January 2015
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GOOD NEWS
January 2015
Winter Fun!
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January 2015
GOOD NEWS
Purify your indoor air Need some fresh air in your home or office? Now is a good time to green up your indoor landscape with new houseplants. Did you know that NASA scientists have found that houseplants can greatly improve the air quality in your home? When you have growing plants in your home or office, you are scrubbing harmful gasses out of the air through the everyday process of photosynthesis. No matter which ones you choose, houseplants naturally and effectively clean the air you breathe through their recycling of the air around them. Some plants are better than others in removing harmful household toxins, though. Some of the following are the best air cleaners and can even remove up to 90% of the chemicals in the air. This could mean a decreased risk of allergies, cancers, asthma and other diseases. Some “air cleaners” you are sure to enjoy include pothos, palms peace lilies, ferns
Want something that you can hang up? Two of the best hanging “air cleaner” plants are Boston ferns and Spider plants. Of course, the more vigorously your plants grow, the better job they will do for you. You should discuss with your houseplant professional about each plant’s needs for lighting, food and water. It’s also a good idea to dust the plant’s leaves off with a damp cloth to allow particles in the air to absorb well. Look at the space you have available and then choose one 10-12 inch potted plant per 100 square feet to effectively purify your air.
and many others. You may want to ask a houseplant expert to help you pick out plants that would do best in the lighting of your home of office.
Want something that can grow in a poorly lit area? Try a pothos plant. Want something that has blooms to brighten up your indoor living area? Get some orchids – their blooms can last 6-12 weeks or even longer!
Another benefit of houseplants is that they look much nicer than putting in an electrical air purifier! Now is a great time to start cleaning your indoor air with beautiful houseplants. Terrie Schwartz Wedel’s Nursery, Florist & Garden Center
inside- January 2015
Page 2............ Purify Your Indoor Air With Houseplants Page 3............ Parkview Yoga and Massage Page 4............. Remember When: Kalamazoo Sled Company Page 4............ Ask The Experts Page 5............ Does My Pet Need a Buddy? Page 6............ Book Reviews Page 7............ Recycle Electronics Page 8............ Cheer Up Your Winter Wardrobe Page 9............ A Mother and Daughter Adventure Series Page 10-11.... Winter Fun! Page 12.......... EAT: The Crew Page 13.......... Parenting: Anxiety is as anxiety does Page 14.......... Castor Oil: Your New Best Friend Page 15.......... Health: Love Page 16.......... Canine Safe Harbor Page 17.......... Day Trip: Local Libraries Page 18.......... About January Page 19.......... Calendar of FREE Events
Editor and Publisher: Jackie Merriam Graphic Designer: Lauren Ellis Good News Paper accepts advertising to defray the cost of production and distribution, and appreciates the support of its advertisers. This publication does not specifically endorse advertisers or their products or services. No part of this publication may be reprinted or otherwise reproduced without the written permission from the publisher.
To advertise in an upcoming issue, please contact Jackie Merriam 269 217-0977 goodnews.jackie@gmail.com
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January 2015
GOOD NEWS
parkview yoga & massage
When six dedicated women band together, there’s nothing they can’t accomplish. Which is exactly how Parkview Yoga and Massage began last spring. Committed to their clients, three yoga instructors and three massage therapists wanted to continue providing their services in the very location that their customers were accustomed to before the previous business was sold and subsequently moved. These invested and passionate women realized they were
like-minded and that they had a similar philosophy from a wellness perspective. They worked together to form their business model and decided to function as a co-op. Many had dreams of being in business for themselves, but the idea seemed overwhelming. However, taking on 1/6 of the responsibility seemed much less daunting. They divided the business tasks between themselves based on their interests and strengths.
When I met with a few of the owners, Nancy and Sidney, they stressed that the level of trust amongst the owners is complete and they have a high level of respect for one another. They not only have a professional relationship, but a personal connection. Come and enjoy the sense of community that Parkview Yoga and Massage provides. See their website: for contact information and schedules: parkviewyogaandmassage.com. They are located at 3331 Greenleaf Blvd., at the
Parkview Shoppes. The owners are: (Yoga) Nancy Diment, Veronique Jewell and Marne J. Apolo, (Massage) Sidney Mueller, Pam Shelthrown and Sharon Betzler. Parkview Yoga and Massage also provides space for a few additional independent yoga contractors: Christine Peckels, Jean Ketchum and Mary Beth Thomas. By Jackie Merriam
Welcome to the Good News Paper Happy New Year and Happy Winter! The month of January has always held a special place in my heart because it is the month marking my birth. As a child I felt so lucky to have my birthday in the dead of winter; I loved going sledding, making snow angels & snowmen, ice-skating and just frolicking in the snow. This blind excitement continued until the year a huge snowstorm threatened to cancel my much-anticipated slumber party. A few friends and their parents, including my best friend, braved the weather and not only saved the day, but renewed my excitement of having a January birthday.
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-Jackie Merriam-
Cover Photo taken at Bella Patina. A great store in Downtown Kalamazoo
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January 2015
GOOD NEWS
Remember When Kalamazoo sled company The Company began in the 1870’s in Grand Rapids as the Page Manufacturing Company. Originally they made wooden components for buggies until 1894 when they were reorganized under the name of the Kalamazoo Sled Company, and moved to Kalamazoo. By 1905 the company had absorbed a smaller competitor, the Columbia Sled Company and became the leading manufacturer of children’s sleds.
For many years the Kalamazoo Sled Company was one of the largest manufacturers of children’s sleds in the world. The factory operated for more than 75 years on Crosstown Parkway in Kalamazoo, and employed over 100 people.
Over the years the Kalamazoo Sled Company manufactured a wide variety of goods from croquet sets to wooden handles for feather dusters to lawn furniture and of course, sleds. Their Champion line of sleds was popular with the young and old alike and came in a variety of sizes and styles. There was even a baby sled that parents could use to
replace the carriage in the snowy months. During the 1950’s, the Kalamazoo Sled Company introduced the Champion Flying Disc, a round plastic and fiberglass sled they co-produced with Camfield Fiber Glass Plastics Inc. in Zeeland, Michigan. In 1956, the first year of their production, the Flying Discs were available in orange and green and retailed for about $6.00. The new toy was a big hit for several years. In 1962 the Kalamazoo Sled Company acquired the J. L. Weiner Company, a small toy company based in St. Louis and changed the name to Kalamazoo Sled and Toys, Inc. In the years that followed, the company took on production of new line of toys and added a line of high quality aluminum lawn furniture.
The Gladding Corporation of New York bought out the Kalamazoo Sled Company in 1968. The local management remained for a few years, but in 1972 they consolidated all of their operations to a plant in Maine and the Kalamazoo landmark was abandoned. Unfortunately in 1974 the empty building, located at 844 E. Crosstown Parkway, was torched by an arsonist and burned to the ground. By Jackie Merriam
Experts Q & A Health Food Q: How can I “feel better” this winter season?
A: Taking better care of our physical body helps us to keep healthy. Many factors contribute to our overall wellness. Mike nderlin One important factor is our intestinal flora (the bacteria found in our gut). Our home to over 500 bacterial species. “visitors” form a bioreactor, which ates digestion, provides nutrients, aids ularity and helps form the immune m. Research shows that probiotics can e multiple benefits for our immune m. When probiotics are abundant r body, it’s harder for bacteria’s that illness to get a foothold. Not all tics are equal. It is important to om a brand you can trust to ensure y and potency. At NHC, we offer a election of probiotics. One of our es, Solaray’s Multidophilus 12 is a otency, multi-strain probiotic and on l month long.
Foot Health
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A: The human foot Steven Smith is very complex with C.Ped.,MC. 26 bones, 33 joints and more than 100 muscles, tendons and ligaments. Over time,Layour feet w ic Chiropract ng Heari elongate with just slight changes in width. The difference between a size eight and a size nine is only about one third of an inch, so your feet should be measured on a regular per.com oodnews-pa basis. sit www.g out more vi To find
Shoes that are too tight not only affect your feet but your posture and Contact Jackie Merriam, 217-0977 attitude as well, so make sure you can or goodnews.jackie@gmail.com still wiggle your toes the next time you go shoe shopping.
Health
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January 2015
GOOD NEWS
Pets does my pet need a buddy? extremely dominant pet would be better matched with a laid back companion rather than another dominant animal who will fight for territory and attention. The secret to having long term success lies in the introduction of a new pet to the resident cat or dog. We have a great series of articles on pet introductions, which you can reach through the links below.
Have you ever wondered if your furry friend needs the companionship of another animal? Sure, you’re best pals and provide your cat or dog with all the love and attention you can, but is it enough? You might feel a bit guilty about leaving your pet alone for many hours of the day if you work or attend school. If this has been on your mind, consider the following tips to decide whether adopting an additional canine or feline friend is right for you and your current pet . •First ask if you would enjoy having an additional pet. If your current pet is all you can afford, and you don’t want an additional furry family member, then you should not adopt any more animals. Even if you feel that your best dog or cat friend would benefit from the companionship of another animal, this newly adopted pet will ultimately look to you for love and care. If you adopt another pet just to satisfy the social needs of a pet you already have, then you will do a disservice to the new animal who you may
ultimately decide you can’t keep. •Consider the real needs of your current cat or dog: does he or she really want another animal around? Is your pet a “party animal” who loves to socialize or a recluse who is content to be alone? Remember that your home is also your pet’s territory and a newcomer might not be welcome. Dogs usually make up their minds right away whether a new dog or even a cat will be a good addition to the family, according to many experts. Cats, on the other hand, may take a long time to adjust to a new cat or dog and will need to be carefully introduced to any new pet. If you leave your pet alone for long periods of time, a companion might be just right for keeping your canine or feline buddy happy and engaged in play. •If you decide that your cat or dog really would benefit from having a companion, you must also consider the personality of the two. An older quiet animal will not be likely to welcome the antics of a youngster. An
experienced “matchmakers” who can help you find a new pet who will fit right in, so give us a call today! By Karren Jensen KAR Friends March 2014 reprinted with permission from Kalamazoo Animal Rescue
A single cat or dog is a joy to add to your family, and multiple pets multiply the joy, as long as there is peace among them and a sense of belonging to a loving family. If this sounds like the right decision for you and your current animal buddy, we would like to help you find the right match. Our volunteers are
269-343-5386
Children are our top priority We provide comprehensive dental care for children ages 1-12 including special needs patients Wishing you aNew Merry Year! Christmas! Happy Accepting New Patients Kalamazoo Pediatric Dentistry Ryan Basler, DDS 1900 Whites Road Kalamazoo, MI 49008 kzoopd@gmail.com Check out our website at www.kzoopd.com for more information.
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January 2015
“Solitude is as needful to the imagination as society is wholesome for the character.” James Russel Lowell
Where Dogs get a Chance for a Better Life! Adopt – See our website for available dogs Volunteer – Dog Walking / Socializing Volunteers are always needed
Donate – Dog food, treats, toys and bedding are gladly accepted
Come visit during our
Open House
Second Saturday of every month 2-4pm 8171 West KL Avenue Kalamazoo
375-2736
GOOD NEWS
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January 2015
GOOD NEWS
recycle electronics Happy New Year! Make your New Year’s Resolution a promise to be greener! Throwing away electronics, such as computers, cell phones, and printers, can be very damaging to the environment. Not only does plastic take billions of years to biodegrade (breakdown), but also the materials used in batteries and the ink from ink cartridges can leak and
get into waterways, including our ground water. In the U.S. over 350 million ink cartridges are put into landfills each year. Every ink cartridge that is kept out of a landfill saves two ounces of oil and about two pounds of waste. Cartridge World is a wonderful company that offers recycling option for ink & toner cartridges, cell phones, printers, computers, and secure paper
shredding. The Kalamazoo location will donate all recycling proceeds to a local charity, Kairos Dwelling, a home for the terminally ill to be cared for free of charge. Cartridge World is also a great place to buy ink cartridges, since they use recycled cartridges, you can get a much better deal on your ink. They have multiple locations including in Kalamazoo (on Stadium Drive), Grand Rapids, and more. To find out more information and to find more locations, go to www. cartridgeworld.com. Other options include HP and Batteries Plus. HP recycles consumer and home office equipment (i.e. TVs, computers, etc.), business equipment, posters, batteries from laptops and smartphones, HP product packaging, cell phones, and HP ink cartridges and printers. Be sure to go to www.hp.com/recycle to learn more, because HP has many different places to drop off different items. For example, you can drop off ink cartridges at Staples, Office Max, Wal-Mart, or Office Depot. Batteries Plus recycles all kinds of batteries, cell/ smartphones, laptop/notebooks, MP3s, and PDAs. Batteries Plus is located in Portage (on Westnedge), Battle Creek, and more. Go to www.batteriesplus.com to learn more.
“To change one’s life: Start immediately. Do it flamboyantly. No exceptions.” William James
Judy Smith High School Student Galesburg-Augusta/KAMSC
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January 2015
GOOD NEWS
cheer up your winter wardrobe has to look the same way as the weather – gray, drab, and boring. By the time January returns, yes, even our wardrobes have gotten depressed. You may (accidentally of course) find yourself into the habit of selecting black, brown, and gray clothing that seems perfectly fitting to the environment around us – cold and reserved.
Why not cheer up your wardrobe this month by adding some fun color choices
to get you through until the Spring season of fashion returns – bringing along with it bright colors, bountiful fabrics, polka-dotted patterns, and the return of “Pretty!” It’s the beginning of a brand new year! By the time January hits in Michigan, we are a few months in to cold and freezing temperatures and less-than-sunny-skies with looming gray clouds that linger around our heads. However, this doesn’t mean our wardrobe
Here are a couple of ways to help you cheer up your wardrobe in January:
SCARVES
– Scarves remain to be a very trendy accessory these days. Manufacturers have caught the trend too and there is a massive amount of choices in patterns, colors, and fabrics in the marketplace. Instead of picking your staple “I-wear-this-everyday-because-its-so-warm” scarf that I’m sure is in some form of dark pattern or color, select a brightly colored cashmere sweater instead and find a scarf with flowers on it that include the color of your sweater. Still love wearing black? Wear solid black on top and bottom but pair it with a scarf that is bright in color – teal, green, red and orange are all hot
colors this winter. You could also select one with romantic patterns or appliques that include trailing lace, sequins or beading. By choosing a scarf you may be prone to pulling out in April instead of January, you will add whimsy and fun to your clothing and will ultimately appear brighter adding a little cheer to your outfit.
BOLD COLORED
BOOTS
– Boots are a necessity in Michigan with the snow, wet, and cold. But why do boots have to be the traditional black or brown? Another trend that’s swept the fashion market is boots in every style, color, and pattern. These days, there are a realm of bold colored boots that are not only functional but are funky and would be an ideal splash of cheer to your winter outfit. I stopped dead in my tracks just weeks ago when I spotted a woman wearing these amazing paisley boots that went to her knees. Her outfit was a standard one – solid black leggings with a long tunic sweater; however, her boots were not only made for walking – they were made for stopping and gawking because they were so stunning. A simple thing like selecting bold in color or pattern boots you normally would not consider is a wonderful way to add cheer to your wardrobe.
be empowered to survive the rest of the winter months with a spring in your step and a splash of color that’s pleasing to all you meet. Mrs. Janice Glasser is an expert in Vintage clothing and styling. Follow her on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ TheVintageStylist. For 15 years she has partnered with her mother in operating The Clothing Connection Consignment Boutique in Kalamazoo
By utilizing these tips, you will
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January 2015
GOOD NEWS
In Search of our Super-Powers A Mother and Daughter Adventure Series
Jane: We are not lost—we are thwarted. My daughters, Ellen, Martha, and I had intended to visit a favored cafe, but on this cold, blustery Sunday in January, we discover that it is closed. Where shall we spend our weekend energy and money now? Martha, sitting meekly in the back seat of the Subaru, says, “I love zoos. Does Detroit have one?” Ellen and I turn around in our seats and stare our astonishment in her direction. “Yes, it does, but…the zoo…in January?” “It’s ten degrees outside!” “Seriously?” Martha gives us one of those charmingly hopeful smiles. “It’s a perfect day for the zoo because it won’t be crowded.” We turn the car onto I-94, facing straight into one of the chilliest afternoons imaginable.
We learn some things about the winter habits of animals and people. For instance: Bactrian camels like to romp in snow. Penguins smile a lot. Parents take small children to the zoo in January and insist that they run between exhibits to stay warm. Snakes are boring when they are cold. Young couples hold hands and stroll slowly in the icy wind as if it’s May. And the bird exhibit makes us feel like it is May. We conclude that, early symptoms of frostbite aside, it was a perfect day for the zoo.
the opposite of the logic she used Nearing the exit, we all agree it to bring me here in January. was a day well spent. Our friend Sure enough, all the animals even makes a surprising revelaEllen: Five months later and it are playing to their adoring fans. tion. “I hadn’t been to a zoo in ten actually is May. Gorgeous blue It turns out wolverines, though years,” he admits “but this was fun. skies welcome Martha and me as ferocious, are a bit clumsy. Parents Good idea, thanks for inviting we stroll up to a familiar set of still encourage kids to run about, me.” entrance gates. The third person in penguins smell fishier in warm I can take no credit for this, but our group eyes the excited throng weather, and young couples stroll Martha nods happily. “Anytime! I surging about us. “There are a lot slower than the rest of us. But always bring my friends to zoos— of people here,” he observes warily. the Bactrian camels are definitely it’s my superpower.” “Hundreds of kids.” grumpy about the rise in It’s true. On this Memorial temperature. By Jane & Ellen Knuth Day weekend it’s hard to tell which side of the fences the wild animals are on. My friend looks as if he envies them their reinforced enclosures. STOP IN & CHECK THEM OUT! Martha says, “No worries: the weather is so nice, all the animals will be out and active. It’s perfect.” It occurs to me that this is
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January 2015
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Winter
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January 2015
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Fun
Photos Taken by Steve Ellis, Lauren Ellis & Nelson Photography Courtesy of Echo Valley.
GOOD NEWS
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January 2015
EAT
The Crew Family Restaurant and Bakery puts the emphasis on Family. Not only do they provide amazing service to families, but The Crew team also considers themselves one big family. The Crew restaurant and bakery was founded by a group of ten people who worked in the same building, when it was the Perkins Restaurant before it unexpectedly closed it’s doors in 2011’. Although they had to start over and move on to different restaurants and careers, the majority of them stayed in touch. They didn’t find a new place to call home right away, but many of them ended up working at the same restaurant. They quickly realized that they were bonded not only as co-workers, but also as family. Thus, began their mission to bring family back into family dining, and collectively open a restaurant and bakery of their own in the very place where many of
their careers had begun. At The Crew, they serve you what you want, when you want it. You can have breakfast, lunch, dinner, appetizers or dessert anytime you want it. The menu is chocked full of delicious choices, from old time favorites like open faced beef & turkey sandwiches to wraps, salad bread bowls, pasta and seafood. On a recent visit, I enjoyed a create-your-own omelet and flavorful pancake that was fluffy on the inside and crispy on the outside, and was served with warm syrup. The service was also top-notch; after all, our server was one of the owners.
GOOD NEWS
the Crew
The Crew welcomes families with open arms and is committed to providing an excellent dining experience. Stop in and enjoy The Crew, open 365 days a year from 5am – 10pm. Located at 3810 E. Cork Street at Sprinkle Rd., right off of I-94. Contact 337-9800 for general questions, take-out, special orders and private parties. For
menus and additional information visit their website at thecrewrestaurant.com. Please support The Crew during the road construction that will be occurring through spring of 2015’. By Jackie Merriam
The bakery offers a wide variety of sweets including brownies, muffins, pumpkin rolls, no-bake cookies, big cookies (the size of a dinner plate), fruit pies, crème pies, cheesecakes and éclairs upon request. Their prices are great, fruit pies starting at only $1.99/ slice or $9.99/whole pie.
Contractor’s Liability as low as $250 per year. Also great rates on Workers Comp. & Commercial Auto
Parkview Yoga and Massage A Community of Independent Practitioners
Yoga
Massage
Nancy Diment
Christine Peckels
Sidney Mueller
Veronique Jewell
Jean Ketchum
Pam Sheltrown
Marne J. Apolo
Mary Beth Thomas
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13
January 2015
Mindful Parenting
Ever notice as a parent that when you are anxious about something, one or many of your children begin to fret as well? Or, ever experience that morning dread of stomach aches and headaches, crying and distress over going to school or daycare? Anxiety is a trait that is common from generation to generation, often more pronounced in our children than we remember in ourselves. It is even more evident in our young children because of their inability to manage emotions. Anxious parents often model anxious fearful responses and irritable behaviors, without knowing it.
on Human Development (Linda Ashford, Paris Goodyear-Brown, and Patti van Eys) understood the need for parents to manage anxiety, and also, knew that many parents, for the most part, did not know how. They created the acronym S.O.O.T.H.E. to assist parents in soothing their child’s anxiety and to feel more competent as parents. S. Soft tone of voice. Instead of reacting to your child’s tantrum by getting louder and more stern, calm your voice, and soften your facial expression too. O. Organize. Anxious children lose the ability to problem-solve or to make choices. Rather than asking what they want, tell them what is next or what they must do. O. Offer. Give anxious children narrowed choices, i.e. this toy or that toy; toast or muffin. Leaving choices open ended, (‘what do you want for lunch?’) can be more anxiety producing than kind.
The most important thing to remember about anxiety is that it is a natural occurring emotion and you cannot make anxiety happy! Anxiety, like other more negative emotions, must be managed. Because young children do not yet have the ability to think about their thinking, parents need to manage anxiety for them until they can learn to do it themselves. Researchers at Vanderbilt University Kennedy Center for Research
T. Touch. A soothing back rub, smoothing their hair, holding their hand or cuddle time at the end of a frustrating time can be rewarding to you and to your child. H. Hear. We interpret behavior as ‘bad’ or ‘defiant’ in need of correction when actually, our child is just anxious and expressing it poorly. Take time to actually ‘hear’ what your child is trying to communicate with their behaviors. Remember: calm the anxiety FIRST before attempting to teach
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GOOD NEWS
anxiety is as anxiety does
better behavior or coping. E. End (and let go!). This refers to both your reaction as a parent and to the child’s distress. When anxiety escalates to tantrums parents get agitated too! Calm your child before resuming normal activities and parents let it go! Do not use this as a ‘teachable moment’ because the moment is gone. You might need some recovery time yourself, but it is at
this point that your child needs a hug. Let go of the ‘what if ’s’ of next time and be reassuring in the moment. As I said before, you cannot make anxiety happy. But if you take small steps to manage anxiety in your small ones you will have more pleasant days ahead. By Dr. Susan M. Carter, PhD LP
14
January 2015
relaxation
GOOD NEWS
Deep Pressure vs. Deep Tissue
Castor Oil: Which is right Your new for bestyou? friend
So you’ve decided to make a New Year’s resolution to get healthy. You start going to the gym and exercising more frequently, but all of a sudden….. your joints ache and you can hardly get out of bed. Hey! Who’s bright idea was this anyway?! Yours and it’s a good one- you just need a little castor oil in your life. When you overuse your muscles and joints they swell and become inflamed. This swelling, in turn, causes pain. Logically, if you reduce the inflammation the pain will diminish. Here is where castor oil comes in to play. Castor oil has many joint and musculature benefits mainly thanks to something called ricinoleic acid. Ricinoleic acid has
•Cover the pad with a plastic wrap. •Place a hot water bottle or heating pad over the plastic wrapped cotton pad. The plastic wrap will prevent the water bottle or heating pad from getting oily. •Leave the cotton pad on for 45 minutes to an hour, once per day.
anti-inflammatory properties and castor oil consists of around 90 per cent ricinoleic acid. When applied to the skin, castor oil sooths muscle and joint aches. The best and most effective way to utilize the benefits of castor oil is to create a castor oil pack:
•Make a small pad by folding a small piece of unbleached cotton flannelette into 3 or 4 layers.
This Castor Oil pack can be reused. Simply place it into a plastic ziplock bag and refrigerate it until it is ready to be used again. Rebecca Byron; LMT, CAOBT Owner of Water’s Edge Day Spa
•Dip the cotton pad into Castor Oil and place it on to the affected joint or muscle.
“you never” sausage peppers recipe by Kurt Pugh You will need: 30 medium to large jalapeno peppers Block of Philly cream cheese ½ cup of parmesan cheese ½ cup (or more) diced onions 1 tube of Bob Evans Italian sausage (or whatever kind you like) Cut off tips of peppers on both ends – then slice pepper in ½ length-wise to make your pepper
canoe’s – de-seed the inside of the peppers * (use a rubber glove on the hand you handle the peppers with – otherwise the pepper juice will get absorbed through your skin – ouch!) Cook sausage in large frying pan – poking the sausage with a spatula to make the sausage into smaller pieces as it cooks When sausage is almost done – sprinkle onions in and cook about 2 more minutes or until done Turn burner down to low – leave sausage & onions in pan – add the cream cheese in pieces and sprinkle the parmesan cheese in with the sausage – use wooden
spoon to “smoosh” the mixture until consistent Use a small spoon to put the mixture in the pepper canoes Put peppers on a large, flat baking dish
Cook peppers at 325-degrees for about 15 minutes – or until the mixture in the peppers “sizzle” Remove and place on a serving dish and enjoy with your favorite beverage While you proudly exclaim to your friends… “You never” sausage peppers!
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15
January 2015
GOOD NEWS
health :Love Now that the holidays are over and the new year resolution list has been written, I have a question. Will you be able to remember in December 2015 what gifts you received in December 2014? And if you can, will you be able to say they made a difference in your life? My guess is no. So what’s going on? It’s a lot of distraction from asking ourselves a basic question, what will make me happy? In order to be open to the answer, we should start by asking the right question: What, other than myself, has the power to make me happy? And answering: nothing! A follow-up question might be: How do I begin the process of bringing lasting happiness to myself ?
The answer is by showing the world that you can be a more loving person.
somehow considered inappropriate owing to the increased isolation and fearfulness of our society. People have been healed by touch! We, too, can demonstrate our love by responsibly and gently caressing or touching someone.
Love and Be Loved”, Sam Keen says “the price of love is paying attention to someone who is familiar, the direct opposite of taking someone for granted. It is the first act of self limitation, the first gift we make in the act of loving.” It is liberating to realize that we come to love not my finding the perfect
person, but by learning to see the imperfect person perfectly. One can only pay attention by being fully present. •Touch Someone. The restorative power of touch has been lost. It’s either been relegated to only to our most intimate moments or
In the spirit of making new year resolutions, let me offer some suggestions as to how that process might begin. •Be Present. There is an incredible amount of time we spend thinking either about the past or about the future. Trying to love in the past is nostalgia; trying to love in the future is fantasy. The only time we can express our love is NOW. The present moment is always available for being a more loving person.
•Be Compassionate. Compassion requires that we experience the connection with our created world. It demands that we acknowledge that there is suffering in the world and have the courage to experience that suffering. This not the message we hear from our “feel good” society. Love is founded, not only on the knowledge but the realization that we all share in mortality and we all struggle, no matter what our political or religious affiliation, race, or sexual orientation happen to be. •Forgive. This one gift we can give someone and ourselves at the same time. We need to forgive in order to preserve our own freedom. Without forgiveness we become trapped in a cycle of resentment and revenge. There is no escape from this without saying “I forgive you.” While we’re at it, perhaps we can ask for forgiveness for the hurt we have caused others. Love can be measured by how much it changes US. It can be transforming, something that really can bring lasting happiness. However, in order for us to get it, we must give it first, for it is loving that we are loved. Ken Dettloff ACE YMCA Wellness Coach.
•Pay Attention. In his book, “To
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16
January 2015
GOOD NEWS
canine safe harbor Canine Safe Harbor: Where Dogs get a Chance for a Better Life! Canine Safe Harbor began in 2006 by Willie Wicks and her husband, Charlie, to give dogs who have lost their families a chance at a better life. Their dogs get comfortable, spacious living quarters, outside exercise areas and loving volunteers to help with their rehabilitation while they wait for their forever homes.
or neutered and up to date on all medicines including the veterinarian paperwork to prove it before they take their dogs. However, all animals they rescue do not meet those requirements. While with Canine Safe Harbor, the animals enjoy walks on wooded trails, grooming, play times out-of-doors and lots of love and treats. They are fed twice a day and when volunteers are there, are walked twice a day. They do their best to give them a good
to avoid guidelines that put limits on the dogs they can accept. Canine Safe Harbor gladly accepts donations of food, treats, bedding, and toys and, of course, the time graciously given the dogs by their wonderful team of volunteers. The fees they charge barely cover the medical and food costs incurred while housing and rehabilitating the animals. Canine Safe Harbor depends on its wonderful staff and team of volunteers to provide the best possible care for their animals while they are staying with them. Additional volunteers are always needed as dog walkers, who not only walk the dogs but socialize the dogs as well.
They typically accept ownersurrendered animals. Since they do not have the income to provide extensive health care, they ask owners to have their dogs spayed
time while waiting for their new home. Willie funds the kennel expenses, as it is not a non-profit. They chose not to become a non-profit
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The dogs available for adoption can be viewed on their website. If you would like to adopt a dog from Canine Safe Harbor, please call or send an email to caninesafeharbor@yahoo.com to set up a date and time to visit their kennel. You will need to fill out an application that will be
reviewed confidentially by Willie herself. For more information on volunteering, adopting or donating please visit their website at caninesafeharbor.com or contact them by phone at 3752736. Stop in and visit during one of their monthly open house events on the second Saturday of each month from 2-4pm; the next one is on January 10th. Canine Safe Harbor is located at 8171 West KL Avenue in Kalamazoo. By Jackie Merriam
17
January 2015
GOOD NEWS
Day trip Local Libraries
If you are looking for something to do, look to the local libraries. I am amazed at the number of events and the variety of activities that our local libraries now offer. They are no longer only a place to check out books and do research, but place for the community to gather.
aged to interact with the other children, sing, dance and be silly.
and duct tape creations have been offered over the past months.
In the Preschooler programs, they have a little more structure to begin to prepare children for school. Story time, interactive learning, singing and making crafts are a few of the activities children will enjoy. The Kalamazoo Public Library Central Branch offers an event on the second Saturday of every month that include stories, activities, prizes and a special guest.
Adult programs include an array of interesting topics, which have recently included Intro to Genealogy, Urban Fiction Discussions, WWII Letters – A Soldier’s Story, Kalamazoo In Real Photos and many more.
Look for the schedule of upcoming events that your local library has to offer for yourself, your children or your grandchildren and plan a visit soon. By Jackie Merriam
There is fun and exciting things in store for school aged children as well. Recently Clifford the Horse and his trainer appeared a local KPL Library, a Food Fairy celebrated Healthy foods and made Smoothies with a bike blender, and an Alligator & Reptile appearance. For the very young, most libraries offer short, high-energy activities perfect for toddlers either weekly or multiple days a week. At the library in my community, this class is appropriately titled Little Wigglers. Children are encour-
Libraries have gone a bit further by incorporating events on topics that would be of interest to tweens and teens. The fun and interesting topics encourage teens to frequent the library. Topics such as jewelry making, learning to make comics
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18
January 2015
GOOD NEWS
10,000 Copies of the Good News Paper are delivered to over
600 locations throughout
History:
January was named after the Roman god Janus. Janus is also the Roman word for door. The god Janus had two faces, which allowed him to look forwards into the coming year and backwards into the past year. The original Roman calendar only had 10 months. January and February were not included, but were added later.
Fun Facts about January
•On average, it is the coldest month of the year in the Northern Hemisphere. •It is the second month of winter. •In the Southern Hemisphere January is a summer month the equivalent of July.
Southwest Michigan each month! If you would like to find out more about advertising in this great new local paper, call or email Jackie at 269 217-0977 goodnews.jackie@gmail.com www.goodnews-paper.com
•Sometimes the Saxons, people from north Germany who migrated to the island of Britain around the 5th century, called January the wolf month because hungry wolves would come into their towns searching for food this time of year. •For a long period of European history, the start of the New Year occurred in March. Courtesy of ducksters.com
Some Important people in history are celebrated during the month of January. January 11 - Amelia Earhart Day
On January 11, 1935, Amelia Earhart became the first person, man or woman, to fly solo across the pacific. Another famous flight was her nonstop solo flight across the Atlantic, May 20-21, 1932, the first for a woman.
January 17 – Benjamin Franklin’s Day
This day is to celebrate the birthday of Benjamin Franklin. Some schools start Thrift Week on his birthday because he recommended thrift.
January 19 - Martin Luther King Jr.’s Day
Observed the third Monday of the month to honor Martin Luther King Jr., his birthday January 15, 1929. Courtesy of holidaysmart.com
“The more one does and sees and feels, the more one is able to do, and the more genuine may be one’s appreciation of fundamental things like home, and love, and understanding companionship.”
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19
January 2015
GOOD NEWS
free january Events Through Jan.19, 2015 Voices for Social Justice Exhibit Kalamazoo Valley Museum 373-7990 Through May 17, 2015 Kalamazoo for the Union Exhibit Civil War history through the Eyes of people in Kalamazoo County 373-7990 January 1 New Year’s Day Kalamazoo Valley Museum 1-5pm 373-7990
January 9 Art Hop Exhibit At W. Michigan Glass Art Center In Park Trades Center, Ste. 100 Downtown Kalamazoo 5-9pm 552-9802 January 9 Art Hop: Mid-season Kick-off Dixon’s Violin (digital violin) Kalamazoo Valley Museum 6pm 373-7990
January 17 The Civic Academy of Theatre Arts Open House Carver Center Noon – 2pm 343-1313 January 17 Crybaby Concert Kalamazoo Public Library Oshtemo Branch Perfect for children 5 & under 11:00-11:45 am 382-7774
January 3 First Saturday Stories, activities, guests & prizes Kalamazoo Public Library Central Branch 2-3:30pm 342-9837 January 4 Sunday Series: Murders Most Foul Kalamazoo Valley Museum Mary Jane Stryker Theater (Seating is limited) 1:30 pm 373-7990 January 6 ARTBreak Film: The DaVinci Detective Kalamazoo Institute of Arts 12pm – 1pm 349-7775 January 9 Art Hop Downtown Kalamazoo & In Park Trades Center 5 – 9pm 342-5059
January 19 Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Kalamazoo Valley Museum 1-5pm 373-7990 January 21 Acclarion – Canada’s premier Accordion and clarinet ensemble Kalamazoo Public Library Central Library 7-8pm 342-9837 January 24 Weekend Kalamazoo Indoor Flea & Farmers Market Kalamazoo County Expo Center 8am-3pm 383-8761 January 24 North Versus South Learn more about the Civil War, Abraham Lincoln and life on both sides by creating arts & crafts 1-4pm 3737990
January 10 Heroes In Time Discover local heroes by creating artifacts reproductions and going on a scavenger hunt through the history gallery Kalamazoo Valley Museum 1-4pm 373-7990 January 14-18 Model Train Auction Kalamazoo County Expo Center 8am-6pm 781-7100
January 17 Snow Shoe Nature Hike: Winter Animal Signs West Lake Nature Preserve 2pm 381-1574
January 31 Winter Jamboree Cross country skiing, sledding, Kayak sledding and snowman/igloo building Milham Park Golf Club 9:30am-1pm Cross Country skiing classes 9:30-11am & 11am-1pm 337-8295
January 18 Sunday Series: A Black Woman’s Journey to the 21st Century Kalamazoo Valley Museum Mary Jane Stryker Theater (Seating is limited) 1:30pm 373-7990
Embrace the beauty of winter and join in the fun at the Free Winter Jamboree! Join the City of Portage Parks and Recreation department and Lee’s Adventure Sports on Saturday, January 31st for a FREE event at Milham Park Golf Course! Winter Jamboree is a community event that offers opportunities to try out many winter activities. Enjoy cross-country skiing, snowshoeing as well as kayak sledding! In addition, you are welcome to sled down the hill (bring your sled/ tube) and participate in Igloo building and a friendly Snowman Building Competition. This is a great way to get out of the house and enjoy the winter weather we are blessed with in Kalamazoo! T Cross country ski classes are offered from 9:30-11am, while the Winter Jamboree will take place from 11am until 1pm. Milham Park Golf Course is located at 4200 Lovers Lane in Kalamazoo. For more information contact Portage Parks and Recreation at 329-4522.
20
January 2015
GOOD NEWS
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