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April 2021
n e h W r e b m e Rem
Monsignor Francis O’Brien founded Barbour Hall Academy in 1902. The school began as a private boarding school for boys’ ages 6-10. “The purpose of Barbour Hall is to complement the home training by giving the youngster a kind of formal education that will develop mind, body and spirit,” according to the 1902 Barbour Hall 1902 brochure. The school was operated under the direction of the Sisters of Saint Joseph, who came to this area in 1889 to manage Father Frank O’Brien’s Borgess Hospital. The Sisters originally lived at Borgess before eventually moving to a new building on the former Humphrey family farm acreage at Gull and Nazareth Roads. On this property, they immediately opened a girl’s school, Nazareth Academy, and just four years later, plans for a boys’ school were approved. Father O’Brien’s childhood friend and Detroit attorney, Levi L. Barbour, offered financial assistance for the construction of the boys’ building, which was dedicated in memory of Barbour’s mother, hence the name. Barbour Hall Academy, school for boys, opened its doors on October 24, 1902. At that time, there were 3 Sisters and 15 students and the tuition for the nine-month scholastic
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Barbour Hall Academy (Barbour Hall Junior Military School)
year was $275. Although many of the teachers were Sisters and the school had a Catholic heritage, students of all faiths were accepted. However, students were expected to understand and portray the words and actions attributed to Christians. All students were required to attend mass on Fridays. Small class sizes, dedicated faculty and a diversified curriculum provided boys the opportunity to develop their minds to its fullest potential. The subjects being taught were reading, English, spelling, handwriting, arithmetic, social studies, science, speech, art, music, religion, physical education and other electives In 1941, during WWII, a modified military program was incorporated into the daily routine and the name of the school became Barbour Hall Junior Military School. Aspects of the military program included: wearing a uniform, establishing habits of responsibility, mutual respect, selfdiscipline and teamwork. As the reputation for the Barbour Hall Junior Military School spread, it went from a boarding school for ages 6-10 with 3 Sisters and 15 students to a private school for grades 1-8 with 17 Sisters and laymen and 186 students at its peak.
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A day school option added to this increase – day students could receive a quality, well-rounded, private school education and return home at the end of the school day. Rick Shields, former day student from 1948-1956, had nothing but praise for his time at the school. “I would go back in a heartbeat! Those were the days,” he lamented. A local resident, on the Vanished Kalamazoo website, fondly recalls riding the city bus with Barbour Hall boys. “I often rode the Gull Rd. bus to connect downtown on my way to WMU with a bus load of Barbour Hall Boys…what a bunch of rabble rousers…until we pulled up in front of Barbour Hall…suddenly, they exited the bus into the arms of the waiting Nuns…perfect angels. It was truly a miracle!” In 1969, Barbour Hall Academy closed the boarding portion of the school, citing increased operational expenses, extensive remodeling projects for the boarding facilities and difficulty in obtaining the necessary personnel to operate the school on a twenty-four basis. At the time of the boarding closure, its 66 years in existence made it the oldest boarding school in Michigan. Physical fitness and teamwork were an important part of the school’s ex-
perience and their sports teams comA peted against local schools in football, basketball, baseball and track. With no shortage of extracurricular activities, families and friends were invited to attend: music recitals, an annual play, the Veterans’ Day Program, Christmas Program, and one of the most popular events, the annual Mothers’ Day Parade and Program. This event was one of the highlights of the year with representatives from the U.S. Marine Corps presenting awards to the senior cadets. The Barbour Hall Band, named the Muldoon-Hickey Band, after the original founders, performed at many of these events and was a well-known treasure in this area. The band even welcomed President William H. Taft to Nazareth in 1911. After 77 years of academic excellence and dedication to their motto “Today’s boy…is tomorrow’s man,” Barbour Hall was closed in 1979. Many Barbour Hall students have gone on to distinguish themselves as community & business leaders. Information for this article was gathered from Barbour Hall pamphlets. The picture is from Rick Shields’ extensive postcard collection. Jackie Merriam
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April 2021
GOOD NEWS
Creating Relaxation Space in Your Garden
Now it’s time to add your own personal joy into the space. What brings joy to the space will vary from garden to garden and even from season to season, but it should be a personal choice and something that helps draw you into the space. Consider…
Seating
In order to enjoy your meditation space, you will need a place to sit and relax within it. This may be a comfortable bench, a cozy chaise lounge, a soothing hammock or any other type of seating. A chair-sized boulder can be a natural alternative, or you may opt for a more whimsical swing to add a dash of fun to your personal space.
Sights
You’ll want to include sights to see. A bird feeder or bird bath can invite beautiful feathered friends to share your space, or you might prefer a lovely piece of garden art, a gazing ball, plants in your favorite colors or even unique mulch or paving stones in a therapeutic pattern. Gardening can be a relaxing, therapeutic hobby as you nurture seedlings, encourage growth and bring your harvest to fruition. But if you just want to take a moment to breathe, reflect and center yourself, you don’t always have to get out the garden clogs, sharpen your hand tools and get dirt under your fingernails. Creating a peaceful relaxation space in your garden is easy, and can turn any garden into your own private sanctuary.
The Need for Peace
As our lives get ever busier with hectic schedules and cramped appointments, it may seem impossible to have any time for thoughtful reflection or meditation. Furthermore, smaller living spaces can make it seem equally impossible to have any space for solitary peace. Without the ability to relax, we’re faced with skyrocketing stress in our lives, along with a host of different health problems such as tension headaches, high blood pressure, depression, obesity
April is considered National Humor Month, which began in 1976 by author, humorist, and founder or the
and more. More and more studies, however, are demonstrating that time spent in nature is beneficial for reducing stress and tension, and there’s no better place to easily enjoy nature than in your own garden.
Your Peaceful Purpose
Before creating your relaxation space, you need to plan what you want to use it for in order to ensure you have enough room and all the right touches for your peaceful retreat. Meditation can mean something different to everyone – you might prefer a place for quiet, contemplative prayer, or you could be interested in an outdoor space for yoga practice. For some people, a restful space for coloring or painting is their ideal meditation spot, while others may want a natural niche for reading or journaling. Creating or listening to music may be part of your meditation practice, or even a cozy spot for an outdoor nap. Whatever means peace and relaxation to you, it can be incorporated into your garden.
Carmel Institute of Humor, Larry Wilde. I think April is the perfect choice to celebrate humor with April 1st being April Fools’ Day, a day which has sanctioned frivolity and amusement for hundreds of years. Wilde’s aim for this holiday is to heighten public awareness of humor’s health benefits. Laughter has been shown to reduce stress and pain, relax muscles, boost morale, strengthen the immune system, increase blood flow, and enrich the quality of life overall. There is no drug on the market that can do all of this! Here are a few of Wilde’s commandments for lighthearted living: • No mater what happens be a happy person. If you’re not having
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Eliminating Distractions
Once you know how you will use a meditation space in your garden, it is essential to eliminate other distractions and interruptions from that space. Unwanted noises, glaring streetlights, unsavory sights and even unpleasant smells can disrupt your relaxation, but it is easy to plan your gardening to eliminate them. For example, a green wall or trellis can be used to block an unsightly view, and the plants on it will help muffle noises. You could also consider a small fountain for the soothing tinkle of running water to block traffic or neighborhood noises. Climbing, clinging vines can be used to cover structures with greenery to increase the natural feel of the space. Opt for arbors or pergolas that can help create comfortable shade and define the space without completely blocking sunlight and consider fragrant flowers nearby if unwanted aromas are invading your garden. Adding Joy to Your Garden Space
fun, Fake it! • Start the Day by reading something funny. Skip the stress of listening to the news. • If you meet someone who hasn’t got a smile, give them yours. • Laugh at your dumb mistakes before others have a chance to. • Laugh with your spouse and your marriage will improve with age. • Laugh with your kids and they’ll never stop loving you. Laughter is the best medicine and you get immediate results. Try a few of Wilde’s commandments to get you started on your humor journey today!
Sounds
Pleasant sounds can help add a focal point to your meditation space, allowing you to focus. A wind chime, waterfall fountain or even a way to bring your favorite music outdoors can be a wonderful addition to a peaceful meditation space.
Water
Flowing or splashing water provides natural white noise, and the sparkles of the water are ideal for creating soothing reflections. Consider different aquatic options, such as a small stream or brook, a weeping rock, a fountain or even a reflecting pool. Above all, remember that there are no strict rules for creating your personal relaxation space. Whatever brings you peace and joy can be part of your design, and it can change as your tastes and preferences change. Terrie Schwartz Wedel’s Nursery, Florist & Garden Center
Photo Courtesy of Bridget Fox
Jackie Merriam
Graphic Designer: Lauren Ellis Editor and Publisher: Jackie Merriam (269) 217-0977 - goodnews.jackie@gmail.com Like us on Facebook! This publication does not specifically endorse advertisers or their products or services. No part of this publication may be reprinted or otherwise reproduced without the written permission from the publisher.
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April 2021
GOOD NEWS
Captain Mo’s Market Specialty Grocery Store
GULL LAK E
Monica Yesh, Owner of Captain Mo’s Market, is proud to be part of the Gull Lake community, providing a variety of popular items for the locals and those out enjoying the beautiful lake area. They offer a large selection of groceries, candy, soft drinks, wine, liquor, craft & domestic beer, lottery/ Keno, DNR licenses, bait, Gull Lake logo apparel, Mooville Creamery ice cream, Dippin’ Dots, hot coffee and so much more! Captain Mo’s caters to the local residents, year round, adding seasonal items such as hot soup, cocoa, gloves, hats, hand warmers and ice melt during the winter and sunglasses, visors, sunscreen and aloe vera, etc. in the summertime. Opening the market hasn’t been without challenges for Monica since she took over the building April 1, 2020. The obvious challenge was opening a business during the beginning of a pandemic. The doors to Captain Mo’s were opened on May 14th, 2020, only to close three days later when the back wall collapsed,
pushing mud throughout the store. This set back didn’t deter Monica and she was ready to re-open on June 18th – just in time for the summer rush! In case you’re curious about the market’s name, Captain Mo’s is not only in reference to a boat captain because of its lake location, but it also refers to the owner Monica (Mo’s) 31 year law enforcement career, moving through the ranks of sergeant and lieutenant, before earning the title of Captain Monica Yesh – thus, Captain Mo’s. Monica retired in November 2018 and began working full time in traffic safety for the Transportation Improvement Association in Troy. Last year she began part time, which she continues to do. However, something was missing in her life since retiring. She was looking for a little more purpose in her life and to be part of a community. Both of which she found when she opened Captain Mo’s Market. Growing up in an entrepreneurial family, Monica always knew that
someday she wanted to own a business. When the owner of the building that formerly housed Bayview Market and more recently, Beer & Skittles, contacted her, she did her research and decided to leap at the opportunity. “I get a warm feeling helping people by providing products they need at a reasonable price,” said Monica. She went on to say that she carries items that people are likely to run out of, saving them a trip into town. If you can’t find something you’re looking for, she encourages people to ask and she will do everything in her power to carry those products in the future. Monica is thankful her hard work-
ing, friendly and helpful staff - made up of family, close friends and new friends that are passionate about providing excellent customer service. Captain Mo’s Market is thankful for the support they have received and looks forward to serving you. They are located on the Bay of Gull Lake, right near the Marina, at 12448 E D Ave, Richland. They are open 9am-8pm Sun.-Thurs., Fri.-Sat. 9am9pm. Summer hours begin May 1st – 9am-9pm Mon.-Sat., Sun. 9am-8pm. For more information follow them on Facebook, or call (269) 203-7696. Jackie Merriam
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April 2021
GOOD NEWS
In Search of our Super-Powers A Mother and Daughter Adventure Series
Puzzling Situations
Jane: As the winter fades into a blurry memory, I am storing away the jigsaw puzzles that accompanied me through the coldest days of 2021. Out of curiosity, I count them: sixteen puzzles! This is startling. In a typical year I might do one or two around Christmas time; never sixteen. The puzzle manufacturers must have had a great business year. I should have bought stock shares in Ravensburger. Looking them over, here are the themes of my puzzles: street scenes, fine art, historical buildings, national parks, butterflies, wildflowers, and puppies. I notice that there are no indoor tableaus at all. My winter comfort was built around virtual adventures carved into tiny, intricate pieces. These little pieces kept me sane at home, and I’m grateful for that. Ellen: When I was little and sick enough to stay home from school, part of my mom’s nursing technique was to bring out a puzzle or two to pass the healing hours. My favorites were those with lots of animals to piece together; it felt like I was making creatures come to life as the world around them was slowly assembled. Recently my dad sent me a text. “Be on the lookout for a package,” it read, “and my apologies to Michael.”
This instantly put me on alert. “What kind of package?” I replied. His response was a ship emoji. Aha. Another enduring interest of mine is Great Lakes shipwrecks. I can vaguely trace it back to an extended summer camping trip where we traveled the UP, spending the nights on lonely beaches listening to the waves. Name a shipwreck book-- I probably own it. Documentary? I’ve watched it. Museum? Been there. The fact that my dad had found a surprise related to this pet topic of mine was intriguing. The wait for the mail began. Several days later, the mysterious package arrived and after one quick shake the mystery was partially solved. That rattle could only be a puzzle. Unwrapping it revealed its full glory: an intricate picture of the 5 Great Lakes that mapped many of the most significant shipwrecks and ghost ships, along with sidebars of fun facts. To Michael’s amusement, the card table was promptly set up in the living room and the puzzling began. Sure, it might not be as relaxing as butterflies and wildflowers, but is there anything better than fitting together a map of maritime catastrophes? Whatever keeps you sane, right? Ellen Knuth and Jane Knuth
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April 2021
GOOD NEWS
The LLost ost Apothecar Apothecaryy A No Novvel by Sarah Penner (Park Row) “Caroline travels alone to London after discovering her husband’s betrayal. Looking for a distraction, she finds one while mudlarking along the Thames: a small glass vial. Inspired to research its origins, Caroline uncovers a dark tale of poison and murder in the 1700s, where an apothecary owner with a unique talent, a dark past, and a keen sense of revenge meets a young girl with a curiosity that might lead her astray. A stellar debut that balances two intriguing storylines and three wonderful characters to create one page-turning story. For fans of The Clockmaker’s Daughter, Once Upon a River, and The Essex Serpent.” —Sharon Layburn, South Huntington Public Library, Huntington Station, NY NoveList read-alike: The Weight of Ink by Rachel Kadish
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“Daisy is shocked when she runs into Liam, who stood her up at her high school prom. To save her employer and Liam’s family legacy, they must fake an engagement and marriage and not fall in love. A whirlwind of a romcom with South Asian American and Irish American families providing background drama and entertainment. Daisy and Liam are lovably imperfect in this quick escapist read. Give to readers who liked Take a Hint, Dani Brown and The Right Swipe.” —Laura Bonds, Harris County Public Library, Houston, TX NoveList read-alike: Accidentally Engaged by Farah Heron
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April 2021
GOOD NEWS
Retro Vintage is BACK, to the future!
It is almost Spring, Good News Paper pals! It is safe to say that this year, maybe more than ever, SPRING is an amazing prospect ahead. A new warm season of change and FUN. One thing we know is happening on warm days soon: VINTAGE SHOPPING! Events seem to be coming slowly back, and we are seeing dates for all sorts pop onto the calendar. Our business Vintage in the Zoo will return to in-person Markets this June! Dates to be announced VERY soon. Our topic this month is a subsection of vintage shopping you are sure to
see at VITZ market in 2021- a style we lovingly refer to as “retro.” Retro Vintage is little newer than some, but still 100% vintage with some modern bling. For us, Retro Vintage is anything 1980’s or newer: from Air Jordan’s and Looney Tunes, to Guess Jeans and Grateful Dead T-shirts, and everything in between, these items remain a hot commodity at our markets and many others across the State, Nation, and globe. Some items you would have never expected back in the days, are now worth SERIOUS cash today. Still have that brand new, licensed Teenage Mutant Ninja
Turtle’s beach towel in the attic? Your NOS Hosoi Hammerhead skateboard deck is hanging on the garage wall? If so, checkout eBay (or A bring them along to the next VITZ Market) because you might be shocked at the resale price. Younger Millennial and Gen-Z folks are into the looks, sounds, and culture that was 80’s to 2000’s, and is now considered -and has rightfully entered the category- of vintage. There has been a serious untick in this crowd (and vendor contingent) since our Market’s began in 2017,
and we welcome these “super-radical” friends with open arms of vintage love, because well... they are “all that and a bag of chips.” Honestly though, pre-pandemic it was very common to see actual lines formed (all day) around our VITZ Retro Vendor’s booths, of excited high school and College kids ready to get geared up. These items and their fanbase continues to grow, and we are fully here for it! As always, we ask one thing: SHOP LOCAL! This pandemic has impacted our West Michigan small business community in a very deep way. Amazing brands that people have spent decades and savings on have closed for good, and many more hang in the balance. Below is a list of great locally owned and operated Retro Vintage businesses we hope you will consider supporting through a purchase today. Happy SPRING!! Stay safe and wear a mask! M + P | Season 4 Market dates announcement soon: VintageintheZoo. com Size 13 | instagram.com/size_13___/ Thrift Collect | thriftcollect.com Westside Connection | westsideconnectiongr.com Mitten Vintage | shopmittenvintage. com Hu.ko Clothing | depop.com/3thr33 Don of Vintage | grailed.com/don_ of_vintage Mackey Thrifts | depop.com/mackeyscores
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April 2021
GOOD NEWS
Finding Peace After an Argument
Arguments are a part of any relationship. It isn’t about the augment so much as how you respond to the argument. Making up after an argument is critical in strengthening any bond. Time to cool down is essential so further arguments do not arise. When having a heated conversation with someone that turns into an argument, a key is not to act like it didn’t happen. If you ignore what happened, it could fester and continue to build and explode again. We all make mistakes. Some are bigger than others, and some arguments or
disagreements are more significant than others, but punishing the other person and ignoring what happened will not strengthen your relationship. It will only cause tension between you. Apologies are challenging, especially if we didn’t feel like we did anything wrong. However, if you can sincerely apologize to the other person, it can help to heal the relationship. If you don’t feel that you did anything wrong, consider apologizing to the other person for upsetting them or hurting their feelings. When
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we apologize for hurting the other person’s feelings, it is not saying that we were wrong or they were right. It is showing that we care about that person, and we want to validate their feelings. After you have both taken time to cool down and have apologized to each other, it is time for the next step, and that is trying to find a solution to the argument. Sometimes there is no simple solution. Approaching the person and asking if they are in a good state of mind to talk about what caused the issue will allow them to
do a self-check in preparation for a possibly difficult conversation. Set up guidelines for the discussion such as: One speaks at one time while the other actively listens Seek an understanding of the situation Use clarifying questions “I hear you say…., is that correct?” Allow the other person to speak and respond. If you do not like what they have to say: Make a mental note Listen with intensity Use “I” messages - I feel…., I think….., I wish…, When you follow these guidelines, you show the other person that you want to understand their point of view and be understood from your point of view. Reflecting on the argument and then the follow up to the solution allows you to have a better understanding of not only the other person’s communication style but yours as well. With this understanding, you can have heated discussions without always ramping the conversation up to an argument. As always, if you are having difficulties with your relationships, feeling depressed, overwhelmed, or anxious, please don’t hesitate to reach out to a mental health provider. We are here to help. If you need to strengthen communication in your relationship, you can reach out to a Marriage and Family Therapist to help you maintain your communication. Julie Sorenson MA, LPC
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April 2021 Teenagers are notorious for disappearing acts during their tenure in adolescence. It is not uncommon as a parent to have to coerce their teen to WANT to spend time together. I have fond memories of leaving high school in the afternoon and going straight to my friend’s house until either dinner or bedtime. “Back in my day” we had no cell phones so constant contact with my parents was not an expectation. Call when you get there. Call when you leave. Fast forward to the age of instant communication and GPS tracking apps, parents pretty much can know where their teens are at any second in time. But this doesn’t mean parents are more in tune with their children nowadays - quite the opposite. There are many reasons why parents and adolescents are so connected yet so distant at the same time currently. With technology, parents can monitor the majority of Internet and chat activity. However, there are apps specifically designed to keep things private. Apps that immediately delete content once received and viewed. Unless you have an app that sends a copy of every text your child sends and receives, it takes 5 seconds to delete chat history. This topic of privacy in adolescence is another topic altogether. I digress. Another layer added to this is the dreaded pandemic. Anxiety and depression have ravaged many households during the past year – children and adults alike. This affects interpersonal relationships. After a full day wearing a mask and trying to focus
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Parenting Is That A Ghost or My Teenager? on school or attempting to comprehend 6 hours of new material daily through a computer screen does not make for the most engaging young person at the dinner table. Parents are not immune to the Zoom fatigue phenomenon or stress of the virus either. These things together are a recipe for monosyllabic conversations and texting your child from the other room “Did you eat today? Have you showered in the last month? What is growing under your bed?” It’s a challenge to engage teens right now. So what can you do?
Chores! Just kidding… but seriously. Setting a schedule for them to participate in SOMETHING productive every single day that requires them to leave their bedroom. You may need to dig into the parent toolbox and use incentives – allowance, video game money, etc. Outdoors! Family walks, hikes, water and winter sports. So many options! Cooking! Let them choose a meal a week to cook and you play sous chef. They get to practice an important life skill. And my personal favorite – Forced Family Fun! Insert eye roll emoji here. This
doesn’t mean you have to force them to play monopoly or journal with you. Try feigning, I mean “showing”, interest in their video games, make a Tik Tok video with them, or ask them what they consider fun and give it a whirl. Now is a great time to explore ways to latch on to those precious moments you get with your teens before they leave the nest. Good luck! Arlene Giacona Brightside Counseling www.brightsidecc.com
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List Mania 10
April 2021
I make lists. Lots of lists. Grocery, favorite music, favorite books, books I want to read, art supplies, and to-do lists. You name it, I have a list for it. You may think, “A well organized person,” or you may think, “She’s forgetful.” How about a little of both. I’m betting a lot of Good News readers have similar lists, maybe not as many as I do, but maybe even more! One of my lists may not be quite as common as others. I’m a weather and atmospheric phenomenon nerd and have two weather bucket lists. One list is for interesting weather and astronomical events that I’ve seen and the other list is for those events I haven’t seen but hope to. Michigan is a unique state with water, water, everywhere, and the abundant plant and animal life that goes along with all that water. This mix of water, plants, earth gasses, and our geographical northern location provide fertile ground for a wide variety of atmospheric and weather-related events. Some weather events on my lists require a rare set of circumstances in order to happen. Some might take traveling to another location in Michigan. Luckily some may happen right here and provide us with opportunities to see weather or atmospheric events from our own neighborhoods. Here are a few of the atmospheric and weather events that I’ve seen in
Michigan: Ice volcanoes on Lake Michigan, blue ice, solar eclipse crescent shadows*, a peculiar mirage on the shore of Lake Michigan, thunder snow, an earthquake, a comet, a sun halo, lenticular clouds, ice pancakes, bucket-sized blobs floating in Lake Superior (colonies of microscopic animals called Bryozoa), northern lights, swamp gas (ignis fatuus), ground clouds or ground fog, crepuscular rays, ice spears, a glowing tombstone, sparkling diamond snow, beautiful sea smoke on two Great Lakes, and snow mold, a tissue paper-like mold layer covering the whole yard (yuck). Snow mold forms after a cold winter where the snow cover never melts down to ground level, thus no air reaches the ground. This creates the perfect conditions for a layer of mold to form over lawns. It looked like a layer of soggy grayish tissue paper in big sheets coating the grass. Check out Google for pictures. Here are a few weather events that I still want to see but haven’t yet: Ice balls rolling on the shore of Lake Michigan, ice whirlpools, gravity wave clouds, plasma balls, a moon rainbow (moonglow), jelly roll snow (flat layers of snow sliding down a hill and rolling into a jelly roll shape), and last but not least, I want to see an unidentified flying object (UFO), one of those mysterious lights or objects in the sky. Many Michiganders have seen such lights
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all the way from Michigan’s historic past to the present. There are many theories as to what they are. I would like to see one with my own eyes so I can develop my own theory as to what I think they might be. Maybe you have a theory about what these elusive objects are? We’ll be heading to Lake Michigan soon to see if we can catch the last of the cold weather phenomenon. Maybe I’ll be able to check another weather event off my bucket list. Spring is on the way and there’ll be plenty of opportunities to see interesting warm weather atmospheric
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events too. I love being a weather nerd. Keep your eyes on the skies. *Check this website with information on why Michiganders were able to see solar eclipse crescent shadows during the eclipse: https://nerdfighteria.info/v/wGeKWOD468k/ Ann Murray is an award-winning commercial illustrator who has illustrated eight children’s books for local authors. Her stories, one of which was collaboration with her husband, have been in three anthologies.
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April 2021
Toya Williams, owner of Aunt Nay’s Cookies & Treats, is a master at combining her baking and artistic talents to create delicious one-of-a kind treats for any occasion. Aunt Nay’s specializes in hand painted, melt-in-your-mouth sugar cookies, iced with a light lemony flavored royal icing. I couldn’t help but notice her creations on a recent trip to the Richland Harding’s. I was so impressed that I had to find out who created them. I was overjoyed to find out they were produced by a local Parchment resident at the Can Do Kitchen in downtown Kalamazoo. They are perfect for weddings, baby showers/reveals, birthday celebrations, graduations, holidays, corporate gifts and more! I absolutely love and
enjoy designing cookies,” says Toya. She went on to say that offering the cookies at an affordable price is important to her - Large, 5” cookies are just $3.99! Another one of Aunt Nay’s creations is banana pudding (Nana
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Pudd’n). You haven’t tasted banana pudding until you’ve tasted Aunt Nay’s. I’m not even a fan of banana pudding, but I couldn’t stop eating Aunt Nay’s secret recipe. The 12 oz. container is stuffed to the brim, enough for two and costs just $5.99. “ I want to give people their money’s worth,” says Toya. She also offers a whole, family sized banana pudding that can be special ordered. Hot cocoa bombs are definitely the bomb at Aunt Nay’s! Toya starts with the finest cocoa and ingredients - offering a wide array of unique flavors. Look for the monthly, featured flavor, March is pistachio and April is banana pudding. Hot cocoa bombs are expertly decorated and are huge! Made in a large European mold and enough for 2 cups of decadent cocoa. The cost is just $4.99. In addition, she offers rice krispiecicles (rice krispie treats on a stick, covered with chocolate), breakable filled chocolate shapes with a decorative mallet, donut shaped brownies and chocolate covered Oreo circles, pretzels and strawberries – each hand
decorated. Toya takes special orders for combination treat boxes, cakes and other custom treats – the sky is the limit! Aunt Nay’s Cookies and Treats was founded in 2015 after Toya lost her mother, Renay (Aunt Nay) McClain, a talented baker and cook. Toya found that baking made her feel close to her mother and was very therapeutic, which combined with her desire to honor her mother’s memory, provided the impetus for her delicious business venture. Toya’s family members, especially her husband Troy, have been very supportive, and have given her the confidence to embark on this venture. Her 4-year-old granddaughter, Gabrielle, one of her biggest fans, has announced that she is going to become a baker like her grandmother – a future successor for sure! Toya is grateful and thankful to her staff, Isheia McClain and Totalnysha Matthews, who share her desire to wow customers with Aunt Nay’s quality, decadent creations. For the latest tasty treats, including Easter and Mother’s Day gifts, visit Aunt Nay’s Cookies and Treats on Facebook and Instagram: AUNTNAYS. Feel free to contact Toya directly, call (269) 823-9994 or email: auntnayscookiesandtreats@gmail. com. Banana pudding, cocoa bombs and seasonally decorated cookies are delivered every Friday to the Richland & Woodbridge Harding’s stores. Hurry in - they sell out quickly! Jackie Merriam
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April 2021
The Creamery is Now Open in Kalamazoo’s Edison Neighborhood Construction is complete at the Creamery, located at 1101 Portage Street in Kalamazoo’s Edison Neighborhood. The $14.7M mixed-use development consists of 48 mixedincome apartments, an expansion of the YWCA Kalamazoo’s downtown Children’s Center, and an additional commercial/office suite. Affordability has been a key concern throughout development, with most apartments designed to be affordable to low- and moderateincome households. Fifteen one-bedroom apartments are available to rent for $319/month to households earning up to $16,500 annually. Other apartments range in price from $811/ month to $1,460/month, based on bedroom type and household income.
All residents will benefit from a host of amenities including in-unit washers & dryers, energy star appliances, central air, fiber Internet access, a rooftop terrace, fitness room, community room, indoor bicycle storage, on-site management, and more. Upon opening, the YWCA Children’s Center expansion will feature on-site affordable childcare for children 0-3 years of age as well as the area’s first 24-hour drop-in childcare for children 0-12 years old. Both programs will be open to all families in the community and will have supports in place to serve the most vulnerable. The expansion will feature a nature-based play space in addition to numerous other amenities. The Creamery is expected to achieve LEED Platinum Certification, the highest level of efficiency
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and sustainable construction that is recognized by the U.S. Green Building Council. The Creamery incorporates rooftop solar panels, a green roof, high performance plumbing, efficient HVAC, high quality building materials, and other design features to achieve this goal. Upon certification, it will be only the second such commercial building in Kalamazoo, following WMU’s Heritage Hall Alumni Center. Hollander Development Corporation of Portage developed the Creamery. Byce & Associates of Kalamazoo designed it, with construction managed by Frederick Construction of Vicksburg. The project took shape through a multi-year collaborative effort with the Edison Neighborhood Association, YWCA Kalamazoo, The Kalamazoo County
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Land Bank, the City of Kalamazoo, and numerous other local stakeholders. Financial partners include MSHDA, MEDC, InSite Capital/ TCF Bank, the Stryker Johnston Foundation, the Kalamazoo Community Foundation, LISC, the City of Kalamazoo, and the Kalamazoo Brownfield Redevelopment Authority. Project team members included Warner Norcross & Judd, Driesenga & Associates, DLZ Michigan, Catalyst Partners, and the Green Home Institute. The Creamery is now available for leasing. For inquiries, contact (269) 225-6535, online at www.kalamazoocreamery.com or find us on Facebook.
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April 2021
be ART ful
art1 | ärt |noun 1 the expression or application of human creative skill and imagination, typically in a visual form such as painting or sculpture, producing works to be appreciated primarily for their beauty or emotional power. This is the first of many descriptions of art that can be found in the dictionary. Art at every level intrigues me. It inspires and offers a variety of interpretations depending on the individual connection to the work. As an artist, I wholeheartedly agree with writer Thomas Merton’s quote; “Art enables us to find ourselves and
lose ourselves at the same time.” I have a large collection of elementary school art from when my girls were little that I love and cherish. They are some of my absolute favorite pieces of art! That timeframe of childhood when it is encouraged to make messes, explore and have fun. Mistakes don’t exist, they are happy accidents and it is all part of the creative learning process. I am currently applying that
GOOD NEWS organic and fundamental approach to some of my own work and it is so completely freeing. Then an ah-ha moment happened…let’s make something and incorporate kid art. Did you know drink coasters are making a comeback? They are more than just decorative pieces because they protect the surface where a drink is placed. The condensation from a cold beverage can stain and ruin the surface and a hot drink can burn it…trust me, I know. My oldest daughter just celebrated her twenty-first birthday and being a mom, thought she needed
something for her and her friends to set their adult beverages on at home. I decided to make coasters for her
using her own childhood art. Follow the simple and easy-to-do directions below to create your own. Materials needed: Paper Art . Tiles . Mod Podge . Sandpaper . Scissors . Cork . Pencil . Paintbrush Instructions: Set the tile directly on the art, trace around it and cut out your square. Apply a thick coat of gloss Mod Podge with a paintbrush directly on top of the tile. Lay your paper on it, press down firmly and wipe edges clean. Mod Podge is a glue, sealer and finish. Once the paper is adhered to the tile and dry, sand the edges clean. Add approximately 5 layers of Mod Podge to the top of the artwork, let dry and lightly sand between layers. Lastly, cut adhesive-back cork to stick on the bottom of your tile. You can find all your supplies at local craft and home improvement stores. Good luck stopping with this project…these coasters are so cool and fun to make! While I have your attention, I would like thank you again for being on this creative journey with me. It has been 3 years since I wrote my first article for the Good News paper and none of it would have been possible without our beloved editor and publisher. Thank you Jackie for having me be a part of this wonderful monthly publication! xo ~Bridget Email: bridgetfoxkzoo@gmail.com Social: https://www.instagram.com/ bridgetfoxkzoo
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April 2021
14
GOOD NEWS
You Can’t Go Back ... Or Can You? Jimmy & the Mortals
Do you ever feel nostalgic when you hear an old song that brings back memories, feelings and images of a happier, simpler time? It happens to me every
time I listen to the music of my generation, the 60s, which was a happier, simpler time in many ways, but also a decade of war, social unrest, and cultural revolution. The 60’s were tumultuous times. The Vietnam War and the protests and riots on our streets and campuses left us all dazed and confused – a divided country of pro- and anti-war factions. The assassinations fostered a distrust in government and a rise in conspiracy theories that continues to this
day. The Civil Rights Movement brought racial inequality to the forefront of our national conscience and the Women’s Rights Movement sought equal rights, opportunities and personal freedom for women. It was a time of increased environmental awareness as more and more people came to understand the fragility of our planet and the importance of preserving it for future generations. And it saw the beginnings of technological advances that would lead us into the 21st century. Through it all a “Generation Gap” emerged as young people defiantly shed the bonds of parental oversight and the social-cultural norms of their generation. Born of their own struggles, parents felt threatened as their sense of nationalism was challenged by resistance to the draft in an unpopular war and they were torn between upholding their strong family values and losing the connection they once had with their children. The 60’s
were troubling times for the entire family. No, we can’t go back but through the music of the 60’s we can reminisce and appreciate the good times and regret the bad as we try to understand where we’ve been and where we may be going. It’s all reflected in the music of the 60’s – music that tried to change the world. And perhaps it did. The songs that the older generation once hated are now a recognized part of our culture and you hear them every day on the radio, in elevators, and in the grocery store! Jimmy & the Mortals is a classic
rock band from Southwest Michigan that specializes in the music of the 60’s and it works in their favor that they were there when it all happened – the heyday of rock and roll! The songs they play hold a special meaning to them and their massive song list is certain to bring fond memories. Jimmy Phillips - Guitar & vocals; Debbie Phillips - Autoharp, percussion & vocals; Dan Diaz - Drums & vocals; Johnny Hammond – Bass; On Facebook: Jimmy & the Mortals On the Web: mortals2.com Email: mortalsband@gmail.com
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April 2021
HEALTH
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Are You Destined To Be An Apple, A Pear, Or Even a Banana?
I’m talking about body shape. An “apple” is a term used to describe people who accumulate fat in the abdominal area, while a “pear” shaped person has larger hips and thighs.
A “banana” (my term) really needs no further explanation. If your mother or father was an apple or a pear, are you destined to have the same body shape your entire life? In short, how much of your body shape is determined by genetics? Several genetic studies over the past decade involving hundreds of thousands of people of European descent have detected specific gene locations associated with body fat distribution. One of the measures used in determining body fat distribution is: waist-to-hip ratio (WHR). The higher the number (typically greater than 1.0) the greater the likelihood that you have excess body fat. These studies reinforced previous research showing a stronger heritability component for WHR in women than in men. (Sorry ladies.) Research in twins also helps validate that there is a genetic component to body shape. A study published in the American Medical Association (AMA) Journal of Ethics in 2010
looked at the anatomy of identical twins. Their findings support the concept that body surface features and body shape are genetically predetermined. Furthermore, diet and exercise don’t permanently alter shape. I can hear an outpouring of moans and groans already. It’s hard not to feel disheartened about being an “apple” when the iconic standard is to have “washboard” abs. But being an “apple” has far more serious consequences than appearance. It’s the link that this body type has to cardiovascular
disease, type 2 diabetes, and certain cancers. Obesity increases the risk of developing these chronic conditions. Plus storing excess fat in your belly increases the risk even more. -But all fat is not the same. Visceral fat surrounds abdominal organs including the liver, intestines, and pancreas. It is sometimes referred to as “active fat” because it affects the body chemistry in a way that promotes disorders that lead to more serious illness. The other type of fat is called “subcutaneous” because it is stored
under the skin. Subcutaneous fat does not have the same effect. “Pear” shaped people store their fat around their hips and thighs, locations of the body that don’t have internal organs. You may be genetically destined to have your mother’s or dad’s apple shape, but you stand a much better chance of being a “healthy apple” if you eat healthfully and exercise. Improving these lifestyle factors may allow you to achieve a less obvious apple shape (maybe a Red Delicious instead of a Honey Crisp), thereby slimming down overall. Forget the concept of “spot reduction”. You can do sit-ups till the cows come home to slim your belly, but it won’t work. The concept of “spot reduction” is a myth. In addition to keeping your calorie intake in check, you might want to limit your intake of added sugar and saturated fat. They have been shown to boost the amount of abdominal fat. Alas, we all can’t be bananas. Last thought: We’re told that we use only 10% of our brain power. Think of how smart we’d be if we used the other 63%. Remember to MAKE it a good day and be kind. Ken Dettloff ACE Certified Personal Trainer.
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April 2021
Recipes Homebaked bread is AMAZING, especially when you have recipes that will work with whatever you happen to have on hand. No flour, no problem! Food stylist/Photographer: Laura Kurella We learned quickly last year, when covid first hit, how limited we are when it comes to cooking with just what we have on hand. In this past year, with so many items being absent from grocery store shelves, and online sources, many have found it challenging to create food in the home, especially when it comes to baking because recipes often call for crucial specifics. There’s no doubt that having limited supplies are challenging. However, I have learned (on my feet) that “where there’s a will there’s a way,” most especially when you have a craving for a crusty, fresh-baked loaf of bread! So comforting, aromatic, and crusty, home-baked bread is treat to behold, but many avoid taking a shot at baking bread simply because it carries with it a certain risk of failure. True, baking is a science, which means paying attention to measure-
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Rise Up! ments and timing, but that’s all! If you are able to measure ingredients and set a timer, you should be able to be successful at baking your own bread! Today’s recipes seem to be more forgiving, and far less labor-intensive, which makes baking bread not only easier to execute, but also downright delicious, and fun, too! One of the oldest and biggest changes to bread-baking used to be all the kneading, which was long thought to be the only way for bread develop the gluten mesh it needs to hold gasses and give loaves a beautiful rise. However, we have come to learn that if you make your dough wetter (very sticky), the glutenin and gliadin are then freed to float around on their own, and form gluten on their own- without the need to knead! This change in moisture level is what evolved us into the “no knead” method, which requires merely mixing up a dough that is just dry enough to form into a dough. You want the dough to be as “wet” as possible because the “looseness” the water creates is what will enable the dough to trap gasses and blow those big bubbles you see in those amazing, and pricey rustic loaves!
Artisan bakers discovered that extra flavor also develops while wheat soaks within the wet dough overnight, adding nuances and character traditionally kneaded bread lacks. This is why many no knead bread recipes call for “resting” in the fridge for at least overnight. This step is one of those well-kept secrets of many popular pizzerias, bakeries and restaurants because they have learned to make up batches ahead of time, so the dough gets that extra flavor step in the fridge! For every day you let dough rest, more flavor will develop, but experts in the field recommend using all the dough up within 10 to 14 days tops. Not kneading saves a lot of time, and not needing yeast saves you even more! There are quite a few different breads out there today that offer you easy options to suit your diet, health restrictions, or simply what you may or may not have available in your home at the present moment. Lastly, if you are looking to add more interesting flavors and nutrition to your loaves, I highly suggest checking out Palouse Heritage, a fifth generation Washington farm that focuses on the colorful and fascinating diversity of heritage grains.
Offering a wide variety with remarkable nutrition, heritage grains offer us distinctly new flavor profiles that improve the taste and health properties in everything you make! An added bonus is that purchasing your grain supplies in berry form provides for a fresher, and longer shelf life than ground flours, which means you can stock up for any future emergencies. To learn more about what Palouse Farms has to offer, visit them online at palouseheritage.com. For a chance to WIN a three-pound bag of Palouse wheat berries, courtesy of Palouse Farms, simply follow me on any social media, post your interest in the giveaway, being sure to include the tag @palouse_brand, and tag some friends, to be entered in this random drawing. Given what we’ve been enduring in this past year I thought it would be helpful to offer recipes that offer options, so you can bake something up with whatever you happen to have on hand! Here now are three wonderfullydelicious ways to “Rise up.” Enjoy! Laura Kurella
Heavenly No Knead Yeast Bread Prep Time: 15 minutes; Bake Time: 45 minutes; Rest Time:10 hours to 10 days; Yield: 8 servings. 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting 1/4 teaspoon instant yeast 1 tablespoon sugar or honey (optional) 1 teaspoon unrefined sea salt 1 3/4 cups warm water Cornmeal In a large bowl, combine flour, yeast, and salt in a large bowl. Add 1
3/4 cups water and stir until blended. Cover top of bowl with plastic wrap, and let rest in a warm place until it doubles in size, about 3-5 hours. When the dough has risen, place it, as is, in the refrigerator overnight. The next day, (or up to 10 days later), remove dough from refrigerator, and place on a floured surface. With flour on your fingers and work surface, fold dough in half a few times, working some flour into it (feeding it) then shape into a ball. Place a piece of
parchment paper on a cutting board or cookie sheet. Sprinkle it with cornmeal then place ball of bread dough on it. Sprinkle top of loaf with some extra flour then make a a slash in the top of the loaf with a sharp knife, which helps it rise further once in the oven! Cover it lightly with another sheet of parchment and place in a warm area to rise. About 90 minutes later, preheat oven to 450 degrees, and place a 6- to 8-quart oven-proof pot
with lid in the oven as well. 30 minutes later, carefully remove heated pot from oven, then lift bread by just the sheet of parchment and place in hot pot. Cover with the lid and return to oven. Bake for 30 minutes covered, and 15 minutes uncovered, or until the loaf is nicely browned. Remove from oven, and pot, and cool on wire rack slightly before serving.
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April 2021
GOOD NEWS
Recipes Wonderful, Wheat-free Honey-Oat Bread
Prep Time: 10 minutes; Bake Time: 40-45 minutes; Rest Time: 5 minutes; Total Time: 55-65 minutes; Yield: 12 servings. 3 cups old-fashioned rolled oats, plus extra for sprinkling 1 teaspoon baking soda 1/2 teaspoon baking powder 3/4 cup milk, or substitute 1/2 cup honey 2 large eggs 1/2 teaspoon unrefined sea salt Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Using a food processor, mill or blender, grind 3 cups oats into fine flour. You want 2 3/4 cups of oat flour, so if you end up short, grind more oats into flour. You want to grind for at least two minutes so that your oat flour is very fine. To flour, add baking soda,
baking powder, and salt then process for 10 seconds. In a large bowl, whisk together milk, honey, eggs, and milk. Once blended well, gently fold in flour mixture to wet ingredients, mixing gently until combined. Batter should be runny. Let rest for five minutes. Meanwhile, line a glass loaf pan with parchment paper then spray with cooking spray. Carefully pour mixture into prepared pan, sprinkle top with rolled oats, if desired, then place on the upper rack in the oven. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until inserted toothpick comes out clean. Let cool COMPLETELY - ideally overnight – because bread is crumbly, so if you let it cool completely overnight, it will be easier to handle.
Buttery Beer Bread Prep Time: 5 minutes; Bake Time: 55 minutes; Rest Time: 15 minutes; Total Time: 1 hour, 15 minutes; Yield: 12 servings. 3 cups flour, scant: sifted or spooned to a level measure 1 tablespoon baking powder 1 teaspoon unrefined sea salt 1/4 cup sugar or honey 12 ounces beer, room temp 1/2 cup melted butter Preheat oven to 375 degrees and grease or line a loaf pan. In a large bowl, spoon flour into a measuring cup then level before adding into bowl. (VIP: The key to success in this recipe is to not add too much flour as that will create a denser, heavy loaf.) Add baking powder, sugar, and salt then blend all dry ingredients together well. Pour beer in then stir. Batter should be very sticky. If not, add a bit more beer! Pour into prepared pan, then carefully pour melted butter over the top of the bread mixture. Do NOT mix in. Place pan carefully in the middle of the oven and bake for 55 minutes. Remove from oven and let cool -in pan -for 15 minutes before removing. NOTES: Most people just scoop
the 1 cup measure in the flour canister and level it off. That compacts the flour, and will turn your bread into
a hard biscuit. If you do not have a sifter, use a spoon to spoon the flour into a 1-cup measure. This will aerate
the flour and give you the amazing beer bread this recipe brings!
18
April 2021
Environment
New Friends Flying In Several mornings ago, I walked outside with the dogs and was greeted by the unmistakable smell of spring. As I write this, it’s still March and the vernal equinox is two weeks away, but that whiff – woodsy, moist, vaguely warm, green – is a promise. It means that winter is almost over. It will soon be time to put away heavy socks and get out shorts, unless you’re the type that wears them all winter! The lawn furniture cushions will be brushed off, placed on their frames, and porchsitting and visiting outdoors can return. Hooray!! I also noticed another harbinger of warmer days ahead – the songs of birds returning to the area from their winter homes. I’m a city girl and grew up loving the outdoors, but I never explored nature with anyone who knew more than I did. I wish I’d grown up with a knowledgeable someone with whom to share woodsy walks, to explore
creeks and ponds, to forage for wild mushrooms – but that was not the case. What I’ve learned has come through coursework and workshops in field biology and what I’ve managed to teach myself, with significant help from friends. One thing I’ve never managed is birding. One has to get up so early and have such sharp eyes and ears to be successful. That would be three strikes for me! I have, however, so envied those who could, without hesitation, not only know that they are hearing a warbler, but know which specific kind, and point it out, deep in the refuge of a large, leafy tree. Upon my retirement, my daughter’s family bought me a set of binoculars and a Michigan bird book. I’ve also treated myself to a cell phone app that will sample outdoor sounds and propose what species I’m most likely hearing. Now I’m ready!
I’ve already noticed that the house sparrows who staked a claim on the open space under my porch roof have started to build their nests. The first robin made its appearance this week, now that the ground has softened after the winter freeze. The pileated woodpecker, still unseen but clearly heard, is feasting on insects from some neighboring tree. This year, I pledge to support birds in their migration, whether our area is the final destination or just a stopover. Our location is part of two gigantic pathways for migratory birds – the Mississippi and the Atlantic flyways. Millions of birds will pass through, mostly traveling at night, as they return from exotic locales like Mexico and South America, as well as Cuba and the Caribbean. With the abundance of both wooded and watery habitats, Michiganders are blessed with the opportunity to support many
SPRING SWEETS
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GOOD NEWS dozens of migratory species. A significant hazard to bird migration, in both spring and fall seasons, is light pollution. Birds are attracted to artificial light sources and can collide with windows and reflective façade surfaces. Even if they avoid buildings, they are still convenient prey for raptors that lie in wait. Big cities like Detroit, Chicago, and Toronto are asked to turn off lights in skyscrapers above the fifth floor to reduce bird collisions with buildings. In these COVID days, when so many people work from home, that will be a tremendous sidebenefit. Although a small effort, I will pledge to turn off my exterior walkway lights until June. Because of outdoor cats, I don’t want to hang feeders, but I encourage those who can to offer a source of fresh water to our avian friends. Indigo buntings and rose-breasted grosbeaks are fans of black oiled sunflower seeds. Orioles are crazy for oranges, cut in half, topped with grape jelly, and secured to a branch off the ground with another close by on which to perch. If willing to go the “extra mile,” mealworms, available very cheaply at pet stores, are a great source of protein! The Cornell Laboratory of Ornithology (www.birds.cornell.edu) is an excellent resource for all things related to birds. The site supports citizen study of feathered friends, scientific research, and blogs that track migration in real-time. One link on the site (www.feederwatch.org) lists not only the most common visitors to backyards in local geographic areas, but also includes recommendations for favorite foods and even feeder types. I am book-marking that resource as I pledge to become a birding neophyte this season. I hope some of you will join me! Cheryl Hach Retired Science Teacher Kalamazoo Area Math and Science Center
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barber shop
Professional Barber Shop Service Appointments & Walk-Ins Welcome Mon-Fri. 7am-5pm., Sat. 7am-2pm 7628 S. Westnedge, Ste. C – 323-3771
19
April 2021
GOOD NEWS
Framing Moments: Photography from the Kalamazoo Institute of Arts
Now on display through May 15th, this time capsule of an exhibition showcases the accumulation of photography within KIA’s collection. Curated by renowned author, curator, historian, and photographer Dr. Deborah Willis, she imagines the stories and events that encouraged KIA curators to acquire these images over the past 60 years. The exhibition takes an interesting look to what the world looked like through the lens of photographers, the storytellers of our time. With nearly 100 photographs capturing the everyday lives from across the globe, expect to see the photographer’s unique ability to preserve moments, people, and places and cultural impact. You might recognize many of the featured artists including Andy Warhol, Barbara
Morgan, Ansel Adams, Dawoud Bey, Diego Rivera, Sheila Pree Bright, Gordon Parks and many others. When asked, “what do you hope people take away from visiting Framing Moments in our galleries?”, Dr. Willis said, “I hope they will understand photographic collections such as the KIA’s as a site of memory to think about the diverse narratives that we find in such a unique collection.” To highlight the exhibition further the KIA created educational programs around the world of photography. If you missed the recent Curator Talk with Dr. Willis, you can check it out on the KIA YouTube channel. Coming up, there are more programs centered around photography including an ARTbreak with Mary Whalen and Gary Ciadella they will discuss their artwork in Framing Moments and the passion and inspiration they find behind the lens. A Framing Moments 2-day symposium, April 23-24 celebrating the exhibition, and you can even take photography classes with Kirk Newman Art School. Finally another great surprise, KIA is publishing a Framing Moments catalog which will be available for purchase soon and make a wonderful collector’s item for any art lover. One of the benefits of having the Kalamazoo Institute of Arts locally is that is close for everyone to enjoy. Don’t miss this great new exhibition and see it before it is gone. Additional Exhibition Information • Unveiling American
Frida Kahlo: EmmyLou
Genius (Now – December 2022): the reimagination of our permanent collection. After a delayed opening we are excited to see our lower galleries open and filled with our permanent collection. This long-term presentation demonstrates our commitment to an increasingly more inclusive and diverse representation of American artists within our holdings. The exhibition will explore key stories that women, African Americans, Latinx and other artists have told about our culture, art, and history. • Young Artists of Kalamazoo County & High School Area Show (April 30 – May 30): If you are an artist in grades K-12, the Kalamazoo Institute of Arts wants to celebrate
you and your creativity! The KIA is excited to announce that for the first time ever we are combining the annual High School Area Show (9-12th grade) and Young Artists of Kalamazoo County (K-8th grade). Both shows highlight an immense amount of artistic talent, delighting visitors of all ages for over 40 years. Image 1: Girl on Train, Waterloo Station, London, 1969, 1969. gelatin silver print. Director’s Fund Purchase, 1976/7.12 © Eva Rubinstein 2021 Image 2: Frida Kahlo: EmmyLou © 2021 Banco de México Diego Rivera Frida Kahlo Museums Trust, Mexico, D.F. / Artists Rights Society (ARS), New York
FREE april Events
Due to Corona virus be sure to call or look online for possible event changes or cancellations. Mon., Mar. 29 - Sat., April 3 Spring Candy Hop Comstock Library, 345-0136 Thursday, April 1 Monthly Teen DIY Project & Biblio Boxes, (6-12th grade) 345-0136 Comstock Library
Friday, April 2 Bravo 2021: featuring the best Talent of local students, 7-8pm, Online at Stulberg.org
Wed., Apr. 7-Fri. Apr. 9 WMU International Festival On YouTube, 6-7:30pm Wmich.edu, 387-3993
Thurs., Apr. 1,8,15,22,29 Storytime on Facebook LIVE 10:30am, Comstock Library
Thursday, April 8 Sat., Apr. 3,10 Teen Oreo Tasting, 7-8pm Bank Street Outdoor Mini Market 8am-Noon, 1157 Bank St., Kalamazoo Kit pickup April 1-8 Pawpaw.lib.mi.us Monday, April 5 Friday, April 9 Adult Pop-up Craft: Mason Virtual Jazz Concert Event: Jar Vase with Chalk Paint Aaron Diehl Trio, 7:30pm Comstock Library, 345-0136 Thegilmore.org Mon., Apr. 5 – Sat., Apr. 10 Saturday, April 10 Online Doll Hospital: Dolls & Internet Users Group, stuffed animals get a Covid-19 10am-Noon, pawpaw.lib.mi.us vaccine. Schedule 345-0136
Thursday, April 1 Virtual General Trivia 7-8pm, Richland Library Facebook/richlandclib
Mon., Apr. 5 – Sun. Apr. 10 Foodways Symposium Online Event, KVCC Museum Kalamazoofoodways.org
Friday, April 2 Memory Café on Zoom for those with Mild dementia & caregivers, 10:30-11:30am pawpaw.lib.mi.us, 657-3800
Tuesday, April 6 Virtual Artbreak: Artists & artistic practice during residency, Noon, kiarts.org
Wednesday, April 14 Birds & Coffee Online Chat: Cavity Nesting Birds, Kalamazoo Bird Sanctuary Register ahead: kbs.msu.edu
Tuesday, April 6 Take-and-make craft: Fire Ink Art, 7-8pm, Register ahead day of 629-9085
Thursday, April 15 Parchment Action Team on Zoom: A Community forum, 7pm, parchmentlibrary.org
Thursday, April 1 Monthly Youth Craft Kits, Storytime Kits, & Biblio Boxes Comstock Library, 345-0136
Saturday, April 3 Spring Coin Show, 9am-3pm Kalamazoo County Expo Ctr.
Tuesday, April 13 Heartbreak Book Club, 10:3011:30am, pawpaw.lib.mi.us
Fri., Apr. 16 – Sat. Apr. 17 Kalamazoo Poetry Festival online event, 9am-9pm Kalamazoopoetryfestival.com
Thursday, April 22 Michigan History Trivia On Facebook Live, 7-8pm Richland Community Library
Saturday, April 17, 24 Kalamazoo Farmer’s Market 7am- 2pm, New Location: Mayors’ Riverfront Park
Thursday, April 22 Happy Earth Day! Free Admission at the Kalamazoo Bird Sanctuary, 9am-5pm.
Mon., Apr. 19 – Sat., Apr. 24 Celebrate Earth Day/Week Programs & Giveaways, all ages, pawpaw.lib.mi.us
Saturday, April 24 Spring Craft Show, 9am-3pm Kalamazoo County Expo Ctr.
Monday, April 19 Mystery Book Club (Zoom) 7pm, Parchmentlibrary.org Tuesday, April 20 Virtual ArtBreak: Mary Whalen & Gary Cialdella, Photographers, Noon, kiarts.org Tuesday, April 20 Faith Perspectives on Climate Change on Zoom,
7pm, parchmentlibrary.org Tuesday, April 20 Nature Getaways, 6:30pm Pawpaw.lib.mi.us
Saturday, April 24 Stamp & Cover Show, 10-5 Kalamazoo County Expo Ctr. Saturday, April 24 Kids Seed Ball on Facebook Kit pick-up begins Apr. 19 11am, pawpaw.lib.mi.us Sunday, April 25 Breen-A-Thon, 11am-3pm Music, games & more! Portage City Hall, 329-4511
20
April 2021
GOOD NEWS
Spring Savings JOHN DEERE LAWN & GARDEN TRACTORS 12 Months Same As Cash*Or 4.9% APR Financing fixed rate for 60 Months**
X330 Lawn Tractor
X350 Lawn Tractor
X380 Lawn Tractor
Payments as low as: $63/month**
Payment as Low as $69/month**
Payment as Low as $87/month**
$3,199
• 22 hp (Briggs & Stratton) • Hydrostatic Drive • 42A Mower Deck
$3,399
• 21.5 hp (Kawasaki) • Hydrostatic Drive • 42A Mower Deck
*Offer valid on qualifying purchases made between 02 March 2021 to 03 May 2021. Subject to approved credit on a Revolving Plan account, a service of John Deere Financial, f.s.b. For consumer use only. No down payment required. Interest will be charged to your account from the purchase date at 17.90% APR if the purchase balance is not paid in full within 12 months or if your account is otherwise in default. Available at participating U.S. dealers. Prices and models may vary by dealer. Offer available on new equipment and in the U.S. only. Prices and savings in U.S. dollars.
$4,699 $4,3991 • 23 hp (Kawasaki) • Hydrostatic Drive • 48A Mower Deck
¹Offer valid for $300 off on X354, X370, X380, X384, X390, X394 Select Series™ Lawn Tractors purchased from a participating John Deere dealer between 02 March 2021 to 03 May 2021. Some restrictions apply. Prices and models may vary by dealers. Prices and savings are in U.S. dollars.
**Offer valid on qualifying purchases made between 02 March 2021 to 03 May. This offer is for X series only. Subject to approved credit on a Revolving Plan account, a service of John Deere Financial, f.s.b. For consumer use only. No down payment required. Introductory rate of 4.9% APR is for 60 months only, regular Revolving Plan rates will apply after that. The regular Revolving Plan rate, which varies over time, is currently 18.25% APR. Available at participating U.S. dealers. Prices and models may vary by dealer. Offers available on new John Deere Lawn Tractors and in the U.S. only. Prices and savings in U.S. dollars.
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0% APR fixed rate for 60 Months2
X730 Lawn Tractor
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X580 Lawn Tractor
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• 24 hp (17.9 kW)* iTorque™ Power System • Hydrostatic Drive • 54-in. Accel Deep™ Mower Deck
Offer valid on qualifying purchases made between 02 March 2021 to 03 May 2021. Subject to approved credit on a Revolving Plan account, a service of John Deere Financial, f.s.b. For consumer use only. No down payment required. 0% APR for 60 months only, regular Revolving Plan rates will apply after that. The Regular Revolving Plan rate, which varies over time, is currently 18.25% APR. Available at participating U.S. dealers. Prices and models may vary by dealer. Offer available on new equipment only. Prices and savings in U.S. dollars.
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Offer valid on qualifying purchases made between 02 March 2021 to 03 May 2021. Subject to approved installment credit with John Deere Financial, for consumer use only. Down payment may be required. Average down payment is 10%. $16.67 per month for every $1,000 financed. 0% APR for 60 months only. Taxes, freight, setup and delivery charges could increase monthly payment. Available at participating U.S. dealers. Prices and models may vary by dealer. Offer available on new equipment and in the U.S. only. Prices and savings in U.S. dollars.
3