Good News February 2022

February 2021

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GOOD NEWS

February 2022

February 2021

Remember When

Bud and Mary Jane Winterburn determined the halfway point between Chicago and Detroit was Kalamazoo, so they decided to build a restaurant here and call it Half Way House.

They positioned the restaurant, which began as a small coffee shop, conveniently off of the major expressway, I-94, at 3026 Sprinkle Road (exit 80), shortly after I-94 went through this area. At the time, the restaurant was the only thing at the exit, except cornfields. A few years later, General Motors built its Fisher Body plant at that intersection, which was a boon for the business. Since then, more of Cork Street has been developed and an industrial park also sprang up in the area.

The restaurant was open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, offering convenience for those having vehicle maintenance or repairs done at the Half Way Auto Truck Stop next door that was owned by another family member.

The Half Way House Restaurant opened in 1962 and was reminiscent of the old-fashioned 1950’s style diners. Serving wholesome meals at reasonable prices in a family-friendly environment. The offered a variety of food options, including many comfort food choices. A few examples of their daily specials on a 1965 menu include: Seafood Dinner, served with French fries, Cole slaw, roll & coffee for just $1.50 or Filet Mignon with your choice of potato, tossed salad, roll & coffee for just $2.45. Their delicious homemade pie for dessert would only set you back a quarter, or 35¢ served a la mode.

Senior citizens got a break at the Half Way Houses, with a membership card, the “Golden Agers,” who

received a 5% discount.

The restaurant was family operated - aunts, uncles, cousins, sons and fathers all working together. Bud’s father Harry helped oversee the operation and was also the cashier. Due to their popularity, they expanded in every direction over the years before opening a second location in 1972 on Kalamazoo’s west side, just east of another major highway, northbound US-131. Located at 3317 Stadium Dr. and was named Half Way House West. With a second location, they branched out beyond the family to staff both restaurants.

One of the most popular items at the new Stadium Drive location was broasted chicken, touted as “The World’s Finest Eating Chicken,” that was served halved, quartered and was available for take out. Pork Chops from the broaster were also sought after. Other favorite menu items included: sizzler steak, diet plate, spaghetti, hot Reuben sandwich,

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GOOD NEWS

French dip, roast sirloin, roasted turkey, ham steak and friend ocean perch. Homemade soups and chili were offered every day, along with daily specials. Such as Chop Suey and Polish sausage. Breakfast items ranged from steak & eggs to a weight watchers plate. The Stadium Dr. location was open from 7am-10pm, Mon. – Thurs., 7am -4am Fri. & Sat. and Sun. 8am-8pm.

In the beginning, Bud oversaw both restaurants, but turned the actual management over to his junior partners. His son, Tom, was in charge of the original Sprinkle Rd. location, while his nephew, John ran the stadium Drive restaurant.

The new Stadium Drive location also offered a private banquet room that could seat 60 guests comfortably.

Guests could order off the regular menu or they could opt for a catered affair.

Bud grew up in Comstock and served as an Army Captain in World

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Jackie Merriam Information gathered by the Greater Guide, March 1973 and Vanished Kalamazoo.

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War II, before joining the H.J. Heinz Co., for 10 years, becoming the firm’s branch manager in Dallas, TX. He wanted to go into business for himself. He learned a lot about preparing food at Heinz and decided to become a restaurateur and returned to his roots in the Kalamazoo area to do so.

Many fond memories by former customers have shared their rave reviews on the popular Vanished Kalamazoo Facebook page – I’ve included a handful: “The Half Way House Restaurant had some of the best comfort foods” Loved that place, the T-bones and doughnuts were the best!!!” “They had the best burgers.” “Spend many a night there for breakfast after the bars closed!!” “Oh wow…I loved the ½ Way House.

Like Wow!” “I used to stop there nearly every day for pie and coffee.”

“Best Sour Cream Donuts!” Best hot roast beef sandwich ever.” “ Mmmm they had good breakfast.” “ The Best BLT’s and best biscuits & gravy at 2am.” One of my favorite comments: “Our driver’s ed teacher would have us drive there and he’d get a coffee and we’d get sodas – about 1967.”

The Winterburn’s sold to Harry Ryan, who operated the restaurants for 5 years before selling once again and shortly thereafter they closed.

Sadly ending the wonderful Half Way House Restaurant era.

The property has since been the home of three other restaurants: Russ’s, Perkin’s and is now The Crew.

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February 2021

GOOD NEWS

Make Your Brown Thumb Green with Easy-Care Plants for 2022

January can be a bit dreary. One way to brighten it up is to add some fresh green growing plants to your home and office.

What are the benefits of live plants you ask?

One benefit is that plants can boost your mood! Studies have shown that indoor plants improve concentration and reduce stress, thus being a mood booster for homes as well as offices.

Plants also provide fresh, clean air!

They naturally and effectively clean the air you breathe by recycling of the air around them and removing harmful gasses through the process of photosynthesis.

Indoor plants will add beauty to your surroundings. Additionally, growing herbs indoors will provide you with fresh, healthy herbs to cook with all winter long.

A comment I often hear is, “I have a brown thumb.” The best way to turn that thumb green is to try growing easier plant varieties. Four easycare suggestions are to try pothos, sansevieria, succulents and air plants.

If you have space by a window, some easy plants to try are succulents, including Echiveria and String of Pearl varieties. Some tips for succulent success include: avoid deep pots to avoid root rot for their shallow root system. In addition, when watering, make sure at least the first inch of soil is dry. Remember, some neglect is ok for succulents.

Another easy plant that doesn’t need to be in a window is a Sansevieria. These have several names – you may have heard them called Motherin-law tongue or Snake plant. They’re great at cleaning the air and do well in medium-light situations. Be sparing when watering them – the soil should be dry at least an inch down.

It’s fine to let them be root bound

The week after the winter holiday break, my grandson’s were gifted with a “snow day” on the following Thursday. The boys spent Wednesday night at my house and the snow day was called before they went to bed. They hooted and hollered with

too – don’t re-pot them until the plant outgrows the pot. You may want to choose a heavy clay pot for your snake plant so that it doesn’t get top heavy and tip over.

I know this sounds strange, but it is a good idea to wipe it down with a damp cloth once in a while. This will help the plant be able to do its job of photosynthesis efficiently.

Pothos are another plant that you can put in almost any light situation. They may take a slight amount more water, but prefer to get quite dry between watering’s.

Air plants are another fun choice. They will need more light and will appreciate a misting of water daily, but are a perfect choice for new “plant parents”!

No matter which houseplants you choose, they will naturally and effectively clean the air you breathe and liven up your space.

Stop in anytime to visit with Wedel’s plant professionals: they’re glad to help you pick out the perfect plants for any home or office and are ready to answer all your plant care concerns.

Terrie Schwartz Wedel’s Nursery, Florist & Garden Center

excitement when I told them school was cancelled.

Having a snow day brought back memories of my childhood and the elation we felt when we heard school was cancelled.

The excitement was contagious and I was delighted at the prospect of playing in the snow with my grandkids and the neighborhood kids. After all, we got short changed over the holiday break with barely a dusting of snow.

Although the snow day was unexpected, I have since learned that there are superstitious things you can do to increase the chances of a snow day.

Here’s a proven list borrowed from unleashed.bancroftschool.org: • Flush 3 ice cubes down the toilet • Wear your pajamas inside out (for extra strength, also wear backwards.)

• Put a spoon under your pillow • Put snowballs in your freezer (if there is a lack of snow white crayons will work

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just as well) • Place a white colored stuffed animal on your windowsill • Run around the table 5 times • Spin around 13 times to the left & repeat in the opposite direction.

• The Snow Dance: it can be whatever you want!

However, there is one caveat, these myths and traditions only apply if a large snowstorm is already predicted in your area.

As teachers have noted, making a wellthought out lesson plan for the next day guarantees that it will be a snow day.

Students beware of a similar problem with homework: if you don’t do your homework the night before, there is a high chance that the “snowstorm” will either pass you by completely or only create a delay.

May the Snow Gods be with you!

Cover photo courtesy of Bridget Fox, artist.

Jackie Merriam

Graphic Designer: Lauren Ellis Editor and Publisher: Jackie Merriam (269) 217-0977 - goodnews.jackie@gmail.com Like us on Facebook!

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February 2021

Kalamazoo Craft Beverage Week is back so beer, wine, and spirits lovers can mark their calendars for January 29th through February 6th.

The countywide event has occurred annually for over ten years under the name Kalamazoo Beer Week and was recently renamed Kalamazoo Craft Beverage Week in 2020. The modification allowed for the participation of more Kalamazoo makers, adding local distilleries and wineries to join in with the breweries and celebrate the craft beverage industry as a whole.

“This weeklong event is a great way to highlight our local craft beverage makers and partners around Kalamazoo County and encourage both our residents and visitors to enjoy Kalamazoo’s craft beverage scene,” said Dana Wagner, Director of Marketing

and Communications with Discover Kalamazoo, the organization that manages Kalamazoo Craft Beverage

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Week.

“We held a modified version of the event last year with hybrid offerings

like take home pairing kits with a virtual component, but this year we’re looking forward to having more in person and interactive events back which is at the heart of Kalamazoo Craft Beverage Week,” said Wagner.

Some of the past events have included beer and dessert pairings, specialty tap takeovers, spelling bees, make and take classes, and sessions to meet the brewers/makers. Specific events and craft beverage specials for the 2022 event week are posted and continue to grow.

Lodging packages are available on the site now so guests can start planning and book their stay in Kalamazoo for the event week. To stay up to date with the event, visit KalamazooCraftBeverageWeek.com and follow #KBW2022.

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February 2021

GOOD NEWS

In Search of our Super-Powers A Mother and Daughter Adventure Series

Jane: Kalamazoo College, or “K” as it is more familiarly known, perches on Academy Street hill overlooking our downtown.

Exploring this campus is a delightful way to spend any random afternoon or evening. The classically designed buildings are built around the perimeter of an oak-shaded quadrangle sloping down from the stately Stetson Chapel. Anytime we have guests visiting from out of the area, we drive them through the brick streets and walk with them across the “Quad.”

It is a place of serenity and elegance in the city of Kalamazoo that no one should miss seeing.

Over the doorframe of Trowbridge Hall, is an inscribed quote: “The End

of Learning is Gracious Living.”

The idea that education has the purpose to elevate our manner of life, not just our income or our store of knowledge, has been a mainstay of “K” for many years. Beginning in 1974, the college has kept a tradition of naming a random day in the springtime as “The Day of Gracious Living.” To this end, the morning begins with the chapel bells ringing and all classes being cancelled. It is typically a sunny Wednesday in May but no one knows which day until the moment of the cascading chimes. The student body is provided with transportation to a beach along with all the cafeteria food they can eat. Many years ago, Dean and I were those students but we have not forgotten this very important lesson: education is meant to make your life gracious.

Sometimes, that means soaking in

sunshine instead of in work.

Ellen: One morning when I was in 4th grade and Martha in 2nd, dressed in our school uniforms and sleepily crunching cereal, my mom sat down at the table with us and announced that we wouldn’t be going to school that day so we could take off our uniforms.

“What?” Our heads swiveled to look out the window, no snowstorm.

We looked at each other in puzzlement. “Are we sick?”

“No.” My mom shook her head.

“Today is your day of gracious living!”

“Gracious living?” Our cereal got soggy as she explained the concept to us. This seemed a bit too good to be true.

“This isn’t against the rules?” Martha asked suspiciously.

“Nope.” My mom laughed, “You won’t get in trouble.”

“Can we go to the library?”

She laughed again, “Sure, what else do you want to do?”

“The zoo?” Martha’s eyes sparkled.

“Yep, we can go to the zoo.”

The cereal lay completely forgotten in a congealed mess. “Can we get Happy Meals?!”

“Of course!”

As we’ve gotten older, our Day of Gracious Living has also aged appropriately. These days it’s more fancy dark chocolate than Happy Meals, and we tend to book binge at a bookstore instead of the library, but the graciousness is undiminished and it’s still not against the rules. Go ahead, be gracious to yourself.

Jane Knuth and Ellen Radke

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February 2021

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The top books published this month that librarians across the country love

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February 2021

GOOD NEWS

A Cut Above: Collecting Gingher Designer Scissors A In 1947, the Gingher family of Greensboro, North Carolina began manufacturing dressmakers shears.

In time the company added embroidery scissors and other instruments to their product line. Gingher also manufactures trimmers, rotary cutters, quilting rulers, and additional tools suitable for crafts and industrial applications.

By 1965, Gingher’s superlative engineering standards had garnered worldwide recognition for their products. Gingher, Inc. was acknowledged as the premier line of cutting implements for home sewing, crafts, needlework, and industry. These elite tools became treasured items, often B passed down from generation to pean company established in 1649. Its generation. headquarters are in Helsinki, Finland.

Gingher believes that their sucGingher continues to maintains their cess is due to a tradition of superior location in Greensboro, North Carocraftsmanship. Using a centuries old lina. However, most of their scissors method, Gingher technicians forge are now made in Italy and Taiwan. scissors and shears from high carbon Since 1999 Gingher has released cutlery steel. Hand grinding and a line of Designer Scissors, consistpolishing guarantees precision cutting ing of at least one new handle print for the entire length of the blade. each year. Starting with Audrey, Rosa, Hand-tuned tension points promise and Victoria in 1999, and continulongevity and superlative perforing through 2021’s Rynn, Ginger has mance.

To maintain Gingher’s exacting stan- released dozens of unique patterns.

The Designer line comes in a variety dards, quality control inspects each finished cutting tool. Gingher’s com- of sizes. They are the 8” Dressmakers Shears in Left and Right handed mitment to quality has made them variations, the 5” Sewing Scissors, and the brand most used in American fiber and textile industries. Gingher’s the 4” Embroidery Scissors. (Not all attention to detail ensures the superi- designs come in all sizes.) These Designer Scissors have become popular ority of Gingher cutting tools. with collectors who appreciate both In 2005, Fiskars Corporation, their craftsmanship and their beauty. bought Gingher. Fiskars is a Euro-

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the fitted sheath that comes with each pair. * Insert pins outside the cutting area to avoid cutting into them and damaging the scissors. * Wipe the blade surfaces to keep them lint free. Add a small drop of household oil at the assembly point to retain smooth cutting action. * Apply a light coat of oil on the scissors’ blades and edges to prevent rust if you live or work in a humid environment, or intend to store them for a period of time.

A pair of prototype “Victoria” (never released for sale to the public, with the design on the blade as well as the handles) recently sold for close to $250. Other sought-after patterns include “Laurel” (a pair of 8” selling for $140), and “Elena” (a pair of 4” selling for $180).

Maintenance Tips From Gingher: * Gingher designer scissors are intended for fabric and thread. Never use on paper or other materials. * To avoid damage to the blade setting, never force a cut if you sense resistance. You may have the wrong tool for the task, or your scissors or shears may require sharpening or repair.

* Gingher offers sharpening and repair service for all their products.

With proper care, Gingher Designer Scissors and Shears can give years of faultless cutting. At the same time, they will provide enjoyment of their beauty and appreciation for their engineering and design.

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February 2021

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Relationship Reality Check

In an instant gratification world, we want everything to look or sound the way we play it in our minds. Our minds may paint us a picture-perfect setting, however, in reality, nothing or no one is perfect. We may have fond memories of what we would consider being perfect encounters, conversations, or evenings. Although that is our perception, the deeper question would be do our partners or friends look at that event in the same light?

We may be holding too high of expectations for those that we love.

In our minds, if we can do certain things, then everyone can. Check yourself. Not everyone functions the same way and works off of the same

energy level. What may be doable for one, may seem impossible for the other person.

In every relationship communication is the key. At the beginning of a relationship, there are stars around every corner shining brightly on the person that we are growing to love.

No one is perfect, guards come down and true colors show. However, in our minds, we may have created a relationship to look so much different than what it is. It is important to check in with your person. What are your expectations in this relationship? Check-in with yourself too.

What are the expectations that you can let go and what are some that

you won’t compromise? Boundaries in any relationship are important and communicating your needs, wants, and desires is only going to enhance your relationship. No person has a crystal ball. To ensure you are getting out of the relationship what you believe you are giving; it is important to do check-ins and bring honesty to the table. Be prepared during your check-ins to find that while you may be painting that perfect picture of the relationship in your head, your partner could have a very different scene playing in their mind.

Assuming that your partner has the same expectations that you have should never happen. You know what they say about assuming. Try for a weekly or daily check-in within your relationships. Include your children in the check-ins if you have children. What are your expectations of today, the week, the upcoming weekend? What would you like to

accomplish? Do you feel like your expectations are doable or do you feel that they are too overwhelming?

Let everyone have an opportunity to respond during the check-ins for everyone’s voice to be heard. When communicating your wants, needs, desires and expectations make sure that you use paraphrasing in your communication to ensure you are all on the same page. You could do a check-in and still your picture may represent your ideas. Paraphrasing will allow the other person or people to be able to respond whether that is what they were actually saying or if it was just the perception within your mind. Paraphrasing also shows active listening and checking in allows everyone to understand the expectations within the relationship or family.

Julie Sorenson MA., LPC., Doctoral Candidate

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February 2021

GOOD NEWS

Parenting

Children being raised by grandparents Many grandparents across the country are raising their grandchildren for a variety of reasons. It can be taxing and stressful when grandparents take on the obligation to love their grandchildren and take over the responsibilities that their parents have given up. There are many reasons why grandparents step up and take care of their grandchildren. Grandparents may take over the role because their grandchild’s parents struggle with mental health, substance abuse, or incarceration.

Giving your grandchildren a sense of safety and security is important.

While it may be stressful, your grandchildren will feel the ease of

adjustment in your home when you provide predictability. Routines such as mealtime, bedtime, and other outside activities will assist in letting the children know what to expect. Setting boundaries and allowing them to help make some in-house rules along with practicing positive reinforcement and consistency will allow the flow to go so much easier for all of you. You are opening your home and welcoming the children in from a potentially traumatic experience.

When they feel safe and able to communicate with you, it will make the experience a more positive one.

Find activities for you to do together that build your relationships. When you are taking the time to nurture your relationship you are allowing the children to feel secure and happy. Since today’s youth live in a virtual world, becoming familiar with what your grandchildren are doing online can assist in healthy screen time activity. I recommend https://protectyoungeyes.com/ to assist you in navigating through the ever-changing virtual world.

While you and your grandchild may bond over a virtual game, make

sure that they are participating in real-world experiences as well. Ask about after-school activities that may support your grandchild’s social and physical health. Your grandchild may be interested in sports, lego clubs, drama, or music activity. Supporting their interest will bring you closer and tighten your bond. Volunteering is a great activity to give back to the community and fun to do together.

Physical activity and in-person social experience will encourage leading a healthy lifestyle.

Of course, raising your grandchild is a special and unique opportunity.

However, it isn’t always easy and there will be bumps in the road as you navigate your new lifestyle. Make sure to take time for yourself. If you are feeling stressed, try finding a support group for grandparents. Reach

out to a mental health professional if you need help or ideas on navigating your stress. Make priorities that will eliminate unnecessary stress in your life, and have your grandchild help with tasks in the home.

Making sure that you have resources to help support you is important. Here is a link to resources in Michigan that may assist you if you are struggling with any needs https://www.grandfamilies.org/Portals/0/Michigan%20GrandFacts%20 State%20Fact%20Sheet%202021%20 Update_1.pdf. Remember to take one day at a time and enjoy the little things because practicing gratitude supports a happier, healthier life.

Julie Sorenson, Doctoral Candidate, MA., LPC

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February 2021

The Children’s Nature Playscape on Bronson Park is developing a green space that will become a nature park for the children of Kalamazoo at 302 A Academy Street. Nature playscapes are play spaces with as few manmade components as possible. Using native plants, rolling hills, water features and trees, these playscapes try to create a sense of nature like play in a field or forest. Remember those days of running freely down a hill, stopping to discover the wild strawberries then plopping down to smell the grass and look at the birds that have decided to join you that have perched on a nearby tree? This is what urban playscapes attempt to do, bring nature to children and their families who may have limited access to nature.

While Bronson Park has been Kalamazoo’s public gathering space and “front lawn” for the past 175 years, there is limited space for children to experience play in a natural setting.

Some have said we have a “nature play gap”. We can help address this by creating and promoting the use of natural areas such as that proposed with the Children’s Nature Playscape.

“Our goal is to provide a safe and accessible space that serves young children of all abilities and socioeconomic backgrounds with a place to play and explore — a space that allows them to interact freely and creatively with the natural world,” said Jody Brylinsky, Children’s Nature Playscape Steering Committee chair.

Playscapes offer a wide range of developmental benefits to children including improved concentration

and impulse control, emotional coping, and stress reduction. Improving child development, critical skills, and health leads to enhanced opportunities for better socioeconomic outcomes. The Children’s Nature Playscape is being constructed within walking distance of Kalamazoo’s public transit hub and adjacent to five of Kalamazoo’s most diverse neighborhoods. The 10-block radius around Bronson Park serves approximately 1,500 children and reaches into lowincome areas.

While it may not seem essential with an ongoing COVID pandemic, the unique needs of children mandate specialized and appropriate planning for recovery. Since this pandemic has been overwhelming to everyone, especially to children, outdoor play can provide a way to ease the stress and anxiety from the separation from school, family, and friends.

The Children’s Nature Playscape is a project of the First Congregational Church of Kalamazoo, providing initial funding to purchase the property and proceed with the necessary site

GOOD NEWS

preparation. An independent nonprofit Community Steering Committee directs the development and operation of the Children’s Nature Playscape. Under the expert oversight of our design team O’Boyle, Cowell, Blalock and Associates (OCBA) of Kalamazoo led by Sandy Bliesener, Rachel Hughes-Nilsson and Deborah Dawe, we began the process of gathering input for the playscape from the community in October 2019. That input has now evolved into our desired playscape design. A robust fundraising strategy was then put into motion that continues to secure funds from local foundations, philanthropic organizations and generous community members who believe in the value of nature and investing in the welfare of children who live in downtown Kalamazoo.

In the fall of 2021, a contract was signed with Only Outdoor Living, led by James Whitaker to begin the process of transforming the current 130’ X 130’ greenspace at 302 Academy Street in a nature inspired space for children. There will be

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l A specia l the specia gift for l pe in your l ople ife

ADA accommodations throughout the playscape, along with a program platform for educational activities, raised planter beds so children can learn about food sources, and Portland Loo restroom. A sensory garden will allow children to explore the sounds of a hanging wood xylophone and fence chimes, smell fragrant flowers, and explore plant textures.

This will also be a unique habitat for songbirds. Priority will be given to plants, shrubs, and grasses that are native to west Michigan, especially those with cultural significance to the Match-E-Be-Nash-She-Wish Band of Pottawatomi Indians.

Materials have been ordered and construction of phase one will begin in Feb. 2022, weather permitting, with a planned opening in summer 2022. We will begin phase two of construction when sufficient funds have been raised, hopefully by Fall 2022. Individuals or organizations wanting to get involved in the playscape are encouraged to visit Kalamazooplayscape.org to find out how to volunteer, schedule a program, make an in-kind donation of materials, or provide a financial donation.

The Playscape is in need of everyone’s time, talents and resources to bring this special resource to the community.

It is easy to show you care about the children of Kalamazoo by making a tax-deductible donation online at: Kalamazooplayscape.org - or - write a check to “Children’s Nature Playscape”, and mail it to: C/O FCC, 345 W. Michigan Ave. Kalamazoo, MI 49007.

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February 2021

Mazen Ahmad and I are good friends. Friendship comes easy with him. Yes, one quickly recognizes there is something (actually, many things) special about Mazen.

Mazen owns Bab el Salam Restaurant on Centre in Portage across the street from Portage City Hall. Bab el Salam means “Gate of Peace.” A better name may have been Bab el Saddaka al Haqiqua—”Gate of True Friendship.”

Mazen grew up in the city of Rammun, in Palestine. When he graduated from high school, Mazen applied for admission to colleges in Russia, Saudi Arabia, and the United States (Eastern Michigan University) to study engineering. He was accepted by all three.

Required to learn both English and German to graduate from high school, Mazen’s English was rudimentary but passable. He and his friends worked on their conversational English by engaging with American tourists in Jerusalem answering questions and helping people find their way.

Mazen chose Eastern Michigan University for his college studies and left his homeland to come to Amer-

11

ica. His first stop was New York and he fell in love with the city. New York became his home and he never made it to EMU. He became a U.S. citizen in 1989.

Mazen’s culinary career began with his first job working in New York deli’s on 7th Avenue—the Fashion District. There, he got to know taxi drivers who came for lunch and they encouraged him to become a cab driver. He quickly learned to navigate the city’s streets and traffic. A few years later, he drove limousines.

Seeking a less frenetic lifestyle, Mazen left New York and settled in Canada near Niagara Falls. With his driving experience he became a school bus driver.

What brought Mazen and his family to Kalamazoo was a longtime friendship he had developed prior to coming to America. An Episcopal Rector, Father Fish, visited Palestine for several extended stays and the two became friends. Mazen says he and Father Fish remained close and Mazen and his family traveled to Kalamazoo to visit his friend from time to time. He encouraged Mazen to move to Kalamazoo. And, as Mazen says, Kalamazoo just felt right.

GOOD NEWS

It didn’t take long for Mazen to be hired as a Kalamazoo Public Schools bus driver. However, one afternoon Mazen got a call from “BFI.” His heart sank; he must be in trouble. It took a few minutes, but he realized it wasn’t the “FBI” but rather BFI, the waste management company in Kalamazoo, who offered him a driving job and a pay raise. Mazen took the job.

All along, Mazen’s family and friends encouraged him to open a Middle Eastern restaurant. Mazen says it took courage, hard work, and many ups and downs, but that is exactly what he did. Bab el Salam opened in 2016 offering authentic Middle Eastern, Mediterranean, and Halal food. Bab el Salam also provides catering and take-out.

Adjoining the restaurant is a Middle Eastern grocery store called Amo Mazen Grocery. Amo means “uncle” in Arabic. Mazen acquired this affectionate moniker from wait staff and employees over the years and it stuck.

And while the food is indeed wonderful, what’s truly special about Bab el Salam is the kindness, generosity, and warmth one immediately experi-

Love What YouLove Do. What Love What Love You YouWhere Do. Do. YouLove Work.

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• Residential Support Dir ec t Staff Supp ort • Full Partect Time Dir Su p po rt Pr and ofessional • Flexible Hours Positions Pr of es si on a l • Tuition F ull and Pa rt Ti me P os it i on s Reimbusement F lex ible Hours Fu l l an d P art T ime • Training Tuition and Support Provided Fl ex ib l e Hou rs Reimbursement Tra ining T uiand t io n $500 Sign Bonus S upport Pr ovide d Re imb u rs emen t Starting at $15.30/hr

T rai n in g an d S u pp o rt P ro vi d ed

ences. The first time a person walks in, it’s as a customer. From then on, it’s as a friend of Mazen and Bab el Salam. All one needs to do is go and say hello to Mazen but he will probably say hello first and welcome you at your table. The genuine personal connection Mazen has a knack of sparking is more memorable than any fancy meal I’ve ever had at any restaurant.

Mazen’s friendship extends far beyond his customers. He is proud of the young people he hires and treats like his own. Mazen shared a touching text message he received from one of his employees who moved to northern Michigan. The message reads, “Hey I just wanted to tell you thank you for taking a chance on me all those years ago. As I am applying for jobs up in Traverse City I have realized how many skills I learned working at Bab el Salam…”

So, stop by for some Bab el Salam’s Lentil Soup and a cup of Amo Mazen Tea and see for yourself what a rare and remarkable dining experience exists in our community.

James D. Coppinger

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February 2021

Opens at Kalamazoo Valley Museum Bring a child or rediscover the child within yourself at the new “Toys II: Inside Story” exhibit opening Jan. 22 at the Kalamazoo Valley Museum in downtown Kalamazoo. You’ll also learn the history of toys throughout the ages, as you reminisce and play with toys of days gone by.

The free exhibit features 20 play/ learn stations and displays that illustrate the simple mechanisms commonly found in toys, letting visitors create their own toy-like combinations of gears, pulleys, linkages, cams and circuits. It runs through May 1.

“Toys II” was developed by the

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Montshire Museum of Science and TEAMS Collaborative, with funding from the National Science Foundation.

If your parents never let you break open your Etch A Sketch to find out how it works, or if you’ve been wondering how to stop your toddler’s push toy from making such an infernal racket, you’ll love this exhibit!

Exhibit highlights • Get a close-up look at the mechanisms that make popular toys work • Play gigantic versions of Operation and Etch A Sketch

•

Create your own toy-like combinations of gears, pulleys, linkages, cams and circuits • Unmask the amazing collection of switches, cams and motors that make Elmo dance and Mr. Machine run.

For more information, visit kalamazoomuseum.org. The museum is operated by Kalamazoo Valley Community College at 230 N. Rose St. in downtown Kalamazoo. It is now open for limited hours, Tuesday through Saturday 10 - 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 - 3 p.m. General admission is free.

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February 2021

GOOD NEWS

be ART ful Ahhh, love. No matter how you say it, feel it or show it, it translates universally. February does a blue-ribbon job at promoting itself as the ideal heart themed month. And as the symbol for love, this heart will have you bursting with it.

Did you know Pointillism is a painting technique in which small individual dots of color are applied to form images? This style was developed in 1886, following the Impressionist period and is still considered one of the most progressive and influential art movements of the era.

This month, I am going to teach you how to produce your own Pointillism style painting using this well known and beloved dotted art method. With love being the subject of our artwork, this would make an ideal family or small group project to do together. So let’s get started creating our inspirational work of heART! Supplies needed: canvas . acrylic paints . contact paper . alphabet stickers . cotton swabs . pencil . scissors . paintbrush Step 1. First paint the whole canvas a very pale pink. An easy way to create pink is to mix red with white.

While the canvas is drying, make a heart stencil out of contact paper, also known as shelf liner. Cut a piece to the size of your canvas and then fold in half. Draw a half heart and cut out.

Unfold, peel the backing and stick your stencil directly onto the center of the canvas. I used an 11 by 14 inch canvas board.

Step 2. Dip your cotton swab in red paint first and create a dotted border around the heart stencil. Using a second cotton swab, dot pink into the red border and expand out onto the canvas. Add a lighter pink with another cotton swab and extend the border out even further. To get more of a starburst effect, concentrate the dots in the center around the border of the stencil and lessen them as you move towards the edges of the canvas.

Step 3. When the paint is dry, remove your heart stencil. Using alphabet stickers, position the word LOVE in the center of the heart. You now have a work of art with heart!

Use your own creativity to choose other color combinations and various sized canvases. Instead of stickers, try free-hand painting or use a marker to

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write your word, letter stencils would be great to try too! This would also be a heart-happy project for kids to participate in. They could make their own Valentine’s Day cards by painting onto blank note cards. So many ideas come to mind, but it’s always up to you to get as artistic and innovative as you would like. Don’t forget, when you create what you love, others will love what you create.

Lastly, a favorite quote of mine that

I strive to live by: “Do what you love, love what you do, and with all your heart give yourself to it.” ― Roy T. Bennett Happy heart making! xo ~Bridget Email: bridgetfoxkzoo@gmail.com Social: https://www.instagram.com/ bridgetfoxkzoo

February 2021

Piece by Piece 14

Life is like a quilt…years bound together. Embellished with family and friends. Backed with tradition, stitched with love. With cornerstones placed carefully to create a one-ofa-kind journey through time. – Kaye Moore Hello and happy February dear readers! Though I am writing to each of you in early January in anticipation of your readership in the month that symbolizes love, I find myself reflecting on the joy of the last few weeks.

The joy of spending time with family and friends as we each added happy, wonder-filled, and grateful puzzle piece moments to the pictures of our lives.

One puzzle piece moment added was time spent with a dear pen-pal friend and her mom, who I’ve been blessed to know since I was a little

girl. Oh, how I loved to visit our neighbor (my friend’s mom) each Halloween eagerly anticipating the opening of the door to be greeted by a witch! One wonders if my friend’s mom always dressing up was what inspired my mom to do so to this day!

I write of puzzle piece moments; I should be writing about the stitching of moments instead. For my friend’s mom has stitched together the most breathtaking quilts. Maybe it is the making of the quilts that represents the threads that weave the story of her life. Or maybe it is the beautiful stitches that connect her with her children, grandchildren, nieces, cousins, neighbors, and friends that communicate the story of her life in the spectacular designs she has made.

The first stiches of this dear quilt maker’s life began nearly ninety-seven

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years ago. The first quilt was created fifty plus years ago. Her hands – and her heart – creating long before fabric and threads met together to create the first quilt that would wrap a niece in physical warmth. And love.

Embroidery, cooking and baking, holding the hand of the one she would say I do too. Mentally taking notes of the way the quilt maker’s own mom made her first quilt, writing letters, holding each of her three children in her arms. Yes, she began stitching the moments and people that make up the story of her life long before she began making each of them a keepsake of her talent. And her heart.

I have been blessed to be the recipient of one of this quilt maker’s works of art. A beautiful table runner, versatile in use for the Fall on one

GOOD NEWS

side, and the Christmas season on the other. I am blessed to be the recipient in friendship with one of this quilt maker’s finest creations. Like her mom, my friend and I are stitching a pattern of the moments of our lives through our letters and cards. We are hand-sewing through our handwriting – never typing – the threads of enjoyment, companionship, reminiscence, wisdom, encouragement, and celebration.

I admire a wall hanging in the quilt maker’s home that depicts three homes. A snapshot of connected walls, each uniquely their own color, yet each unified through common threading. Threaded by hand, by heart. By love.

Christine Hassing Author, Life-Story Writer/Mentor, Speaker

15

February 2021

GOOD NEWS

HEALTH QUIZ TIME Believe it or not, I actually have readers ask me as to when the next quiz issue will be. Never being one to disappoint, I’m glad to bring it back.

By the way, the quiz comes from a publication called Nutrition Action, published by the Center for Science in the Public Interest, in case you’d like to check it out. Don’t be surprised if some of the questions seem difficult. They’re meant to challenge and educate you at the same time.

Good Luck!

1. A daily serving of which food is MOST likely to result in weight gain? (Each has around 100 calories.) a. Cheddar cheese b. Banana

c. ½ cup beans

d. 1 cup quinoa

e. 1 cup spaghetti

5. A deficiency of which vitamin can lead to dementia?

e. Orange juice

2. A daily serving of which food is LEAST likely to lower LDL (bad) cholesterol? a. Oatmeal

c. Vitamin B-12

c. Lox (smoked salmon)

e. Vitamin D

e. Tuna salad

b. Vitamin B-6

b. Deli sliced turkey breast

d. Vitamin C

d. Uncured beef franks

6. Coffee drinkers have a lower risk of all but one of these. Which one? f. Liver cancer

i. Heart disease

7. Antibiotics can treat which one of these infections? a. Colds b. Flu

b. Black beans

c. Covid-19

c. Walnuts

8. A daily serving of which food is LEAST likely to raise the risk of colon cancer? a. Uncured bacon

h. Type 2 diabetes

d. Vanilla yogurt

e. E-coli

a. Vitamin A

g. Parkinson’s disease

c. White bread

d. Urinary tract infections

9. Which food can interfere with many medicines? a. Oat milk

b. Coconut milk

c. Grapefruit juice d. Grape juice e. Applesauce

10. Which restaurant dish is MOST likely to have fewer than 1,200 calories? a. Kung Pao chicken b. Lasagna

c. Chicken pad Thai

d. 95% lean ground beef e. Mayonnaise

3. A daily serving of which food is MOST likely to help keep you regular?

a. Whole grain wheat bread b. Bran flakes c. Apple

d. Broccoli

e. Fiber gummies

4. Which of these has the LEAST amount of protein? a. 1 egg

b. 1oz. cream cheese

d. Moussaka

e. Tandoori chicken

Answers 1. Orange juice. The calories in liquids don’t curb your appetite as much as solid food.

2. 95% lean ground beef. The fiber in oatmeal and beans lower LDL (bad) cholesterol.

3. Bran flakes have more fiber (7 grams) per serving than the other foods.

4. Cream cheese. A serving has 2 grams of protein.

5. Vitamin B-12. Older people may have too little stomach acid to absorb naturally occurring B-12.

6. Heart disease. Coffee drinkers also have a lower risk of type 2 diabetes and liver cancer.

7. UTI’s. Antibiotics don’t kill viruses (colds, Covid, or flu).

8. Tuna salad. People who consume 2 oz. a day of processed meats have an 18 percent higher risk of colon cancer.

9. Grapefruit juice. It interferes with the enzyme that metabolizes about half of all medicines.

10. Kung Pao chicken has about 1150 calories.

How’d you do?

0-2 Oh my!

3-5 Hope you learned a lot.

6-8 Impressive!

9-10 Refrigerator magnet material.

MAKE it a great day and remember to be kind.

Till next time Ken Dettloff ACE Certified Personal and Brain Health Trainer.

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February 2021

Recipes Treat your sweetie to something special this year by whipping up a homemade Valentine treat!

With studies* showing that smiling can lift our spirits and boost our immune system, we all need to find ways to add smiles to our day, especially with covid still hanging around.

Since smiles are so important for health’s sake, I turned to a cheery resource -cupcake connoisseur, Stefani Pollack!

Based in Saint Louis, Missouri, Pollack has baked her way into a career as a dessert blogger and social influencer.

“I›ve loved to bake since I was a little girl,” she revealed in an online interview, “but I didn›t get serious about baking until my 30s.”

Sparked by a dinner conversation

Valentine Sweets! that occurred in early 2006, Pollack soon found herself stirring up something new.

“Some good friends were trying to decide where to buy cupcakes for their wedding. I surprised myself, and others at the table, by offering to bake for them (I had never baked a cupcake before – ever!) and my friends surprised me by accepting!”

With a wedding date of December 31, 2007, Pollack had nine months to learn to bake wedding-worthy cupcakes.

“I baked a new cupcake for them every week,” she said, “then let them choose their three favorites for their big day.”

This foray into the world of cupcakes pushed Pollack to put what she was baking on the world’s stage.

“It is because of them that I started my blog, and I am forever grateful that they let me bake their cupcakes!”

Loving homey desserts with seasonal flavors - crumb cakes, cobblers,

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baked goods she’s added along the way, here now is a special sampling from Pollack to help to spread more smiles around your house this Valentine’s Day. Enjoy! *= https:/www.nbcnews.com/ better/health/smiling-can-trickyour-brain-happiness-boost-yourhealth-ncna822591 Laura Kurella is an award-winning journalist, recipe developer, and selfsyndicated newspaper food columnist who enjoys living in Northern Michigan. She welcomes comments at laurakurella@yahoo.com.

Smooth, creamy, and – unlike most other varieties – it’s also SO easy to make!

Prep Time10 mins; Cook Time: 1 hr. 5 mins; Total Time: 1 hr. 15 mins.

Servings: 12 24 ounces cream cheese room temperature 1 cup granulated sugar 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/4 cup all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 5 large eggs room temperature 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream room temperature Preheat the oven to 400 degrees.

Mix cream cheese, sugar, salt, and flour together in a large mixing bowl until smooth. There should be no lumps in the batter. Mix in vanilla.

Mix in eggs, one at a time, until fully combined. Mix in heavy whipping cream until fully combined. Line a 9” cake pan or springform pan with

parchment paper, completely covering the bottom and sides of the pan.

Use butter on the paper and pan to help it stick to the pan. Smooth out any creases as best you can. (There will always be some creases remaining and that adds to the rustic look of the cake.)

Pour batter into lined pan. Bang pan on counter a few times to bring any air bubbles up to surface.

Bake for 50 minutes then increase oven temperature to 425 degrees and bake for another 15 minutes, or until the top of the cake looks almost burnt. Cool to room temperature and then chill in refrigerator overnight.

When ready to serve, remove cake from pan and peel off or cut back parchment so it isn’t visible.

Notes: Cheesecake lasts up to one week in refrigerator or for several months in airtight container in freezer.

Laura Kurella Photos courtesy of Jonathan Pollack.

Recipes and photos courtesy of Stefani Pollack.

Basque Cheesecake

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upside-down cakes, and crispy butter cookies are some of her favoritesPollack soon found success with her little cupcakes that could!

“My recipes have been featured in Huffington Post and Buzzfeed, Parade Magazine, Paula Deen, Chowhound, Cooking and AllRecipes, and my Instagram account (@ cupcakeproject) has nearly a million followers!”

Teaching baking classes, speaking at PR, and blogging conferences, and co-founding Build Digital Marketing, a company that helps brands grow, through it all Pollack has remained true to what drove her to bake in the first place.

“I love bringing joy to friends and family by sharing my baked goods with them. It makes me so happy when I hear about people trying my recipes and sharing them with their loved ones.”

Spreading smiles with her little cupcakes that could, along with other

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February 2021

Recipes honey buns

These honey buns are perfectly fluffy with a cinnamon sugar interior and a sticky, sweet topping. They are irresistible served warm right out of the oven!

coffee cookies

If you love coffee, I have the perfect cookie for you! My coffee cookies are crispy, buttery, and have an intense coffee flavor. They are easy to make and totally addictive! Plus, they make great holidays gifts.

Yield: 48 cookies

GOOD NEWS

Valentine Sweets!

Prep Time: 30 mins.; Cook Time: 35 mins.; Rise Time: 2 hrs.; Total Time: 3 hrs., 5 mins. Servings: 12 3 3/4 cups all-purpose flour 1/2 teaspoon salt 2 1/4 teaspoons instant yeast one 1/4-ounce package 1 cup whole milk slightly warmed (110-115 degrees) 1/4 cup unsalted butter melted 2 large eggs 1/4 cup honey 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Topping 1/2 cup honey 1/4 cup light brown sugar 1/4 cup unsalted butter 1 cup chopped pecans Filling 1/4 cup light brown sugar 1/2 cup granulated sugar 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon 1 1/2 teaspoons ground nutmeg 6 tablespoons unsalted butter melted To make dough: In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the dough hook, mix flour, salt, and yeast. Add

the remaining ingredients and mix for about four minutes on high speed until dough starts to slap the side of the bowl as it moves around. It will be a little wet and sticky. Remove the dough from the bowl and place it on a lightly floured surface. Knead by hand until it comes together into a smooth ball. Add a tablespoon more flour at a time only if needed to make the dough come together. Grease a large bowl (I clean the mixer bowl that I just used). Place the dough ball into the greased bowl, cover it, and set it in a warm place to rise until doubled in size - about one hour.

To make Topping: While the dough is rising, place the honey, brown sugar, and butter into a small saucepan on medium-high heat. Stir until the butter and sugar melts and dissolves into the honey. Pour the topping into the bottom of a greased 9x13» baking dish. Sprinkle chopped pecans evenly over the topping.

To make Filling: Mix sugars, cinnamon, and nutmeg together in a small bowl.

To make Rolls: Punch risen dough down and roll out on a lightlyfloured surface or large silicone mat to a rectangle about 12x18». Brush rolled out dough with melted butter, leaving a small border around the edges of the dough. Sprinkle the spiced sugar mixture evenly over the butter. Roll dough from the long side to make a log. Cut off the ends of the log if they aren›t even. Then, cut the log into twelve even slices. Place the slices cut side down on the topping in the baking pan, evenly spacing them.

There will be space between the buns at this point since they haven›t risen yet. Cover the pan and make sure to let the buns rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about one hour.

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Bake for 35 minutes or until the buns are golden brown. Let the pan sit on a cooling rack for five minutes and then immediately invert onto a serving plate. Serve warm.

Notes: I use a Rapid Rise/Instant yeast. Regular yeast takes longer to rise.

1 cup unsalted butter room temperature 1 cup granulated sugar 2 tablespoons instant coffee 1 large egg 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1/2 teaspoon salt 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour In a medium-sized bowl, cream the butter, sugar, and instant coffee until light and fluffy. Mix in the egg.

Mix in the vanilla extract, salt, and flour until fully combined. Divide the dough in half and press each half into a flat disc. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for four hours or overnight. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

Roll out the cold dough on a lightly floured counter or silicone mat to about 1/8” thick (no need to break out your ruler) and cut with cookie cutters or the rim of a glass. I used 2 1/2” fluted cookie cutters in calculating the yield. Transfer cut cookies to cookie sheets and bake for 10 minutes or until the edges just start to brown. (Sometimes it can be tough to transfer the cut-out cookie dough

to the cookie sheet. To help with this, roll the dough out on a silicone mat and place the whole mat with the cut-out cookies into the freezer for just a few minutes before transferring it.) Immediately transfer to a cooling rack to cool. Store in a non-sealed

container Notes: If you roll the dough thicker (1/4” instead of 1/8”), the cookies will still be crispy on the outside and softer on the inside. Espresso powder can be used in place of instant coffee by cutting amount in half.

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February 2021

By the Way...

“ the story of fannie lillian ballou ” The evening of February 27, 1921, Fannie Lillian Ballou, from Kalamazoo, boarded a train to return home after a weekend birthday celebration for her mother in Wheaton, Illinois.

Fannie, thirty-four and single, was a teacher. Her teaching began in a one-room school near Wheaton. She continued her education attending college in Illinois and in New York at Teachers College at Columbia Uni-

versity. From Columbia she accepted a teaching position at Western State Normal School (now WMU) in 1914.

Fannie loved teaching, children, nature, and Kalamazoo.

Bound from Chicago, the train rolled through Porter, Indiana—a small village tucked among sandy dunes. There, two rail lines cross and despite all the engineering and safeguards, two trains collided in the night at the crossing.

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GOOD NEWS Thirty-seven people were killed—including Fannie.

Following her death, Western State Normal suspended school for a week in Fannie’s honor and a Fannie Ballou Scholarship was established. Four weeks later, a commemoration took place at Western State and the school newspaper, The Western Herald, wrote: “A beautiful picture, entitled ‘The Signing of the Declaration of Independence,’ has been presented to Western State Normal School by Masters Lewis and William Kirby, in memory of Miss Fannie Ballou, second grade critic teacher, who was so dearly loved by these little children.”

Now, one hundred years later, it’s doubtful anyone remembers or knows the names of those killed that tragic evening—except for one name—Fannie Lillian Ballou. What preserves Fannie’s memory is a modest hard-cover book, published in 1922 by her mother, Lillian E. Ballou. Just 700 copies were printed for family and friends.

Several years ago, browsing an antique store in Galesburg, I came across

a copy and thumbing through a few pages, I had to purchase it—copy No. 202. The book also contained two loose photographs and an illustrated pencil portrait of Fannie. I have no idea if these items were included with the original publication or tucked in this copy by a previous owner.

The brilliance of this well-written and touching tribute to Fannie is that Fannie’s mother was successful in her desire to preserve “a story of the happy girlish life she led and the camaraderie which existed between us…” far beyond the transient reach of memories.

This book was no small task. In the 1920s, book publishing was the domain of huge publishing houses and small, limited editions were out of the question. Nevertheless, Lillian’s determination to write this memoir led her to self-publish. Now, in the age of computers and technology, selfpublishing is flourishing and growing.

Lillian E. Ballou was well ahead of her time.

Where the other 699 copies of the book are, who knows. Fortunately, one or two copies are held in the Western Michigan University Archives.

And so it is today, because of a mother’s love and her little book, the story of her daughter, Fannie Lillian Ballou from Kalamazoo, continues its reach and journey still further in time.

Perhaps “there’s a book in you” that needs to be written.

James D. Coppinger

19

February 2021

GOOD NEWS

Sunrise/Sunset

One of the simple pleasures of the winter months in Michigan is the beauty of the sunrises and sunsets.

Each day holds the possibility of a double treat. I’m grateful that I do not have to get up early to enjoy the vibrant reds, oranges, and purples that herald the dawn, and since the Sun sets so early, it is easy to witness nature’s “last call” for daylight. To those of you who have followed my writings over time, it should not be any surprise that the pleasure of these daily phenomena got me thinking.

Most parents have had their children ask the question, “Why is the sky blue?” Two factors play vital roles in the explanation: the position of the Sun relative to the Earth and the scattering of light. Human eyes perceive light rays in the visible range of the electromagnetic spectrum. Remember ROY-G-BIV from your school days?

It’s a simple way to remember the order of colors in a rainbow of light passed through a prism. Red, the “R” in ROY, has the longest wavelength, and violet, the “V” in BIV, has the shortest. During the day, sunlight enters Earth’s atmosphere. The shorter wavelengths of the spectrum, blue and violet, are intercepted by nitrogen and oxygen, its predominant gas molecules, along with water vapor, particles of dust, and other debris. The waves strike these tiniest of obstacles and no longer travel in a straight line. Instead, they are deflected and diffused in many directions. This phenomenon is

A

known as scattering. Shorter wavelengths of light scatter more than longer wavelengths. Because, during the day, the path of sunlight is more directly above Earth’s surface, more light of short wavelength scatters, making the sky, to our eyes, appear blue. That’s a pretty complicated answer to a very simple question, so please forgive yourself if you answered your little one, “Just because it is.”

The above science lesson sets up the explanation for why we see the beautiful colors of longer length, warmer hues as the Sun rises and sets. As the Earth rotates around its axis and the Sun maintains its stationary position, mornings and evenings receive the Sun’s light at less direct angles. That makes sense because the harsh rays that tan (or burn) our skin, those in the ultraviolet (even shorter wavelength), are less likely to cause damage in the early morning or evening.

Because of the change in angle as the light enters the atmosphere, it travels farther to reach the surface. With the longer distance, more of the shorter blue and violet wavelengths scatter higher in the sky and are no longer visible.

The longer wavelengths that remain, rich in reds and oranges, are more abundant at Earth’s surface than they were during the afternoon. These are, in turn, scattered by atmospheric molecules

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and particulates, presenting us with the crimson colors we associate with the beginnings and endings of the day.

Reds will always be closer to the horizon at sunrise and sunset, followed by oranges and yellow-orange hues.

If violet streaks, a personal favorite of mine, are present, they will be higher in the sky because the wavelengths causing them to be visible scatter higher in the atmosphere, above the longer wavelength, warmer shades.

Winters in Michigan have particularly vibrant colors at sunrise and sunset. As usual, this is because of the unique geography of the Great Lakes region. Several factors help explain the extraordinary displays that mark the start and end of our winter days.

January and February are typically our coldest months, and the atmosphere can become relatively dry, especially after the temperature of Lake Michigan drops. Remember that warm air is more likely to be humid, holding more water vapor than colder, less moist air. Although the relative amounts of nitrogen and oxygen are stable, the amount of light scattering on a cold winter’s day is decreased when less water vapor is present.

Additionally, much of our frigid weather is due to arctic fronts dropping from northern latitudes. In 2019, we experienced one of our coldest winters on record – highlighted by a phenom-

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enon called the “polar vortex” that brought low atmospheric pressure and bone-chilling temperatures to Michigan. I would bet the sunrises and sunsets were spectacular, but what I remember is cold! In addition to frigid temperature, winter air is generally cleaner, so these fronts bring less particulate matter and pollutant molecules since there are fewer agricultural and manufacturing inputs. Again, this “purer” air decreases scattering and increases the chances of breathtaking colors heralding the day.

Of course, sunrises or sunsets are most breathtaking when there is minimal cloud cover. As often happens here in Michigan, they are muted and unspectacular when low clouds are present.

As we enter our most frigid months, I hope that you are inspired to pay close attention to weather conditions and enjoy the spectral gifts of our cold winters. Grab a cup of hot coffee, take a seat at an east-facing window, tuck your feet into some warm slippers and enjoy the show! If you’re a night owl, add some brandy to the coffee and turn around. Pardon me while I let out the dogs and do just that!

Cheryl Hach Retired Science Teacher Kalamazoo Area Math and Science Center

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20

February 2021

GOOD NEWS

FREE february Events virtual

Museum to Host March 6

Due to Corona virus be sure to call or look online for possible event changes or cancellations.

Through Sat,, Feb. 6 Kalamazoo Craft Beverage Week 2022 Through Sat., Feb. 26 Around the World Reading Challenge, ages 16+ Richland Community Library Through Sat., Feb. 26 Winter Movie Challenge All ages, Richland Library Through Tues., Mar. 1 Family Winter Reading Program, Comstock Library Through Sun., May 1 Exhibit: Toys: The Inside Story Kalamazoo Valley Museum Tuesdays, Feb. 1,8,15,22 Family Storytime, 10:30am Comstock Community Library

Thursdays, Feb. 3,10,17,24 Musical Mayhem Storytime, 10:30 & 11:30am, Comstock Library

Tuesdays, February 8, 22 Adult Coloring Group, 10am Reserve ahead: 657-3800 Paw Paw District Library

Thursdays, Feb. 3,10,17,24 Preschool StoryTime, ages 0-4, 1pm, Richland Library

Tues., Feb. 8 – Fri., Jan. 11 Winter Drop-in Crafternoons, Teens/Adults, Richland Library

Thursdays, Feb. 3,10,17,24 After school fun: science, art & Games, 4-4:45, Ransom Library Thursdays, Feb. 3,10,17,24 Bilingual Storytime, 6:30pm Paw Paw District Library Thursday, February 3 The Hidden Story of the Women Who built Gibson’s “Banner” Guitars of WWII, 7-8pm Ransom District Library

Tuesday, February 1 Chair Yoga, 10:30-11:30am Register 685-8024 Ransom District Library

Friday, February 4 Memory Café- in person, for those with mild dementia & care partners, 1030am-Noon Paw Paw District Library

Tuesdays, Feb. 1,8,15,22 Drop In Gaming, ages 11-17 3pm, Richland Library

Friday, February 4 Art Hop, Downtown Kalamazoo & Vine Neighborhood, 5-8pm

Tuesdays, Feb. 1,8,15,22 Teen Tuesdays, 3-4pm Ransom District Library

Saturday, February 5 Adult Pick-Up Craft: Rhinestone Painting, Comstock Library

Tuesday, February 1 Spark Joy with De-cluttering On zoom & in person, 7-8:30pm Register: 657-3800 Paw Paw District Library

Saturdays, Feb. 5,12,19,26 Kalamazoo Winter Market 8am-1pm, New Location: St. Joseph Church, 930 Lake St.

Wednesday, February 2 Mystery Club -Take & Solve Kit ages 16+, Richland Library

Saturdays, February 5, 19 Pokemon Club, ages 6-11 10am, Richland Library

Wednesdays, Feb. 2,9,16,23 Wednesday Wigglers, ages 3-5, Stories, songs & dancing, 10am

Saturday, February 5 Seed Swap, Start Here Coffee, 1415 Fulford St., Kal., 10am12pm

Wednesdays, Feb. 2,9,16,23 Family Storytime, 10:30am Comstock Community Library

Saturday, February 5 Family Storytime, 11am Comstock Community Library

Wednesdays, Feb. 2,16,23 Story Time, 10:30-11:30am Ransom District Library

Saturday, February 5 WMU Symphony Orchestra – Andrew Koehler, Conductor Miller Auditorium, 8pm

Wednesdays, Feb. 2,9,16,23 Learn About eBooks, 11-12pm Richland Community Library Wednesday, February 2, 16 Sew What? Stitching Group 1-3pm, Ransom District Library Wednesday, February 2 WMU Convocation Series: Henning Schroder, Saxaphone and Yu-Lien The Piano, Dalton Recital Hall, 1pm

Mondays, Feb. 7,14,21,28 Story Time, 10-10:30 Reservations: 657-3800 Paw Paw District Library Mondays, Feb. 7,14,21,28 Family Storytime, 10:30am Comstock Community Library Mondays Feb. 7,14,28 Drop-In Video Gaming, ages 6+, 5:30-7:30pm, Comstock Library

Tuesday, February 8 ARTbreak: Africa, Imagined with Chief Curator Rehema Barber Kalamazoo Institute of Arts Noon – 1pm, In Person & online Register ahead 349-7775 Wednesday, February 9 Birds & Coffee Chats online W.K. Kellogg Bird Sanctuary Birdsanctuary.kbs.msu.edu Topic: Owls, 10-11am Thursday, February 10 Adult Book club, 1:30-2:30pm Comstock Community Library Thursday, February 10 Artist Reception: Michael Dunn, Richland Garden Party 5-7pm, Richland Library Thursday, February 10 Craft Night: Faux Stained Glass Jars, 7-8pm, Ransom Library Thursday, February 10 WMU Faculty & Guest Recital Chris Biggs, Live Electronics & Ben Schmidt-Swartz, SaxaphoneLivestream, Dalton Hall, 7:30pm Fridays, February 11, 25 Teen Advisory Board, ages 11-17, 3pm, Richland Library Friday, February 11 Exhibit Opening Reception: Art Drawn From Nature, 7pm Kalamazoo Nature Center Saturday, February 12 Internet Users Group, 10am-Noon, Paw Paw Library Saturday, February 12 Chocolate Stroll in downtown Plainwell, normal business hours Saturday, February 12 Art Detectives: Me and Uncle Romie, ages 4-8, 10:30-Noon Kalamazoo Institute of Arts Tuesday, February 15 Manga Mania discussion group for teens, 3-4pm, Paw Paw District Library Tuesday, February 15 Teen Advisory Group, 6pm Comstock Community Library Tuesday, February 15 Western Winds: Scott Boerma, Conductor, Dalton Recital Hall –

Livestream, 7:30pm Wednesday, February 16 Book Discussion: Things Fall Apart, 2-3pm, Kalamazoo Institute of Arts Wednesday, February 16 Teen Advisory Group, 2pm Comstock Community Library Wednesday, February 16 Pokemon Club, ages 6-11 3pm, Richland Library Wednesday, February 16 Discover Michigan with Author, Mike Sonneberg, 7-8pm Ransom District Library Thursday, February 17 Heartbreak Book Club 6:30pm, Paw Paw Library Thursday, February 17 Books with Friends Book Club Ages 18+, 7pm, Richland Library Thursday, February 17 Trivia Night, 7-8pm, register 685-8024, Ransom Library Fri., Feb. 18 – Mon., Feb. 21 Escape Room, all ages, by Appt.: 685-8024, Ransom Library Sunday, February 20 WMU Wind Symphony & Concert Band, 3pm, Miller Auditorium Monday, February 21 WMU Symphonic Band 7:30pm, Miller Auditorium Tuesday, February 22 ARTbreak: Hidden Women of Color With Jerome & Delma Washington, 12-1pm, in person & online, Register 349-7775, Kalamazoo Institute of Arts Wednesday, February 23 WMU Convocation Series: Sang Mee Lee, Violin, Dalton Hall Wednesday, February 23 Build-o-Rama, 4-5pm Ransom District Library Thursday, February 24 Trivial Pursuit Trivia Nights Feb. Theme: Science & Nature Ages 18+, Register: 629-9085 7-8pm, Richland Library Thursday, February 24 Chasing North Star, author Presentation, 7-8pm Ransom District Library Sunday, February 27 WMU Choral Showcase: Anima, Amphion & University Chorale 3pm, First Baptist Church, Kal.