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May 2017
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Gardening beauty and brawn
At our garden center, we hear from hundreds of gardeners who crave high-impact, low-maintenance gardens. They want ‘drop-dead’ gorgeous plants that also benefit pollinators without requiring a lot of water, fertilizer or handholding….and that don’t drop dead after being planted.
Here are some of our ‘Beauty and Brawn’ picks: Perennial Dianthus
These drought tolerant, long blooming party girls will have you doing the happy dance. Flashy magenta or pink flowers cover lovely blue foliage in early summer and again in fall. They
work well in the landscape as well as containers. Increased heat tolerance and deer resistance are two more of these no-fuss winners ‘party hats’.
Nepeta faasenii ‘Cat’s Meow’ and ‘Purrsian Blue’ ‘Cat’s Meow’ and ‘Purrsian Blue’ are compact, tidy selections that deliver months of bloom, to the delight of bees, birds and butterflies. These ‘kitties’ are highly heat and drought tolerant, plus ‘less is best’ concerning fertilizer. Try pairing them with orange Hemerocallis and Coreopsis for eye-catching contrast.
Hosta
Who doesn’t like Hosta with large, dazzling heart-shaped, highly tex-
tured leaves painted frosty blue, apple-green and creamy white? Top this eye-candy with white flowers that attract hummingbirds and you’ve got a garden thriller.
Pervoskia atriplicifolia ‘Denim ‘n Lace’
This Russian Sage has looks and swagger. ‘Denim ‘n Lace’ is a striking fashion statement. This shorter, compact, stiff stemmed beauty covers itself with billowy, sky-blue flowers on amethyst calyxes. Like other Perovskia, it is highly heat and drought tolerant; attractive to pollinators and deer resistant. It is superb in containers as well as the landscape.
Gypsophila paniculata ‘Festival Star’
Star is the key word! Lovely greygreen foliage is blanketed by pristine white, airy flowers month after month with zero deadheading. Highly drought tolerant and deer resistant add to these noteworthy traits. Pair ‘Festival Star’ and ‘Summer Sparkles’ with easy-care Oso Easy shrub roses to have a long-lived stunning vase arrangement right in your garden. Terrie Schwartz Wedel’s Nursery, Florist & Garden Center
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remember when the carousel The Carousel old-fashioned ice cream parlor was a place where childhood memories were made for those who grew up in the Kalamazoo area. They were located at 1722 W. Main Street in the West Main Hill area for over three decades. Comments on the popular Vanished Kalamazoo website include: “Their hot fudge was the best!” “It was our favorite place.” “Love the way they over packed their ice cream containers to go.” Many others cited their favorite flavors as the best around including, mocha chip, strawberry, orange pineapple and French mint chip ice creams. Dorothy Kibbey owned and managed the Carousel that was open 7 days a week for 36 years. When they first opened in 1952, an ice cream cone sold for 6 cents/single 11 cents/double. In 1988, the year they closed, ice cream cones only cost 80 cents/single and 95 cents/ double. A fresh cup of coffee was 30 cents and a glass of milk was 35 cents - not a bad deal! The ice cream parlor remained unchanged over the years, with the original soda fountain, Coke machine and curved counter and soda bar stools. It was a family friendly atmosphere with many long-standing workers ready to greet you. Originally the carousel offered its own homemade ice cream until the ice cream machine broke down and Sherman’s in South Haven began
sandwiches the way your mother would. If you ordered an egg salad sandwich, they would peel the fresh hard-boiled egg right in front of you and mix it with mayonnaise and serving it on bread fresh out of the toaster. The Carousel building and two other businesses were purchased in 1988 to make room for a Walgreen’s Store. The location now houses a Dollar Tree Store. The Carousel business was sold and was moved down the street to 1710 W. Main Street.
supplying the ice cream. West Main Elementary was located at the top of W. Main Hill and many mothers would buy birthday party ice cream from the Carousel rather than the grocery
store. Hillside Junior High School was also nearby, offering the perfect stop for kids to head over for a soda pop or ice cream treat after school. Many people enjoyed the Carousel for lunch too. They made their
In 1998 when Todd and Pam Meyer were looking to start a restaurant called Nina’s Café, they were offered the former Carousel location along with the space next to it with the condition that they would continue operating the Carousel for 5 years. The restaurant was called Nina’s Café & Carousel. The Meyer’s continued operating the Carousel along with their restaurant until 2006, when the road construction caused the demise of ice cream sales and the Carousel was closed. Nina’s Café & Carousel became Nina’s Café and continues to be a popular breakfast and lunch destination. On a side note: Conrad Kaufman’s carousel mural can be seen inside of Nina’s Cafe. Jackie Merriam
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My grandkids started swimming lessons a few months ago and each week I get to see them wearing ear-to-ear grins
throughout their half hour class. I went the first week to help my daughter with the boys, and haven’t been able to stay away since. I love to see their excitement and enjoyment while frolicking in the water. They have always enjoyed anything to do with water: baths, squirt guns, watering cans, water parks…you get the picture. I figured there must be a little more to it and Googled “children and water” to find out more. My Google search revealed that water is not only fun, it is a sensory extravaganza for children as they feel the wetness, hear the splashes and sprinkles, see the bubbles and waves and even taste the droplets. Water is also a sensational learning experience for children. The budding sci-
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entist pours, splashes and giggles, observing cause and effect, experimenting with water’s fascinatingly fluid properties, and being introduced to basic physics (what floats and what sinks). Water play can lead to new biological adventures as well with the variety of life forms that are supported by water like fish and frogs. Playing in the water offers the perfect opportunity to teach water safety. Supervision and education will keep children safe around water. Encouraging kids to enjoy the water, from toddlers who are first learning to splash around to pre-teens racing each other across the pool, water play can form a life-long love for outdoor recreation and activity.
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Jackie Merriam
Graphic Designer: Lauren Ellis Editor and Publisher: Jackie Merriam (269) 217-0977 - goodnews.jackie@gmail.com Like us on Facebook! This publication does not specifically endorse advertisers or their products or services. No part of this publication may be reprinted or otherwise reproduced without the written permission from the publisher.
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Home Decor
Melt Mom’s Heart with Heartwarming Gift Ideas
Instead of opting for the typical flowers, card or chocolates, consider a thoughtful gift for making Mom’s home more beautiful this spring. A thoughtful gift that is sentimental and stylish will surely make her smile. Homemade gifts are always something to cherish, but often they are gifts only a mother could love. Take it up a notch with these helpful ideas that will not only melt her heart, but actually add beauty to her home.
Captured Moments
Thumbing through hundreds of photos on our phones or posting on social media seem to be the common ways of reflecting on precious moments in our lives, but there is something special about having a tangible photograph hanging on a wall or framed on a nightstand. It isn’t fleeting like the rest of our digital lives. Consider having a canvas made or a series of canvases made of special moments that your mom would appreciate. If you are creating a series, consider having them all printed in black and white to create a cohesive artful look. If you prefer color prints, consider making the series cohesive by purchasing multiples of the same frame with large
white matting to create a stylish and balanced backdrop for your images.
Succulents
Instead of flowers that are beautiful, but fleeting, consider a potted plant. Succulents are all the rage now and make a great option, no green thumb required. Since succulents are generally found in arid climates, they don’t require a ton of watering and are pretty low maintenance. They have sculptural appeal, come in a variety of styles, shapes and textures and can be potted in equally beautiful containers. Every time mom passes by or cares for her plant, she will think of you and it will add a ton of beauty to her home.
Artful Expression
Okay so you aren’t the next Van Gogh, but that doesn’t mean your work isn’t noteworthy, especially to your mom. One secret to making your amateur artwork look less amateur is e through presentation. Almost anything can look good if matted and framed. Consider using
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an oversized matt to give a lot of white space around your artwork paired with a clean modern frame or a traditional frame based on your mothers interior decor. Pull out your crayons, colored pencils and paintbrushes and let the ideas flow. Your mom will surely love and appreciate the thought, time and care poured into every stroke, no matter what your age.
Objects of Affection
If the idea of creating art is just not for you, consider matting and framing a sentimental artifact from a special moment or event you shared together. For example a pair of ticket stubs from a concert you attended together or a newspaper clipping from a special day in history like her birthday or yours. A trinket or two that you picked up on travels together. Sentimental or not, many of us hold on to little things that remind us of events from our past, which often get placed in a dark dusty drawer only to be discovered on the rarest of
occasions. This is an opportunity to give one of those treasured objects new life and to serve the memory it was intended. It will show her how special that time was to you and will continue to serve as a reminder. Lastly, having something professionally made such as a pillow, apron or even a table runner is also a special way to celebrate mom and help beautify her home. Plus, we can make them sentimental too. We have created new pillows and aprons incorporating new fabrics along with the fabric from something sentimental, such as a favorite shirt or a baby blanket. We call them memory pillows. We pride ourselves in creating effortless and stylish pieces that aren’t gimmicky, but are extremely personal. They are thoughtfully crafted to work seamlessly into the decor of your home. No one would know they were memory pillows except for you and your mom. Wishing all of the moms out there, both human and fur baby a blessed and happy Mother’s Day! Julie Hite-Neilitz of HITE HOUSE Home Furnishings www.hite-house.com 6360 Stadium Drive
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May 2017
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3 simple ways to spring clean for your pet
We all love our pets, but throughout the year they can build up quite a mess throughout the house! We know you are busy with your life and don’t always have time to clean up after your furry friend, but what better time to clean than spring? So, here are three simple ways to spring clean for your furry companion. 1. Bedding: Your pet’s bedding builds up lots of dust, dirt, and
grime over time. According to the American Cleaning Institute, cat bedding should be cleaned once a week. Remove the cover and run it through the washing machine and dryer according to care instructions. Make sure to wash in cold water, use a mild laundry detergent (without dyes or fragrance) and add a cup of baking soda to help neutralize odor. Using at least one petsafe dryer sheet will reduce static
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electricity and remove even more hair. Also, if bedding appears dirty no matter how much you clean it, it may be time to get a new bed for your furry friend. 2. Toys: Much like bedding, your dog’s toys need to be washed regularly as well. Soft toys can be put in the washing machine; ideally in a garment bag. Make sure to line dry them or put them in the dryer inside a pillowcase so they don’t get destroyed. Hard toys should be hand- washed in the sink, preferably with a 50/50 solution of water and white vinegar. However, an easy alternative is to put your hound’s toys in the dishwasher. While cleaning toys, it’s also a good time to organize them into keep, donate, or toss piles to further declutter and pass some of your companion’s lessloved toys to other pets to enjoy. 3. Grooming: During the winter your pet’s hair may grow out
to accommodate the cold weather. Spring is the perfect time to pamper your pup with a trip to the groomer! You can further keep up with your companion’s cleanliness by giving her frequent dry baths which, unlike over-bathing, won’t cause dry skin which can result in itching and flaking. First, brush her out to loosen dead hair, dirt, and debris. Continue by wiping her down with a towel spritzed with a 50/50 mixture of apple cider vinegar and water. Rubbing baking soda on your pet afterwards will neutralize the smell of the vinegar. Let it sit for a couple minutes and then brush it off. Follow up by applying lavender oil between your dog’s shoulder blades, which will not only keep her smelling clean but also soothe her central nervous system and keep fleas and ticks at bay. These are some simple ways to spring into the new season with your furry friend! March 2017 KAR newsletter Reprinted with permission from Kalamazoo Animal Rescue Anna Kushner
Reprinted with permission from the Kalamazoo Animal Rescue Newsletter, September 2011.
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May 2017
GOOD NEWS
Vintage beachwear at its best!
Men had it made in the 1800’s 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 beachwear are all the rage. 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 onepiece suit covering the torso, arms and thighs while still revealing the shapes underneath, and it was a hit. By the 1930’s the necklines plunged, 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
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remain in style by today’s standards. Another very popular brand of that time was Jantzen, of Oregon. Each brand offered a full range of colors, styles and decorative options. During this time, Coco Chanel made suntans fashionable and so the twopiece suit was also introduced. This evolved into what is now known as the bikini shortly after WWII. 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 waist and constructed bust lines in swimwear, adorned with bracelets, earrings, hats, scarves and high heels. Vogue magazine stated that swimwear had become more of “a state of dress, not undress” by the mid 1950’s. By the 1960’s the swimsuit shrank in all directions, such as the monokini, a topless one-piece suit, and 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. Another popular beach trend
took place in the 1920’s and is coming back as high fashion today. The ‘beach pajamas’ were 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. Whatever you decide to wear to the beach or pool, enjoy and don’t be afraid to look to the past and try something new! Vintage love to you all. Jayne Gulliver Owner of J-Bird Vintage, 511 W. Vine, Kalamazoo
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garden inspirations The Wentzel family invites your family to visit and experience the beautiful colors of spring! •Specialty Combination Baskets •Proven Winners •Wave Petunias •Large Geranium Planters •Annuals •Vegetables
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Want to live independently in your own home, but not feel alone and out of touch? Sign up for personal emergency monitoring services. Bronson at Home partners with LifeCare Ambulance to offer an in-home system that signals for help with the touch of a button. That way, if you have an emergency, you can feel safer knowing that somebody is there to help you 24/7. Learn more about personal emergency monitoring at bronsonathome.com or call (269) 245-3706.
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May 2017
GOOD NEWS
The top books published this month that librarians across the country love Anything Is Possible: A Novel by Elizabeth Strout
Miss You: A Novel by Kate Eberlen
“Strout does not disappoint with her newest work. Her brilliant collection takes up where her novel, My Name is Lucy Barton, leaves off. The chapters read like short stories with Lucy Barton as the thread that runs between them. The characters populate Amgash, Illinois and their stories are woven together carefully and wonderfully. No one captures the inner workings of small town characters better than Strout. Written to be read and enjoyed many times, I highly recommend for readers of fine literary fiction.”
“Tess and Gus meet at when they are both eighteen and on holiday in Italy. Their meeting is one of those instant connections, but they go in different directions. Tess returns home, expecting to go to university, but instead her mother dies leaving her to care for her much younger sister. Gus goes to medical school and must deal with the death of his brother. Tess and Gus’ lives momentarily intersect at various points over the years. I enjoyed both of their stories and the anticipation of hoping they would meet again and make a final connection.”
Mary Vernau, Tyler Public Library, Tyler, TX
Mary Bennett, Carmel Clay Public Library, Carmel, IN
The Stars Are Fire: A Novel
The Shadow Land: A Novel
“Grace, a young woman with two small children, lives by the coast in Maine in 1947. Her marriage isn’t very happy, but she’s dutiful and devoted to her children. After escaping a devastating fire that wiped out her town and nearby forests, Grace has to become braver, stronger, and more resourceful than she’s ever had to be before. She manages it, and it’s lovely to watch happen, until something unexpected makes her life contract once more. This was deeply engaging and opened a real window on what it would have been like to be a woman in a small town in the 1940s.”
“Twentysomething Alexandra heads to Bulgaria to teach English and attempt to escape the pain of losing a family member. She ends up searching for a family when she realizes she accidentally kept one of their bags after helping them on her first day in the country. With the help of Bobby, a Bulgarian taxi driver, and many other entrancing characters, the search takes her all over Bulgaria and even back in time as she learns more about the family she is trying to find. Beautifully written and completely enthralling.”
Diana Armstrong Multomah County Library, Portland, OR
Caitlin Loving, Bedford Public Library, Bedford, NH
by Anita Shreve
by Elizabeth Kostova
For book recommendations from your Kalamazoo Public Library Staff go to www.kpl.gov/blog/
www.stulberg.org 269.343.2776
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May 2017
GOOD NEWS
In Search of our Super-Powers A Mother and Daughter Adventure Series
Jego God takes everyone he loves through a desert. It is his cure for our wandering hearts.” --Native American Proverb Jane: Dean and I are driving to Twenty-nine Palms, California on highway 10, a two lane road through the desert. Ahead of us, a billowing gray-white cloud seems to be growing out of the landscape and is looming closer. Mountains are behind us, on the right and the left, but this cloud may be covering even more peaks. The wind has been blowing hard for two days, with gusts up to 50 mph, and the weather forecasters are warning of a “haboob,” the middle-eastern term for a dust
storm. The Pima Indians call this phenomena “jego,” and it looks like we are about to meet jego face to face. Dean says, “Hang on—this is going to be a big blow.” The car sways, scratchy sand hits the windshield, and the visibility fades to fifteen yards. It’s like a snowstorm on dry roads. The sun becomes a 10-Watt bulb and the air takes on a yellowish tinge. I am all concentration and wonder, grateful I gave the steering wheel to Dean ten miles back because my pinky fingers had gone numb from gripping too hard. The proverb about the desert being a “cure for our wandering hearts” is now crystal clear to me. I am thinking of nothing except the vast power surrounding my tiny little self. This is the meaning of the word “awe.” Ellen: My text box starts to ping as picture after picture of billowing dust storm and increasingly dramatic driving conditions are relayed from my mother’s phone to my sister’s and to mine. It all looks very Mad Max: apocalyptic and ripe for a searing guitar riff. When I lived in coastal Japan, on a yearly basis, the winds would FOR YOUTH DEVELOPMENT® FOR HEALTHY LIVING FOR SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY
CELEBRATING ALL MOMS
Moms of all ages are invited to Try the Y for FREE! Because moms are always doing for others, we’re offering free day passes so moms can take care of themselves. We’re inviting all moms to Try the Y for free during Mother’s Day weekend (Friday, Saturday and Sunday.) Join on any of these days, and we’ll waive the joiner fee. For over 150 years, the YMCA of Greater Kalamazoo has provided support and services to our local area to build healthy body, mind and spirit. We’re not just a gym. We’re a community center built up through a membership that lifts our neighbors and each other.
The Y. For All. For a better you. For a better us. Maple Branch 1001 W. Maple Str. Kalamazoo MI 49008 269-345-9622
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Portage Branch 2900 W. Centre Str. Portage MI 49024 269-324-9622
change, blowing across the Asian continent toward us and bring layers upon layers of fine, eye-irritating silt picked up over the Gobi desert. It coated everything: cars, laundry, and--heaven forbid I left a window open. The locals devoted a part of the daily weather forecast to it. I, on the other hand, could never quite prepare myself: mighty clouds of transported desert falling from the sky? How is this a thing?? It is easy for Michiganders to forget how mystifying our own weather appears to outsiders. Casein point: early in April, several of my coworkers from both in
and outside the U.S. convened in Michigan for a meeting. We weathered Michiganders (pun intended) took it in stride as the 60 degree temps of the morning took a dive and resulted in two inches of snow by late afternoon. Many of us had worn snow boots that morning, but our poor out-of-town visitors were left to struggle to their Ubers and freeze their feet. “Incredible.” I heard one mutter. “No one is going to believe me.” They should take pictures for their group text next time. Jane & Ellen Knuth
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May 2017
GOOD NEWS
women’s education coalition grants Deadline for Applications for grants from the Women’s Education Coalition (WEC) Fund at Kalamazoo Community Foundation are due May 15.
WEC supports underemployed or unemployed women in need of education to become financially self-sufficient. Grants, typically ranging from $500 to $2,000, are based on need and are renewable.
Grants can be used for certificate and professional development programs as well as for undergraduate or graduate degrees. Eligible women include those with signifi-
cant breaks in their pursuit of a part or full-time certificate or degree program who live in Kalamazoo, Allegan, Barry, Calhoun, St. Joseph and Van Buren counties. Priority is given to underemployed working mothers and those enrolling or enrolled in not-for-profit educational institutions. WEC was established as a cooperative venture by Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, YWCA of Kalamazoo and the former Kalamazoo Network. According to Nancy Timmons, scholarship manager at the Community Foundation, “WEC Fund strives to change our communities through education, one family at a time. Data continues to show that when we help educate women, we contribute to the success of families.”
Former grant recipients have shared: “My sole purpose for enrolling in college this late in life was so I could get the proper education and accreditations I needed so I could go out and help others like myself, the ‘forgotten ones’.” “Thank you SO much! Never have I known a group of people so determined to make sure a person like myself makes it to her dreams. Please know that your blessings and support are sincerely appreciated.” “You may not know how much your support means to me as I pursue my educational goals. Not only does the money help me tremendously, but also I am extremely proud to be a chosen recipient of the WEC grant. Thank you very much.” “I wish I could put into words how much this (Women’s Education Coalition Grant) means to me. I hope to return this blessing by helping others. It feels really good to have a community that is
willing to provide support for me to achieve my goals and dreams.” “Without the Women’s Education Coalition and the Kalamazoo Community Foundation I could never have reached graduation. Thank you from the bottom of my heart!” Information in English and Spanish is available online at www. kalfound.org/WEC; however, those without computer access may call the Community Foundation at 269-381-4416 to request an application in the mail or to arrange a visit to the Community Foundation to fill out the application. Since 1995, WEC has granted over $1 million to more than 250 non-traditional students. Kalamazoo Community Foundation, established in 1925, has the mission to make life better for all through leadership and stewardship of resources that last forever, with the vision of a community where every person can reach full potential. Learn more at www.kalfound.org.
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May 2017
11
GOOD NEWS
stulberg competition provides inspiration for a children’s book
The Stulberg International String Competition held in Kalamazoo is the inspiration for a new Children’s Book titled, The Dance of the Violin. The Story focuses on a seminal childhood moment of internationally acclaimed, Grammy Award Winning Violinist Joshua Bell. The book focuses on what can happen if given a second chance. As a young student of the violin, Joshua Bell learns about an international competition to be held in Kalamazoo, Michigan. He chooses a piece of music that his teacher suggests may be too difficult, but Joshua is determined: it’s a piece of music he loves. At the 1980 competition, Joshua experiences the usual jitters. Once his name is called, he strides to the stage and begins to play, but almost immediately, he makes a mistake. As he is about to walk off the stage, he asks the judges if he could try again. They agree, and this time the playing is impeccable.
Children will readily empathize with Joshua’s misstep, but they will also learn the value of being given a second chance.
Kalamazoo and the Stulberg Competition are mentioned prominently in the story.
The book is based on Bell’s experience as a twelve year old at the Stulberg International String Competition. Bell placed third, which is a remarkable achievement for someone so young playing Edouard
Lalo’s Symphonic Espagnole. The following year he returned and won the competition. Written by Kathy Stinson, author of over 25 books for young people, including another book, The Man with the Violin, also featuring Joshua Bell. She lives near Guelph, Ontario. The book was Illustrated by Dušan Petričić, an editorial cartoonist and award-winning il-
lustrator of several children’s books, including The Man with violin. He lives in Zemun, Serbia. Like everyone else, Joshua Bell still makes mistakes onstage sometimes. And when he does, he remembers that day when focusing on his love of music, rather than trying so hard to play perfectly, helped him play his very best. Joshua Bell is now a grown man and one of the finest classical violinists in the world. You can learn more about his musical career at Joshuabell. com. The Dance of the Violin is for ages 5-8. Published by Annick Press, March 14th 2017, 32 pages, Hardcover $18.95/US. The book can be purchased at the Bookbug, located at 3019 Oakland Dr. in Kalamazoo, bookbugkalamazoo.com, (269) 385-2847. If you would like to attend the 42nd annual Stulberg International String Competition on May 13th at the WMU Dalton Center Recital Hall, here is the event schedule: • 9am-4pm - Semifinal Performances (on the half-hour). Free and open to the public. • 7:30pm, Finals Concert. Tickets $20/adults and $5/students. Stullberg.org, (269) 343-2776
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May 2017
PEACE PIZZAZZ
GOOD NEWS
Hosts 9th Annual Children’s Peace Festival
saturday may 20th, noon-4pm parade @ 3:30pm Bronson park, kalamazoo - Free admission
K-5 students celebrate their art, music, verbal/written, dance, and other expressions of positive behavior learned through peace education
with Peace Pizzazz, at the 9th Annual Children’s Peace Festival. The festival is the culmination of the past year’s work.
THE QUALITY YOU DESIRE
THE PEOPLE YOU TRUST Austen, Jorden and Branden DeHaan with their father, DRS founder, Robert DeHaan
Peace Pizzazz is a peace education program that works with Kalamazoo area children using
the Golden Rule (Treat others as you would like to be treated) as the model for creating peace in their lives - teaching conflict resolution through literacy and the arts. Lowey Dickason envisioned peace Pizzazz in 2008, as a way of enhancing awareness of a growing movement to establish a U.S. Department of Peace, through the writings and art of children. It soon developed into a peace education program, cultivating a culture of peace locally, including a K-5 children’s festival. They assist youth leaders by providing books and curriculum to bring peace to children. They
suggest resources and encourage discussion on peace-related topics of inclusion and other nonviolent, constructive attitudes towards self and others. The peace program can be adapted to fit any youth group involved with any activity. Positive behaviors can be taught in participating schools, faith groups, after-school programs, and in homes. Peace Pizzazz has recently acquired their 501(c)(3) non-profit status and is funded through grants and private donations. If you are a youth leader, please consider becoming part of Peace Pizzazz movement and spread the message of peace to children. For more information visit their Website at http://peacepizzazz. org, or follow them on Facebook at facebook.com/Peace Pizzazz. Feel free to contact Jim Pero, President at (734) 341-9537, jim4peace@ gmail.com.
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May 2017
GOOD NEWS
parenting when an experience outlasts a toy
Recently, I overheard a family discussing their upcoming vacation. They were planning their trip to upper Michigan, where they would go, where they would sleep, interesting things they would see. The children were all school-aged and the parents were sharing pictures, choices, and creating anticipation. And the children were encouraged to share in the financial planning as well – ways in which the whole family could save or create extra money to put into the vacation fund. I began to recollect fondly a vacation I shared with my family to the U.P. at about that same age and I was once again transported to that happy time. Have you ever thought, as parents, “When are there enough toys?” or “Good heavens, look at all these toys and my kids are complaining they are bored!” So many households have an overabundance of stuffed animals, Legos, craft kits,
small toys, large toys, electronic games and consoles – so many that if they gave away half of them no one would notice! One researcher stated that a high percentage of the toys parents give their children are either ignored or tossed aside in favor of the box they came in. Instead, when parents
invest time and finances on giving their children an experience of a vacation away it lasts in their memories – good or bad – for a lifetime.
Many times, when parents plan a vacation for their children, it revolves around a theme park (like Disney World) or someplace the parent would find stimulating (like the Grand Canyon). I have no judgment about vacationing at Disney World and every child should have the world’s wonders on their
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bucket list. What I am suggesting is all vacations do not have to be that extravagant or stimulating. Consider just time away from the stresses of daily life – no screens, cell phones, email, or immediate time demands for parents – and time to focus on each other, to fill each other’s (positive emotional) bucket, and build lasting, fun memories. Even the mistakes can be the stuff of family lore and rehashing. Consider creating that vacation fund, a visible container that every member of the family can contribute to, by foregoing the next toys or treats, and putting the money toward memories. Here are a few things to consider in the process: • Culture is boring for kids unless it is interactive. That’s why there are children’s museums! Check out the Kalamazoo Valley Museum, the Indianapolis Children’s Museum, the City Museum in St. Louis, or the Curious Kids’ Museum in St.
Joseph, MI, a segue tour of Chicago architecture, or take in the symphony at the movies (www.Kalamazoosymphony.org.) If its exposure to art, architecture, or music that you want for your kids, make it fun. • Talk together about what would be interesting, exciting, or relaxing. Make every voice count. • Take mini vacations, long weekends, and staycations close to home with fun activities in town. • Be sure to do some research but do not over-plan! Leave time (lots of time) for silly play together. • Consider whether your plans are appropriate for your age of children. Paris in springtime may be magnificent, but your kindergartener may not appreciate it. Dr. Susan Carter is a child and family psychologist and Registered Play Therapist at Center for Change and Growth PLC in Kalamazoo.
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May 2017
GOOD NEWS
Hello Asparagus!
Recipes All I can say is, “Hello May!” because it brings awesome asparagus! Here are some awesome ways to indulge in this amazing vegetable – ENJOY! Food Stylist/Photographer: Laura Kurella
Incredible Asparagus Chicken 4 boneless skinless chicken breast halves 1/2 cup Chardonnay wine 1 teaspoon dried tarragon 1 (1 1/4 ounce) packet dry hollandaise sauce mix, prepared 16 fresh steamed asparagus spears In a glass casserole dish, place chicken breasts and cover with wine then sprinkle with tarragon and cover. Allow to marinate in the refrigerator for 2 hours. Preheat broiler or grill. Remove chicken from marinade, discarding marinade, and broil or
Amazing Asparagus Appetizers 8 ounces cream cheese, softened 8 strips bacon, cooked crisp 2 tablespoons fresh, chopped chives 16 slices of bread 16 asparagus spears, raw or lightly steamed 1/4 cup melted butter 3 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Spray a large cooking sheet with non-stick spray. In a food processor, combine cream cheese, bacon and chives and pulse just until well blended. With a rolling pin, flatten each slice of bread then remove crust. Spread 1 tablespoon of cheese mixture over
one side of each slice of bread then top with an asparagus spear. Roll up tightly, placing it seam side down if cutting in half for an appetizer. Roll up tightly on the diagonal if serving as a side. Place on a prepared cookie sheet and brush all sides with melted then sprinkle with Parmesan cheese. If serving as an appetizer, cut each one in half then fake for 10-12 minutes at 400 degrees. To bake whole, reduce oven to 375 degrees and bake for 12-16 minutes or until desired browning has occurred. Serve hot or cold. Approximate servings per recipe: 16 (whole). Calories: 170; Fat 10g; Sodium 319mg; Carbohydrates 13g; Fiber 1g; Sugar 1g; Protein 5g.
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How to Freeze Asparagus 1 pound asparagus 2 cups water 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt In a skillet combine water and salt then place over high heat. Meanwhile, snap tough ends off the asparagus, reserving them for pet treats or wild animals in your yard – they all love it! Once the water is boiling, plunge prepared asparagus into water. Wait for the water to come back to a boil then reduce heat to a simmer and set a timer for 1 minute. Meanwhile, fill a bowl with a tray of ice cubes and then run your tap to get the coldest water to add to the bowl.
Once timer sounds, scoop asparagus directly from hot pan and plunge into ice bath. Let asparagus rest in ice bath until completely cool. Drain on clean paper towels, remove as much surface water as you can, then place in freezer bags and freeze. If you are doing a large amount, scatter on a cookie sheet so they are not touching then freeze over night before placing in airtight freezer containers. NOTE: This method can be used with greater quantities. Simply adjust water and salt accordingly.
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grill for 25 minutes or until juices run clear. Meanwhile, steam asparagus to el dente and prepare hollandaise sauce according to package directions. Once chicken is cooked, arrange breasts on plates; sprinkle each breast with a 1/4 cup of cheddar cheese, then arrange 4 spears of asparagus across the top of breast and drizzle the sauce over each breast just before serving. Approximate servings per recipe: 4 Calories: 315; Fat 11g; Sodium 492mg; Carbohydrates 9g; Fiber 1g; Sugar 1g; P
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“My mission in life is not merely to survive, but to thrive; and to do so with some passion, some compassion, some humor, and some style.” -Maya Angelou
May 2017
health
It seems that our busy lives demand that we try doing two or three things at the same time to get the bottom of our “Do List”. We often find ourselves talking on the phone and paying attention to what’s on our screen at the same time. The most common multitask I see is people eating lunch. If they’re eating alone, they’re either reading or looking at their mobile device. The concept of multi-tasking is a valued skill in our culture; it’s associated with using time efficiently. It’s common to assume that our brain with billions of neurons, hundreds of thousands of circuits, combined with the complexity of our lives, has evolved to a state where we can process several pieces of information in parallel. After all, we can touch our ear, smell the coffee, taste the morsel in our mouth, and listen to music at the same time. So what’s the big deal! The deal is that, when it comes to making decisions, we can’t do them at the same time. Someone who is walking and chewing gum at the same time can say the she is multitasking, but there are no decisions being made while she is doing both things simultaneously Research has shown that there are certain limits to how well we can process different information simultaneously. The human brain can perform many operations in parallel, but there are bottlenecks in their processing. Certain brain utilities that are essential to performing many behaviors can perform only one task at a time. The problem with multi-tasking emerges directly from these bottlenecks. You may feel as if you are performing more than one task at a time, but research demonstrates that you are rapidly switching between two or more tasks to create the illusion of simultaneously perform two tasks at the same time. That switch takes time and requires a substantial amount of brain resources to accomplish. Perhaps the most common
15
GOOD NEWS
think you’re good at multi-tasking? think again
example of apparent multi-tasking concerns driving while using a cell phone. When it comes to processing sensory information and making decisions about it, the human brain is limited to one task at a time. No matter how expert you are at the other parts of performing a task, the decision aspect remains the single task bottleneck. When you are responding to someone on the other end of a phone, you are making a lot of decisions. Every time you are making one of those decisions you are not able to make visual-motor decisions about driving. Those decisions have to wait until the bottleneck is freed up.
We may be able to alternate between two or more decisionmaking tasks, but we are not doing them simultaneously. Alternating takes time and always introduces a little delay. At 60-70 miles per hour, a little delay can translate into a crash. What about conversations with other passengers in the car? It’s the same issue with cell phones. It’s the “decision” aspect of the task that causes the delay. If someone asks you a question while you’re driving, the time it takes to respond means that your attention is not on driving the car. Going back to eating and reading
at the same time, if you think about it, you’re really not paying attention to what is going in your mouth. You’re reading a page or a screen. This plays a big part in overeating. We are not aware of our feeling of satiation because we’re too distracted by the story. So next time, put the book down, eat mindfully, and then read. You’re appreciating the two tasks much more and won’t overeat in the process. Till next time, Ken Dettloff ACE Certified Personal Trainer.
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May 2017
Musicians’ helping one another is what Homegrown Kalamazoo is all about. This music performers workshop series is free and hosted by local musician, Kaitlin Rose, every Thursday at the Old Dog Tavern.
“Homegrown is a great place for local musicians to work on improving their stage presence, interacting with the audience and playing new songs that they’ve never performed before,” says Rose.
The workshop series is different from an open microphone format in that musicians prepare a 25-min-
ute set of music ahead of time to be performed in front of their peers and tavern patrons. It’s an opportunity for musicians to receive and give valuable feedback to help them and other musicians grow and improve as performers. The idea sparked from a conversation that Rose had with Old Dog Tavern co-owner, Amy Smith, who expressed a desire to have something more than their open microphone night for local musicians. She asked if Rose would be interested in putting some ideas together. Rose came up with the Homegrown format and hit the ground running beginning in September 2016. The monthly workshop series is structured as follows:
GOOD NEWS
Week 1 – is divided between a shortened workshop at the beginning and a spotlight artist, who performs a longer 45-minute set. 8-11pm. Weeks 2 & 4 – five or six musicians each week perform 25-minute sets from 8-11pm. They break in the middle and end of performances to workshop, critiquing the performances, providing feedback about the strengths and weaknesses of each artist. 8-11pm. Week 3 – Kaitlin Rose & Band, including: Jim Beebe (guitar), Greg Orr (base) and Ryan Demenick (percussion) perform with a new opening band (typically one or the workshop performers) from 9-11pm. Rose mentioned that Homegrown has given her a better pulse on the local music scene and has allowed her to be more involved in the music community. “The Old Dog Tavern is a great place to hold Homegrown, because the open bar/restaurant atmosphere offers sound challenges for performers that they’re likely to encounter at other venues. Homegrown is fortunate to have sound professional, Erik Sebastian every week. Eric makes everyone sound their best,” says Rose. Rose has a special connection to the Old Dog Tavern, because her first live performance was held there years ago when it was Kraftbrau. A bit of background on the host, Kaitlin Rose: She grew up in this area and is a soulful folk singer, songwrit-
er & guitarist. Rose shares her talents with the community at many local venues. In 2015 she released a CD titled “ The Other Side” with her band – copies are available on her website kaitlinrosemusic.com. She is currently working on a new solo, extended play recording. If you would like to enjoy some local music talent, stop into Old Dog Tavern and enjoy the talented Homegrown artists on the 1, 2 & 4th Thursday’s from 8-10pm, or see Kaitlin Rose & her band on the 3rd Thursday from 9-11pm. Music performers that would like more information about Homegrown, or to sign up to participate in the workshop series, visit their Facebook page: facebook.com/ HomegrownKalamazoo. Jackie Merriam
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May 2017
frost-free gardening
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Frost-Free Gardening If you’ve been tending to warmweather seedlings for the past few weeks, or if you’ve been eyeing them at your local greenhouse, you can officially get them in the ground this month! Typically by mid-May, Hardiness Zone 5, the zone Southwest Michigan is in, is safe from frost. By the end of May, Zone 5 is in the clear until October for frost. Before you plunk your plants in the dirt, there are a few things to make sure you have beforehand. If you’re putting out plants that will need support, it’s much easier to get the supports in place now rather than when they’re started to take over the space they inhabit. In my experience, traditional tomato cages work great for things like peppers and eggplant, while tomatoes can really use taller, stronger cages (5-6 feet) made of 4-inchsquare chicken wire or 2x4-inch welded wire fence. You can also create cages made of wood or sturdy sticks you find outdoors. I like to use untreated wooden pallets (that I find for free) to create trellises for larger vining plants like cucumbers, squash, and melons. Just be sure you help your plants utilize whatever cage or support you put around them as they grow. This is a good time of year to make use of free kitchen scraps to help feed your garden plants and veggies. Spent coffee grounds make a nutritious side dressing for greedy feeders like leafy greens, tomatoes,
GOOD NEWS corn and roses (and they deter slugs). Banana peels can be whirled through a food processor and added to the garden to provide additional potassium to plants (or let them compost for a few weeks before adding to the garden or making compost tea), and composted eggshells add calcium back to the soil, a nutrient all plants need for proper growth. If you’re a lover of flowers, there are varieties you can plant to add color to your beds and deter pets from your produce. Marigolds, alliums, nasturtiums, lavender, petunias and chrysanthemums provide a natural protection from a slew of garden pests. Research which fruits and vegetables make good companion plants for the previously mentioned flowers for an even bigger boost to your harvest. With Mother Nature’s help and a little luck, you’ll be enjoying a summer harvest in no time. Happy growing! Meg Gernaat is a Kalamazoo native growing what she can on her almost-acre of land. See what she’s up to at WestEHomestead.com.
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May 2017
GOOD NEWS
Environment
Climate change is real. It’s important to remember this fact, despite the discourse surrounding the topic. There is no “debate” among scientists about whether anthropogenic (human-caused) climate change is real or not. Scientists are simply finding more consequences related to climate change. Many scientific studies have been performed and peer-reviewed to establish the fact of climate change. The evidence of climate change is overwhelming.
To begin with, scientists have been able to gather data from glaciers to determine the climate of Earth thousands, millions, even billions of years ago. Water is constantly exchanging gases with the atmosphere, so when water freezes into glacial ice, the historic composition of the atmosphere is preserved. When scientists graphed the data, a regular cycle of temperature and carbon dioxide emerged, except for an anomaly since around the age
of the Industrial Revolution. Since this time period, a sharp increase in average global temperature and carbon dioxide levels has been observed. This, along with other lines of evidence, lead scientists to hypothesize that climate change is primarily driven by the anthropogenic release of greenhouse gases, especially carbon dioxide. Other observed consequences of climate change include increased ocean temperatures, increased ocean
acidity, increased sea-levels, shrinking ice sheets, glacial retreats, increased number of extreme weather and climate events, and decreased snow-cover. For more information on evidence for climate change, please visit: https://climate.nasa.gov/evidence/ Judy Smith Heidelberg University Student
celebrating 25 years On Saturday, May 13th, the National Association of Letter Carriers (NALC) will host the 25th annual ‘Stamp Out Hunger’ Food Drive. The largest one-day food drive in the nation, this event is made possible by the United Way of Battle Creek and Kalamazoo Region and local Letter Carrier Branch 246. Food donations benefit Kalamazoo Loaves & Fishes, the Salvation Army of Kalamazoo, the Portage Community Center, and Christian Neighbors. Over 40,000 people in Kalamazoo County face food insecurity on a daily basis, and over 10,000 of those individuals are children.
Food drives like this help fill the gap for so many whose budgets leave very little for food. This drive comes at a time of year when local food support agencies are preparing for their most in-demand season – when children lose access to school feeding programs due to summer break. To be a part of this national food drive, simply leave non-perishable, unopened food donations near your mailbox on the morning of Saturday, May 13th. Your mail carrier and other event volunteers will handle the rest. Food items that cannot be accepted include: unlabeled, opened, long-term expired or homemade items. Food items
that are most in need include: high protein soups and stews, peanut butter, low sugar canned fruit, low salt canned vegetables, and canned meat. For more information about this year’s NALC ‘Stamp Out Hunger’ Food Drive, please visit kzoolf.org or nalc. org. For other inquiries about the event, please contact Kalamazoo Loaves & Fishes at 269.488.2617.
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May 2017
19
GOOD NEWS
and still we rise
“And Still We Rise: Race, Culture and Visual Conversations” exhibit features exquisite textiles made by the Women of Color Quilters Network Curated by artist, historian, and national lecturer Dr. Carolyn L. Mazloomi, the exhibit And Still We Rise: Race, Culture and Visual Conversations features works of superb artistry that draw on the enduring American tradition of narrative storytelling through the textile art of quilting. The exhibition will be displayed at the Kalamazoo Valley Museum through June 4, 2017. The beautifully handcrafted quilts featured in this traveling exhibit were created by a group of international artists from the Women of Color Quilters Network. They narrate the history of the African
American experience, capturing the stories of freedom’s heroes, including Frederick Douglass, Mae Jemison, and the first African American President. Through the accessibility of their colors, patterns, and symbols, these quilts relate stories that enable conversations about sensitive topics from our history, furthering the conversation of racial reconciliation in America. As the founder of the 1,700-member nonprofit Women of Color Quilters Network, Mazloomi is in a unique position to bring together quilts from more than 50 contemporary artists that reflect on moments in history that have contributed to transformations of social justice in America and across the globe. “The exhibition gives voices to personal, authentic, and unique histories of African American men and women – from relating painful stories of enslaved ancestors to highlighting contemporary political leaders and drawing attention to social challenges our nation continues
to face today,” Mazloomi said. Comprising 67 unique story quilts, this is a one-of-a-kind exhibition that makes a spectacular collective visual impact and showcases the diversity, creativity, and power of a texture-rich, color-saturated folk art form. The quilts represent their artists’ mastery of a diverse range of fiber art techniques, among them free-motion quilting, embroidery, needlepoint, appliqué, fiber collage, fusing, and hand beading. Reflecting each artist’s unique story, training, and style, the materials incorporated into the textile narratives include cotton, batik, organdy, metal, newsprint, beads, found objects, photo transfers, buttons, shell, wood, and vintage fabrics. The works of And Still We Rise engage visitors to reflect on and respond to significant national events from the 17th century into the 21st century. The exhibition’s resonant theme is the triumph of the human spirit within African American culture. Story quilting is an art form that has derived in part from a long, rich history and goes beyond simple quilting patterns. This art form expands on traditional textile-arts techniques to record, in fabric, events of personal or historical
significance. Kalamazoo Valley Museum Director Bill McElhone said the Museum has hosted other quilt exhibits in the past, and they are always well received. He expects this exhibit to be popular for several reasons. “The And Still We Rise exhibit is an amazing collection of African American contemporary quilters and their amazing quilt designs that tell stories and inspire conversations,” said McElhone. “Museums are all about storytelling, and this exhibit does this effectively. History from written sources is important, but history from the observers and participants provides a much more personal perspective. Each quilt presents these deeply personal stories and reflections on the past, present, and future.” By exploring and unpacking events of four centuries through a female-dominated art medium, the quilts of this exhibition bear witness to and relate perspectives that written history has often neglected. Presented by the Women of Color Quilters Network in partnership with Cincinnati Museum Center and National Underground Railroad Freedom Center. Admission to the Museum is free.
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FREE may EVENTS Through May 14 Remembering Marvin Hamlisch: The People’s Composer: Photos Kalamazoo Valley Museum 373-7990 Through June 4 Exhibit: And Still We Rise: Race, Culture, and Visual Conversations Kalamazoo Valley Museum 373-7990 Monday, May 1 Book Group: The Girl Who Wrote in Silk by Kelli Estes Parchment Community Library 7pm, 343-7747 Tuesdays, May 2,9,16,23,30 Kalamazoo Farmers Market 1204 Bank St. 7am-2pm, 342-5686 Tuesday, May 2 Talk: 20th Century Korean Art Kalamazoo Institute of Arts Noon, 349-7775 Tuesdays, May 2,9,16,23,30 Open Mic Night Hosted by Steve Pesch & The DOC! Old Dog Tavern 8pm-midnight, 381-5677 Wednesdays, May 3,10,17,24,31 Cruise-Ins Gilmore Car Museum 5-8pm, 671-5089 Wednesdays, May 3,10,17,24,31 Live Music: Potter’s Lounge 5:30-8:30pm, pattiflemingmusic.com Wednesdays, May 3,10,17,24,31 Weekly Guided Meditation Unity of Kalamazoo 6-7:30pm, 385-2239 Wednesday, May 3 Music: Whisky Before Breakfast O’Duffy’s Pub 8-10pm, 344-5666 Wednesday, May 3 Talk: End-of-Life Care Comstock Township Library 1pm, 345-0136, Register ahead Thursdays, May 4,11,18,25 Kalamazoo Farmer’s Market 1204 Bank St. 7am-2pm Thursday, May 4 Meet the author/illustrator, Terri Libenson of “Invisible Emmie” Bookbug in Kalamazoo 4-5pm, 385-2847 Thursdays, May 4,11,18,25 Crafty Needles - Knitting Night Boatyard Brewing Co. 4-9pm, 226-0300 Thursdays, May 4,11,18,25 Singer/Songwriter Night Boatyard Brewing Co. Sign up at 6pm Performances 7-11pm 226-0300
Friday, May 5 Musical Experience: Off the Ledge Kalamazoo Valley Museum 6pm, 373-7990
Monday, May 8 Bach-Around-the-Block Organ Crawl First Congregational Church, Kal. 7pm, 337-7407
Fridays, May 5,12,19,26 Live Music: Potter’s Lounge 7:00-10:00pm, pattiflemingmusic.com
Tuesday, May 9 Video: 100 Years Show: Carmen Herrara Kalamazoo Institute of Arts Noon, 349-7775
Friday, May 5 Music: A.Mays & Blue Boatyard Brewing Co. 8-10:30pm, 226-0300 Friday, May 5 Late Night Food Truck Rally 201-299 Water St., Kalamazoo 9pm-11:45pm, 388-2830 Saturdays May 6,13,20,27 Kalamazoo Farmers’ Market 1204 Bank St. 7am-2pm, 337-8899 Sat., May 6 & Sun., May 7 Spring Into Wings Art & Craft Show Wings Event Center Sat. 9-4, Sun. 10-4, 349-1185 Saturdays, May 6,13,20,27 Parchment Market Live Music, Vendors & Artists Bookends in Parchment 9am-3pm, 998-0988
Tuesday, May 9 Bach & Jammies Family Event Kalamazoo Public Library – Oshtemo 6:30pm, 337-7407 Wednesday, May10 Phone, Mail & email Scams Comstock Township Library 3pm, 345-0136, pre-register Wednesday, May 10 Music: Carrie McFerrin O’Duffy’s Pub 8-10pm, 344-5666 Thurs.5/11 – Sat. 5/13 Scholastic Book Warehouse Sale Kalamazoo County Expo Center Thurs.11-7, Fri.9-7, Sat. 9-3 Thursday, May 11 Bach’s Lunch Recital @ K-College Light Fine Arts Center/Recital Hall Noon, 337-7407
Sunday, May 14 Music: Megan Dooley Parchment Community Library 2pm, 343-7747 Tuesday, May 16 Talk: West MI Area Show Artists Kalamazoo Institute of Arts Noon, 349-7775 Wednesday, May 17 Book Discussion: “Hold Still” Kalamazoo Institute of Arts 2pm, 349-7775 Wednesday, May 17 Introduction to Calligraphy Comstock Township Library 5:30pm, 345-0136, pre-register Wednesday, May 17 Music: Out of Favor Boys O’Duffy’s Pub 8-10pm, 344-5666 Thursday, May 18 Income for Life Presentation By Zack Alkhamis @ Bravo Restaurant 6pm, 978-0238, Pre-registration req’d Fri., & Sat., May 19-20 Portage Garden Club Plant Sale 6851 Hickory Pt. Dr., East, Portage Fri., 7-3, Sat. 8-Noon, 492-2856
Saturdays, May 6,13,20,27 Music: BenJammin’ and Analisa Educational entertainers & Kids breakfast Old Dog Tavern 10 – 11am, 381-5677
Thursday, May 11 National Children’s Mental Health Awareness Day Carnival Kalamazoo County Expo Center 4-7pm, 553-7122
Saturday, May 6 First Saturday – Central Branch Stories, activities, guests & prizes Kalamazoo Public Library 2-3:30pm, 342-9837
Thursday, May 11 Music: Megan Dooley O’Duffy’s Pub 8-10pm, 344-5666
Saturday, May 20 Comm. Yard Sale & Ice Cream Social Comstock Township Library Sale 9-1, Ice Cream 10-3
Friday, May 12 Music: The Hired Hands Old Dog Tavern 6-9pm, 381-5677
Saturday May 20 Children’s Peace Festival Bronson Park, dwtn. Kalamazoo Noon-4pm, 2pm parade
Fri. May 12 & Sat. May 13 Plant Sale sponsored by Master Gardeners Kalamazoo County Building 3299 Gull Rd., 9am-6pm
Sunday, May 21 Talk: Dr. Carolyn Mazloomi, founder of Women of Color Quilters Network Kalamazoo Valley Museum 1:30pm, 373-7990
Fri., May 12 & Sat., May 13 Schoolcraft Village Wide Garage Sales Pick up map at the village office 9am-4pm, 679-4304
Sunday, May 21 Westminster Art Festival Closing Concert featuring: Blarney Castle 4pm, 344-3966
Friday, May 12 Bach Festival Vocal Masterclasses Light Fine Arts Center/Recital Hall @ Kalamazoo College, 10:30am & 2pm
Tuesday, May 23 Talk: America’s Favorite Painting Kalamazoo Institute of Arts Noon, 349-7775
Friday, May 12 Westminster Art Festival Visual Art Awards Presentation 6pm, 344-3966
Wednesday, May 24 Music: Joe Wang and The Test Pilots O’Duffy’s Pub 8-10pm, 344-5666
Friday, May 12 Teen Night Kalamazoo Institute of Art Galleries, make art, pizza & pop 6-8pm, 349-7775
Thursday, May 25 Michigan Rediscovered: A Dozen Destinations You May Have Missed Richland Community Library 7pm, 629-9085
Friday, May 12 Jewelry Demonstration: Cabochon Kalamazoo Institute of Arts 6:30-8:30pm, 349-7775 (pre-register)
Friday, May 26 Music: The Dow Family Band Boatyard Brewing Co. 6:30 – 9:30pm, 226-0300
Saturday, May 13 Stulberg International String semifinal performances WMU Dalton Center Recital Hall 9am-4pm (on the ½ hr.)
Sunday, May 28 Outdoor Concert: Helmsmen Klines Resort W. of Vicksburg Bring lawn chairs & finger foods 6:30pm, 649-3414
Saturday, May 13 Art Detectives (Read, Look & Make) For Children 4-8, w/adult Kalamazoo Institute of arts 11am-12:30pm, 349-7775
Monday, May 29 through Sept. 2 Exhibit: Binding Wounds Kalamazoo Valley Museum 373-7990
Saturdays, May 6,13, 20,27 Music: Duffield Caron Project Old Dog Tavern 5-7pm, 381-5677 Saturday, May 6 Music: Jeff Willson Boatyard Brewing Co. 7-10pm, 226-0300 Saturdays, May 6,13,20, 27 Live Music: Potter’s Lounge 7:00-10:00pm, pattiflemingmusic.com Sundays, May 7,14,21,28 Portage Farmers Market Portage Senior Center 10am – 2pm, 337-8899 Sun., May 7 & Mon., May 8 Huge Rummage Sale Congregation of Moses, Kalamazoo 10am-2pm, 342-5463 Sundays, May 7,14,21,28 Jazz Brunch Old Dog Tavern 10am-Noon, 381-5677 Sunday, May 7 Honor Your Elders: Share a memory Parchment Community Library 2pm, 343-7747
Thursday, May 4 Music: Tom Duffield O’Duffy’s Pub 8-10pm, 344-5666
Sunday, May 7 Concert: Kalamazoo Comm. Chorale First United Methodist Church, Kal. 4pm, 615-0167
Friday, May 5 Art Hop Downtown Kalamazoo & In the Vine Neighborhood 5-8pm, 342-5059
Sundays, May 7,14,21,28 Bell’s Eccentric Café Sunday Team Trivia Doors open at 5pm Trivia 6-8pm, 382-2332
Fri., May 5 & Sat., May 6 Art Sale at the Ladies’Library in Kalamazoo Fri., 5-8, Sat. 10-4, 344-3710
Sundays, May 7,14,21,28 Professional Blues Jam Old Dog Tavern 6-9pm, 381-5677
Friday, May 5 Borgess Kids Fun Run Borgess Health & Fitness Center 6pm,Pre-register: borgessrun.com
Monday, May 8 Bach & Jammies Family Event Kalamazoo Public Library-Central 6:30pm, 337-7407
Saturday, May 13 All Ears Theatre: Man Size in Marble First Baptist Church, Kalamazoo 6-7pm, 342-5059
Friday, May 19 Music: Steve Pesch Boatyard Brewing Co. 7-10pm, 226-0300
Tuesday, May 30 Video: Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec Kalamazoo Institute of Arts Noon, 349-7775