Kalamazoo in Bloom - April 2019 by Moxie Magazine

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Kalamazoo in Bloom Essential • Entertaining • Enlightening WomensLifeStyleKazoo.com

April 2019

The People Who Make It Happen... Publisher:

Darlene Mohr dcmohr@wlskazoo.com

Editor:

LIFE

Heather Dombos hdombos@wlskazoo.com

4 6 Ways to Feel Beautiful in April 6 What is Your Favorite Way to Welcome Spring? 14 Talk Derby to Me: Hosting a Kentucky Derby Party 26 5 Tips to Go Green This Spring 28 Mastering the Art of Networking 29 What is Your Financial Personality?

Contributing Writers:

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

Account Representatives:

FOOD & DRINK

Ruth Ann Dibert radibert@wlskazoo.com

10 Girl Scout Cookie Bake-off 30 Recipes: Easter Brunch 31 Restaurant Review - Bravo!

Layout & Design:

Alicia Pauwels apauwels@wlskazoo.com

Photography:

K. Redmond Photography fb.com/kredmondphotography

K N O W L E D G E µ S U C C E S S µ P O W E R

Administrative:

STYLE

Patty Clifford pclifford@wlskazoo.com

16 April Showers: Rain Gear Fashion

269-350-5227 Sales Info: 269-365-8254

HOME & GARDEN

By Mail:

Greater Kalamazoo Women’s LifeStyle P. O. Box 2284 Portage, MI 49081-2284

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

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

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18 Healthcare Faces in

LOOK WHO’S TALKING

15 Local Shopping: troVe of Portage 17 Swing Into Spring 27 Stunning New Trends in Flowers & Plants for Your Garden 33 The Ants Go Marching

8 Kalamazoo in Bloom: Monika Trahe & CJ Drenth

HEALTH & BEAUTY

12 How Much Exercise is Enough? 18 Spring Clean Your Mind 32 What is Health Coaching?

COMMUNITY NEWS & HAPPENINGS 35 Calendar

LEARN & DO

34 Reader’s Lounge KALAMAZOO • PORTAGE • BATTLE CREEK ST. JOSEPH • SOUTH HAVEN

FRONT COVER PHOTO: K. Redmond Photography fb.com/kredmondphotography FRONT COVER STYLING: troVe, 8639 Portage Road

April 2019

FROMTHEPUBLISHER “I believe that the greatest gift you can give your family and the world is a healthy you.” – Joyce Meyer

Greetings! Finally, April has arrived! I hope this month finds you happy, healthy and committed to staying that way. We have filled the pages of this magazine with articles that we hope will inspire you to embrace healthy habits and find new ways to take care of yourself. Your health is precious and worth every effort to safeguard it. Are you looking for a healthcare provider or wanting to try new type of treatment? We are pleased to introduce you, in these pages, to many of Kalamazoo’s outstanding healthcare providers. We are truly blessed to live in a community with such a wealth of resources and we’re thrilled to be able to share a bit of what’s available to you. Whatever else you do this month, make sure you head outside to enjoy as much of this glorious spring weather as you can. Bask in the sunshine and inhale the sweet fragrance of the flowers we’ve waited so long to see. After the winter we’ve had, we deserve to enjoy every sweet moment.

Wishing you the Best April Ever!

“Your health is what you make of it. Everything you do and think either adds to the vitality, energy and spirit you possess or takes away from it.” – Ann Wigmore "The secret of health for both mind and body is not to mourn for the past, not to worry about the future, or not to anticipate troubles, but to live in the present moment wisely and earnestly.” – Buddha "Your body hears everything your mind says.” – Naomi Judd

~ Darlene

6 Ways to Feel Beautiful In

APRIL

Smile and laugh often.

Remain playful.

4 4

Show compassion and forgiveness.

Feed your body with healthy foods.

April 2019

Beauty is evaluated both inside and out. You must especially focus inward. Here are some simple thoughts to help magnify your beautiful self. BY PEACHES MCCAHILL

Be positive and appreciate your life.

Listen. You have two ears and one mouth.

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April 2019

What is Your Favorite Way to Welcome Spring? My favorite way to welcome spring is by getting my fingers dirty! Cleaning up the gardens, picking daffodils, and planting seeds always brings me so much joy. - Jenny Huyck

My favorite way to welcome spring is to put out floral hand soap and Easter decorations. - Stephanie Buckham

I like to take my mind off of my spring allergies by attending shooting competitions and finding outdoor adventures. - Jude Worden

Organizing! Taking control of the "clutter" that naturally accumulates during those grey, wintery months helps me feel prepared and excited going into those summer months. - Olivia Dorgan

I love taking my kiddos on a spring hike and seeing all of the new growth. We have fun identifying all of the different "weeds" growing! - Lisa ValdezWogoman

I love to dine with my family, al fresco, at one of the great restaurants in the area. - Kate Yancho

My favorite way to welcome spring is to smile back at the crocuses as they burst from the ground. It's so fun to welcome them as the first flowers to grace us with gorgeous color and a luscious fragrance.

- Traycie Small

I welcome spring by visiting the local greenhouses. I like to see what is new and start planning my gardens. - Christy Corsi

- Jan Barker

I like to take out my spring dishes, go for frozen yogurt and/or read on my porch to get me in the mood for a fresh new season.

April 2019

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April 2019

Monika Trahe

Executive Director

LOOK WHO’S TALKING

There’s no denying that this winter careers in a variety of non-profit organizations over the years. in Michigan has been harsh. So harsh, in fact, that it seems hard to believe that we’ll ever get to see lush greenery and blooming flora again. All pessimism aside, spring will indeed come once again (as it always does) and bring us the warmth and beauty our souls so desperately crave. When it does, you can be sure that the members of the Kalamazoo in Bloom team will be ready. The local plants, flowers and trees they’ve been lovingly cultivating during the long, cold winter months will leave their greenhouses and be distributed throughout the Kalamazoo area. Their mission? To bring beauty and refreshment to our wonderful community and encourage us to spend a little more time outdoors.

Monika notes that her position with Kalamazoo in Bloom is due, in large part, to being in the right place at the right time. She crossed paths with Mary van Tassel, who was then the organization’s Board Chair, a few weeks before the then-director announced her retirement. Mary thought of Monika, and, as she was between jobs, the timing seemed serendipitous. Being Executive Director of Kalamazoo in Bloom is truly a dream job for Monika. She loves that the work she does directly benefits the entire community. “There is an immediate impact once the flowers are planted – the community looks more welcoming and

CJ Drenth

Gardener Educator people’s spirits seem lifted,” she notes. “I love the community involvement; both with the volunteers who make it all happen and the greater community who appreciate and positively comment on what we’ve done. It fills me with such gratitude and renews my passion for this work." Monika is happily and busily single. She is a big supporter of the arts and loves to take in a show at any of Kalamazoo’s great venues during her time off. She loves musicals and secretly dreams of being on Broadway, despite her lack of training, singing voice or acting experience. Her idea of a perfect day off would include watching a Hallmark movie, with nothing weighing on her mind.

MONIKA TRAHE is the Executive Director of Kalamazoo in Bloom and CJ Drenth serves as its Gardener Educator. Together, with a team of over 200 dedicated volunteers and partner organizations, they host a series of planting days every May that transform the Kalamazoo and Portage areas. We’re thrilled to have the chance to tell you a little more about these dynamic ladies. Monika Trahe is a Florida native who found her way to Southwest Michigan when she came to attend Western Michigan University for graduate school. She earned her Master’s degree in Biological Anthropology and thought that her path would lead her to a career in Anthropology. Instead, her love of working with people led her to

April 2019

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CJ DRENTH has been a MSU Extension Certified Advanced Master Gardener since 2008 and is honored to use her considerable skills to transform the Kalamazoo and Portage communities into places of great beauty. Her work begins before most of us are even starting to think about the coming of spring. By December 1st (long before most of us have finished our Christmas shopping), CJ has meticulously planned for and ordered the plants she will need for the following planting season. By February, CJ is in the greenhouse, growing the plants (including 100 flower tree pots) that will eventually find their homes throughout our community. Once the weather turns and spring is here to stay, it’s time for CJ and her team of volunteers to do the planting. There are currently six planting days scheduled, starting on May 14 and continuing through May 23. Whether it’s planting the peacock in Bronson Park or bringing the canoe and butterfly in Portage to life, there is plenty of work to keep the many volunteers busy. CJ notes that her team will plant all forty

beds in Bronson Park in under three hours. Transforming the face of Kalamazoo’s outdoor spaces to make them more vibrant and welcoming is deeply satisfying for CJ. CJ loves that she has “the biggest and best office in Kalamazoo” where everyone can visit her. She deeply believes that this job chose her and she loves working outside. Not surprisingly, her perfect day is sunny and 70 degrees with no humidity. She worries that if we don’t do something to remedy the climate change that is threatens our planet, those “perfect days” will become rarer and rarer. She notes that “without drastic changes from everyone, there is no way our planet can sustain us into the next century. All other concerns pale when we realize we are destroying the planet that sustains us all.” CJ has spent 35 years in the theatre community, where she has learned many strange and wonderful things, including how to juggle. She loves crafts of all kinds and enjoys doing jigsaw puzzles to pass the long winter months.

Find out more at www.kalamazooinbloom.org

PHOTOGRAPHY OF KALAMAZOO IN BLOOM IN ACTION BY JOHN SEWARD

Erica Shier is a married mother of four who loves reading, scrapbooking & thrift stores. When she’s not driving her small pack of children around, she spends her time volunteering, writing & trying to keep on top of the laundry. KALAMAZOO • PORTAGE • BATTLE CREEK ST. JOSEPH • SOUTH HAVEN

April 2019

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

very February dessert lovers delight at the annual Girl Scout Cookie Bakeoff. Top chefs from the Kalamazoo area transform delicious Girl Scout cookies into the most decadent desserts. This year’s event featured some incredible desserts and amazing auction items. A great time was had by all and a little over $50,000 was raised to help send local girls to Girl Scout Camp. It doesn’t get much better than that! This year’s winning chef duo, Nicole Hassen and Rachel Peters of Friendship Village have been kind enough to share their recipe with our readers. Enjoy!

Toffee-tastic Cookie Shots Chefs Nicole Hassen and Rachael Peters of Friendship Village

Yield: 10 Cookie Shots Prep time: 30 m | Cook time: 5-7 m Total cooling time: ½ – 1 hour

1 c butter, softened ½ c brown sugar ¼ c granulated sugar 1 egg, large 1 egg yolk, large 1 tsp pure vanilla extract ¼ tsp Kosher salt 1 c coconut flour ¾ c Toffee-tastic Cookies, ground fine 2 Tbsp vanilla pudding mix ¼ c toffee pieces

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.

Cream together the butter & both sugars until smooth.

Beat in the eggs, then add in the vanilla & salt. Stir in flour & fold in remaining dry ingredients.

Drop spoonfuls of dough into greased cookie shot mold cavities, press inserts in. Dough should be about 1/4” thick.

Bake for about 5-7 minutes in preheated oven, or until edges are lightly browned.

Cool almost completely before removing inserts. Once cooled, paint inside with chocolate and let set. Remove cookies from mold. The filling options are limited only by your imagination. Enjoy!

April 2019

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ARE YOU CHANGING JOBS OR RETIRING?

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April 2019

How Much Exercise Should You Get? H

ow much exercise should you get? Whether it’s walking, running, biking, swimming, playing sports or doing yoga, the goal is for adults to get at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous exercise (or a combination of both) per week. Kids should get at least 60 minutes of physical activity every day. How you achieve this goal is up to you. Thirty minutes five times a week, 50 minutes three times a week, or just 22 minutes every day. You’ll experience benefits even if you divide your daily time into two or three blocks of 10 to 15 minutes each. “As an avid runner for over 20 years, I make it my goal to move every day for at least 45 minutes. I love to mix my exercise routine up. It may involve spinning, weight training, walking/running or yoga but my goal is always 45 minutes of movement,” said Michele A. S. Fabi of CEO of C2RS and co-chair of the 2019 Kalamazoo Heart Walk Adventure.

To learn more about the Southwest Michigan Heart Walk on Saturday, May 18, 2019, visit KalamazooHeartWalk.org

April 2019

Activity like Fabi’s is an example of the American Heart Association’s Healthy For Good Movement. Healthy for Good can inspire you to create lasting change in your health and your life, one small step at a time.

The approach is simple: Eat smart. Add color. Move more. Be well. Maybe you haven’t been active for a while. No problem! Just get started. Even if you’re already active, here are some easy ways you can add more steps into your day:

• Grab the leash & take the dog out for a walk. • Walk the kids to the park or playground. • Forget about rock star parking. Park a bit farther from the entrance to your workplace, school, grocery store, restaurants, etc. • Take the stairs instead of the elevator, even if just for one or two floors. • Walk to a nearby restaurant for lunch or dinner instead of driving. • Catch up with a friend by walking around the block while you chat on the phone.

You can practice Moving More at the Southwest Michigan Heart Walk on its new date, Saturday, May 18, 2019. The revamped Heart Walk will be adding zones throughout the event that will help participants Be Well, Eat Smart, Add Color to their lives and Move More. Challenges and engagement spaces are being added to the route along the campuses of Kalamazoo College and WMU. Cardiovascular disease survivors from across the state will be honored and there will be kid’s activities, a pet zone, music and more! This is a family and pet-friendly event. The Heart Walk is the American Heart Association’s mission – building healthier lives, free of cardiovascular diseases and stroke – in action. Held annually, the walk celebrates those who have made lifestyle changes in an effort to improve their hearthealth, and encourages others to take the pledge to live healthier lifestyles, while raising the funding needed for life-saving research and education.

“The opportunity to Move More with so many inspiring people at the Heart Walk is a privilege and I am thankful every day for my good health,” said Fabi.

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Banishing Spring Allergies (BPT) - Spring. The time of year when, as poet Alfred Lord Tennyson famously said, a young man’s (and woman’s) fancy “lightly turns to thoughts of love.” That is, of course, if you’re not sneezing, coughing or dealing with itchy eyes. Spring allergies seem to get worse every year. Is there anything you can do to avoid them?

Yes, says allergist Todd Mahr, MD, president of the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI). “You might feel like suffering from allergies is going to happen every spring no matter what, but there are ways to help alleviate your symptoms.” These 8 ACAAI tips will help you enjoy the season instead of sitting it out indoors.

See an allergist. Before the season kicks in, make an appointment with an allergist to find out exactly what is causing those itchy, watery eyes. Discovering the allergen that you’re reacting to is the first step in treating it. The ACAAI’s Allergist Locator can help you find a board-certified allergist in your area.

Find out if it’s allergies or asthma. Or both. The symptoms from asthma can be similar to those of allergies. To make matters worse, allergies plus asthma can be a one-two punch for some allergy sufferers. Almost 75 percent of asthma sufferers also have allergies. Your allergist can diagnose what’s causing your symptoms and offer suggestions for treatment so you can start living the life you want to live.

Consider allergy shots... They may be the best way to treat tree, grass, mold, dust mite, cat and dog allergies. Allergy shots are immunotherapy. That means your allergist will gradually give you increasingly larger doses of whatever you’re allergic to. There are also tablets that melt under your tongue to treat allergies to ragweed, grass pollen and dust mites. Both forms create a tolerance within your immune system. ...or get a prescription. Research has shown that most allergy sufferers find prescription medications more effective than those they can get over the counter. But most people don’t go in search of a prescription. An allergist can discover exactly what you’re allergic to and prescribe the right medication to ease your symptoms. Start medication before the season hits. Don’t wait. Much like successful pain management involves getting in front of pain before it kicks into high gear, by taking your allergy medications before the worst symptoms develop, you’ll be doing a lot to alleviate those symptoms. If you usually start feeling it in March or April, start taking your medications in February.

Commit to a thorough spring cleaning. It’s not just to give the house a fresh look after the long winter. A deep clean will reduce allergens like mold, which build up in basements and other areas where you might not go every day. It’s also a great

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

way to get rid of the pet hair and dander that have built up in places like your sofa. Wash throw rugs regularly, too, in hot water.

Wash the day away before going to bed. Take a shower and wash your hair before hitting the hay to rinse away pollen and other allergens you’ve picked up during the day. Similarly, wash your sheets and bedding once a week in hot water.

Use the AC. It’s tempting to throw open the windows and let that fresh spring air waft into the house. The only problem is, pollen and other allergens will waft in with it. Instead, use your air conditioner and make sure the filter is clean. Change your filter every three months and use one with a MERV rating of 11 or 12. With a few commonsense tactics, you can get ahead of your allergies and keep them in the rear-view mirror all season long.

About ACAAI The ACAAI is a professional medical organization of more than 6,000 allergists-immunologists and allied health professionals, headquartered in Arlington Heights, Ill. The College fosters a culture of collaboration and congeniality in which its members work together and with others toward the common goals of patient care, education, advocacy and research. ACAAI allergists are boardcertified physicians trained to diagnose allergies and asthma, administer immunotherapy and provide patients with the best treatment outcomes. For more information and to find relief, visit AllergyandAsthmaRelief.org.

April 2019

Talk DERBY to Me B

reak out the bonnets, bowties, and bourbon because Saturday, May 4th is the 145th running of the Kentucky Derby. Kick off the outdoor entertaining season by hosting a glam gettogether to celebrate the Run for the Roses.

The Mint Julep is the official drink of the Kentucky Derby. You can’t go wrong with this classic cocktail.

Encourage guests to sport their most dapper Derby wear. Have a contest for best ladies’ hat and gentlemen’s bowtie.

}

BEST DRESSED GUESTS

PLACE YOUR BETS!

Keep the party hopping with dollar betting slips for all the races held at Kentucky Oaks on Derby Day.

THE DERBY DARLING

}

THE KENTUCKY CLASSIC

Delight your guests with a slice of Derby pie. This chocolate & pecan tart was created in Prospect, Kentucky at the Melrose Inn.

BOURBON TASTING

Kentucky is the birthplace of Bourbon (declared America’s only native spirit, by Congress in 1964).

April 2019

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Celebrate the Blue Grass State with a selection of fine Bourbons for your guests to enjoy. We recommend adding a bottle of Eagle Rare to your selection for a special treat.

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LOCAL SHOPPING

8639 Portage Road | 269.312.8299 | troveofportage.com M – F 10am – 6 pm Sat – 10 am – 5 pm Sun – Closed

hether you are looking for vintage furniture, cute accessories, unique gifts, or even if you are unsure what you are looking for, troVe has something for you! Owner, Julie and her adorable “assistant” Zoie, the Bernese Mountain Dog, are almost always at the store to greet new and old friends with a big smile. Vintage, unique, antique, or chic, troVe has something for everyone. Multiple vendors rent and curate space in the store, which makes for a shopping experience that is unlike anything you will find in big box stores. We were blown away with the colors, textures, and bargains throughout the store. So, regardless of what you are looking for, Julie and her talented staff have just the item for you. In addition to all of the great items for sale, troVe also offers Annie Sloan Chalk Paint classes where you can learn: two color distressing, vintage finishing using dark wax, smooth finish, and color wash techniques. The threehour class is a great deal at only $75, but they fill up fast, so make sure to check out the schedule at troveofportage. com/chalk-paint-r-workshops and register quickly. If you are looking for some great items to help bring a little spring into your home, head down to troVe and say hello to Julie and Zoie. Make sure to let them know that your friends at Women’s LifeStyle sent you their way.

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

April 2019

April usually brings grey skies and showers, but don’t let the gloomy weather keep you from celebrating the arrival of spring. Bright, colorful rain gear brings a fun pop of color to the gloomiest day. Don’t let the weather discourage you from looking your best! The best thing about the rainy weather is that it serves as an excuse to go shopping for new rain gear!

UMBRELLA

TRADITIONAL RAIN BOOTS

Invest in a high quality umbrella this year. It will last much longer than cheaper umbrellas that tend to easily break!

If you prefer a classic style, solid colors are for you. Rain boots range in color from neutral to neon and are easy to find in department and specialty stores. If you want high quality, classic rain boots check out Hunter, the leading brand of rain boot. Hunter boots are extremely popular in Michigan, and can be found at V&A Bootery and stores in the Crossroads Mall.

PATTERNED RAIN BOOTS

RAIN COAT

If you like to infuse a little fun in your fashion, you might want to try patterned rain boots. Patterned rain boots are a bold accessory, and serve as a statement piece for any look.

2019 outerwear trends include puffy sleeves, double breasted styles, oversized garments, marigold colors, and plaid patterns. Rain coats are heavier than rain jackets, and are essential for cold, rainy Michigan days.

RAIN JACKET

A classic and simple rain jacket will never go out of style. Rain jackets work for mild spring to warmer summer weather. For 2019, runway styles have included see-through rain jackets. Expect to see the 2019 transparent color trend for rain jackets in stores!

Janae Thomas is a recent graduate of Western Michigan University with a degree in Fashion Merchandising. She is passionate about writing, fashion, & the empowerment of women. Headshot by Robin Maxim.

April 2019

WATERPROOF MAKEUP

Waterproof makeup is good to have for rainy days. You won’t have to worry about your makeup running! Use micellar water, olive oil or petroleum jelly with round cotton pads to gently remove waterproof makeup.

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Swing into Spring W COURTESY FAMILY FEATURES

hile spring naturally means it’s time for a refresh for many homeowners, it doesn’t mean you’re limited only to a cleaning party. Take advantage of the season by using it as an opportunity to

upgrade different areas of your home for reasons ranging from energy efficiency and convenience to ease of living and safety. With increasing technology for smart home devices and ever-evolving design styles, upgrading your home can be nearly anything

5 Ideas for Updating Your Space

you make of it. These ideas include ways that you can add organization, revolutionize your home tech, increase energy efficiency, enhance security and more. Find more ways to enhance your space this spring at eLivingToday.com.

Content courtesy of Office Depot

ELEGANT, FUNCTIONAL SHELVING

REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR HOME

Take your smart home setup to the next level with assistance from a product like the Google Open shelving can add character, design and attractive storage to your home. For example, Home Hub. Its 7-inch touch screen and builtin Google Assistant technology answers your ClosetMaid’s Ventilated Shelving exhibits questions, shows you the weather and more simple elegance and is both an aesthetically pleasing way to showcase your favorite things using voice recognition software. The virtual and functional enough to keep linens fresh in assistant is available at retailers like Office Depot or OfficeMax, which offer Workonomy Tech the closet or hold clutter at bay by the front door. Made from solid wood and epoxy-coated Services to install smart home devices for added steel, these shelves are easy to install, durable convenience. It also works with other smart hubs for fluid integration between all your at-home tech and can complement nearly any room. Learn devices. Find more information at officedepot.com. more at closetmaid.com.

A FRONT DOOR FIXER UPPER

Anytime is a good time to make sure your home is safe, particularly at what’s often the main point of entry – your front door. This spring is an ideal time to keep out unwanted guests with a door that’s sturdy and draft-resistant while also providing an aesthetic touch for enhanced curb appeal. When choosing a door that’s right for your home, focus on options that include a strong deadbolt and thick frame for peace of mind. KALAMAZOO • PORTAGE • BATTLE CREEK ST. JOSEPH • SOUTH HAVEN

NATURAL LIGHT, FRESH AIR

Add natural light and fresh air to your home with an option like Velux No Leak Solar Powered Fresh Air Skylights featuring pre-installed light filtering or light blocking shades in more than 80 colors. The skylights use a solar panel to capture daylight and recharge a battery-operated control system. They can also be opened and closed via remote control or smartphone app, and a rain sensor closes the skylights during inclement weather. Find more information at whyskylights.com.

SMART HOME SAFETY

With safety typically representing a top priority for most homeowners, taking advantage of smart technology can be one way to improve your feelings of safety and comfort in your home. A solution like a smart lock on the main entryway to your house can add security while also ensuring you’re never locked out of your own home. With options that can pair with apps on your smartphone or feature keyless entry via unique numerical passwords, you can marry convenience with safety.

April 2019

Spring Clean Your Mind

As the temperature starts to rise and the snow starts to melt, many of us start thinking of spring cleaning. Maybe you’re planning to finally have a garage sale, tackle the basement, or deep clean all the nooks and crannies that have been lost to the dark side during the winter.

look around and be in a space that doesn’t cause you stress and distraction. This might only be one room right now. But, have that space, so you can move on to the next step.

What we don’t often think about spring cleaning is our mind. You’ve likely heard of Marie Kondo by now – the Japanese guru of “tidying up” and I think we can apply her concepts to our mind. It’s time to purge negative thoughts and messages that aren’t serving you, just like that pile of picture frames in your basement you plan to find a project for on Pinterest!

Getting rid of tangible things with sentimental value is tough, but I’m going to bet that struggle is actually tied up in mental clutter and it’s time to dive in. Here are some questions to get you started. Answer them without judgment of yourself. “Thoughts” in this respect mean the internal dialog or selftalk that only you hear:

Let’s take some time to clear out thoughts that don’t serve us any longer, bog us down, and invite chaos and doubt. If you’re really into spring time analogies, you can think about “pruning” these thoughts so you can bloom and grow fuller and stronger with the new season.

GET PHYSICAL FIRST

Is your physical space messy, cluttered, and chaotic? This is where you need to start! Visually, what can you do to help calm your brain? Don’t skip this step! If you’re physically surrounded by clutter, it’s going to be that much harder to get inside and clean out your mind. For all my procrastinators out there, this doesn’t have to delay the process. This can be as quick as picking up the living room, doing the dishes, or dropping off a few bags to Goodwill. It’s just enough so you can

April 2019

IT’S GO TIME

•• What are my values, and are my thoughts serving them? •• What thoughts set me back from moving forward? •• What thoughts used to serve me, but now I don’t need them anymore? •• What thoughts stress me out and send me into a tailspin whenever they pop up? •• Do my thoughts “spark joy," as Marie Kondo calls it? •• What thoughts or beliefs am I holding on to that are irrelevant now?

I highly recommend writing your answers down. By writing, you will get them out of your mind and on to paper instead, literally starting to declutter your mind and make space for new thoughts.

A CLEAN SLATE

I wish it was that easy to purge negative thoughts forever, but it’s not. However, you’ve identified what’s not serving you anymore, cleaned out some mental space, and now you get to decide how you want to fill it! Thank your old thoughts for their service, and welcome in the potential for new thoughts that will serve you and your values. Visualize these new intentions. Make them real in your mind. Write these new thoughts down as well. Review them as often as you need to make sure they are taking up space in your mind, not the old ones. Here’s an easy breathing meditation that can also help in this process. Sit comfortably in a quiet place and repeat these phrases in your mind. INHALE: Breathe in the fresh energy of spring EXHALE: Breathe out the stale air of winter INHALE: Breathe in clarity EXHALE: Breathe out clutter INHALE: Breathe in new possibilities EXHALE: Breathe out what’s holding me back

As you make your list for spring cleaning this year, make sure to take some time to declutter your mind as well. It stores up a lot more “dust” than you think, and a good deep clean of the mind can be just as therapeutic as hauling out junk to the curb. Emily Betros is a licensed clinical social worker, certified health coach, and owner or Reclaiming Health, LLC. She helps clients put together an individualized plan to meet their health goals. Emily enjoys hiking, traveling, vegan-izing recipes, and spending time with her husband and daughter.

WomensLifeStyleKazoo.com

Faces in

Healthcare Women’s LifeStyle of Greater Kalamazoo is pleased to present Faces In Healthcare 2019. We are excited to introduce some of the area specialists that make West Michigan’s medical community so outstanding. Be sure to take a moment and read through the following pages to learn about their areas of expertise and get some valuable medical advice.

Advanced Radiology Services Moorsbridge Family Health

Meredith Psychological

Premier Vein Center

Vitality Healthcare

Northwoods Village Memory Care

Susan Dennis, DDS

West Michigan Plastic Surgery

ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS

Dr. Susan Dennis Dr. Susan Dennis is the Founder and CEO of the dental practice Susan M. Dennis, D.D.S. She is an authority on Cosmetic Dentistry and Smile Makeovers, which help people of all ages, achieve the smile of their dreams. Hundreds of her patients have experienced the life-changing beauty of a more youthful, healthy and powerful smile. Her patients come to her state-ofthe-art office from all over the United States. Dr. Dennis has achieved mastery level in Dental Implant Restoration and Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Therapy and has helped cure headaches for hundreds of people with her treatment therapies. She is a very compassionate and empathetic professional that understands dental fear and has perfected the “recipe” to get all of her patients profoundly numb and comfortable. The University of Michigan, which is the top dental school in the world, awarded The Vedder Society Crown and Bridge Prosthetics Award to Dr. Dennis as the number one outstanding achievement as a senior dental student in Prosthetic Restoration. She is the Team Dentist for

several Western Michigan University sports teams and is very active in her community. Dr. Dennis has made several television appearances on The Lori Moore Show and WWMT. She is a regular contributor to the online site, The Practice Solution, and has been published in the Kalamazoo Gazette and several articles in The Heart of Texas Corners, Gull Lake Living and Women’s Lifestyle Magazine of Greater Kalamazoo. Dr. Dennis is the originator of “The Dental Prescription," the specific, detailed analysis and prescription for each patient’s needs and wants. She and her team sponsor at least one charitable event every quarter which include; “The $10,000 Smile Makeover Contest," Dentistry From the Heart®, Halloween Candy Buyback for Operation Gratitude, American Heart Association, Kalamazoo Humane Society Dog Walk and is a major contributor to their new veterinary clinic to open in the Fall of 2019. Dr. Dennis is happily married to her husband, Jim Murray, and together they have three wonderful sons and daughters-inlaw, and seven grandchildren.

Susan M. Dennis | D.D.S.

8150 Moorsbridge Rd, Suite A Portage, MI 49024 MyDrDennis.com

269.327.3400 KALAMAZOO • PORTAGE • BATTLE CREEK ST. JOSEPH • SOUTH HAVEN

April 2019

ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS

Angela Case, Certified Laser Esthetician & Registered Electrologist

Dana Faux, Certified Laser Esthetician

Scott D. Holley, MD, Plastic Surgeon

Roxanne Cornelius, PA-C, Aesthetic Expert

Malorie Kwiatkowski, PA-C Women’s Health

West Michigan Plastic Surgery A Michigan native, DR. SCOTT HOLLEY has practiced Plastic, Reconstructive and Hand surgery in West Michigan for over 20 years. Dr. Scott Holley is a Board Certified Plastic, Reconstructive and Hand Surgeon, and master at non-invasive aesthetic treatments who approaches his work with openness, honesty and compassion. Dr. Holley believes that achieving patient satisfaction on a daily basis is the true reward of clinical practice. He notes, “What drives me is the day-to-day challenge of giving my utmost to meet the expectations of my patients and deliver beautiful, natural results.”

ANGELA CASE is a Certified Laser

Esthetician, Skincare Specialist and Registered Electrologist with 22 years of experience. As an Electrologist, she uses a tiny amount of electrical current to destroy the hair growth cells for

long-lasting hair removal. She also offers a variety of laser treatments that correct discoloration, sun damage, uneven skin tone and help with pore size & texture.

DANA FAUX is a Certified Laser Esthetician

& Skincare Specialist with 18 years of experience. Using Visia Skincare Analysis, she is able to provide a detailed and accurate assessment of the client’s “skin age." She recommends Broad Band Light (BBL) Laser Treatments, a noninvasive anti-aging treatment that quickly and safely removes pigmentation, tightens skin and restores a youthful glow, for virtually all her patients.

ROXANNE CORNELIUS, PA-C, is a Board

Certified Physician Assistant and Master Injector. She has been a PA for 20 years, with 13 years of injection experience and eight years on Allergan’s National Training Faculty. Her favorite procedure

is to gently inject a combination of both Botox and dermal fillers (such as Juvederm or Restylane) to help patients appear more refreshed and relaxed!

MALORIE KWIATKOWSKI, PA-C, is a

Board Certified Physician Assistant who specializes in Women’s Health. Being able to work within the specialty of aesthetics and plastic surgery with a focus on women’s health is truly her dream job. She has always wanted to be a resource for other women and is excited to help them become the best version of themselves. She is especially passionate about the diVa vaginal laser treatment because it so drastically changes the quality of life for patients. The diVa hybrid laser resurfaces vaginal tissue affected by childbirth and menopause and helps restore and improve vaginal health.

8175 Creekside Drive, Suite 100 | Portage 3600 Capital Ave SW, Suite 102 | Battle Creek www.wmips.com

269.222.1611 20

April 2019

WomensLifeStyleKazoo.com

ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS

Dr. Scott Piereson Kalamazoo

Premier Vein Center For the last 10 years Dr. Scott Piereson has specialized in the most comprehensive and advanced techniques in the treatment of vein disease at Premier Vein Center.

Recognizing that people with vein disease don’t always have obvious symptoms such as big bulging veins, Dr. Piereson and Premier Vein Center were the first to offer free vein screenings.

Those who exhibit symptoms may experience aching, heavy legs, swelling, or sometimes even darkening of the skin in the lower legs. Dr. Piereson and his colleagues use a short ultrasound test to provide insight and determine whether symptoms are caused by vein disease. A positive test in the screening ultrasound highlights the need for further evaluation and treatment of vein disease.

Dr. Piereson is a University of Michigan and Wayne State University graduate who has received the

certification of the American Board of Venous and Lymphatic Medicine. He is a compassionate doctor who prides himself on educating patients about their condition and treatment options so they can be active participants in their care. Over the years, Dr. Piereson has seen the treatment of vein disease come a long way. Now located in a doctor’s office instead of a hospital, vein treatments include minimally invasive options, are typically covered by most insurance, and are not associated with downtime.

Dr. Piereson is the first in the Kalamazoo area to offer Varithena®. This new treatment option enables treatment of some of the most complex forms of vein disease including recurrences after prior treatment. It also is one of easiest procedures for patients, as it only requires one shot. Offering the latest technologies allows Premier Vein Center to handle the most complex cases. Encompassing

easy to treat veins as well as more difficult cases and veins, they believe that leaving problem areas untreated makes patients more susceptible to recurrence later and may not provide ideal symptom relief.

If tired, achy, or swollen legs and veins are limiting your comfort physically or aesthetically, we invite you to schedule an appointment with Dr. Piereson and Premier Vein Center.

To register for a free vein screening, visit www.premierveincenter.com/veinscreening or call 269.585.VEIN (8346).

1535 Gull Road, Suite 200 Kalamazoo, MI 269.585.8346 www.premierveincenter.com

269.585.8346 KALAMAZOO • PORTAGE • BATTLE CREEK ST. JOSEPH • SOUTH HAVEN

April 2019

ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS

Matthew Smetts, MD Kalamazoo

Andrew Forsyth, MD Kalamazoo

Ryan Daily, MD St. Joseph

Richard Lichtenberg, MD St. Joseph

Joel Vander Lugt MD St. Joseph

Advanced Radiology UTERINE FIBROID EMBOLIZATION

HERE ARE SOME OF THE BENEFITS OF UFE:

Uterine fibroid embolization (UFE) is a minimally invasive treatment for fibroid tumors of the uterus.

Uterine fibroid embolization, done under local anesthesia, is much less invasive than open or laparoscopic surgery to remove individual uterine fibroids (myomectomy) or the whole uterus (hysterectomy).

their original volume, which amounts to about a 20 percent reduction in their diameter. More importantly, they soften after embolization and no longer exert pressure on the adjacent pelvic organs.

No surgical incision is neededâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;only a small nick in the skin that does not have to be stitched.

Follow-up studies over several years have shown that it is rare for treated fibroids to regrow or for new fibroids to develop after uterine fibroid embolization. This is because all fibroids present in the uterus, even early-stage nodules that may be too small to see on imaging exams, are treated during the procedure.

Fibroid tumors, also known as myomas, are benign tumors that arise from the muscular wall of the uterus. It is extremely rare for them to turn cancerous. More commonly, they cause heavy menstrual bleeding, pain in the pelvic region, and pressure on the bladder or bowel. In a UFE procedure, an interventional radiologist uses an x-ray camera called a fluoroscope to guide the delivery of small particles to the uterus and fibroids. The small particles are injected through a thin, flexible tube called a catheter. These block the arteries that provide blood flow, causing the fibroids to shrink. Because the effect of uterine fibroid embolization on fertility is not fully understood, UFE is typically offered to women who no longer wish to become pregnant or who want or need to avoid having a hysterectomy, which is the operation to remove the uterus. Your doctor will likely evaluate your condition using diagnostic imaging to determine whether you are a candidate for UFE.

Patients ordinarily can resume their usual activities much earlier than if they had surgery to treat their fibroids. As compared to surgery, general anesthesia is not required and the recovery time is much shorter, with virtually no blood loss. Follow-up studies have shown that nearly 90 percent of women who have their fibroids treated by uterine fibroid embolization experience either significant or complete resolution of their fibroid-related symptoms. This is true both for women who have heavy bleeding as well as those who have bulk-related symptoms including urinary frequency, pelvic pain or pressure. On average, fibroids will shrink to half

Uterine fibroid embolization is a more permanent solution than the option of hormonal therapy, because when hormonal treatment is stopped the fibroid tumors usually grow back. Regrowth also has been a problem with laser treatment of uterine fibroids. Our Interventional Radiologists perform this procedure at Bronson Healthcare in Kalamazoo and Spectrum Health Lakeland in St. Joseph. For additional information on this procedure call 616-459-7225.

3264 N Evergreen Dr NE Grand Rapids, MI 49525 www.advancedrad.com

616.363.7272 22

April 2019

WomensLifeStyleKazoo.com

ACCEPTING NEW RESIDENTS

ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS

Debra Murrey, Executive Director

North Woods Village of Kalamazoo Debra Murrey is the Executive Director of North Woods Village of Kalamazoo, a brand-new memory care assisted living community that boasts 61 spacious resident suits in three secured neighborhoods. A Certified Dementia Practitioner with extensive experience in handling all stages of Alzheimer's Disease and dementia based illnesses, Debra is a compassionate, caring executive leader and educator. She is committed to equipping her staff to enrich the lives of residents while guiding families through their loved ones' journeys. Debra lives in the area with her family and loves to go boating, take long walks and enjoys watching The Ohio State Buckeys.

6203 Stadium Drive | Kalamazoo, MI www.northwoodsmemorycare.com

North Woods

Village

Kalamazoo

(269)397-2200

FIVE TIPS FOR CHOOSING A HEALTHCARE PROVIDER Coverage

Verify that the provider participates with your insurance plan.

Location, location, location You aren’t going to want to travel long distances when you are feeling under the weather, so find a provider close to home.

Family and friends

Ask the people in your life for a recommendation.

Check-up

Research education, quality of work & licensure with one of the many available internet resources.

Test run

Visit the office. Is it clean and comfortable, is the staff professional and polite? KALAMAZOO • PORTAGE • BATTLE CREEK ST. JOSEPH • SOUTH HAVEN

Bonita J. O’Reilly FNP-BC Moorsbridge Family Health is a division of Betten Integrative Medicine, where Bonita O’Reilly FNP offers Direct Primary Care services in collaboration with Karen Betten MD.

Meet Bonita J. O’Reilly FNP-BC Bonita O’Reilly is a board certified Family Nurse Practitioner with over 15 years’ experience in Primary Family Medicine. She has practiced primary care in multiple settings, treating patients from newborn to the elderly. Her experience includes urgent care, acute care, chronic disease management, diabetic teaching, women’s health, and pediatric well child and sick care. Bonita O’Reilly’s expertise is in patient education as well as in wellness promotion to empower patients to take charge of their health. She is very pleased to continue to provide health care to her community with a new direction that provides more time for comprehensive patient care. Direct Primary Care is a different approach to providing health care. Instead of the pay-per-visit model, patients contract directly with their healthcare provider, paying a flat monthly fee that covers most common healthcare services. This allows patients to have their routine healthcare needs met with no insurance required. More information may be found at MoorsbridgeFamilyHealth.com. O’Reilly is a graduate of Memorial Hospital School of Nursing in South Bend and she earned her Master’s in Public Administration with a Minor in Gerontology from WMU. She practiced nursing at Borgess and Bronson Hospitals and spent 9 years with Visiting Nurses Association providing case management for elderly and homebound patients. O’Reilly also taught Pediatric Nursing for KVCC for 5 years and completed her Master’s in Nursing Practitioner at GVSU.

8191 Moorsbridge Road Portage, MI 49024 269.312.8170 April 2019

April 2019

WomensLifeStyleKazoo.com

ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS

Julie Meredith Davis, PhD, LP

Stacey Marquee, PhD, LLP

Melissa Heinrich, PhD, LLP

Rebecca Tuinstra, MA, TLLP

Amber Jaramillo, MA, LLP

Samantha Chilcote Ritenburgh, MA, LLP

Mai Butler, MA, TLLP

Meredith Psychological & Testing Services The therapists at Meredith Psychological & Testing Services recognize that relationships can be both the origin of problems and the source of healing. Similarly, they understand that sometimes present behaviors are influence by past experiences. This is why all nine therapists in their group work hard to create a caring and judgment-free zone where clients can develop trust and feel safe to explore their feelings and actions. The therapists at Meredith Psychological & Testing Services seek to honor the unique cultural context of their diverse clients because they recognize how culture and environment can impact relationships. The team at Meredith Psychological & Testing Services

offers outpatient counseling in a are highly educated, with all wide range of behavioral health members of the team having fields. The therapists have interest completed their Master’s degrees and expertise in treating anxiety, in Counseling Psychology. depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD Julie Meredith Davis, Stacy and personality disorders. They Marquee and Melissa Heinrich have experience with Obsessivehave completed their Doctorate Compulsive Disorder, addiction degrees while Rebecca Tuinstra, and developmental disorders. Mai Butler and Henry McCain Counseling is available for those are working toward their own going through life transitions, Doctorates. All of the therapists dealing with family and have at least three year of relationship issues or experiencing experience (ranging up to fifteen loss, grief or trauma. The team years) which means that their has expertise with LGTBQ issues, clients can be sure they are in including sexuality, sexual identity capable hands. and gender identity and offers Advice: “And the day came counseling for those dealing with when the risk to remain tight in stress related to their race or the bud was more painful than ethnic identity. the risk it took to blossom” The therapists at Meredith - Anais Nin Psychological & Testing Services

5985 W. Main St., Suite 101, Kalamazoo meredithpsychologicalandtesting.com (269) 459-1818 269.459.1818 KALAMAZOO • PORTAGE • BATTLE CREEK ST. JOSEPH • SOUTH HAVEN

April 2019

Apple-Mustard Glazed Ham Dinner Tender, juicy American ham, oven baked and basted with our homemade apple mustard glaze.

Roasted-Stuffed Breast of Chicken

A tender breast of chicken stuffed with our traditional bread stuffing. Oven baked, then laced with chicken gravy. Served with choice of two side dishes & fresh hot bread. Register to Win a Giant Easter Bunny and $50 Gift Card for Mom & Dad!

FREE STUFFED BUNNY WITH EACH KIDâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S MEAL! a One stuffed bunny per child Regular Dinner & Kids (12 & under) while supplies last. Menus Available Good only on Easter Sunday. a Not available with any other Call Ahead for Available promotions or discounts. Seating

5160 W. Main St, Kalamazoo 269.342.4360

5 Tips to Go Green This Spring LIVE LOCAL

TURN OFF THE TAP

Southwest Michigan is home to some amazing farmers' markets. Visit your favorite and stock up on local, organic food.

You can save up to 200 gallons of water each month by just turning off the tap while brushing your teeth.

DITCH THE DISPOSABLES

RECYCLE

Although recycling education has been around for decades, the U.S. recycling rate is only around 34.5%.

April 2019

Water bottles, paper towels, paper plates, feminine hygiene productsâ&#x20AC;Śwe throw away (literally) tons of disposable products every year. Cut down on the waste and replace these items with quality, reusable alternatives.

LINE DRY LAUNDRY

Save energy & enjoy the crisp feel & smell of laundry dried in the sunshine.

WomensLifeStyleKazoo.com

Strikingin New Trends Flowers & Plants for Your Garden

New Tattoo Vinca (BPT) - Today’s plant lovers want more than the traditional flowers to enhance their home. Rather, people want to enjoy the experience of getting in touch with nature, while also looking for unique flowers and plants to add a more creative, personal touch of color and inspiration to their yards. This year, gardens will be more visually interesting, environmentally friendly and demonstrate the love and care provided by the families who tend them.

Here are a few of the latest gardening ideas you and your loved ones can enjoy, from Ball Horticultural Company.

GARDENING AS AN EXPERIENCE

Detoxing from our daily dependence on digital distractions and tech gadgets is becoming not just a desire, but a necessity. What better way for you and your loved ones to take a break from screens than to spend time with plants, creating beauty, serenity and even a nutritious lifestyle? Make the process a group effort: from going to your favorite garden center and choosing your veggies, to caring for them and watching them grow, then harvesting and eating, the full experience is something to enjoy. Plant and grow veggies like the Snackabelle Red Pepper, a mini bell pepper that starts out green, then ripens red, with a rich, sweet flavor - perfect to have at home for snacking as well as cooking.

Gerbera Revolution

Ornamental Pepper

If you love natural fragrances, Lavender Blue Spear is a wonderful choice. They are easy to grow, and will achieve a height of nearly a foot. You can use the fresh lavender to make infused oil, soap, hand scrubs or bath salts.

Other flowers catch the eye with dynamic texture, such as the lovely Double PinkTastic Calibrachoa, a fully double flower with a dark pink eye and lighter pink petals. Its burst of blooms will cover the plant and spill over their containers, window boxes or hanging baskets.

NEW COLOR CHOICES

EASY OPTIONS FOR BEGINNING GARDENERS

Look for unexpected colors to help you make a statement with your containers, window boxes or indoor potted plant garden this year. Striking new colors include the 2019 Pantone color of the year, “Living Coral,” seen in the Gerbera Revolution Salmon Shades potted flower, also known as the African Daisy. Gerbera plants are easy to care for and provide great indoor decor, which also makes them perfect choices for gift giving. New Tattoo Vinca looks like a work of art, with gorgeous petals showing modern colors, swirled with soft strokes of black that make each petal look inked. The Tattoo Vinca is not only low-maintenance and heat-tolerant, but will attract pollinators like bees and butterflies to your garden. The Double Zahara Bright Orange Zinnia is another great choice for head-turning color. Its double flowers bloom in vivid orange, and they are suitable for landscaping and container planting. This flower is also a breeze to care for and pollinator-friendly.

Or you can choose a unique plant with warm tones, like the bright and colorful Ornamental Pepper, with such attractive multi-colored fruits that they are grown just for show. The Ornamental Pepper displays intense shades of yellows, oranges and reds in its fruit.

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

New gardeners who want choices beyond traditional flower options have great alternatives this year. If you’re looking for plants that are durable and colorful, the Echinacea Sombrero Tres Amigos produces a deer-resistant perennial flower that is highly attractive to butterflies and songbirds. Tres Amigos shows three colors, opening as a peachy-orange color, then aging to rose and fading to burgundy. A great way to fill large spaces quickly is the attention-getting Big Blue Salvia, with spires that continuously bloom from July into the fall, with little care needed. This flower grows from 24 to 36 inches tall, with beautiful deep blue blooms that are attractive to hummingbirds and bees.

Beginner and experienced gardeners alike can enjoy the newest gardening trends by branching out into plants and flowers to attract pollinators, taking advantage of vivid new color options and involving the whole family in the process. To explore a whole new world of gardening options, visit your favorite local garden center this spring. Share your own style for 2019 by making your garden a personal experience.

April 2019

"Our success has really been based on partnerships from the very beginning.

—Bill Gates, founder, Microsoft 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: www.kellyduggan.com.

Mastering the Art of Networking Build Your Business Through Whom You Know and Who Knows You

oday, networking is much more than meeting and greeting at a luncheon or get-together. Technology has added new ways of connecting with others and has created new challenges for an old art. Despite high-tech advances, however, old-fashioned etiquette rules remain important. Here are some ideas for presenting yourself in a professional, compelling way both in person and online to earn new business and uncover opportunities.

USING EXISTING CLIENTS TO EXPAND YOUR NETWORK

Your current clients and prospects are your best source for referrals to others who might need your services. Do not be shy about asking them to help you expand your business. Request contact information for anyone your client wishes to refer to you and reach out to contacts in person whenever possible. Also always leave your business cards with your current clients to hand out to others as you come up in conversation.

JOINING PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZATIONS

Your local chamber of commerce and professional organizations associated with your business offer many ways to make yourself known in your industry and geographic area. Attend a breakfast or luncheon meeting and bring along your marketing brochures, business cards and a notebook to jot down information about the new contacts you meet.

April 2019

JOINING ONLINE BUSINESS AND SOCIAL NETWORKS

The line between business and personal lives can easily blur in the online world. When you are networking online, use caution when revealing the details of your life to others. Pay careful attention to the networks you are considering joining and consider the implications to your privacy. Services are available for helping business people navigate these waters gracefully and professionally.

Services such as Facebook and LinkedIn give you the opportunity to join professional groups appropriate for your type of business. Learn online networking protocol and adhere to community standards. Learn how to properly approach a business proposition lest you appear to others as a “spammer,” which is considered a serious breech of etiquette and trust on many social networks.

PRESENTING YOUR BUSINESS CARD AND OFFERING TO CONNECT Online social networks offer opportunities to introduce yourself, connect your profile to colleagues and prospects and show your work relationships to others. Some people find it intrusive to be offered a friendship if they have not met you in person; others enjoy having a large network. Carefully study each online network you join and consider with whom you want to connect before choosing a strategy.

You can find services to help you identify sites that make sense for your organization and develop a strategy for maximizing your networking results.

INTRODUCING YOURSELF AND SMILING ELECTRONICALLY

You make an impression online just as you do in person. Show enthusiasm in your introduction. Mention how you are connected to someone and make a special offer, such as an invitation to an upcoming business event, or mention a recent event at which you came into contact. This personalizes the contact and is a polite way to demonstrate you are not canvassing the entire community, but have a real interest in reaching out to that person individually.

NETWORKING 24/7

You are always available online, and you can now network even in your sleep! Potential networking contacts can join your network or sign up for your newsletter, view your website and find your business via search engines. This can increase business and help grow your network. Put attention on your virtual image. How good you look online is as important as how good you look in person. Soon, your network will be wider and deeper than ever before as you create, come across and are offered many opportunities for growing your business exponentially.

WomensLifeStyleKazoo.com

WHAT IS YOUR

Financial Personality? SANDY K DERBY, ChFC, CASL, LUTCF | VP Old National Investments

study by Allianz Life Insurance Co determined that women have five distinct financial personalities, each characterized by unique attitudes and behaviors toward money and power. The Allianz Women, Money, and Power Study examined women in a variety of stages of life, and took into consideration varying family dynamics. Here are the descriptions they developed based on the survey. Can you identify yourself in one of these financial personalities? "FINANCIAL DREAMER: Intimidated by money and investing, you feel helpless and hope that someone else will help you take care of your financial problems. If in a relationship, you usually defer all financial matters to your partner. You have the most to gain by consulting with a professional."¹

"Financial Avoider: You feel overwhelmed by all the financial choices available to you. A lack of financial knowledge keeps you from taking the necessary steps to resolve your financial problems. You know you would benefit by seeking the help of a financial professional. You just have trouble taking the first step." "FINANCIAL COLLABORATOR: You are extremely balanced in your life. When in a relationship, you are healthy, happy, and cooperative. You provide your family financial comfort and stability. You are confident with your ability to understand and resolve financial issues. However, you prefer not to be the primary decision-maker. Even though you may

not always choose to be in the forefront, you and your partner share equally in all financial decisions and actions, including working with a financial professional." "FINANCIAL ANALYZER: You have a good understanding of household finances and take initiative in thoroughly researching investment opportunities and tracking financial results. You’re a comparison shopper, an avid saver, and rarely purchase something you can’t afford. Your behavior is reflective of an analytical and disciplined approach to making decisions. Chances are you’ve worked with a financial professional in the past. However, when selecting a financial professional, it’s important to you to work with someone who includes you and collaborates with you." "FINANCIAL INITIATOR: You are selfassured, empowered, and optimistic in most of your endeavors. Specifically, you’re extremely sophisticated in your financial knowledge and confident in your ability to make independent, informed financial decisions. You’re quite clear about your financial goals and typically know how to achieve them. You take the initiative to work with a financial professional you feel has the necessary industry experience and expertise to provide you exceptional advice and guidance." If you know you are an "avoider" or a "dreamer," then it would be wise to get some help from someone who is not. But never turn over all your money decisions and control to

anyone. Check in on your money, insurance needs, investments, and tax situation once in a while, just to say "hello" and assure yourself that everything is going along the way you want it to.

If you are a “collaborator," you are probably keeping track of your financial situation on a regular basis, or at least your other person is sharing the basics with you. This person could be your spouse, partner, family member, friend, or a trusted financial advisor. Make sure the other person understands that you do not want to be left out in the cold.

Financial “analyzers and initiators” are detail oriented people, so make sure you let your advisors know this about you. This will help them be better prepared with as much information as you need to make your decisions. You will want to work with professionals such as attorneys, CPAs, insurance agents, and investment advisors that will not be offended or intimidated by your questioning nature. ¹The Allianz Women, Money, and Power Study, 2006

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

Why Old National Investments? Personal. Professional. Principled. Build the future you envision with a trusted advisor who listens to your goals and helps you create a suitable plan for your life. Sandy has 29 years of experience as a financial advisor and specializes in retirement and income planning. Talk with Sandy Derby about your financial plan at 269-459-0474.

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

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

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

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

April 2019

Easter Brunch

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

HUNDRED DOLLAR HAM 7-8 lb spiral sliced ham 1 cup light brown sugar 1/2 cup pure maple syrup 12 oz pineapple juice

Unwrap ham and place flat side down in a large slow cooker. Throw away glaze packet and any plastic pieces that cover the bone.

1 to 2 sheets frozen puff pastry defrosted

Cook on low for 4 hours. Baste ham with the juices from the bottom of the slow cooker.

2 to 3 cups Gruyere cheese freshly grated (or use any white cheese you like)

Rub brown sugar over the sides. Pour on maple syrup and pineapple juice.

ASPARAGUS TART 1 to 2 Tbsp honey dijon mustard with balsamic vinegar or plain dijon mustard

1 1/2 lbs medium asparagus trimmed*

CREAM CHEESE POUND CAKE

1 ½ cups butter, softened

Preheat oven to 400°F.

1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened 3 cups sugar

Preheat oven to 300°F.

Use an electric mixer to mix both butter and cream cheese until creamy.

Gradually add sugar and beat for 5 minutes, then add 1 Tbsp real vanilla extract eggs one at a time, allowing 3 cups all-purpose flour each to incorporate before adding more. Stir in vanilla. 1/8 tsp salt

6 large eggs

Sift flour and salt and add gradually to the mixer, beating until well blended.

Pour batter into a well greased and floured bundt pan or tube cake pan. Place 2 cups water in an ovenproof container on the rack in the oven next to the cake.

April 2019

Prep a parchment paper lined baking sheet and place the defrosted puff pastry sheets on the baking sheet, (if using TWO: overlap them just an inch in order to connect them.) Using a sharp knife, lightly score the pastry dough 1 inch in from the edges all around to mark a rectangle. Then, using a fork, pierce the dough all around in the center, not the edges. Bake the pastry dough until lightly golden, for about 12 to 15 minutes.

Bake cake at 300°F for one hour and 45 minutes, or until a toothpick can be removed cleanly.

Remove the pastry shell from the oven, let it sit for a minute or two and then spread on the honey dijon mustard with balsamic vinegar (or dijon mustard if that's what you have) and then sprinkle on the Gruyere cheese.

Serve with fresh berries and whipped cream for the perfect spring dessert.

Bake for about 20 to 25 minutes, until the spears are tender. Watch your tart while in the oven. Remove from oven and let cool for a few minutes.

Place pan on a wire rack and cool for 15 minutes, then remove the cake from the pan and complete cooling on the wire rack.

1 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil

Salt and pepper

Trim the bottoms of the asparagus spears to fit crosswise inside the tart shell. Arrange them in a single layer over the Gruyere cheese, alternating ends and tips. Sprinkle on the peas if using. Brush or lightly drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper.

WomensLifeStyleKazoo.com

RE STAURANT REVI E W 5402 PORTAGE Rd | Portage, MI 269.344.7700 | www.bravokalamazoo.com Mon – Thurs: 11:30a – 10p • F: 11:30a – 11p Sat: 5p – 11p • Sun: 10:30 a – 2p & 4p – 9p

BRAVO! has been open since 1987 making it

a Kalamazoo staple. They offer fresh, Tuscaninspired cuisine. It’s a place I have been to many times before and have never had a bad meal!

We walked in on a weekday evening for dinner and were greeted by a friendly hostess who immediately showed us to a table in the dining area. The dining room is large and centered around a large wood fired pizza oven. The décor and lighting are warm and welcoming and the large fireplace adds to the cozy ambiance. Soon after being seated, our wonderful server came to take our drink order. Bravo! brews their own beer, so I went ahead and ordered their PRIZED PORTER, which was delicious!

in front of me that held a tomato basil risotto, asparagus and two large scallops. I was confused at first because the salmon wasn’t on the plate. But then the server plated my salmon on top of the risotto. It was a beautiful presentation. The flavors were wonderful together! Overall the meal was very good. I thoroughly enjoyed it. My only critique (and I’m getting nitpicky here) would be that while the scallops were cooked perfectly, they were a little on the salty side. The salmon’s spices were great, but the fish itself was just a tad overcooked. The risotto was perfect.

My dinner companion ordered the ITALIAN MEATS PIZZA which had tomato sauce, prosciutto, capicola, pepperoni, fresh We decided to start with the CALAMARI, which mozzarella, and parmesan. It looked like our server brought to the table very quickly, something you would get in Italy! He was along with a bread basket. very excited at how it was full of some of his The calamari was good. A lot of times calamari favorite meats. The pizza wasn’t heavy on the is overcooked or rubbery, but these were sauce, which enabled the meat to be the star of neither. They were small, but there were a the pizza. He also commented on how yummy lot of them so that was just fine. The tomato the crunchy crust was. His one and only critique pepperoncini salsa that came with it was a was that the pizza could have been cooked just wonderful accompaniment. a tad longer. The bread was soft, fluffy and very flavorful.

Next out were our entrees. I ordered the SPICED PLANK SALMON. They placed a plate down

We decided to really go for it and order desserts. He chose the OREO CHEESECAKE, and I decided on the CLASSIC TIRAMISU. My

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

Tiramisu was the best I have had in this area. It was light, creamy and had just a hint of the coffee flavor that I love. My companion was overwhelmed by his delicious cheesecake and practically licked his plate clean. We both agreed that the presentation of the desserts was some of the best we had seen.

One of the most impressive things about our night at Bravo! was the service. They were always professional, often suggesting menu items or telling us their favorites. They would do this in a way that wasn’t pretentious but made us feel taken care of. When we would finish a course, they would clear our table, and replace our silverware quickly with a clean set. They refilled our waters constantly and never made us wait long for anything. They definitely went above and beyond to make sure we had a great experience at their restaurant, and we did! The food at Bravo! is delicious. You can’t go wrong with any of their menu items. If you are looking for a meal that you are guaranteed to love, Bravo! is the place for you! Elizabeth Buckley is a hairstylist by day and 24/7 food enthusiast. She visits restaurants in the Kalamazoo area and blogs about her experience at feedmekzoo.com

April 2019

What is Health Coaching

AND WHY IT MAY BE RIGHT FOR YOU!

hen you have questions, concerns, or aspirations about your health and wellbeing it can be tough to know which professional to turn to. It’s easy to feel stuck, overwhelmed, or confused about making diet, exercise, or other lifestyle changes. Many of us have tried to make changes to our health and well-being but they haven’t worked. Perhaps you just had your annual physical, your doctor suggested some lifestyle changes and you aren’t sure how to go about making them. Maybe you’ve had a big transition in your life, like a new baby or career move, and are struggling to find balance. Or maybe you are at your wit's end with dieting and want to find a sustainable way to make holistic, lifestyle changes that aren’t stressful and restricting. Health Coaching, a profession that’s growing in popularity across the country every day, might be just what you are looking to reach your health goals. A health coach is an expert in the health and wellness field who uses a holistic approach to create personalized wellness plans that support and empower you to reach your goals. The Institute for Integrative Nutrition, the largest nutrition school in the country, defines a health coach as “a wellness authority and supportive mentor who motivates individuals to cultivate positive health choices. Health coaches educate and support clients to achieve their health goals through lifestyle and behavior adjustments.”

April 2019

A good health coach is going to listen to your individual needs and turn them into achievable goals that create sustainable, long-lasting changes. They will help you discover what’s most important to you and why. In addition to diet and exercise, they will invite you to explore how relationships, spirituality, mental health, or financial wellbeing can also play an important part in your overall health. Health coaches know that one size doesn’t fit all, and each person has their own unique health needs. They will meet you where you are at without judgment, and take the confusion and stress out of making lifestyle changes. They create a safe space to explore health goals and ideas, ultimately helping you find what works best for you.

health coach, so it’s important to make sure they are certified. It’s also good practice to inquire about other areas of specialty, training, experience, or professional degrees. Some health coaches might specialize in meal planning while others focus on mindful eating. When starting to work with any new health professional, ask what inspires and motivates them, and see if that speaks to you and your needs. Finally, a health coach should be open to working with your other health professionals if needed. They should take information and recommendations from other professionals seriously when helping you make decisions about your health. You can think of a health coach as the expert motivator and supporter outside of your doctor’s office!

It’s important to remember that a health coach is not a doctor. They do not diagnose or treat conditions or disorders. They cannot prescribe, increase, or decrease your medication. They also shouldn’t be a drill sergeant! While they will help hold you accountable to your goals, they should never make you feel stressed out, berated, or pressured to do anything.

Health coaches understand that there are no miracle fixes and small supported steps lead to sustainable results. They are expertly trained in helping you cultivate your best self. Whatever your physical, mental, or emotional health and wellness goals are, a health coach can provide all the ongoing support and motivation you need to reach them!

So, what should you look for in a health coach? Emily Betros is a licensed clinical Most importantly, you want to find someone social worker, certified health coach, and owner of Reclaiming Health, you feel comfortable with, treats you with LLC. She helps clients put together respect, and validates your individual needs. an individualized plan to meet their They should not be pushy or try to sell you a health goals. Emily enjoys hiking, product. They are there for you, not a brand traveling, vegan-izing recipes, and spending time or company. Anyone can call themselves a with her husband and daughter.

WomensLifeStyleKazoo.com

The Ants Go Marching One by One Ants are the number one nuisance pest in the United States. Ants enter your home this time of year seeking shelter and foraging for protein, grease or sweet based foods.

It is important to remove any trails or food sources so the ants do not return.

Here are a few interesting ant facts: Ants are social insects that live in colonies. A colony consists of three different types of ants: the queen, the female workers and males. The queen is the only ant that lays eggs. The males and the queen have wings, the workers do not.

Ants need moisture to survive. There are a few simple tricks to remove moisture from your home. Check your gutters and spouts to make sure water is flowing away from your home. Fix any leaking pipes or fixtures. Last, run a dehumidifier inside your home to reduce any moisture.

TIPS ON ANT CONTROL FOR YOUR HOME AND YARD

Clean

Clean any messes you’ve made, especially in the bathroom and kitchen. Scrub ant entrances and trails with soap and water. Ants leave an invisible pheromone trail to signal other ants that they have found a good source of food.

Dehydrate

Seal

Ants can access your home through even the smallest cracks and crevices. You won’t be able to find them all but take the time to find as many as possible. Seal any potential entry points using caulk or other materials. You can purchase door and window seals at the hardware store.

Remove any Attractants

Do not leave any open food items on counter tops or in cabinets. Pet food should be sealed in containers. Also, take out trash regularly.

HOW CAN YOU GET RID OF ANTS?

Once you’ve taken steps to remove attractants and prevent ants from entering your home, you can implement a treatment plan. Treatment plans should include killing the entire colony. One colony can include millions of ants! Just spraying an ant with a typical ant spray, particularly a repellent spray will only kill a few at best and scatter the colony. You may want to seek professional help from a pest control company.

SERVICES AVAILABLE

269-993-0051

facebook.com/pestprosmi

pestprosmi.com

2520 Azo Ct, Kalamazoo, MI

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

• Home Inspections • Stink Bugs • Wildlife Removal • Spiders • Ants & MORE • Termites • Rodent Control April 2019

Reader's Lounge

The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma

by Bessel Van Der Kolk, MD

Eat to Beat Disease: The New Science of How to Body Can Heal Itself

byWilliam W. Li, MD

We all experience the stress of trauma and know well how it can affect every aspect of life. This book helpfully reviews the different ways trauma occurs, the effects of trauma and the best way in which to treat it. Sometimes medication can reduce symptoms, but what about the underlying causes? Learn how to release in trauma through healthy ways to move past the medications.

The human body is complex and for years scientists and nutritionists have tried to discover how it processes the food we eat. Here is breakthrough research that shows us how our bodies can fight disease and heal themselves based with the food we eat. Learn about bacterial metabolites, Helper T cells and what foods help your Microbiome. Learn to be healthy by giving your body the foods to do the job right.

The Gentle Art of Swedish Death Cleaning: How to Free

The Lifelong Gardener: Garden

by Margareta Magnusson

Gardening is hard work. There’s a fair amount of bending and lifting involved and the knees can take quite the beating. For those who simply cannot live without getting their hands in the dirt, this book offers healthy suggestions to make things easier so you don’t have to give up the joy of gardening.

Yourself and Your Family from a Lifetime of Clutter

We tend to collect things through a lifetime and, at a certain point, the clutter becomes too much. If we don’t tackle it ourselves while we’re alive, it will most certainly become a burden for those we leave behind. This account of the Swedish art of death cleaning is shared by an octogenarian with wisdom and humor; a feel-good read no matter what your level of clutter.

April 2019

with Ease and Joy at Any Age

by Toni Gattone

Junk Beautiful: She Sheds

Hundreds of inspired ideas for your backyard retreat

by Sue Whitney We all need our own special place, whether we are readers, sewers or crafters. The idea of having a space where we can relax and renew is appealing. Men have been asking for their "man cave" for years and now it’s our turn. This book focuses on small sheds and backyard structures, complete with decorating ideas and fun designs.

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 April 1- 5 April 5 Spring Break Hands-on Happenings Edible Book Festival

It’s easy to get listed in our Events Calendar. Our deadline is the 10 th of the month prior to publication. Email us at: calendar@womenslifestylekazoo.com. Please type CALENDAR in the subject line.

on the Run of Greater Kalamazoo and Kalamazoo Area Runners. $60, 2-person team $40, 3-6-person team Kalamazoo Book Arts Festival. 4 – Kalamazoo Museum. 11 am – 4 pm. 8:30 pm. Entering is simple — submit $35. 269-388-2830. runsignup.com/ Spring Break at the museum offers Numbers On Parade, a humorous and a “book” made from food. Anyone can Race/MI/Kalamazoo/KalHavenTrailRun enter and there are no fees or pre-regartistic look at math through a variety April 6 of crafts, picture books, and interactive istration required. Visit the pages Westminster Juried Art Festival below to see entries from previous exhibits. Plus, enjoy a musical concert of instruments and songs from around years and to get ideas. Each includes Westminster Presbyterian Church, a link to galleries of submissions. Free. 1515 Helen Ave. All are invited to the world, theater workshops for 269-373-4938. www.kalbookarts.org view the exhibit from April 6 to May 1 children of all abilities, planetarium (Mondays to Thursdays 9-4, Fridays shows, and three floors of exhibits. April 5 9-12, and Sundays 11-noon. 269-344Come explore with us! Free. 269-373- Art Hop 3966. www.westminsterartfestival.org 7990. www.kalamazoomuseum.org Various Locations throughout April 7 Downtown Kalamazoo. 5 – 9 pm. Art April 1 – 14 Hop is a free event that features new The Tibetan Buddhist Young Artists of Kalamazoo Exhibit Kalamazoo Institute of Arts. Every year, art exhibits in a fun, casual atmosphere. Art of Compassion Numerous galleries and businesses Jewel Heart. 1 – 2:30 pm. A talk by art teachers in the Kalamazoo County in the downtown area host a variety of Demo Rinpoche, Spiritual Advisor at schools (private, public, and charter artwork. Free. www.kalamazooarts.com Jewel Heart in Ann Arbor MI, a tradischools) submit a selection of works tionally trained incarnate Lama who will produced by their students, featured in April 6 introduce Tibetan Buddhist methods an exhibition that is a delight to behold. 2019 Kal-Haven Trail Run In one of our most popular shows each Kal-Kaven Trail State Park. 7 am – 4 for enhancing our ability to experience year, the KIA's galleries are filled with compassion, which, along with wisdom, pm. The Trail Run is a point to point the most creative, colorful, whimsical provides the basis for an enlightened 33.5 mile race on a "rails to trails" art by young artists from K through 8th experience. 734-994-3387. with a crushed limestone surface. www.jewelheart.org grades. 269-349-7775. www.kiarts.org Kal-Haven Trail Run benefits Girls

April 9 Mastermind

Fetzer Center. 11:30 am – 1 pm. Please join us for the April MASTERMIND lunch. Our program will focus on maximizing the benefits of your MASTERMIND membership. $20. Register by April 3rd at 8 pm. www.wlskmastermind.com

April 10 Ladies Night Out

Ladies Library Association. 5 – 7 pm. Join us for a fun evening celebrating women! (Geared toward women in the greater Kalamazoo area.) Grace Anne Kalafut will present a short program at 5:15 p.m. on “Hats, Hair, and History.” Local vendors will sell goods to create a unique shopping experience. There will be appetizers and beverages (including a complimentary glass of wine). $15. 269-344-3710.

April 10 “Thriver – Health Talks”

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

JOIN US FOR THE APRIL MASTERMIND LUNCHEON TUESDAY, APRIL 9, 2019 11:30 A.M. - 1:00 P.M. THE FETZER CENTER

MASTERMIND 101: Maximize Your Membership Learn about the new and exciting benefits of MASTERMIND Membership at our April luncheon. AND enjoy a delicious lunch buffet. Thank you to our April Sponsor, Tishhouse Electric. Register for this event by Wednesday, April 3, 2019 at 8:00 pm: www.wlskmastermind.com/event/april-mastermind-luncheon/

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

April 2019

Life” is a group of people who have had or having health issues and focusing on health for everyone through education. Free and all are welcome. 269-3811986. ThriverTalks@gmail.com

April 11 Luxotica Lounge Cabaret

Healthy For Good

is a revolutionary movement to inspire you to create lasting change in your health and your life, one small step at a time. We are incorporating this into our Heart Walk. Check out our four activity zones:

Eat smart. Add color. Move more. Be well. Southwest Michigan Heart Walk May 18, 2019 Angell Field, 1600 West Michigan Ave Free to walk and celebrate! Donations appreciated. www.KalamazooHeartWalk.org

Think Spring!

Beautiful landscaping doesn’t happen by itself.

269.349.4594 Aeration • Lawn Renovations • New Lawns Mowing • Fertilizing/Weed Control • Moles Spring & Fall Cleanup • Landscaping Projects

April 2019

Papa Pete’s. 8 – 11:45 pm. Luxotica Lounge Cabaret is a lush burlesque show featuring stunning variety talent, with a twist. Enjoy a little circus and a lot of seduction, set to exotic original tunes performed live, that turns classic cabaret on its head. As vibrant as your favorite technicolor tiki cocktail, Luxotica treats you to an evening of gals, games and high energy hip swinging replete with tassel twirling, hoop dance, fire eating, acrobatics and just enough audience participation to get you hooked. $10. 269-388-2196.

be utilized at home or work. Food and drink vendors will be on hand for refreshments. 269-329-4511. www.portagemi.gov/441/Events

April 13 Women’s Summit and Brunch

KCC Binda Performing Arts Center. 10 am – 1 pm. Let's come together and stop apologizing for who we are as women; being fierce, brave, determined, and bold in everything we do. Chat with old and new friends before and during brunch, bid on auction items, and enjoy some words of wisdom from our special keynote and panel speakers (TBA). $25. www.eventa.us/amp/events/battlecreek-mi/4th-annual-womens-summitbrunch

April 13 Antique Bottle & Glass Show

Kalamazoo County Expo Center, Room A. 10 am – 3 pm. Antique bottles of all types including flasks, medicines, fruit Kalamazoo Valley Museum. 4 – 8:30 jars, dairy bottles, and other related pm. Several astronomy-related activities glass. Free appraisals. Admission: for all ages will be presented free Adults $3, Seniors $2, Children under of charge. SWAN is coordinated by 12 are free. For more information Michigan State University’s annual contact John Pastor at 616-581-7005 or Science Festival. Venues around the visit www.kalamazoobottleclub.org state of Michigan will open their doors to help people see and connect with the April 13 beauty and science that lies overhead. One Small Step Chenery Auditorium. 7:30 – 9:30 pm. Free. 269-373-7990. Kalamazoo Concert Band presents www.kalamazoomuseum.org One Small Step with Special Guest April 12 Michael Keeler winner of the youth solo Tanya Tucker competition. 269-303-0849. Kalamazoo State Theatre. 7:30 – 9:30 www.kalamazooconcertband.org pm. A defining voice of country music and a modern-day legend, Tanya Tucker April 17 An Evening at the Air Zoo inspired many female artists who still top the charts today. From the signature Air Zoo. 6 – 8 pm. Enjoy hands-on classic songs to the unforgettable sass science activities, flight simulators, and soul of her voice, Tucker has paved amusement park rides, aerospace and science exhibits, World War II airplane a path in country music and beyond restoration activities, and much more through an unprecedented level of during this free evening at the Air Zoo! success and continues her longevity today due to a natural, undeniable talent. Some of the hands-on activities include creating make-n-take paper copters, 269-345-6500. www.kazoostate.com playing at the slime table, exploring the April 12 electricity table, and building amazing Women Rock structures and contraptions with the Miller Auditorium. 8 – 10:30 pm. Join us Imagination Playground and Keva as we honor powerful female singers Planks. Free. 269-382-6555. sciencefand songwriters who changed Pop estival.msu.edu/Event/View/1090 and Rock & Roll forever. Celebrate the music of Carole King, Holly Knight, Tina April 20 Earth Day 5K & Kids Raccoon Run Turner, Janis Joplin, Aretha Franklin, Pat Benatar, Minnie Riperton and Heart. Kalamazoo Nature Center. 9 am – 5 pm. Start off your day in the Earth Day 5K $24 - $60. 269-349-7759. & Kids’ Raccoon Run! Celebrate Earth April 13 Day at the Kalamazoo Nature Center Portage Green-a-thon with FREE admission day! Learn more Celery Flats Park. 11 am – 3 pm. The at NatureCenter.org 11th annual Green-A-Thon will feature April 20 music, games, free tree seedlings, face painting, activities, giveaways and Kalamazoo Earth Day Festival numerous representatives from over 30 Bronson Park. 12 – 5 pm. Join us in enjoying music, art installations, games local organizations and businesses to for all ages, educational speakers, provide entertainment and education exhibits, & vendors at our yearly event! about environmental ideas that can

April 12 Statewide Astronomy Night

WomensLifeStyleKazoo.com

This year's event is focused on 101,000 Acts of Green. The Bronson Park Earth Day Committee is asking for your help in meeting our goal of 101,000 Acts of Green (there are 101,000 households in Kalamazoo County). Free. 269-381-1574. naturecenter.org/Bronson-Park-Earth-Day

April 20 Egg Hunt

Mayors Riverfront Park. 2 - 4 pm. The Egg Hunt Presented by Kellogg Community Credit Union is a family friendly free event that features an egg hunt divided into 3 age groups (0-3, 4-6, 7-9). When you register at the event, you will be entered to win Special Prizes! We will also have crafts, face painting, and the always popular visits with the Bunny! Free. 269337-8191. kzooparks.org

April 24 The Honestly Tour WSG Lushh

Kalamazoo State Theatre. 7:30 – 9:30 pm. Boney James is bringing his classic smooth jams like “Stone Groove,” “Stop, Look, Listen (To Your Heart),” “Sweet Thing,” and “Butter,” as well as performing songs from his brand-new album “Honestly,” for an incredible night of genre-blurring jazz on April 24th at the Kalamazoo State Theatre. Lushh is made up of musicians with ties to Western Michigan University, this eclectic five-member ensemble ignores all the rules, like all great jazz acts should, and just creates its own sound $29 - $59. 269345-6500. www.kazoostate.com

April 25 – 27 Pinball at the Zoo

Kalamazoo County Expo Center, Expo South. Thurs 2 – 10 pm, Fri 1 – 10 pm, Sat 9 am – 6 pm. Rediscover pinball at this fun event with games for sale and play, auction, tournaments, parts and much more! Admission: Adults $15, Kids ages 5-13 $8, Kids 4 and under are free. for more information call Alex Harmon at 231-519-4514 or email specialwhenlitmi@ gmail.com www.pinballatthezoo.com

April 26 & April 27 Integrative Breathwork Workshops

Lord of Life Church, 9420 Portage Rd., Portage 4/26: 7 pm - 9 pm, 4/27: 10 am - 5 pm. A musical meditation for insight, emotional healing, creativity & renewal. $30/Friday or $75/Saturday. Pre-registration is required. 269-388-2988. www.AdamczAssociates.com.

April 27 & 28 22nd Annual Spring Art & Craft Sale

Kalamazoo County Expo Center, Expo North. Sat 9 am – 4 pm & Sun 10 am – 4 pm. 22 years of fine made and handcrafted, homemade art & craftworks from Michigan and 5 close states. Admission and parking are free. For more information contact Beverly Isaac at 269-349-1185 or email craftshows@ charter.net www.eagletakeflight.com

May 3 Kalamazoo, Rock, Gem, Fossil, Jewelry & Mineral Show

Kalamazoo County Expo Center. Fri 4 – 8 pm, Sat 10 am – 6 pm, Sun 10 am – 5 pm. 60th Show! Explore and discover the world of rocks, minerals, meteorites and fossils; pan for gold, learn about silver smithing, lapidary, facet-ing, play a game, polish a Petoskey stone, crack open a geode; all this and more can be done at the Show. Learn about geology through the many KGMS members’ displays; hands on educational activities provided by Western Michigan University, Kingman Museum and many others. 269-979-3348. Kalamazoorockclub.org

May 3 Art Hop

Various Locations throughout Downtown Kalamazoo. 5 – 9 pm. Art Hop is a free event that features new art exhibits in a fun, casual atmosphere. Free. 269-3425059. www.kalamazooarts.com

May 3 Kalamazoo Film Society Screenings

Jolliffe Theatre, 359 S. Kalamazoo Mall. 5 – 8 pm. Kalamazoo Film Society – Will April 26 screen a selection of award-winning short Entrepreneur Expo films from the 2019 Thomas Edison Black The Foundry. 6 – 10 pm. There will be Maria Film Festival. Local filmmaker over 25+ vendors. These entrepreneurs and Jury's Choice Award winner, Kelly will showcase their business to the Wittenberg will discuss her film “Repregeneral public; giving you the opportunity sentative." Free. Kalfilmsociety.net to discover new and unique products and May 3 services. We are equally excited about our new venue space. Admission is free! Home Free – Timeless World Tour Kalamazoo State Theatre. 8 – 10 pm. The mylesahead06@gmail.com all vocal (a cappella) country music April 26 – 28 sensation Home Free is bringing Nashville Crusader Cup country standards and country-dipped River Oaks Park. 8 am – 8 pm. The 600 pop hits to the Kalamazoo State Theatre players in the Kingdom Soccer Club invite all on Friday, May 3rd. The band comes to Travel, Select, Elite, and Premier teams to town on the heels of their most recent compete in the Kalamazoo Crusader Cup. full-length album release, TIMELESS, This tournament attracts a large, diverse bringing with them new music and new group of teams that creates a fun and humor every night. $40 - $60. exciting atmosphere as well as excellent www.kazoostate.com competition. kingdomsoccerclub.com KALAMAZOO • PORTAGE • BATTLE CREEK ST. JOSEPH • SOUTH HAVEN

April 2019

10th Annual TWO-DAY Extravaganza created for women by women

2019

Thank you for making our 10th Women's Expo a huge success! We look forward to seeing you next year.

April 2019

WomensLifeStyleKazoo.com

boatyardbrewing.com

432 E. Paterson St. | Kalamazoo

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.

Schedule Today! (269) 873-4600 1011 W. Maple St. Kalamazoo, MI 49008 www.kzooacupuncture.com

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

Kalamazoo (2 Locations) mackenziesbakery.com

www.Hardings.com (269) 685-5883 ForensicFluids.com (269) 492-7700

www.LeesAdventureSports.com 311 W Kilgore, Kalamazoo

www.pestprosmi.com (269) 993-0051

LawtonRidgeWinery.com (269) 372-9463

www.Libins.com (269) 381-0746

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

NANCY M. SIMMONS, REALTOR ®

nancysimmons@kw.com 269-342-2618

269-993-0051 PESTPR SMI.C M

SIMPLY STATED - SOMEONE YOU CAN TRUST!

Nancy M. Simmons

www.looksharponline.com 269-657-5646

Comensolis.com (269) 345-6755

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

Midwest Business Exchange (269) 344-8800

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

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

theBetterWorldBuilders.com (269) 383-7862

fb.com/DiscoveryShopKalamazoo (269) 345-0661

12000 N US 131 Hwy, Schoolcraft

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

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

(269) 226-0300

REALTOR ®

nancysimmons@kw.com 269-342-2618 Call for your free Market Analysis

Sawall Health Foods sawallhf.com

V & A Bootery vabootery.com

WomensLifeStyleKazoo.com (269) 569-1647

www.douglasandson.com 269-344-2860

Saturday, May 11

9AM to 2PM Prairie View County Park

Walk for animals!

khsdogwalk.org | #khsdogwalk