Matters of the Heart - February 2019

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Essential • Entertaining • Enlightening • WomensLifeStyleKazoo.com

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The People Who Make It Happen...

Publisher:

Darlene Mohr dcmohr@wlskazoo.com

Editor:

Heather Dombos hdombos@wlskazoo.com

February 2019 LIFE

Contributing Writers:

Erica Shier Ashley Carter-Youngblood Emily Betros Elizabeth Buckley Heather Dombos Kelly Duggan Mary Beth Lyons Heidi McCrary

6 Unique Valentine’s Day Gifts 18 Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority: Pink Goes Red! 19 Rethink Your Drink 20 Little Hats, Big Hearts 22 Valentine’s Day Expectations 23 Bedroom Bloopers 28 When the Cat’s Away 31 Create the Perfect Bedroom 35 Help Pets Ward off Winter Risks

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12 T aste From the Kitchen: Latitude 42 24 Romantic Dinner for Two

- Chocolate Souffle

- Almond Martini

- Crispy Smashed Potatoes

- Stuffed Flank Steak 30 Restaurant Review: Rustica

COMMUNITY NEWS & HAPPENINGS 36 Calendar

LEARN & DO

17 It’s Not Rocket Science: Financial Habits of Successful Women 33 Podcasts 34 Reader’s Lounge

LOOK WHO’S TALKING

8 Keisha Dickason 16 Lynn Chen-Zhang 21 Rosalind Davis

HEALTH & BEAUTY

5 The Color Red 10 Valentine’s Day Fashion & Beauty 26 Find Your Fit! 32 Dealing with Depression

FRONT COVER: Photography by K. Redmond Photography Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority

KALAMAZOO • PORTAGE • BATTLE CREEK ST. JOSEPH • SOUTH HAVEN

February 2019

3

FROMTHEPUBLISHER LOVE…LOVE…LOVE….

According to the Beatles “All you need is LOVE!” And I happen to agree. Of course, there is no arguing that there are other things we need to survive; a steady source of income, food, shelter and your health. But deep down, what we all want more than anything else is to know we are loved.

Welcome to our 2019 February Women’s LifeStyle Magazine which, as it is every February, is dedicated to LOVE and health! Friday Feb 8th is the annual Go Red for Women Luncheon at the Radisson (tickets required.) In honor of this special event (and February’s focus on heart health) we have included some healthy ideas in these pages that both moms and kids will find helpful.We also celebrate the month of love with great Valentine’s Day gift ideas and romantic foods to share with those you love. Other great articles you’ll find in this edition include “How to Wear Red” and a piece about a local sorority that goes “Pink.”

In the end, it doesn’t really matter HOW you celebrate Valentine’s Day, but rather with WHOM you celebrate.

Whether it’s with a spouse, boyfriend, girlfriend, kids or coworkers, just be sure to take a moment to recognize that “love is indeed what makes the world go round”. No matter where you find it, it makes living worthwhile.

We hope you’ll enjoy this 2nd edition featuring our “all glossy” look. We LOVE our readers and were overwhelmed with the excited positive response we received from the new look in January. Stay tuned, because we have lots more coming your way to make the months ahead exciting and inspiring.

And to those I love: my loving FAMILY, my wonderful FRIENDS, my Amazing STAFF and of course, my SIGNFICANT OTHER – I LOVE you more than words can express. You are the reason my life is so fulfilling!

Intro: I wrote “Forever And Always” for my wife. In November of 2017, I went to Hong Kong with two of my children. I sent her the poem as I was boarding the plane.

How long will I love you, and will it ever end?

My illumination betrayed, but I’ll endeavor again.

Drowned in a prayer, so pure your light.

But the words, I can’t find.

They don’t come out right.

So I offer this sonnet,

with lyric and phrase.

The weapons of a poet,

'Til the ends of the days,

From the beginning of time,

Until the fire inside me.

placing pigment on page.

when the last star burns out.

when the Angels did shout.

turns to ashes and coal.

And my blood, it runs dry, as my body grows cold.

When My tears turn to dust,

and my cries won’t be heard.

By bludgeoning of chance, as I speak my last word.

Until I see my last moon,

when the sun has no home.

And there’s nothing but feathers, where the angels once roamed.

When the rage of my passion, dwells within me no more.

LOVE,

Forever and Always,

Darlene

Then I’ll love you all over, far deeper than before.

As deep as the ocean,

with the force of the wind.

Forever and always,

and then forever again.

Thomas Young is a poet, songwriter and teller of stories. This poem is dedicated to his bride of 34 years. They live together on a small farm where he milks his cow everyday. Professionally he refinishes antique bathtubs to their former glory.

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February 2019

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The Color Red

If you study & consider the color ‘red’ you’ll find that it is a color of many things – love, passion, confidence, joy, energy, excitement, power, action, stimulation, motivation, courage, strength, life, pain, & even death. Red is such an interesting color, as it correlates strongly to opposite ends of both emotional and physical spectrums.

COLOR COMMUNICATES

As individuals we each perceive color in our own personal way. How we identify color may vary from person to person, dependent on life’s journey, areas of study, personal likes and dislikes, just to name a few. Although these personal perceptions and experiences may vary, one thing has been tested, and that is the psychological response that certain colors evoke.

Color surrounds us, and with an awareness of the use of color can create an advantage. For example, in considering the color Red, if you are feeling down or need a little energy ‘pick me up,’ add a splash of Red to your ensemble.

Whether it is in the form of a top, jacket, or a stain of lip color, you can be assured of the energy it will create.

Kelly Duggan is an Image Consultant specializing in executive and personal image development, etiquette & communication skills. She is a certified member of the Assoc. of Image Consultants Int'l. Contact Kelly at: www.kellyduggan.com.

Additional considerations on the impact of Red – it tends to grab attention, encourage conversation & appetite, & appeal to men.

When worn in garments, it can project a sense of Options abound when considering the use of power or trigger sensuality. It is a color of great Red in garments and wardrobe development. influence, therefore best selected & used carefully.

To best consider how to use the color in your own wardrobe, consider your personal style – how classic, edgy, feminine, or natural are “There is a shade of Red for every woman.” you? Next consider what you do and the types

---Audrey Hepburn of people you are in front of, and then how you want to be perceived by others. If you are the Audrey would be correct! There is a shade of keynote speaker at your next leadership event Red for you. First, know the difference … the a jacketed ensemble or dress in solid Red may Hue, is the color (Red). Next is the Temperature, which is Cool – Warm – Neutral in its undertone. be your answer. If you are looking to increase your command, yet keep communication open, And lastly, the Value, Light – Medium – Dark.

With all colors (hues) there are many shades. The a red blouse paired with a navy jacket/cardigan would be a great selection. answer for which color(s) is best for you lies in

RED AND WARDROBE DEVELOPMENT

WHAT’S MY SHADE OF RED?

your own natural features. Consider your natural skin tone, hair color, and eye color and pattern.

Not sure what is best? Consider a personal color assessment, which will give you direction in color selection for not only your garments, but also your make-up and hair color too.

COOL RED

Whether getting dressed for your day or making that next purchase, keep these considerations in mind when using the color RED in your wardrobe.

WARM RED

BRIGHT-CLEAR RED

MUTED-DEEP RED

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Unique Valentine' s Gifts Struggling with what to give your Valentine? Break out of the gift-giving rut and surprise your love with one of these unique Valentine's Day gifts.

ESCAPE DATE $$

CANDLE MAKING CLASS $$

Stretch your mental muscles, challenge your intellect, and test your wits with an exciting escape room date. Clock N’ Lock Escape Rooms (321 S. Kalamazoo Mall, Suite 200, Kalamazoo, MI) offer four exciting challenges to choose from. www.clocknlock.com

PURA VIDA BRACELETS $ Pura Vida bracelets provide sustainable jobs to artisans worldwide and raise awareness for charities with bracelets that give back to selected charities. puravidabracelets.com

Drop-in to the Kalamazoo Candle Company Marketplace (166 Kalamazoo Mall, Kalamazoo, MI 49007) with your valentine and create a signature scent. While you are waiting for your candle to set, enjoy dinner with your sweetie at one of the incredible restaurants on the mall. www.kalamazoocandle.com

COCKTAIL KITS $$$

Crafted taste offers a wide selection of cocktail kits, which include everything you need to make the perfect drink. www.craftedtaste.com

FATED TO BE: ADULT COSTUME PROM & CABERET $$

PHOTO ALBUM BUCKET LIST $

Purchase a photo album and fill the pages with activities and adventures that you would like to experience with your partner over the next year. www.etsy.com.

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February 2019

Join hostesses Lori Moore & Katherine HarteDeCoux for an amazing evening at the State Theatre (404 S. Burdick Street, Kalamazoo, MI 49007) Don your best costume and enjoy evening of dancing, live music, bodypainting, professional Cabaret, and prizes. This unique date night is the perfect gift. www.ticketoffices. com/CostumeProm/1618/2823025

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Enjoy original creations by local chefs and participate in first-class live and silent auctions, with the satisfaction of knowing that your support will ensure all girls in your community have the opportunity to be a Girl Scout.

Celebrating 15 years!

2019 Southwest Michigan Go Red For Women Luncheon Celebrate with mothers, sisters and friends as we light the way for future generations!

Purchase tickets today! girlscoutbakeoff.com

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TM Go Red trademark of AHA, Red Dress trademark of DHHS.

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February 2019

7

LOOK WHO’S TALKING

Keshia Dickason

KESHIA DICKASON’S passion for health and wellness, especially when it comes to the lives of women and girls, permeates every corner of her life. A woman of many talents and roles, Keshia uses every ounce of her influence to enrich the lives of those around her. Her work at Western Michigan University, with the Seita Scholars Program, offers her the opportunity to support and advocate for college students. Her second career as Regional Fund Development Specialist for the Girl Scouts Heart of Michigan allows her to assist girls on their path to become tomorrow’s leaders.

For most women, juggling two careers while raising three children would be more than enough to handle, but Keshia’s energy and commitment to excellence inspired her to take on a few more leadership roles here in Kalamazoo. She is a proud member of Alpha Kappa Alpha (Iota Sigma Omega Chapter) and serves on its Fundraising, Technology, and Pink Goes Red committees. She is also the Chair for the sorority’s Women’s Health and Wellness initiative.

Keshia is happily married to Aaron Dickason and is the proud mother of Omar (25), Arianna (20) and Aaron II (16). Her family is the bedrock of her life and daily motivates her to do her part in making this world a better place. In fact, when Arianna decided that she wanted to run a 5K in 2009, it opened another chapter in Keshia’s life that would soon have her writing a children’s book, becoming a coach for Girls on the Run and starting a scholarship fund. The process of helping Arianna to train for (and succeed in

WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE “GUILTY PLEASURE”?

I love to eat sweets late at night.

WHAT WOULD BE THE PERFECT DAY OFF?

Staying in my PJs and watching movies with my husband.

WHO INSPIRES YOU?

My best friend of 28 years, Tenesia Davis. She is the strongest woman I know & she gives my soul such comfort. She is my guardian angel on earth.

8

February 2019

running) her race inspired Keshia to look for ways to encourage other young people to get healthy and establish healthy habits early in life.

A huge proponent of reading, Keshia knows that stories can capture the imaginations of children and influence their ideas and values. She wrote her children’s book “Arianna’s First 5K” with the dream of inspiring children to be active and healthy. She uses the book as a platform for holding fitness workshops, motivational speaking, coaching Girls on The Run and promoting literacy. She is also a Board member for Kalamazoo Read and Write and a member of the Kids Moving and Thriving program. In addition, she established the Big Red Heart Scholarship Fund, a non-profit organization that sponsors an annual 5K Run and provide scholarships for high school students who desire to pursue an education in medicine.

Never fear that all that hard work and dedication means that Keshia doesn’t have time to enjoy life to the fullest. She freely admits that she works hard...but she also plays hard. She loves spending time with her family and cheering on her children in their endeavors. No matter how busy she is, Keshia’s family is her first priority. She notes, “My husband and three children are my greatest accomplishments and they mean the world to me. I am who I am because of them.”

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Valentine's Day Fashion & Beauty

Janae Thomas is a recent graduate of Western Michigan University with a degree in Fashion Merchandising.

She is passionate about writing, fashion, & the empowerment of women. Headshot by Robin Maxim.

Getting chocolates and flowers is part of what makes Valentine’s Day enjoyable, but getting dolled up is the best & most exciting part of the day. Explore ways to step out of your day-to-day style to prepare your look for Valentine’s Day.

DRESS

Find a dress in a vibrant red, burgundy, or pink color you love that flatters your figure. Look for dresses with long sleeves, so that you’ll stay warm while going out in the winter weather.

You can dress it up or down to fit your Valentine’s Day plans. If you want to be more casual, you can style your dress with boots and a pair of tights.

If you wish to dress up, you can style your dress with heels and a blazer.

EYES

NAILS

Whether you prefer doing your nails yourself at home, or going to the salon to get a manicure, painted nails are an addition to your Valentine’s Day look. Try warm colors like red, maroon, mauve, magenta, or powder pink!

Add Valentine’s Day colors to your eyes. Many shades of pinks and purples can create different looks for lots of different skin tones. Lightly layering gold or silver eyeshadow over solid colors creates a shimmered

look. Avoid a harsh appearance by blending everything together to have a soft look. For inspiration, look at Valentine’s Day makeup tutorials on YouTube for step-by-step videos on how you can recreate looks on yourself.

BOLD LIP

If you don’t want to spend a ton of time on your makeup, this is a look you should try. A bold lip is a makeup look in itself. You won’t need dramatic eyeshadow or intense blush. Apply a bold lipstick and mascara, and you’ll be out the door in less than 10 minutes. Bolder colors include red, burgundy, and plum.

HEELS

Since Valentine’s Day only happens once a year, use this day to wear heels you normally don’t get to wear. Whether you prefer a bright red color or a classic black color, wear them! Heels are the statement piece for any Valentine’s Day outfit. If you love getting dressed up, this is your day! Get dressed up for yourself, and enjoy it!

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February 2019

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February 2019

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TASTES FROM THE KITCHEN

Sweet & Spicy Salmon (serves 4) 16 oz (Dry Weight) Medium rice noodles

12 oz Ponzu (Store bought versions vary, will include our recipe)

4 oz Bell Peppers (Sliced)

8-16 oz Canola Oil

4 oz Broccoli

DRY RUB 4 Tbsp Madras Curry Powder 4 tsp White Sugar 4 tsp Kosher Salt 1 tsp Fresh Cracked Black Pepper

4- 7oz Salmon Filets

4 cloves Garlic One Green Onion (slivered) 1 oz Cilantro (Chopped) 1 oz Thai Basil (Optional) 12 oz Dashi or Fish Stock (Water can be substituted but dish will need additional seasoning)

(1) Preheat oven to 350F. Liberally season salmon with dry rub mixture on all sides.

(2) Heat 3 to 4 ounces of the oil in an oven-safe sauté pan on medium heat until it begins to shimmer. Carefully lay salmon face down in the hot oil, taking care not to let it fall fast because the oil will splatter and burn.

(3) When one side is sufficiently browned, flip fish and insert it (pan and all) into the oven to finish for about 6-8 min.

(4) In a separate pan, again heat 2 ounces of the oil on high until it shimmers. Add broccoli and peppers and cook for about 2-3 min., stirring often.

(5) Add minced garlic, cook for another 2 minutes & then add ponzu and dashi. Reduce by 25-35%.

(6) Boil a pot of water separately. Add a liberal amount of salt to the water if desired (1 tablespoon should do it). Once it boils, cook your noodles. This typically takes 4-7 min. or until sufficiently tender.

(7) Serve hot noodles into a bowl first, followed by the sautéed veggies and liquid, then finally the salmon garnished liberally with fresh herbs.

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February 2019

6101 W. Main St | Kalamazoo, MI — 7842 Portage Rd | Portage, MI HOURS: M-R 11a-10p | F & Sat 11a-11p | Sun 11a-9p

K

alamazoo residents suffer no shortage of great restaurants where they can spend their hard-earned money to enjoy a good meal.

Chef William (Russ) Barrett, Executive Chef with the Latitude 42 Restaurant Group, is determined to make every item on his menu worth the price paid. What he’s not willing to do is sacrifice quality and sustainability by buying from huge factory farms and conglomerates to achieve that end. Instead, the Latitude 42 Restaurant Group dedicates many of its resources to local farmers and producers, believing that spending more for these quality ingredients pays off in the finished product. This, combined with the fact that the food is 100% handmade and served by a cheerful, knowledgeable staff, makes Latitude 42 a must for anyone’s restaurant bucket list.

that are readily available in the tropical regions. Sour kaffir limes, fragrant Thai basil, lemongrass, ginger, mellow coconut milk, sugar made from coconut palms and spicy/fruity peppers. Dishes from this area of the world focus on bringing all the flavors from all over the spectrum and smacking you in the face with them...in a good way. Imagine something so spicy that it hurts but you keep eating it because it’s so good you can’t help yourself.”

Latitude 42 primarily features cuisine inspired by the American Southwest, but you’ll also find Asian and Italian influences sprinkled throughout the eclectic menu.

The variety of dishes means that even the pickiest of eaters will find something to love. The ambiance is warm and inviting, encouraging guests to relax with a local craft brew or specialty cocktail and enjoy each other’s company.

Chef Barrett earned his Bachelor of the Arts from Western Michigan University and has been working in the industry for 15 years.

His passion for food means that making delicious dishes with fresh, flavorful ingredients is an ongoing source of joy. He loves creating an unending variety of dishes Chef Barrett has generously shared one by combining the essential variables of heat, of Latitude 42’s original recipes for our sweet, salt, fat and acid in new and exciting readers to enjoy. ways. He never gets bored and is thrilled to Erica Shier is a married mother be able to do it every day of his life.

His current culinary interest has him exploring the world of Southeast Asian cuisine, Thai food in particular. He notes, “Their cuisine is founded on ingredients

of four who loves reading, scrapbooking & thrift stores.

When she’s not driving her small pack of children around, she spends her time volunteering, writing & trying to keep on top of the laundry.

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February 2019

13

ARE YOU CHANGING JOBS OR RETIRING?

The Faces in

Finance

Women’s LifeStyle is pleased to present Faces In Finance 2019. We are excited to introduce some of the area financial gurus that make West Michigan’s financial community so outstanding. Be sure to take a moment and read through the following pages to learn about their areas of expertise.

Edward Jones

Laura Bean, Senior Registered Sales Associate Heather Kakabeeke, CFP® Associate Vice President, Investments J. David Weissert, WMS Senior Vice President, Investments Don Jacks, Financial Advisor Theresa Fisher, Senior Practice Marketing Associate

We have experience working with the following companies retirement plans: AT&T, Western Michigan University, Consumers Energy, Pfizer, Styker & Zoetis

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February 2019

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The Faces in Finance Are you invested properly?

Get a second opinion.

Call today for a Face to Face.

Brigitte Romanelli Financial Advisor

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Ginger M Titus Financial Advisor

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KALAMAZOO • PORTAGE • BATTLE CREEK ST. JOSEPH • SOUTH HAVEN

February 2019

15

LOOK WHO’S TALKING

Lynn Zhang, ZHANG FINANCIAL CONTRIBUTED BY JULIE BARBER

FAVORITE “GUILTY PLEASURE”:

WORDS OF WISDOM:

HIDDEN TALENTS:

CATS OR DOGS?:

People tell you to work on your weaknesses. I say, at some point, you need to PERFECT DAY: do things that do not work Coming into work, seeing on weakness. You need to several clients who are all find your strengths and do happy in their lives. things that maximize them.

Shoes! I like the one with the red heels. Louboutin.

I love to dance. I participated in the WMU Dancing with the Stars in 2017 and won People’s Choice with a tango. My husband, Charles and I have enjoyed ballroom dancing together.

“Though she be but little, she is fierce!” ―W illiam Shakespeare, A Midsummer Night’s Dream

T

hese words could not be more accurate when applied to Lynn Chen-Zhang, the Chief Operating Officer and Chief Compliance Officer at Zhang Financial. With a photographic memory, a natural talent for seeing relationships in complex numbers, a love of people and a charitable heart financial planning was the perfect career choice for her.

Born in Shanghai, China, Lynn came to the United States in pursuit of education.

Having attained several degrees and titles, she partnered with her husband Charles Zhang at Zhang Financial. Although born and raised in China, Lynn has been in Kalamazoo for most of her adult life and is proud to call Kalamazoo her hometown. She and Charles raised two sons here, who are now grown and following their own paths, leaving her

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February 2019

an empty nester for the last six years along with Charles and their Shih Tzu, Sparky, who comes to work with them each day.

Recognizing that finance can be a very stressful topic, Lynn has put every effort into making her clients feel comfortable and relaxed. She explained that when you truly listen to someone without bias, you can become more understanding of them.

Lynn is most satisfied when talking to clients about their lives, their special trips, plans, and happy stories. Although she could retire comfortably, she continues to come to work each day because she loves her interactions with her clients. She jokes, “I will be 90 and still calculating numbers and talking to clients!” All of her hard work and attention to detail is paying off, as she has been selected as one of the country’s Top 100 Women Financial Advisors by Financial Times, as well as one of the Nation’s top 100 Women Financial Advisors and the #1 Female Financial Advisor in Michigan by Barron’s.

These are just a few of the accolades and prestigious titles she holds.

Although running a successful, multi-office business, she still has made time for things

I like dogs, and also cats that act like dogs.

Cats tend to look at you like they are better than you, but some cats love everyone and behave more like dogs.

that are most important to her. Philanthropy is a very high priority, and she demonstrates this by generous contributions to numerous charitable organizations and causes, as well as sitting on the boards of several organizations, including the Western Michigan University Board of Trustees and the WMU Foundation Board of Directors, of which she is the President.

Aside from education, Lynn is very passionate about animal welfare. She says that people are ultimately responsible for their own situation. “You can blame society or anything else, but ultimately somewhere down the road you made a wrong decision, and coupled with other factors led you to where you are today.” Animals cannot make their own choices. A human made a choice, leaving animals at a real disadvantage. She has donated generously to local animal charities and continues to support animal welfare by presenting the annual Reverse Raffle, a benefit for the spay and neuter program of the Kalamazoo Humane Society.

Even Sparky, her beloved Shih Tzu takes part in the event and has been awarded the Kalamazoo Humane Society’s Lead By Example award for 2018.

WomensLifeStyleKazoo.com

It ' s Not Rocket

Science:

Financial Habits of Successful Women

BY SANDY K DERBY, ChFC, CASL, LUTCF | CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ | VP Old National Investments

W

hether you’re successful in your career, or in your personal life, there are certain financial habits successful women maintain which help them keep their finances under control.

THEY TRACK THEIR INCOME AND KNOW EXACTLY WHERE ALL OF IT COMES FROM. How much did you earn last week, month, year? Do you earn dividends from stock shares or interest from savings accounts?

What about all the little things that you sell online?

A successful woman knows exactly how much money she has earned and where it has come from, not just what income she earns from her job.

THEY HAVE A BUDGET FOR EACH PAYDAY AND THEY STICK TO IT. Budgets that are realistic and account for every known expense are far easier to stick to and allow the most financial control. A successful woman has her core budget down pat and adds the extra’s she needs when necessary. She knows how important it is to know exactly what’s happening with her finances so she isn’t flying blind.

THEY KNOW WHEN THEIR EXPENSES ARE DUE AND DO NOT PAY LATE FEES. A successful woman never pays late fees, because she is organized and knows how much is due and when. She not only knows what is due this week, but also what is due for the next six months, so she is setting aside funds for future payments, as well as current one. She also knows that automating her bills is the most efficient way to do this.

THEY NEVER LIVE BEYOND THEIR MEANS. A successful woman never “lives” on credit – she doesn’t purchase above her means and certainly does not live outside her means. She is not interested in an appearance of wealth.

She is motivated by actual wealth, and knows that means so much more than flaunting an expensive purse or using credit to “keep up with the Jones”. . Anything that she truly desires, she saves for.

THEY PAY OFF THEIR MOST EXPENSIVE DEBTS FIRST. A successful woman knows how much her debts are costing her in interest, and pays the most expensive ones off first. She also knows the difference between debt with the most owed, and debt that is costing the most

*Securities offered through LPL Financial, Member FINRA/SIPC. Insurance products offered through LPL Financial or its licensed affiliates. Old National Bank and Old National Investments are not registered broker/dealers and are not affiliated with LPL Financial. Old National Bank, Old National Investments, and LPL Financial are separate entities.

Why Old National Investments?

Personal. Professional. Principled. Build the future you envision with a trusted advisor who listens to your goals and helps you create a suitable plan for your life. Sandy has 29 years of experience as a financial advisor and specializes in retirement and income planning.

Talk with Sandy Derby about your financial plan at 269-459-0474.

money, and eliminates that one first. She has a plan and she works towards making her financial freedom possible.

THEY KNOW THAT JUST BECAUSE YOU CAN AFFORD IT, IT DOESN’T MEAN YOU SHOULD PURCHASE IT. Just because you CAN afford to buy the latest Coach handbag, latest smartphone, or other lavish items… doesn’t necessarily mean that you should purchase it. Instead, she uses these bigger purchases as motivation and reward. Instead of buying whatever she wants, whenever she wants, she uses them as rewards for when she achieves her goals.

SUCCESS WOMEN SAVE MONEY TOWARD A RETIREMENT FUND. These are separate of her cash savings. You should be contributing to your retirement fund from an early age, as in during your 20’s – not waiting until your 50’s to start contributing. Capture your employer matching dollars, maximize as much as you can, and make it automatic, so you won’t miss the money in your net paycheck.

Successful women make a goal of putting away 15% of earned income. Women who don’t have retirement plans still put away funds in an IRA or Roth.

-Not FDIC Insured -Not Bank Guaranteed -May Lose Value -Not insured by any Federal Government Agency -Not a Bank Deposit

Sandy Derby, CFP®, ChFCTM LPL Financial Advisor, VP Southwest Michigan Region 5003 Century Ave Kalamazoo, MI 49006 269-459-0474 oldnational.investments

Securities and Investment Advisory Services offered through LPL Financial, a registered investment advisor. Member FINRA/ SIPC. Insurance products offered through LPL Financial or its licensed affiliates. Old National Bancorp and Old National Investments; not registered broker/dealers; not affiliated with LPL Financial.

KALAMAZOO • PORTAGE • BATTLE CREEK ST. JOSEPH • SOUTH HAVEN

February 2019

17

Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority

Pink oes G Red

Iota Sigma Omega + Delta Chi Chapters

Ventra Boykin, Dana Boyd, Shardae Steele, Vanessa Coakley, Keshia Dickason, Maya Davidson

COMMUNITY IS AT THE VERY HEART OF GREEK LIFE. AT ITS BEST, A SORORITY will be a place of belonging where sister form lifelong bonds. Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated is was formed on January 15, 1908 on the campus of Howard University and holds the distinction of being the first black Greek lettered sorority. With over a thousand undergraduate and graduate chapters all over the country, Alpha Kappa Alpha is “dedicated to implementing programs of service that enhance the social, economic and educational well-being of the local, national and international communities”. Members achieve this goal through a variety of innovative programs that aim to serve the communities in effective, sustainable ways.

Southwest Michigan is home to two Alpha Kappa Alpha chapters. The undergraduate chapter, Delta Chi, finds it home on Western Michigan University’s campus while the graduate chapter, Iota Sigma Omega, is proud to call Kalamazoo home. These two chapters work hard to implement AKA’s programs & initiatives in our community, serving the people of Southwest Michigan with passion & dedication.

Because AKA’s program theme for 2018 through 2022 is Exemplifying Excellence Through Sustainable Service, the contribution and work of local chapters is imperative to bring about their desired goals. Areas of focus include breast cancer awareness and prevention, heart health, nutrition and wellness and care for caregivers. In each of these areas, sisters from Delta Chi and Iota Sigma Omega partner with

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February 2019

local organizations to address the needs of the community, especially those concerning women.

In order to increase survival rates amongst women diagnosed with breast cancer, Delta Chi and Iota Sigma Omega sisters partner with local clinics and hospitals in an attempt to encourage African-American women to receive regular mammograms. These women also work hard to emphasize healthy lifestyles at every stage of

Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority

PINK GOES

RED

For Heart Health Iota Sigma Omega + Delta Chi Chapters

GET HEALTH ANSWERS GET NUTRITION INFO GET MOVING...

FOR YOUR HEART’S SAKE

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 1 6PM-8:30PM

GIRL SCOUTS CENTER 601 W. MAPLE ST

life. Structured nutrition initiatives are a primary focus, with local nutritionists and dietician working with the chapters to design healthy eating plans that will help Kalamazoo residents to live longer, healthier lives. In addition, AKA recognizes the need for caregivers to take care of their health (both physical and emotional) to reduce the stress and negative health consequences that can arise from caregiving.

Heart health remains a focus for AKA and the sorority is committed to encouraging women to maintain healthy hearts through walking and other fitness activities. Many chapters achieve this by forming walking clubs and inviting their communities to join in.

AKA also partners with the American Heart Association for a Pink Goes Red event on the first Friday of February in an effort to educate African-American women about how to prevent strokes and increase heart health.

Iota Sigma Omega’s annual Pink Goes Red event will be held on Friday, February 1st at the Girls Scouts building located at 601 W. Maple St, in Kalamazoo. This free event is open to the public and will provide a wealth of information regarding heart health, overall nutrition and the importance of an active lifestyle. Activities for Pink Goes Red have included healthy food demonstrations, the testimonies of stroke survivors, presentations from local doctors as well as dance and exercise sessions to get the heart moving. Additionally, ISO hosts a free walking club that is open to the public and meets every Monday from 5:30-6:30pm at Kalamazoo Central High School.

WomensLifeStyleKazoo.com

Rethinking Your Drink Today

How many times will you turn to sugary soda as your beverage this week? Do you treat yourself to one while at a drive thru or when eating out? Do you pour a glass when you watch television at night? Do your kids have a can of soda after school?

If so, you are in the same habits as many Americans, but recent warnings from the Go Red For Women Initiative from the American Heart Association may have you rethinking your drink.

The American Heart Association (AHA) recommends that the average man should have no more than 9 teaspoons of added sugar a day while women and children should consume no more than 6 teaspoons. Unfortunately, Americans are consuming an average of 10 teaspoons every day.

It is easy to underestimate how much sugar is in the most popular drinks. A 20-ounce bottle of pop has the same amount of sugar as six donuts. It is hard to imagine eating six donuts in one sitting but finishing 20 ounces of pop feels like the norm to many people.

what beverages. The AHA found that too many sugary drinks have a number of repercussions on a person’s health including an increased risk of hypertension, heart disease, Type 2 diabetes, and tooth decay.

There are plenty of healthier drink choices a person can make. Water and low-fat white milk are the healthiest replacements for sugary drinks. Additionally, infused water is an excellent way to add flavor without too much sugar.

Getting kids to make healthier choices and avoiding juice and chocolate milk can be a challenge at first. A recent survey of parents in Michigan found that children drink double the amount of sports drinks, chocolate milk and fruit juice as their parents. The survey also found that 5 percent of children are not drinking water at all during the day.

Kids over the age of two should have no more than one 8-ounce sugary drink a week. Nearly two-thirds are consuming at least one soda or other sugary drink every single day, according to the AHA.

And it’s not just sugary soda that is a concern -- energy and sports drinks are notorious for deceiving people into believing they are a healthy beverage choice.

Additionally, a serving size of a beverage is not always an entire bottle. Everyone should read the label to make sure they are not about to double, or even triple, their sugar consumption.

The first step to get kids to make healthier choices is for the parents to start making healthier choices for themselves as well. If a child sees their parents drinking pop or sweet tea all day, they will likely want to do the same. Next, parents should also have the healthier choices readily available to their kids. The goal is make sure that no matter where they go, the healthy choice is an easy choice.

In Michigan, the AHA and Delta Dental Foundation have launched an educational campaign to teach Michiganders the health risks associated with consuming sugary drinks. The campaign’s goal is to encourage everyone to make healthier choices when it comes to

Kicking the sugary drink habit will help everyone maintain a healthy weight and decrease their odds of developing chronic illness. Visit RethinkYourDrinkMI.org or the American Heart Association and Delta Dental Foundation’s websites for more information.

KALAMAZOO • PORTAGE • BATTLE CREEK ST. JOSEPH • SOUTH HAVEN

February 2019

19

Little Hats, Big Hearts

N

ewborns across Michigan are receiving red hats, stitched with love and infused with the compassion of dedicated volunteers pointing their knitting needles to a vital cause.

Five years ago, the American Heart Association (AHA) launched “Little Hats, Big Hearts,” a campaign in which thousands of handknit red hats are delivered to newborns in participating hospitals across the state during February to raise awareness about babies born with congenital heart defects and healthy living for all children.

Local high school students Cherwasha Hill and Celina Klimkiewicz learned about Little Hats, Big Hearts while researching nonprofit efforts geared towards newborns and preemies for a school project at the Van Buren Technology Center.

Hill and Klimkiewicz plan to pursue early childhood education once they graduate from high school.

Between balancing their regular high school courses and the time at the tech center, Hill and Klimkiewicz also took the time to teach themselves how to knit for this project. They also used Facebook to ask people in their inner circle to help knit and donate hats so they could make a bigger impact.

“Between what we made and the donations we received, we were able to donate 302 hats,” said Hill. About 4,000 hats will be delivered to Michigan hospitals this year.

Each year, at least 40,000 children in the United States are born with a Congenital Heart Defect (CHD). They vary widely and the exact causes are mostly unknown. CHDs are the most common cause of infant death resulting from birth defects. Today, thanks to medical research, most babies born with heart defects survive to adulthood. Some CHDs are diagnosed before or immediately following birth; others can go undetected for months or even years.

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February 2019

“We are reaching out to all families, for those who are born with healthy hearts & those who are born with a congenital heart defect.

- Cindy Bouma, Communications Director, AHA Midwest Affiliate

“Families who have a child with a heart defect have a long road ahead of them, and we want to connect with them.”

For many new parents who may have a child with a congenital heart challenge, the endearing hats represent hope and are a palpable sign that they need not walk the path that lies before them alone.

“We really appreciate the donors who are taking the time to knit and crochet, so we can distribute the hats,” Bouma expressed. “It’s a great way to reach parents of newborns during a key learning opportunity.”

The AHA will be accepting hats for next year’s Little Hats, Big Hearts campaign from late fall 2019 to Feb. 1, 2020. They kindly request that the yarn be red, cotton or acrylic, medium to heavy weight and machine washable and dryable.

For knitting patterns and a link for more information on participating, please visit www.heart.org/en/get-involved/little-hats-big-hearts.

WomensLifeStyleKazoo.com

LOOK WHO’S TALKING

R

osalind Davis reached a crossroads in her life at age 57. Her weight was up, and she was on blood pressure medication.

“I used food to feed my emotions at the time,” said Davis. “My excuses were managing my life instead of me managing my excuses.” She realized that not making a decision about her health was, in fact, making a decision about her health.

Grief from the passing of some loved ones overwhelmed her. She also prioritized taking care of other family members over her own health. Davis needed to care for herself in a better way in order to care for others in her life.

Plus, she wanted to remain healthy so that she could be an active part of her grandchildren’s lives. Her motivation had to come from within.

Davis has tried several programs in the past, losing 80lbs, but wasn’t able to sustain the loss. Then five years ago she had gastric sleeve surgery at Ascension Borgess Hospital.

Through a combination of diet and working out three days a week, she lost a total of 135lbs.

She has a bit more to go toward her goal, and she is confident that she will achieve it.

For winter workouts she switches to swimming and walking at the Ascension Borgess Health Club. She is also involved in a walking group through her work.

“I’m still in the journey,” said Davis. “Don’t let the excuses stop you. Every time you have an excuse, you manage it. Don’t let the excuses manage you.”

Her persistence is one of the key messages from the American Heart Association’s Go Red for Women initiative, now entering its fifteenth year.

Launched in 2004 as an awareness campaign of a woman’s risk of heart disease, Go Red for Women quickly grew into an international movement and has become a platform for real change. Today, more women than ever recognize that heart disease is the leading cause of death among women. In recent surveys there was a nearly ninety percent increase in awareness among women recognizing heart

KALAMAZOO • PORTAGE • BATTLE CREEK ST. JOSEPH • SOUTH HAVEN

Rosalind Davis

disease is their leading cause of death. Ninety-five percent of women reported making at least one healthy lifestyle change in the last year.

While nearly 80 percent of cardiac events can be prevented, cardiovascular diseases continue to be a woman’s greatest health threat, claiming the lives of 1 in 3 women. That’s a third of mothers, sisters and friends.

It’s time to be demanding when it comes to women’s heart health and ask others to do the same.

THE ASSOCIATION’S CALL TO ACTION CONSISTS OF FOUR KEY AREAS

now Your Numbers (total K cholesterol, HDL (good) cholesterol, blood pressure, blood sugar and body mass index) and talk to your doctor to lower your heart health risk. ake physical activity a M priority by trying to get thirty minutes of physical activity every day.

Make healthy eating a priority and add color to your plate with new fruits and vegetables.

If you have high blood pressure, commit to monitoring it regularly

ou should never wait more than five Y minutes to dial 9-1-1 if you experience any of the signs above. Remember, you could be having a stroke even if you’re not experiencing.

The next phase of Go Red will focus on inspiring and empowering women to better achieve health and well-being -these are messages that Rosalind Davis is taking to heart.

IN SOUTHWEST MICHIGAN, THERE WILL BE A COUPLE OF WAYS TO PARTICIPATE IN GO RED FOR WOMEN. NATIONAL WEAR RED DAY will take place on February 1 and everyone is encouraged to wear a touch of red that day. Also, several businesses in downtown Kalamazoo will go red in conjunction with ART HOP. On February 8 there will be a GO RED FOR WOMEN LUNCHEON at the Radisson. This event, sponsored nationally by CVS Health and locally presented by Ascension Borgess, will require tickets.

Learn more at Heart. org/KalamazooGoRed

February 2019

21

How to Set Clear

Expectations for Valentine' s Day

V

So You’re Not Let Down

alentine’s Day is an emotionally charged holiday that can create a lot of stress. The expectations can be high and we put immense pressure on ourselves to celebrate the day just so. While being able to clearly communicate your expectations is always important, with a holiday like Valentine’s Day, it becomes even more pressing to know where you stand, and then communicate that effectively with the people around you. No one likes to be let down, especially on a day that’s supposed to be filled with love!

So, how do we do this? How do we clearly articulate what we want or don’t want on Valentine’s Day?

you instead of with you? How do you know when someone is showing love, attention, or affection towards you?

UNDERSTAND WHAT VALENTINE’S DAY MEANS TO YOU Many people, over half of Americans in fact, chose to celebrate this holiday. On a scale of 1 - 10, how important is this holiday to you?

Why is it important, or not important for you to celebrate it? How would you feel if you didn’t? If you’re in a relationship, it’s equally important to ask your partner these same questions. How would I like to spend the day?

Second, we need to effectively communicate First, we have to get honest with ourselves. this with the people around us. Now that you This might seem overly simplified, but how know yourself, what’s most important to you, often do we really take time to understand ourselves and what we want? Read through the and how you’d like to spend the holiday, it’s time to have the conversation and ask for questions below and have a real conversation what you want. with yourself. It’s ok if your answers are different than you thought they would be!

Things become more or less important as we grow and change.

KNOW YOURSELF

It’s amazing how many people don’t know what they like, but expect someone else to know! So, answer some simple questions to get to know yourself better: What do you like or enjoy doing? What makes you feel your best? Do you feel recharged after some time alone or with a group of people? Do you appreciate gifts over time together? Would you prefer that someone does something for

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February 2019

USE “I” STATEMENTS

When you use “I” statements, you’re speaking more directly from the heart- saying what really matters to you. Since you are stating something that you want, it should be about you, and not them. For example, “I would like to exchange gifts for Valentine’s Day” sounds much different than, “You should buy me a gift”.

EXPLAIN WHY IT’S IMPORTANT TO YOU

Our loved ones can’t read our mind. This is probably a good thing! However, we then need to explain our expectations. People are

much more likely to respect your wishes if they know about them AND know why they are important to you. So, let’s add on to the tip above to make our communication even better.

“I would like to exchange gifts for Valentine’s Day because I enjoy getting something from you that’s thoughtful and it shows me that you care.” Conversely, if you don’t want to celebrate Valentine’s Day, make sure you’ve articulated this clearly so your wishes are respected as well.

YOU AND YOUR PARTNER ARE WORTH YOUR HONESTY

Know that you are worthy of setting and voicing your expectations. Put your energy into clearly and respectfully asking for what you need instead of questioning whether or not you’re worthy of receiving it. That being said, make your requests reasonable for the circumstance. Putting unrealistic pressure on a partner, especially out of the blue, can cause tension. If you want to exchange gifts for Valentine’s Day, for example, agree upon a price limit that makes you both comfortable. _____ Hopefully these tips encourage you to get clear on what you want for Valentine’s Day and then speak up and ask for it!

Emily Betros is a licensed clinical social worker, certified health coach, and owner of Reclaiming Health, LLC. She helps clients put together an individualized plan to meet their health goals. Emily enjoys hiking, traveling, vegan-izing recipes, and spending time with her husband and daughter.

WomensLifeStyleKazoo.com

Bedroom Bloopers

Why Laughter in the Bedroom Isn’t a Bad Thing

L

isten, I may be a sexologist, but that doesn’t mean that I’ve never had awkward sex. If anything, I’ve had more than my fair share of bedroom bloopers. Everyone has experienced some kind of awkward moments during intimacy and let me tell you— it is completely normal.

When you first start becoming intimate with someone, there is going to be some awkwardness. Their body is new to you, and you’re trying to figure out what it likes and dislikes. Sure you may know the basics, but no two people are alike. The discovery process can lend itself to some pretty memorable incidences. Fortunately, after a while, you’ll be able to better know what KALAMAZOO • PORTAGE • BATTLE CREEK ST. JOSEPH • SOUTH HAVEN

pleases your partner. Making mistakes or mishaps are all part of the process.

basic relationship level as you revel in the funny moments of your journey together.

Sex can get real strange real fast. What is often seen as effortless on screen can come to a screeching halt when someone takes a foot to the head while switching positions.

It’s important to note that the intimate scenes portrayed in media are great acting and made for entertainment. To think that what you see on screen will translate seamlessly into your own bedroom life is an illusion.

Vulnerability can be scary, but it can also be a vehicle to increase intimacy and trust in your relationship. Healthy couples should be able to take it on the chin, ahem, with silly moments and feel safe enough to laugh about any sort of bedroom mishap. Bottom line, if you haven’t laughed during sex, you might be doing it wrong.

There will be missteps, weird sounds, poorly timed bodily functions and a whole host of other things that are less than ideal and that’s OK. When you and your partner can laugh at these happenings, you have surpassed the

Dr. Megan Stubbs is a Sexologist, the job you never saw on career day.

For insightful tips or a good laugh, find her on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and SexologistMegan.com

February 2019

23

Romantic Dinner Chocolate Souffle

4 Tablespoons unsalted butter, divided use 2 Tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder 6 ounces 70% bittersweet chocolate, chopped into chunks 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 4 large eggs, separated 4 Tablespoons granulated sugar Pinch of salt Pinch of cream of tartar

Preheat oven to 375 degrees.

Use the first 2 Tablespoons of butter to grease your ramekins, making sure to cover the entire surface.

Coat the buttered ramekins with cocoa powder, tapping out the excess.

In a large microwave-safe bowl, microwave chocolate chunks and the last 2 Tablespoons of butter in 30-second intervals, stirring inbetween until melted and smooth.

Stir in vanilla.

Add in the egg yolks one at a time, stirring it quickly into the warm chocolate so that it doesn’t get cooked.

Set chocolate mixture aside.

In a separate clean bowl, place egg whites, sugar, salt, and cream of tartar. Beat egg whites until stiff. (To test if the egg whites are ready, you can tilt your bowl to see if the mixture no longer moves.)

Gently fold in the egg whites in 3 batches into the bowl of chocolate.

Stop folding once all the egg whites have been incorporated to avoid deflating the mixture.

The batter should turn light and airy.

Divide the batter into the prepared ramekins, filling all to the top.

Place ramekins onto a baking tray and bake for about 20 minutes, or until soufflĂŠs are puffed and set.

Heather Dombos comes from a long, southern tradition of hospitality and hearty cooking. You can usually find her in the kitchen whipping up something special for family and friends.

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February 2019

FOR T WO

Almond Martini

2 oz Vodka 1 oz Amaretto ½ oz Dry Vermouth Crushed Ice Combine all ingredients in a cocktail shaker and fill 2/3 with crushed ice. Put the cap on and shake for 30 seconds.

Fine strain the cocktail into a chilled martini glass. Enjoy!

WomensLifeStyleKazoo.com

Crispy Smashed Potatoes 12 to 15 baby red potatoes 2-3/4 tsp. kosher salt 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil Boil the potatoes until tender. Drain.

Line a large baking sheet with aluminum foil then top the foil with parchment paper.

Place boiled potatoes on baking sheet and use a potato masher or bottom of a drinking glass to flatten the potatoes.

Cool potatoes to room temperature.

Roast the potatoes Heat the oven to 450 degrees.

Sprinkle the potatoes with about 3/4 tsp. salt & pour the olive oil over them.

Lift the potatoes gently to make sure some of the oil goes underneath them and that they are well coated on both sides.

Roast the potatoes until they’re crispy and deep brown around the edges, about 30 to 40 minutes turning over once gently with a spatula or tongs halfway through cooking.

Serve hot.

Stuffed Flank Steak 2 tablespoons canola oil, divided 2 pounds flank steak Salt & pepper, to taste 1 cup asiago cheese, shredded 1 cup gorgonzola cheese, crumbled 1 cup fresh baby spinach leaves, roughly chopped 3 tablespoons chopped garlic 2 sweet onions, such as Vidalia, chopped 2 cups mushrooms, thinly sliced

and onion mixture on top, spreading it evenly across the steak. Sprinkle the spinach on top, followed by the asiago and gorgonzola.

Press down lightly to compress the spinach.

Starting at the bottom of the flank steak, roll it up tightly, making sure the grain of the meat is running horizontally.

Use six toothpicks to secure the steak roll.

Slice the steak roll into six Heat one tablespoon of the oil equal rolls. in a pan over medium-high heat.

Heat the remaining oil in a pan Combine the garlic, onions, over high heat. Sear the steak mushrooms, salt, and pepper rolls on one side for one to two in the pan and cook until minutes, then flip. almost all of the moisture has Sear the second side for about evaporated and the onions are one minute, then bake for 10–15 caramelizing, 15–20 minutes. minutes, until medium rare.

Remove from heat and set Remove the toothpicks and aside. serve.

Lay the flank steak on a cutting board. Spoon the mushroom

KALAMAZOO • PORTAGE • BATTLE CREEK ST. JOSEPH • SOUTH HAVEN

February 2019

25

Find Your Fit M

Heather Dombos is a Florida girl who brings a little sass & southern charm to everything she does. This wife, dog mom, & closet Trekkie loves reading, hiking, long days on the beach and exploring Michigan.

ost of us know that finding an exercise routine that you love (and will stick with) can be difficult.

For some of us with limitations like; obesity, age or chronic health conditions, it can make finding and joining a gym feel almost impossible. After much thought and research, it is clear that the number one predicter of success when it comes to starting and maintaining a fitness plan is finding something that you actually enjoy doing. Luckily, the Kalamazoo area has a wide variety of gyms and fitness studios to choose from. Over the next few months we will be giving you a preview of some of the most popular workouts in the area and hopefully we can help you Find Your Fit!

TITLE BOXING CLUB

New to the area, Title Boxing Club’s gorgeous new location offers the only authentic fullbody boxing workout that utilizes the fundamentals of a true boxer’s workout. The signature workout offered by Title Boxing Club will strengthen and tone you arms, legs, back, core, stamina and your confidence. The workouts at Title Boxing Club are exhilarating, empowering and addictive.

Offering group classes or one on one sessions with their certified personal trainers, Amy and the staff of Title Boxing Club are friendly, knowledgeable, and dedicated to helping all of their members become the best they can possibly be and remind everyone we “get fit not hit”. For more information visit:www.titleboxingclub.com/ kalamazoo-mi/

JUST MOVE FITNESS AND MORE With over 30 group classes offered each week, Just Move Fitness and More has something for everyone. Whether you are interested in aqua fitness, yoga, cardio drumming, kick boxing or pom squad, Heather and Veronica at Just Move have a workout you are sure to love. They believe that exercise is for everyone

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February 2019

and their staff of certified fitness professionals are committed to helping you reach your goals.

Just Move’s certified fitness professional instructors will help you get the most out of how you can move today so you can move stronger, longer and better for a long time. For more visit: www.justmovefit.com.

WomensLifeStyleKazoo.com

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KALAMAZOO • PORTAGE • BATTLE CREEK ST. JOSEPH • SOUTH HAVEN

February 2019

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While the Cat's Away,

The Mice Will Play

WHILE THE CAT’S AWAY, THE MICE WILL DEFINITELY PLAY!

food items, leave feces & urine everywhere they go, can drop flea eggs and tick nymphs on your carpet and can be a mechanical vector for harmful bacteria & disease.

This is the time of year that rodents are known to invade our homes. The most common are mice, chipmunks and squirrels. These rodents can invade during any season, but they are more likely to make their way inside when temperatures drop.

HERE ARE A FEW TIPS TO TRY TO EXCLUDE RODENTS FROM YOUR HOME:

Mice can access a home through holes the size of a dime. If they find a hole that is too small, they are equipped with strong front teeth that can chew through to make it large enough to enter. Mice target windows and door frames, weather stripping and door sweeps, gaps around plumbing and electrical conduits as well as gaps under garage doors.

Once they find their way into your home, rodents can do all kinds of damage. They cause damage to building materials, insulation, clothing, books and furniture. They contaminate

TRAPPING AND BAITING – There are many products on the market that homeowners can buy. Some are more effective than others.

REMOVE ATTRACTANTS – Consider moving construction materials, wood piles and stored items away from your exterior walls.

This includes water sources and overgrown vegetation. Keeping your yard and exterior clear can help from attracting unwanted pests.

MONITOR FOR ACTIVITY – It is important to do regular inspections of your home for signs of rodents. Inspect for droppings left in cupboards, chewing damage, the smell of urine, holes dug in the ground and grease marks on walls.

269-993-0051 PESTPR SMI.C M

o

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SEAL EXTERIOR WALLS – Mice will search for entry points along the exterior of your home. Inspect your home for wood rot, insect damage, small holes near electrical wires and plumbing and window and door frames.

Repair any openings as soon as possible.

PROFESSIONAL HELP – The best way to deal

with these issues is to contact a professional.

Removing rodents and keeping them out can be extremely difficult without training in rodent control, behavior and exclusion. Look for a company that uses the latest technology to control and remove rodents and prevent future infestations. Ask if they specialize in locating and sealing entry points, on top of getting rid of any current issue.

2520 AZO CT | KALAMAZOO fb.com/pestprosmi

SERVICES AVAILABLE

• Stink Bugs • Spiders • Termites • Ants & MORE • Rodent Control • Home Inspections • Wildlife Removal 28

February 2019

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KALAMAZOO • PORTAGE • BATTLE CREEK ST. JOSEPH • SOUTH HAVEN

Elizabeth Forest, CMT • Traditional Massage Therapy • Oncology Massage • Member AMTA & S4OM

Choose massage for detoxing, realigning and recharging.

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For appts, call (269) 615-0860 | elizabethforestmassage.com

February 2019

29

Restaurant Review RUSTICA

236 S. Kalamazoo Mall | Kalamazoo, MI (269) 492-0247 Hours: 5pm – 10pm Scallops Rustica is located in the heart of Downtown Kalamazoo on the Mall. They opened in 2009 and cater to foodies, like myself. According to their website, Rustica “blends influences from France, Italy, Spain, and other European countries along with regional Michigan fare.”

They also use many local farmers in the area to supply the food for their menus. Pretty cool.

We all met at Principle right next door to have a pre dinner cocktail, then walked over to Rustica.

Lucky for us Rustica started taking reservations about a year ago.

A quick note on the service at Rustica. It’s excellent. They are there when you need them, almost anticipating your needs before you know. Yet they aren’t annoying. They don’t pop up every five seconds. They leave you to enjoy your food and drink. It’s kind of an art.

As a group, we decided to order a few starters to share as a table. We went with their SCALLOPS, the PORK BELLY, and the CHARCUTERIE BOARD. In my previous visit I had their bone marrow and it was delicious! Probably the only bone marrow I’ve really enjoyed. The plates came promptly and they were AMAZING!

I was a bit confused by the SCALLOPS at first because they were rather small. But let me tell you….the flavor was BIG. They were possibly some of the best scallops I’ve ever had. They were served in a lemon parsley risotto that was beyond delicious. If I’m being honest, I was pretty bummed that I had to share these with four other people.

The CHARCUTERIE BOARD was awesome. The cured meats, which they do in house, were great. I had no idea what meats they were, but I loved all of them. There was also a grilled bread that was perfect with the mustard that was included on the board.

THE BEST starter was the PORK BELLY. Oh my goodness, I can’t even tell you. It was a mix of tender and crispy. Salty and flavorful.

Just awesome. And once again, I just was disappointed that there wasn’t more, or maybe

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February 2019

that there were so many people to have to share it with. My mouth is seriously watering right now as I type this and think back to that pork belly!

After much debate, I decided on the FISH…. maybe the best fish dish I have ever had! It was cooked (& served) in parchment paper.

The fish had capers and green olives on it and was buried in some potatoes and other vegetables (cue mouth watering, again.) I loved the presentation. Even the parchment paper that it was served in was pretty!

My friend had ordered pasta that looked so amazing, and I asked to try. It was PAPPARDELLE, so it was the wide, fat noodles which are made in house each day. If I’m being honest, I have no idea what the sauce was or what else was in the pasta, I just know it was to die for! It was rich, but not so rich that she couldn’t enjoy more than a few bites.

It was a large portion, but not so large (like some pasta dishes can get) that it seemed impossible to make a dent in it.

Next, I tried my other friend’s entrée, the TRITIP KOBE STEAK. It was perfect. A little pink on the inside with a crusty blackened crust on the outside. Super tender and amazingly seasoned.

I really enjoyed the potato that came with the steak. It was built almost like a potato lasagna where they took think slices of potato and piled them up, baked them (I’m assuming) and then cut them into squares. They were topped with a sour cream & bits of delicious bacon. Delish! It also came with some lovely shredded brussels that rounded out the plate nicely.

Pork Belly

Market Fish

Pappardelle

Altogether, we had an amazing meal together.

The ambiance and atmosphere was perfect.

The service was on point.

The real star was their food. I will be dreaming of that fish until I go back & try their next wonderful meal.

Elizabeth Buckley is a hairstylist by day and 24/7 food enthusiast.

She visits restaurants in the Kalamazoo area and blogs about her experience at feedmekzoo.com

Tri-Tip Kobe Steak WomensLifeStyleKazoo.com

Create the

Perfect Bedroom

BY LORI MARKS

A

hhh, the bedroom: The first room we see in the morning and the last room we see at night. The place we read, relax, dress, unwind, get away from what’s happening in the rest of the house and, of course, sleep. The bedroom should be your sanctuary — a space in which you feel comfortable and totally enjoy.

Creating the perfect bedroom shouldn’t be just a dream. A few simple guidelines can start you on your way to a beautiful, relaxing space.

LIGHTING

DE-CLUTTER

“The bedroom should be your sanctuary — a space in which you feel comfortable and totally enjoy.

If you’re starting from scratch, clean the floors, windows, walls and furniture. Even if you’re not, do the same but also focus on de-cluttering. Get rid of the items you don’t use, don’t like, don’t wear and anything that shouldn’t be there (laundry, toys, mail, etc.).

Once you clean it, keep it that way. A cluttered bedroom does nothing to help you relax. You can, however, keep a few intentionally placed items, such as candles or books, on your nightstand or dresser.

PAINT

Different colors evoke different emotions. If you want calm, choose blues, greens, neutrals or pastels. Dark colors will create a cozy, cocoon-like effect, however, red is usually not advised as it can be too stimulating. Feel free to use wallpaper, as well, just don’t go overboard. Think about how you want to feel when you’re in the room.

If you have overhead lighting, it tends to be a brighter light. This is great for things you need to see and do, but think about adding dimmers for lower lighting when you want it. Lamps on nightstands are great for softer light or for reading. If you want to maintain space on your nightstands, wall sconces are also a nice option and swing arm lamps allow you to adjust the light where you’d like it.

ELECTRONICS

This is a debatable subject. The recommendation is to leave electronics out of the bedroom. This includes the television, laptop and even the phone. They are too tempting and too stimulating at a time when you’re ready for rest. Admittedly, many (if not most) of us keep our phones on our nightstands but try to resist the urge to look at it unless necessary. Put it in your nightstand drawer and leave it until morning. The television is a

Lori Marks is a graduate of Michigan State University. She currently works as a designer at Stonesthrow, helping clients redesign & refresh their interior space. To connect with Lori, visit Stonesthrowliving.com KALAMAZOO • PORTAGE • BATTLE CREEK ST. JOSEPH • SOUTH HAVEN

personal preference: If you really want to promote sleep, don’t put one in the room. If it’s your “snuggle up with somebody and watch a good movie” spot, well, you know what works best for you.

THE BED

The most important piece in your room is the bed, particularly the mattress. Be careful in your selection. Shop around. Try them out.

Choose what works best for you and then buy good, quality sheets with a high thread count (400 or above). You spend a third of your life sleeping, so a good mattress is essential! Dress the bed with a nice comforter or duvet cover, add toss pillows in different shapes and a bed skirt. A more contemporary bed may have legs and will not require a bed skirt or even heavy bedding. In this case, you may prefer a simpler, cleaner look.

Finally, add the details. If a chair and small side table will fit into the room, add them.

They provide a spot to relax and also pull the room together. Remember to measure before you buy. Make sure any furniture, including the bed, will fit. Window treatments can be added based on the style of your room (long drapes vs. a pleated or Roman shade) and how much light you prefer coming into the room.

A large rug can be placed on hardwood floors under the bed and artwork and accessories will personalize the space. When you’re done, you’ll have a comfortable bed in a beautiful room — now, that’s something to wake up to!

February 2019

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What To Do When You Feel ASHLEY CARTER YOUNGBLOOD, LMSW, LMFT, CMHIMP

It is normal to sometimes feel “down,” tired, overwhelmed, or tearful. It is especially common to have such periods during the months of the year with less sunlight given the reduced natural Vitamin D. However, such a state should not be continuous. And, there are things that can be done to feel better if you feel depressed.

Even if you’re not comfortable using the formal clinical word “depression,” it’s important to make an effort to help yourself feel better and get back to normal. You deserve it. Here are several ideas. Take them and run with them or experiment with what you know has worked for you in the past.

Get some exercise – Although often the last thing we want to do when we are feeling down is to exercise, when is the last time that you exercised and did not feel in a better mood afterwards? Exercise releases healthy endorphins that can work as our body’s natural anti-depressants. Exercise can also help increase our energy, self-esteem, and body image. So, do something you like, even if it’s a brief walk around your neighborhood or having a dance party in your living room.

Be social – Although all we may want do is curl into a ball and isolate ourselves when feeling depressed, the last thing we need is more isolation! We need healthy social interaction!

So, reach out to loved ones and schedule something, even if it’s just a simple date for

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February 2019

Depressed

coffee. Maybe consider sharing with them that you are struggling emotionally so that they can help reach out to you and encourage you to interact more outside of your home.

Connect with a furry friend – It is hard to not get a flood of positive emotions when around cute puppies or kittens. So, take a page out of nature’s book and find a way to interact with animals that make you smile. Research has shown that interacting with or even petting animals releases feel-good chemicals in the brain. So, get your daily dose of dog to help with your mood.

Eat right – I know. The last thing we feel motivated to do is to do the work to eat healthy when we are feeling depressed.

But, recent research is linking the health of our gut (now called the “Second Brain” by researchers) to depressive symptoms. Dr. David Perlmutter documents in his book “Brain Maker” that patients immediately demonstrated depressive symptoms when their healthy gut biochemistry was intentionally compromised and inflammatory markers that accompany an unhealthy diet were increased. Since we are what we eat, offer yourself some healthy fuel.

Do something just for you – Feeling down is hard enough. Find and do something that brings you joy. Take a

bubble bath with candles. Make a warm cup of tea. Watch your favorite funny movie. Allow yourself joy even if you don’t feel like it in the moment.

The above are some suggestions to get you started. But, above all, you should know that depression affects the brain. So, if your symptoms persist or become as severe as thinking about harming or even killing yourself, it is time to seek help from a professional or even go to the emergency room.

Find a therapist or a doctor who specializes in mental health. You can also consider antidepressant medication but also make sure that you connect with a professional who can help you learn what to do when you feel depressed, getting to the root of what is causing you to feel depressed in order to help you treat the cause; not just the symptoms.

Ashley Carter Youngblood is a psychotherapist and Certified Mental Health Integrated Medicine Provider at Inner Peace Counseling, PLC in Kalamazoo. Her specialties include women’s issues, anxiety, holistic healing, and mindfulness. Find out more about her at her website, www.kalamazoo-counseling.com

WomensLifeStyleKazoo.com

PODCASTS For those new to podcasts: welcome. Podcasts are a digital audio files available for downloading to a computer or mobile device. Available on iTunes (for Apple users) or Google Play, Spotify, Stitchr, Podcast Addict (for Android users). They are typically available as a series, which can be received by subscribers automatically. Podcasts are one of the quickest growing forms of entertainment. With 525,000 active podcasts and over 18.5 million episodes, it is safe to say that podcasts are here to stay.

The staff at Women’s LifeStyle has complied a list of some of our favorite podcasts for you to enjoy.

Do you have a favorite podcast? Share your suggestions with us by emailing editor@wlskazoo.com.

LOSING 100 POUNDS WITH PHIT-N-PHAT -Heather D. Master Weight Loss Coach, Corinne, helps you cut through your excuses that keep you from losing weight. What makes her an expert? She lost 100lbs after a lifetime of obesity. You’ll love her straight talk and how she relates to the REAL struggles like food pushers and what it’s like to walk in that gym the first time. The language can get a little salty, but the advice is pure gold.

MY FAVORITE MURDER -Alicia P. Lifelong fans of true crime stories Karen and Georgia tell each other their favorite tales of murder and hear hometown crime stories from friends and fans. This fresh podcast blends tough topics with some comic relief. The hosts and their inside jokes are absolutely fabulous. In addition to their great stories, the hosts often recommend new true crime podcasts or podcasts that delve deeper into a topic they are covering.

UP AND VANISHED -Suzannah Z. Up and Vanished is a two-season investigative podcast that explores unsolved disappearances Season 1 follows the story of Georgia beauty queen and high school teacher, Tara Grinstead while Season 2 tells the story of missing Colorado mom, Kristal Reisinger. Follow along as host Payne Lindsey, a filmmaker turned amateur investigator, examines old case evidence and re-interviews persons of interest.

I’LL DRINK TO THAT -Suzannah Z. A former sommelier, Levi Dalton, interviews famous and knowledgeable wine personalities in his tiny apartment.

He gets them to talk candidly about their lives and work, and then shares the conversations with you. Uncork your favorite bottle of wine and enjoy this fun and informative podcast.

BY THE BOOK -Alicia P. By the Book is half reality show, half selfhelp podcast, and one wild social experiment.

One host has a wonderful Minnesotan accent that makes me smile; trends sometimes seem ridiculous, but once you hear these ladies and the people in their lives put self-help books into action, you can decide whether it may be valuable to apply some of this ‘advice’ or if the initial impression of this new trend being ridiculous was correct.

MONSTER: THE ZODIAC KILLER -Heather D. Tenderfoot TV in a partnership with HowStuffWorks dives into one of the most haunting, notorious, unsolved serial killing sprees in history. Payne Lindsay (from Up and Vanished) looks at the sketches, cyphers and taunting letters to the press in hopes of answering the question: who is the Zodiac?

KALAMAZOO • PORTAGE • BATTLE CREEK ST. JOSEPH • SOUTH HAVEN

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READER’S

Dear Fahrenheit 451

by Annie Spence A librarian takes us on a journey through the stacks of books she has encountered over her desk and on her shelves with inspiring and critical letters to the many authors about their titles. This collection of love/hate letters with keep you laughing.

The Truths We Hold: An American Journey

by Kamala Harris This is a fresh voice that we may be hearing a lot of as we get to the next presidential election.

The author of this memoir was the District Attorney for California before becoming a U. S. Senator. She recounts her experience in a job that was demanding & difficult.

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February 2019

Suggestions brought to you by Gloria Tiller, owner of Kazoo Books.

Kazoo Books features used and new titles. The staff is experienced & can help you with suggestions. Come visit them at 2413 Parkview. There is plenty of parking in the back.

Dare to Lead: Brave Work.

Tough Conversations. Whole Hearts

by Brene Brown Brene has brought us another textbook on leadership. Our business relations depend on our ability to understand the people we lead. She reaches into an area that few business people like to venture. How do we expose our vulnerability to find the courage to work through uncertainty, risk and emotional exposure; to lead with empathy?

This is a ‘beyond the basics’ business we should all read.

The Good Neighbor, The Life and Work of Fred Rogers

by Maxwell King This is the first full length biography of the TV legend that most of us grew up watching. Fred Rogers was more than teacher of the year. He put his heart into the elaborate episodes each week. Find out about the man behind the scenes and how his legacy will live on through his example.

The Witch Elm

At the same time as releasing this memoir, she also released a children’s book called Superheros are Everywhere. The message is a powerful. We can all appear to be superheros to the people in our lives, whether you are a teacher, parent or mentor, make a difference in a life.

by Tana French This award winning author is back with another stand alone suspense thriller. Set in Dublin is becomes a haunting mixed up family mystery that keeps spinning out of control. Author of In the Woods, this is another suspense tale you can’t put down.

WomensLifeStyleKazoo.com

Help Pets Ward Off Winter Risks (Family Features) When temperatures drop, humans know to bundle up and avoid excess time outdoors. The same approach should be taken when it comes to pets. They may be covered by cozy fur coats, but not all of those coats are created equally.

“Hypothermia is a real danger for pets in the wintertime, and despite pets’ natural fur coats, it doesn’t take long for hypothermia to set in and cause serious problems,” said Jennifer Freeman, DVM, PetSmart’s resident veterinarian and pet care expert.

Freeman recommends keeping an eye out for the initial signs of hypothermia, such as skin that’s cold to the touch, pale skin and gums, intense shivering and lethargy. In addition, she offers these tips to help protect your pet from a blustery winter:

OUTDOOR ACCESS: Limit walks in extreme

cold weather and monitor your pet’s behavior for signs of stress or discomfort. Never leave a pet outside during a winter storm. Do not let your dog off its leash after snowfall. Snow masks familiar scents and your pet may become lost and disoriented.

CHEMICAL HAZARDS: Snow-melting products like deicers, antifreeze and salt can cause skin irritations and, if ingested, can be fatal. If you

live in an area where these products are used, it’s important to thoroughly rinse your pet’s paws and belly after a walk.

ADDING EXTRA LAYERS: If your pet is small

and short-haired, he or she is likely sensitive to the cold. The same goes for older pets and those that may be frail or ill. You can’t take your pet’s temperature by touching its nose, but a shivering body means he or she needs a sweater. Larger and long-haired pets can usually tolerate cold weather for longer periods of time, and even though you might bundle up, your pet has a long, thick coat prepared for long winter walks. Just remember paws get cold and sharp objects may be hiding under the powder - consider putting booties on your pet’s paws for added comfort.

SKIN-SAVING SOLUTIONS: Many pets get

dry skin during the winter season. When they do need a bath, try using a pet-friendly moisturizing shampoo to help keep their skin healthy and pH-balanced.

In addition, a pet emergency preparedness kit should be packed and contain the supplies needed to help keep your pet fed, warm and secure in the event of emergency conditions such as blizzards and extreme cold weather.

Items like a sweater, insulated vest, paw

KALAMAZOO • PORTAGE • BATTLE CREEK ST. JOSEPH • SOUTH HAVEN

booties or wax, pet-safe ice melt and a heated bed or pad can all help head off risks associated with cold weather.

Emergencies can also create circumstances for pets to become separated from their families.

In addition to ensuring your pet is wearing a tag with your cell phone number along with microchipping and registering him or her with current contact information, also tuck a copy of your pet’s vaccination and medical records, veterinary contact information and a current photo of your pet in your emergency kit.

Keeping your pet well-fed through an emergency also requires advanced planning.

Store a one-week supply of food in a waterproof container, along with bottled water, portable bowls, a manual can opener (if your pet eats canned food) and a list of feeding routines and behavioral considerations in case someone else must take over care.

Also be sure to gather any other care items your pet may require, such as puppy pads, waste bags, litter box supplies and calming spray.

Find more advice for keeping your pet safe this winter at PetSmart.com.

Photo courtesy of Getty Images | Source: PetSmart

February 2019

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Calendar of Events

It’s easy to get listed in our Events Calendar. Our deadline is the 10th of the month prior to publication.

Email us at: calendar@womenslifestylekazoo.com.

Please type CALENDAR in the subject line.

January 31 – February 2 Midwestern & Pacific Coast Synchronized Skating Champs Wings Event Center. Teams will be competing for a spot at the US Synchronized Skating Championships to be held in Plymouth, Michigan in late February 2019.

Join us to see teams from Preliminary to Senior/International levels compete! 269-978-0118. midwesternsynchrosectionals.com

February 1 The Ultimate Fleetwood Mac Tribute Band

Kalamazoo State Theatre. 8 – 10:30 pm. Join us for the ultimate tribute to the legendary Fleetwood Mac represented by authentic-sounding and always respectful, Tusk. Watch as they leave no stone unturned in replicating the sounds of one of the world’s best-loved, top-selling bands. $29 - $49.

February 1 Art Hop

Various Locations throughout Downtown Kalamazoo. 5 – 9 pm.

Art Hop is a free event that features new art exhibits in a fun, casual atmosphere. Numerous galleries and businesses in the downtown area host a variety of artwork. Free.

269-342-5059. www.kalamazooarts.com

February 2 7th Annual Snow Party!

Oakland Drive Park. 12 – 3 pm. A great opportunity to enjoy time with your family and friends, all while enjoying a Michigan winter! There will be many activities to enjoy such as sledding and a snowman building contest! Should the snow forget to fall, there will still be a cardboard sled design contest. In addition, in the absence of snow, there will be other winter-themed activities for folks to enjoy. Free.

269-329-4511. www.portagemi.gov

February 2 CND Ice, Wine, Beer & Blues

Dark Horse Brewery. 2:30 – 5:30 pm. Beat cabin fever by spending some time at the Ice, Wine, Beer & Blues Festival. Chief Noonday Chapter of the North Country Trail Association will sponsor a short free, guided hike from 2-6 miles (length is your choice) along the Marshall River Trail on paved surfaces. Blues are in the evening at 7-11 pm at the Franke Arts Center. Tickets available online or at the door. www.fb.com/icewinebeerbluesmarshall/

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February 2019

February 2 Wine Not?

Bernhard Center, WMU. 5 – 8 pm.

The 5th Annual Wine Not? Winter wine festival is getting a brand-new venue! Join us to benefit Miles for Memories. All your favorite wineries from around Michigan and across the country. Sip, stroll, and relax in the warm indoors with friends and great wines! Must be 21 years old to attend. 269-978-2167. www. eventbrite.com/e/2019-wine-nottickets-51591518621

February 6, 13, 20. 27 Jazz Jams

The Union. 7 – 10 pm. Free Live Music with Wednesday night Jazz Jams at The Union Cabaret & Grille! WMU jazz students take over the stage for a jam session every Wednesday night! The Union also features 1/2 off Well drinks. 269-384-6756. www.fb.com/ events/505139726669919

February 8 2019 Kalamazoo Go Red For Women Luncheon

Radisson Plaza Hotel. 10 am – 1:30 pm. The Go Red for Women luncheon continues to serve as the cornerstone event of the Go Red For Women movement in local communities. This empowering event focuses on preventing heart disease and stroke by promoting healthy lifestyles, building awareness and raising critically-needed funds to support research and education initiatives. Tickets required.

February 9 Share the Love Tour

Kalamazoo State Theatre. 8 – 10 pm. The best-selling solo pianist celebrates 2 decades of music with his Share the Love Tour. Experience the sounds of award-winning hit-maker, pianist and recording artist Jim Brickman as he brings one of the most entertaining and romantic concert events of the year. 269345-6500. www.kazoostate.com

February 10 Zhang Zuo

Wellspring Theatre – Epic Center. 4 – 6 pm. An imaginative and electrifying performer, Chinese pianist Zhang Zuo (“Zee Zee”) is unique among the young generation of pianists. Her interpretations and communicative abilities have been praised as “taking us to another reality... bright, expressive

WomensLifeStyleKazoo.com

and moving to the extreme”. Tickets required. 269-342-1166. www. thegilmore.org/event/zhang-zuo/

February 12 MASTERMIND

Fetzer Center. 5:30 – 8 pm. Please join us for the February MASTERMIND Dinner. Our program will focus on pampering yourself. $25. Register by February 6th at 8 pm. www.wlskmastermind. com | tinyurl.com/y6u83pn2

February 13 “Thriver – Health Talks”

Ascension Borgess Health Club– 3025 Gull Rd, 5:30 - 7:00 pm, Monthly – 2nd Wednesday.

“Improving Your Quality of Life” is a group of people who have had or having health issues and focusing on health for everyone through education. Ascension Borgess Health Club Sponsored. Free and all are welcome. 269-3811986. mderuyter99@gmail.com

February 14 Community Costume Prom Kalamazoo State Theatre. 7 – 11:30 pm. Dress up your next Valentine’s Day at BBP’s 21+ Community Costume Prom.

Emceed by Katherine Harte-

DeCoux, you’ll enjoy a night of live music from Bride of Fleckenstein, ballroom dancing, a Costume Cabaret, awards and prizes, a DJ, dance party, and karaoke on the main stage. The enchanted evening also offers a photo station, games, food, and a night in the most elegant, historic theatre in town. $35. 269-345-6500. www. kazoostate.com

February 16 Special Olympics Michigan Kalamazoo Polar Plunge

Bell’s Eccentric Café. Pre-registration: Wednesday Feb. 13 6 – 8 pm at Bell’s. Day of registration at 9:30 am. Plunge at 10:30 am. Awards and after splash bash following the plunge. 616-730-7209. West1ad@ cmich.edu

February 16 Teddy Riley & David Hollister of Blackstreet

Kalamazoo State Theatre. 8 – 10 pm. One of the most celebrated and top R&B vocal groups, Blackstreet, is performing! Get down to “No Diggity” and other Blackstreet hits like “Booti Call” and “Before I Let You Go” LIVE. $45 - $79. 269-3456500. www.kazoostate.com

KALAMAZOO • PORTAGE • BATTLE CREEK ST. JOSEPH • SOUTH HAVEN

February 17 Kzoo Baby & Family Expo

Radisson Plaza Hotel. 10 am – 3 pm. Now in its 11th year, the expo features more than 50 exhibitors, plus a chance to let your kids explore and play. Head downtown for a day filled with learning and adventure for pregnant moms and families with kids up to age 8 – everyone is welcome, of course, older kids too. Free. www.kzoofamilyexpo.com

February 23 23rd Annual Garage Sale Art Fair

Kalamazoo County Expo Center. 9 am – 4 pm. If you like art fairs and you love a good bargain, this is the show for you! 145 art fair artists will be selling their overstocks, seconds, leftover supplies and things they’re just tired of, for bargain prices. Held in Main Expo & Expo South. $5, free for children. www.garagesaleartfair.com

February 23 Way of Escape Singles Conference Mt. Zion Baptist Church. 10 am – 2 pm. Have you ever felt trapped in a situation feeling unable to get

out? Wouldn’t it be nice to know solutions for life circumstances before the situation occurs?

Join us as we discuss real life predicaments pertaining to single women and learn a way to escape these situations. Free Food and prizes! 269-388-3111. www.mtzionkalamazoo.org

February 23 Chris D’elia Follow the Leader Tour

Kalamazoo State Theatre. 8 – 10 pm. Chris D’Elia is one of the most sought-after performers in the comedy world. D’Elia is best known for his stand up and starring role on the NBC comedy series ‘Undateable.’ His latest standup special, ‘Man on Fire,’ is now on Netflix. $20 students. $45 general admission. 269-345-6500. www. kazoostate.com

February 23 Downtown Kalamazoo Restaurant Week

Participating restaurants downtown Kalamazoo. Restaurant Week allows many of the restaurants in Downtown to highlight what makes them truly special with a price fix menu at either $10, $25 or $35.

February 2019

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Think you’ve got the BEST MOM in KALAMAZOO?

Menus are being updated daily, so come back and check out the week where your kitchen can close, and you can treat yourself to a week of “food heaven.” Cost varies $10 $35. 269-344-0795. www.kalamazoorestaurantweek.com/

February 28 “Grey Zone” Education Series

Nominate your mother or maternal figure for our Mother’s Day contest!

Whether your mom is a fantastic cook, world-class chauffer, your biggest fan, or just a great support system, we want to hear about what makes

her special. We’re looking for mothers of all ages and walks of life; you've got a inspiring maternal figure, we want to know about her.

The winner will be honored in our May edition.

Submissions will be accepted until March 15th and can be sent to editor@wlskazoo.com

am

00 pm

SPRING JOB FAIR!

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SOUTHWEST MICHIGAN

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KALAMAZOO COUNTY EXPO CENTER

March 1 Art Hop

Various Locations throughout Downtown Kalamazoo. 5 – 9 pm.

Art Hop is a free event that features new art exhibits in a fun, casual atmosphere. Numerous galleries and businesses in the downtown area host a variety of artwork. Free. 269342-5059. www.kalamazooarts.com

Kalamazoo State Theatre. 8 – 10 pm. You know magic when you see it, touch it, or hear it. You’ll instantly recognize the sensation on Ben Rector’s appropriately titled seventh full-length offering, Magic. The Oklahoma-born and Nashville-based singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist uncovers that feeling within 13 anthems equally rooted in whimsical nostalgia and excitement for the future. $29.50 - $45. 269345-6500. www.kazoostate.com

March 1 – 2 Women’s LifeStyle Expo!

Kalamazoo County Expo Center. Fri. 12 – 6 pm, and Sat. 9 am – 4 pm.

Join us for this annual two-day extravaganza created for women by women. The Women’s Lifestyle Expo is Kalamazoo County’s premier event created for women by women. The Expo features businesses, communities, artists, workshops and celebrities from the Greater Kalamazoo area. 269-4889780. www.womenslifestylekazooexpo.com

KALAMAZOO HAPPENINGS

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JOINS US THURSDAY, MARCH 14TH

North Woods Village Memory Care, 6203 Stadium Drive. 4 – 6 pm. Do I sell Mom’s home? What do I do with the proceeds of home if I do?

Can Mom afford assisted living if I do sell? Zach Alkhamis,CRPC,CFS will show you your options and what that decision may look like financially if you do sell your home.

Complimentary Hors d’oeuvres will be served. RSVP by calling 269-397-2200

March 1 Ben Rector WSG Josie Dunne

OUR NEXT EVENT DATE: Tues, Feb 12 TIME: 5:30p – 8:00p WHERE: Fetzer Center – WMU COST: $25.00 Register no later than 2/6/19 by 8pm at: tinyurl. com/y6u83pn2

Please join us for the February MASTERMIND Dinner. Our program will focus on pampering yourself.

The January MASTERMIND luncheon focused on lifetime women’s health. Members and guests were treated to an exceptional program given

by Kathy Berglund PT, DSc, FAAOMPT, COMT, OCS, ATC. The meeting was sponsored

by Old National Bank.

2019

For all Job Fair inquiries, please contact Kelly Troff at Kelly.troff@townsquaremedia.com

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February 2019

WomensLifeStyleKazoo.com

Leading Men's & Women's Specialty Store 1028 East Cork | www.Libins.com (269) 381-0746

LawtonRidgeWinery.com (269) 372-9463

Here’s your connection to the local businesses we know you love to support. Independent businesses & the people they serve are what makes our community so strong.

Golden Star Realty, Inc. - Dawn Beltz (269) 720-1682

Dawn Beltz www.dawnbeltz.com (269) 720-1682

ForensicFluids.com (269) 492-7700

www.pestprosmi.com (269) 993-0051

LawtonRidgeWinery.com (269) 372-9463

www.Libins.com (269) 381-0746

269-344-2860

Sawall Health Foods sawallhf.com

www.leesadventuresports.com 311 W. Kilgore, Portage Kazoo Books kazoobooks.com Chocola-Tea.com 7642 S. Westnedge, Portage

NANCY M. SIMMONS, REALTOR ®

www.douglasandson.com

Kalamazoo (2 Locations) mackenziesbakery.com

www.Hardings.com (269) 685-5883

nancysimmons@kw.com 269-342-2618

www.looksharponline.com 269-657-5646

Comensolis.com (269) 345-6755

www.printmill.com (269) 382-0428 Ad Shop, Etc. (269) 207-0103

Midwest Business Exchange (269) 344-8800

jack@UnitedRental.biz (269) 324-0999 Curves | Portage Kalamazoo Wings 269-324-3312 Kwings.com theAmplePantry.com (269) 375-8300 www.WMUK.org 102.1 FM www.boatyardbrewing.com

www.kzooacupuncture.com (269) 873-4600 vashoesfit.com

SHOES THAT FIT YOUR LIFE K A L A M A Z O O • P O R TA G E • G R A N D R A P I D S • S T. J O S E P H

(269) 226-0300

A/C, HEATING & COOLING SOLUTIONS www.mattawanmechanical.com

269-668-5415

www.mattawanmechanical.com RomenceGardensonline.com (269) 668-5415 9660 Shaver Rd. Portage

theBetterWorldBuilders.com (269) 383-7862

fb.com/DiscoveryShopKalamazoo (269) 345-0661

12000 N US 131 Hwy, Schoolcraft

V & A Bootery vabootery.com

WomensLifeStyleKazoo.com (269) 569-1647

www.douglasandson.com 269-344-2860