Go Red for Women - February 2020 by Moxie Magazine

0 EE 202 FR RY

UA BR FE Essential • Entertaining • Enlightening WomensLifeStyleKazoo.com

Sunday, Feb. 16 10am - 3pm Radisson Plaza Hotel Join us for a day of FREE family fun!

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If you’ve just found out you’re pregnant, come see us. We deliver! We specialize in women’s health and pregnancy care. Having good health while you’re pregnant is vitally important. It comes with a healthy diet, plenty of exercise, and frequent visits to a reliable, knowledgable doctor. OB-GYN, P.C. has been working with patients in the greater Kalamazoo area since the 1930s. Our practice includes 6 physicians and 3 nurse practitioners. Not only will we take care of you, we will include the other important people in your life, too. Our office is conveniently located just off US 131 on 11th St. Please visit our website for more detailed information.

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OB-GYN, P.C. 269.345.6197 2854 S 11th St Kalamazoo, MI www.obgynpc.com

FROMTHEPUBLISHER

ebruary is here and we are painting the town RED! You’ve got to have heart and this edition is full of it. From heart health to romantic Valentine’s Day date ideas to meeting women who are the heart of our community, we have something for everyone to enjoy. Every February, Women’s LifeStyle of Southwest Michigan proudly partners with the American Heart Association to promote their Go Red for Women campaign. It is a rather sobering statistic, but heart disease is the number one killer of women and one out of every three deaths is attributed to heart disease. Let me state that in another way, approximately one woman dies every minute due to heart disease. In this edition we will share the stories of three women and a little girl who are amazing survivors.

In addition, we have several ideas for a romantic Valentine’s Day celebration. Explore the culinary delights at Four Roses Café with our food writer Elizabeth. Join the Kalamazoo Foodie, Rachel, as she gives us some wonderful suggestions for spending Valentine’s Day in downtown Kalamazoo. If you aren’t up for a night on the town, relax at home and whip up one of our delicious recipes. If you have known me for any length of time, you know that I am passionate about supporting the women and girls of our

February 2020

community. In this edition, we proudly feature a group of extremely generous, professional African American women known as Tendaji—a Swahili word which means “to get it done”—and they are really getting it done in the community. We also proudly feature an entire section devoted to the Girl Scout Cookie Bake-off and let our readers know what they can do to help support this amazing organization.

I hope you enjoy reading the February magazine as much as I have enjoyed putting it together. Make sure to join us for the Kzoo Baby & Family Expo on February 16th and mark your calendars because the 12th Annual Women’s Expo is right around the corner on March 6th & 7th. I promise this year’s Women’s Expo will be something to remember and I hope to see each one of you there. Be good to yourself, be good to others and always try to spread love wherever you go. LOTS OF LOVE,

Heather * Our apologies to General Manager of A1 Printing, Jake Francisco. We misidentified him in the feature article last month.

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The People Who Make It Happen... PUBLISHER:

Heather Dombos hdombos@wlskazoo.com

EDITOR:

Emily Reed ereed@wlskazoo.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS: Emily Betros Elizabeth Precopio Ashley Carter-Youngblood Kelly Duggan Rachel Kirtley Heidi McCrary Emily Reed Jenny Opdycke Dr. Marti Peters-Sparling

COMMUNITY RELATIONS: Keshia Dickason kdickason@wlskazoo.com

February 2020

LIFE

12 Look Who’s Talking: Betty Dennis, PhD, Amy Swager; Emery’s Story 16 Go Red for Women 20 Why I Stand with This Woman 22 The Plague of Perfectionism 24 With a Heavy Heart 25 Working from Home 26 The Tendaji Giving Circle 28 Valentine’s Day in Kalamazoo 38 Ways to Treasure a Loved One’s Cremated Remains

HEALTH & FITNESS

ACCOUNT REPRESENTATIVES: Ruth Ann Dibert radibert@wlskazoo.com Whitney Bast wbast@wlskzoo.com Holly Jones hjones@wlskazoo.com

8 The Seven Best Doctors 10 You’re So Lucky to Be Healthy Part 2 18 What is Holistic Medicine & Direct Primary Care 30 How to Love Your Body 36 Tips to Prevent Stroke 39 The Ugly Truth About Vaping

LAYOUT & DESIGN:

Alicia Pauwels apauwels@wlskazoo.com

PHOTOGRAPHY:

Grace Photography gracephoto.com

ADMINISTRATIVE:

Sue Hurst shurst@wlskazoo.com

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Women’s LifeStyle of Southwest MI P. O. Box 2284 Portage, MI 49081-2284

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info@wlskazoo.com editor@wlskazoo.com sales@wlskazoo.com

WEBSITES:

WomensLifeStyleKazoo.com WomensLifeStyleKazooExpo.com KzooFamilyExpo.com WLSKmastermind.com

FOOD & DRINK

6 Restaurant Review: Four Roses 32 Girl Scout Cookie Bake-off 40 Recipes - Mary Me Chicken - Baked Alaska

HOME & GARDEN

27 In the Market for a Home This Spring?

COMMUNITY NEWS & HAPPENINGS 42 Reader’s Lounge 43 Calendar

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HQ Salon & Spa 401 W Kilgore Rd, Portage www.hqsalonandspa.com

Grace Photography www.gracephoto.com 269-668-6700

R&R Weddings and Events 343 Prairie St, Vicksburg rrweddingsandevents.com

February 2020

RESTAURANT REVIEW

663 North 10th Street • Plainwell, MI 49080 • 269.685.1077 • fourrosescafe.com

Four Roses in Plainwell has been at the top of my “must go to” list for a long time now. I was so excited to finally make the trip!

Glancing at their website, I saw that they don’t take reservations unless you have a party of six or more, but I was able to use the Yelp app and check in and get in line before I even left my house. The app was user friendly, telling me what time to show up and how many people were ahead of me. I went on a Saturday night and it was crazy busy. I showed up early, meeting my friend there, hoping to get lucky and get right to a table. The hostess explained there were still 14 parties ahead of us, so we went and got a drink at the bar. We ended up finding some chairs there, so we cancelled our table and ate our meal at the large bar. The menu had a variety of options and prices. It showed entrees for as little as $16 and as high as $70. There were options of fish, steaks, chickens and pastas, all sounding delicious! My friend and I wanted to do a starter of their WHITEFISH CAKES to share. The plate came with two large cakes with a creamy sauce swirled on top and garnished with a lemon. These were so big and delicious! They could have easily been a full meal. Neither my friend nor I finished a whole one, as we wanted to save room for the remainder of our course. For our entrees, my friend went with the MUSHROOM LASAGNA and I went with the

FILET MIGNON WITH BEARNAISE BUTTER. 6

February 2020

The amount of food on both plates was impressive. The lasagna was large and served with a medley of vegetables that included zucchini and squash. The mushrooms inside the lasagna were to die for! The vegetables tasted fresh and were perfectly cooked. My filet was cooked to a perfect medium rare. Filets are typically pretty small, but this was one of the larger ones I had seen. It also came with the same vegetables in addition to some fingerling potatoes. The potatoes looked plain but tasted absolutely amazing. For the $32 price tag, it was a large amount of food, especially for a filet. Next came dessert, which is what I have heard most about from Four Roses. The server brought over a chalkboard with a huge list of desserts. I noticed there were several that had been erased. I’m assuming it’s because they had run out and wish I could have seen what I was missing out on! My friend spotted the ICEBOX LEMON PIE and made her choice. For myself, I went with the PEANUT BUTTER BROWNIE

CHEESECAKE.

We both loved the Icebox Lemon Pie. It was tart and a little frozen, making a perfect combination for icy lemon goodness. My cheesecake was so decadent and rich! I was only able to eat a few bites, but I was also super stuffed from my large meal. I took the rest home to my husband who gobbled it up quickly.

I will definitely go back to Four Roses. The food was absolutely amazing. They had large portions and quality ingredients. The staff was super helpful and attentive. It’s a large space, but there was plenty of staff that covered it well. With it being a large space, the only negative is that, at times, it got loud with chatter and was hard to hear my friend in conversation. However, I would bet it’s not always that busy, especially during the week. Four Roses would make a perfect Valentine’s Day date, or even a Galentine’s Day with some of your friends!

HOURS: TUESDAY THRU FRIDAY 11AM-9PM (KITCHEN CLOSES FROM 3PM-5PM)

SATURDAY 4PM-9PM

About Four Roses Cafe Four Roses Cafe in Plainwell, MI is owned & operated by Tom and Jan Rose. A casual, fine dining cafe with a focus on fresh, flavorful dishes. The menu changes daily and will be determined by what is available in local markets each day. We strive to use local farmers and vendors whenever possible and have an emphasis on fresh, sustainable products. Elizabeth Precopio 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

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Best Seven Doctors

AH-CHOOO! Hack, cough, sneeze, wheeeeezzzzee! Oh no. It’s cold and flu season! Doesn’t it always seem to be cold and flu season? Those darned viruses never seem to go away! Are you doomed to succumb to the dreaded plague du jour? Not necessarily. Here’s some good advice to help you and your family stay healthy.

1. SUNSHINE.

In Michigan, this one may be hard to come by this time of year. However, getting some time outside every day can bolster your health and well-being. All living things need the sun to grow and thrive— human beings are no exception. Ideally, a minimum of 20 minutes outside in natural light each day can help your body’s circadian rhythm stay balanced which translates into better sleep, better immunity, and better mood.

2. AIR.

Breathing is more than just a sign of life; breathing exercises can be a powerful medicine. Who isn’t stressed these days? When human beings are stressed, we breathe shallow, fast and irregular. This perpetuates a sense of anxiety and leads to metabolic imbalance. Over time, chronic stress affects the immune system and leads to opportunistic infections like colds and the flu. By practicing a breathing exercise like four-seven-eight breathing, you can send a message of safety and well-being to your body. Inhale through the nose for four counts, hold the breath for seven counts and exhale slowly from the mouth for eight counts. Strive to complete four rounds of this breathing exercise twice daily for optimum results.

3. EXERCISE.

A moderate, individualized exercise program can make a HUGE difference in a person’s resilience; it should be appropriate for each person’s unique needs and wellness goals. Moderate exercise like walking can improve circulation, blood pressure, blood sugars, immune function, sleep quality and mood! Please consult with your health care provider before starting an exercise program.

4. WATER.

The human body is approximately 60% water and, on average, has the same salt concentration

February 2020

as the ocean. Therefore, saltwater can be very useful to the healing process. Gargling saltwater or doing saline sinus rinses three to five times daily can help soothe sore throats and open up blocked sinuses and ears. Bone broth, a.k.a. homemade chicken soup, helps support prevention AND recovery during cold and flu season! The warm, salty broth soothes a sore throat while the electrolytes in the broth help to bolster blood pressure variability and lightheadedness that occur with changes in position when ill. When broth is made from bones, it’s full of collagen protein from bone marrow. Collagen is one of the building blocks of cellular repair, so the body’s immune system can repair inflammatory damage from the infection. It also feeds bacteria to the gut, where the majority of antibodies are made. Antibodies tag viruses as “invaders” so the immune system can clear the infection and catch it sooner the next time. Let’s not forget about handwashing to prevent the spread of illness too! Wash or use hand sanitizer after coughing, sneezing, blowing your nose, using the bathroom, after direct contact with an ill loved one, and before food preparation/eating.

5. DIET.

Food can be medicine. In general terms, strive to eat whole foods in minimally processed forms. With animal products and produce, quality matters, so look for organic, local and sustainably raised whenever possible. The more you invest in quality food, the better your body will perform. In addition, try to avoid dairy products when you’re congested because it will make the body generate more mucus. Raw honey has medicinal qualities too—the more local the better. Persons with seasonal allergies often find that raw honey can reduce their symptoms because it appears to carry substrates that act like antihistamines. Honey has anti-viral and anti-bacterial properties and is a natural cough suppressant. Exercise caution ingesting honey if you or a family member has a true bee allergy. Honey is not appropriate for children under the age of one year.

6. REST.

Most people don’t get enough rest, but that can’t be ignored forever.

Burning the candle at both ends and powering through illness doesn’t end well. The illness always wins. It isn’t just being in the wrong place at the wrong time, it’s a communication from the body that something is out of balance. Two days of solid rest with extra fluids can turn around most colds and flus. However, more than 90% of all upper respiratory infections are viruses which do not respond to antibiotics because they mutate as part of their reproductive process. Western medicine only has a handful of antiviral drugs and none of them treat the common cold. When you have a virus, they come on hard and fast, get worse at night and can include fever, body aches, yellow mucus, cough, sore throat, sinus congestion and ear pain. A typical virus lasts 10-14 days, but the first seven days are the worst. Around day seven, you can often tell if your body is improving or not. Without getting adequate rest, these illnesses can drag on for weeks and often settle into secondary bacterial infections like ear infections, sinus infections or even pneumonia. If your symptoms aren’t improving after five to seven days, contact your health care provider to be evaluated. There are no shortcuts to recovery. Please don’t bring your illness to work, school or community centers and talk with your health care provider about getting the necessary documentation to stay home and go to bed.

7. LAUGHTER.

Joy is good for you—body, mind and spirit. Laughter improves immune function, decreases the perception of pain, and builds resilience. Smile more and laugh more. Choose to focus on what makes you happy. When you can invest in your well-being and can surround yourself with people that bring you happiness, you’ll be healthier. No office visit needed.

Homemade Chicken Bone Broth Ingredients:

• Rotisserie chicken carcass • 1 tsp poultry seasoning • Water • ½-1 tsp salt (to taste) or 1 cube chicken bouillon • Pepper to taste • Large Pot • ½ tsp apple cider vinegar Place chicken carcass in large pot. Cover carcass with water and add apple cider vinegar. Bring contents to a boil. Cover pot with a lid and reduce heat to medium low. Let simmer 1-4 hours. Strain broth through a fine sieve to catch any small bones. Add salt or bouillon and pepper to taste. Enjoy! Jenny Opdycke, PA-C has been practicing medicine for more than 16 years. Her specialties include holistic wellness, anxiety/depression, trauma recovery and intuitive, low carb eating strategies that promote self-awareness and healing. She loves spending time with her twin girls, friends, and fur babies. More info at www.integratedhealthmatters.com.

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February 2020

t y o k B c e u H L e o a S l e th y r ’ u

PART 2

I consult with a lot of people about their health. My primary goal is to help individuals understand clearly that doing as many of the “right” things for their body as often as possible is comparable to having a “prevention” insurance policy in force. Being healthy doesn’t just “happen” and it has nothing to do with being “lucky”; but it does have a lot to do with being aware of your body—physically, emotionally, mentally and spiritually—and then taking action to address whatever challenge the body is experiencing. Many people blame their genetics for their less-than-stellar health. Genetics definitely play a role in our health, but not as much as we have been told that it does. Research over the past ten plus years tells us that genetics account for less than 10 – 15% (some research suggests even less!) of our individual health condition. Everything else that happens to our body, 85–90%, is directly attributable to our lifestyle and the daily choices we make relative to our health.

LET ME REPEAT THAT AGAIN: OUR HEALTH IS PRIMARILY A DIRECT RESULT OF THE DECISIONS WE MAKE, CONSCIOUSLY OR UNCONSCIOUSLY, EVERY DAY. This includes what we eat, what we drink, how active we are, how much we exercise, what kinds of chemicals we are exposed to, the quality of air we breathe, how much

February 2020

quality water we drink, how much sleep we get, what kinds of quality supplements we take, how we care for our skin, the people in our lives (are they positive or negative?), the level of stress we cause ourselves and are exposed to, etc. Since there is always a “bottom line” to everything, let me get to the bottom line relative to our health. Just like freedom isn’t free, being healthy isn’t free either. It costs money to be healthy. And while money is a concern for all of us, it costs a whole lot more to be sick! Not to mention how it affects everyone and everything else around us. Please remember: It costs money to be healthy! It is my opinion that everyone should have a wellness line in their budget. If you don’t have one, you can start today! Hopefully this occurs before there are health challenges. I can usually tell how much a person values their health by how they treat their body. While it may be true—or at least they believe it to be true—that they cannot afford to do a lot of healthy things, it is simply that their health isn’t a priority yet. Maybe they cannot afford to do everything necessary, but they can do something. We all can do something, and something is a start. I can almost guarantee you that if they become ill, they will be forced to find the money to invest in their health just to get it back, assuming they can get it back. And whether it is the person with the health problem that is paying the bills, the insurance

company, a combination of both or paying some other way, someone is paying. It is not free. Whether it is staying well or whether it is getting well, it costs money. The latter costs a whole lot more. We are all going to age chronologically, but how are we going to age biologically? Even those of us who listen to our body are going to eventually decline in health; it is the circle of life. The question is, what kind of quality of life do we want as we age? What is your answer? I know what the answer is for me: I want the best health I can get, for as long as I can get it. I will do whatever it takes, even if it means rearranging my budget, to make it happen. We have one body and it holds us accountable for what we do to it. A healthy body is not because of luck, it is because of us and what we decide to do or not do, followed up with the appropriate actions. Whether or not you choose to do anything, your body will be talking to you; it is talking to you right now. I hope you are listening because, I promise, it will be worth it. Jacque Jennings-Carter is an anti-aging specialist and international business developer. Her passions are many and all center around helping others. Her greatest passion is educating others about living healthy lives. Additionally, she loves singing, music, the arts, horses, tennis, food, wine/ champagne, traveling and having fun.

» R ead PART 1 of You’re So Lucky to Be Healthy in the January edition

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February 2020

G O R ED F O LOOK WHO'S TALKING

Betty D ennis, PH.D

stroke can change a life in a matter of moments. What happens when a stroke is at the intersection of your work and your health?

Meet Betty Dennis, Ph.D. She is a professor at Western Michigan University’s Interdisciplinary Health Services. She teaches in the area of healthcare services and sciences with an emphasis on diversity and inclusion, and health determinants. Her students will be working with patients upon graduation. Imagine what her classroom has been like since her stroke recovery began. “I never realized I would be both a professor and patient to my students studying occupational therapy, physical therapy, nursing and physician assistant,” said Dr. Dennis. “They can feel my arm and the spasticity (muscles that are tight, stiff or continuously contracted). They can listen to my daily challenges. I’m teaching from a real-life situation.” Her stroke happened in August of 2014 when she went to a meeting at her church in Kalamazoo and her arm gave out. It fell limp. “I thought to myself that this is not right,” recalls Dr. Dennis. “I told the people with me that I was having a stroke and to call 9-1-1.” Looking back, she doesn’t think she had many risk factors, although she concedes that she was in a high-pressure position. She had

Not all strokes can be prevented, but up to 80 percent may be by not smoking, making healthy food choices, getting enough physical activity, maintaining a healthy weight, and treating conditions such as high blood sugar, high cholesterol and high blood pressure. Even if you have a condition that puts you at high risk like uncontrolled high blood pressure, diabetes or AFib, you may reduce your risk with the choices you make each day. Knowing the common warning signs and what to do in a stroke emergency may help you save a life or reduce disability. To remember the stroke warning signs, remember the acronym F.A.S.T.

February 2020

a severe headache the night before, and that might have been her strongest indicator. “There was a demanding atmosphere at work back then,” Dennis says. “I thought I was handling it.” She was a married mother of three who showed no symptoms of heart disease and her blood pressure readings were normal when she visited the doctor’s office. What was in Dr. Dennis’ favor was that she was able to call for help immediately. She went through intensive rehabilitation at Ascension Borgess Medical Center. This was followed by outpatient therapy and working out daily at the Living Well Fitness Center. She also had her strong faith and a family that never left her side day or night. “I’m still working out,’” she says. “It takes time to heal. My speech has really improved enough so that I can be in the classroom, and there are times when I still have to concentrate on my enunciation. I have partial paralysis on my right side, and I have a severe limp and trouble with my right hand.” Dennis is resolute in her faith to live a purposeful life even with these physical challenges. “Being educated about stroke symptoms is so important,” Dennis says. “It’s also important to make exercise a part of your daily lifestyle, and not just aerobic, but also strengthening.” Go Red for Women touches on both heart disease and stroke as cardiovascular issues in women. The American Heart Association launched the effort in 2004 to educate women that these are their No. 1 and No. 5 health issues. Dennis now shares her story with everyone who will listen. Her journey of recovery from stroke is not one she would have chosen, but she says it has created a mission—to educate people, especially her students, to know symptoms and stay strong and healthy. “Stroke can happen to anyone,” Dennis says. “I want people to listen to their bodies. It can save a life.”

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OR WOM EN O

Amy Swager

n February 7, Amy Swager will wear red for National Wear Red Day. At the end of the day when you change out of your red clothing, Amy knows she cannot stop supporting the cause because she has heart disease that continues every day.

National Wear Red Day is a day that the American Heart Association initiated in observance of Go Red for Women— an effort to educate women about their No. 1 health threat: heart disease. Since her heart stopped in December of 2008, Amy has used her ‘extra’ time to educate others. She has volunteered for years for the American Heart Association’s Go Red for Women and Heart Walk events. She teaches Hands-Only CPR, often at the Climax-Scotts High School, so that graduating seniors will meet the state mandate for CPR instruction. She also volunteers for a group called WomenHeart. And, in December 2018, her family held a rebirthday party to celebrate the extra ten years she has lived, inviting her loved ones and those in her small community who saved her life. It started when Amy Swager, a mother of seven, was at the Trilogy Salon and Spa in Climax, MI setting up for an event the next day. She wasn’t feeling well. Her sister, Cosmetologist Colleen Barnett, was one of the first individuals to start CPR when Amy collapsed. Others called 9-1-1 and the family members nearby. Swager’s husband arrived and then their mother, Pat Thompson, a nurse practitioner, arrived three minutes later and took over CPR until help arrived. The first responders were people that Amy had known all her life and were friends with. Swager was revived with an automated external defibrillator (AED) and transported to Ascension Borgess Medical Center where a pacemaker was implanted a few days later. “I died for a little bit, but I’m feeling much better now,” said Swager, who is known for her wit and ability to find humor in most situations. “Trilogy really is a full-service salon. They’ll do your massage, they do your nails, they’ll do

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your hair, and your heart.”

LOOK WHO'S TALKING

they’ll jump-start

Eleven years later, Swager and her medical team are still searching for answers. It’s unknown why her heart occasionally skips a beat. They do know that she creates adrenaline the way all of us do when something startles us or causes stress, but Swager’s body can’t dissipate the adrenaline. The rapid heartbeat associated with an adrenaline rush can lead to a cardiac overload. Swager is on her second medical device, now an automated implanted cardio defibrillator, which can pace her heart beats and deliver a shock if it needs to restart her heart. These devices currently last about ten years. There are medications that can help control arrythmia, but Swager’s body has not reacted to these medications as well as others have. “This is why they call it ‘practicing medicine’. Different medications work differently on people,” she said. As she searches for the right combination for her body, Swager wants everyone to learn CPR. “No one should have to do CPR on a family member. But because my sister and mom knew how, they were able to keep the oxygen in my body moving to my brain until the firefighters arrived with an AED to shock my heart back into rhythm. Those two techniques together are what can save lives,” said Swager. About 70 percent of out-of-hospital cardiac arrests happen in homes according to the

American Heart Association. If you need to give CPR in an emergency, you will most likely be trying to save the life of someone you love—a child, a spouse, a parent or a friend. CPR, especially if performed immediately, can triple a cardiac arrest victim’s chance of survival. Hands-Only CPR has just two easy steps, performed in this order: call 9-1-1 if you see a teen or adult suddenly collapse, then push hard and fast in the center of the chest. Now celebrating an extra 11 years of life, Swager notes that she is still able to parent her

children and meet her grandchildren. She is active in her church and now works as an aid at the Climax-Scotts Elementary School and interacts daily with young students who weren’t alive at the time of her sudden cardiac arrest. “It’s been a difficult journey. Dying was easy, but the recovery and healing is still going on to this day. I have heart disease every day, and that lasts way beyond National Wear Red Day,” said Swager. If you are interested in learning CPR, go to Heart.org/CPR for online instruction or to locate a course.

February 2020

LOOK WHO'S TALKING Go Red for Women (cont.)

s with most couples, when Samantha and Justin Breithaupt found out they were pregnant, they were elated! A new addition to the family is something they were excitedly looking forward to. However, concerns arose at their 12week ultrasound. Doctors provided a nuchal fold scan to measure the translucent area at the back of Emery’s neck that can assess a baby’s risk of having Down Syndrome (DS), other chromosomal abnormalities, and major congenital heart problems. The doctors gave some unsettling news that Emery’s nuchal fold was a little thicker, concluding the possibility for Emery having DS. With DS., the official diagnosis would not be given until birth.

Emery's S tory

after realizing she could only breathe on her own for eight hours without a tube. Emery had a “floppy esophagus” that required a tracheotomy. While this worried them, after being told it would allow her to breathe on her own, it was evident that it was the right choice and less frightening. Emery’s heart surgery had to be postponed until she could develop a stable airway, but the tracheotomy would allow that to happen. On December 14, 2016, Emery had her tracheotomy surgery, gained strength, and had her successful heart surgery on January 9, 2017. With everything the family has been through, it’s not surprising that they are a familiar face in the community. Samantha, specifically, has used her experience to partner with Hope Story as an advocate that meets with doctors to discuss how to present the diagnosis and how to talk to families about DS. Working with Hope Story

While the diagnosis was a possibility, Samantha and Justin were bombarded with a list of “syndromes” that they studied carefully in preparation for her arrival with DS. While studying, they learned, too, that about 40%

has also allowed their family to bring bright life to new parents. While their

of children with DS have a heart condition. Samantha expressed that

the scariest part of DS is the health issues that come with it. Emery was given a 50% chance of survival, a nearly unbelievable statistic to an excited, expecting couple; Samantha expressed, “I just don’t want to lose the baby.” Emery’s birth required an emergency C-section where she was officially diagnosed with DS after a blood test. Emery was also given an echocardiogram that diagnosed her with Atrioventricular Septal Defect (AVSD), a congenital heart defect that consisted of two holes between the right and left chambers. This defect makes it so blood flows where it normally shouldn’t, the possibility of blood having lower amounts of oxygen, and potential extra blood flow to the lungs. The extra blood may lead to the heart overworking. Emery’s case consisted of a backflow of blood to the other side of the heart and surgery was necessary to repair it. While some cases require immediate surgery, Emery was fortunate to spend time at home to gain strength before the surgery

February 2020

six months later. Samantha and Justin were given a list of symptoms to watch including rapid breathing, turning blue, and extremities turning cold. Emery didn’t show these

symptoms, but around five months later she stopped eating and drinking where Justin and Samantha brought her to the hospital for malnourishment.

At five months, the family spent two weeks in the hospital where they discovered Emery had Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), an upper respiratory virus with cold-like symptoms, in addition to a collapsed lung from her heart overworking. The hospital gave Emery both a breathing and feeding tube, but this was not the end of their struggles as these conditions turned out to be more complicated. Emery was transferred to a different hospital where they spent the next three months receiving more treatments. The new hospital provided additional testing that confirmed RSV and diagnosed her with tracheobronchial malacia

family has definitely battled through struggles, Emery continues to grow strong, learn, and is doing great in therapy. Emery is due soon to have her tracheostomy cannula removed and her trachea repaired to create its own airway that will allow her to finally talk and laugh, something Samantha and Justin are eagerly looking the most forward to. Emery, especially, continues to be a bright face, happy smile, and bold personality for the community to enjoy and learn about. HOPE STORY IS A TEAM OF MEDICAL PROFESSIONALS AND STORYTELLERS. WE BELIEVE THAT STORIES HAVE THE ABILITY TO PROVIDE HOPE TO OTHERS AND CHANGE THE WORLD. AT OUR CORE, WE EXIST TO HELP PEOPLE LEARN TO TELL THEIR STORIES AND HELP THEM FIND OPPORTUNITIES TO SHARE THEM WITH PEOPLE THAT NEED TO HEAR THEM THE MOST. Learn more about.Hope Story at hopestory.org

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February 2020

Go Red for Women

This issue features women who are different ages and demographics but have one thing in common. All have various forms of heart disease or stroke. Heart disease is affecting our community at an alarming rate, especially our mothers, sisters and daughters. If every woman reading this magazine takes steps to learn about her risk factors, stays physically active, eats a hearthealthy diet and sees her health care provider, we will begin to see a positive impact in the disparities of heart disease and stroke. This is the message of the Go Red for Women movement from the American Heart Association.

WHY RED?

Friday, February 7, has been designated “National Wear Red Day for Women.” Red is the American Heart Association’s color for women and heart disease.

February 2020

“We need a bold color like red to draw attention to heart disease, which is a woman’s greatest health threat,” said Cindy Bouma, communications director for the American Heart Association in West Michigan. “The association is encouraging everyone to wear red — such as a red dress, shirt, hat or other item in support of all women who have been touched by heart disease or stroke.” Other events such as the Go Red for Women Luncheon are scheduled in February. In Southwest Michigan, the event will be on February 7 at the Delta Marriott Conference Center. Tickets are available at Heart.org/ KalamazooGoRed.

WHAT ARE SOME OF THE KEY MESSAGES OF GO RED FOR WOMEN?

Cardiovascular diseases kill more women than all forms of cancer combined, but 80% of cardiac events in women may be prevented

if women made the right choices for their hearts involving diet, exercise and abstinence from smoking. Know the warning signs so you can get help right away, either for yourself or someone close to you. Some heart attacks are sudden and intense, and no one doubts what’s happening. But most heart attacks start slowly, with mild pain or discomfort. Often people aren’t sure what’s wrong and wait too long before getting help.

SIGNS THAT CAN MEAN A HEART ATTACK IS HAPPENING: • Uncomfortable pressure, squeezing, fullness or pain in the center of your chest. It lasts more than a few minutes, or goes away and comes back.

• Pain or discomfort in one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw or stomach. • Shortness of breath with or without chest discomfort.

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• Other signs such as breaking out in a cold sweat, nausea or lightheadedness. • As with men, women’s most common heart attack symptom is chest pain or discomfort. But women are somewhat more likely than men to experience some of the other common symptoms, particularly shortness of breath, nausea/vomiting and back or jaw pain. If you have any of these signs, don’t wait! Call 911. Get to a hospital right away. If you or someone you’re with has chest discomfort, especially with one or more of the other signs, don’t wait longer than a few minutes (no more than five) before calling for help.

WHAT ABOUT A STROKE?

Knowing the common stroke warning signs and what to do in a stroke emergency may help you save a life or reduce disability. To remember the stroke warning signs, remember the acronym F.A.S.T.: Face Drooping - Does one side of the face droop or is it numb? Ask the person to smile. Is the person’s smile uneven?

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Arm Weakness - Is one arm weak or numb? Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward? Speech Difficulty - Is speech slurred? Is the person unable to speak or hard to understand? Ask the person to repeat a simple sentence, like “The sky is blue.” Time to Call 9-1-1 - If someone shows any of these symptoms, even if the symptoms go away, call 9-1-1 and get to a hospital immediately. Check the time so you’ll know when the first symptoms appeared. The faster stroke is treated, the more likely the patient is to recover. As Go Red for Women looks to the future, we know that it’s no longer just about wearing red. It’s about all women making a commitment to stand together with Go Red for Women and take charge of their own heart health. LEARN MORE AT GOREDFORWOMEN.ORG. Post pictures of you going red to social media using the hashtag #GoRedKzoo.

Let s’ Unite Go Red for Women Luncheon

Friday, February 7 Delta Marriott Conference Center 2747 S 11th St, Kalamazoo

10:30a – 11:50a

Networking & Purse Auction

12:00p – 1:30p

Luncheon Program For more information on volunteering, sponsorship or attending the Go Red for Women Luncheon, please contact the Go Red Team by email at Dawn.Worthington@heart.org

February 2020

What is

HOLISTIC MEDICINE & DIRECT PRIMARY CARE?

There are many different terms available when people describe the type of healthcare they want: holistic, homeopathic, naturopathic, alternative, complementary, traditional, etc. My colleague and I recently opened a holistic medical practice in Kalamazoo, and we came to realize that everyone has a different idea of what that means. According to Merriam-Webster, holistic means “relating to or concerned with wholes or with complete systems rather than with the analysis of, treatment of, or dissection into parts.” Holistic medicine, then, means treating the whole person by taking into consideration the medical aspects of the treatment alongside the social, emotional, mental, and spiritual aspects. A holistic provider takes the time to consider what underlying emotions might be contributing to disease, what social issues are preventing healing, and what spiritual needs have yet been unmet. Most problems do not have an easy solution and traditional medicine is only part of the answer. Of course, we do prescribe medicine when it is appropriate. Traditional medicine has its place. There are times when an antibiotic is the only thing that can clear an infection, or surgery may be necessary. Vaccines and screening tests like mammograms and colonoscopies are important ways primary care providers help to prevent and catch disease early. These are all things that we as holistic providers use as well. For those who have doubts about some aspects of traditional medicine, we are open and willing to engage in discussion about these things. But what about more complicated problems like diabetes, heart disease, or depression? There are appropriate medications, but there are often underlying issues that these medications don’t address! If a person with diabetes cannot afford fresh fruits and vegetables, or doesn’t know how to cook a healthy meal, they may not get their blood

February 2020

sugars under control. A heart attack damages the heart, but many patients end up with depression as well. If medication is prescribed for the heart condition, but no one asks about the emotional effects of a heart attack, the person will suffer more. Holistic medicine sees the patient as a person and not just as a disease.

AS HOLISTIC PROVIDERS, WE USE MANY ALTERNATIVE THERAPIES AS TREATMENT:

MINDFULNESS TECHNIQUES– focusing

on the present moment while also maintaining a non-judgmental awareness of our emotions and bodily sensations can help relieve stress, anxiety, and depression. These techniques can even help curtail smoking, overeating and other addictions.

ACUPUNCTURE– there is evidence that

acupuncture can help relieve chronic pain, cancer pain, cancer treatment side effects, migraines, hot flashes, and possibly help with smoking cessation.

MASSAGE THERAPY– this is helpful for

chronic back pain, cancer pain, fibromyalgia, headaches, and stress reduction as well.

YOGA– studies have shown many benefits

from yoga including stress relief, weight loss, pain relief, relief of menopause symptoms, and even smoking cessation.

HYPNOTHERAPY– this helps with hot

flashes, IBS, procedure pain, anxiety, and much more. We see holistic medicine as a blend of traditional and alternative medical therapies and try to make the best use of all options. I’m guessing for many this sounds like the way medicine should be. Am I suggesting that traditional medical providers don’t care about their patients? Of course not. I’m not trying to insult the wonderful providers out there who really do care and are doing their

best. The difficult part is finding the time to ask all the right questions, to listen carefully, and to explore all the options. The current model of healthcare makes that very difficult! Often, providers only have 5-10 minutes with a patient in the traditional insurance-based model. That’s why at SWMI Health Matters we’ve chosen a Direct Primary Care model which allows us to take on fewer patients, spend the time needed with our patients, and, therefore, be holistic. The Direct Primary Care model charges a monthly membership fee, which is not insurance, but covers anything we can do in the office – wellness visits, sick visits, medication management, chronic disease management, and some basic tests like a strep throat test or urinalysis. For people who have insurance, they can still use it for their labs, medications, referrals, hospital visits, etc. For those without insurance, we are able to provide discounted medications and lab testing. Again, with this model we are able to keep our patient numbers and costs low which allow us to spend time with patients in addressing all their needs; we have extended office visit times of 30 to 90 minutes. We offer easy access to providers by cell phone, email, and text; this also includes same-day or next-day appointments. Other benefits include discounted classes in nutrition, yoga, meditation, stress reduction, and others offered by our staff.

CHECK US OUT @ INTEGRATEDHEALTHMATTERS.COM! Marti Peters-Sparling, MD is a board certified Family Medicine physician and co-owner of an integrative Direct Primary Care wellness center, SWMI Health Matters. She has experience in all aspects of Family Medicine including preventative care, chronic disease management, meditation, and mindfulness. Dr PetersSparling seeks to meet her patients wherever they are, without judgement or bias.

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February 2020

O WHY I STAND WITH THIS WOMAN… BY HEIDI MCCRARY

OPRAH WINFREY

I GET IT, SHE’S POLARIZING.

This is often the case for anyone who regularly voices their opinion on hot-topic matters of the day and anything falling within earshot of the political arena. I have friends on both ends of the political spectrum who wish she’d keep her opinions to herself and just go away. You know, “You’re way past your fifteen minutes of fame expiration date. Go buy an island and learn how to make frozen daiquiris.” But that’s not how she rolls. She has a voice, and she uses it for good—helping others who may be trapped in a situation of not being able to speak their mind and need to be heard. Oprah Winfrey has that voice. She also has great wealth that has allowed her the opportunity and luxury to help underprivileged children in Chicago, previously uneducated girls in Africa, and now, the multitude of women and girls who have had little or no voice in the music industry. “I lost respect for Oprah back in the 80s,” a female friend of mine said recently, “when she was telling people how to raise children that she, herself, never had.” While I understand

February 2020

where my friend is coming from, I cannot agree with this logic. While we cannot literally experience all that life has to offer us, surely we can have an opinion on matters that do not affect us directly. Sadly, this happens every day in the political system as men in government positions have their say on women’s issues.

After 25 years hosting the Oprah Winfrey Show, which aired daily in nearly every market across the country, Winfrey taped over 4,500 episodes. That’s 4,500 HOURS! It is inevitable that she ticked off virtually everyone at some point. Honestly, if my words were recorded over the course of 25 years and 4,500 hours, the world would have documented proof of just how inaccurate and insensitive I can be too. Serving as Executive Producer, Winfrey is currently part of a team creating a documentary that shines a spotlight on the issue of sexual assault in the music industry that’s set to debut on Apple Plus this year. According to the Los Angeles Times, the film is about “a brilliant former music executive who grapples with whether to go public with her story of assault and abuse by a notable figure in the music industry.”

The documentary singles out music mogul Russell Simmons who recently expressed his denial of any wrongdoing from the standpoint of sexual assault, and publicly called out Winfrey saying, “I don’t understand why Oprah is going after black men. No Harvey Weinstein, no Epstein, just Michael Jackson and Russell Simmons this s--t is sad,” he wrote. Simmons is right. Winfrey is targeting a particular group in this soon-to-be-released documentary falling under the theme of the #MeToo movement. She’s singling out monsters. Therefore, let’s stand with this woman and carry the voices for those who have little or no voice of their own.

Heidi McCrary is a writer and a regular contributor to Women’s LifeStyle. Look for her debut novel, Chasing North Star in the fall of 2020. Follow Heidi at heidimccrary.net and fb.com/HeidiMcCraryAuthor

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February 2020

The P lague of

PERFECTIONISM Y

oung or old, striving for perfection has grown with each generation since the 1980s. While sometimes seen as a good or helpful trait, more and more research points to its negative impact on mental health. The more rigid you become in your expectations of yourself, your environment, and/or other people, the less room you leave yourself for dealing with and adapting to what life throws at you. This is called maladaptive perfectionism and it can lead to depression, anxiety, and other mental illnesses. The good news is that studies have found an antidote: self-compassion. THERE ARE THREE DIFFERENT TYPES OF PERFECTIONISM:

Soc ially prescribed:

Perceiving excessive expectations of perfection from others.

Self -oriented: Imposing an irrational desire to be perfect upon oneself.

Oth er-oriented: Placing unrealistic standards of perfection on others.

A perfectionist is someone who will not accept any standard short of perfection, setting extremely high and often unrealistic standards for themselves. Maladaptive perfectionism is defined by perfectionism that gets in the way of normal daily living. This may look like overreacting, criticizing, black and white thinking, taking things personally, being defensive, critical self-evaluation, and needing to be in control. Perhaps you can recognize some of these traits in yourself or people you know. Perfectionism is not all bad. Some degree of adaptive perfectionism is healthy and can help you stay motivated and reach goals. Setting high, but realistic goals is important to our success personally and professionally. The key difference with adaptive

February 2020

perfectionism is that if, or when, these standards are not met, one does not resort to harsh self-criticism, a downward emotional spiral, or fear and avoidance behaviors. High personal standards are not necessarily destructive and can have positive outcomes. So, where does it go wrong? External demands for perfection can increase daily stress and create a vulnerability to depression and anxiety. The self-imposed pressure to be perfect can also create internal turmoil and intense worry about living up to these expectations. Attempting to control your environment and the people in it very often lead to immense frustration, a desire to retreat and be alone, and feel like nothing is ever good enough. The negative impact of these critical thoughts can be countered, however, and adaptive perfectionism is possible. So how do you cultivate self-compassion to help mitigate perfectionism? One place to start is by redefining it. Consider striving for excellence instead of perfection - there is a BIG difference! Thomas Greenspon, author of Moving Past Perfect, refers to this widely adapted quote to show the differences: Excellence is risk. Perfection is fear. Excellence is effort. Perfection is anger and frustration. Excellence is openness to being wrong. Perfection is having to be right. Excellence is spontaneity. Perfection is control. Excellence is flow. Perfectionism is pressure. Excellence is confidence. Perfectionism is doubt. Excellence is a journey. Perfectionism is destination.

Excellence is acceptance. Perfectionism is judgement. Excellence is encouraging. Perfectionism is criticizing. Another way to practice self-compassion is to speak to yourself as you would a child. If a child was hurt, what might you say to them? What tone and words might you use? You may also consider how you would talk to a friend or loved one who was experiencing a similar struggle and challenge. What grace or understanding might you show them that is difficult for you to express to yourself? Reminding yourself that you are only human, and so is everyone else, can also be helpful in feeling like you are not alone. If we can recognize our shared humanity, we can not only be more compassionate to ourselves, but also to other people. To be human is to be imperfect and everyone goes through something. Mistakes are just that, a mistake. You have the opportunity to learn and try again. Finally, this work can be tough to do alone. Seeking out a therapist or coach can help guide you through the process. They can help you set realistic expectations and be empathetic when it feels especially hard or uncomfortable. Talking to a professional for just a few sessions can help you get started on this journey. You are worth the work of figuring out how to love yourself unconditionally. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s never too late to start the process, you just have to start! Emily Betros is a licensed clinical social worker, certified health coach, and owner of Reclaiming Health, LLC. She specializes in body image support, eating disorders, anxiety, life transitions, mindfulness, and womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s issues. More info: www.reclaiminghealth.net.

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Study and learn in a positive and supportive atmosphere with professional, enthusiastic, experienced, university-trained teaching artists. Music instruction for all ages and abilities. Monthly performance opportunities. Need-based financial assistance available. • Private instruction on strings, woodwinds, brass, piano, guitar, mandolin, ukulele, percussion, voice, theory and composition • Crescendo Fiddlers & Chamber Ensembles • Crescendo Community Voices for teens and adults with mental and/or physical challenges • Music Together® Babies & Mixed Ages classes for infants, toddlers, preschoolers and their caregivers • Music Together® Rhythm Kids for ages 4-6 and their caregivers • Orff Studio group classes for ages 5 and up Epic Center, 359 S. Kalamazoo Mall, Suite 12, Kalamazoo information@crescendoacademy.com www.crescendoacademy.com 269/345-6664 SOUTHWEST MICHIGAN

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With a Heavy Heart

T he human heart is the center of our being.

It is the reason for our living and the reason for our end. Not only is it part of an intricate (and delicate) body system designed to keep you moving in this world, but it also celebrates your victories, sings your happiness, and weighs you down like a brick in the worst of times. Sometimes the heart swells with love, where sometimes it will break. It is fickle in that way. Days when your consciousness has set up the day to go one way, but, unknowingly, your heart decides it will not cooperate; rather you are to feel something different or opposite. In addition, there is always that feeling that creeps up on you and creates that incredibly unexpected reaction. You don’t feel right. You’re not sure why. And suddenly you are yelling after someone put a dish on the wrong side of the sink. You’re not upset about the sink, so you must sit and think about why you’re yelling about a simple dish. What your heart is trying to tell you is that it hurts. That you truly hurt. And it’s more like a reminder of, “Hey, I’m still here.” Just because you have been functioning to some degree, doesn’t mean whatever caused the pain has healed. And, unfortunately, no matter what you are doing to achieve some semblance of healing, time (and bouts of more pain) is all you are given.

February 2020

Time is something therapists will preach about in the midst of your trials. Things will take time to heal. You will measure and keep track of the time passed since it happened. The length of healing time may depend on the number of better or terrible days and how long they each last. In that passage of time are days when you will feel almighty, powerful and unstoppable, and days where all you will do is cry because the pain is so unbearable that your choices are to scream or sob. Months pass and perhaps peace has been made, but years later wounds reopen without warning and it can feel like how it did the very first time. It hurts. It hurts oh so much. But that’s okay.

Your heart not only needs you to eat healthy and exercise to keep it beating regularly, but it needs you to be aware of it emotionally too. I know we’ve discussed self-care, but emotional and mental care are the not-sopreached ways to take care of yourself too. You need to take a break to give yourself that time to feel miserable when your heart is so heavy and recognize when that is the case. In addition, talking about it with a trusted professional and embracing the network of people in your life will help you when days are overwhelming.

BY LALITA CHEMELLO

In all honesty, I know we prefer to share the brighter moments like looking into the eyes of someone you love & feeling that overwhelming swell of your heart; a day of happiness that spreads warmth from your heart across your entire being; that blissful joy of spending time with your entire family at a gathering; or standing atop the literal or metaphorical mountain you’ve been working to conquer. Those days of course exist and are incredible, but there are down days too. And just as it is rightfully okay to embrace those exhilarating heart beats, it’s okay to embrace the painful beats as well.

With the heart as complicated and emotional as it can be, we should not only make sure to take care of it as best we can, but learn to listen better when it has something to say. So, dear heart, how are we feeling today?

Lalita Chemello is a Detroit-born writer newly displaced to the west side of the state. She’s written/edited for New Roads lifestyle magazine and Panorama. Her other passions are photography, motorsports and screenwriting. You can also occasionally find her around town on her vintage two wheels.

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Don’t Let Your Sweats Ruin Your Presence

Are you one of 8 million U.S. workers now working from home? Or is it on your professional horizon? According to data from the U.S. Census, 5.2% of citizens worked at home in 2017—up from 5% in 2016 and 3.3% in 2000. With improved internet connectivity, the call for more flexible work environments and the addition of millennials to the workforce, the trend is here to stay. But there are temptations hidden in the benefits. How can you remain successful and promote your professional presence while working from home?

HERE ARE A FEW TIPS: a dedicated work space. Get it organized so it 1. Create looks and functions as a professional office space.

consistent office hours and plan a schedule 2. Set that can be easily followed by you, co-workers and customers.

Dress for work. Select a level of dress that is in line with the role you play, your company’s brand and your personal brand. Working from home doesn’t require a jacketed ensemble; but a polished, professional, casual look will affect you and those you contact.

Do you work from home? What other tips can you share that support and grow your successful professional presence? SOUTHWEST MICHIGAN

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4.Remember that you’re at work, so keep your

mannerisms, posture and body language professional. Bad habits can be developed quickly, and you’ll unconsciously carry them out to meetings and other work events.

your communication professional, 5.Keep whether it’s by phone, email or virtual. home distractions. Define and enforce 6.Avoid your boundaries — every day, if necessary. Kelly Duggan is an Image Consultant specializing in executive and personal image development, etiquette & communication skills. She is a certified member of the Association of Image Consultants International. Contact Kelly at kellyduggan.com.

February 2020

The Tendaji Giving Circle

IN HONOR OF BLACK HISTORY MONTH, WOMEN’S LIFESTYLE IS PROUD TO FEATURE THE WOMEN OF

Tendaji is a Swahili word that means to make things happen…and here in Kalamazoo, the Tendaji giving circle of African American

women professionals is making things happen.

Founded in 2018 by Sabrina Pritchett-Evans and Belinda Tate, the mission of Tendaji is to provide annual, unrestricted grants to support cultural, educational and human services in greater Kalamazoo to empower local African Americans. The organization is young, but it is making a tremendous impact in the community. During their inaugural year, the 21 members of Tendaji presented over $20,000 to two local organizations. The first recipients were the young people of the Merze Tate Explorers, a local group that uses media arts to enhance career and college readiness for children in grades 4-12. Through partnerships with corporations and colleges such as KVCC and WMU, youth are exposed to careers and provided the tools for success. In addition to earning high school and college credits from as young as 14, students share what they learn through writing, photography and videography. Besides the very generous donation, the women of Tendaji provided the young people of the Merze Tate Explorers a demonstration of unity in giving among successful and intelligent African American women. The second recipient of 2018 was the Black Arts and Cultural Center, an essential part of the community. They help maintain and build a relationship and understanding of culture by introducing individuals to art. In 2019, the group expanded to 26 women and the Tendaji giving circle donated over $27,000 (a 30% increase from the previous year) that was divided among three non-profit agencies. The beneficiaries were the Helen L. Fox Gospel Music Center (located in the Douglass Community Center), the Kalamazoo Institute of Arts (the “Harlem Studios Black Refractions” exhibit) and Healthy House, a recovery resident home for women. When asked about the selections, CoFounder Sabrina Pritchett-Evans said, “We wanted to remove the barriers for children in underserved and underrepresented communities by being exposed to music. We also wanted to ensure maximum enjoyment of the visual arts so our funds will help pay for programs that explore themes in the major installation about black art (which arrived at the KIA in Fall 2019).” The greater Kalamazoo area has been incredibly blessed by the leadership and philanthropy shown by the women of the Tendaji giving circle.

If you are a professional, African American woman with an interest in joining this dynamic group, please contact Sabrina Pritchett-Evans at sbrina.pritchett-evans.gh1k@statefarm.com

February 2020

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

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IN THE MARKET FOR A HOME THIS SPRING? Your home is likely to be the biggest purchase you make and potentially your largest ongoing expense. Because of this, it’s important to make sure you are prepared financially.

RUN THE NUMBERS

The market might be in a good position for buying, but if your finances aren’t yet ready to take on the expense of a home, you need to make a plan to get there. Remember that when you buy a house, you’re not only going to be making your mortgage payment; you’ll be responsible for taxes, insurance and upkeep as well. If you buy at the maximum of what your budget allows, you’ll find yourself strapped at the end of the month and vulnerable to falling behind should an emergency hit. By ensuring you have extra cash on hand, you’ll be able to start an emergency savings account to cover any unforeseen expenses. There are many free calculators out there, including those at ConsumersCU.org, that can help you decide what you can afford.

REVIEW YOUR CREDIT REPORT

If it’s been awhile since you last checked your credit report, you will want to make sure all of the information is accurate prior to applying for a mortgage. You are entitled to a copy from each of the three major credit bureaus each year at no charge, which you can request from AnnualCreditReport.com. (The report will be valid for 120 days with the median number used for your pre-approval.) I recommend pulling your credit about 30-45 days prior to the beginning of your home search, which gives you a little time to remedy anything that comes up. The ideal credit score varies for each loan type. The lowest interest rates are made available to those with a credit score of 740 and above, although you can still get favorable financing between 660-740. The lowest typical score for financing is 620.

0mortgage NO % down PMI

DECIDE ON YOUR DOWN PAYMENT

For those looking for a primary residence, littleto-no down payment loans are available. Many strive for a goal of 20% down because it will offer you several advantages (i.e., no private mortgage insurance, or PMI, and the ability to pay your taxes and insurance separate from your payment); however, with interest rates at historic lows, it’s rare that purchasers can save enough fast enough to make a difference in their monthly payment. Be sure to discuss your goals with your lender. Just know many great options are available!

GET YOUR PRE-APPROVAL

At Consumers, we offer the most common and traditional loan programs—including conventional, FHA, and VA, new construction and refinancing—and a few unique programs like 0% Down, No PMI and specialty loans for those in the medical and service fields. All applications at Consumers start by getting a pre-approval using our #FastApp Mortgage application, which allows you to view your loan’s progress 24/7, securely upload documents and message your loan officer easily as you go. Typical documentation needed ahead of time include recent paystubs, past W2s, bank statements and statements for other assets including any retirement accounts. Your lender will provide you with all the specifics.

HAPPY TO HELP!

Never be afraid to reach out and lean on your homebuying team—your lender, realtor and other experienced buyers. There is so much to know about the purchase process, that I bet my homebuyers literally ask a hundred or more questions throughout. And that’s okay. It’s important to me they are confident during the process and knowledgeable of what is expected in order to be successful.

0% DOWN LOAN FEATURES • • • •

No money down (Yes! Gift $ is allowed.) Budget friendly with no mortgage insurance No geographic or sales price restrictions No income limits

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THE HOME BUYING PROCESS 1. DETERMINE YOUR BUDGET AND FINANCING OPTIONS WITH A PREAPPROVAL, which will help identify which loan type is best for you and guide your realtor in helping properly negotiate the structure of your offer. Pre-approvals may require additional time depending on your unique situation, so don’t delay.

2. START YOUR HOME SEARCH! Work with a realtor to view homes and submit your offer. This will begin the negotiation process and determine the terms of your purchase such as price, closing details and other contractual obligations. 3. COMPLETE THE FORMAL APPLICATION PROCESS. This typically involves signing a loan application and other disclosures, submitting more documentation if necessary and paying an appraisal fee. 4. While the application is processed, several different things take place: THE APPRAISAL, INSPECTIONS, PROCESSING, TITLE WORK AND UNDERWRITING. You will be informed of your progress every step of the way and notified if further documentation is needed to support your application. Once underwriting is complete, you’ll be issued a Final Approval, which allows your formal closing to be scheduled! 5. THE CLOSING is the final event in the process, in which all parties sign formal documentation that transfers ownership and funds in exchange for the keys to your new home!

Renée Ziska Mortgage Loan Officer NMLS# 619062 1900 S. Drake Road, Kalamazoo, MI 49006 p: 269.488.1818 c: 248.933.6344 renee.ziska@consumerscu.org ConsumersCU.org/Renee

All loans subject to approval. Rates, terms, and conditions are subject to change and may vary based on credit worthiness, qualifications, and collateral conditions. NMLS# 414712

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February 2020

Valentine’s Day in Kalamazoo

alentine’s Day is a special day to celebrate your significant other, usually by exchanging flowers, chocolates, cards, and even dinner. Kalamazoo happens to be full of flower shops, small businesses with sweet treats and unique items for this occasion, amazing restaurants, and fun activities. Although, the day doesn’t have to revolve around extravagant gifts, there are many fun things to do together in downtown Kalamazoo. Some may write Valentine’s Day off as a Hallmark Holiday, but those that love to celebrate do enjoy making sure everything is flawless. You don’t want to be caught planning last minute, so I’m here to offer a few fun suggestions to make your day special, even for the single ladies and gents too. Who doesn’t appreciate pretty flowers on Valentine’s Day? For those that celebrate, it’s practically a given! A gorgeous bouquet of blooming buds is sure to make that someone special in your life smile. Vandersalm’s Flower Shop has been serving Kalamazoo since 1910. With over 100 years of service here in Kalamazoo, you can’t go wrong with starting at Vandersalm’s (1120 S Burdick St, Kalamazoo, kalamazooflorist.com).

February 2020

If you’re searching for sweet treats or something entertaining and unique to do as a couple, a group with other couples, or getting together with your girlfriends for a “Galentine’s Day” celebration, Kalamazoo has few fun ideas: Kalamazoo Candle Company Marketplace offers walk-ins to make your own candles. How fun is that? Drop by anytime during store hours and you can craft your own unique scented candles. They don’t offer reservations, but if you have more than eight people in your group, calling ahead is encouraged. Groups of 15 or more must book a private event. If you’re unable to find a babysitter, this is also a fun event for the kiddos! Plan for about 30 minutes of candle making and 30 minutes of cooling time (kalamazoocandle.com). While you’re waiting for your candles to cool, you can walk down the Kalamazoo Mall to visit other great shops. Colors & Cocktails will have launched their new studio and it’s the perfect time to stop in and check it out! Purchase some cute Valentine’s Day glassware for your special someone or plan a girl’s night out and paint your own glassware at one of her parties! While you’re out, check out Cherri’s Chocol’art down the road for handmade chocolates, truffles, chocolate-covered Oreo’s and other sweet treats (cherrischocolart.com)!

Tempo Vino Winery is another fun spot to visit in the heart of downtown Kalamazoo. Their wine is sure to pair well with some of those chocolates from Cherri’s Chocol’art! Tempo Vino offers a unique experience for all wine lovers from the curious novice to the seasoned connoisseur. Grab your friends, another couple, or spend time with your significant other wine tasting. They will be releasing two special wines just for Valentine’s Day—Raspberry Ice Wine and a Mango Ginger Moscato. Tempo Vino also offers the option to create your own wine with custom labels (tempovinowinery.com)! If you’re searching for the perfect Galentine’s Day present for your bestie or your significant other, The Perfect Pucker makes homemade lotions, body butters, lipsticks, glosses, and lip scrubs. She even offers a men’s line called ML143 Skincare. You can find her at theperfectpucker.com. Still searching for something sweet? The Kalamazoo Kettle Corn Company offers freshly made popcorn in various flavors, gift baskets, and special limitededition flavors just for Valentine’s Day (kalamazookettlecorn.com).

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BY: RACHEL KIRTLEY

In addition, Heilman’s Nuts and Confections is an iconic stop for sweet treats. They have been a staple in Kalamazoo since 1960 among kids and adults alike. They offer all kinds of sweet and salty treats including gourmet nuts, specialty popcorn, ground and whole bean coffee, chocolate covered strawberries and more (1804 S. Westnedge Ave, Kalamazoo, nuts2you.com)! Kalamazoo is full of fun activities that make for great dates all year round! Here are some fun places to visit: For the adventure seeker in your life, plan a trip to Climb Kalamazoo located right on the Kalamazoo Mall. They offer over 10,500 square feet of climbing surface! This is also perfect for a Valentine’s Day spent with the kids (climbkalamazoo.org). For the Hopeless Romantic in your life, the Henderson Castle is offering a romantic six-course meal with an option to add on a Romantic Table-Scape package that includes a bottle of champagne, chocolate covered strawberries, a rose for your sweetheart, and rose petals on the table (be sure to call for pricing/ reservations). You can also make a night of it and book a room at the castle for a unique experience. The Castle also has spa services and a rooftop hot tub if you don’t wish to stay the night (hendersoncastle.com). For the sports fan, grab tickets to a Kalamazoo K-Wings game. They will have their annual Pink Ice Game February 14th at the Wings Event Center. It also helps bring awareness for cancer research, so wear lots of pink! In addition, they will be offering $2 beer, soda, and hot dogs! This will also be a fun Valentine’s Day family outing (kwings.com). SOUTHWEST MICHIGAN

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Oasis Hot Tubs also makes for a fun evening with the kiddos, gal pals, or some relaxation with your special someone. Each room has a different theme with some hot tubs being indoors, and others “outside” with no rooftop for stargazing (oasishottubs.com)!

Kalamazoo is also an area with very tasteful restaurants to visit with friends, family, and significant others. BraVo! Restaurant & Café currently offers a Beef Tenderloin with mushrooms wrapped in Puff Pastry in addition to offering their full menu. They have a cozy atmosphere and you can kick up the romance by asking for a seat by their fireplace. Don’t forget their amazing house-made desserts (bravokalamazoo.com)! However, nothing says “romantic” like a candlelit dinner at home. Breakout the tablecloth, candles, your favorite wine, and make your favorite homemade meal or grab your favorite takeout.

No matter how you celebrate Valentine’s Day, or even celebrate at all, it ’s still a fun time to get out and discover some new places in downtown Kalamazoo with your loved ones or friends! Rachel Kirtley has worked in all levels of the food industry for over a decade. She is currently a Social Media Influencer, Content Creator and Restaurant Reviewer. You can visit her at thekalamazoofoodie.com

February 2020

How to BY: ASHLEY CARTER YOUNGBLOOD, LMSW, LMFT, CMHIMP

WE ALL WOULD LIKE TO LOVE OUR BODIES. AS YOU MAY HAVE NOTICED, HOWEVER, LOVING OUR BODIES IS SIMPLY NOT THAT EASY. THE GOOD NEWS IS THAT WE CAN CHANGE OUR RELATIONSHIP WITH YOUR BODIES FOREVER!

The FACTS Experts in the field of marketing estimate that the average American is exposed to up to 10,000 ads a day! These are the images of tall, slim, breathtakingly beautiful women who look like they have it all together. This statistic does not even include the barrage of images viewed through social media platforms like Instagram, which is its own visual Gauntlet of “Keeping up with the Jones.” Whether or not we care to admit it, those images affect us. As the Mental Health Foundation in the UK reports, “Higher body dissatisfaction is associated with a poorer quality of life, psychological distress and the risk of unhealthy eating behaviours and eating disorders.” This means that not only making peace with our bodies but also learning to love them is essential for our mental health.

Talk NICELY When we think about how to love our body, we must remember the power of words, spoken both externally and internally. The Gottman Institute, the leading researchers on what makes relationships healthy, identified that healthy relationships include a 5:1 ratio of positive to negative interactions. When we think about our relationships with our selves and our bodies, this should be no different. What would others say if they heard what you were saying to yourself as you look in the mirror or when you get up in the morning? When you are trying on new clothes, are you acknowledging that it is the item that is not right for you, as opposed to your body being the problem? Talk to your body as you would a friend. Being affirming and loving is not about saying things you do not believe (e.g. “I am the most beautiful person in the history of the world.”). It is about acknowledging the parts of you that are beautiful and you appreciate, even if they are imperfectly perfect and even if you have to start with the basics like the ability to have function of your arms.

February 2020

FOLLOW what FREES YOU Although social media can be a challenge in itself if we are actively practicing loving our bodies, consider following body positive individuals or organizations that are constantly contributing to that positive 5:1 ratio. Follow people who look like you so that you are not constantly wishing you looked differently. Consider how your music, movies, books, and loved ones contribute to your beliefs about your body. Maybe start a support group for others simply practicing the commitment to love their bodies, no matter what their medical abilities, size, gender, ethnicity, age or any other feature. And, do not forgot to include the rule that there is no body shaming talk!

The ULTIMATE GOAL The sub-title of a must-read book on this topic titled “The Body is Not an Apology” by Sonya Renee Taylor targets our ultimate goal as it relates to our bodies: RADICAL SELF-LOVE. One common misconception of loving our bodies, however, is the reality that choosing to love your body does not mean that you always really do. Even Ashley Graham, plus-size model and recent darling of the beauty industry, admits this in her book, “A New Model.” Do you choose to unconditionally love your loved ones even when they are different than you would hope? In a similar way, our ultimate goal is to be able to radically love and be confident with our body no matter what. It is true that such a change will not happen overnight (remember the magic 5:1 ratio!). Forbes reminds us that global beauty industry is a $532 billion dollar market (which, to put in perspective, is more than the Gross Domestic Product of many countries!). So, if it is easiest to keep an enemy, have it be the ads and companies trying to sell you laser hair removal. Just avoid having your body be the enemy any longer. The world is hard enough to live in with our societal beauty standards. So, give yourself a break! Make this your first act of radical self-love. Ashley Carter Youngblood owns two business: one as a psychotherapist and the other as a life coach for those looking for a more intimate approach to growth. As a feminist, her passions are in helping support female empowerment. Find out more at kalamazoo-counseling.com and lotuslifestylecoaching.com.

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February 2020

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It’s Time for Bake-off!

At the annual Girl Scout Cookie Bake-Off Benefit in Kalamazoo, the top

chefs in town will each create a unique delicacy with Girl Scout cookies as the main ingredient. The sweet and savory treats and heavy hors d’oeuvres are complimented by amazing live and silent auction items, including an African safari trip from Kalamazoo Safari, a VIP package for Bell’s 35th Anniversary Funvitational, wine tastings, sporting events tickets, spa packages, travel opportunities, and more. The best part is that this night of fun will support girls who need and deserve to have the advantage of Girl Scouting in their lives.

February 2020

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Think back to when you were a girl. Young, naïve, and trying to find your place in the world. You probably had some favorite hobbies, some best friends, and some challenges to face. Did you deal with bullies, low self-confidence, body image issues, or pesky boys? Girls today face many of the same challenges that you did, and they deal with them in the technology age. The girls of today have grown up as technology natives. Kids today learn about September 11th in their history class, as they weren’t alive to know what life was like before 9/11. Cell phone cameras have always been in their face, documenting their every move to be shared with the world. Social media means that they are one tap away from comparing themselves to others, or from content not suited for their age or maturity level. It also means that bullies can berate them from behind the comfort of a screen, hurting feelings from afar without having to watch someone else’s heart break in real time. Anxiety levels in children have never been higher.

In today’s world, Girl Scouting has never been more important. The test of time has shown that most female business leaders (over 50%), two-thirds of women in Congress (60%), and almost all female technology leaders (80%), were Girl Scouts. This is no coincidence. Girl Scouts fuels the female leadership pipeline. Girl Scouts builds qualities in girls that allow them to soar to their full potential. Girl Scouting is an affordable, life-changing option among the dozens of activities from which a girl can choose. However, the unfortunate reality is that there are many girls with barriers in their lives which prevent them from participating in Girl Scouts. These barriers can be financial, or resulting from a lack of volunteer interest or capability. In some SOUTHWEST MICHIGAN

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Girls discuss their goals and dreams with CEO Jan Barker at the 2019 Bake-off.

All Girl Scout programming is developed using criteria from the Girl Scout Leadership Experience Discover: Take Action: Girls develop a strong sense of self. Girls can identify community needs. Girls develop positive values. Girls are resourceful problem solvers. Girls gain practical life skills. Girls advocate for themselves and others, Girls seek challenges in the world. locally and globally. Girls develop critical thinking. Girls educate and inspire others to act. Girls feel empowered to make a difference Connect: in the world. Girls develop healthy relationships. Girls promote cooperation and team building. Girls can resolve conflicts. Girls who discover a need, take Girls advance diversity in multicultural world. action to improve their world, and Girls feel connected to their communities, connect with others, are learning locally and globally. how to be a leader.

low-income or single-parent homes, volunteering to lead a Girl Scout troop would mean taking time away from work. This is simply not an option for some families. Girl Scouts Heart of Michigan, which covers 34 counties throughout the state of Michigan, will never turn a girl away due to financial barriers. In addition to $60,000 toward financial assistance and scholarships, Girl Scouts Heart of Michigan also facilitates the Outreach Program. In this program, Girl Scouts Heart of Michigan full-time and part-time staff provide school-based programs so that girls can experience the life-changing Girl Scout Leadership Experience despite the barriers that would otherwise prevent them from doing so. In Girl Scouts Heart of Michigan, girls who participate in the Outreach Program indicate a strong sense of self, positive conflict resolution skills, and powerful problem solving skills along with positive values. Outreach Program participants also report that Girl Scouts shows them that they are capable of building skills and doing them well and that what they learn in Girl Scouts helps them at home, in school, and in the bigger world.

February 2020

How your Bake-off Benefit dollars are put to work:

$10,000 gives 500 girls the opportunity to engage in the Girl Scout experience $5,000 helps provide outreach programming at three sites and sends a group of girls to camp $2,500 sends an outreach troop to camp for the experience of a lifetime $1,000 provides registration fees for 30 girls in outreach programming $500 helps recruit and train outreach troop facilitators $350 helps provide curriculum and supplies for 10 girls in outreach programs Girls who participate in the Outreach Program get the same incredible outcomes as girls who participate in the classic troop setting. From the famous cookie program to badge work, the Outreach Program provides girls with the Girl Scout Leadership Experience that they may not otherwise experience. One important aspect of this experience is the Girl Scout Gold Award, and the honors that lead up to it: the Bronze and Silver Awards.

Aside from this quantitative data from Outreach Program participants, girls offer comments that summarize the significant impact that Girl Scouting has on their lives. Danaeja, a Brownie Girl Scout, said that “Girl Scouts helped me open up about my feelings, and made me feel better when times were rough.” Another Girl Scout, Kaylee, said, “They’re like my family when I’m not home. They mean a lot to me.” In our Kalamazoo region, outreach programming is available each year in both Kalamazoo and Battle Creek. Each year, approximately 275 girls in Kalamazoo and 100-150 girls in Battle Creek experience the life-changing magic of Girl Scouting via the Outreach Program, and those numbers are growing. The Outreach Program covers a variety of topics for girls, including STEM-based activities, anti-bullying, confidencebuilding, and traditional badge work, among other topics. Often, the topics covered during Outreach Program meetings are determined by the interests of the girls participating, which gives them a customized experience based on what they need and want to learn.

February 2020

These highest awards mark the greatest achievements in Girl Scouting. While working towards these awards, girls identify problems they want to solve and implement solutions. The Girl Scout Gold Award is the most rigorous and prestigious award for girls; it requires them to identify a community-wide need and implement a sustainable solution that will live on beyond the completion of their project. The Girl Scout Gold Award is so prestigious that it typically means automatic scholarships at various colleges and universities. Gold Award Girl Scouts are also entitled to enter the military at a higher pay grade. The benefits associated with earning the Gold Award mean that a girl can change her life, and girls who participate via the Outreach Program have that advantage available to them.

The Details

WHEN: February 26, 2020 WHERE: Radisson Plaza Hotel 100 W. Michigan Avenue Kalamazoo, MI 49007 TIME: 6-8:30 p.m. TICKETS: $55/person • $400/table of eight For more information or to puchase tickets, visit GirlScoutBakeoff.com 800-497-2688 • gshom.org

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At the Girl Scout Cookie Bake-Off Benefit, attendees will get to taste all of the delicious creations made by the best chefs in Kalamazoo and Battle Creek. While Girl Scout cookies often lend themselves to sweet treats, savory treats are not uncommon. Attendees vote for their favorite creation, and judges select the overall winner. Full-sized versions of each of the delectable creations are available for purchase during the

live auction. Many bidders purchase auctioned desserts for their offices or upcoming dinner parties. Heavy hors d’oevres are available to offset the typically sweet creations, as well as a cash bar so you can wash everything down.

Thank You 2020 Bake-off Sponsor s Arbor Financial Credit Union B52 Winery The Barton Group Bell’s Brewery Tim Bos, Bos Auction & Appraisal Services, LLC Brink, Key & Chludinski, PC Chemical Bank DeMent & Marquardt, PLC Denooyer Chevrolet Derek Lietzau Insurance Group Driesenga & Associates, Inc. First National Bank Frederick Construction Kalsee Credit Union L.C. Howard Trucking Co., LLC Mercantile Bank Merrill Lynch Wealth Management Modern Woodman of America Radisson Plaza Hotel Seber Tans, PLC Matt Semelbauer - Edward Jones Women’s Lifestyle Magazine of Southwest Michigan Your name here!

Participating Restaurants Bell’s Eccentric Café

Girl Scouts is a program that changes the lives of girls right here in southwest Michigan, and the Girl Scout Cookie Bake-Off Benefit allows you to support girls who need Girl Scouts the most. Join us on Wednesday, February 26 at 6:00 p.m. at the Radisson in downtown Kalamazoo.

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You’ll leave with a full heart, a full tummy, and the knowledge that you are contributing to the future success of a girl.

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Four Roses Café Friendship Village Garden Griddle Grand Traverse Pie Company LFG Gaming Bar Lucky Rooster Kitchen & Cocktails Principle Food & Drink Wine Loft Zazios

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February 2020

Tips to Prevent Stroke S

“While many adults don’t think they are at risk for stroke or reduced brain function, the reality is that nearly half of all adults in America have high blood pressure, and untreated high blood pressure is one of the most common causes of stroke and also causes up to 60% of dementia.” — Lee Schwamm, MD

troke is often thought of as something that happens to older people, but more people under 50 are having strokes due to increased risky behaviors, such as smoking and untreated high blood pressure. Strokes don’t discriminate, according to the American Stroke Association, a division of the American Heart Association, the world’s leading voluntary health organization devoted to fighting cardiovascular disease and stroke. They can happen to anyone, at any age. About 1 in 4 people worldwide will have a stroke in their lifetime. However, up to 80% of first strokes may be prevented. “Healthy habits can protect and improve brain function and lower your stroke risk,” said Dr. Lee Schwamm, MD, American Stroke Association volunteer chairman and executive vice chairman, department of neurology at Massachusetts General Hospital. In recognition of World Stroke Day, the American Stroke Association offers these five tips to help reduce your risk of stroke and maintain mental sharpness as you age: • KEEP BLOOD PRESSURE IN MIND AND UNDER CONTROL. High blood pressure is the No. 1 controllable risk factor for stroke. Work with your doctor to manage your blood pressure and get it into a healthy range (under 120 over 80).

February 2020

• EAT COLORFUL FRUITS AND VEGGIES. Eating lots of fruits and vegetables can lower blood pressure over time, which may help reduce your stroke risk. Some fruits and vegetables, such as mangos, avocados and blueberries, are especially rich in vitamins and minerals that improve brain function and heart health. • REST UP. Getting 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night can improve brain function both today and long-term. A soothing bedtime routine and avoiding screen time before bed can increase the quality of sleep you’re able to get. Sleep-related breathing issues may also increase stroke risk, so seek treatment right away if you suspect sleep apnea or similar problems. • MEDITATE. Emerging science shows practicing mindfulness and being aware of your breathing may reduce blood pressure. A quick way to be mindful anytime is to pause, notice your breath and observe details in your surroundings. • TAKE A HIKE. Getting active activates brain cells, encouraging them to grow and connect more efficiently. Aerobic exercise, like

going for a walk, also gives your arteries a workout and makes your brain more resilient to reductions in blood flow that can cause strokes. To maximize health benefits, the American Heart Association recommends adults get at least 150 minutes per week of moderate activity or 75 minutes of vigorous activity (or a combination) and two days per week of moderate- to high-intensity muscle strengthening activity. “These simple suggestions are great for everyone to follow, even if you don’t think you’re likely to have a stroke,” Schwamm said. “While many adults don’t think they are at risk for stroke or reduced brain function, the reality is that nearly half of all adults in America have high blood pressure, and untreated high blood pressure is one of the most common causes of stroke and also causes up to 60% of dementia.” For more information and tips for preventing stroke, visit Stroke.org/WorldStrokeDay. (Courtesy of Family Features)

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C remated Remains 12 UNIQUE WAYS TO TREASURE A LOVED ONES

Cremation is becoming as common of a disposition method for your loved one as burial, & not just with our human family members. In our changing times, many families are looking for unique keepsakes following a cremation. Here is a list of some specialty ideas & businesses if you are seeking a keepsake for your loved one. BLOWN GLASS.

HOLY SMOKE.

For a hunting or sport shooting enthusiast, their cremated remains may be put into almost any caliber or gauge of ammunition. Each bullet or shell, when packed, will include a portion of the cremated remains. An example, if someone was an avid skeet shooter, an ammunition made for their shooting buddies to shoot a round of skeet in memory of the person.

Memory Glass, a glass blowing company, will take a portion of the cremated remains and encase them in a blown glass piece. These may take the shape of an orb or other items to set in your home or office.

ART. Cremated remains can be mixed with

ETERNAL REEFS. Cremated remains are mixed

DIAMONDS.

with an environmentally safe concrete reef mixture and they are formed into a unit that is then placed in a coral reef area. The family can be involved from the casting to the placing of the urn. The eternal reef becomes part of that reef system to replace some of what has been broken away.

paint and an art piece designed to hang in memory of them with them in it.

TATTOOS. Your loved oneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s cremated remains

can be specially mixed with tattoo ink and that person is imprinted into you with the tattoo in memory of them.

February 2020

A TRADITIONAL URN. Urns are now available

SCATTERING. An urn is not necessary for

A portion of your loved one may be sent to one of several businesses that specialize in creating diamonds from cremated remains. Through heat, pressure, and time, a beautiful gem emerges. They are gorgeous and they are completely unique, even in color, for that person.

scattering, but you must understand the laws pertaining to your wishes about scattering cremated remains. The owner of the land, whether the state (parks and woods) or private landowners, must give permission prior to scattering of your loved one in that space.

JEWELRY. Many new stores have emerged

In whichever way you choose to remember your loved one, make sure you take those moments to remember and reflect on the life they lived. As you can see, there is no traditional path we all follow after a death. This allows us to choose creative and unique ways to remember our loved ones who were special to us.

CERAMICS. Chronicle Cremation Designs is a

pressed into a vinyl record and a song of your choosing etched into it.

A mix between a scattering urn and a keepsake, the Tolad Walking Stick is one of a kind. The stick is loaded with a portion of your loved oneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s cremated remains. As the ground connects with the end of the stick during your journey, the pressure will release a small amount of the cremated remains with each step. You can slowly spread the person along a favorite path or walking trail that you enjoyed together. in every shape and size, reflecting hobbies, careers, and family. To bury in a cemetery, most require a rigid urn not crafted from glass, porcelain, or wood.

on Etsy that take a portion of the cremated remains and incorporate it into jewelry. Whether pressed into the metal of the item or encased inside a gem or stone mounted on the jewelry piece, you will find many new ideas.

VINYL RECORDS. Cremated remains can be

WALKING STICK.

company who uses a portion of the cremated remains in the clay as they form a pottery piece. Whether you commission a mug to have your morning coffee with your loved one close by or a special serving platter that is used on holidays with your family, it will be unique.

Kari Northey is a funeral director and embalmer in Southwest Michigan. She vlogs weekly on her self-titled YouTube Channel, where she empowers, educates, and embraces her viewers with knowledge about funerals and disposition and caring for loved ones after a death.

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THE UGLY TRUTH ABOUT Juuling, vaping, vape pens, flavored tobacco, and e-cigarettes…. Michigan youth are in the midst of a vaping epidemic. What should a parent know about vaping and e-cigarettes? What are the health implications? Would you recognize the signs if your child was vaping?

IS YOUR CHILD USING E-CIGARETTES?

“The recent data from the FDA show a large increase in high school e-cigarette use and this is after years of a decline in overall tobacco use in our youth,” said Dr. Brandon Hooks DO, FACOI pulmonologist at Ascension Borgess Hospital. “I’m seeing an increase in lung injury associated with e-cigarette use, as defined by the CDC guidelines, and in some patients the damage is irreversible.” Let’s take a look at some local statistics. A survey called the 2017-2018 Michigan Profile for Healthy Youth Survey was voluntarily administered throughout Michigan in grades 7, 9 and 11. The results showed that about 30 percent of Michigan 11thgraders self-reported that they had used e-cigarettes in the past month before the survey. Things weren’t much better for ninth-grade students who selfreported a 20 percent usage or our seventhgrade students who reported a 7 percent usage.

aerosol, not a vapor. The aerosol often includes particles of metals and toxic chemicals that have been linked to heart disease, respiratory disease and cancer.

searching for answers. The American Heart Association has also heard from dentists in Michigan who are seeing damage and sensitivity to teeth as a result of vaping.

As the generation of products progresses, they are becoming sleeker and more colorful, and resembling a USB drive -something very familiar to kids. They have vibrant colors and enticing flavors to youth such as mint, fruit and candy flavors.

“The unfortunate reality is most youth do not consider use of e-cigarettes as smoking. Youth more importantly represent a vulnerable population,” said Dr. Hooks. “As healthcare professionals, it is important that we educate youth not only on bad habits, but health behaviors that can impact their future of development of chronic lung related diseases.”

Many of these products are inexpensive. Vaping usually doesn’t leave the same lingering odor on clothing as tobacco and there is also a mistaken belief among kids that e-cigarettes are healthier than traditional forms of tobacco.

WHAT ARE THE HEALTH CONCERNS?

HOW DO E-CIGARETTES WORK?

While using an e-cigarette is often called “vaping,” the devices usually produce an

As of publication of this article, three Michiganders have died as a result of vapingrelated use. Our medical communities are

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“JUUL launched with a social marketing campaign that positioned them as the cool “vape of choice” for kids,“ said Jeanne LaSargeBono, executive director for the American Heart Association in West Michigan. “JUUL has been incredibly successful. A recent report claimed that nearly half of Juul’s followers on Twitter last year were teens. In addition, many young celebrities are using Juul and those photos are being shared around social media – fueling the craze.”

WHAT CAN PARENTS DO?

Short-term health effects after e-cigarette use are mouth and throat irritation, nausea, headache and dry cough. Recently there is an uptick in serious lung injuries. Unfortunately, long-term health effects are unknown. Research shows exposure to cinnamon and menthol e-liquids are the most damaging to cells.

Vaping Devices, often known as e-cigarettes, are battery operated devices that heat a liquid solution that typically includes nicotine, flavoring and other chemicals.

INTENTIONAL MARKETING TO OUR YOUTH?

Some parents admit that they did not realize the products contained nicotine and that they thought vaping involved just “harmless flavored water”. The American Heart Association recommends that you talk with your kids and teens about the dangers of vaping and they have resources for you. Learn more about what impact you might have with your child’s school, your company or community by visiting Heart.org/ tobaccoEndGame or reach out to your local American Heart Association staff. On an advocacy front, sign up for the You’re the Cure Action Center to learn what steps are being taken locally & nationally. YOURETHECURE.ORG/JOIN

February 2020

Marry Me Chicken Some say the way to the heart is through the stomach. Well, this chicken recipe will have you falling in love. To complete the meal, serve with a green salad, a loaf of crusty bread and your favorite bottle of Chardonnay. And voila! You have a recipe for the perfect Valentine’s Day meal. 4-5 pound roasting chicken kosher salt & black pepper (to taste) 2 lemons 1 whole head garlic, peeled and separated into cloves olive oil (enough to brush outside of chicken) 2 yellow onions, peeled and quartered ½ cup dry white wine ½ cup chicken stock 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F. Remove and discard the chicken giblets. Pat the outside dry. Liberally salt and pepper the inside of the chicken.

Cut the lemons in quarters, place 2 quarters in the chicken along with the garlic and reserve the rest of the lemons. Brush the outside of the chicken with olive oil and sprinkle the chicken liberally with salt and pepper.

Tie the legs together with kitchen string and tuck the wing tips under the body of the chicken.

Roast the chicken for about 1 hour and 15 minutes, until the juices run clear when you cut between a leg and a thigh. Remove the chicken to a platter, cover with aluminum foil, and allow to rest for 10 minutes while you prepare the sauce, leaving the lemons and onions in the pan. Place the pan on top of the stove and turn the heat to medium-high.

Place the chicken in a small (11 by 14-inch) roasting pan. (If the pan is too large, the onions will burn.)

Add the wine and stir with a wooden spoon to scrape up the brown bits. Add the stock and sprinkle on the flour, stirring constantly for a minute, until the sauce thickens.

Add petite red potatoes and baby carrots to the roasting

Serve with a green salad, loaf of crusty bread and your favorite bottle of Chardonnay for the perfect Valentine’s Day meal.

Place the reserved lemons and the sliced onions in a large bowl and toss with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of pepper. Pour the mixture around the chicken in the pan.

pan – they soak up the juice and are absolutely divine.

February 2020

Add any juices that collect under the chicken. Carve the chicken onto a platter and serve with the lemons, onions, and warm sauce.

WomensLifeStyleKazoo.com

Baked Alaska

A SHOW-STOPPING DESSERT

(Family Features) Recipe adapted from Milk Means More 1/2 cup, plus 6 tablespoons, allpurpose flour 6 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder 1 cup, plus 2/3 cup, granulated sugar, divided 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder 1/2 teaspoon baking soda 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/2 cup 2% milk 1/4 cup canola oil 2 eggs nonstick cooking spray 1 1/2 quarts ice cream, any flavor 3 large egg whites 1/8 teaspoon cream of tartar 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Heat oven to 350 F. In large bowl, whisk flour, cocoa powder, 1 cup sugar, baking powder, baking soda and salt. Make well in center of dry ingredients. Add milk, canola oil and eggs. Whisk until blended. Beat batter until smooth, about 3 minutes. Pour batter into 9-inch, round, greased cakepan. Bake 25-28 minutes. Cool completely on wire rack. Wrap in plastic wrap and freeze 1 hour. In glass bowl, spray with nonstick cooking spray. Layer inside of bowl with plastic wrap, draping some over edges of bowl. Scoop ice cream into bowl until full. Level ice cream. Place overhang of plastic wrap over ice cream. Freeze 2 hours. Unwrap cake and place on plate. Unwrap ice

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With its dramatic presentation, this freshly baked cake and ice cream-based dessert can impress guests at your next gathering.

cream and place on top of cake. Wrap both together and freeze 2 hours. In medium bowl, beat egg whites and cream of tartar until frothy. Add remaining sugar and vanilla extract; beat mixture to form stiff peaks. Heat oven to 500 F. Unwrap stacked cake. Place on oven-safe plate. Spread meringue, creating swirl motions around cake. Bake 2-4 minutes until meringue peaks are brown and remaining meringue takes on dry appearance. Serve immediately or cover with plastic wrap and place in freezer. Find more dessert recipes perfect for entertaining at Culinary.net.

February 2020

Reader’s Lounge Little Weirds

In the Dream House

The Starless Sea

by Jenny Slate

by Carmen Maria Machado

by Erin Morgenstern

In her latest literary collection release, Jenny Slate establishes her entertaining skills with this unique publication. Slate addresses the many serious dilemmas present not only in the United States, but also on a global scale. However, she does this in a way the reader can understand and not feel discouraged, but rather determined to act.

Yet again, Machado has written another amazing and thought-provoking book. In her newest release, Machado writes about her own life through a memoir and gives the reader a window into her life. Not only is this memoir an intimate view on her life, it is also a wonderful perspective that illustrates her usual spark of creativity within her writing.

Erin Morgenstern’s newest release has been long anticipated by her fans of The Night Circus. In this newest novel, she presents a fantastical story set in dark, nautical scenery. Her usual elegant writing style is shown here, and her storytelling is just as wonderful as in The Night Circus, if not better.

How To: Absurd Scientific Advice for Common RealWorld Problems by Randall Munroe In another one of his hilarious and helpful books, Munroe provides readers with advice for their daily lives in the most complicated way. Just as in his previous reference guidebooks, Munroe brings to light how practical scientific inquiries can be understood in a humorous way.

February 2020

Everything Awesome About Dinosaurs by Mike Lowery This brilliant, young nonfiction title brings out the inner child in all of us. There are a “gazillion true facts” with colorful illustrations on every page. There is a lot of information and many prehistoric facts presented in this book, all in a very fun manner that’s entertaining for everyone involved.

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.

WomensLifeStyleKazoo.com

Calendar of Events Hosting an event you'd like to share?

Email calendar@womenslifestylekazoo.com and type CALENDAR in the subject line. Our deadline is the 10th of the month prior to publication.

FEBRUARY 1-2

FEBRUARY 8

Kalamazoo Expo Center Hosted by the Kalamazoo Antique Auto Restorers Club. This ain’t no flea market! Auto-related swap meet held since 1962. Admission: Saturday $7 Adults, Sunday $7/2 Adults, Children 16 and under free. For more information contact Scott Wolf at 269-873-8675. www. kaarc.org

BLND announced Kalamazoo’s 1st WELLNESS CRAWL!, a way to connect the community of Kalamazoo with Winter Wellness, while highlighting downtown businesses. The Wellness Crawl is a creative, holistic way to invest in the city of Kalamazoo, MI, and offers a new way for residents and business owners to benefit from one another while investing in community, connection and wellness. Tickets to the Wellness Crawl are available today for $25. For more information, visit BLND.eventbrite.com. www.blndhealth.com

57th Annual Winter Auto Swap Meet

FEBRUARY 3

Parchment Book Group

Parchment Community Library, 401 S Riverview Dr, 6:30 pm

FEBRUARY 4

Become a Citizen Scientist Kalamazoo Conservation District will host an informational panel on opportunities within Kalamazoo County. Everyone can be a citizen scientist and help collect data to contribute to knowledge about our environment. Join us to learn about several organizations and how you can get involved. Oshtemo Community Center, 6407 Parkview Ave, Kalamazoo. 7:00 pm. Free. kalamazooconservation@ gmail.org. (269)775-3368.

FEBRUARY 6

Valentine’s Day String Art Class

A Hittin the Mitten Tours Event. 6:00 pm. 7441 South Westnedge Ave, Suite 100, Portage. Cost is $35 per person.

Kalamazoo’s 1st WELLNESS CRAWL

Peace of Mind = PRICELESS · · · ·

Downsizing & Move Assistance House & Pet Sitting Professional Event & Project Management Personal Assistant

VHS Project Graduation Euchre Tournament

Vicksburg Project Graduation. Location is at the Centennial Club House. 7:00-11:00 pm

FEBRUARY 8-9 Shipshewana on the Road

Kalamazoo Expo Center This is a one-of-a-kind indoor market aimed towards the family that would like to find all their shopping needs in one place, at great prices, and have some fun doing it! Admission: Adults $5, Children under 12 free. For more info, call 269-979-8888 or email greg@jdlshows.com www.shipshewanaontheroad.com

MARY BETH LYONS | OWNER marybeth@asinglerayofhope.com www.asinglerayofhope.com

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February 2020

FEBRUARY 9

2nd Sundays Live! Zion Lion

Parchment Community Library, 401 S Riverview Dr. 2:00 pm

FEBRUARY 12

Birds and Coffee Walk

WK Kellogg Bird Sanctuary – Augusta, MI. 9:00 – 10:30 am. Please join us on the second Wednesday of each month exploring the Sanctuary’s trails on a guided bird hike, looking for birds of the season. The hike ends with a delicious cup of shade-grown, bird-friendly coffee while we review our bird sightings for the day. Borrow binoculars and a field guide from the Sanctuary, or bring your own. Free to members. Regular admission for non-members.

FEBRUARY 15

Saturday Flea Market

Saturday, February 15

HEALTHY & FIT EXPO

Saturday, Feb. 15

10a - 4p

Kalamazoo Expo Center

2900 Lake St, Kalamazoo 49048

IT’S TIME TO MAKE YOUR HEALTH & WELLNESS A PRIORITY! Come to the Expo - meet the people & businesses who can help you! Try to win $250 by participating in the indoor obstacle course race!

February 2020

Kalamazoo Expo Center. Special Saturday Market! Come check out the market for some great deals and great merchandise! Choose from the new and used items, antiques, handcrafted items, and much more! 65 Booths Available! For booth space call 269-383-8778 or visit www.kalamazooexpocenter.com

Kalamazoo MT&PCA Fur Auction

Kalamazoo Expo Center. Auction and raw fur sale. Admission is free. $5 per lot number, must be a member to sell. Auction begins at 8:00 am and runs until all sales are complete. For more info contact Missi Martineau at 269-426—364 or mistythicket80@gmail.com. www.mtpca.com

Healthy & Fit Expo

Kalamazoo Expo Center. An expo with expert vendors, speaker, and presentation from the world of physical, mental, and spiritual wellness. Admission: Adults $5, Children $2, Children under 6 free. For more info contact Joel Eisinger at 517-706-1011 or visit www. healthyandfitexpo.com

Kalamazoo Reptile and Exotic Pet Expo

Kalamazoo Expo Center. Buy, sell or trade a variety of reptiles, amphibians, small mammals and other exotic pets, supplies and food. Admission: Adults $5, Children $2, Children under 6 free. Family Max $20. For more info contact Tony at 269-779-9851 or tonygcollison@gmail.com. Visit www.kalamazooreptileexpo.com

FEBRUARY 16

Kzoo Baby & Family Expo

Radisson Plaza Hotel. 10am-3pm. Join us for a FREE day of family fun and connection! Ideal for parents, families, expecting mothers, and kids through age 8. Exhibits, music, activities,learning, community and more!

FEBRUARY 17

Mystery Book Club.

Parchment Community Library, 401 S Riverview Dr. 6:30 pm. Our winter virtual vacation tour concludes with Jade Dragon Mountain by Elsa Hart. We’ll enjoy refreshments inspired by the book as we discuss this mystery.

FEBRUARY 18

Kalamazoo Log Cabin Quilters

Interested in learning about Dresden Plate Quilts – join us for the evening. This program is free, open to the public, and runs from 7-9 pm. Please plan to arrive 6:15-7:00 pm. Our meeting place is the Second Reformed Church, 2323 Stadium Dr, Kalamazoo. Find us on FB or klcq.org

FEBRUARY 19 Yum’s the Word: New Orleans

Parchment Community Library, 401 S Riverview Dr. 6:30 pm. Learn about (and sample) jambalaya and other New Orleans fare with Chef Curtis Woods of PJW Creole Cuisine – just in time for Mardi Gras $5. Registration required (now available online). 269-343-7747. Parchmentlibrary.org

WomensLifeStyleKazoo.com

FEBRUARY 20

Ladies Night at Vintage Inspired.

5:00-8:00 pm. Sales, prizes, free snacks and beverages, and lots more fun, all set to the theme of the Secret Garden. 52530 N Main St, Mattawan. VintageInspiredMattawan.com

FEBRUARY 23

Kalamazoo Record & CD Show

Kalamazoo Expo Center. Presented by Rerun Records. Thousands of new and used records and CDs from all time periods and types of music. Collector quality records along with music memorabilia and supplies. Buy, sell, and trade with dealers and collectors. Admission is free. Early admission at 8am is $5. For more info contact Rod Branham at 734-604-2540 or rerun45@ rocketmail.com. www.rerunrecords.com

TLC Wedding Kalamazoo Bridal Show

Kalamazoo Expo Center. Bridal show hosted by TLC Weddings. Admission is free. For more info contact Brooke Carney at 269-447-6525 or email tlcweddings.decoreventservices@ gmail.com. www.tlcweddings.online

FEBRUARY 26 Career Life Expo

Kalamazoo Expo Center. United Way of the Battle Creek & Kalamazoo region and Michigan Works! Southwest are hosting a career fair with over 75 employers and more than 20 non-profits who provide support to job seekers looking for employment and employment resources in southwest Michigan. Admission is free. For more info contact Jamie Rugg at 269-788-1136 or getinvolved@ uwbckr.org. Visit www. changethestory.org or www. michiganworkssouthwest.org. Employers who are interested in having a booth at the Expo can contact getinvolved@uwbckr.org

or 269-788-1135 for more info.

A F T E R T H E H O L I DAYS

C E L E B RAT E W I T H U S

FEBRUARY 27

Ladies Night Out at LLA

“Have a Heart: Celebrating Women’s Minds, Bodies, and Souls”. Hosted by members of the Ladies’ Library Association of Kalamazoo. 5-7 pm. 333 S Park Street. 269-344-3710. A fun-filled evening beginning with a presentation by Chris Lampen-Crowell, co-owner of Gazelle Sports, entitled “Women on the Move,” followed by food, festivities, and shopping with local vendors. Admission $20 includes food, beverage, and a ticket for a glass of wine.Get your tickets early before we sell out! Makes a great Valentine’s Day present.

FEBRUARY 28

Garage Sale Art Fair

Kalamazoo Expo Center. 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. Admission: Adults $5, free for children. For more info email bonnie@garagesaleartfair.com or visit www.garagesaleartfair.com

To Benefiit

FEB 15, 2020! .

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TICKETS GO ON SALE NOVEMBER 29 GENERAL ADMISSION 5-8PM • VIP ADMISSION AT 4PM!

DELTA HOTELS BY MARRIOTT KALAMAZOO CONFERENCE CENTER FOR ALL WINE NOT INFORMATION, FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK AT: WINENOTKZOO

FEBRUARY 29 Winter Nature Scavenger Hunt

WK Kellogg Bird Sanctuary – Augusta, MI. 11:00 am –3:00 pm. Seek nature’s clues on a quest to solve questions or complete challenges about animals, winter survival, birds, tracks, and more on this winter nature scavenger hunt. All completed hunts will be entered in a drawing for a FREE family membership! There will be 10 mysteries to uncover and, if you are feeling up to the test of your skills, an additional bonus challenge. We will have warm drinks and sweet treats throughout the day. Dress for the weather and be prepared to explore the mysteries of a winter day in Michigan. Free to members. Regular admission for non-members.

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February 2020

AMELIA LIETZAU Commercial Realtor® 269-823-3572 bartongroupllc.com

2413 Parkview Ave | 269-553-6506 kazoobooks.com

RomenceGardensonline.com 9660 Shaver Rd. Portage

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.

Your event has to be spectacular...

www.LeesAdventureSports.com 311 W Kilgore, Kalamazoo

4608 W Main St

fb: DiscoveryShopKalamazoo (269) 345-0661

Let us show you how. (269) 324-0999 UnitedRental.biz Governor’s Energy Excellency Award 2017 Contractor of the Year

Helping families find their Dream Home since 2004!

theBetterWorldBuilders.com | 269-383-7862

curves.com 600 Romence Rd #130, Portage, MI

Capture the Power of Print www.printmill.com ∙ 269-382-0428

LawtonRidgeWinery.com (269) 372-9463

Kalamazoo’s local drug testing lab forensicfluids.com | 866.492.2517

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

Dawn Beltz (269) 720-1682

Sawall Health Foods sawallhf.com 762 W Main St, Kalamazoo, MI (269) 345-6755

www.comensolis.com

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