Good News June 2023

Remember When Clothesline Art Show

cleaned up the park, removed downed trees and installed sod in their place until trees could be replaced. The June 7th, 1980 event went off without a hitch. The art fair has run continuously, except for the 2-year Covid break in 2020 and 2021.

treat, the KIA galleries will be open for FREE admission on Friday and Saturday.

The first Clothesline Art Show began with lengths of rope strung between park trees and clothespins holding local artists work. It was held on the first Saturday in June 1951 in Bronson Park.

The idea of the Clothesline Art Show was sparked by a conversation between a Kalamazoo Gazette reporter and the President of the Kalamazoo Institute of Arts (KIA). The event was designed with the intent to help Kalamazoo citizens “become conscious of how things creative can enhance the joy of living.” In addition, it provided an opportunity for local artists to sell their work. The inaugural art show was well received by the community and was attended by 15,000 visitors.

The name “Clothesline Art” was a popular term at the time and several art shows around the country bore this name. The Kalamazoo Clothesline Art Show was renamed the KIA (Kalamazoo Institute of Arts) Art Fair in 1969.

What began as a casual art display of 70 local artist’s paintings hanging on clothesline strung between the park’s trees, has become the second oldest running art fair in the country with over 100 participating artists in many art forms, including: sculptors, jewelers, potters, painters, printmakers and more, selling their wares in

well designed booths under white canopies. Artist selection evolved over time to a juried process with cash awards given for the first, second and third place.

Some locals shared their fond memories of the Clothesline Art Show on the popular Vanished Kalamazoo Facebook page, including: “Cool memories. We always went to the Clothesline Art Show. My sister and I even had a turn to show our watercolors when we were young teens. I grew up to be a potter and my sister is a stained glass artist.” “I used to show my photos at this show. I didn’t make much money, but usually traded for really cool stuff with other artists.” “I was volunteered by the Boy’s Club on Portage St. to help set up the very first Clothesline Art Show. I ended up setting up the real celebrities exhibit…Ted Linderman (Beanie Brown). I remember they paid us with strawberry shortcake from the YWCA across from Bronson Park. Yum! We weren’t supposed to accept tips, but Mr. Linderman made us an offer we couldn’t refuse… five bucks to split between the two of us who helped. I was one wealthy 11 year old for a minute.”

The tornado that hit Bronson Park and downtown Kalamazoo on May 18, 1980 threatened to cancel the event, but dedicated work crews

The 72nd annual event this year is set for Friday, June 2nd from Noon to 8pm and Saturday June 3 from 9am-5pm. Over 100 fine artists travel from across Michigan and the country for the 2-day unique shopping experience bringing works in jewelry, photography, sculpture, painting, ceramics, glass, fiber, leather, wood ad more.

Visitors can enjoy shopping, music, a beer garden, food trucks, and family activities all weekend long. Kalamazoo Institute of Arts Fair is fun for the whole family and open to everyone without registration. As a special

In addition to the KIA Art Fair, the JumpstArt summer arts weekend in downtown Kalamazoo offers Art on the Mall with 60+ artists selling their work on the downtown pedestrian-friendly mall on Friday, June 2nd from noon – 8pm and Saturday, June 3rd from 9am-5pm. 60+ local and regional artists showcase original paintings, jewelry, pottery, sculptures, garden art and art demonstrations along with crowd-pleasing live entertainment! The Do-Dah Parade will be bringing silliness to the streets on Saturday, June 3 at 11am.

Jackie Merriam

Sources: Encore Magazine, June 2016, Vanished Kalamazoo, KG May 24, 2007, KG May 27, 2001.

Photo credit: Peter Futymoski

Growing Roses in Containers

Do you love roses but are stuck with limited space? Is your rose collection growing faster than your raised beds?

Container roses are a great solution for gardeners short on space or those who want the freedom to move their roses around. They give you the option of having roses wherever you want them.

So whether you are trying to cover up some unsightly spot or wanting sweet-smelling roses near your front door, the rose experts at Wedel’s will help you figure out the best roses for you.

Best Types of Roses for Containers

Miniature Roses – Don’t let the name fool you — these roses may be small in bloom size but still produce radiant color. Typically they grow between 12”-18”, depending on growing conditions. These roses also love to hangout in window boxes. Choose a container that is at least 10” deep.

Shrub Roses – These low-growing roses usually reach up to 2’. Shrub roses are available in different styles, colors and smells to keep your garden rocking. Due to their small stature, use these to spruce up your balcony or front stoop. Choose a container that is at least 12” deep.

Drift and Knock Out Roses – You

cannot go wrong with these easy-care roses. They have a neat, bushy growth, are disease-resistant and bloom all summer long. Choose a container that is at least 12” deep.

Floribundas – These one-of-a-kind hybrid roses have vibrant, colorful blooms that will dress up your yard. Grown in clusters, floribundas are wonderful to keep your guests in awe. They require a little more breathing room, so make sure to pick a larger container to keep them comfortable. Choose a container that is at least 15” deep.

6 Easy Steps to Planting Your Rose Bush in a Container

1. Select a container with drainage holes. The taller the containers the better since roses are deep-rooted.

2. Fill container one third of the way with Flower Doo Potting Mix

3. Take the rose out of the pot and gently loosen its roots.

4. Add 3 cups of Espoma Rose Tone to the soil and mix thoroughly.

5. Place the rose in the soil no deeper than it was growing in the container. Planting depth should be such that the graft knuckle is just below the soil level. Add more potting mix to the container and level out soil.

6. Water thoroughly.

Would you like to see some gorgeous roses to give you some ideas of what to plant? There’s every color, style and size imaginable! Go to https://www.wedels.com/blog/we-

dels-rose-list-for-2023

Source: Expoma.com

After months of anticipation, my 3-year-old granddaughter became a big sister in April. While writing a note to Romy, congratulating her on becom-

ing a big sister, I got to thinking about my sisters and how much they have impacted my life.

Sure, we’ve had our share of squabbles, especially with my sister, closest to my age. However, I always knew innately how important they were to my very existence.

In my family of seven, I had four brothers and thankfully 2 sisters. My middle sister is 2 ½ years older and was my main companion, teaching me on a regular basis, that I had to stand up for myself. My oldest sister was 8 years older and I learned from her what not to do to make my mom mad!

Over the years, we’ve shared our

childhood, break-ups, divorce, weddings, raising our families and now caring for our aging parents and everything in between. I am blessed to share all of life’s ups and downs with my awesome sister tribe.

People in your tribe may not be sisters or even family members, but are the people that we choose to share life’s journey with.

Jackie Merriam

Terrie

Schwartz Wedel’s Nursery, Florist & Garden Center

Summer Projects in the Neighborhoods

The neighborhoods have a lot of activities planned for the summer!

Last month Vine and West Main Hill neighborhoods hosted their annual meetings. Vine created space for residents at their meeting to share ideas for Vine’s future placemaking projects, while West Main Hill used their annual meeting to kick off their engagement for their neighborhood plan.

Over the next several months West Main Hill residents will be invited to discuss a range of topics that impact their neighborhood, including transportation, parks, and equity. This input will be collected and reviewed by city staff; eventually shaping into a first draft of West Main Hill’s neighborhood plan. West Main Hill has worked towards engaging residents to develop such a plan since the City’s adoption of its Imagine Kalamazoo 2025 Master Plan in 2017. The West Main Hill Neighborhood Association’s goal is to engage as many residents as possible over the course of this year to put together a plan that reflects most residents’ interests and concerns.

Stuart residents are just wrapping up with this engagement phase and entering the next stage of their plan, which is implementation. More than 75 projects have been outlined across

six neighborhood goals, including topics such as transportation, historic preservation, community building, education, housing, and neighborhood identity. If you are a resident of the Stuart neighborhood, this summer is a great time to get involved with the Stuart Historic Neighborhood Association and volunteer to turn these projects into reality.

Residents who live in neighborhoods such as Northside, Eastside,

Edison, Vine, Oakwood, Parkview hills, and Oakland Dr./Winchell have many opportunities to get involved and make a difference in their neighborhood. Each of these neighborhoods have their own plan and can be found on ImagineKalamazoo.com. The neighborhood associations are also quite active in hosting events in other programming and often promote these activities on their website or in a newsletter.

Other neighborhoods like, Douglas

and Westnedge Hill, are just starting to get organized by passionate resident volunteers and form neighborhood associations to help advocate on behalf of their neighbors. Both neighborhoods continue to meet monthly and host events throughout the year to connect with residents.

The Douglas Neighborhood Association meets every 3rd Tuesday at 6:30 PM in the station 5 building which is located at 619 Douglas Avenue, and their next event will be the annual End of the Year Party to celebrate students finishing another year of school. The party will be held at Adda Dilts Peace Park, 709 Denner St., on June 9th from 1-2pm. Residents of Westnedge Hill can stay connected to what’s going in their neighborhood every 3rd Thursday at 6:30pm at the Maple St. YMCA. The Westnedge Hill Neighborhood Association will be hosting a Block Party on June 3rd at Crane Park, from 4-6pm, followed by a neighborhood bike ride.

To get involved where you live, reach out to your neighborhood association. Don’t have one? Contact the City’s Neighborhood Activator at 3-1-1 to get started on imagining your neighborhood.

Jae Slaby

In Search of our Super-Powers A Mother and Daughter Adventure Series Our Biggest Adventure Ever!

maybe we should find out where it is and what they serve for lunch.

It turns out that Iceland is on the way to Germany, and it has black sand beaches, thermal hot springs, and PUFFINS! Who doesn’t want to celebrate a life-long love affair with puffins in the background of the photos? Of course, we bought the tickets.

somewhere in the Swiss alps, a new superpower will make an appearance!

around you.

Jane: Dean and I are doing something entirely radical this year—we are celebrating our 40th wedding anniversary. Staying married this long is something the kids call “legit.” Being out of the main stream, we decided to bring the needle back to center and take a traditional style vacation trip to mark the event. Perhaps a week in Florida? Or maybe go look at the Grand Canyon? South Haven is always fun. But then, Dean found a deal from Icelandic Air—an offer we couldn’t believe—half-price tickets to Frankfurt, Germany if we agreed to stop over in Iceland on the way. Germany? Ja, gut. We like bratwurst and beer so that sounds like a winner. But, Iceland? Hmmm…

Ellen: In our family, dramatic decisions have a cascade effect. When our parents scheduled a fantastic overseas vacation to explore lands unknown, Michael and I and Martha all realized that it’s been a while since we had a wild adventure in a foreign country…where do we buy tickets?

We will be meeting up with each other at various points in this journey. Michael and I are signed up to explore the fjords of Iceland and ride some Icelandic ponies across the volcanic landscape. Martha will join our parents for the beer and bratwurst segment of the quest, ready to visit haunted castles and marvel at the European landscapes. The 40th anniversary pair will then continue the adventure on their own and, perhaps

Another decision cascade has been that we have all recently bought new homes. We are lucky to have had the chance to do so and are fully embracing the highs and lows that come with new walls, new yards, and new communities. In doing so, though, the West Michigan era of our lives has drawn to a close. We have been so incredibly fortunate to have lived, loved, and adventured in this beautiful place; it is intrinsically part of each of us. I can’t tell you how many times I have mentioned to someone that I’m from Kalamazoo and they respond with “Ooooh, that makes sense.”

Thank you to everyone who has read our stories over the years; we have so enjoyed meeting you out in the community and hearing about your adventures and superpowers in return. Thank you, too, to The Good News for being a place to share that which is good in our world, we have loved being part of it. We wish all of you exciting adventures big and small, and the ability to find joy in what is

Jane: This is our last mother/ daughter adventure column and we will miss west Michigan and the wonderful people here very much. In farewell, we wish you all the peace your hearts can hold. And puffins. We wish everyone puffins, especially Jackie Merriam and her staff.

For dog lovers, for those who’ve experienced PTSD, for anyone who seeks inspirational stories of hope and healing from pain, trauma, sorrow, despair, or grief

Ellen Radke and Jane Knuth

The T Top T op Ten en Adult Fiction and Nonfiction

For book recommendations from your Kalamazoo Public Library Staff go to www.kpl.gov/blog/

Chain-Gang Al Chain-Gang Alll-Stars: A No -Stars: Novveel l Nana Kwame Adjei-Brenyah (Pantheon)

In a near-future America, prisoners can opt into a gruesome program of death matches against other prisoners. Their lives are broadcast to a bloodthirsty public, and they can win their freedom if they kill enough opponents. The novel employs an effective series of rotating narrators to tell all sides of this story, forcing us to look at how we dehumanize prisoners

— Laura Bovee, Chicopee Public Library

NoveList read-alike: Bitch Planet/Kelly Sue DeConnick

Kil Killling Me ing Michelle Gagnon (G.P. Putnam's Sons)

Amber has very strong opinions about people who fall prey to serial killers and is sure that being savvy and street smart will keep her safe. Until she is taken by a serial killer, and her life becomes a hot mess. This quirky, snarky book reads like Janet Evanovich teamed up with Stephen King.

— Linda Quinn, Fairfield Public Library

NoveList read-alike: Everyone in My Family Has Killed

Someone/Benjamin Stevenson

T The Secr he Secret Book of Fl et of Florora L a Lea ea Patti Callahan Henry (Atria)

A poetic tribute to the power of story. Exploring the lifelong effects of the horrors of war the richly developed characters endure loss that haunts them into adulthood. When a mysterious book appears, it sets in motion a search for answers, making sense of the past, and healing of broken hearts

— Ron Block, Cuyahoga County Public Library

NoveList read-alike: The Distant Hours/Kate Morton

Bonus pick:

T The

he Ferrerryman: A No yman: Novveel l Justin Cronin (Ballantine Books)

In a world where people don't die but are ferried away to be regenerated into a 16-year-old with no memories, Proctor is responsible for making sure the "retirees" go without a fuss. But he is quickly drawn into a mystery at the heart of their societ y. The multi-layered quality moves this from a poignant story into thriller, into world-exploring science fiction.

T The Guest: A No he A Novveel l Emma Cline (Random House)

Alex is coasting through life on the grace and credit card of her older boy friend for the summer. She can’t return to the city now that her roommates want nothing to do with her and her friends have all disappeared. There is nothing she won't do, and no one she won't manipulate, to get what she needs: a bit more time Perfect for fans of The Talented Mr. Ripley

— Kimberly McGee, Lake Travis Community Library

NoveList read-alike: Luster/Raven Leilani

Pr Practice Mak actice Makes P es Perferfect: A ect: A No Novveel l Sarah Adams (Dell)

A sweet Kentucky florist looking for love asks her sister-in-law’s bodyguard to help her sass up after a date accuses her of being too boring. With wonderful characters, this cute romance is a great second installment in the When in Rome series

— Sonya Skibicki, Bartlett Public Library District

NoveList read-alike: The American Roommate Experiment/Elena Armas

T The Wishing Game: A No he Wishing A Novveel l Meg Shaffer (Ballantine Books)

In this magical tale, a beloved children’s author announces a tantalizing game: four fans can compete to win the only copy of his new book. All the contestants are intriguing, but readers will root for Lucy, a teacher’s aide desperate to find the money needed to adopt an orphaned boy

Beth Mills, New Rochelle Public Library

NoveList read-alike: Mr. Penumbra's 24-Hour Bookstore/ Robin Sloan

Hul Hula: A No a: A Novveel l Jasmin ‘Iolani Hakes (HarperVia) See our social media for annotation!

T The Half Moon: A No he Half Moon: Novveel l Mary Beth Keane (Scribner)

What happens when your current life doesn't match your expectations? That's what's happening with Malcom and Jess. The married couple thought things would be easier, but life keeps throwing curveballs at them. Over the course of a blizzard, they are forced to reckon with their decisions and determine if they can move forward on a different path.

—Melissa Tunstall, Charleston County Public Library

NoveList read-alike: Early Morning Riser/Katherine Heiny

Quietl Quietly Hostil y Hostile: Essay e: Essays s Samantha Irby (Vintage)

If you haven't already read Irby: 1) Who are you and how do you live? 2) This is a perfect time to start Reading her relatable essays feels like hanging out with an older sister who doesn't sugarcoat the awkward parts of life and helps you recognize you’re not the only one faking your way through adulthood.

— Rebecca Hayes, Highland Park Public Library

NoveList read-alike: She's Nice Though/Mia Mercado

Witch King Witch King Martha Wells ( Tordotcom)

Kai, the eponymous (and erroneously named) Witch King, traverses two timelines as he helps overthrow an empire and then has to deal with the descendants of heroes who live long enough to become villains. A very fun, tightly plotted epic fantasy with spectacular worldbuilding and pacing.

— Veronica Koven-Matasy, Boston Public Library NoveList read-alike: The Goblin Emperor/Katherine Addison

Vintage Beach Wear Then and Now

Back in the 1800’s men had it made and were allowed to swim naked up until the 1860’s, when it was banned in the United Kingdom. Women not so much… They were required to wear what was called a ‘bathing gown’, which was an ankle length gown made of flannel or wool to preserve the woman’s decency. Fortunately, we’ve come a long way since then and vintage bathing suits and beach wear are back by popular demand.

When the Australian swimmer, Annette Kellerman, visited the U.S. in 1907 she switched up the swimsuit fashion trend for good, but only after being arrested for indecent exposure. She marketed a one-piece suit covering the torso, arms, and thighs while still revealing the shapes underneath, and although controversial, it was a hit in the US.

By the 1930’s, the necklines began to plunge, sleeves disappeared, and latex and nylon were introduced. Hollywood loved it and it took off with the help of the professional synchronized swimmer Esther Williams. This is when the brand Catalina Swimwear was introduced and offered almost bare-back designs which were fashionable and remain in style today. Another very popular brand of that time was Jantzen Swimwear. Each brand offered a full range of

colors, styles and decorative options. During this time, Coco Chanel made suntans fashionable and so the two-piece suit was also introduced. Shortly after WW11, this evolved into what is now known as the bikini.    For the most part, swimwear in the 1940’s, 50’s and 60’s followed the style of the 1930’s. Of course, Christian Dior had a strong influence on swim wear style of the 1950’s. This resulted in cinched waists and constructed bustlines in swimwear, adorned with bracelets, earrings, hats, scarves and high heels. In the mid1950s, Vogue magazine stated that swimwear had become more of “a

state of dress, not undress”.

By the 1960’s the swimsuit began to shrink in all directions, from the monokini, a topless one-piece suit, to the Brazilian thong of the 1980’s. The one piece remained popular and the high cut legs and low-cut neckline of the suits were flattering in a less revealing way than the bikini.

Another popular beach trend took place in the 1920’s and ‘30s and is coming back as high fashion today. The ‘beach pajamas’ were to be worn by the seaside for walking or cycling along the boardwalk and were made popular by Coco Channel. At first, only the brave and adventurous wore

these, but the stylish and comfortable day outfits soon became popular with all women. Today, you can wear these for fun or even for dress, paired with heels and jewelry. These are sought after items in the vintage world because of their style, wearability, and the variety or wonderful patterns.   Whatever you decide to wear to the beach or pool, enjoy it and don’t be afraid to look to the past and try something new! Have a wonderful summer and vintage love to you all.

Jayne Gulliver J-Bird Vintage

1960’s Bikini

Esther Williams

1960’s Bikini

130 Years Ago: The World’s Columbian Exposition

This year marks the 130th anniversary of the World’s Columbian Exposition in Chicago. The world’s fair took place from May 1 through October 30 of 1893, at the peak of the Gilded Age with its rapid social and technological changes. The equivalent of 43 percent of the American population attended the fair (27.3 million people). On one particular day, October 9—designated “Chicago Day”—more than 751,000 people attended. The exposition remains one of the most consequential gatherings of people in American history. The event was originally envisioned to take place the previous year, 1892, to commemorate the 400th anniversary of Christopher Columbus’s arrival in the New World. Chicago competed with other U.S. cities, particularly New York, to secure the event. In an exchange of boastful claims by both cities, New York Sun reporter Charles A. Dana called Chicago’s statements “nonsensical claims” of that “Windy City,” a nickname that endured. Congress awarded the exposition to Chicago, just 19 years after the Great Chicago Fire. Planners soon determined that to adequately prepare and complete construction, the fair could not take place until 1893. Financial support came from prominent locals including Marshall Field, Armour, Swift, McCormick, and Lyman Gage.

Daniel Burnham was the chief planner, with architectural and landscaping expertise from Frederick Law

Olmstead, Charles B. Atwood, and Wellborn Root.

Workers essentially built a city in two years. The site, 690 acres in Chicago’s Jackson Park and southern lakefront area, included 200 new buildings, 14 of them large structures called “Great Buildings.” Everything was done on a grand scale. Building exteriors were covered with a white plaster mixture which led to the sobriquet “The White City.” Sculpture, under the direction of sculptor Augustus Saint-Gaudens, was everywhere. The fair had the largest installation of electrical lights in the world to that point, and night scenes were glorious. A train station was built along with an elevated electric train and 57 miles of roadway. Britannica says “the idea of comprehensive urban planning” first took hold at the fair.

By presidential declaration, the newly-written Pledge of Allegiance was first performed on October 21, 1892—Columbus Day—in public schools across the country to coincide with the fair.

The fair opened on May 1, 1893 with President Grover Cleveland pressing a ceremonial button to turn on electricity. Direct descendants of Christopher Columbus were part of the ceremony.

In the fair’s Midway Plaisance was the world’s first Ferris wheel. A main attraction, it wasn’t completed and opened until June 21. The creation of engineer George Washington Ferris,

the wheel was 264 feet high with 36 cars that held 60 people each, a total capacity of 2,160 people.

Visitors could ride around the fair’s waterways in electric-powered boats. Many of the best painters, sculptors, musicians, and other artists of the day were on hand. John Philip Sousa’s band, Scott Joplin, the Mormon Tabernacle Choir, and Harry Houdini performed. Attendees were introduced to many new products, including Crackerjack, Cream of Wheat, Hershey Chocolate, Quaker Oats, and Pabst Blue Ribbon beer. Nikola Tesla demonstrated induction motors and generators.

One carpenter who worked on the buildings, Elias Disney, later told stories about the magical land to his son Walt, who years later would create magical lands of his own. Writer L. Frank Baum and his illustrator, William Wallace Denslow, visited the White City, influencing their creation of Oz and its Emerald City.

Forty-six nations, 34 states and four territories had buildings at the fair. The Michigan Building, located just west of the Palace of Fine Arts, was a popular attraction. Gray with a dark red roof, it was 100 feet by 144 feet and three stories high. It had “great fireplaces and carved oak mantels” and displayed some of the state’s attractions such as minerals and animals, including moose, bear, woodcock, and wolverines.

The fair ended on a somber note. Chicago’s popular mayor, Carter

Harrison, was assassinated two days before the fair’s end; a public memorial service was held instead of a closing ceremony.

Only two buildings remain from the exposition: the Palace of Fine Arts (now the Museum of Science and Industry) and the World’s Congress Auxiliary Building (now the Art Institute of Chicago). Books and documentaries about the fair abound, and memorabilia including admission tickets, paintings, photographs, plates, cups, and spoons are available through auctions and other sources.

Tony Ettwein

Photo Cutlines: 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition

Submitted by Tony Ettwein

Photo A

Photo Credit: Unknown Description: 1893 World Columbian Exposition Advertising

Poster

Photo B

Photo Credit: Chicago Historical SocietyDescription: Chicago’s Ferris wheel cars could hold up to 60 people

Photo C Photo Credit: C.D. Arnold

Description: Court of Honor and Grand Basin at the World’s Columbian Exposition

be ART ful

It’s the beginning of our summer here in Michigan. That means for many of us, that we practically live outdoors all season long to enjoy and take advantage of everything our Great Lakes State has to offer. I tend to flee to the shores of Lake Michigan every chance I get during the summer months. I don’t know about you, but I sure do find contentment being near the water. It calms me just as much as it energizes me. And let’s not forget about those gorgeous lake sunsets that I just can’t get enough of. Oh how they never disappoint with their rich and vibrant hues of oranges, pinks, reds and golds.

I was experimenting recently with a watercolor resist technique and was so enthralled with the process that I didn’t realize until it was finished that the colors were very reminiscent of one of those quintessential Lake Michigan sunsets. I am so excited to share this tutorial with you, so let’s begin!

Supplies needed: watercolor paper . watercolor paints . paint brush . masking fluid . card stock . glue

Step 1. Use any size watercolor paper that you would like for this project. I already had on hand a sheet of 12 x 16. The masking fluid was a gift, but can be purchased locally from a craft store or online. I used a

20 gauge fine tip resist pen. This is the fun and just go-with-it part…splatter and draw lines and shapes with the masking fluid onto the watercolor paper. Let dry completely before moving on to the next step.

Step 2. Choose 2 to 3 colors from your paint palette. You already know I subconsciously picked the warm tones of a sunset and now it’s your turn to pick what you like. Remember, watercolors need lots of water. Soak your brush well before you mix it into the paint and then begin painting. I randomly put the colors on the paper and didn’t think about a pattern or precision of placement. I was absorbed in the creative moment and captivated with having a playful and lighthearted project! When the paper is fully covered with paint, let it dry thoroughly.

Step 3. Remove the masking fluid. To do this, simply use your fingers to rub it off. By doing this, you will reveal the white of the watercolor paper and see the design you created really stand out against the colors. Now is also the time to decide if you want to leave your work of art as is and frame it or cut it up into smaller rectangles like I did. I actually ended up glueing them onto card stock and made notecards.

I have always been a believer in a hand written note. So while sitting on the beach this summer, watching the sunset of course, you might catch me penning a letter to someone. Snail mail is so retro that it’s back in style and these notecards are definitely stylish! xo - Bridget

Email: bridgetfoxkzoo@gmail.com

Social: https://www.instagram.com/ bridgetfoxkzoo

I Have What? Discovering You Have A Chronic Illness!

The Initial Shock

Tim McGraw sang lyrics that speak to anyone who has discovered a chronic illness. The lyrics go like this “With a lot of life before me. When a moment came that stopped me on a dime. I spent most of the next days, looking at the x-rays and talkin› ‹bout the options.

And talkin› ‹bout sweet time. I asked him when it sank in that this might really be the real end. How’s it hit you when you get that kind of news (Nicholas, T & Wiseman, C, 2004).

These lyrics can resonate with anyone that has sat in the doctor’s office and heard the doctor give the news of a chronic or terminal illness. Sitting there in initial shock and feeling like time has stopped, having it challenging to concentrate on what is being said while feeling a pit deep within your stomach is a normal reaction to an abnormal situation. A severe diagnosis can alter your life overnight. After receiving the news of a painful diagnosis, people may often feel a sense of failure, overwhelmed, fearful, anxious, or brokenness. Sometimes people feel like they could have lived their life differently to have prevented the diagnosis is related to the guilt they may be feeling when processing the news.

chance to live like you were dying”

(Nicholas, T & Wiseman, C, 2004).

The best thing for people to do is stay positive and ensure they have a support system to help them navigate life after hearing the diagnosis. It is an emotional journey you don’t want to go through alone. Here are some tips to assist you in maneuvering your new chapter of life.

illness, sit with it for a moment and find activities to improve your mood. Studies have proven that your attitude affects your overall physical health. Live life, participate in social events, and plan activities that bring you joy.

pate in risk-taking behaviors, look for a time in their life when they felt wild and free, and find relationships that allow them to share their true feelings because sometimes they can’t share those emotions with their family or friends because they want elution of they are vital for their loved ones. Some people may turn to alcohol or drugs to cope. While others may take up gambling. While other people will push their loved ones away to feel a sense of control over something. Unhealthy coping mechanisms are not suitable for you. It may be time to admit you need a professional therapist to provide tools and techniques to teach healthy coping methods.

The unknown can cause anxiety. Treatment and the uncertainty while going through additional testing can create stress, which may bring anger, and you may react to things differently.

Coping with the Emotional Rollercoaster After Receiving the Diagnosis

Many Emotions may be playing through your mind, and you may feel like you are on a rollercoaster of feelings. Tim McGraw sang it best with the lyrics to his song Live Like You Are Dying “ I went Rocky Mountain climbing. I went 2.7 seconds on a bull named Fu Manchu, and I loved deeper, and I spoke sweeter, and I gave forgiveness I’d been denying. He said someday, I hope you get the

• Connect with people, and join a support group. Support groups can assist in you not feeling alone and learning how others have navigated the translon after receiving a severe diagnosis.

• Don’t neglect your mental health. Listen to your body. Are you feeling depressed, anxious, or lacking energy? Reach out to a mental health provider to assist in providing tools to help you reach the acceptance stage of your diagnosis.

• Self-care, take time for yourself, allow yourself to relax, and recharge. Listen to music, get out in nature, journal, talk to a friend, meditate, practice mindfulness, and find ways to manage your mental health. Don’t allow yourself to constantly focus on your

• Find resources to assist in educating yourself on your diagnosis. Discuss your treatment plan with your provider, and don’t be afraid to ask questions and advocate for yourself. If you don’t understand what your provider says, ask them to talk to you in laymen’s terms.

Coping with Your Diagnosis Can be Difficult

Receiving a severe diagnosis is lifealtering, and you may feel like your life stopped on a dime and had to steer in a different direction. It can be exhausting and lonely as you might be trying to protect the ones you love from your genuine feelings related to your diagnosis. Coping with your diagnosis isn’t easy, but ensuring you take care of your mental health can help you make life changes.

Not everyone uses healthy coping mechanisms when faced with a difficult diagnosis. They may partici-

Receiving a problematic diagnosis is never easy. It is usual for people to first be in denial. You will go through the grieving process as you must grieve your life before the diagnosis. Research indicates that those who can cope with their diagnosis are crucial in treatment and recovery. Patients who choose a positive mindset allow resilience in the face of adversity. Resilience allows people to persevere and adapt to new life changes. Being emotionally aware and taking time for self-reflection can be imperative in feeling a sense of peace and acceptance, allowing you to flourish in your healing journey.

Dr. Julie Sorenson, DMFT, MA, LPC References

Nicholas, T & Wiseman, C, 2004 Live Like You Were Dying, Curb Records

Steele, E, 2022 Coping with a Chronic Illness Diagnosis. Resilience and Emotional Awareness in Chronic Disease, Psychology Today Steele, E, 2023, Coping With a Severe Diagnosis. Emotional Support From Healthcare Providers is Essential, Psychology Today

Milestone Senior Services is celebrating 60 years of supporting older adults and adults with disabilities in living independently in the place they call home. Would you like to help make an impact with us during the next 60 years? You can start now! With your gift to our New Home New Hope capital campaign, you will be helping to ensure we continue to meet the growing demand for our services. The much needed renovations, updated kitchen equipment and new enclosed work building for our home repair program will allow us to serve even more older adults as this population continues to grow. Please join us in making a difference with your contribution today to create a New Home to inspire New Hope.

269-382-0515 x114

Family Date Night

With summer approaching, your child(ren) may be experiencing some big emotions as they transition from a very structured routine to being more laid-back for summer break. This may cause some anxiety for both you and your scholars. There are steps you can take to ease the transition:

1. Revamp a Schedule

Naturally, the schedule will change for summer break, but keeping a (new) consistent schedule will help children know what to expect from day to day. For example, you may want to have your child(ren) wake up, have meals, and go to sleep at a similar time every day. Allow a certain time slot for technology so you can maintain boundaries. Remember to include time where you can also

take a break and engage in play with your children. Creating a schedule to display for the family to see will be a great visual reminder.

2. Schedule Visits with Friends Children will likely miss seeing their peers over the summer. It is often helpful to make plans with school friends so they can have positive interactions to look forward to. If possible, designate a specific day of the week to “friend day” to maintain consistency.

3. Allow for Their Input when Planning Outings

Gather a list of possible places to go for over the summer. Remember to keep your budget in mind as you create the list, including some free options such as the park, library, or

museum, as well. Allowing them to contribute their ideas will help build their excitement for all the fun experiences they have to look forward to over the next couple of months.

4.Don’t Stop Learning! Just because it is summer break doesn’t mean the learning stops. Thinking outside the box to teach math, reading, and critical thinking skills will help students retain the knowledge they have learned throughout the school year. For instance, if your child likes collecting rocks, you could use them to create addition, subtraction, and multiplication problems. You could also use props to create a liveaction retelling of their favorite story or ask “I wonder what would happen if…” questions to make predictions about events or life stages of bugs.

5.Remember to Take a Break

Just as our children need breaks from

life’s daily expectations, so do you!

Remember to schedule play dates with family members or someone else you can trust so you can have some time to take care of yourself, as well. You cannot be the best version of yourself if you do not allow time to do some of your favorite things such as going for a quiet walk, getting a massage, going out for coffee with a friend, or even just having the house to yourself for a while.

As you prepare for summer to begin, remember to prioritize to make sure you don’t overschedule your family. This can lead to more anxiety and frustration for everyone involved. Ensure you allow down time to refuel throughout the week, as well.

Lori Fletcher; Acacia: A Place for Personal & Family Development

A refreshing and rewarding way to start your day, this Les Radis Petit Déjeuner will add a ravishing splash of color and flavor to wake up your morning plate!

Some of my fondest childhood memories center on time I spent in our tiny home garden that my mother painstakingly cared for, all in the hopes that it would yield something amazing for us to eat. However, with poor soil, which she often sighted as the reason so many plants would fail, one crop that did manage to grow despite such odds were radishes. This is exactly how -and where- I first got to meet this ravishing, ruby-red summer garden treat!

I remember plopping right down in the dirt, and always ending up filthy, but I didn’t care because I loved running my fingers through the powdery-soft dirt, and feeling its coolness run over my skin as if it were a cool, silky sheet– ah!

As a child I was amazed to learn that all it took to grow something was to put a tiny seed in the ground. This was especially true when it came to radishes because they took no time to become seedlings then plants and in a matter of a few weeks they would sprout into these beautiful little red balls that were both crunchy and

Ravishing Radishes!

delightful to eat- amazing, indeed! Delighted in the speed at which they grew, and that they gave Mom no reason to complain, all it took was getting a bite of my very first selfgrown radish to become smitten with this little-veggie-that-could for life! Learning much from those early days with Mom out in our front yard I have come to prefer my radishes as close to fresh-picked as possible. This is because, as I have discovered, the older a radish gets – whether it is still in the ground or in your fridge – the drier its texture and the hotter its flavor seems to become.

In addition to being one of my favorite ravishing ruby treats, radishes also pack a healthy punch for something that comes in such a puny size. Known for their detoxification properties, radishes can help our liver and gallbladder, and our urinary and kidney functions, too!

Radishes also help clear chest congestion and symptoms like coughing, wheezing, shortness in breath, running nose, etc.

Possessing disinfectant properties, radishes can also protect the respiratory tract from infections.

High in fiber, low in calories, making them the perfect crunchy-munchy to snack on, In fact, switching out a higher calorie, low-to-no-nutrition snack for radishes is a fun and easy way to trim your waistline and boost

your health, too! Radishes also contain Vitamin C, which helps boost our immune system, and protect us from all the nasty things out there these days, and since they are fastgrowing, even in not-so-great soil, this may be the perfect summer to get a patch of them growing for you!

If you are not able to grow your own, the next best thing is to shop at a local farmer›s market because there you will find the freshest around!

The best way to tell how fresh radishes are is to look at their greens. The older they look, the longer they are out of the ground. This is why bagged radishes are sans those greens- along with most of their fresh and crisp flavor.

Greens are removed not out of convenience, but to help hide just how old they are. This is why bagged radishes are so low-priced. However,

older produce possesses not only less flavor, but also less nutrition, so when it comes to radishes it›s best to not pinch pennies. In fact, a famous doctor once stated that for every dollar we spend on food that is fresh and nutritious we’ll save about ten dollars on medical bills we won’t have to pay because nutrition plays that big of a role in good health!

Offering us a great way to start our day, get our body’s fun

Food stylist and photographer: Laura Kurella

Laura Kurella is an award-winning recipe developer, food columnist, and author of MIDWEST MORSELS, a new culinary memoir just nominated for a MIPA award! Laura loves sharing recipes from her Michigan kitchen and welcomes your comments at laurakurella@yahoo.com.

Les Radis Petit Déjeuner

Prep time: 5 minutes; Total time: 5 minutes; Yield: 1 serving.

1-2 medium slice Rye, Pumpernickel, or favorite bread

1-2 tablespoon Neufchatel, Creme

Fraise or Greek Yogurt

5 mild radishes, sliced thin or spiral

sliced.

1 tablespoon honey (optional)

Spread cheese or yogurt over bread. Slice radishes as desired then sprinkle over top of bread. Drizzle with honey, if desired.

Ravishing Rosy

Radish Ribbons

Using a mandolin or vegetable peeler, thinly slice cucumber into long, thin strips.

Yield: 4 servings.

1 cucumber natural sea salt

1 bunch of radishes

2 ounces Neufchatel or cream cheese

Everything but the bagel seasoning (recipe below)

Place cucumber slices in a strainer over a bowl or sink then salt slices with a few pinches of salt, tossing. Let cucumbers sit for 30 minutes to one hour. This will remove a large part of the moisture and ensure the cucumbers are crunchy and not soggy. Don’t skip this step or your whole dish will become a puddle. Once time has elapsed, rinse cucumber slices well then pat dry. Smear a bit of cheese across a cucumber slice then arrange three to four radish slices along the cucumber, with the tops of the radishes peeking over the edge of the cucumber. Roll from left to right, making sure there is a little dab of cream cheese on the end of the slice to ensure it doesn’t unroll. Arrange on a serving dish, sprinkle with a generous amount of Everything but the Bagel seasoning then serve.

YIELD: 1/4 cup

1 tablespoon poppy seeds

1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds

1 tablespoon dried garlic

1 tablespoon dried onion

2 teaspoons coarse natural sea salt In a small bowl with a spoon, combine all ingredients. Store in a sealed container until you›re ready to use.

Ravishing Radishes!

Quick ‘n’ Crabby Radish Rolls/Wraps/Tacos

Yield: 2 servings

Serve on its own, over steamed rice, or over shredded cabbage in an eggroll wrapper, taco shell, or a tortilla/ wrap.

1 bunch red or French breakfast radishes, with greens attached (if possible)

2 teaspoons avocado oil

2 tablespoons cold water

1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar

Pinch sugar

7 ounces jumbo-lump crabmeat, cleaned of shell

1 tablespoon black sesame seeds juice of half of a fresh lime

Pinch crushed red pepper flakes(optional)

Trim the leaves from radishes within an inch or two of stems, rinsing well to remove grit. Shake dry. Trim the

radishes, then cut them into quarters or bite-size chunks.

Heat a wok or large skillet over high heat until it is almost smoking, then swirl in the oil. Add the radish greens and radishes; stir-frying for 10 to 15 seconds, then drizzle in the water around the edge of the pan to create steam to soften them.

Season with the vinegar and sugar, stirring just long enough for the sugar to dissolve, then remove from the heat. Add the crab, tossing gently to combine. Sprinkle with the sesame seeds.

Divide between individual plates. Squeeze the juice of the lime half over each portion, then sprinkle with the crushed red pepper flakes, if using. Serve warm.

Radish-Rhubarb Slaw

Prep Time: 15 minutes. Total Time: 15 minutes; Yield: 4 servings.

1/2 teaspoon finely grated lemon zest

1 1/2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice

3/4 teaspoon honey

3/4 teaspoon Dijon mustard

2 tablespoons avocado oil

unrefined sea salt and freshly ground black pepper

1 bunch of radishes, cut into matchsticks

2 large rhubarb stalks (about 8 ounces), cut into matchsticks

1 shallot, very thinly sliced

1 cup mint leaves

In a large bowl, whisk lemon zest, lemon juice, honey and mustard. While whisking, gradually add oil and whisk until emulsified. Season with salt and pepper then add prepared radishes, rhubarb, shallot, and mint. Toss to coat. Taste and season as desired.  Refrigerate until chilled before serving.

Only an aunt can give hugs like a mother, keep secrets like a sister, and can share love like a friend – Author

Unknown

At the point you read this, we will be standing at the threshold of a next season. Two, actually. One is summer just a few short weeks away. The other is graduation. A threshold in which that dance of grace between opposites dances elegantly between endings and new beginnings, between “how did time go so fast?” and “your whole life ahead of you”. Between joy and excitement and sadness and nervous uncertainty.

I cannot imagine what it is to walk in a parent’s shoes whose once toddler is now about to walk across a stage for a diploma. I only have an Aunt’s perspective that our oldest niece “only

yesterday” was weeks old when I held a baby shower to welcome her into this world. Soon, I will witness her steps across a threshold from “I did it!” to “hmmm, what do I want that horizon to be?”

I stand in the center of the picture of my life, with an oldest niece about to graduate high school, , a youngest niece still that toddler, and I, a niece, once both a graduate and a toddler for my Aunt, now a grown women Once five years old celebrating an Uncle’s graduation from college. And now, fifty-years later, the spiral staircase of life brings my Aunt and I together for a few days enjoying time together in a treehouse.

Christine Hassing https://christinehassing.com

HEALTH The Prince and the Pauper

Most of us remember the fairy tale about two men of different economic backgrounds eventually changing places, experiencing the different lifestyles of the other. They also discovered what the diets of the other were, one having plenty, the other less than plenty. It turns out that both diets have relevance today.

I had always thought that caloric intake was the basic principle that controlled weight, not paying much attention to what time of day the calories were consumed. It turns out I was wrong. Studies now show that when you eat is as important as what you eat.

Scientific evidence shows that for optimal health, it’s best to consume most your calories earlier in the day rather than later. So, think bigger breakfast (prince), modest lunch, and small dinner (pauper). This pattern of eating better aligns with our circadian rhythms, the internal clock that governs many aspects of our health. Because the way our internal clocks operate, our bodies are better at digesting and converting food

into energy early in the day. As the day progresses our metabolic function becomes less efficient. So, a meal consumed at 9:00 a.m. can have a vastly different metabolic effect than the same meal at 9:00 p.m.

Up until recently the focus on diet and nutrition has been what we eat, not when we eat it. While the calorie and nutritional content of meals remains important, the timing of meals is getting a lot of attention.

In a recent study, data from rigorous clinical trials involving 485 adults, found that those who consumed most of their food earlier in the day lost more weight than those that did the reverse. Also, researchers found that, despite eating the same foods and maintaining the same activity levels, participants were significantly hungrier when they followed the late eating schedule. In addition, the lateeating participants burned less fat and fewer calories and pushed their fat cells to store more fat.

If meal-timing is of interest to you, here are some suggestions to get you started.

The Monster Monster

Eat breakfast. Research shows that skipping your morning meal increases your risk of obesity. Mornings are when our bodies are primed to metabolize food.

Morning carbohydrates are better than late-in-the-day carbohydrates. If you’re going to eat sweets or simple carbohydrates like bread or pasta, it’s better to do so in the morning or early afternoon when we are most insulin-sensitive. So, you don’t need to feel bad eating the leftover pizza for breakfast.

Make dinner the smallest meal of the day. (Think pauper!) Even if you can’t eat an early dinner, try to make breakfast and lunch your bigger meals of the day and your dinner the smallest. If your typical day has a smaller lunch and a bigger dinner, try switching the order. If quantity is important, your dinner could consist of fruit and vegetables, with appropriate servings of protein and fat. If your in-

clination is to dine out, lunch menus offer portions similar to dinner portions for substantially less money.

Try meal-timing at least five days a week. Sometimes it’s just not practical to eat a small or early dinner. No worries! Scientists found that people who ate a light dinner five days a week still gained benefits, like less fatigue and better blood sugar control. This isn’t an all or nothing approach. The bottom line is an early-eating schedule is better for your health because our bodies are better able to secrete insulin, a hormone that controls blood sugar levels, in the morning. Bring on the pancakes! Remember to work at being kind and MAKE your day so good that yesterday will be jealous. Till next time,

Ken Dettloff ACE

Certified Personal and Brain Health Trainer

The Fountains at Bronson Place

Vanilla ice cream with our homemade monster cookie mixed in, buttercream rim with graham crackers, sprinkles and M&Ms. Topped with a monster cookie chocolate eye balls, chocolate sauce, M&Ms, sprinkles and cotton candy hair.

A Story about Maps

Nearly twenty-five years ago, I joined the Kalamazoo Torch Club which began in 1929. It’s a monthly dinner meeting where one of our members gives a talk on a topic of their choice – always interesting topics followed by engaging collegial discussion.

At our February meeting, fellow member and good friend, John Geisler, a retired professor, gave a presentation on one of his favorite pastimes—the history of roads and highways. His talk was “Up and Down the West Michigan Pike”— which, since the turn of the 20th century, connects Chicago and Michigan’s upper peninsula.

Part of John’s presentation included historical perspectives about finding one’s way to unfamiliar destinations with the advent of the automobile and with it, more frequent and distant travel. Prior to the Model A’s and T’s that expanded the range of travel, there were only written driving instructions. John had acquired copies of such “travel instructions” for places along the West Michigan Pike. As he shared, these guides were not maps but written step-by-step guidance: e.g. “School-house on near left, go right 1.3 miles and turn slightly left at first set of poles…” Telegraph poles, churches, and schoolhouses were common road references.

Obviously, most “reference markers” no longer exist. John, took those “tour instructions” and began the difficult task of following the road. He shared images of some signposts along the way.

To keep pace with the needs of travelers, these travel instructions needed an upgrade—thus, the publication of printed highway maps. Our folks had these oddly-folded travel maps stuffed into their car’s glove boxes.

John shared the true story of mapmakers adding a couple of tiny, fictional locations (towns/villages) into their maps. John had a copy of one of those official Michigan maps (197879) which included the phony “towns” of Goblu (go blue) and Beatosu (beat OSU) just south of the Michigan state line. He put an enlarged image up on the projector screen and it generated instant laughter.

In the discussion that followed, I mentioned that mapmakers and publishers didn’t just add fake locations (sometimes called “paper towns”) to be humorous; they did so to protect their copyrighted work. If someone published a map and it contained the fake locations, it was proof-positive they had copied their work and could be sued for damages. Fake locations are called “copyright traps” and placed there to catch people who copy or steal someone’s work.

The practice of placing copyright traps wasn’t just map publishers. Dictionaries also use it to protect their work. In the 2005 New Oxford American Dictionary, the word “esquivalience” is listed. I found a reference to it and the definition is “the willful avoidance of one’s official responsibilities.” The word existed only in that dictionary. (My spell-checker flags “esquivalience.”)

I also found a reference to a copyright trap found in the New Columbia Encyclopedia. The encyclopedia included an entry about “Lillian Mountweazel” a fictitious photographer. Her last name became an eponym (or a “neologism”—I’m not sure which is correct) for the word “mountweazel” which has come to mean “a fictitious entry.”

As our Torch Club meeting was breaking up, a fellow member came over to me and told me about a book he recently enjoyed reading based on a fake town placed on a highway map. It is titled “The Cartographers” written by Peng Shepherd.

I bought a copy on Amazon and must say it is one of the best reads I’ve had in a long time. She is a masterful writer— her second book. It was just published a year ago and has won numerous awards. It is a murder, mystery, thriller based on a fictional map location called Agloe, New York.

Shepard skillfully injects several clever twists, turns, and highly imaginative surreal contrivances.

It turns out the story gets even better; I learned a few weeks ago of a real copyright trap for the town of “Agloe” on an actual New York map printed by General Drafting Company and its owner/publisher, Otto Linberg, in 1930. Several years later, Agloe appeared on a Rand McNally map and Linberg sued.

But… Rand McNally argued in court that Agloe did indeed exist! In the 1950s, a person who owned a general store, saw Agloe on a local map and named his business (located in that area) Agloe General Store. Rand McNally testified it had verified the Agloe location – the general store’s location is found in local municipal records. Visitors trying to find the fictitious town found “Agloe General Store” which confirmed (for them) the location.

Agloe is now a popular (but vacant) destination for curious tourists. I won’t give away the plot or ending of “The Cartographers” but it’s well worth the read.

I am reminded of the adage: “truth is always stranger than fiction.”

James D. Coppinger

heart of the home

Climbing the Mountain of Clutter

The clutter in your home doesn’t just weigh down your surroundings. Research shows that clutter in the home also affects our physical and emotional wellbeing. Clutter makes us feel exhausted, disoriented, even depressed, and it can cause us to procrastinate on completing our tasks—it can feel too difficult to climb that mountain. On the extreme, hoarding can add to loneliness, because who would want friends to see the mess around us?

On the physical side, clutter can accumulate dust in our homes, creating breathing issues. Dust invites dust mites to gather. To live in clutter increases stress when our homes should be the one place where we should be able to release stress and relax.

It’s settled, then. It is time to climb that mountain. But where to begin?

Decluttering can be a monumental task. So as not to get overwhelmed, break your task into smaller ones. Set a goal of one room at a time, or, if that is too large, one space at a time. You may want to begin with a closet, a medicine chest, a “junk” drawer, or the dining room table that has turned into your disorganized desk. As you clean up one space, the flush of good feeling

will motivate you to take on the next. As you begin, sort items into piles— what goes into the trash, what to donate, what to sell, what to keep. Try hard to keep that “keep” pile small. Think carefully about what you put into this pile. How often have you

used this item? Will you use it again? Does it duplicate something you already have? Will keeping this item impact your life in a positive way? Box up or bag the items to donate and deliver them quickly, so that they don’t just grow back into your closet.

If selling valuable items isn’t going to happen soon, add those items to donations as well. They may bring joy to someone else, and your donations are often tax-deductible. Get receipts. For items you keep, unless they are going to remain out in view, invest in attractive and useful storage. Label your bins so that you can find items easily when needed. Add shelves to your closets. Add a cubby to organize your shoes. Hooks near the entry door can encourage hanging up your jacket rather than tossing it across the nearest chair. Floating shelves in your living room can look good and hold favorite photos and souvenirs.

Once you have your home clean of clutter, make it a regular task on your schedule to keep the mountain from growing back. Live by a rule of something in, something out. If you bring home a new item, discard or donate an old one. It’s a great rule for children who have far too many toys while teaching them the healthy habit of donating to others more in need— but it’s good for adults, too.

Zinta Aistars

Ode to the Highways

What’s something we use almost every day but seldom think about, except to complain? Hints: It’s the life blood of our country. Without it, we  would suffer life altering hardships. It’s a magnificent feat of  engineering and rivals ancient Rome’s expert builders. If you guessed the American highway system, you win. Your prize is the ability to have food, clothing, shelter, and life’s necessities available to you. When I was 12ish, my family moved to within a mile of Michigan’s new four-lane highway, Interstate94/I-94. The finishing touches on the  nearest on/off ramp were wrapping up when we moved into our new house. I’d already learned to love highways because they took my family on camping vacations all over Michigan’s upper and lower peninsulas, Canada, and a few other states. Being a nature loving kid, I watched Michigan’s beautiful plant life  stream past alongside the car. I still enjoy being a passenger and  watching the scenery. Did you know that letting the foliage and trees  grow along highways and roadsides is extremely important to migrating  birds, animals, and butterflies? Many of them follow these green  “migration corridors” on their yearly migrations. Without the green  highway margins, the animals have a tough time migrating and could

become endangered species as many birds, butterflies, and animals  already are. Animal overpasses, like they build in Norway, would be  great for the U.S. highways to save animal and human lives.

Another benefit of living near the highway was that it appeared to me to be an escape route. The atomic bomb era I grew up in was a scary time for everyone. In my child’s mind, I believed that if a disaster ever  happened, the highway could take me to safety. Whether that was a  fantasy or not, living within easy access to a highway makes me feel  better about uncertain times.

When I was a teen, I enjoyed opening my upstairs window on clear nights to listen to the faint rumbling of traffic on I-94. Like many teens, I  couldn’t wait to graduate and hit the road to see America. Kids were  heavily influenced by the TV program “Route 66” with its two youngish guys in their Corvette driving the highway to see America. When I hear the Route 66 theme song, it still makes me feel like jumping in the car  and heading north.

Today, guess what? I live within easy access of a highway again! I think  it’s the prepper in me that can’t get away from having an escape route

nearby. I still like opening the windows on clear nights and listening  to the far away sound of “highway music.” It sounds like music without a beat or tune and it’s always intriguing with its siren song of ‘come on  along and see America.’ If we are respectful of the highway’s rules, it  will take us wherever we want to go. If we aren’t respectful and don’t  follow its rules, the highway can lead to disaster.

Tonight, I’ll listen to Nelson Riddle’s “Route 66” theme song and  imagine I’m crammed into the custom jump seat in Todd and Buz’s  Corvette, heading north on the highway toward the Big Mack and on up  into the U.P. to see my favorite parts of America. Sweet dreams and safe  driving. :)

Highway factoids: I-94 follows the route of an original Native American  foot trail; By 1960, I-94 was completed from New Buffalo to Detroit;  I-94 is the 1st cross-state free highway (freeway); In 2023, MDOT is  considering making I-94 a toll road.* There’s still time to write your  legislators pro or con.

*Wikipedia

Ann Murray is an award-winning commercial illustrator and author. She  has illustrated 8 children’s books and her stories have been in three published anthology books.

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Planting (and Planning) for Pollinators

Years ago, as part of my master’s thesis at MSU, I wrote a teaching unit titled “How Do Plants Get Their Needs Met?” I remain fascinated by the clever adaptations plants employ to enlist the efforts of other species to accomplish such basic requirements as finding a sexual partner, scattering seeds to extend their range, warding off predators, and providing optimal habitat. These helpers are usually insects and birds, but sometimes mammals. Think of perfume, poisons, and pollination to fathom these complex co-evolved strategies.

Early spring is about watching and paying attention. What blooms are abundant today? Dandelions? Purple dead nettle? Violets? I’ll watch for bees foraging at these early pollen sources. Later in the spring? When I see daisies, I know that butterflies have emerged from their chrysalises!   Preferences of specific flowering plants for pollinators are anything but random. Evidence suggests that plant/ pollinator pairs have developed these relationships over millennia. Some partnerships are specific. A famous example (to biology teachers, anyway)

is that between Darwin’s orchid, native to Madagascar, and a hawkmoth. The moth must extend its proboscis (tongue) 30 cm into the orchid’s long floral tube to reach the pollen needed for transfer to another flower. That’s about 10 inches! The moth must then transfer that pollen deep into another orchid of the same species for fertilization to occur. The orchids require the efforts of the moth, and the moth has such a long proboscis that it is difficult to find other species that can accommodate it. The relationship is a beautiful example of two species needing each other to perform the integral dance of reproduction. Fortunately, most relationships between flowers and their pollinators are not so exotic. The term pollination syndrome refers to a series of flower characteristics that influence the type of pollinator that will visit. These characteristics include flower shape, color, odor, and the abundance of nectar and pollen. In some species, a favorable feature is a nectar guide, a pattern on a flower petal that is like a landing strip, guiding the pollinator into the flower to the sweet stuff in-

side (and near the pollen). Frequently invisible to us, nectar guides are a beacon to insects that utilize vision in the ultraviolet range. They are a can’t-miss invitation for bees and butterflies!

I thought it might be fun to look at some of the familiar cues pollinators use to select popular garden flower varieties for visits. A Google search will lead the reader to many examples, but we will use simple, easy-to-observe characteristics for this article. Remember that the traits described are preferences, and considerable variability exists in all things natural. However, the more features of a flower corresponding to the insect preferences, the more likely it is to be an important pollinator.

Let’s start with bees. We can include honeybees, bumble bees, and native solitary bees. Bees don’t see red and orange but have good perception of wavelengths in the ultraviolet, blue, green, and yellow ranges. Therefore, they are drawn to light-colored flowers, sturdy enough to land on to collect the plentiful pollen and nectar resources necessary to raise a young bee brood. Odor is unimportant, and blooms must be open in the daytime when they are foraging. Dandelions, mentioned above, fit the bill. Since they can see in the UV range, bees are essential pollinators of many white flowers with nectar trails. These include most of the fruit blossoms we know and enjoy. Since blue is also within their color perception, consider cornflowers, forget-me-nots, and lungworts especially bee-friendly.

Hummingbirds have a different series of desirable traits in floral specimens. With their long beaks, flowers with long tubular blossoms containing abundant nectar are favored. Hummingbirds also have extraordinary vision and can see vivid colors in the entire visible range and ultraviolet hues. Brightly colored flowers like columbine, daylilies, foxglove, and petunias fit the bill for these essential pollinators.

Butterflies, like hummingbirds, have vision that supports color perception across the visible and ultraviolet range. This explains their attraction to brightly colored flowers. Since

butterflies don’t hover, but typically land on the base of a flower to collect nectar, large blossoms (or grouped blossoms forming a large composite) are favored. Because they use their long proboscises like a straw to take in nectar, butterflies can harvest the sweet liquid in long tubular flowers, such as columbine. Coneflowers, zinnias, petunias, and butterfly bushes, with ample nectar supplies, are also good choices for attracting butterflies. Moths and bats are unique pollinators that are typically active at night when other pollinators rest up for the next day’s activities. Bats that serve as pollinators are generally native to tropical locales and are responsible for producing many tropical fruit crops, such as bananas, guavas, and mangoes. Oh yes – agave, also – so a toast of my favorite margarita goes to the efforts of those bats! Michigan bats are primarily insectivores but can act as pollinators for night bloomers, such as evening primrose (a personal favorite of mine), moonflowers, and four o’clocks. Moths also benefit from evening blooms but tend toward plants with deep tube shapes to accommodate their long proboscises. For both bats and moths, flower color is less important than the presence of deep fragrance and abundant nectar. These include garden favorites such as yucca, morning glory, nicotiana, and gardenia.

Please consider adding species to your garden that will support as many pollinator classes as possible. There are ample selections of the varieties mentioned at our many nurseries and garden centers. Give some new plant varieties a try and treat yourself to a boost of diversity in your garden visitors!

Cheryl Hach Retired Science Teacher Kalamazoo Area Math and Science Center

Reference: Saupe, S. G. (n.d.). Plant Identification. Plant Taxonomy (BIOL308). Retrieved May 8, 2023, from https://employees.csbsju.edu/ SSAUPE/biol308/Lecture/keys. htm#Polyclave

FREE june Events

Museum to Host March 6 virtual

Through June 4

Exhibit: Moments in Time: The Kalamazoo County Photo Documentary Project Kalamazoo Institute of Arts

Through June 18

Exhibit: Mental Health: Mind Matters Kalamazoo Valley Museum

Thursdays, June 1, 8,15,22,29

Kalamazoo Farmers Market, 8-1 1204 Bank St.

Thursday, June 1

Book Club for Adults, 9:3010:30am, read any book by Amor Towles, Vicksburg Library

Thursdays, June 1,8,15,22,29

Plainwell Farmers’ Market 3-6:30pm @ Sweetwater Donuts

Thursdays, June 1,8,15,22,29

Trivia Night, 7pm, Gull Lake Distilling Company, Galesburg

Fridays June 2

Bouncing Babies StoryTime (4 yr. & under), 10-10:30am Vicksburg District Library

Fridays, June 2,9,16,23,30

Family Story Time, 10:15am Richland Community Library

Friday, June 2

Memory Café for people with mild Dementia & their care partners, Paw Paw Library, 10:30am-Noon

Fri., June 2 – Sat. June 3

KIA Art Fair in Bronson Park & Art on the Mall, Dwtn. Kal. Fri. 12 – 8pm, Sat. 9am-5pm

Fridays, June 2,9,16,23,30

Vicksburg Farmers Market, 2-6 300 N. Richardson St.

Fridays, June 2,9,16,23,30

Trivia Fridays, 7-8:30pm

Valhalla Horse Nectar Meadery

Saturdays, June 3,10,17,23

Kalamazoo Farmers Market, 7-2 1204 Bank St.

Saturday, June 3 Do-Dah Parade, 11am Downtown Kalamazoo

Saturday, June 3 Indoor Flea Market, 8am-3pm Kalamazoo County Expo Center

Sundays, June 4,11,18,25

Portage Farmers Market, 9-1, 7900 S. Westnedge

Sunday, June 4,11,18,25

Valhalla Music Open Mic Night, 7-11pm, Valhalla

NorseNectr Meadery

Mon., June 5 – Sat. Aug. 12

Parchment Power! Summer Reading, Parchment Library

Mondays, June 5,12,19,26

Parchment Update Interviews Parchmentlibrary.org

Mondays, June 5,12,19,26

Family Story Time (18mos.-4yr.) 10-10:30am, Vicksburg Library

Mondays, June 5,12,19,26

Cruz in at Dean’s Ice Cream, Plainwell, 4-8pm

Monday, June 5, 12,19,26

Team Trivia at Old Burdick’s Wings West, Kalamazoo, 7-9pm

Tuesdays, June 6,13,20,27

Kalamazoo Farmer’s Market, 8-1 1204 Bank St., Kalamazoo

Tuesday, June 6

The Photography of Gordon Parks, Renaissance Man, 12-1pm Kalamazoo Institute of Arts

Tuesdays, June 6,13,20,27

Drop-In Gaming, (ages 8-18) Richland Library, 3-5pm

Tuesdays, June 6

Kalamazoo Food Truck, 5-7:30pm, Water Street, Kal.

Tuesdays, June 6,13,20,27

Big Furry Friends: Visit with a Therapy Dog, all ages, 4:306:30pm, Parchment Library

Wednesdays, June 7,14,21,28

Richland Farmers Market, 3-6pm, 9400 East CD Ave.

Wednesdays, June 7,14,21,28

Cruise-In, 5-8pm, Gilmore Car Museum

Wednesday, June 7, 14,21,28

Final Goofery Comedy Night 8-10pm, Final Gravity Kal.

Thursdays, June 8, 22

Bulldog/Eagle Break Time (Grades 6-12), 2:45-4:15 Vicksburg District Library

Thursdays, June 8,22

Teen Space/Game Time (Grades 6-12), 4:15-5:45pm Vicksburg District Library

Thursday, June 8

Music:Hunter Wainscott, 6:30-9:30pm, Green Door Distilling

Thursday, June 8

Comedy Open Mic Night, 9-11pm, Valalla Norse Nectar Meadery

Fri., June 9- Sat., June 10

Book Sale @ Vicksburg District Library, 10am-1pm

Saturday, June 10 STEAM Saturday, 10am-Noon Richland Community Library

Saturday, June 10

Your Story! Public Media Network, 10am-Noon, Make a Video, Epic Center, Kalamazoo

Saturday, June 10 60th Birthday Celebration 11am-1pm, Parchment Library

Saturday, June 10 Mallmart + Zoo Flea - Vintage & Handmade Marketplace, Water St., Kalamazoo, 12-7pm

Saturday, June 10 Richland Area Road Rally (Adults- 2-6 member teams), 1-3pm, Richland Library Register ahead: 629-9085

Sunday, June 11 Music: Zion Lion, 6-7:30pm Flesher Field, Oshtemo

Monday, June 12

Parchment Book Group: The Ride of Her Life By Elizabeth Letts, 6pm, Parchment Library

Monday, June 12

Summer Reading Packet Pick-up for children & teens 6-8pm, Vicksburg Library

Tuesday, June 13, 20,27

Bridge Club Event, 9:30am-Noon, Vicksburg Library

Tuesday, June 13

Artistry & Spectacle in the Kabuki Tradition, 12-1pm Kalamazoo Institute of Arts

Tuesday, June 13

Crafts for Adults: Insect Repel Candle, 1-3pm, Vicksburg Library

Tuesdays, June 13, 20,27

Teen Movie Club (ages 12-18), 6/13 -LEGO Batman, 4-6pm, 6/20-Princess Bride, 4-6pm 6/29 – Shrek 2, 1-3pm Vicksburg District Library

Tuesday, June 13

Artist: Erica Bradshaw, 4-7pm, Richland Library

Tuesday, June 13

Kalamazoo Food Truck on the Road, 300 W. Highway St., Vicksburg, 5-7:30pm

Tuesday, June 13

Bee-yond the Bees’ Knees With Charlotte Hubbard, 6:30pm, Parchment Library

Wednesday, June 14 Bird & Coffee Chat: Raptors 10am on Zoom, Register: kbs. msu.edu, Kellogg Bird Sanctuary

Wednesdays, June 14, 21,28

Mugs & Hugs StoryTime, (4yr/under) 10-10:45ammVicksburg Library

Wednesday, June 14 Scrap Tire Collection, 1-7pm City of Kalamazoo parking lot, Appointments required, 7753368, 322 Stockbridge Ave.

Thursday, June 15

Elementary Movie Club 6/15 Marmaduke, 1-3pm 6/22 Charlotte’s Web, 1-3pm 6/27 American Tale, 4-6pm Vicksburg District Library

Thursday, June 15

Kalamazoo Night Market, 5-10 1204 Bank St.

Thursday, June 15

Anime & Gaming Social Group (18+), 5-5:45, Vicksburg Library

Thursday, June 15

Make a Felted Mug Rug or Soap Bar, wet felting with Holy Jensen, 6:30pm, register: Parchment Library

Fri., June 16-Sun., June 18 UKC Premier Dog Show, 9am-4pm, Kalamazoo Expo Center

Friday, June 16 Food Truck, Latin Music, 5-10pm, Arcadia Creek, Kal.

Saturday, June 17 Juneteenth Community Day, 11am-2pm, Art Detectives: A Flag for Juneteenth, ages 4-8, 11-12, Kalamazoo Institute of Arts

Saturday, June 17

Rootead’s Juneteenth Family Reunion, 3-7pm Bronson Park, Kal.

Mondays, June 19, 26

Family Storytime, (4/under) 10-10:30, Clark Park, Vicksburg (rain space: Vicksburg Library)

Monday, June 19 STEAM Event, 11am-Noon Vicksburg District Library

Tuesday, June 20 West Michigan Area Show Artist Highlight, 12-1pm Kalamazoo Institute of Arts

Tuesday, June 20 Kalamazoo Food Truck, 5-7:30 Fannie Pell Park, Plainwell

Tuesday, June 20

Mystery Book Club Author Visit – The Maris Soule Series: East Crow and Die, 6:30pm Parchment Library

Wednesday, June 21 Book Review: Horse, by Geraldine Brooks, 12-1pm Kalamazoo Institute of Arts

Wednesday, June 21

Comedy Movie Club: Knives Out w/popcorn& drinks,(18+) 6-8pm, Vicksburg Library

Thurs., 6/22- Sun. 6/25 Hot Tub & Swim Spa Sale Thurs., 12-7, Fri. & Sat., 11-7, Sun., 11-4, Kalamazoo Expo Ctr.

Thursday, June 22

Make a Felted Bookmark, Needle felting with Holly Jensen Register: Parchment Library

Friday, June 23

Craft & Chat for Adults Bring your craft, 12:30-1:30pm, Vicksburg Library

Friday, June 23 Fridays at the Flats –Food Trucks/ music, 4:30-8:30pm Celery Flats, Portage

Saturday, June 24 Space STEAM Days at The Air Zoo, 11am Kalamazoo Air Zoo

Saturday, June 24

“The Decades,” with Chris Deamud Music, 7-11pm Green Door Distilling, Kal.

Monday, June 26

Movie Club: Mrs. Harris Goes To Paris (18+) w/tea& cookies 1 -3:30pm, Vicksburg Library

Tuesday, June 27

ARTbreak: Taxigami…What, How, and Why? 12-1pm Kalamazoo Institute of Arts

Tuesday, June 27

Kalamazoo Food Truck Warner Vineyards, Paw Paw, 5-7:30pm

Wednesday, June 28

STEM Family Programming 6pm, Parchment Library

Friday, June 30 Resurrection Blues Band, 8-10:30pm, Final Gravity