Women's Lifestyle Magazine, December 2018, Unwrap the Joy by womenslifestylegr

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Grand Rapids|Holland|Grand Haven

DEC

Joy

U N W R A P THE

Uptown Holiday Shop Hop Recipes • Decor • Gift Guide The Women Transforming Heartside

The Museum Store

Clockwise: GoCar – Kid O (other colors available) Fine Tip Markers – Sargent Art (In a carry pack of 30 or 50) Oogi Pilla – Kid O (other styles available) Tobbles – Fat Brain Toy Co. (for ages 12+ months)

Grand Rapids Art Museum | 101 Monroe Center | Grand Rapids, MI 49503 | 616.831.2920

Colorful Gifts for the Budding Artist

45 Years of InspIred desIgn

2018

Featuring Regional Artisans: Rita Shields Bonnie Blandford Lynn Tan Fred Bivins Motawi Sumiko Takada Paola Gracida Eric Heerspink Mary Ippel Lestra Hazel Meg Tang Robyn Kane Nicole MacPherson Chris Triola Emilie Eklund Degree Glass Sheila Grant Liz DeVree Elyse Welcher Julie Sanford Megan Williams Rosemary Hayes Peggy Orosz-Boslar Ralph Lindholm and more!

MODERN HOLIDAYS Artisan Market

November 9, 2018 - January 6, 2019

4181 - 28th Street SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49512 616-940-9911 www.DesignQuest.biz

Rita Shields Bonnie Blandford Lynn Tan Fred Bivins Motawi Sumiko Takada Paola Gracida Eric Heerspink Mary Ippel Lestra Hazel Meg Tang Robyn Kane Nicole MacPherson Chris Triola Emilie Eklund Degree Glass Sheila Grant Liz DeVree Elyse Welcher Julie Sanford Megan Williams Rosemary Hayes Peggy Orosz-Boslar Ralph Lindholm and more!

2018

Featuring Regional Artisans:

MODERN HOLIDAYS Artisan Market

November 9, 2018 - January 6, 2019

This child in foster care has a chance.

Letter from the Editor In West Michigan, we are fortunate to experience the full scope of each season, winter being perhaps the fullest, and one that elicits the most impassioned reception. To me, winter is a yearly reminder to find the joy in all things; with subzero temperatures and frozen windshields comes the undeniably striking beauty of the world coated in freshly fallen snow, the laughter of children sledding, the soul-refreshing respite of the cozy indoors, and, of course, the holidays.

It’s You.

In this edition, we introduce you to Mary Martinez, owner-operator of Tamales Mary, who shares how this traditional Mexican dish has become a staple of holiday celebrations (page 10).

She needs you to be her voice, her advocate. The person who asks her what she wants and how she’s doing. The person who really listens to her answers. If you can find 10 hours a month to volunteer, call us. Because there’s a child in Kent County who needs you to be their CASA, Court Appointed Special Advocate. Learn more at www.CASAKentCo.org or 616.632.5311.

Christmas Cheer

forSomeone Dear

Uptown Grand Rapids once again invites us to revel in the essence of our community with Holiday Shop Hop. The one-night shopping event spans four thriving business districts in the Uptown area and evokes the spirit of holidays gone by with local shops and restaurants collaborating for a truly charming and unforgettable holiday shopping experience (page 50). Find the perfect gift for your furry friend (page 54); get a rundown on the latest holiday party fashion staples (page 38); and mark your calendar for the GROW Sparkle event, where local entrepreneurs sell their wares while shoppers enjoy a delicious dinner and bid on outstanding auction items in the beautiful setting of Cascade Hills Country Club (page 52). Additionally, we bring you the stories of women in our community who give of themselves all year round. In “Where Their Hearts Reside,” we introduce you to ten local women who are working in the Heartside neighborhood to improve the quality of life for all of its stakeholders while transforming perceptions of our city’s most vulnerable populations (page 14). Shandra Steininger and Kai Giles of HQ Runaway & Homeless Youth Drop-In Center share their personal reflections on how practicing gratitude maximizes our capacity to give (page 55). Happy holidays and happy reading!

EasternFloral -Elyse Wild, Editor

Some of the best things in life are free - including Women’s LifeStyle Magazine! Thank you to our community advertising partners for making it possible.

Grand Rapids • Grand Haven • Holland 616.949.2200 • www.easternfloral.com 4

Women’s LifeStyle is a dynamic multi-media platform designed to make beneficial connections in our community. The positive, upbeat, award winning and popular locally owned publication is supported by a dynamic mobile friendly online presence and an interactive website (including an events calendar, embedded video), as well as friendly, helpful and consistent social media interaction with the community. With 490+ distribution locations, Women’s LifeStyle is favored by an active, engaged and progressive audience. You are now looking at the 249th edition. All content ©Women’s LifeStyle, Inc. 2018.

Women’s LifeStyle Magazine • December 2018

December 2018

The People Who Make It Happen

Edition #249

Publisher Victoria Upton Associate Publisher Two Eagles Marcus tem@womenslifestyle.com Editor Elyse Wild elyse@womenslifestyle.com Content Producer Sarah Anderson Production Designer Larissa Espinosa Editorial Intern Megan Jezak Contributing Writers Beth McEwen Danea Mather Elisa Spyker Elyse Wild Kelsey McCracken Kayla Sosa Megan Jezak Peaches McCahill Samantha Suarez Sarah Anderson Shannon Cohen Photography August Nyson Elyse Wild Two Eagles Marcus

LIFE 10 Ways to Unwrap the Joy in December............................... 6 Where Their Hearts Reside: The Women Who are Transforming the Heartside Neighborhood........................... 14 We’re Out There........................................................................ 44 STYLE & BEAUTY Gift Guide................................................................... 12,22,30,32 Refresh Your Holiday Décor..................................................... 34 The Party Dress: A Tour Through the Ages.............................. 36 Fashion: The Holiday Edition.................................................... 38 FOOD Tamales Mary............................................................................ 10 Wonderful Winter Cocktails..................................................... 18

Moonlit Morning............................................................................ 18

The Merchant................................................................................ 18

Your Favorite Holiday Recipes — with a Healthy Twist......... 24

Cranberry Thyme Sorbet............................................................. 24

Green Bean Casserole................................................................. 26

Cheesy Scalloped Rutabaga..................................................... 26

Three Cheese White Chicken Lasagna..................................... 28

LEARN & DO Voluntary RE:Action.................................................................... 8 Her Legacy: Grace Ames Van Hoesen.................................. 20 Reader’s Lounge....................................................................... 40

Advertising Sales Susie Gordon / Sales Manager susie@womenslifestyle.com Sarah Anderson sarah@womenslifetyle.com Eve Shetterly eve@womenslifestyle.com

December Events..................................................................... 46

CALL US: (616) 458-2121

Hoooowl-iday Gift Guide......................................................... 54

EMAIL US: info@womenslifestyle.com SEND MAIL: 3500 3 Mile Rd NW, Ste A Grand Rapids, MI 49534

Nineteenth Annual Helen Devos Children’s Hospital Radiothon.................................................................................. 45 Uptown Holiday Shop Hop...................................................... 50 GROW Sparkle Celebration..................................................... 52 Children’s Social Justice Book Club at the GRPL ................ 53 Always Something to be Thankful For: HQ Talks about the Power of Gratitude ........................................................... 55

ON THE COVER Row 1: Megan Stubbs, Cathy Starnes, Michelle Krick, Floriza Genautis Row 2: Rachel Franko Row 3: Katie Lyons-Church, Laura Armenta, LaTarro Traylor, Tami VandenBerg PHOTO BY: Two Eagles Marcus

Women’s LifeStyle Magazine • December 2018

womenslifestyle.com 5

10 Ways to Unwrap the Joy

DECEMBER 1

Set the moodscented candles, cinnamon sticks and plenty of holiday lights.

Have a living room campout complete with s’mores.

“‘Tis the season” once again and perhaps time to enhance your entertainment experience. Here are 10 ways to do so. BY PEACHES MCCAHILL

Give them something sweet! Make a batch of old-fashioned Christmas cookies.

Decorate a gingerbread house.

4 7 Spare some space — make room for extra coats and boots.

Rejoice and enjoy every moment. Prepare for house guests by creating a basket of toiletries, lotion and tissues.

Host a caroling party.

“I rejoice in what I have, and I greet the new with open arms.” — Louise Hays

Stock up on extra food and cocktail supplies.

Schedule a progressive dinner with family and or friends

ABOUT THE AUTHOR Peaches McCahill is founder and president of The McCahill Group, a leading provider of health, wellness, beauty and talent solutions, and owner of M Power Studio. She has a passion to inspire others with simplistic lifestyle suggestions.

Women’s LifeStyle Magazine • December 2018

Voluntary RE:action W

■ Dr.

elcome to our volunteer column sponsored by Grand Rapids Community Foundation. Discover which volunteer position best describes you. Pick a cause and react voluntarily!

Seuss Fan

Calling all Dr. Seuss fans and Whoville residents! Participate in the most fun 5K ever with the Who family of characters: The Grinch, Cat in the Hat, Thing 1, Thing 2, Thing 3, Thing 4, Thing 32, Santa and of course Mr. and Mrs. Mayor. The Whoville 5K takes place at 1 pm on Dec. 9 at Riverside Park and is for all ages. Participants get a Whoville shirt, finisher medal, Christmas cookies and hot chocolate. The Whoville crew is looking for a team of fun loving, dedicated volunteers to help out at this year’s event. There are plenty of jobs before, during and after the race, from food prep, runner check-in and registration and set up to course marshals, costume judging and clean up crew. Take Action: Learn more at whoville5k.com.

■ The Big-Hearted Chef

The Revive and Thrive Project is a program where fresh, organic meals are made and delivered to those living with terminal illness. Teen chef volunteers make the meals, which are then delivered by volunteers to the client and their families. Volunteers are always needed to make this operation run. Teens are invited to join and learn from adult chef mentors about how to cook healthy meals and the importance of an organic diet. Adults have many options to lend a hand, from being a chef mentor, a delivery angel or helping with administrative tasks. Take Action: Learn more at reviveandthriveproject.com/volunteer

■ Winter Warrior

Habitat for Humanity of Kent County is looking for winter warrior volunteers this season. No worries, though, there are many indoor opportunities to get signed up for, like framing walls in the panel shop and painting the interiors of homes. Sign up on your own or volunteer with a group!

Volunteer Spotlight

■ Earth Angel

Salvation Army’s annual Angel Tree is a holiday tradition where anonymous donors adopt an “angel” who would otherwise spend Christmas without a present. Upwards of 6,000 children are given gifts each year. Volunteers are essential to make this big event happen, from toy collection, set up and event coordination to clean up afterward. There are many ways to give your time to this amazing cause. Take Action: Sign up at connect.hwmuw.org/need

■ Santa for a Day

Be Santa for a day and bring a pre-wrapped gift to a senior citizen in need this holiday season. Meals on Wheels Western Michigan provides the gift and sets a senior up with the volunteer, and then the volunteer, or “Santa,” delivers the gift, and a smile! Take Action: Sign up at mealsonwheelswesternmichigan.org/ get-involved/volunteer

Does your organization have a volunteer opportunity that would be perfect for this page or an extraordinary volunteer who we should spotlight? Please email our editor, Elyse Wild, at elyse@ womenslifestyle.com.

Shandra Marie Volunteer for GR First Church, National Kidney Foundation and the Mary Kay Foundation

I love volunteering because I truly believe it takes a village to raise a child. If we can reach one person and have a positive impact in their life, that is a life enhanced and changed forever! I love impacting lives one day at a time.”

Take Action: Register at habitatkent.org/volunteer.

“We give to make an impact, no matter how small, and to better the community around us.” - Audrey Mitchell

Meet our One Hundred New Philanthropists You don’t need a million dollars to be a philanthropist; you just need heart and an organization to help you move forward. Learn more by contacting Jenine Torres at 616.454.1751 or jtorres@grfoundation.org. Bryant and Audrey Mitchell, members of 100 New Philanthropists

Women’s LifeStyle Magazine • December 2018

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Tamales! Winter Tradition, Comfort Food and Family Business

amales are a traditional Mexican food typically eaten in the cold winter months. They are made out of cornmeal and commonly filled with meat and sauce. Over time, they have become a delicacy in Mexico, and hold a place in holiday traditions. Mary Martinez, owner of Tamales Mary, the only tamalería in Grand Rapids, located at 1253 Burton St SW, made her first tamale at 9 years old. Like a taquería for tacos, a tamalería is a restaurant that specializes in tamales. “I immigrated to the United States when I was 17 years old,” Martinez said. “Like everyone else, with a dream to work hard.” The next year, at 18, she became pregnant with her first child, and soon found herself working two jobs and struggling to take care of her daughter. To make ends meet while achieving a better work-life balance, she quit one of her jobs and turned to what she knew best: tamales. Martinez started making them out of her small apartment and selling them to her neighbors. “Everyone knew me in those apartments because I would go around with my daughter and a cooler selling them,” she recalled. For Martinez, this harkened back to her childhood when she would come from school and help her mom make tamales and sell them. “I realized that tamales was a good business, and I always dreamed of having a tamale business,” she said. “It was ideal.” Upon moving to Grand Rapids, she started working for Tacos El Cuñado, a popular taquería with several

MARY MARTINEZ

locations around the city. While she could make other food at the restaurant, she knew what her specialty was; with permission from the owners, she began making and selling tamales out of the taquería. She started with traditional tamales, which contain meat and cheese, and added more variety and spices in her recipes as time went on. Soon, she was selling as many tamales as they were selling tacos, and she decided to strike out on her own. “I always dreamt of having a tamalería, so even though I was doing well in Tacos el Cuñado, I wanted my own business,” she said.

“Making tamales is very special because it takes a while to make them, so I put my heart and soul into it. In four years since she started, business is booming. Martinez has expanded to two locations and now operates a food truck; she sells 16 varieties of tamales (including sweet strawberry, shrimp and pork ribs) along with other traditional Mexican dishes, such as beef stew, pork steak in salsa, tacos and more; and she makes upwards of 900 tamales every day. Even on a Monday morning, there’s a steady stream of all kinds of people from the community coming in to get their early lunch takeout, sit down with a friend for the

BY KAYLA SOSA AND LARISSA ESPINOSA buffet, or say hello to Martinez. While she’s continued to expand her business in different ways, she's created a welcoming space for people to not only enjoy her delicious tamales, but each other’s company as well. This time of year is when tamales are most popular, especially in Mexico; the process is labor-intensive, and often many are made at once, to be enjoyed by a gathering of friends and family. “[Eating tamales during the holidays] became a tradition in Mexico, because tamales are more complicated to make than other meals,” Martinez explained. Martinez describes one of the traditions that is tied to the consumption of tamales as Rosca de Reyes, or “Three Kings Bread.” In Mexico, Jan. 6 is celebrated as Día de Los Reyes Magos, or “Three Kings Day,” to honor the three kings who brought gifts to baby Jesus. Gifts are given, festivities are had and Rosca de Reyes, a circular sweet cake topped with dried fruit, is eaten. Inside of each cake is a plastic Baby Jesus. “If you find the Baby Jesus in your slice, it means that you have to host a party on Feb. 2,” Martinez explained.“Each ‘winner’ will have to provide a piece of the party like tamales, beans, sweets, etc.” Martinez said she has customers who come and get dozens of tamales because they got a baby Jesus in their slice, and she is honored to be a part of those celebrations. “Making tamales is very special because it takes a while to make them, so I put my heart and soul into it.”

Women’s LifeStyle Magazine • December 2018

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Women’s LifeStyle Magazine • December 2018

Shop Smart

Shop Local

Gift Guide

Better Way

This cross-body foldover clutch with hand braided strap with an extra zipper pocket and card slot is crafted from Indian Sari in a hand Kantha stitch. $36 at Better Way Designs, 200 S River Ave, Holland. Betterwaydesigns.org

Cut the Mustard

Produced with the ﬁnest Michigan ingredients, Famous Kream Mustard by Brownwood Farms is the perfect complement to your holiday meal, whether as a glaze for the main event, a dip for appetizers or a spread for leftovers. Sweet, hot, creamy, oh, so delicious and $5.99 at Bryon Center Meats, 8375 Freeland Ave SW. Byroncentermeats.com

Beautiful Bib

A perfect gift for the new mom in your life, this adorable E-Z Wipe Holiday Bib in ice blue with candy cane trim and penguin decal will keep their little one clean and cute at every holiday meal. $2 at Two Dutch Hens, 2499 84th St SW.

Zesty

This Microplane zester is crafted with surgical grade stainless steel blades to effortlessly cut through both soft and hard foods, without shredding or tearing. Dishwasher safe. $15 at The Cheese Lady, 315 Fuller Ave NE. Thecheeselady.net

Refresh

Replenish your body and your spirit with this gem-water bottle by VitaJuwel that naturally enhances the oxygenation or alkalinity of the water you add. The gem pod contains a beautiful mix of rose quartz, amethyst and clear quartz, which together promote tranquility and peace. Available for $79 at Spirit Dreams, 1430 Lake Dr. SE. Spiritdreamsgr.com

Pretty Poncho

This poncho in classic red plaid will keep you looking (and feeling) festive all season long. Available for $34.99 at Robinette’s Apple Haus & Winery, 3142 4 Mile Rd NE. Robinettes.com 12

Women’s LifeStyle Magazine • December 2018

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Backwater Cafe

Lowell in the Fur Trade New exhibit: October 2016-August 2018 Lowell played an active role in the international fur trade. Learn why the Lowell area was important, who traded here and visit a recreated trade cabin.

Saturday – Wednesday 5:00am–3:00pm Thursday – Friday 5:00am–7:30pm

Open Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday 1:00pm-4:00pm 616-897-7688 www.lowellmuseum.org history@lowellmuseum.org

Best Food by a Dam Site! 897-6370 • 109 Riverside Dr.

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Women’s LifeStyle Magazine • December 2018

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Where Their Hearts Reside:

The Women Who are Transforming the Heartside Neighborhood

BY KAYLA SOSA | PHOTOGRAPHY BY TWO EAGLES MARCUS

JENN SCHAUB

ANNAMARIE BULLER

ABBEY SLADICK

or decades, the Heartside neighborhood of Grand Rapids has been seen as a developing area with many residents who struggle with homelessness or a mental or physical disability, or both. The neighborhood makes up a signiﬁcant portion of downtown, encompassing some of the city’s most popular nightlife spots, historical landmarks and the center of contemporary arts. Within the Heartside neighborhood, there are a handful of organizations that are doing the “boots on the ground” work to help make the area a viable neighborhood for its residents and the rest of the community. Women hold many of the leadership positions within these organizations, and they have something to say about why their hearts reside here.

REGINA BRADLEY

In all of that work, Bradley has learned to remain consistent, roll with the punches and never take anything personally. She hopes to continue to empower people as well as educate others about the Heartside community.

Co-Chair, Heartside Neighborhood Association

Regina Bradley’s day-to-day mission in her work is all things relating to housing stability for the residents of Grand Rapids, speciﬁcally those who are homeless and have some form of a disability.

MALLORY PATTERSON

When residents are struggling to stay “on track,” Bradley steps in to provide assistance and guidance to those who are housed through Dwelling Place, from connecting them with a doctor, helping them gain employment and obtain essential household items, addressing issues with neighbors, and helping them keep their apartments clean and safe.

As a resident and local business owner, the neighborhood is close to Mallory Patterson’s heart; so much so that she is helping to “lay the foundation” for the new Heartside Neighborhood Association (HNA). The HNA holds monthly potlucks that are open to the public to discuss what’s happening in the neighborhood, problem solve and connect.

In this work, Bradley has learned to “embrace and celebrate the small things.”

“The best way to improve a community is to empower its residents to change the things they can, inﬂuence the decisions of people who affect their community and raise their voice when it's important to speak up,” Patterson expressed. “I have seen people grow and come out of their shells to make a really big impact on some pressing issues. Sometimes all it takes is a spark.”

Bradley said the hardest realization for her was that the people she supports could be her. “I love the rawness and strength of my Heartside people. Life has hit them hard, and yet they still stand with a story to tell.”

JOANNA JELKS

place with deep roots, a rugged history and a vibrant future, one I plan to be a part of. It's more important than ever to support and uplift voices who are often left out of the conversation to make sure we grow together, not over each other.”

“It's a special place with deep roots, The next step for the HNA is to ofﬁcially make it a 501c3 non-proﬁt to create more opportunities in the a rugged history and a vibrant neighborhood. Patterson: “Plant the seed, water it and watch it grow.” future, one I plan to be a part of. It's more important than ever to LATESHA LIPSCOMB, JD support and uplift voices who are Community Engagement Project Manager, City Grand Rapids – Design & Development often left out of the conversation to ofPlanning Division make sure we grow together, not Latesha Lipscomb works with the neighbors of over each other.”—Mallory Patterson, Heartside to learn about the issues they face and solve

Resident Services Coordinator, Dwelling Place of Grand Rapids

“I work with individuals who come with long histories of trauma from childhood, addictions, health disparities, pain that they carry with them,” she commented. “I had to learn that as much as I may want for someone to change, they just are not ready.”

ALYSHA LACH

Impact Producer, Wrinkle Creative Co-Chair, Heartside Neighborhood Association

Patterson said she gives her time to her neighborhood of more than four years because it’s currently at a crossroads; she wants to make sure her community gets the support it needs as the downtown area continues to develop rapidly. “While I may not always live here, my heart will always be in Heartside," she divulged. “It's a special

them in the best way possible. Many of those problems are complex and require multi-faceted solutions and discussions within the community. Lipscomb is the project manager for the Heartside Quality of Life Study conducted by the City of Grand Rapids’ Planning Department. Additionally, she is a longtime resident and business owner in the neighborhood. “I have learned that when you give everyday people a platform, even in the midst of some troubled realities, they can and will provide positive solutions as invaluable feedback,” she expressed. By including the community in the conversation about positive change within the neighborhood, Lipscomb says it has been a “game changer.” “I have seen the good, the bad and the sometimes ugly growing pains of Heartside over the last few years," she commented. “This neighborhood is in dire need of continued support, activation and development that takes the pulse of the neighborhood into consideration when critical decisions in design and development are being made.”

ABBEY SLADICK

VP of Communication, Mel Trotter Ministries Abbey Sladick tries to spread awareness about the people of Heartside and the issues they face, as well as

Women’s LifeStyle Magazine • December 2018

“Every day I work to show people in West Michigan, through various mediums, that men, women and children who are experiencing homelessness were created in the image of God and that they have value and talents that make our community a better place,” she said. “There are several goals in sharing these stories: providing healing for the guests, help break down the stigma of homelessness, bring in donations, volunteers and prayer support for the programs and services at Mel Trotter Ministries so we can serve more people.”

VanBrouwer said her favorite part of all her work is the relationships she continues to build with the neighbors. The ministry has seen positive changes through the work it has done, from the free GED program which saw over 55 graduates this year, to the drop-in art studio where anyone can come in to create with paints or pottery and more. More than 100 people visit the ministry’s community room daily, to get out of the weather, use the restroom or grab a cup of coffee. Neighbors can also receive free counseling, dog therapy and resources for anything they might need. Additionally, there is a worship service every Sunday in the chapel. VanBrouwer said she feels called to this service work.

Sladick said because homelessness is such a complex problem in our city, she sometimes feels defeated. But when she’s reminded of the partnerships Mel Trotter has made with other organizations in Grand Rapids working on the same issue, she feels hope that we can make a “greater impact, together.”

“In these places, I ﬁnd hope and grace and mercy,” she said. “I barely have to open my eyes to see God incarnate. Every day, I get to be in relationships and create spaces for the people that our society has shoved to the edges. It's in these people that I ﬁnd our joint humanity and where I feel home.”

“I think the greatest impact I can make in my work is to keep the issue of homelessness on the forefront of everyone’s mind, not just during the holidays,” she said.

Many of the neighbors experience similar problems, and in working with them, VanBrouwer has seen a “togetherness” form between the community members and a strong resilience within themselves and supporting each other.

who they are, by telling the stories of people at Mel Trotter.

REV. KELLY VANBROUWER Associate Director, Heartside Ministry United Church of Christ ordained minister

At Heartside Ministry, Reverend Kelly VanBrouwer not only does administrative work for the church, but also works directly in the community. She supervises programs and staff, volunteers, fundraising and connecting with other churches. She also oversees the advocacy program, provides free counseling and is the owner of the ministries’ therapy dog, Bean.

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“There is a deep understanding that they share with each other that creates this recognition of the humanness in each other,” she explained. “When you need one another to help keep you warm as you try to sleep on a doorstep in the middle of January, you aren’t concerned about their mistakes or their cultural heritage or their sexuality. You recognize the shared humanity in each other.”

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Johannah Jelks operates the art gallery and studio at Heartside Ministry, where many neighborhood residents spend time creating art, whether it’s through the use of fiber arts, ceramics woodworking, printmaking or more. She also hosts Heartside Artists bi-monthly showcases by partnering with local businesses in the area. “Everything in my work is an extension of encouragement for the Heartside neighbors and artists,” Jelks said. “What I find most challenging is the need for diverse representation in volunteers for the Art Gallery. It is so important for the Heartside artists to receive different experiences and perspectives in the art studio... many of our Heartside artists overcome very difficult challenges using art as a therapeutic expression.” The studio and gallery is dedicated to providing a space for showing artists’ unique responses to the experiences of their lives, as well as offering guidance and opportunity. The art therapy program “specifically encourages the neighbors to feel open to express themselves whether in grief, stress or start positive new chapters.” In ArtPrize 10, Heartside artists were able to display their art in an entry titled, “A Family Affair” at ANTI-PHOTOAGING SYSTEM Site:Lab and the Heartside Gallery, and interact with Custom system clinically proven to correct the visible signs of aging visitors about their work. CLEANSE Reveal a fresh and radiant complexion with

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LATESHA LIPSCOMB

SUZANNE REININK

MALLARY PATTERSON

JENN SCHAUB

Director of Community Building and Engagement, Dwelling Place In Dwelling Place’s Neighborhood Revitalization Department, Jenn Schaub helps to solve housing problems by working with all the parties involved: residents, organizations and businesses. Dwelling Place oversees about 600 apartment units within Heartside. One of the most recent projects Schaub has been involved in is getting new lighting on South Division Avenue.

“...We must stay passionate but also patient, knowing there is always much to be done and there is no one solution that can meet all of the community’s needs,” Buller said. “Problems like public restrooms, fresh food access and substance abuse...are complicated issues that require multiple collaborators and resources to address fully.”

ALYSHA LACH WHITE

Illustrator and Founder/Creative Director of Little Space Studio (111 S Division), Co-chair of the Heartside Neighborhood Association

Schaub said in order to create solutions for everyone, everyone has to be involved in the conversation.

After the Heartside Neighborhood Association dissolved in 2011, Alysha Lach White, along with Patterson (page 14), is one of the people involved in starting the HNA up again and managing the process of making it an official non-profit. Why does she care so much about this specific community? She says she wants to change the decades-old narrative Grand Rapids residents have been telling or hearing about the Heartside neighborhood.

“Our residents are both tender, ﬁercely strong and creative.” Schaub said. “The buildings in our neighborhood are beautiful and the organizations are full of heart and our businesses are dedicated and unique, so Heartside is extra awesome. We have an amazing history as a neighborhood caring for people and being the epicenter for good in Grand Rapids, and that is what makes us #heartsidestrong.”

“Stigma is a tough barrier to engaging people who don't understand our neighborhood and its many layers,” Lach White said. “It's hard to get people outside of the neighborhood to shop, experience art and culture, and support fellow downtown neighbors when all they focus on is the homeless and drug activity. Yes, these things are a reality of our area, but we are so much more than that.”

ANNAMARIE BULLER

Lach White has learned over the years as a small business owner that it is essential to treat each human in the neighborhood with “dignity and respect.” When a homeless person approaches her for help, she does her best to offer them the information and resources they may need.

“We've been advocating for better lighting in our neighborhood, and are excited that the City of Grand Rapids has committed to installing new lighting along a portion of South Division in the next year,” Schaub said.

Manager of Resident Experience, Downtown Grand Rapids Inc. Board Chairwoman, Dwelling Place At Downtown Grand Rapids, Inc, Annamarie Buller is focused on the conversations around Heartside. She is involved in the Quality of Life Survey and oversees Goal 2 Alliance, a plan to create a Downtown neighborhood. At Dwelling Place, Buller also chairs the Resident Engagement Committee, which helps to ensure that residents of Dwelling Place “can become more involved in leadership roles in their properties and the neighborhoods and cities where they live.” The heart of solving complex issues like those that affect Heartside is through developing and sustaining relationships within the community. Through these relationships, she said she has met and worked with many people who are passionate about making change and committing to the sometimes long and challenging process to actualization.

“I try to help as many people as possible understand that though it is uncomfortable for a homeless person to ask for help, whether it be for money or food, you can still greet them pleasantly and be kind,” she expressed. “Even if you have nothing to offer but a smile.” Lach White hopes people change their stereotypes or biases about Heartside, and see it as a whole; instead of seeing it only for some of the struggles it encompasses, and also recognize the beauty it contains as a home for many unique individuals. With small businesses, emerging artists, low income and market rate housing, nightlife and shopping located right in Heartside, Lach White says: “There is so much to appreciate here! Give it a chance with a fresh perspective.”

REV. KELLY VANBROUWER

SUZANNE REININK Human Resources Director, Dégagé

Suzanne Reinink started volunteering at Dégagé 15 years ago with her family. They started out by doing bingo and birthday lunch events, to now offering meals and games on Christmas morning. Seven years ago, Dégagé asked Reinink if she would join the staff as Program Manager, and since then she has taken on other roles. “We felt and feel strongly that we are called to show God’s love by serving and walking alongside others; that everything we have is not for us to keep and hoard, but to share,” she said. “This includes our time, talents and treasure.” Dégagé offers both immediate and long-term programs and services for the homeless and disenfranchised people in our community; this includes immediate needs like a shower, laundry, a hot meal and a haircut, to long-term needs, such as the overnight shelter for women experiencing homelessness, called the Open Door Women’s Center. “Our patron advocate is available during the day to assist women in setting goals and searching for affordable housing,” Reinink explained. “They are given fresh linens, hygiene services, a hot meal, prayer and vital support during a turbulent time.” Currently, the shelter can hold 40 women, and Reinink said there is usually a waiting list. “I’d like to see more women’s shelters, more temporary shelters/housing for families and young adults,” she said. Dégagé also offers assistance with I.D. services, helping people track down important record documents, like birth certiﬁcates and social security cards. The Resource Ofﬁce gives individuals oneon-one support in the housing process, referrals for health, dental and vision needs, and more. The Dining Room serves over 60,000 meals a year to patrons along Division Avenue. They also offer community vouchers which work as cash for certain goods and services, for people to give to panhandlers in lieu of money. Kayla Sosa is a multimedia journalism student at GVSU. She’s a local freelance writer and enjoys spending time with her husband, her kitty and her family. When she’s not writing, she likes to go on nature walks, do yoga and paint.

Women’s LifeStyle Magazine • December 2018

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Women’s LifeStyle Magazine • December 2018

Wonderful Winter COCKTAIL RECIPES

THAT WILL HELP YOU BRAVE THE COLD L

BY SAMANTHA SUAREZ | PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAVID SPECHT

ittle known fact: winter is the best season to enjoy a drink. After all, you’re stuck inside most of the time, it’s freezing cold, and there are fewer daylight hours. Who wouldn’t need a little bit more cheer in their life? But what are the best drinks for the winter setting? Sure, you can sip on some wine, but there’s something special about a cocktail designed speciﬁcally for colder months. At the same time, one too many rounds of eggnog and hot toddies will surely set off palate fatigue. To help step up our winter drinking game, we teamed up with Brent Temple, Beverage Director for Gray Skies Distillery, and he showed us how

MOONLIT MORNING

Best enjoyed while cozying up by a ﬁre. “Think of this as a richer whiskey sour with a whole egg instead of just egg whites,” said Temple. “We call it the Moonlit Morning because of the egg and the fact that we use a breakfast rye. Plus, there’s maple syrup, nutmeg and walnut bitters in it.” 2 ounces Rye (a rye whiskey ﬁnished in Bliss maple syrup casks) 1/3 ounce of extra Bliss maple syrup 1/2 ounce of lemon juice A dash of saline solution 1 whole egg aromatic bitters walnut bitters nutmeg

it’s done. “People are more apt to drink heavier liquors when it’s cold, so winter cocktails are usually more booze-forward. You get a lot more whiskeys, spiced rum, and brandies, whereas in the summer you get fruiter and brighter proﬁles like gin, vodka, and lighter rum,” he told us. “Winter cocktails are also typically richer in ﬂavor, which you can achieve by incorporating eggs or cream into the drink or by using seasonal ingredients.” So if want to enjoy a few glasses of originality when the temperature drops, keep reading and get four Gray Skies Distillery cocktail recipes with a winter-friendly twist.

Mix all ingredients together in a shaking tin and give it a dry shake (no ice). Optional: To add more of a frothing effect, Brent recommends using a cut-up spring from a classic Hawthorne spring strainer and then placing it into the shaking tin before shaking the mixture. The spring acts as a whipping agent. Add light ice into the shaking tin and shake again for 8 - 12 seconds. You want to dilute the cocktail but not too much. Pour into a glass and wait 10 - 15 seconds. “When it’s an egg-based cocktail, if you wait a little bit, the proteins will start to solidify, so when you put your bitters, it will actually sit on top of the drink instead of mixing into it,” said Temple. Add a few drops of the bitters and grate nutmeg on top.

THE MERCHANT

Best enjoyed while roasting chestnuts or toasting marshmallows. If you play a lot of video games, especially RPGs, you’ll know that the merchant is a very exciting character to run into on your adventures. This drink is no different. With aromas of vanilla, cinnamon, smoke, coffee, and honey, this cocktail smells like you just entered a merchant’s den while he was brewing a potion. 1 1/2 ounces spiced rum 3/4 ounce coffee liqueur

1 bar spoon of cinnamon-clove infused honey syrup 2 dashes of aromatic bitters 1 cinnamon stick 2 cloves On a ﬁre-safe surface, light the cloves and cinnamon stick until it starts smoking. Invert your old-fashioned glass and place on top of the smoking ingredients, covering them. Add the rum, coffee liqueur, honey syrup, and bitters into a mixing tin. Add ice and stir for 10 seconds. Flip over your glass and add 1 large ice cube into the smoke-ﬁlled glass. Pour contents of mixing tin into the glass. Garnish with lemon peel.

For more winter cocktail recipes, visit womenslifestyle.com

Women’s LifeStyle Magazine • December 2018

Wishing you a very Merry Christmas filled with peace and contentment.

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Grace Ames Van Hoesen (1870-1959 ) Suffragist, Kent County Commissioner

BRIDGE STREET BAND Thursday, December 13 6:30 pm West Side Branch 713 Bridge St NW Headed by native Grand Rapidian Walt Gutowski, the Bridge Street Band performs throughout Michigan. Playing all the hits and specializing in smooth jazz, the band is comprised of amazing local musicians including Walt’s daughters Jessica and Victoria.

The Burden: It’s Time to Put it Down Thursday, December 13 7:00 pm Main Library 111 Library St NE Author and journalist Rochelle Riley will lead an overdue conversation about race as she discusses her book, The Burden: African Americans and the Enduring Impact of Slavery. The Burden is a plea to America to understand what life post-slavery remains like for many African Americans. A book signing will follow the presentation.

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n 1915, after working as a bookkeeper for 23 years, Grace Ames Van Hoesen took courses at the University of Chicago on industrial education and juvenile delinquency and ran for the Grand Rapids School Board. Touted as the ﬁrst “businesswoman” to enter politics, she still lost. In 1919 she ran again and lost. By this time, Van Hoesen had also joined and become president of the Equal Franchise Club; chaired committees on women in industry for the state’s Equal Suffrage Association and the local WWI Woman’s Committee for the Council of National Defense; and contributed to the success of the 1918 Michigan campaign for equal voting rights. She published her account in The Woman Citizen: “Michigan’s Incontrovertible Majority: Why Grand Rapids Was Won.” As a “moving spirit” behind the organization of the Grand Rapids League of Women Voters, Van Hoesen reinvested her experience as a working woman in lectures on voting for

EVENTS ARE FREE AND OPEN TO THE PUBLIC 616.988.5400 WWW.GRPL.ORG Many of these programs are funded by the Grand Rapids Public Library Foundation.

groups like the Woman’s Association of Commerce and in later publications on city government. Her influence in the newly formed Michigan League of Women Voters led to her vice presidency in 1920 and attendance at the League’s first national congress in Chicago, held in conjunction with the Nineteenth Amendment victory convention of the national suffrage association. Before returning to elective politics, Van Hoesen led a local peace movement in 1921 and advocated for labor reform at the International Congress of Women Workers in Switzerland in 1922. In 1923, she ran for a seat on the city commission. She lost, but continued modeling political campaigning for women. Finally, in 1930 Van Hoesen won a place in Grand Rapids elective history as the first woman both to run for and to win a seat on the Kent County Commission, where she served for eight years during the Depression. Few have so fully distinguished themselves in Grand Rapids civic and elective affairs as Grace Ames Van Hoesen.

The Greater Grand Rapids Women’s History Council is dedicated to educating the community and celebrating the legacies of local women, preserving knowledge of their past and inspiring visions for their future. For more information or to get involved, visit ggrwhc.org

Women’s LifeStyle Magazine • December 2018

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Thinking Putty

Crazy Aaron’s Thinking Putty is a must have this holiday season. Made for fans of all ages, it stretches, bounces, sparkles and even glows in the dark! Best of all, it’s poppable soft texture never dries out. Manufactured with the help of exceptional individuals with disabilities. Available for $15 at The Playroom Gift Shop, the museum store at the Grand Rapids Children’s Museum,11 Sheldon Ave NE. Grcm.org

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Respecting animals is everybody’s duty, but loving them is the privilege of just a few. Open up your home this holiday season to a cat in need of fostering from Tyson’s place. Apply at tysonsplacerescue.org.

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Stay cozy and cute this winter with this gray beanie topped with a cheery bright pink angora pom with authentic fur. Available for $98 at Studio K, 43 E 8th St #120, Holland. Kstudiohome.com

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Women’s LifeStyle Magazine • December 2018

Wishing you and yours a holiday season full of light and warmth. Join in the fun this December for the annual Christmas in Byron Center starting mid November through the new year! Warm up next to a ﬁre-pit and celebrate the lights and sounds of Christmas with family and friends. For more information, visit bryroncenterchamber.org.

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Women’s LifeStyle Magazine • December 2018

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Your Favorite Holiday Recipes— with a Healthy Twist BY DANEA MATHER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY AUGUST NYSON

his month, we asked YOU, Women’s LifeStyle Magazine readers, for your favorite family holiday recipes, and how you would like to see them remixed for your modern palate. Here are four delicious, lifestyle friendly, seasonal dishes to try out and share at your next gathering.

CRANBERRY THYME SORBET Makes 3 cups of sorbet The request: A twist on Cranberry sauce, with less sugar and real fruit. 1 8 ounce bag of frozen cranberries, thawed 3 oranges, juice of 1 teaspoons orange zest 1 cup 100% cranberry juice 1/4 cup sugar, white or coconut 1 teaspoon dried thyme

Blend together cranberries, orange juice, orange zest and cranberry juice until completely pureed. Transfer to a large saucepan and bring to a light simmer. Whisk in sugar and thyme and continue until sugar is dissolved. Remove from heat and allow to cool to room temperature. Strain mixture into a freezer safe container and freeze for a minimum of four hours. Before scooping to serve, allow sorbet to soften at room temperature slightly. Serve with an orange peel garnish, and maybe even a splash of gin over top for an extra festive twist! (CONTINUED ON PAGE 26)

Women’s LifeStyle Magazine • December 2018

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Women’s LifeStyle Magazine • December 2018

Women’s Consignment Boutique in East Hills. • Antropologie, Talbots, J. Crew, Banana Republic, Free People, Express, & More • Consignment Accepted: Thursday’s, Friday’s and Saturday’s

145 Diamond Ave Se | (616) 805-6848

un-Bowlievable acai, smoothies, juices, wraps, toasts and more Fruition Acai & Juice Bar • 1405 Lake Dr

(CONTINUED FROM PAGE 24)

GREEN BEAN CASSEROLE Makes: (1) 9X13” casserole

The request: Classic green bean casserole, made vegan and gluten-free. 1/4 cup dairy-free butter plus more for melting 8-10 ounces mushrooms, finely minced 1 large yellow onion 4 large garlic cloves, minced 1 tablespoon salt 1 teaspoon pepper 3 cups mushroom broth 1 cup almond milk, unsweetened 3 tablespoon ground flaxseed 1 pound green beans, washed, trimmed, and cut into 1-inch pieces gluten-free breadcrumbs Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Blanch green beans for 3-5 minutes, drain and rinse with cool water. Preheat oven to 400 degrees and lightly spray a 9x13-inch glass baking pan. Add blanched green beans to pan in an even layer. Cut yellow onion in half. Set one half aside and finely mince remaining onion.

In a medium saucepan, heat a small amount of oil or dairy free butter. Slice remaining yellow onion very thinly and add to pan. Sauté, stirring often, until onion is wilted and browned. This will take about 15 minutes. Remove from pan and toss in gluten-free breadcrumbs. Set aside to use as a topping. In a large saucepan, melt 1/4 cup dairy free butter. Add in mushrooms, minced onion, and garlic. Sauté until very soft and onions are transparent. Stir in salt, pepper and mushroom broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until liquid reduces by half. Stir occasionally. Slowly whisk in almond milk, then ground ﬂaxseed. Allow to simmer, occasionally whisking, until sauce is very thick and holds to whisk. Pour sauce over green beans in baking pan. Gently press down with a spatula over green beans. Spread sautéed onions over casserole, then sprinkle remaining gluten-free bread crumbs over entire dish in a generous layer. Bake for 35 minutes, or until bread crumbs are browned and edges of casserole are bubbling. Remove from oven and enjoy!

CHEESY SCALLOPED RUTABAGA Makes: (1) 8x10-inch casserole The request: My favorite dish to make is scalloped potatoes, but now I am on an Auto Immune Protocol diet. Please make anti-inﬂammatory version, with no potatoes and no dairy. 1 1 1 4 1/2 1 10 1/8 1

large rutabaga large yellow onion yellow skinned squash garlic cloves cup cashews, soaked minimum 2 hours tablespoon salt tablespoon nutritional yeast cup dairy free butter, melted medium white onion, diced garlic powder black pepper chives, for garnish

Preheat oven to 350 degrees Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Rinse and peel rutabaga, then cut rutabaga into quarters, lengthwise. Thinly slice rutabaga quarters until you have all triangular slices, about 1/8-inch thick. Blanch sliced rutabaga for 5 minutes in boiling water. Drain, rinse and set aside. Bring another pot of water to a boil. Peel and roughly cut down yellow onion. Cut yellow squash, skin on, into large pieces. Add yellow onion, yellow squash

and garlic cloves to boiling water. Boil until very soft, then drain and transfer vegetables to a high-speed blender. Add soaked cashews, salt and nutritional yeast to blender and blend on high until a smooth sauce is formed. Set aside. Generously spray a baking dish, then layer half of the rutabaga slices in an overlapping pattern across the bottom of dish. Slowly drizzle half of the melted dairy free butter over rutabaga slices. Add half of the minced white onion to pan, then sprinkle a generous layer of garlic powder, then black pepper, over onion. Carefully pour a thick layer of cheese sauce over onions in baking dish and use a spatula to gently spread evenly. Repeat these layers: rutabaga slices, melted butter, white onions, garlic powder, black pepper, and remaining cheese sauce. Spread top layer of sauce evenly over entire dish. Place baking dish in oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. Dish is ready when edges are browned and bubbling and the top center of cheese sauce is golden in color. Cut and serve in slices, topped with fresh black pepper and chives. (CONTINUED ON PAGE 28)

Women’s LifeStyle Magazine • December 2018

crystals • aromatherapy • natural body care • incense • candles jewelry • books • music • cards meditation tools • unique gifts

Intuitive / Psychic Readers ~ Reiki and Energy Therapy The Rev. Vivian Love Kyle • Intuitive Angel Reader

Intuitive artist and counselor who channels messages from the angelic realm. Her clients receive insights and guidance from those entities and spirits with which they are surrounded. Vivian is a 5th generation medium who continues the legacy as teacher, spiritual counselor, and healer. www.loveisvictorious.com

Eugenia Marve • Psychic • Medical Intuitive • Medium

Awarded educator, workshop facilitator, Psychic over 45 years. Gives clients information about relationships, economics, health and those not present. International and national phone or Skype readings available. God is her foundation. www.marvecreations.com

Margaret Newman Nickelsen • Psychic Reader

Over 40 years experience reading for people from all walks of life. Each reading is unique, personal, in an atmosphere of calm assurance. Margaret is a certified Spiritual Director. Your Divine Self guides your reading. www.jokersjourney.com

Beth Ann Townsend • Traditional Healing & Educator

Beth offers Craniosacral, Reiki, Traditional Healing Modalities and Energy Therapies creating an integrative approach to wellness. She has studied and practiced with Traditional Elders for over 35 years. www.healingtraditionsgr.com

Call (616) 456-9889 to Schedule

$40 for 1/2 hour reading, $80 1 hour. Gift certificates available.

spirit dreams

1430 Lake Drive SE • Grand Rapids, MI 49506 • www.spiritdreamsgr.com HOURS: M-F 10-6 • Wed 10-7 • Sat 10-5 • Sun 11-4

I love that place!

WE’VE GOT THE PERFECT GIFT FOR EVERYONE ON YOUR LIST!

Moms, sisters, grandmas, babysitters, teacherswe even have something for the person who has everything.

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65 E BRIDGE ST NE, ROCKFORD

4665 Cascade Rd SE • (616) 956-6747 • kennedyfloral.com Women’s LifeStyle Magazine • December 2018

HOLIDAY HAPPY HOUR: DEC 6, 6-8PM DISCOUNTS, DRINKS & DISCO

(CONTINUED FROM PAGE 26)

THREE CHEESE WHITE CHICKEN LASAGNA

Makes (1) 9x13-inch pan of lasagna The request: This is my family’s favorite holiday dish. Make it dairy free, please! Pine Nut Parmesan 1/2 cup toasted pine nuts 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano 1/2 teaspoon dried basil 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder Tofu Ricotta 1 16 oz package extra ﬁrm tofu 1 cup cashews, soaked minimum 2 hours 3/4 cup almond milk 1 lemon, juice of, 2 tablespoon nutritional yeast 2 teaspoon salt 2 teaspoon dried oregano 2 teaspoon dried basil Dairy-free White Cheddar Sauce 3 tablespoon dairy free butter 3 tablespoon ﬂour 4 cups almond milk 2 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon garlic powder 4 teaspoon nutritional yeast

Lasagna 3 layers of lasagna noodles, cooked, rinsed and set aside 2 10 ounce packages frozen spinach, thawed and drained 1 pound cooked, shredded chicken breast fresh parsley, chopped Pine Nut Parmesan Add all ingredients to a food processor and carefully pulse until pine nuts are pulverized into small granules. Stop pulsing at this point. Do not pulse further, as pine nuts will become smooth. Set aside for garnish.

Tofu Ricotta: Add all ingredients to a food processor. Pulse, then blend until completely combined and slightly gritty. Stop blending before mixture becomes smooth. Set aside. Dairy Free White Cheddar Sauce: In a large saucepan, melt dairy-free butter. Whisk in ﬂour, 1 tablespoon at a time to combine with butter. This will form the base of a roux. Continue to whisk and very slowly, begin to pour a slow stream of almond milk into pan, 1/4 cup at a time. Once almond milk is combined into roux, add another 1/4 cup until all 4 cups are added. Don’t add almond milk too fast, as this will prevent sauce from thickening. Once sauce base is created, whisk in salt, garlic powder and nutritional yeast. Taste and adjust spices if need be. Allow sauce to simmer lightly, whisking occasionally, until it is very thick and bubbly. If sauce becomes too thick, whisk in a few additional tablespoons of almond milk. Set aside to build lasagna. Lasagna: Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Spray a 9x13-inch baking pan. Add a thin layer of white cheddar sauce to the bottom of baking dish. Use a spatula to spread over base of dish. In this order, layer: 1 1/2 1 1 1/2 1/3

layer of cooked lasagna noodles tofu ricotta, gently spread with spatula bag of frozen spinach, loosely sprinkled tablespoon fresh chopped parsley, over spinach pound shredded chicken, loosely sprinkled white cheddar sauce, gently spread with spatula

Repeat these layers a second time, then top with ﬁnal layer of lasagna noodles and remaining white cheddar sauce. Spread sauce evenly atop dish. Place lasagna in oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, until edges of pan are golden brown and center of white cheddar sauce is slightly golden. Remove from oven and allow to sit for 10 minutes before serving. Cut into slices and serve garnished with Pine Nut Parmesan and fresh parsley.

Women’s LifeStyle Magazine • December 2018

Steak and seafood gift boxes and gift certificates for personal and corporate holiday gift giving Highest quality fresh and frozen local meats including 100% grass-fed beef, all natural chicken and Michigan-raised pork Wide selection of seafood, lamb, goat, bison, and veal Monthly specials and meat bundles to stock your freezers Call ahead with your special order for prime rib, hams, pork crown roasts, tenderloin and more

USDA Choice Prime Rib Roasts for Christmas and New Years’ Celebrations Hand carved and hand tied by our master butchers. Seasoned for free. Boneless $14.99 / lb. Bone-In $14.69 / lb. Call ahead or order online at byroncentermeats.com

Call us at (616) 878-1578

or order online at www.byroncentermeats.com Open Monday – Friday: 7am to 6pm, Saturday: 7am to 3pm

8375 Freeland Avenue SW, Downtown Byron Center 3 miles west of the Tanger Outlets at US131 and 84th Street

a gift for you

www.4gr8food.com

Women’s LifeStyle Magazine • December 2018

Shop Smart

Shop Local

Gift Guide

Pashmina Scarf

Cashmere wool, fashion, warmth and a variety of colors to complement any outﬁt for her or for him this holiday season. Sound too good to be true? Meet Pashmina scarves at Shakedown Street. For $25, these scarves ensure longlasting style, comfort and warmth. 670 Leonard St NW. Shakedownstreetgr.com

A Work of Art

This beautifully crafted leather and gold necklace and earring set by InSync design are strikingly evocative of large-scale sculpture work. Worn together or alone, each piece is a dazzling addition to any ensemble. $175 (necklace), $130 (earings).Available at the Grand Rapids Art Museum Store, 101 Monroe Center. Artmusuemgr.org

Turkish Towels

Join the Turkish Towel craze and discover how great they are for the bath, beach, park or even as a fashion accessory for your outﬁts or home. Let these super soft, highly absorbent, hand-loomed towels keep your loved ones comfortable and fashionable this year. Buy them for $35 each at Fox Naturals, 619 Wealthy St SE A. Fox-naturals.com

Ode to Joy

Scatter Joy this holiday season with these refillable holiday cube arrangements. Bring in your Scatter Joy arrangement for FREE weekly refills through January 2019! The gift that keeps on giving! Only $15 each or 3 for $30 at Kennedy’s Floral, 4665 Cascade Rd SE. Kennedyfloral.com

Wine, Yes

Shatterproof and stylish with easy grip sides and a slip-resistant silicone bottom, this Corkcicle Insulated Stemless Wine Glass will keep your wine just right, whether you are snuggling up on the couch or enjoying the great outdoors. Available in a variety of colors. $24.99 at Rylee’s Ace Hardware, 1234 Michigan St NE. Ryleesace.com

Women’s LifeStyle Magazine • December 2018

Shop, Donate & Save.

November & December 2018. Bring in 4 Food Items & Get 25% Off*

A FAMILY & LOCALLY OWNED BOUTIQUE

Discover the perfect gift for someone special

*regular priced items

Kendall Lighting Center

810 Scribner NW (616) 459-8866 www.kendalllightingcenter.com Hours: Mon., Tues., Wed. & Fri 8:30-6, Thurs. 8:30-8, Sat. 10-2 Appointments recommended for house orders

6504 28th St. SE Suite E Grand Rapids,MI 49546 (616) 214-8513 shopparooz.com

Private event space with an outside deck. Just right for Rehearsal Dinners, Intimate Wedding Receptions, Baby Showers, Birthday Parties and Business Meetings. Free Parking • Easy to find • Available 7 days a week

Call Cheryle at (616) 901-8789 cheryle@duenorthcatering.com

The Summit by Due North Catering • Right next to Timbers Inn in Rockford 6585 Belding Rd., Suite 2A • (616) 901-8789 • www.duenorthcatering.com Women’s LifeStyle Magazine • December 2018

Shop Smart

Shop Local

Gift Guide

Design Quest

Bjørn Wiinblad - a Danish Master. The Rosalinde porcelain vase with a hand-applied black motif of one of Bjørn Wiinblad’s well-known feminine forms adds a creative element to your home and a reﬁned graphical expression. The attractive Rosalinde tray is decorated with a ﬁnely detailed Wiinblad print. It’s made of molded veneer and dishwasher safe. $120 (vase) and $35 (tray) at Design Quest, 4181 28th St SE. Designquest.biz

Christmas at the Cabin

The name says it best. You are sure to have that “Christmas at the Cabin” feeling with this holiday design. Wintergreens and berries are accented with pine cones, magnolia, and ribbon in a rustic wooden box. Available in three sizes. Priced $60-$95 at Eastern Floral, 2836 Broadmoor Ave SE. Easternﬂoral.com

Sew on

This Baby Lock quality sewing machine comes with 25 built-in stitches, built-in needle threader, and, of course, free lessons! Available for $199 at Family Sewing. 4950 Wilson Ave SW. Familysewing.com

Fur Real

Look luxurious all winter long in this positively stunning Rockler Fur Co. coat. The luxurious, navy dyed swakara 3/4 length coat complete with a navy dyed genuine silver fox fur collar and skirt adds just the right amount of glamour to make you look and feel your best through the winter months. New inventory, no price available. Available at Bella Furs, 660 Croswell SE. Bellafurs.com

Outstanding Ottoman

This faux leather Crosby storage ottoman comes in three charming colors — orange, green or blue to add an uplighting splash of color to any room. Measure 18-by18-inches. $119 at Stonesthrow Living Stonesthrow, 1428 Plainﬁeld Avenue. Stonesthowliving.com 32

Women’s LifeStyle Magazine • December 2018

FACIAL BAR

Lex is Grand Rapids’ first and only facial bar. In today’s fast paced world it isn’t always easy to find the time to take care of your skin and that’s where Lex comes in. Our facial bar offers all the benefits of a full facial treatment like nourishment, hydration, balancing, deep pore cleansing, and it only takes 30 minutes! The facial is performed in a chair which means no wasted time with the massage and extractions.

ALL NATURAL PRODUCTS

At Lex we believe you don’t need chemicals to see results. For our facials we use the Arcona skin care line. Arcona products contain no petrochemicals, binders or fillers, chemical stabilizers, parabens, sodium lauryl sulphates, perfumes, dyes, or any other caustic, toxic ingredients.

A LUXURY DAY SPA EXPERIENCE While we offer express services, we also understand the importance of making time to indulge yourself. Check out our happy hour on Wednesday 3-7, Thursday 3-7 and Friday 3-6 for special pricing on facials, CBD foot treatments, pedicures, spray tans, brow waxes and tints!

Expect real results---- naturally • • • •

FACIAL BAR + SPA

FACIALS MASSAGES SPRAY TANS MANICURES

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48 LOGAN ST SW SUITE 155 (616) 591-8197 LEXFACIALBAR.COM

FOSTER A PET

Tyson’s Place Animal Rescue assists terminally ill people with finding new families for their pets. You can provide an animal a loving and comfortable home during their time of transition.

ALL EXPENSES COVERED tysonsplacerescue.org/be-a-pet-foster-parent

Christmas Cheer

forSomeone Dear EasternFloral

LAMILLERBOUTIQUE.COM

65 E BRIDGE ST NE, ROCKFORD

Grand Rapids • Grand Haven • Holland 616.949.2200 • www.easternfloral.com Women’s LifeStyle Magazine • December 2018

HOLIDAY HAPPY HOUR: DEC 6, 6-8PM DISCOUNTS, DRINKS & DISCO

BY KELSEY MCCRACKEN

Refresh Your Holiday Décor

t’s that time of year where we start to get our holiday décor back out! Many of us pull out the same thing every year, and after awhile, our cherished decorations can grow, well, not so cherished. If this is the case, don’t be hasty and throw everything out; consider the following tips to create a new look with what you already have. What is it about your current décor that you dislike? Is it the color scheme? The dated accents? The way things are placed or arranged? Maybe it’s all of the above, and that’s OK! Once you decide what needs to change, do a little trend research and see what stands out to you; whether it’s a color, pattern, wreath style, etc. Take that inspiration and apply it to your items.

Let’s first take a look at the smaller items such as accents and festive décor. The smaller items we use to fill bookshelves are generally just that: filler. Spice them up with a new look. Spray paint is your best friend; choose a metallic gold or silver or an accent color that fits the style direction you’ve chosen. A little ceramic gnome that was once a background item, spray painted gold is now eye-catching and stylish. Adding height and dimension into your holiday decorations can make all the difference; books are a great way to get the desired look. But we’re making our décor more interesting this year, so don’t just use a stack of books as they are. It’s time to harvest those book

covering skills from grade school and choose some wrapping paper that fits your new décor style to wrap them in. Don’t forget to pull out the ornaments that you don’t love anymore, and add some that accent and complement the new design!

“Spray paint is your best friend; choose a metallic gold or silver or an accent color that fits the style direction you’ve chosen. Wreaths are the first thing visitors see when they approach your front door, so make it memorable. Most wreaths have good bones, and we only need to replace some of the accents. If your wreath has faded or frayed floral or ribbon, those need to be the first to go. It’s unbelievable what a new bow and updated floral can

do for a simple wreath, and these items are usually very budget friendly. Arranging your home to fit large holiday décor, like a Christmas tree, can be a struggle. Some homes have one very clear spot, but what about the houses that don’t necessarily have “the perfect spot?” Decide if you want the tree to be seen from outside, or if you’d rather admire it from the sofa snuggled up with some hot cocoa. If your furniture allows a new living room layout to accommodate the tree, you may find that you prefer it when the holiday season is over! If you’re still unsure on what décor or layout to choose, hiring an interior designer can be a costefficient way to ensure you get what you want on the first try, and give you peace of mind to concentrate on more important things this holiday season!

Kelsey is an Interior Designer at Stonesthrow Furniture. She has a passion for historical home preservation and mixing multiple colors and textures in the spaces she designs for her clients.

Women’s LifeStyle Magazine • December 2018

Stop in for some Christmas Cheer!

1428 Plainfield Ave, NE Grand Rapids, MI 49505 616.459.4167 www.stonesthrowliving.com

April 12, 2019 Vera Bradley Sale VIP Experience/Ft. Wayne, IN Hamilton Wednesday - April 24, 2019 Chicago, IL

Ark Encounter & Creation Museum

May 28-31, 2019 Kentucky Girls of Atomic City Read the Book/Take the Trip May 2-5, 2019 Oak Ridge, TN Call our office for a detailed brochure or visit our website for more information on these exciting tours! 616.636.4628 | www.countrysidetours.net |PO Box 48, Sand Lake, MI 49343 Women’s LifeStyle Magazine • December 2018

THEA PARTY DRESS: Tour through the Ages BY ELISA SPYKER

A 1920s

1930s

1940s

party is a special opportunity to cast off our normal, humdrum clothes for something with style, elegance and plenty of personality. While it is easy to pick up an inexpensive dress online or at a number of clothing stores, vintage will always be a good choice for those who prefer something classy and timeless. Each decade had a distinct silhouette which can be easily adopted and made your own, whether it be stiff and structured or free-flowing and feminine. The idea of a dress worn specifically for a single social event is a relatively new concept. Before the 20th century, most women had only a few full outfits that were worn regularly and carefully maintained. Even wealthy women would only have two or three outfits suitable for special occasions. With the advent of ready to wear fashions sold at department stores, it became easier to buy dresses at accessible prices, and it became commonplace to buy a new one for each event in your calendar. The party dress became a way to show off your fashion sense while you socialized and was neither too casual nor too formal. A century ago, women's fashion was undergoing a huge shift. It had moved away from the rigid, starched and frilly ensembles of the 19th century to a more liberated, natural form. Inspired by classic shapes and Eastern embellishments, designers were using fabric to drape over the body instead of reshaping it. Long, flared tunics layered over simple, straight dresses were easy to wear and freed women from the restricted movement of heavy bustles and crinolines. This liberation of the female form continued enthusiastically into the 1920s, when undergarments became even less restrictive and allowed for more movement. The androgynous, straight cut dresses were elaborately covered in beads, fringe, and layers of flounces, particularly to accentuate the body while dancing. Skirts were commonly just below the knee and created scandal until it was widely adopted by all levels of society.

1950s

1960s

“The party dress became a way to show oﬀ your fashion sense while you socialized and was neither too casual nor too formal. While the fashions of the 1920s were straight and hid female curves, the 1930s returned to a more bodyconscious look achieved by the technique of bias cutting. Usually, a dress is cut from the straight grain of fabric, but bias cut dresses are cut diagonally to the straight grain, resulting in a body-skimming drape that perfectly accentuates the natural body form. Silk velvet and heavy crepe satin called “liquid satin” were perfect for this look. When you hear the term “Old Hollywood Glamour,” usually this is the era referred to. The 1940s shifted women's fashion yet again, as the second World War brought “austerity regulations” that rationed materials available for purchase to a finite amount. This led to the “Make Do and Mend” mantra which led people to revamp clothing they already had, using sheets or curtains to make new items or buying precious small amounts of fabric and doing the best they can with the few yards they were allotted. The silhouette slimmed down with leg hugging skirts and tailored tops with much accentuation to the shoulders. Although rations cut back on the amount of fabric used, there were no rations on beads, sequins or other embellishments, so this became a very popular way to glam up an otherwise ordinary dress. The end of the war greatly influenced the fashion of the 1950s. Conservative gender roles returned and the body was once again returned to a rigid, wasp waist shape, stiffly uplifted chests and voluminous skirts

1970s

1980s

fluffed out with crinolines. Creative combinations of textures and interesting methods of pleating are typical of these gowns. This ultra feminine, prim and proper look dominated the decade and has become one of the most popular eras for vintage clothing lovers. Like the 1920s, women of the 1960s once again cast off the stuffy, restrictive styles of the previous decade and adopted a more comfortable and practical approach to clothing. The A-line shift dress was simple and streamlined and could be heavily embellished or not at all. The subcultures of the 60s drew heavily from pop art, Eastern motifs and Bohemian ideology, culminating in the celebrated and widely recycled “hippie” look. The 1970s continued the natural, layered earthy look, with maxi dresses made of layers of floaty, printed chiffon in muted colors with empire waists and billowy sleeves. The free feeling nature of these dresses and caftans was usually accompanied by a total lack of undergarments. The trend of flowing fabrics continued through the disco craze but they tended to lose the natural, earthy feel and became more brightly colored and embellished with sparkly elements to catch the light. Bright colors, flashy embellishments and metallic fabrics continued into the 1980s, where the general consensus is “more is better.” The American economy was booming and many women had successful careers, with incomes rivaling their male counterparts. “Power dressing” brought much accentuation to the shoulders in particular, with severe, top-heavy silhouettes achieved with large, overstuffed shoulder pads. Fashion trends come and go and many of us can look at an old dress and think, “Who would ever wear that?” But as we see over and over throughout time, some styles really never go completely out. Every runway show borrows something from the past, remade and renewed for the modern woman. Taking a vintage look and making it your own is a fabulous way to create something uniquely timeless for your next party.

Women’s LifeStyle Magazine • December 2018

1429 Lake Dr SE, Grand Rapids, MI www.terragr.com (616) 301-0998

Monday: 16” Pepperoni- $8.50 Spaghetti- $6.45 Tuesday: 16” Pepperoni- $8.50 Lasagna- $9.99 Wednesday: $1.00 off Whole Subs

It’s time to plan for your holiday parties!

Thursday: Sampler Plate $8.99 Happy Hour All day Monday. Tues - Sat 3 - 5. $1.95 select drafts

$4.99 Lunch Menu, Monday - Friday 11AM - 3PM SEASONALLY INSPIRED. HANDCRAFTED. FEEDING BODY AND COMMUNITY.

HOURS: M-TH 11AM to 10PM, FRI. 11AM to 11PM, SAT. 12PM to 11PM, SUN. CLOSED • www.FREDSPIZZA.com

3619 Plainfield Ave, NE • Grand Rapids, MI • (616) 361-8994

GIFT BARN & WINERY W

e have more than 20 wines and ciders that are all Michigan-made for you to sample in the winery. No reservations are needed for our tasting room. Anytime the building is open, you can come in to taste our products. We are always creating and experimenting with new kinds of wine.

The price is $5 per person for 5 products of your choice that includes souvenir Wine Glass & Tasting Sampler. Please bring your glass next time you visit and receive this tasting with our compliments.

Robinette’s Apple Haus & Winery 3142 Four Mile Rd, NE Grand Rapids, MI 49525 616-361-7180 HOURS: Mon-Sat 9am-5:30pm Sun Noon-5:30pm

Women’s LifeStyle Magazine • December 2018

The Holiday Edition

Laquan Smith Spring 2019 RTW

BY SHARDAE JEFFERSON

House Of CB Julieta, $149 houseofcb.com

This holiday season, make a statement with every piece you put on. From color contrast to playing around with different textures, you’ll be the talk of every holiday party.

Aldo Cassedy Shoe, $90 Aldoshoes.com

House Of CB Helaina Dress, $148 houseofcb.com

HM Faux Fur Jacket, $49.99 hm.com Missguided Envelope Bag, $22 Missguidedus.com Vajze Deshire, Francina Necklace, $84 Vajze.com

Women’s LifeStyle Magazine • December 2018

Celebrate the 12 days of Christmas in style

940 Monroe Ave Ave NW, Suite G153 | 616.913.9123

monroenorthfitness.com | grandrapidschallengecenter@gmail.com

MEMBERSHIPS

CHALLENGE

December 12th - 24th Buy One Item and Get Two Free!

$39.95/month Unlimited Weights & Cardio

24-Hour Access, 7 days a week! *One-time $59.95 processing fee applies

Furs & Accessories Clean/Glaze and Deep Conditioning (We also clean cashmere, leather and UGG!) Repair • Restyle Appraisals • Consignment Furs

CHALLENGE PLUS $49.95/month Unlimited Weights, Cardio & Classes

24-Hour Access, 7 days a week! (Classes may include: zumba!, total body, yoga, kickboxing, etc.)

*One-time $59.95 processing fee applies

Simply Beautiful In Gaslight Village • 660 Croswell S.E. • East Grand Rapids (616) 459-8331 • www.bellafurs.com HOURS: Monday through Friday 9:30 to 5:30 • Saturday 10 to 4 Gloves • Scarves • Handbags • Jewelry • Accessories • Luxury Items

Fresh Know-how, Grown Daily From marketing strategy to financial awareness, GROW your business with us.

We have a personal trainer to help you meet your individual goals! All new members may have an FKA Assessment.

If you’re a resident of the building, you get 1/2 off your initial fee.

Ask about pricing for 1/2 HOUR & GROUP sessions & our weekly Challenge Groups.

Alejandro Cruz, I Ride Smart, LLC Microborrower

www.GROWbusiness.org | 616.458.3404 | Women’s LifeStyle Magazine • December 2018

READER’S ‘Tis the season…for a fast-paced thriller. Avoid your to-do list with one of these suspenseful reads, all set in this holiday season.

The Fire Child

Little Comfort

Acts of Vanishing

Sometimes I Lie

by S.K. Tremayne When Rachel marries dark, handsome David, everything seems to fall into place. Swept from single life in London to the beautiful Carnhallow House in Cornwall, she gains wealth, love, and an affectionate stepson, Jamie. But then she begins to see drastic changes in the behavior of her stepson and becomes suspicious of the circumstances surrounding the death of her husband’s first wife. Rachel starts to fear there might be truth in Jamie’s words: “You will be dead by Christmas.”

by Fredrik T. Olsson One winter evening just before Christmas, Stockholm is plunged into a sudden, citywide blackout. Radio, internet, phone service all cut out simultaneously, cloaking the city in darkness and silence. A young woman carries a message for her estranged father that could be the key to reversing the blackout and preventing further attacks, while her father, a cybersecurity expert, code expert and disgraced hero, tries to find her and save the country from disaster.

by Edwin Hill Harvard librarian Hester Thursby knows that even in the digital age, people still need help finding things. Using her research skills, Hester runs a side business tracking down the lost. Her new case is finding the handsome and charismatic Sam Blaine, whose latest con is set among the glittering holiday parties of Boston’s elite. But Sam has no desire to be found and when Hester discovers the brutal, and deadly, truth about him, her own safety is in jeopardy.

by Alice Feeney Amber wakes up in a hospital the day after Christmas. She can’t move. She can’t speak. She can’t open her eyes. She can hear everyone around her, but they have no idea. Amber doesn’t remember what happened, but she has a suspicion her husband had something to do with it. Alternating between her paralyzed present, the week before her accident, and a series of childhood diaries from twenty years ago, this brilliant psychological thriller asks: Is something really a lie if you believe it’s the truth?

The Child Finder

by Rene Denfeld Three years ago, Madison Culver disappeared when her family was choosing a Christmas tree in Oregon’s Skookum National Forest. She would be eight-yearsold now—if she has survived. Desperate to find their beloved daughter, certain someone took her, the Culvers turn to Naomi, a private investigator with an uncanny talent for locating the lost and missing. Known to the police and a select group of parents as “the Child Finder,” Naomi is their last hope.

Jocelyn Yost works as a librarian at Kent District Library Grandville, and she likes nothing better than ignoring her to-do list with a good book.

Women’s LifeStyle Magazine • December 2018

IT’S THE MOST WONDERFUL TIME OF THE YEAR! And we want to keep it that way! 80% of women suffer from some sort of hormonal imbalance.

IT’S TIME TO PUT YOUR FOOT DOWN REGARDING YOUR BLADDER ISSUES! Let Dr. Thompson help you find your freedom!

And this holiday season, we want you to ditch the fatigue, halt your excess weight gain, bypass your mood swings, and clear your brain fog by re-balancing your hormones. Feel your best at Optimal Wellness Medical!

Jannah H. Thompson, M.D.

Dr. Steve Lasater can give you the pick-me-up you need with bio-identical hormone replacement and ensure your holiday season is wonderful!

Dr. Steve Lasater

Call (616) 459-4171 to schedule your appointment

Call to schedule a consultation with Grand Rapids’ premiere concierge-style anti-aging specialist.

or visit www.urologic-consultants.com

Ask about some of our other services: • CoolSculpting for fat reduction, • PRP for hair loss, • Vampire FaceLift®, Vampire Breast Lift®, • P-Shot and O-shot for improved sexual function, • Age Management medicine, • Botox!

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Holland Hospital Telehealth Services keeps your loved ones safe, healthy and at home. An easy-to use home device combined with remote nurse monitoring and video conferencing gives patients and families added confidence and peace of mind.

Call (616) 394-3346 or visit hollandhospital.org/homehealth

Women’s LifeStyle Magazine • December 2018

Optimal Wellness Medical 5070 Cascade Rd. SE, Ste. #210 Grand Rapids, MI 49546

(616) 301-7390 optimalwellnessmedical.com

Results and patient experience may vary. In the U.S., the CoolSculpting procedure is FDA-cleared for the treatment of visible fat bulges in the submental area, thigh, abdomen, and flank. In Taiwan, the CoolSculpting procedure is cleared for the breakdown of fat in the flank (love handle) and abdomen. Outside of the U.S. and Taiwan, the CoolSculpting procedure for non-invasive fat reduction is available worldwide. CoolSculpting, the CoolSculpting logo, the Snowflake design, and Fear No Mirror are registered trademarks of ZELTIQ Aesthetics, Inc. © 2015. All rights reserved. IC1973-A

STAYC ATION L I V E I T U P LO C A L Vacation with us stress-free in the heart of downtown.

866 609 CITY C I T Y F L AT S H O T E L . C O M

Consignment, Resale & Thrift GR Southeast

Grandville

Hoopla Kids Upscale Resale + Parties 4060 29th Street SE Grand Rapids, MI 49512 (616) 288-7574

Regenerate- A Thrift Shop 4390 Chicago Dr SW Grandville, Michigan (616) 647-5342 Hours: Mon- Thurs 10:00-6, Fri 10-5 Sat 10-3

Kids upscale resale boutique including fun-filled classes and parties for your child. Accepting like-new children’s clothing. Second Dance 321 Division Ave. SE (616) 240-7938 Hours: T, Th 12-7, WF 11-6 Sat 10-5 Specializing in upscale formalwear, find bridal, bridesmaid, mother of, school dance dresses such as prom and homecoming, and formal accessories. seconddancegr.com Style Encore 2650 East Beltline Ave. SE (616) 957 2533 Hours: Mon-Sat 10-8, Sun 12-5

Journey

ONE STEP FURTHER

With AmaWaterways, you’ll climb higher, venture deeper and pedal further into grand capitals and medieval villages. Aboard the highest rated river cruise ships in Europe, you’ll always journey one step further.

At Style Encore you will be able to shop for amazing brands and designer wear for up to 70% off retail. Plus, they pay cash on the spot for your gently used women’s casual and business clothing, accessories and handbags.

PLANNING A TRIP? GIVE US A CALL. GRAND RAPIDS OFFICE 616-954-2977 • ZEELAND OFFICE 616-772-9660

Terms & Conditions: Savings are in USD for cruise only, are per stateroom, based on double occupancy for select 2019 sailings. Offers are not combinable with any other promotions/discounts, limited to availability, capacity controlled and subject to change or termination without notice. Other restrictions apply. CST#2065452-40

Red Door Consignment 6837 Lake Michigan Dr. (616) 895-2667 Hours: Tue-Fri 11-6, Sat 11-4 Enjoy a vast collection of new, repurposed, consigned, vintage and antique items including furniture, home decor, clothing and accessories. Every budget deserves great design! Find us on facebook, facebook.com/ thereddoorconsignmentallendalemi

Gild the Lily 450 East Division (616) 863-8491 Hours: Mon-Fri 10-7, Sat 10-4

GR Northeast

Memory Lane Consignment Boutique 4318 Plainfield Suite F (616) 780-0693 Hours: Tue-Fri 11-6, Sat 11-4 ON SELECT 2019 DEPARTURES

Allendale

Rockford

We accept all seasons any time. No appointment necessary. styleencoregrandrapids.com

Mission India Super Thrift 2146 Plainfield Ave. NE (616) 361-7411 Hours: Mon, Tues, Wed, Fri. 10-5, Thursday 10-7:30, Saturday 10-2 Indulge the inner thrifter in you and shop at our “hidden gem” of a store! We have been described as an upscale, boutique store with great pricing on furniture, clothing, and other household items. Special Sales! Special Mission! facebook.com/mist/2146

SAVE UP TO $1,500 PER STATEROOM

Come explore treasures old and new. Find your new favorite work dress, the home decor you didn’t know you were missing, and the vintage piece that completes your wardrobe. regeneratethrift.com

Two floors of fresh fashion for your home and body at “get it now” prices. Formal wear, plus, petite and designer departments. Consign or get cash without appointment Monday to Friday. shopgildthelily.com Resale Republic 41 Courtland Drive (616) 884-0535 Hours: Mon-Fri 10-8, Sat 10-6, Sun 10-5 Resale inspiration for the hip and trendy. Furniture reinvented. Fashion reinvented. shopresalerepublic.com

Ada

New location featuring entire lower level of furniture and home decor. Now selling and buying (by appointment) Chico’s items. We pay our consignors 50 % and don’t charge extra fees. Quality, contemporary fun! New items arriving daily! Find us on facebook. facebook.com/ memorylaneconsignmentboutique

Georgie’s Consignment Clothing 7504 Thornapple River Drive (616) 676-1869 Hours: TWF 10-6, Th 10-8, Sat 10-4 Accepting everything from Gap to Gucci and you get 50% instead of only 40%. No appointment necessary. georgiesconsignment.com

Women’s LifeStyle Magazine • December 2018

Destination: HOLLAND Your premier shopping, dining and events destination...just minutes from the lake!

DOWNTOWN

Holland @downtownholland

www.downtownholland.com

Holland Farmers Market

STAY AT

Downtown Holland/Shops, Farmers Market, Restaurants and Lake Michigan nearby!

cityﬂatshotel.com We have the shoes you WANT to wear!

Wednesdays and Saturdays 8:00 am - 3:00 pm May Through December www.hollandfarmersmarket.com

SHOPPING JAM Saturday, December 8th

8-9am 30% off everything 9-10am 25% off everything

43 East 8th St, suite 120 Holland, MI 49423 (616) 393-7900 studio.K@att.net

Holland 616.392.2821

THE BLACKBIRD 186 S. River at 8 @ (616)355-0117

Grand Haven 616.846.4420

Hours: Mon-Sat 10-6

FB Blackbird Holland

borrs.com

Stones of Michigan & more!

49 E. 8TH ST. HOLLAND, MI (616) 394-9103 GLOBE-VISION.COM

Women’s LifeStyle Magazine • December 2018

3 East 8th Street | (616) 396-3966 Visit our new location - silverfoxjewelryholland.com 43

See more photos at womenslifestyle.com/party-pics Linc Up Community Spirit Awards • October 11, 2018 • Wealthy Theatre

GROW SEEDS of Growth Luncheon • October 11, 2018 • Amway Grand Plaza

Ele’s Place 5th Annual Fall Reception • November 15, 2018 • New Vintage Place

Submit your event coverage request at womenslifestyle.com/photos 44

Women’s LifeStyle Magazine • December 2018

Holistic Massage, Skincare, Haircare

WORDS AND PHOTO SPECTRUM HEALTH

19th Annual Helen DeVos Chidrenʼs Hospital Radiothon Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital is one of the fastest growing children’s hospitals in the Midwest. Annually, over 200,000 children from all over Michigan and beyond, receive care in any of its 50+ specialty lines of service. From 2012 to 2018, it has been recognized by U.S. News & World Report as one of the best children’s hospitals in the country. Its neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) is ranked among the top ﬁve largest in the country. The children’s hospital is part of a larger network known as Spectrum Health Hospital Group. In its 19th year, the Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital Radiothon is a two-day call-in fundraiser. Its broadcast on the family favorite radio station STAR 105.7, country music radio giant B-93.7, and on the lakeshore country radio station “The Moose” 107MUS—each heard throughout West Michigan. Each station creates its own distinct broadcast and content. Funds are raised in a variety of ways including phone pledges made by listeners, corporate sponsorships, volunteer pledges, and in-kind donations. This year we hope to raise $350,000 towards the annual fund for Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital. Funds raised will support 20 different programs like the center for child protection, the Pediatric Oncology Resource Team (P.O.R.T.), the

Secchia CarePartners program, injury prevention, The Gerber Foundation Neonatal Center, family support, and many more services.

Beaubien Bodyworks 951 Wealthy Street SE Grand Rapids, MI 49506 (616) 258-8181 beaubienbodyworks.com

Listen In; Call or Text A simple way to support the event is to tune in and listen. Make a $10 donation by texting KIDS to 41010 or a $5 donation by texting CURE to 41010 or call in anytime during the broadcast to pledge your support at 1.877.953.KIDS or (616) 391-2999.

Bish and Bash Ornaments

Come on down during the broadcast and pick up a handcrafted ornament by Bish & Bash. All proceeds from the sale of these homemade ornaments support the wish list of Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital. For speciﬁc times when ornaments will be for sale contact Laurie Alighire at laurie.alighire@ spectrumhealth.org or (616) 391-9125.

What: Radiothon Where: Tune in to STAR 105.7, B-93.7 or 107MUS When: Dec.6 and 7, 6 a.m.—6 p.m.

Women’s LifeStyle Magazine • December 2018

43 East 8th St, suite 120 Holland, MI 49423 (616) 393-7900 Happy studio.K@att.net

Holidays! 45

DecemberEvents

Mondays

Fridays

Mug Club: Beer, Food and Merchandise discounts. GR Brewing Company. Grbrewingcompany.com.

Saturdays

Team Trivia at the Curragh. Curragh Irish Pub. 7 pm. Downtownholland.com

Tuesdays

Taco Tuesday. CitySen Lounge at City Flats Hotel. Downtownholland.com Thrift Store Trivia. Holland Brewing Company. Downtownholland.com Open Mic Night. The Park in Holland. Downtownholland.com Local Night: $2 off any beer up to $6. GR Brewing Company. Grbrewingcompany.com

Wednesdays

Live Music at Our Brewing. Holland Brewing Company. 8 pm. Downtownholland.com

Hops Bloody Mary Bar. Hops at 84 East. 11 am. Downtownholland.com Brunch/Bloody Mary Bar: 10 am-3 pm. Grbrewingcompany.com

Broadway Grand Rapids presents Jersey Boys. DeVos Performance Hall. Nov 30, 8 pm, Dec 1, 2 pm & 8 pm, Dec 2, 1 pm and 6:30 pm. Devosperformancehall.com

Nov 20-Jan 6

Brunch/Bloody Mary Bar: 10 am-3 pm. Grbrewingcompany.com

Christmas and Holiday Traditions Around the World. Exhibit includes 42 trees and cultural displays, nearly 400,000 lights in and outside, choirs, reindeer and more. Frederik Meijer Gardens. Meijergardens.org

Ongoing

Dec 1-2, 5-9, 12-16

Sundays

May 5-Dec 22

Fulton Street Market. Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays. 8 am-3 pm. Fultonstreetmarket.org

Geeks Who Drink Trivia. 8 pm. Grbrewingcompany.com

Nov 3 - March 22

Thursdays

Nov 6-Dec 23

Peachwave No-weigh Thursday. Fill your bowl for just $3.25 all day. Peachwave Frozen Yogurt & Gelato. 12 pm.Downtownholland.com

Nov 30-Dec 2

Grand Rapids Drive. Deltaplex.com Holiday Artists Market. The annual Lowell Arts Holiday Artists Market features artwork by over 50 area artists. Tues-Sat 10 am-6 pm and Sunday 12-5 pm. Lowellartsmi.org

The Little Mermaid. Grand Rapids Civic Theatre. Wednesday through Saturday at 7:30 pm, Sunday at 2 pm. Grct.org

Dec 1, 7, 8

Holiday Kerstmarkt. Experience a delightful outdoor European-style market with holiday items including food and artisan demonstrations. 8th Marketplace. Downtownholland.com

Dec 1, 8, 12, 15, 19

Holland Farmers Market. 8 pm. Downtownholland.com

Dec 6-9

Grand Rapids Symphony Presents Wolverine Worldwide Holiday Pops. Come home for the holidays and celebrate the season at DeVos Performance Hall. Dec 6, 7:30 pm, Dec 7, 8 pm, Dec 8, 3 pm & 8 pm, and Dec 9, 3 pm. Devosperformancehall.com

Dec 14-16 & 21-23

The Nutcracker. It isn’t the holidays without the magic of Grand Rapids ballets! DeVos Performance Hall. Dec 14, 7:30 pm, Dec 15, 2 pm & 7:30 pm, Dec 16, 2 pm, Dec 21, 7:30 pm, Dec 22, 2 pm & 7:30 pm and Dec 23, 2 pm. Devosperformancehall.com

Dec 14-16

Visits with Santa. Downtown Market. Friday, 12-3 pm and Saturday-Sunday, 12-5 pm. Downtownmarketgr.com

(CONTINUED ON PAGE 48)

TWO EXCITING WEEKENDS!

presents

THE

NUTCRACKER December 14-16 & 21-23 | DeVos Performance Hall | grballet.com/nutcracker | 616.454.4771 x10 46

Women’s LifeStyle Magazine • December 2018

St.Cecilia Music Center

Fall Arts

GR A N D VA LLEY STATE U N I V ER SIT Y PR ESENTS TH E 16TH A N N U A L

Celebration Enr ichin g the A r ts and Humanit ie s in We st Michi gan

Grand Valley’s Fall Arts Celebration features distinguished artists, writers, poets, musicians, and dancers of our time. Please join us this fall for inspiring entertainment that is the hallmark of our signature events.

ART

POETRY

Mars: Astronomy and Culture

An Evening of Poetry and Conversation with Ada Limón and Carl Phillips

EXHIBITION RECEPTION THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 13, 5–7 P.M. ART GALLERY THOMAS J. AND MARCIA J. HAAS CENTER FOR PERFORMING ARTS ALLENDALE CAMPUS

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 18, 7:30 P.M. L.V. EBERHARD CENTER, SECOND FLOOR ROBERT C. PEW GRAND RAPIDS CAMPUS

DANCE

EXHIBITION DATES: AUGUST 24–OCTOBER 31 This exhibition was curated by Pasadena Arts Council for the Williamson Gallery, Art Center College of Design, Pasadena, California. It is a project of the Pasadena Arts Council’s EMERGE Fiscal Sponsorship Program.

MUSIC

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 7:30 P.M. LOUIS ARMSTRONG THEATRE THOMAS J. AND MARCIA J. HAAS CENTER FOR PERFORMING ARTS ALLENDALE CAMPUS

An Italian Journey: Tesla Quartet Performs Tchaikovsky’s Souvenir de Florence

HOLIDAY CELEBRATION

MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 7:30 P.M. COOK-DEWITT CENTER ALLENDALE CAMPUS

Celebrating Holiday Splendor: Craig Jessop Conducts The Many Moods of Christmas

LECTURE

William Deresiewicz, Ph.D.: What is Art in the 21st Century? MONDAY, OCTOBER 1, 7:30 P.M. L.V. EBERHARD CENTER, SECOND FLOOR ROBERT C. PEW GRAND RAPIDS CAMPUS

For event details and to view a complete list of sponsors, visit gvsu.edu/fallarts or call (616) 331-2185.

Kariamu and Company: Traditions – A Celebration of African Dance

MONDAY, DECEMBER 3, 7:30 P.M. FOUNTAIN STREET CHURCH 24 FOUNTAIN STREET NE GRAND RAPIDS, MI

MEDIA SPONSOR:

GIVE THE GIFT OF MUSIC THIS HOLIDAY SEASON There’s something for everyone at SCMC! And flex passes for our 2019 Folk, Jazz and Chamber Music concerts make great gifts.

IT’S AN EXPERIENCE LIKE NO OTHER

CHAMBERJAZZFOLK SCMC-ONLINE.ORG

Just in Time for the Holidays . . . Great Stocking Stuffer! Pick up your FREE 2019 Grand Rapids Life Calendar.

616.459.2224

Can’t afford legal help? OPEN Legal Services of West Michigan is a non-profit law firm organized to provide justice for those who do not qualify for Legal Aid and for those who cannot afford private attorneys.

This beautiful calendar features photos taken by local photographers and captures the essence of what makes the Grand Rapids area special.

Our attorneys are dedicated, caring and compassionate, offering inhouse counsel as well as a referral system to other attorneys. Victoria J. Smith, Attorney

Calendars are available at both Heritage Life Story Funeral Home locations.

Services include:

Stop by and get yours today! 1833 Plainfield Ave. NE 2120 Lake Michigan Dr. NW

Women’s LifeStyle Magazine • December 2018

Family Law • Landlord/Tenant • Bankruptcy Civil Litigation • Criminal • Social Security Mediation Services • Wills & Estates OPEN Legal Services of West Michigan 625 Kenmoor Ave SE Suite 301 • Grand Rapids, MI 49546 (616) 633-1371 • (616) 365-5378 fax • open-legal-services.org 47

(CONTINUED FROM PAGE 46)

Dec 19 & 20

Old National Bank Cirque de Noel presented by Grand Rapids Symphony. DeVos Performance Hall. 7:30 pm. Devosperformancehall.com

Dec 21 & 22

Organ Concert-Holiday Classics with Lance Luce. GRAM. Dec 21, 7-9 pm and Dec 22, 2-4 pm. Devosperformancehall.com

Dec 29 & 30

Sesame Street Live! Make Your Magic at the DeVos Performance Hall. 10:30 am & 2:30 pm. Devosperformancehall.com

lighting into one event. Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum. 5 pm. Fordlibrarymuseum.gov Drop-in Tour: Who Shot Sports. Drop into GRAM and explore the Museum’s latest exhibition, Who Shot Sports, with a dedicated docent. GRAM. 1-2 pm. Artmuseumgr.org La Sinfonia Navidena. Join us for a FREE community performance at Wyoming Junior High School. Selections include: Noche de Paz, Hacia Belén va una burra, Ay del chiquirritín, Arre borriquito, Canta, ríe, bebe. Dan Heintzelman Fine Arts Center. 7:30 pm. Grsymphony.org

Dec 30 & Dec 31

Founders Two-Night NYE Celebration with the Accidentals & Friends.

30th Annual Holiday Artists Market Presented by Steelcase. UICA. 10 am-5 pm. UICA.org

Dec 1

Dec 2

Cody Jinks with the Steel Woods, Tennessee Jet. All ages welcome. 20 Monroe Live. 7 pm. 20monroelive.com 30th Annual Holiday Artists Market. Shop for beautifully crafted gifts from regional artists. Enjoy live music, food, beverages and more. Steelcase Town Hall. 10 am-5 pm. UICA.org Light Up Downtown. Kick off the holiday season in style with this new holiday tradition that combines the holiday open house and annual tree

Greg Gutfeld - The Gutfeld Monologues Live with Tom Shillue. All ages welcome. 20 Monroe Live. 6 pm. 20monroelive.com Adult Workshop: Experimental Monotypes. Following a guided tour of GRAM’s collection, create a variety of monotypes exploring both additive and subtractive painterly approaches. GRAM. 12:30-2:30 pm. Artmuseumgr.org

Classical Concert Series: ESME at GRAM. 2-3 pm. Artmuseumgr.org Grand Opening for The Hot Spot Gallery. We are officially opening up the other side of our studio with The Hot Spot Gallery! This is a Holiday shopping event that will feature some of our members work and other metalsmiths in the Grand Rapids area with their jewelry and sculptures! 11 am-5 pm. Thehotspotgr.com

Trans-Siberian Orchestra: Ghosts of Christmas Eve 2018. Van Andel Arena. 3 pm & 7:30 pm. Vanandelarena.com

Dec 4

Straight No Chaser returns to Devos Performance Hall with their One Shot Tour. 7:30 pm. Devosperformancehall.com

Dec 5

Melissa Etheridge - The Holiday Show. All ages welcome. 20 Monroe Live. 7 pm. 20monroelive.com

Do you know all the new tax laws?

Tax preparation laws are constantly changing. The regulations and corresponding paperwork are more complex than ever.

Tom Briggs

Tax Problems? Call the Expert.

(616) 691-8107

SOUND & LIGHT

Mon-Fri 9 to 6 • Sat 9 to 1 www.jkellyassociates.com

Weddings, Corporate Events & DJ Service

Book me now at

(616) 532-7059 tomthedj50@yahoo.com WEB: tombriggs.webs.com

EMAIL:

Call Judy at J. Kelly & Associates today for your personal or business tax needs. Judy is a professional. She is reliable and cares about your business. She has been my acountant and tax consultant for 21 years. She would be an asset to any business. – Tom Skipper, Cannonsburg Sand & Gravel

Another Round of KDaLe! Brewery Tours

KDaLe Book Club

Saturday, December 1, Noon, Elk Brewing, 400 Dodge NE, Comstock Park 49321

Combine your love of books and brews at the KDaLe Book Club. Enjoy a drink while we talk about what we’ve been reading. Expert book recommendations from KDL librarians included.

Tuesday, January 15, 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM, DeHop’s Brewing Company & Cafe, 363 Cummings Ave. NW, Walker 49534

Mondays, December 10 and January 14, 7:00 PM, Thornapple Brewing Company, 6262 28th Street SE, Grand Rapids 49546

Tuesday, January 22, 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM, Railtown Brewing Company, 3595 68th St. SE, Dutton 49316

Thursdays, December 20 and January 17, 7:00 PM, Osgood Brewing, 4051 Chicago Dr. SW, Grandville 49418

For more information visit kdl.org/kdale. 14467

Women’s LifeStyle Magazine • December 2018

about the works on view. UICA. 6-9 pm. Uica.org First Friday Studio Night: Perspective Drawing for Beginners Inspired by Emily Janera. Browse the works on view as part of Coming Home, then head to The Studio between 6-9 pm to learn how to create an architectural drawing inspired Emily Janera’s photography. UICA. 6-9 pm. Uica.org

Dec 8

Yule Ball Ft. Harry & The Potters, Desmond Jones - VIP Dinner Presented by 105.3 Hot FM. All ages welcome. 20 Monroe Live. 5:30 & 8:30 pm. 20monroelive.com Winter Wonderland at the Downtown Market. All ages welcome, free admission. 4-8 pm. Downtownmarketgr.com

Dec 7

Dec 6

Up on the Rooftops. Experience an exclusive tour of Downtown Holland rarely seen second story during this traditional holiday event! Downtown Holland. Downtownmarketgr.com

Christmas Cabaret. Frederick Meijer Gardens. Tickets $150. Meijergardens.org

Creativity Uncorked: Lino Cards. Greet everyone this holiday season with a unique handmade card. The beauty of linocut relief printing is you can create more than one! GRAM. 6:45-9 pm. Artmuseumgr.org

Eve 6 with Somme, Party Nails. All ages welcome. 20 Monroe Live. 7 pm. 20monroelive.com

GROW Sparkle Holiday Celebration. Shop, sip and savor at the annual event celebrating women and their entrepreneurial pursuits. 5-7:30 pm, Cascade Hills Country Club. Growbusiness.org

First Friday Docent-Led Tour. Every First Friday of the month the Heartside neighborhood transforms into an active, arts-focused destination. Extend your experience with UICA during First Fridays with a docent-led tour of UICA’s galleries to learn more

Old Dominion: Happy Endings World Tour. Delta Plex Arena. 7:30 pm. Deltaplex.com Shopping Jam. Still on the hunt for the perfect holiday gift? Then don’t miss the Shopping Jam early morning shopping event in Downtown Holland. 8 am. Downtownholland.com Drop-in Sketching Tour: Water is Sacred & Trees are Relatives. The second Saturday of each month, join a docent-guided sketching tour of GRAM’s exhibitions. GRAM. 12-1 pm. Artmuseumgr.org Artist Demo & Boutique Pop Up Shop. Four of our talented artists creating works before your eyes: Jean Allemeier Boot, Mandy Cano

Villalobos, Eric Wieringa, Karin Nelson. Six talented Boutique Artists will participate in a pop-up trunk show. Artists include: Jennifer Surine, Sue VanDame, Christine Bruno - Town Hall Studio, Lynne Tan, Bill Hillbrandt - Into the Wood, Dana Albrecht - Sacred Fiber Arts. 12-4 pm. Lafontsee.us

Dec 9

Sunday Classical Concert Series: Spektral Quartet Presents Schoenberg, the Architect. 2-3 pm. GRAM. Artmuseumgr.org For King & Country: Little Drummer Boy | The Christmas Tour. Van Andel Arena. 7 pm. Vanandelarena.com

Dec 11

Snacks with Santa. Downtown Market. All ages welcome, free admission. 3:30-6:30 pm. Downtownholland.com Drop-in Tour: Green Features. Experience the green features of the world’s first LEED Gold-certified art museum! A guided conversation takes you through an investigation of our stunning building to reveal both little and large that the museum is environmentally friendly. GRAM. 1-2 pm. Artmuseumgr.org Grand Rapids Member Mixer. United Bank welcomes you to their new downtown branch. 5:30-7:30 pm, United Bank of West Michigan. Localfirst.com (CONTINUED ON PAGE 51)

PLAY. IMAGINE. LEARN. The place for play in Grand Rapids. Building minds through play. Building tomorrow’s leaders today.

visit grcm.org Women’s LifeStyle Magazine • December 2018

The Most Wonderful Time of the Year

Uptown Holiday Shop Hop BY SARAH ANDERSON | PHOTOGRAPHY BY TWO EAGLES MARCUS

or one night a year, the entire Uptown district lights up and opens its arms to hundreds of individuals who come from near and far for what many deem as the “best night of the year.” Welcome to Uptown Shop Hop. What began as one store’s holiday open house has turned into a onenight community extravaganza where presents are purchased, acquaintances become friends and memories are made to last a lifetime. Each store in the Uptown District, which includes four neighborhoods ( East Fulton, East Hills, Eastown, and Wealthy Street), offers customers the chance to come together to celebrate local community and business. Some have specials and some have special treats. Some have live entertainment in-store while others enjoy the carolers walking the streets. No two businesses are the same, and you’ll never know what you’ll find behind each door during Shop Hop. Susan Walborn, owner of YT Galleria on Cherry Street was one of the first store owners to hop on board when Shop Hop was originally being conceived 21 years ago. Walborn recognizes that this night was about much more than holiday shopping. “The idea is one of nostalgia,” she described as she reminisced the times when Christmas shopping meant crowds of people going from door-to-door in their local shopping district with each store decorated with their finest holiday decor. “People want to talk to people. A lot of it has to do with relating that sense of community back to the neighborhoods.” Shop Hop has grown since its first event in the early 2000s. Now, the trolley that used to carry passengers from one shopping street to the next is a shuttle provided by The Rapid.

Streets and stores alike are packed and more than 150 businesses participate, keeping their doors open until 10 p.m. Warlborn added, “The other thing that is so wonderful about it — with society and the personal car and electronics we have become so isolated — when everyone parks their car and gets on a crowded bus, you break down those barriers and start to get to know people. That’s the great thing about Shop Hop, you have to literally rub shoulders with people. You are in the midst of it. And every single shop that you go into is owned by a person.” Walborn is used to seeing some familiar faces each year as many groups have made this event a holiday tradition. There’s always quite a few new faces, too, as people venture out to experience Shop Hop for the ﬁrst time.

What: Uptown Holiday Shop Hop Where: Uptown business districts East Fulton, East Hills, Eastown and Wealthy Street. Shop Hop HUB located at Fulton Street Farmers Market, 1147 East Fulton St. Map available at Uptowngr.com. When: Thursday, Dec.6, 4 p.m.-6 p.m. Women’s LifeStyle Magazine • December 2018

(CONTINUED FROM PAGE 49)

Dec 12

Discovery Club: A Trip Around the World. Participants will explore artwork featuring far away places with a special treasure hunt game and stamps in their GRAM passport. GRAM. 10:30-11:30 am. Artmuseumgr.org West Michigan Jazz Society Holiday Party. Watermark Country Club. Deadline to register is Dec. 6 at midnight. Cost is $45 for members, $50 for non members. 6 pm. Find more details at Wmichjazz.org

Dec 15

Christmas at the Cappon House. This holiday season join us in celebrating a Victorian Christmas at the Cappon House. Holland Museum.12-4 pm. Downtownholland.com Drop-in Tour: GRAM’s CollectionPortraits. Portraits are glimpses into a person’s life, and with the help of a docent guide your group will explore clues left behind to learn personal tales from near and far. GRAM. 1-2 pm. Artmuseumgr.org

Dec 16

Sunday Classical Concert Series: Jennifer Walvoord and Andrew Le. GRAM. 2-3 pm. Artmuseumgr.org Grand Rapids Symphony Youth Chorus Concert at Basilica of Saint Adalbert. Basilica of St. Adalbert. 4:30 and 7 pm. Grsymphony.org

Dec 18

Drop-in Tour: Who Shot Sports. Comprising over 200 images in color and black-and-white from the past 175 years, Who Shot Sports: A Photographic History, 1843 to the Present presents an astonishing diversity of work by more than 150 photographers. GRAM. 1-2 pm. Artmuseumgr.org Baby and Me Tour: Water is Sacred & Trees are Relatives. Moms, dads, caregivers, and grandparents are invited to join us for an interactive tour. GRAM. 11am - 12 pm. Artmuseumgr.org

’s still There r fo e m ti g! framin y a d li ho

Dec 20

Yoga at GRAM. 5:45-6:45 pm. Artmuseumgr.org Light at Night. Celebrate one of the longest nights of the year by attending Light the Night! This free event will feature activities, including art-making and a scavenger hunt with a prize and performances. GRAM. 5-9 pm. Artmuseumgr.org

LOVE YOUR BODY

Flashlight Tours. After the Museum closes at 9 pm, the lights will be turned off and special in-gallery Flashlight Tours will be offered! GRAM. 9-10 pm. Artmuseumgr.org

Dec 22

Old School Holiday Party featuring THE DAN BAND. Join us in getting your ugly sweaters out of the closet for a night of fun. Ages 18+ welcome with a valid ID. 20 Monroe Live. 8 pm. 20monroelive.com

Dec 29

Pop Evil - WGRD Presents a Night Made in Michigan with Wayland, Handsome Pete. Ages 18+. 20 Monroe Live. 6:30 pm. 20monroelive.com

Dec 31

New Year Early Eve- Celebrate New Year’s Eve with the Grand Rapids Public Children’s Museum. Includes kid-friendly snacks,sparkling juice bar, celebratory crafts, DJ, and dancing, a 7:30 pm balloon drop, and more. $10 members, $15 non-members. Grand Rapids Children’s Museum. 6-8 pm. Grcm.org WYCE Presents: New Years Eve at Wealthy Theatre. A full evening of celebration featuring Lady Ace Boogie, The Go Rounds, Seth Bernard and HEAVY COLOR. Advanced tickets $30, tickets at the door $35. Wealthy Theatre. 8 pm. Grcm.org

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New Years Eve Ballroom Bashes Around the World. One ticket, four distinct parties at two hotels connected via skywalk will take you around the world in one evening. Ticket prices vary. JW Marriott and Amway Grand Plaza. 8pm.ilovethejw.com

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Women’s LifeStyle Magazine • December 2018

SOONER OR LATER YOU GET SHOWN THE LIGHT IN THE STRANGEST OF PLACES IF YOU LOOK JUST STRAIGHT

670 Leonard N.W. Grand Rapids 616-458-0500

rand Rapids Opportunities for Women (GROW) focuses their specialties on women in West Michigan looking to start a business or advance in their current one. An entrepreneur’s role contains many requirements including the following: having a network, management skills, ﬁnancial skills, insurance information, etc. GROW assists with every step along the way to ensure that women have the support and conﬁdence to achieve their vision of success. In commemoration of the courage and drive of the fearless women entrepreneurs who are chasing their dreams, GROW invites you to join the annual Sparkle Celebration on Thursday, Dec.6, 2018, from 5:00-7:30 pm at Cascade Hills Country Club. The evening will feature an intimate retail experience as local vendors sell their wares and shoppers enjoy food, drink and an outstanding silent auction of the various upscale products offered at the vendor tables. Tickets are $60, come with two free drink tickets and can be purchased at growbusiness.org. As an outcome of the event, all proceeds are invested back into GROW’s mission: supporting every stage of business by connecting with mentors, coaches, counselors, offering management assistance and more.

GROW

BY MEGAN JEZAK

Sparkle Celebration

What:GROW Sparkle Ce lebration When: Dec .6, 5:00-7:30 pm Where: Cas cade Hills C ountry Club 3725 Casca , de Rd SE Cost:$60

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Women’s LifeStyle Magazine • December 2018

SOCIAL JUSTICE BEGINS WITH ME:

Children Learn Empathy, Diversity and Acceptance through Social Justice Book Club at the Grand Rapids Public Library BY KAYLA SOSA

t has long been said that children are the future, that each generation has to be better than the previous to carry on a good society. At the Grand Rapids Public Library, parents and their children are putting that into action with the Social Justice Book Club. Once a month, children and their parents gather to read children’s books that promote acceptance and diversity. Lyndsey Kelly was happy to bring her two young kids to the book club to not only get them reading, but also to meet new kids of all different backgrounds. And living in a political and sometimes polarized society, there are many topics adults talk about and kids may hear bits and pieces but not fully understand what’s being discussed. The book club provides a space for kids to learn about loving others for their differences, without bringing up “grown-up” topics like politics. “As parents we try our best to talk to them about what’s going on, but they don’t always get it,” Kelly said. “And at school you don’t know exactly how they’re putting things, either, so I think this is a perfect way to actually understand it.” At the book club, children ages 4-11 are divided into three different age groups to read the chosen book. Afterward, the facilitators lead discussion groups about the book. Past topics included gender and equity, immigration and refugees and celebrating diversity and difference. The program is produced through a partnership with the library and Jessica Anne Bratt, Youth Services Supervisor, and Paola Leon, Grand Valley State University Professor of Social Work.

Women’s LifeStyle Magazine • December 2018

Both Leon and Bratt are mothers with small children and have interracial families.

“It’s restored a lot of people’s faith in humanity,” Bratt smiled. “This doesn’t have to be a scary conversation.”

“Even though he is only in Kindergarten now, my son has come home with questions about our racial differences since he was about three and a half years old,” Leon said. “As parents, we felt we needed to provide a space where he could articulate things that were being said to him at preschool by his peers and that we needed to allow him to formulate his own thoughts and ideas about these experiences before placing on him our own take on what he was experiencing.”

Bratt said she wants parents to feel empowered to have these conversations with their children, because it’s simpler than many think.

Her son noticed imagery in books that showed families who were not diverse and asked if his family was considered a “real family” because “we don't match in skin color, hair color, eye color.” This prompted Leon to choose books with more diversity and promote that ideal from a young age.

This month’s book club is at 10:30 a.m. Dec. 8 at GRPL, second ﬂoor. The monthly topic will be disability and ableism.

“It is a gentle introduction to hard topics and, because children have a tendency to want to read the same book several times, it gives us an opportunity to revisit our conversations and watch his growth in how he develops his thoughts around an issue,” Leon said. “Many times we shut down children’s thoughts and ideas surrounding issues that are seen as taboo or controversial because we’re afraid that what is coming out of their mouths is inappropriate. However, it is developmentally appropriate for young children to react to what they’re seeing.” Modeled after an East Lansing club, the program is now a year in the works, and Bratt said she saw a high turnout and positive feedback from the community since the beginning.

“If something comes up, then they can ﬁgure out in their little ‘tools’ what’s the best way to handle that,” Bratt said. “And I feel like this helps them for when they do get to those difﬁcult conversations that I think will arise with this next generation; like consent, and police brutality, and sexual assault, race, even sex ed.”

What :S Begin ocial Justi ce s Book with Me: A Club for Kid s Wher e: 111 Li Main Libra brary Stree ry, t NE When : 10:30 Dec. 8, a.m. 53

Hoooowwwl-iday T

Gift Guide

his month, Mind Your Manners taps into the expertise of downtown dog boutique Fido & Stitch’s owner, Alli McDonough, to help create a holiday gift guide for all the dogs and dog lovers in your life. First, let’s get to know McDonough (and Fido & Stitch) a bit. McDonough has always been a pet person. “I’ll never forget our first dog, Bella (an English Bulldog). My brother and I thought we were getting a new flat screen TV as a surprise from our parents, and were so confused when we heard this crazy snorting creature coming through our back door when our parents came home. That was one of the best surprises ever!” She is also no stranger to rescue pups either. Her first dog as an independent adult was rescued from the AntiCruelty Society while living in Chicago. “Sparkle was a nervous, spunky dog, who didn’t really like guys,” McDonough shared. ”She has definitely come a long way since then, becoming way more confident, playful and liking almost everyone she meets.” Now married and living back in West Michigan with Sparkle and her newest rescue addition, Fiona, McDonough is making her mark on the Grand Rapids pet scene with her boutique on North Monroe.

BY BETH MCEWEN

where people could shop with their dog. Grand Rapids did not have anything like it yet downtown, and I felt it would be a great fit. I definitely live by the saying, ‘Love what you do, and you’ll never work a day in your life!’” In addition to foods, toys and accessories, Fido & Stitch also offers professional grooming services. Dog owner meet-ups are a regular occurrence, and McDonough makes it a point to partner with local trainers to create accessible training workshops aimed at helping owners with a variety of common dog challenges. “We are working towards opening additional locations in the Greater Grand Rapids area, and also hope to one day bring a small-scale boarding and daycare facility to downtown Grand Rapids, as our customers have identified that there is a definite need,” she commented. McDonough and her team at Fido & Stitch can be found at 820 Monroe Ave NW (or at fidoandstitch. com) to help with all of your pet gifting needs at any price point.

“Fido & Stitch was born from my love of dogs,” she expressed. “When I lived in Chicago, they had these amazing little pet boutiques in every neighborhood

Beth McEwen, owner of Mind Your Manners Dog Training, has been working with dogs and their families for almost 20 years. Learn more at mindyourmannersdogs.com.

Pictured: Huxley & Kent Buffalo Plaid Hat & Scarf

Busy Bodies and Treat Lovers

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The multi-chambered Barnacle features the patented Treat Meter® to randomly dispense treats while your dog plays. You can trim the Treat Meter prongs with scissors to increase the rate at which treats come out. Small - $10, Medium - $15, Large - $20

Human Dog Lovers Odor Eliminator Candles

The parafﬁn and soy blend jar candle is perfect for eliminating your Pet, Smoke, or Household Odors. Simply light the wick, and the special enzyme formulation will remove nuisance odors while leaving a refreshing fragrance behind. Each 13 oz candle burns approximately 70 hours! One Size - $10

Dog Speak Diner Mug

Start your day off right with a cup of coffee in one of our mugs. Several different sayings/varieties available. Size: 10 oz. One Size - $11

Fido & Stitch’s most popular chew at the “Bone Bar”, the No-Hide chews have the texture and look of a raw hide, but is made of all-natural ingredients that makes it easily digestible and much healthier for your pup! Available in four ﬂavors: Salmon, Beef, Chicken & (new) Venison! Small - $5.25, Medium - $10, Large - $15.50

Festive Fur-Babies Fluff & Tuff Holiday Candy Cane

This toy’s sophisticated yet playful design is appealing to both you and your dog(s), and the unique construction methods will signiﬁcantly prolong the life of the toy. Small- $10, Large- $15

Huxley & Kent Buffalo Plaid Hat & Scarf

Give your pet the gift of warmth AND style with this combo! This ensemble comes in multiple sizes to ﬁt your pup, and keeps their head and neck toasty warm on those long winter walks…all while looking very stylish! (Pictured above). Small Hat-$12, Medium Hat- $13, Large Hat- $14, Small Scarf - $8, Medium Scarf - $10, Large Scarf - $12

Women’s LifeStyle Magazine • December 2018

Always Something to be Thankful For: HQ Talks about the Power of Gratitude

ounded in 2014, HQ Grand Rapids (320 State St SE) has created safe and affirming spaces for over 1,100 young people in the community experiencing homelessness and unstable housing. The organization is more than a drop-in center: HQ is committed to being a change agent in disrupting and breaking the cycle of homelessness for community members ages 14-24. Breaking the cycle of homelessness means addressing the other root causes and systemic issues that result in youth living on the street or in unsafe locales: poverty, unemployment, generational abuse and lack of educational support. HQ believes that young people are the experts in their own lives and that holistic solutions begin where all great things do: with belonging and safety. At HQ, youth are valued for their skills, their personality and their scars. Daily, HQ provides a continuum of care that honors the intrinsic value in every human being. Using a 3-R model of Rest, Readiness and Resources, the nonprofit uses beautiful spatial and aesthetic design combined with intentional relationship building and cultural intelligence to create an environment of trust, connection and support. From this space, youth can pursue safe housing, education, employment and community support. HQ is clear about its mission. The organization serves youth experiencing homelessness; not “homeless youth,” and their clients are called “members.” In reflection of the holidays, I spoke with HQ Executive Director Shandra Steininger and Volunteer Coordinator/Member Specialist Kai Giles to learn what walking alongside HQ members has taught them about gratitude and the power of giving. Steininger and Giles know what research affirms: Gratitude helps us cope with crisis, and grateful people are more resilient to stress, whether minor everyday hassles or major personal upheavals. Here are three truths Shandra and Khiley shared about how gratitude has served them in their personal and professional lives.

Women’s LifeStyle Magazine • December 2018

BY SHANNON COHEN

1. Service is a manifestation of gratitude.

Kai Giles: It is one thing to delight and be thankful for things; however, I ﬁnd deeper purpose in giving and using my life to help others. At HQ, we don’t enter member’s lives as “saviors,” rather we walk alongside members as fellow human beings, advocates and cheerleaders. Each of us has something to give and something we need.’’

When you practice taking the time to see the blessings in your own life, there is a deep sense of gratitude you feel when given the opportunity to show up for someone else.”

— HQ Executive Director Shandra Steininger Shandra Steininger: I pause often to reflect on the selflessness and sacrifices of influencers in my life. I think of the cost others have paid to be a blessing in my life. When you practice taking the time to see the blessings in your own life, there is a deep sense of gratitude you feel when given the opportunity to show up for someone else. Being present and daily giving of myself in small but impactful ways is a form of gratitude for me.

2. Gratitude is a force and source of resilience in hard times

SS: Life brings hard things and hard times to all of us, but we get to choose. We can wallow in our pain, or we can redeﬁne and re-frame our battle scars to make the world a better place. Gratitude is found in ﬁnding the power to use the bad stuff we have gone through as fodder to produce good. Much of the resilience I have today emerged from the challenges I had to go through. HQ members teach me daily that even in hard places.

We still have choice and power. I am more than my present circumstances. We all are. KG: You are me, and I am you. How can I look down upon you when I struggle too? Members have taught me so much about the grit it takes to navigate the valleys of life. Often when volunteers start at HQ, many expect members to be sad and depressed due to the challenges of navigating housing instability and all that comes with it. There are these stereotypes you see of what a person experiencing homelessness looks like. At HQ, on any given day, you hear deep, hearty laughter — the whole big body laughter a person bellows when they feel safe. I didn’t expect members to be happy, but they are. Even as they work to overcome heavy issues, there is still joy.

3. Gratitude is maximized in focusing on what you have

SS: You don’t need a lot of money or time to make a difference. Instead of taking inventory of what you don’t have, focus on what you do have. We all do things every day that are very human and necessary to survival. When people ask about supporting HQ, I encourage them to build upon what they already do and have. When you go to buy gloves for the winter, grab an extra pair for an HQ member. When you cook dinner, make an extra casserole to share at a drop-in session of HQ. When you purchase toiletries, grab a few extra for a person in need. Every one of us has something to be thankful for and something meaningful to contribute! Learn more about supporting and connecting with HQ at HQgr.org.

Shannon is a self-described bicoastal Michigander entrepreneur, wife and mother with a family now planted in Grand Rapids. Shannon is an awardwinning strategist, motivational speaker and community mobilizer. View more about Shannon and her work in community at shannoncohen.com.

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