class sizes ✿ Follow the Creative Curriculum System for Preschool ✿ Activities include hands-on science, process art and crafts, math, music and movement, reading, language, sensory exploration and even cooking ✿ Field trips and on-site enrichment activities Classes available 3 year olds: T-Th 8:30-11:30 am

4 year olds: M-W-F 8:30-11:30 am

St. Monica Catholic School and St. Augustine Cathedral School offer fully licensed preschool programs for three and four year old children.

Parent participation encouraged!

5 year olds: M-F: 8:30-11:30 am Mixed Age Enrichment, 3-5: M-F 7:30 am-2 pm.

Our preschool curriculum follows Michigan’s standards for early childhood education within nurturing Catholic elementary schools.

600 W. Michigan Ave. 269.349.1945 • stakzoo.org

530 W. Kilgore Road 269.345.2444 • stmonicakzoo.org

2122 Bronson Blvd • Kalamazoo • 269-382-2360 friendsofjesuspreschool.com

The greatest gift you can give your child!

For 40 years, we have served as a non-profit, private education institution for children ages 3–12.

Our highly trained, credentialed teachers nurture and cultivate each child’s curiosity while providing a strong foundation for continued academic success.

Learn more about the Montessori philosophy and the gifts The Montessori School has to offer your child by contacting us today!

www.themontessorischool.org | (269) 349-3248 Kalamazoo, 750 Howard Street | Richland, 6274 N. 32nd Street

fyiswmichigan.com •

19 •

Greenwood Elementary PEEP, Kalamazoo Public Schools, 3501 Moreland Ave., Kalamazoo, 269.337.0095 Little Treasures Preschool at Haven Reformed Church, 5350 N. Sprinkle Road, Kalamazoo, 269.344.5871

Spring Valley Center for Exploration PEEP, Kalamazoo Public Schools, 3530 Mt. Olivet Road, Kalamazoo, 269.337.0095

Milwood Commons Preschool & Childcare, 2031 E. Cork St., Kalamazoo, 269.344.9731

Milwood Cooperative Preschool, The Montessori School – Richland 3919 Portage St., Kalamazoo, Campus, 6274 N. 32nd St., Richland, 269.349.3248 269.381.6209 Northeastern Elementary PEEP For 40 years, we’ve served as a non& Head Start, Kalamazoo Public profit, private education institution Schools, 2433 Gertrude St., Kalam- for children ages 3–12. Our highly azoo, 269.337.0095; Head Start: trained, credentialed teachers nurture and cultivate each child’s curios269.250.9845 ity while providing a strong foundaPre K International Child Care tion for academic success. See our ad Center, 11 Mills St., Kalamazoo, on page 19.

269.870.8412 St. Joseph Head Start, 936 Lake St., Vineyard Academy, 8640 Gull Road, Kalamazoo, 269.250.9845 Richland, 269.629.7253 Washington Writers Academy PEEP, Kalamazoo Public Schools, Northwest 1919 Portage St., Kalamazoo, 269.337.0095

Northeast Child Development Center – Borgess, 1521 Gull Road, Kalamazoo, 269.226.6714

AppleTree Early Care & Preschool, 909 Dix St., Otsego, 269.692.3675, Gull Lake Early Learning Center, appletreekids.cc, otsego_director@ 9500 E. 40th St., Hickory Corners, appletreekids.cc 269.488.5070 Our K-Prep Program features engagHome Again Early Childhood Education Center, 8681 Gull Road, Richland, 269.629.0181

ing hands-on learning so your child can grow, play and learn at their own pace. On-site weekly music, fitness, Parchment Cooperative Preschool, Spanish and technology classes are 225 Glendale Blvd., Parchment, included. Prepare them for kindergarten. Tour today! See our ad on 269.349.9194 page 23.

Richland Jack and Jill Cooperative Preschool, 8047 Church St., RichChristian Life Center Head Start, land, 269.629.9149 1225 W. Paterson, Kalamazoo, S.E.E.D.S. Preschool, 120 Roberson 269.250.9845 St., Kalamazoo, 269.388.3111

•

20 • Dec 2016 / Jan 2017

Indian Prairie Elementary PEEP, Kalamazoo Public Schools, 3546 Grand Prairie Road, Kalamazoo, 269.337.0095 JDI Preschool, 1515 N. Edwards St., Kalamazoo, 269.276.0671 Lincoln International Studies School PEEP/Head Start, Kalamazoo Public Schools, 912 N. Burdick St., Kalamazoo, 269.337.0095, Head Start: 269.250.9845 New Genesis Learning Center, 1225 W. Paterson St., Kalamazoo, 269.344.7135 Northglade Montessori Magnet School Children’s House, 1914 Cobb Ave., Kalamazoo, 269.337.0700 Parchment Northwood GSRP Program & Head Start, Northwood Elementary, 600 Edison St., Parchment, 269.488.1539; Head Start: 269.250.9845 Starting Point Preschool, 2345 N. 10th St., Kalamazoo, 269.375.4815 Westwood Christian Co-Op Preschool, 620 Northhampton Road, Kalamazoo, 269.381.8691 Woodward School for Technology & Research PEEP, Kalamazoo Public Schools, 606 Stuart St., Kalamazoo, 269.337.0095

West Heritage Christian Academy, 6312 Quail Run Dr., Kalamazoo, 269.372.1400 Kalamazoo Christian Schools, 3800 S. 12th St., Kalamazoo, 269.544.2332 Kiddie U Childcare & Preschool, 24466 Red Arrow Highway, Mattawan, 269.668.3300 The Looking Glass Child Care, 5527 Parkview Ave., Kalamazoo, 269.372.9766 TLC Licensed Childcare & Preschool, 10570 Stadium Dr., Kalamazoo, 269.372.0156

pre-school

Child care for WMU students, employees and the community

OPTIONS ON

CAMPUS

• • • • • •

NAEYC Accredited Flexible scheduling Hourly/weekly rates Culturally diverse Back-up care available Play-based and research guided curriculum • Ages 15 months to 12 years • An approved KC Ready 4s site

wmich.edu/childcare 2210 Wilbur Ave. | (269) 387-2277 Materials were developed under a grant awarded by the Michigan Department of Education

The Greta Berman Arbetter

K azoo School Creativity.

Curiosity.

Confidence.

• PK – 8th Grade • Kalamazoo’s only Reggio Emilia-inspired PK classroom • Strong sense of community • Small class sizes = more individual attention

Preparing each child for success in kindergarten, elementary school and beyond!

• Nurturing, child-centered approach

• Nationally accredited

• Indoor-outdoor learning experiences in Kleinstuck Nature Preserve

• Ages 6 weeks–5th grade

• Each child is known, cared for, and respected

• Half and full-day programs

kazooschool.org

269-345-3239

• Quality, curriculum-based care • Education using the Creative Curriculum

1046 River Street, Kalamazoo 269-345-7243 communitylearningcntr.com info@communitylearningcenter.com

fyiswmichigan.com •

21 •

Southwest Bullfrogs & Butterflies Christian Learning Center, 5902 S. 12th St., Kalamazoo, 269.488.2120 Child Development Center – Oakland, 6325 Oakland Dr., Portage, 269.324.3700 CHUM Co-Op Preschool, 7028 Oakland Dr., Portage, 269.251.2131

PCCN Preschool, 2731 W. Milham Ave., Portage, 269.323.7855 Schoolcraft Community Co-Op Preschool,169 N. Cedar St., Schoolcraft, 269.679.4062 Shamrock Montessori Center – Preschool, 7508 Oakland Dr., Portage, 269.324.4818 St. Catherine Preschool, 1150 W. Centre Ave., Portage, 269.327.5165 St. James Lutheran Preschool, 2381 Romence Road, Portage, 269.327.7706

Curious Kids Early Learning Center, Portage Public Schools, 1010 W. Milham Road, Portage, 269.323.6780, portageps.org/community/curiouskids, tkarmon@portageps.org At Curious Kids, families find a positive learning environment for children aged 6 weeks — school age. We are proud of our 4-star rating from Great Start to Quality. Open 6:30 am—6:30 pm Monday-Friday. See our ad on page 23.

Farmland Friends Daycare, 9867 2nd St., Mattawan, 269.668.5571 Great Explorations Preschool, 3355 Westcove Dr., Portage, 269.762.7115 JumpStart Childcare of Kalamazoo, 6712 Financial Parkway, Kalamazoo, 269.544.3000

St. Michael Lutheran Preschool, 7211 Oakland Dr., Portage, 269.327.0512, stmikesschool.org, gjohnson@mightymessengers.org

Steps and Stages, 741 W. Kilgore, Portage, 269.381.4155 Tutor Time Child Care Learning Center, 6500 Constitution Blvd., Portage, 269.324.4692

Southeast Adventures Learning Centers, 4295 Bishop Road, Portage, 269.323.3600

Little Miracles Christian Learning Center, 6726 Texas Dr., Kalamazoo, 269.353.2700

Adventurous Kids Childcare, 9773 S. Sprinkle Road, Portage, 269.324.1138

Little Steps Childcare and Preschool, 7890 S. 8th St., Kalamazoo, 269.544.1888

A Touch of Home Too, 400 Gladys St., Portage, 269.324.1969

•

22 • Dec 2016 / Jan 2017

Our K-Prep Program features engaging hands-on learning so your child can grow, play and learn at their own pace. On-site weekly music, fitness, Spanish and technology classes are included. Prepare them for kindergarten. Tour today! See our ad on page 23.

Green Meadow Elementary, Comstock Public Schools, 6171 East MN Ave., Kalamazoo, 269.250.8960

Christ is the heart of our program!

We serve ages 6 weeks to 12 years old. We offer traditional preschool classes led by certified teachers as well as full-day childcare for all ages.

See our ad on page 23.

Little Lambs Learning Center, 110 E. Clay, Schoolcraft, 269.679.2508

Nazarene Wee Care Center, 5625 Oakland Dr., Portage, 269.327.3100

Gilden Woods Early Care and Preschool – Portage, 1518 E. Centre Ave., Portage, 269.359.1115, gildenwoods.com, portagedirector@gildenwoods.com

Climax-Scotts Elementary, ClimaxScotts Community Schools, 11250 East QR Ave., Scotts, 269.746.2404

Hearts & Hands Christian Preschool, Vicksburg United Methodist Church, 217 S. Main St., Vicksburg, 269.649-2343 ext. 106, vicksburgumc.org/heart-hands-preschool, heartandhands@vicksburgumc.org We offer three half-day programs.

Morning classes have a parent co-op option and the afternoon class participates with KC Ready 4s and GSRP funding. Call or email for information or to set up a visit! See our ad on page 23.

Kalamazoo Country Day School, 4221 E. Milham Ave., Portage, 269.329.0116

AppleTree & Gilden Woods

EARLY CARE AND PRESCHOOL

Heart & Hands Christian Preschool 217 S. Main St, Vicksburg We offer three half-day programs: • T/TH 3s Class 9-11:30am • M/W/F 4s Class 9-12pm • M-F 4s Class 12:45-3:45pm

Our morning classes have a parent co-op option and our afternoon class participates with both KC Ready 4s and GSRP funding.

Call 269-649-2343 ext 106 or email heartandhands@vicksburgumc.org to set up a visit.

Visit our website at http://vicksburgumc.org/heart-hands-preschool.htm

K-Prep Inspiring Lifelong Learners

Inspiring Lifelong Learners

Now Enrolling Preschool Kalamazoo • Otsego • Portage www.gildenwoods.com

St. Michael Lutheran School Christ for Kids Childcare Center 7211 Oakland Drive  Portage, MI 49024 St. Michael Lutheran Church LCMS

 Preschool – 8th Grade Class sizes allow for more individual attention  Programs are open to all  Tuition Assistance is available for those who qualify  Proven academic excellence  Convenient wrap-around childcare including infants and toddlers

www.stmikeschool.org School (269) 327-0512 Christ for Kids (269) 327-4889 Church Office (269) 327-7832

Education with Christ at the Heart fyiswmichigan.com •

23 •

BULLDOG BEGINNINGS PRESCHOOL A unique preschool experience for 4-year-olds that offers · A focus on school readiness · Fun, play-based format · FREE to qualified families

Apply today!

Applications available at Vicksburg elementary schools, Vicksburg Public Library, or the VCS Administration Building

For more information

call 321-1022

Kids Crossing Learning Center, 7520 E. U Ave., Vicksburg, 269.649.2392 Lakeland Creative Beginnings, 10422 Sprinkle Road, Vicksburg, 269.649.1703 Little Tykes Learning Center, 1422 E. Centre Ave., Portage, 269.324.1286 Loy Norrix Child Care Center, 606 E. Kilgore Road, Kalamazoo, 269.337.0264 Otis Montessori Academy, 810 E. Centre Ave., Portage, 269.327.8277 Portage Head Start, 325 E. Centre Ave., Portage, 269.250.9845 Pathfinder Children’s House, 8740 S. Westnedge Ave., Portage, 269.327.6762

BULLDOG BEGINNINGS

PRESCHOOL VICKSBURG COMMUNITY SCHOOLS

Vicksburg Bulldog Beginnings Preschool, 301 S. Kalamazoo Ave., Vicksburg, 269.321.1022, vicksburgcommunityschools.org.

Vicksburg Community Schools has a rich history providing our youngest bulldogs with a strong foundation for school readiness. Four-year-old preschool classrooms are conveniently located at all three elementary schools. Call 321-1022 for information.

See our ad on page 24.

Vicksburg Tobey Head Start, 8551 E. Long Lake Dr., Scotts, 269.250.9845 This guide is researched and compiled by FYI Family Magazine staff. Enhanced listing information provided by those entities. Every reasonable effort to ensure the accuracy of the information contained herein, FYI Family Magazine assumes no responsibility for errors or omissions. Information contained here is subject to change without notice.

P.S. If your preschool is not included in our listing, but you believe it should be, email us at editor@fyiswmichigan.com

•

24 • Dec 2016 / Jan 2017

WEEKLY

ONGOING

WHERE IS?

Thru Dec 28, A Christmas Carol, Dickens’ holiday classic, 28 performances, see website for times, New Vic Theatre, 134 E Vine St, 381-3328, thenewvictheatre.org, all ages, $25

Air Zoo — 6151 Portage Rd, 382-6555, airzoo.org

Thru Jan 5, Orion Nights, learn to find stars within the constellations, 3 pm Tues & Thurs, 2 pm Sat, Kalamazoo Valley Museum Planetarium, all ages, $3

Addresses, phone numbers & websites of venues frequently appearing in the calendar:

Binder Park Zoo — 7400 Division Dr, Battle Creek, 979-1351, binderparkzoo.org Comstock Township Library — 6130 King Highway, 3450136, comstocklibrary.org Kalamazoo County Expo Center — 2900 Lake St, 383-8778, kalcounty.com/parks/expo Kalamazoo Institute of Arts — 314 S Park St, 349-7775, kiarts.com Kalamazoo Nature Center — 7000 N Westnedge Ave, 381-1574, naturecenter.org KalamazooValley Museum — 230 N Rose St, 373-7990, kalamazoomuseum.org KPL-Alma Powell — Kalamazoo Public Library-Alma Powell, 1000 W Paterson Ave, 553-7960, kpl.gov KPL-Central — Kalamazoo Public Library-Central, 315 S Rose St, 342-9827, kpl.gov KPL-Eastwood — Kalamazoo Public Library-Eastwood, 1112 Gayle Ave, 553-7810, kpl.gov KPL-Oshtemo — Kalamazoo Public Library-Oshtemo, 7265 W Main St, 553-7980, kpl.gov KPL-Washington Square — Kalamazoo Public LibraryWashington Square, 1244 Portage Rd, 553-7970, kpl.gov Parchment Library — Parchment Community Library, 401 S. Riverview Drive, 343-7747, parchmentlibrary.org Portage Library — Portage District Library, 300 Library Lane, 329-4544, portagelibrary.info Richland Library — Richland Community Library, 8951 Park St, 629-9085, richlandlibrary.org Vicksburg Library – Vicksburg District Library, 215 S Michigan Ave, 649-1648, vicksburglibrary.org,

Thru Jan 6, Season of Light, explore historical, religious & cultural customs of the holiday season, 11 am Mon–Fri, 1 pm Sat, Kalamazoo Valley Museum Planetarium, all ages, $3 Thru Jan 6, Mystery of the Christmas Star, discover a scientific explanation for the star the Wise Men followed, 3 pm Sun, Mon, Wed, Fri & Sat, Kalamazoo Valley Museum Planetarium, all ages, $3 Thru Jan 8, Sustainable Shelter: Dwelling within the Forces of Nature, investigate how homes use & discard energy, water & natural resources, museum hours, Kalamazoo Valley Museum, all ages, FREE Thru Jan 16, Let’s Dance, learn about dance bands, dance halls & clothing in Kalamazoo from 1920–1980, museum hours, Kalamazoo Valley Museum, all ages, FREE Thru April 30, The Golden Age of Sports Cars 1949–1967, sports cars of the 1940s–1960s, museum hours, Gilmore Car Museum, 6865 Hickory Rd, Hickory Corners, 671-5089, gilmorecarmuseum.org, all ages, $13 adults, $10 ages 7–17, 6 & under free Dec. 2–4 & 9–11, A Christmas Story: The Musical, 1940s setting about Ralphie, his family & his Christmas dream, 7:30 pm Fri & Sat, 2 pm Sun, Civic Auditorium, 329 S Park St, 3431313, kazoocivic.com, all ages, $15–$25

Dec 2–18, Million Dollar Quartet, Farmers Alley Theatre presents the Broadway musical about recording sessions with Johnny Cash, Carl Perkins, Jerry Lee Lewis & Elvis Presley, 7:30 pm Thurs., 8 pm Fri & Sat, 2 pm Sun, Little Theatre, WMU, 3432727, farmersalleytheatre.com, ages 10 & up, $32–$37 Dec 16–23, ZooLights, see the zoo decorated for the holidays, 5–8 pm, Binder Park Zoo, all ages, outdoors, $5 non-members, under 2 free Dec 26–Jan 6, Challenger Experience, experience a simulated space flight, 1:45 pm Mon– Fri, Kalamazoo Valley Museum, all ages, under 16 accompanied by adult, $3 Dec 26–Jan 6, Spacepark 360, travel through an amusement park spanning the Solar System, 2 pm Mon–Fri, Kalamazoo Valley Museum, all ages, $3 Dec 26–Jan 6, Did an Asteroid Really Kill the Dinosaurs?, explore the cosmic evidence that points to the end of dinosaurs, 1 pm Mon–Fri, Kalamazoo Valley Museum Planetarium, all ages, $3 Dec 26–Jan 6, Magic of the Otherworld, journey to a magical place accompanied by harp music, 4 pm Mon–Fri, Kalamazoo Valley Museum Planetarium, all ages, $3 Dec 28–30 & Jan 4–6, Discovery Programs, different programs & activities each day, 11 am, Kalamazoo Nature Center, all ages, regular admission Jan 21–June 4, And Still We Rise: Race, Culture & Visual Conversations, works that draw on the tradition of storytelling thru quilts, museum hours, Kalamazoo Valley Museum, all ages, FREE

Events listed are those available at presstime. Please check local websites for other events posted since publication.

Mondays Playtime at the Point, indoor playtime for toddlers, 9:15–11:30 am, The Point, 2595 N 10th St, thepointkalamazoo.org, ages 0–5 with caregiver, FREE Tuesdays Tot Time (Dec only), songs, fingerplays & stories, 9:30 am, Schoolcraft Library, 330 N Centre St, Schoolcraft, 6795959, schoolcraftlibrary.org, ages 18–36 mo, FREE Preschool Storytime (Dec only), story & craft, 1 pm, Richland Library, ages 3–5, FREE Wednesdays Playtime at the Point, indoor playtime for toddlers, 9:15–11:30 am, The Point, 2595 N 10th St, thepointkalamazoo.org, ages 0–5 with caregiver, FREE Animal Encounters, story, coloring & a live animal, 10 am, Kalamazoo Nature Center, ages 0–5, regular admission plus $2/child Toddler Talk, toddlers play & adults share with a parent educator, 10:15 am, KPL-Oshtemo, ages 1–3, FREE Baby Talk, talk infant care with Carolyn Call, RN, 1:30–3:30 pm, KPL-Oshtemo, birth–12 mo, FREE Thursdays Preschool Story Hour (Dec only), stories, songs, fingerplays & a craft, 10 am, Schoolcraft Library, 330 N Centre St, Schoolcraft, 679-5959, schoolcraftlibrary.org, ages 3–5, FREE Family Storytime, stories, songs & activities, 10:30 am, KPL-Oshtemo, ages 0–5, FREE Fridays Preschool Storytime (Dec only), story & craft, 10:15 am, Richland Library, ages 3–5, FREE Family Storytime, stories, songs & activities, 10:30 am, KPL-Central, ages 0–6, FREE

fyiswmichigan.com •

25 •

DECEMBER Thursday, December 1 Time for Twos, interactive stories, songs & movement, 10 am, Portage Library, age 2, FREE Family Style Storytime, stories, songs & fingerplays, 10:15 am, Parchment Library, ages 0–3, FREE Storytime: 3–5 Year Olds, stories, songs & a craft, 10:30 am, Comstock Library, ages 3–5, FREE Run Through the Lights, a festive 2.4-mile run/walk through the downtown holiday lights, 6–9 pm, Bronson Park, gazellesports.com/wp/run-through-thelights/, all ages, $15 with shirt, free without shirt for ages 12 & under; $30 with shirt, $15 without shirt for ages 13 & up Friday, December 2 KIA Holiday Sale, purchase art created by art school students & faculty, 4–8 pm, Kalamazoo Institute of Arts, all ages, free admission Art Hop, art @ locations around Kalamazoo, 5–8 pm, kalamazooarts.org, all ages, FREE

Kalamazoo Mandolin & Guitar Orchestra, 6 pm, Kalamazoo Valley Museum, all ages, FREE Saturday, December 3 KIA Holiday Sale, purchase art created by art school students & faculty, 9 am–3 pm, Kalamazoo Institute of Arts, all ages, free admission Christmas @ Wings Arts & Crafts Show, 9 am–4 pm, Wings Event Center, 3600 Vanrick Dr, 345-1125, wingseventcenter.com, all ages, FREE Lowe’s Build & Grow, make a Christmas ornament (registration required), 10 am, Kalamazoo Lowe’s, 5125 W Main St, 345-2110; Portage Lowe’s, 5108 S Westnedge Ave, 2760215; lowesbuildandgrow. com, ages 5 & up with adult, FREE LEGO at the Library, build, race & imagine, 10:30 am, KPLOshtemo, all ages, FREE Sensory Showtime, Moana, welcoming environment for guests with special needs, 10:30 am, Celebration! Cinema, 6600 Ring Rd, Portage, 3247469, celebrationcinema.com, all ages, regular admission

The Printed Page for Ideas that Stick A lot of people make resolutions in January.

They want to get more out of life and reach for goals they find important, goals that would make a difference in their lives.

Printers think about resolutions all year long.

Although the word might mean something a little different to us, we ultimately want the same things—to improve the lives of our clients with products that make a difference to them.

Sometimes making a difference takes a high level of personal resolution and technical know-how.

That’s our commitment, and that’s what we find important, year-round.

What goals will you work on this year, and how will you reach those goals? We’re here to help, with the resolution and the know-how to make a difference.

Creature Feature: Toads, see animals up close & ask questions, 11 am, Kalamazoo Nature Center, all ages, regular admission Candy Cane Hunt, candy canes, arts, crafts & Santa, noon–2 pm, Homer Stryker Field, 251 Mills St, kzooparks.org, all ages, FREE First Saturday @ KPL, stories, activities & door prizes, 2–3:30 pm, KPL-Central, all ages, FREE Vicksburg Night Time Holiday Parade, 7–9 pm, downtown Vicksburg, 649-1648, facebook.com/events/ 1055688894546566/, all ages, FREE Christmas with Angel Blue, the soprano soloist performs in the KSO’s Sounds of the Season concert, 8 pm, Miller Auditorium, WMU, 349-7759, kalamazoosymphony.com, ages 4 & up, $12–$60 Sunday, December 4 Christmas @ Wings Arts & Crafts Show, 10 am–4 pm, Wings Event Center, 3600 Vanrick Dr, 345-1125, wingseventcenter.com, all ages, FREE Recycled Gifts, make some recycled gifts, 2 pm, Kalamazoo Nature Center, all ages, regular admission Mrs. Claus Tea, enjoy high tea with Mrs. Claus, a program & guided tour, 3–5 pm, W.K. Kellogg Manor House, 3700 Gull Lake Dr, Hickory Corners, 6712400, conference.kbs.mus.edu, ages 3 & up, $16 children, $32 adults BachFest Christmas, Kalamazoo Bach Festival Chorus concert with sing-along of carols, 4 pm, Stetson Chapel, Kalamazoo College, 337-7407, kalamazoobachfestival.org, all ages, $5–$29, under 12 free Eastside Holiday Concert, Kalamazoo Children’s Chorus concert, 4 pm, St. Mary’s Church, 939 Charlotte Ave, 547-7183, kalamazoochildrenschorus.org, all ages, call for ticket prices Monday, December 5

1116 W Centre Avenue 323-9333 PortagePrinting.com

☎

Baby & Toddler Storytime, flannel stories, fingerplays & movement, 9:30 am, Portage Library, ages 0–23 mo, FREE Babies & Toddlers Storytime, 10:30 am, Vicksburg Library, ages 0–3, FREE Baby & Toddler Storytime, flannel stories, fingerplays &

•

26 • Dec 2016 / Jan 2017

movement, 10:30 am, Portage Library, ages 0–23 mo, FREE Storytime: 2–3 Year Olds, stories, songs & a craft, 10:30 am, Comstock Library, ages 2–3, FREE Preschool Storytime, 11:15 am, Vicksburg Library, ages 3–5, FREE Anime Club, watch anime & check out manga, 4:30–6 pm, Parchment Library, FREE Tuesday, December 6 Family Storytime, stories, rhymes, music & a mystery letter, 10 am, Portage Library, ages 2–5, FREE Story Corner, a story about the natural world, 10 am, Kalamazoo Nature Center, ages 0–5, regular admission Storytime: 1–2 Year Olds, stories, songs & a craft, 10:30 am, Comstock Library, ages 1–2, FREE Teen LEGO Club, build with LEGOs, 4 pm, Portage Library, grades 6–12, FREE Tech Tuesdays, experiment with cutting edge technology tools: MakeyMakey, 4:30 pm, KPL-Central, grades 5–12, FREE Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker, performed with the WMU University Symphony Orchestra, 7 pm, Miller Auditorium, WMU, 387-2300, millerauditorium.com, ages 4 & up, $36–$153 Wednesday, December 7 I’m a Big Kid Now: Independent Storytime, stories, rhymes, music & a mystery letter, 10 am, Portage Library, ages 3–5, FREE Storytime: 3–5 Year Olds, stories, songs & a craft, 10:30 am, Comstock Library, ages 3–5, FREE I Heart Recess (Teen), crafts, games, music & WiiU, 2:45 pm, Vicksburg Library, teens, FREE Holiday Chocolate & Parchment Wassailing, enjoy cocoa & cookies & ride the Holly Trolley, 6–8 pm, Parchment Library, all ages, FREE Thursday, December 8 Time for Twos, interactive stories, songs & movement, 10 am, Portage Library, age 2, FREE

Scholastic Book Fairs Warehouse Sale, large sale of discounted books, 11 am–7 pm, Kalamazoo County Expo Center North, 800-843-0112, scholastic.com/bookfairs/warehouse, all ages, FREE Friday, December 9 Scholastic Book Fairs Warehouse Sale, large sale of discounted books, 9 am–7 pm, Kalamazoo County Expo Center North, 800-843-0112, scholastic.com/bookfairs/warehouse, all ages, FREE Family Fun! Jump, Turn, Dance & Learn, music, props & creative movement, 10 am, Portage Library, all ages, FREE K-9 Fanciers Dog Show, UKC multi-breed dog show, 3–11 pm, Kalamazoo County Expo Center South, 989-860-9845, all ages, FREE Friday Teen Night, art-making, museum-strolling & pizza, 6–8 pm, Kalamazoo Institute of Arts, teens, FREE Swim with Santa, arts & crafts, snacks, pool activities & Santa, 6:30–8 pm, YMCA of Greater Kalamazoo, 1001 Maple St, 345-9622, kzooymca.org, all ages, $15 per family, members free Cirque Musica Holiday Spectacular, acrobats & aerialists perform with the KSO, 7:30 pm, Wings Event Center, 3600 Vanrick Dr, 345-1125, wingseventcenter.com, all ages, $25–$65 Saturday, December 10 K-9 Fanciers Dog Show, UKC multi-breed dog show, 8 am–5 pm, Kalamazoo County Expo Center South, 989-860-9845, all ages, FREE Wolf Cub: Super Science Saturday, Wolf Cubs work on earning badges (registration required), 9 am–2 pm, Air Zoo, $20 scouts, $12 adults Scholastic Book Fairs Warehouse Sale, large sale of discounted books, 9 am–3 pm, Kalamazoo County Expo Center North, 800-843-0112, scholastic.com/bookfairs/warehouse, all ages, FREE Christmas Expo & Craft Show, 9 am–4 pm, Kalamazoo County Expo Center, 903-5820, all ages, FREE

Buy Local Art & Gift Fair, 9 am–4 pm, Kalamazoo Nature Center, all ages, FREE Art Detectives, a look at the underwater works of Sayaka Ganz made from repurposed household objects, 11 am–12:30 pm, Kalamazoo Institute of Arts, ages 4–8 with adult, FREE Of Christmas Past, experience Christmas in the 1800s, noon–5 pm, Historic Charlton Park, 2545 S Charlton Park Rd, Hastings, 945-3775, charltonpark.org, all ages, $6 adults, $4 ages 4–12 Holiday Open House, Kalamazoo Symphony Orchestra’s Jazz Trio, Mrs. Claus, crafts, games & live reindeer, 1–3 pm, Comstock Library, all ages, FREE Dungeons & Dragons (Teens), 1:30–4:30 pm, Vicksburg Library, grades 6–12, FREE Sunday, December 11 K-9 Fanciers Dog Show, UKC multi-breed dog show, 8 am–4 pm, Kalamazoo County Expo Center South, 989-860-9845, all ages, FREE Of Christmas Past, experience Christmas in the 1800s, noon–5 pm, Historic Charlton Park, 2545 S Charlton Park Rd, Hastings, 945-3775, charltonpark.org, all ages, $6 adults, $4 ages 4–12

Tuesday, December 13 Family Storytime, stories, rhymes, music & a mystery letter, 10 am, Portage Library, ages 2–5, FREE Preschool Explorers: Winter Birds, explore with interactive nature stations, 10–11:30 am, Kalamazoo Nature Center, ages 0–5, regular admission plus $4/ child Teen & Tween Craft, make Sharpie-dyed coasters (registration required), 6 pm, Parchment Library, teens & tweens, FREE Teen Mom Night, stories & crafts for babies; photo book for moms, 6 pm, KPL-Alma Powell, ages 0–5, teens & adults, FREE Wednesday, December 14 I’m a Big Kid Now: Independent Storytime, stories, rhymes, music & a mystery letter, 10 am, Portage Library, ages 3–5, FREE Storytime Christmas Cookie Party, stories, songs & cookie decorating (registration required), 10:15 am, Parchment Library, all ages, FREE Evening Storytime, wear your pajamas & bring a bedtime

friend, 7 pm, Portage Library, all ages, FREE Thursday, December 15 Time for Two’s, interactive stories, songs & movement, 10 am, Portage Library, age 2, FREE Friday, December 16 Preschool Play & Learn, games, puzzles, manipulatives & dramatic play, 10–11:30 am, Portage Library, ages 3–5, FREE LEGO Club, build & imagine (registration required), 4–5:30 pm, Comstock Library, all ages, FREE Swim with Santa, arts & crafts, snacks, pool activities & Santa, 6:30–8 pm, YMCA Portage, 2900 W Centre Ave, Portage, 3249622, kzooymca.org, all ages, $15 per family, members free Saturday, December 17 Holiday Kalamazoo Indoor Flea & Antique Market, 8 am–3 pm, Kalamazoo County Expo Center, 383-8761, all ages, FREE Preschool Explorers: Winter Birds, explore with interactive nature stations, 10–11:30 am, Kalamazoo Nature Center, ages 0–5, regular admission plus $4/ child

Holidays at the Homestead, discover the origins of holiday traditions from the 1800s, 1–4 pm, DeLano Homestead, 555 West E Ave, Kalamazoo, 3811574, naturecenter.org, all ages, FREE Kalamazoo Children’s Chorus Holiday Concert, 3 pm, Chenery Auditorium, 714 S Westnedge Ave, 547-7183, kalamazoochildrenschorus.org, all ages, $15 Monday, December 12 Baby & Toddler Storytime, flannel stories, fingerplays & movement, 9:30 am, Portage Library, ages 0–23 mo, FREE Babies & Toddlers Storytime, 10:30 am, Vicksburg Library, ages 0–3, FREE Baby & Toddler Storytime, flannel stories, fingerplays & movement, 10:30 am, Portage Library, ages 0–23 mo, FREE Preschool Storytime, 11:15 am, Vicksburg Library, ages 3–5, FREE

EW

PRICE

$5 N

AL

S*

Storytime: 3–5 Year Olds, stories, songs & a craft, 10:30 am, Comstock Library, ages 3–5, FREE

L TICKE

T

Mozart’s Magnificent Voyage Sunday, Feb. 19, 2017 | 3pm | Chenery Auditorium Daniel Brier, Conductor Come early, activities begin at 2pm!

TICKETS:

269.387.2300 or KalamazooSymphony.com fyiswmichigan.com •

27 •

Kalamazoo Reptile & Exotic Pet Expo, buy, sell or trade reptiles, amphibians & small mammals, 10 am–3 pm, Kalamazoo County Expo Center Room A, 779-9851, all ages, $5 adults, $2 children, under 6 free LEGO at the Library, build, race & imagine, 10:30 am, KPL-Central, all ages, FREE Christmas Party, story, crafts & a visit with Santa, 11 am, Galesburg Library, 188 E Michigan Ave, 665-7839, facebook.com/ galesburg.charleston.library/ events, all ages, FREE Kwanzaa Bazaar, music, art, culture, food & vendors, noon–5 pm, Girls Scouts Heart of Michigan, 601 W Maple St, Kalamazoo, 349-1035, blackartskalamazoo.org, all ages, FREE Sunday, December 18 The Night Before Christmas, Kalamazoo Symphony Orchestra’s Family Discovery Concert, 3 pm, Chenery Auditorium, 714 S Westnedge Ave, 349-7759, kalamazoosymphony.com, ages 4 & up, $5 Brass Celebration of Christmas, WMU brass ensembles perform, 8 pm, Dalton Center

Recital Hall, WMU, 387-2300, millerauditorium.com, ages 4 & up, $15 adult, $12 senior, $5 student Monday, December 19 J-Pop Club, enjoy the latest from Japanese culture, 4:30 pm, KPL-Central, grades 6–12, FREE Tuesday, December 20 Family Fun! Just Move Storytime, move, dance & stretch with books & music, 10 am, Portage Library, all ages, FREE Story Corner, a story about the natural world, 10 am, Kalamazoo Nature Center, ages 0–5, regular admission Teen Frosting Metropolis, build a city filled with sugary architecture (registration required), 6:30 pm, Portage Library, grades 6–12, FREE Thursday, December 22 The Polar Express, view the movie, eat popcorn & wear your pajamas, 6–8 pm, Portage Library, all ages, FREE Tuesday, December 27 Karen Czarnik, storyteller, musician & teaching artist, noon,

Kalamazoo Valley Museum, all ages, FREE Teen Game Club, video games, comics & snacks, 4–5:30 pm, Portage Library, grades 6–12, FREE Thursday, December 29 Benjammin, sing, dance & play instruments, noon, Kalamazoo Valley Museum, all ages, FREE Saturday, December 31 Sensory Showtime, Sing, welcoming environment for guests with special needs, 10:30 am, Celebration! Cinema, 6600 Ring Rd, Portage, 324-7469, celebrationcinema.com, all ages, regular admission Creature Feature: Box Turtle, see animals up close & ask questions, 11 am, Kalamazoo Nature Center, all ages, regular admission New Year’s Fest, performing arts, fireworks & food, 5:30 pm– 1:30 am, Bronson Park, newyearsfest.com, all ages, $5 JANUARY Monday, January 2 Ivory Williams, African & African-American storytelling, noon, Kalamazoo Valley Museum, all ages, FREE Wednesday, January 4

Music Instruction for All Ages & Abilities

Our mission is your musical growth and enjoyment!

Member

• Study & learn in a positive & supportive atmosphere with professional, enthusiastic, experienced, university-trained teaching artists including Kalamazoo Symphony Orchestra Artists-in-Residence • Private instruction on strings, woodwinds, brass, piano, guitar, percussion, voice, theory & composition • Crescendo Fiddlers • Chamber Ensembles • Workshops & Masterclasses • Community Voices ensemble for teens & adults with mental & physical challenges • Orff Studio classes for ages 5 & up • Music Together® classes for infants, toddlers, & preschoolers Epic Center, Suite 12, 359 S. Kalamazoo Mall information@crescendoacademy.com www.crescendoacademy.com 269/345-6664

•

28 • Dec 2016 / Jan 2017

Gemini, twin brother musicians entertain with over a dozen instruments, noon, Kalamazoo Valley Museum, all ages, FREE I Heart Recess (Teen), crafts, games, music & the WiiU, 2:45 pm, Vicksburg Library, teens, FREE Friday, January 6 Gwendolyn Lewis, storytelling by the family literacy advocate, noon, Kalamazoo Valley Museum, all ages, FREE Art Hop, art @ locations around Kalamazoo, 5–8 pm, kalamazooarts.org, all ages, FREE Saturday, January 7 Daisy Girl Scout: Super Science Saturday, Daisy Scouts work on earning the Clover Petal badge (registration required), 9–11:30 am, Air Zoo, $17 scouts, $12 adults LEGO at the Library, build, race & imagine, 10:30 am, KPLOshtemo, all ages, FREE

First Saturday @ KPL, KSO’s Burdick-Thorne String Quartet & Kalamazoo Kids in Tune (registration required), 2–3:30 pm, KPL-Central, all ages, FREE Friday, January 13 Friday Teen Night, art-making, museum-strolling & pizza, 6–8 pm, Kalamazoo Institute of Arts, teens, FREE Saturday, January 14 Art Detectives, an art-related story, look at the galleries & create art, 11 am– noon, Kalamazoo Institute of Arts, ages 4–8, FREE Tuesday, January 17 Complexions Contemporary Ballet, ballet company featured on television’s So You Think You Can Dance performs Innervisions, set to the music of Stevie Wonder, 7:30 pm, Miller Auditorium, WMU, 387-2300, millerauditorium.com, ages 4 & up, $25–$45 Saturday, January 21 Boy Scout: Aviation Merit Badge Day, explore the history & science behind flight, completing badge requirements (registration required), 9 am– 3:30 pm, Air Zoo, $25 scouts, $12 adults Winter Expo & Craft Show, 9 am–4 pm, Kalamazoo County Expo Center South, 903-5820, all ages, FREE Kalamazoo Reptile & Exotic Pet Expo, 10 am–3 pm, Kalamazoo County Expo Center Room A, 779-9851, all ages, $5 adults, $2 children, under 6 free LEGO at the Library, build, race & imagine, 10:30 am, KPL-Central, all ages, FREE Downtown Chili Cook Off, 11 am–2 pm, stores & restaurants in downtown Kalamazoo, kalamazoorestaurantweek.com, all ages, FREE Friday, January 27 WMUsic Showcase Spectacular, WMU ensembles perform, 8 pm, Miller Auditorium, WMU, 387-2300, millerauditorium. com, ages 4 & up, $15 adult, $12 senior, $5 student Events may change without notice. FYI Family Magazine makes all reasonable effort to ensure the accuracy of the events listed here, but makes no warranty for the accuracy, reliability or completeness of the events information and is not responsible for any errors or omissions or for results obtained from the use of the information.

Family Man (continued from page 30)

phone acts as some sort of infrared sensor that allows them to be seen.

At my daughter’s school recitals, I’m surrounded by a sea of screens being held up and everyone is watching their child on them. Sometimes it feels like I’m forced to watch their children through their screens as well, particularly when the tall guy with the extra large iPad sits in front of me.

I understand the need to capture memories, but as a dad I want to make sure that my daughter remembers seeing my face in the crowd when she’s singing at her recital and not the top of my head behind a screen. I also get that some of that footage is taken for spouses or other relatives who couldn’t be there, but I have a hard time believing that’s the case with 90 percent of the phones in the room being held high.

The sheer logistics of even getting around to watching all that footage

is mind-boggling, too. I’ve calculated the amount of time it would take a parent to watch every moment of footage they’ve shot of their children, factoring in five seconds per photo to view every photo they’ve taken.

It turns out that the amount of time it would take to view the “captured memories” of the average 7-year-old is eight years. And that assumes no sleeping.

As a parent, I’m trying to find that balance between capturing a few great moments and just enjoying the moment for what it is. I can film or photograph my daughter’s recital and look at it later, but it won’t give me the same feeling as just soaking it all in with my own eyes.

And, who am I kidding? I’m not going to watch the footage later. There’s never been a time when I’ve said to my wife, “Hey, honey, remember Sienna’s Valentine’s Day recital from

kindergarten? The one where they all mumbled through “All You Need Is Love,” and it would have been impossible to recognize the song except that the teachers were singing?

The one where you could kind of see her in the second row with her hand in her mouth, but only when the iPad in front of us would sway to the left?

Yeah, let’s watch that again.”

Maybe it’s just a dad thing. For all I know, my mom might have spent hours looking at the photos she took of us. Maybe my wife does watch the kindergarten rendition of “All You Need Is Love.” (Or maybe it was Led Zeppelin’s “Whole Lotta Love,” kind of hard to tell.) Maybe that helps preserve those memories longer. And you’ve got to hold on to those memories because kids grow up fast.

At least I think they do; I still haven’t upgraded my phone.

LISTEN TO THE BEST CLASSICAL MUSIC ON AIR ONLINE

WMUK

102.1

WMUK IS NPR FROM WMU

LIKE WHAT YOU HEAR fyiswmichigan.com •

29 •

Family Man FYI

Oh, Those Kodak iPhone moments…

Brian Lam

David Miles Illustration

by

M y brothers and I still laugh about

an endearing (in retrospect) habit that our mom had while we were growing up. Many times, when we were completely immersed in a fun activity, whether it be laughing, playing or just kidding it up, she would insist on capturing the moment by taking a picture.

Not that unusual of a habit, but the problem was that this involved us boys stopping said activity and waiting while she prepped the camera.

(This was many years before the latest iPhone iOS upgrade.) This entailed loading film that was designed for dif•

30 • Dec 2016 / Jan 2017

ferent light sources. Assuming the film was loaded correctly, it then required three to five minutes of spinning that little dial on the corner of the camera until the film “caught” and lined up for a picture. The preparation of the camera was accompanied by eight to nine minutes of her insisting it would “just be a second.” Finally, after we were properly agitated and officially disengaged from the activity we had been involved in, she would to ask us to smile.

The irony is that I have not seen any of those pictures since, I don’t know, my wedding? And that may have been

the first time they were ever viewed.

There’s something amusing about the fact that we remember the act of the photography more than what the photography actually captured.

Times have changed and now phone cameras just start shooting the second you take them out of your pocket. But while photography and videography are so much simpler now, it feels like the act of shooting is more invasive than ever.

These days, I see parents chasing their kids around with iPhones as if their children are invisible and the (continued on page 29)

fyiswmichigan.com •

31 •

Come see our brand new, customer-focused facility.

• • • • •

New Showroom New Customer Lounge New Child Play Area Eco-Friendly Upgrades Fast, Free Wi-Fi

• • • • •

New Service Drive More Service Bays New Parts/Accessories Area State-of-the-Art Car Wash Snacks and Refreshments

All models with optional EyeSight.

Subaru. An investment you can rely on.

Subaru. The Best Resale Value of all brands for 2016 according to Kelly Blue Book. The Top Mainstream Brand for resale value for 2016 according to ALG. All models with EyeSight earn a 2016 IIHS Top Safety Pick Award. And the Most Trusted Brand for 2016 according to Kelly Blue Book.

5622 W Main St. Kalamazoo, MI 49009 www.maplehillsubaru.com 269/342-6600

•

32 • Dec 2016 / Jan 2017