Moxie Magazine - July 2021

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Celebrate Summer Find & Follow Your Passion USTA is Back in Kalamazoo Fun and Ice Cream at Apple Knockers

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| FROM THE PUBLISHER |

“Summertime is always the best of what might be.”

– CHARLES BOWDEN

Let s’ celebrate summer!

I have been talking about summer for months now, so it should be no surprise that I am living my best life in July. By the time you read this, we will be taking a long-awaited vacation with my sister and her family. We haven’t seen each other in almost two years and we are both counting the seconds until they fly up from Florida.

This edition of Moxie Magazine is dedicated to celebrating summer. Take a trip to Apple Knockers in Vicksburg with the Kalamazoo Foodie, enjoy some recipes to beat the heat and stay out of the kitchen, and grab Marlita Walker’s new book selection. Take extra time to read our pet safety tips to make sure you and your furry family members can have an enjoyable Fourth.

Heather with her sister and nieces

We also have some exciting news to share this month. Moxie Magazine is glad to welcome Brenda Murphy to our team and we are equally thrilled to have Susie Gordon back in the office. Both women are outstanding account executives and true assets to the Moxie family.

The past sixteen months have been so difficult, but thanks to sacrifice and science we are finally able to return to some of the activities we all enjoy so much. Business is resuming and we are finally moving forward. As we celebrate Independence Day (and summer) I hope you all get out, enjoy life, soak up the sun and delight in some of the freedoms we too often take for granted.

- Heather

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contents

TIPS WHEN FIDO FIREWORKS 612HATES

LIFE

6 | 12 Tips: When Fido Hates Fireworks 8 | Find & Follow Your Passion 10 | Single on Purpose 12 | USTA is Back in Kalamazoo!

24 | The Importance of Connection 26 | Cancel Culture…Are We Redefining History, or Erasing It?

& ICE CREAM AT APPLE KNOCKERS 16FUN

30 | Book Review: This Tender Land

FOOD & DRINK 16 | Summer Food: Fun and Ice Cream at Apple Knockers 22 | Restaurant Review: Kitchen House 18 | Refreshing Summer Cocktails 28 | Chill Out with These Easy Summer Recipes - Tuna Pasta Salad - Doritos Taco Salad

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THE IMPORTANCE OF CONNECTION

- Dr. Pepper Pulled Pork - Banana Pudding

HEALTH & FITNESS 14 | Busyness is Hijacking Your Wellness

BEAUTY & FASHION 20 | Gold: What You Need to Know

THE PEOPLE WHO MAKE IT HAPPEN PUBLISHER: Heather Dombos hdombos@moxiemediagroup.net SALES & MARKETING: Brenda Murphy bmurphy@moxiemediagroup.net Susie Gordon susie@susiebgordon.com LAYOUT & DESIGN: Alicia Pauwels apauwels@moxiemediagroup.net

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

Marlita Walker Demarra D. West WEBSITE: moxiemediagroup.com

BY MAIL: Moxie Media Group, LLC P. O. Box 2284 Portage, MI 49081-2284

THIS PUBLICATION PROUDLY SUPPORTS MASTERMIND

FOR SALES INFO: 269-350-5227

BY EMAIL: info@moxiemediagroup.net editor@moxiemediagroup.net sales@moxiemediagroup.net

July 2021

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12 Tips

WHEN FIDO HATES FIREWORKS Do you love fireworks but find that your furry friend hates them? Does he run and hide, cowering until they’re over?

This is not uncommon. In fact, while fireworks are usually an exciting experience for people, but the loud, almost incessant noise involved can be terrifying for our canine companions. The stress and anxiety they produce are upsetting for dog and owner alike. Here are some things to keep in mind as fireworks season rolls around.

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Your dog’s reaction is completely normal.

As humans, we understand what the Fourth of July means and are prepared for the noises that accompany its patriotic displays.

However, man’s best friend is likely to be startled and terrified by the sudden din that seems to come out of nowhere.

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Many dogs aren’t afraid of fireworks.

Some dogs are more laid-back and others have experienced fireworks often enough that the experience isn’t so stressful for them. They seem to realize that there is no real threat of harm and are not bothered by the experience.

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No one really likes to be startled and, for a dog, that’s exactly what fireworks mean.

Their hearts start pounding, they experience a spike of adrenaline and stress hormones.

Because they don’t know where the noises are coming from and what they mean, this effect can last the entire time.

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Fido’s heightened senses often make fireworks overwhelming. A keen sense of hearing means the sounds of fireworks are that much more intense. In addition to the sounds, your dog’s amplified sense of smell makes them acutely aware of the odors produced by fireworks.

Starting early can help your dog to do better with fireworks. Prior to the Fourth of July (or any gathering where there will be fireworks), try playing recordings of fireworks, slowly increasing the volume each time. It may take months to help your dog become acclimated to the loud sounds, so be sure to start the process early.

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Fireworks and thunderstorms are not the same thing to dogs. Dogs are often able to sense impending thunderstorms, helping them to be less startled. The sudden and infrequent nature of fireworks can make them more upsetting.

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The younger the dog, the better your chances of decreasing their sensitivity.

Exposing your puppy to noises like fireworks and thunder in their early months of life greatly increases the likelihood that these sounds will not upset him later in life.

Distract your dog during fireworks.

Give your dog a special treat or her favorite toy. It might help to create positive associations with fireworks.

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Create a safe space in your home where your dog can feel secure. Many dogs view their crate as a den and feel safest in that area. If your dog isn’t crate trained, her bed can provide the same sense of comfort. Try closing the windows, shutting blinds or curtains, and playing the TV or some music.

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Look into calming wraps or thundershirts. Found at local pet supply stores, these garments are similar to swaddling infants. They can help your dog to feel more secure during anxiety-inducing events.

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Set the example and stay calm. As pack leader, your dog looks to you for comfort and reassurance during times of stress. Remaining calm will help ease your pet’s anxiety.

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Seek medical advice. Some dogs have such an extreme reaction to fireworks that veterinary intervention is required. Your veterinarian will assess the situation and may prescribe medication to help calm your pet’s firework anxiety.

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Clean is not just about looking better, but living better!

SAVE YOUR ENERGY IN JULY Summer air conditioning puts additional strain on our energy bill, so try to save power in other areas.

ENERGY SAVING TIPS:

• Vacuum under & behind the refrigerator to make it run more efficiently.

• Set the water heater at 120 F. Wash clothes in cold water whenever possible.

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• Remind the kids to keep the doors closed.

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|

PEST PROS OF MICHIGAN

|

Find & Follow Your Passion

“There is no passion to be found playing small — in settling for a life that is less than the one you are capable of living.”

NELSON MANDELA

What do you think of when you hear the word passion?

I asked this question on social media recently and got a variety of answers. A friend of mine said, “Passion can only be defined by the one who feels it.”

I agree completely.

For me, passion is a driving force that allows me to live out my purpose. I believe we were all put here to become the best version of ourselves and to love others. So how do we do this well? I think it depends on your values and your priorities. The cool thing about life is we all get to make these choices for ourselves.

I found an awesome definition for passion recently: A willingness to suffer for what you love. Profound.

I bet if I asked 100 people what they were willing to suffer for, I’d get 100 different answers. This simple question tells me so much about a person and their priorities.

This is where self-reflection comes in. Our priorities change as the seasons of our lives change. We are always in flux. New relationships, career changes, family situations all play a role in who we become as people.

The people who have impacted me the most are the ones who live to realize their passions. The ones who go out of their way to improve the lives of the people around them.

The ones who give with no explanations in return. Passion is contagious. People who make a difference in their own lives and the world do so by following their passion.

Take time this summer to find and follow your passion. See where it takes you!

Maria Sorrentino Maria, President at Pest Pros, is on a mission to create a better quality of life for people, which is reflected in how she does business and supports her team. Maria immerses herself in leadership activities allowing her to be a resource for entrepreneurs who want to make a positive impact on the world.

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Take a day away for some “me” time or make it a day with your friends!

Explore the many businesses & organizations of the greater Kalamazoo area communities at the Women’s Lifestyle Expo presented by Moxie.

FASHION • PAMPER • BEAUTY • SHOP • PETS WORKSHOPS • DIY CRAFTS • ARTISTS VENDORS: There is still time to reserve your booth for the 2021 Women’s Lifestyle Expo (269) 488-9780 | info@moxiemediagroup.net | www.moxiemediagroup.com July 2021

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Single On Purpose

BY KIM CARSON

This month, I talked with John Kim, “The Angry Therapist,” about his book Single On Purpose.

KIM: You say that all of us need to be single at some point in our life. Why is that?

JOHN: Because I think we live in a world

where we’re obsessed with just finding love as fast as we can. And if we’re single, we don’t like to sit with ourselves; we think there’s something wrong with that. And so I want to empower singlehood, give it a cape.

I think it’s been vilified for so long.

K: John, I’ve been single for a while, and I think it’s difficult for some people to understand that conscious pause.

J: Single on purpose doesn’t mean single

forever. It doesn’t mean that you’re not looking and you’re not open. It means you’re building a better relationship with yourself. And if you find someone who deserves you and who you want to invest in, that’s great.

K: Right. Exactly! But so many people jump

“I always say that when you’re single, that’s the richest soil for growth. It’s when you’re no longer obligated to anyone except yourself, which is freeing, empowering, not de-powering.”

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from relationship to relationship with not much of a cooling-off period.

J: Yeah, and I think that’s a way of hiding,

a way of running away. For me, it started with a divorce, a marriage that fell apart, a lot because of my lack of tools and being a child. And so, I spent about four years shaking up my whole life. Meaning I started a new career as a therapist, and I wanted to connect to me, get to know who I was. So I bought a motorcycle and started riding it in LA; I started working out, finding myself through fitness and that community. I tell people I found myself through a motorcycle, barbells, and donuts. And I don’t mean to eat your feelings. I mean, give yourself what you need and treat yourself. It’s okay.

K: I think being alone, at least for me, allows

time to figure out what it is that I want and how that would fit into my life.

J: Yeah, absolutely. You do have to investigate where things come from, and I think many people in relationships are reactive; they don’t look inward. And if you’re not doing that, you’re not growing and evolving.

You’re just repeating the past, you know?

K: So how would someone begin to build a healthy relationship?

J: You’ve got to begin with the truth. Begin

with being really honest with yourself. If you’re not honest with yourself, there’s nowhere to go from there. It’s very slippery.

Know where you’re at in your life. What do you want? Some people go on a selfbetterment journey—everything from getting involved in your community, to therapy, to the stuff that’s happening online.

Just getting out of your house, out of your head, and connecting back to who you were or, if you never knew, then who you are.

K: With diversity being so much a focus in our

society, it sort of lays on a whole other layer of understanding of what relationships and intimacies are, right?

J: Yeah, and with the new generation,

monogamy is kind of on trial. There are so many people getting involved in different types of relationships—open relationships and poly (polyamory) and all of this. So when you’re single, I think it’s time for that exploration because when you do get into whatever relationship you want to get into, now there are conditions, and there are agreements. And you don’t have the

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freedom that you had when you were single.

So I always say that when you’re single, that’s the richest soil for growth. It’s when you’re no longer obligated to anyone except yourself, which is freeing, empowering, not de-powering.

K: On your website, you have lots of

different tools for visitors to talk about attract vs. the chase.

J: I spent most of my twenties chasing,

growing up in LA, just chasing shiny things.

I didn’t allow myself to be happy until I got those things. And because those things never came. I was angry and miserable, you know?

And so when you have a better relationship with yourself, you start attracting. If you have a poor relationship with yourself, it’s a lot of desperation and chasing. So when it comes to singlehood, I think a lot of people are chasing instead of attracting. And when you chase, you’re less attractive.

K: (giggling) That is so true; when you chase someone, you’re definitely less attractive to them.

J: I also think we’ve turned into baseball cards.

I think that because of the filters and false

advertising, and hiding behind our phones, we’re not showing up in an honest way. And so we’re setting ourselves up for very short runs, nothing that’s sustainable because there’s a lot of hiding behind the veneer.

I remember when I was dating, you had to actually go up to someone to ask for their phone number, and you had to talk to them on the phone. And you had to think of creative things to do. Today it’s like people are swiping while their date is in the restaurant.

K: So why do we get into unhealthy

relationships, sometimes repeatedly?

J: A lot of our choices we make aren’t really choices; they’re 90% subconscious. They’re based on familiar things. Most of us didn’t enter adulthood un-scarred. Meaning there’s trauma. There’s chaos. There’s all of that. And so the partners that we pick a lot of times we are attracted to the messy or the dysfunctional, and we’re not even aware of that until we no longer want that anymore. And then we take a deep dive, and we actually look at it. So a lot of it is default. A lot of it is just if you don’t make conscious choices, you’re going to default to

unhealthy. You know?

K: Some self-help books say to be loved by someone, you must first love yourself.

Thoughts?

J: I wouldn’t even say love yourself. I’m going to say you have to like yourself because it’s harder to like yourself than to love yourself.

I think loving yourself is a choice. And I think liking yourself has to be earned. And to like yourself, you need to go on some kind of journey. It doesn’t have to be a motorcycle, barbells, and donuts. Whatever your journey is, you have to go on it to get to know who you are to like yourself.

Because when you do like yourself, you feel that you have more value, more substance.

Kim Carson Kim is an Author/Podcast/TV/ Internet personality. Watch and listen for her on WGVU TV’s Kalamazoo Lively Arts & J Schwanke’s Life In Bloom. Learn more at kimcarson.online & fb.com/kimcarson

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USTA is Back in Kalamazoo!

78TH USTA Boys' National Tennis Tournament · August 5-16

E

ach summer the excitement of the USTA Boys’ 18 & 16 National Championships overtakes Kalamazoo, Michigan. This tournament is the single most important event of the tennis year for the nearly 500 outstanding juniors who arrive from all parts of the United States.

Ten days of intense, tough, inspired tennis earn for each of the ultimate winners in singles and doubles the cherished title of United States National Champion. And as a testament to the incredible tennis played in Kalamazoo, the 18’s Champions in Singles and Doubles winners receive an automatic bid to the main draw of the U.S. Open.

Connors, Patrick and John McEnroe, Andre Agassi, Jim Courier, Michael Chang, Bob and Mike Bryan, James Blake, Andy Roddick, and Jack Sock.

Kalamazoo became the home of the Boys’ Nationals 78 years ago when the USTA was forced to relocate the tournament from Culver Military Academy in Culver, Indiana due to WWII. For the first three years in Kalamazoo, the tournament was played on five grass courts next to the railroad tracks where Anderson Athletic Center is now located with 90 player entries. In 1946, Kalamazoo College constructed a new stadium and named it for Dr. Allen B. Stowe, a legendary Kalamazoo College coach, who played a large role in influencing the USTA to move the tournament to Kalamazoo. From the nine original red clay courts to the 11 current hard courts, Stowe Stadium has undergone a number of necessary upgrades over the past 75 years. Incredible American tennis players have played, fought, won, and lost on the courts of Stowe Stadium, including Rod Laver, Arthur Ashe, Pete Sampras, Jimmy

Community support is a crucial part for the Nationals to ensure the success and sustainability of the tournament in Kalamazoo. One of the founding community sponsors, WKZO, broadcasted the tournament finals for the first time in 1953 and

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The Boys’ Nationals plays a large role in the impact sports events have on the Kalamazoo community. The tournament has a 1-million-dollar annual economic impact to the community and downtown restaurants experience significant uptick in local and visiting patrons during the tournament. Approximately 2,000 total room nights are sold during the event each year.

continues to provide radio journalism for the tournament to this day. The Boys’ Nationals relies on the community for financial support and physical support through the efforts of our volunteers.

The tournament is always seeking new companies and organizations to partner with as sponsors or advertisers. Volunteer positions are always available and those interested in volunteering for the tournament this year or in the future are encouraged to visit ustaboys.com and click on “Volunteers.”

Boys’ Nationals tournament staff, sponsors and volunteers are delighted to be back for the 78th Nats at the Zoo, August 5-16! While the event will not be open to the public (based on COVID-19 protocols at time of publication), spectators are encouraged to live stream the action at the USTA Boys Facebook page.

Catch the action, live-streaming August 5-16 at fb.com/ustaboys

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WOMANUP

&

CELEBRATE

KALAMAZOO

SAVE THE DATE Virtual awards ceremony & networking

September 29, 2021 | 12:30 PM PLEASE JOIN US IN HONORING THE

2021 WOMEN OF COURAGE AND ACHIEVEMENT

Belinda Tate

Pamela Enslen

For details & sponsorship options, visit www.miwf.org Questions? Contact Judy Welch at jwelch@miwf.org We are excited to (virtually) see you there!

July 2021

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Busyness IS HIJACKING OUR

Wellness

BY DEMARRA WEST

I just got back from an extended four-day weekend at Civana Wellness Resort & Spa in Carefree, Arizona, which affirmed the importance of stillness in a myriad of ways. In addition to clean food, a world-class spa, and decadent sunsets, Civana offers more than seventy classes a week, such as Feng Shui, Primal Flow Yoga, Sound Healing, Journaling for Manifestation, and hikes in the Sonoran Desert, which provided such a wellrounded wellness experience that I will surely visit again.

Outside of the beautiful pure healing only a desert hike can provide, the most impactful class I took was called human BEING. The course was all about getting us to think of busyness as a disease and the antithesis to creating space for ourselves to enjoy this one precious life we’ve been given, as in the words of Mary Oliver.

Not to mention interfere with our healing, interrupt our ability to know ourselves more deeply, block creativity and abundance, and limit our joy.

I write this as an om to me and the newfound permission I’m giving myself to break free from twenty-four years of working myself to the bone. I used to pride myself on all I was doing. I thrived on it. I longed for it. Quite frankly, at times being in awe that I was able to take on all I did.

Busyness is so intricately connected to my identity that “Achiever” is in my top five

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StrengthsFinder. My mantra in life was to work hard, play hard, which I have truly done, having some intensely pleasurable moments along the way. However, no matter how much I spent time investing in my wellness, I consistently found myself fatigued and deeply anxious about the many tasks to which I had committed. And miraculously, nothing major had slipped through the cracks…until recently.

I had two major things that I had invested a great deal in fail for the sole reason of being overbooked. What I know for sure is that it was the universe’s way of getting my attention. It was time for me to slow down once and for all and truly tap into an expansive mindset and identity that wasn’t defined by all my external achievements.

Being addicted to busyness has brought me many gifts, including traveling the world, having abundance in my business, and partnering with amazing women. It has also, however, cost me a great deal. Most importantly, time was lost with the people I love; memories slipped through the cracks because of distractions; and joy I missed out on, I’ll never be able to redeem.

I have forgiven myself for all that I lost because the alternative is suffering. I vow, however, to interrupt these destructive patterns because I plan to enjoy as much of the rest of this life I’ve been given, and if you can relate to any of this, I invite you to join me.

What better way to start the month of July than by committing or recommitting to stop being so busy?

Take the 31 days July offers us to dedicate each day to slowing down.

There are countless ways you can give yourself the gift of presence.

HERE ARE A FEW IDEAS:

• Spend the day at the beach • Ground yourself barefoot in the grass • Walk-in nature • Be grateful • Take your time to respond to emails

For the mothers out there: as you are working your 31-Day Wellness Month plan, keep your children in mind because chances are if you’ve been too busy, they probably are too.

I guarantee if you invest in this time, you’ll thank yourself for it.

Demarra D. West MA, LPC, PCC, RYS

Demarra is a certified yoga teacher, Reiki master, licensed therapist, and entrepreneur who has a deep passion for all things women and wellness.

She is the founder of Be Well Beautiful Woman, a global platform created for women to heal, have abundant joy, and immense business success.

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| THE KALAMAZOO FOODIE |

Summer Food

S

FUN AND ICE CREAM AT

APPLE KNOCKERS

BY RACHEL KIRTLEY, THE KALAMAZOO FOODIE

ummer is in full swing, and the hot temps have us craving ice cream! Kalamazoo and the surrounding

areas have many amazing places to grab ice cream this summer. One of our personal favorites just so happens to be right here in Vicksburg.

Apple Knockers in Vicksburg is family-owned by Paula and her two daughters, Angela and Rita. Located in the historic village of Vicksburg, Apple Knockers has been a local favorite since 2009. They offer 50+ flavors of ice cream from Plainwell Ice Cream, made in Plainwell, Michigan, and Ashby’s Sterling Ice Cream, made in Shelby Township.

In 2012 MLive.com conducted a statewide search for the best ten ice cream parlors. Apple Knockers is proud to have been voted the third best ice cream parlor in the entire state of Michigan! They offer hand-dipped scoops and baby scoops if you are looking for something lighter, cake or sugar cones, in a plain dish, or regular and large waffle cones and bowls. You can also get shakes, malts, smoothies, root beer floats, old-fashioned sodas, specialty sundaes, or a summer classic, the banana split!

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APPLE KNOCKERS ALSO OFFERS SOME DELICIOUS FOOD. The menu reflects an

array of homemade family recipes, from their Mean Jean Pasties and Mamma’s Mac n Cheese to traditional comfort food like their ¼ pound all-beef hot dogs and hamburgers.

Their pasties are made from a Yooper Family Recipe! They offer them in Beef or Chicken, and you can get them to go. The only question is, do you prefer ketchup or gravy?

If you are in the mood for something different, Apple Knockers offers several styles of hot dogs, from chili cheese to Flint-style dogs, plus hamburgers, pulled pork sandwiches, chicken salad, pretzel poppers, spicy fried pickles, and more! They also offer kids meals. And last but not least, if you aren’t in the mood for ice cream, they offer other options to please your sweet-tooth, like frozen, dipped bananas, pecan bread pudding, caramel apple nut pie.

You can walk in to order, or order online or call ahead for curbside pickup.

Pasties are a pot pie without the pot, basically a handheld pie.

I took my mom, sister, niece, and nephew, and they had a blast! We tried their chicken salad wrap, burger, spicy fried pickles, pretzel bites, Chicago dog, chicken bites and waffle fries, and of course, some ice cream cones and sundaes! Everything was delicious, and I can’t wait to get back there to try some more menu items.

There are a few tables on the inside, but their adorable patio is our favorite.

It is set up like a pirate ship with beautiful flower beds, a captain’s wheel, and plenty of picnic tables for seating.

Apple Knockers is the perfect spot for lunch or just to grab some delicious ice cream on a hot summer day! Fun for kids and adults alike.

Rachel Kirtley Rachel has worked in all levels of the food industry for over a decade.

She is currently a Social Media Influencer, Content Creator and Restaurant Reviewer. You can visit her at thekalamazoofoodie.com.

220 W. PRAIRIE ST VICKSBURG, MI

July 2021

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REFRESHING

Summer Cocktails

FROZEN GIN & TONIC

THE HURRICANE

1/4 cup cucumber, sliced 4 oz gin 2 oz fresh lime juice 4 oz tonic water 2 oz simple syrup 2 ½ cups ice

First, squeeze the limes for the juice and slice about five 1/2” thick pieces of cucumber.

Next, add all of the ingredients into a blender and blend until smooth!

MERMAID LEMONADE 1/4 cup blue curaçao 1 cup white rum 2 cup lemonade 4 lemon slices 8 maraschino cherries

Put 1/4 cup ice in each glass, then add a splash of blue curaçao, 1/4 cup rum, and another 1/4 cup ice.

Pour over 1/2 cup lemonade.

Skewer a lemon slice and 2 maraschino cherries on a paper umbrella or toothpick and garnish drinks before serving.

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July 2021

2 oz light rum 2 oz dark rum 2 oz pineapple juice 1 oz orange juice 1/2 oz fresh lime juice 1 Tbsp simple syrup 1 Tbsp grenadine Garnish: Orange Slice and Cherry Shake all ingredients in a cocktail shaker with ice.

Strain into a hurricane glass then garnish with orange slice and cherry and serve.

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IT’S A SELLER’S WORLD.

THINKING ABOUT SELLING? NOW MAY BE THE PERFECT TIME. IN TODAY'S HIGHLY COMPETITIVE MARKET, YOU’LL NEED STRONG, PROFESSIONAL GUIDANCE TO LEAD THE WAY.

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GOLD WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

BY DOUG MITCHELL

G

old has been used since ancient times.

Because of the malleability and durability of gold, it is a perfect suitor for jewelry-making; when pure gold is exposed to air, it cannot be oxidized.

However, the jewelry we love and wear isn’t usually made of 100% pure gold. The other metals used to create our favorite hues and tones are what make our most sacred pieces vulnerable to oxidation and tarnishing while also increasing the strength and durability for long-lasting wear.

When shopping for jewelry, there are some standard terms we know and love. For example, when you hear the word “gold,” you know that piece is going to be rich in value. But when a jeweler starts talking about different karats and even platings, how do you know which one is right for you?

We’ve got the inside scoop, and we’re here to have you feeling like an insider in no time!

PURITY: STAMPING AND KARATS Pure gold is found within the earth. While not usually found in large quantities, it is often mined, panned, and sifted from soils. Pure gold has impeccable malleability, making jewelry made from pure gold a poor candidate for longevity.

Pure gold is not strong enough to hold the intended shape and will not prevent the gemstones from falling out.

Most gold used for jewelry is actually a gold alloy with other metals added to strengthen the metal or change the color. Metals used to increase the strength are copper, silver, zinc, and nickel. The percentile of metal added will determine the karat of gold.

There are different markings on jewelry to indicate the purity of the metal used. There are also different markings depending on where

the jewelry was created. There are two main markings you will find: US and European.

US KARAT MARKING 24K 18K 14K 10K

T-F 11a-5p & Sat 10a-3p 20

July 2021

EUROPEAN MARKING 1000 750 585 416

PURITY/ % OF GOLD 100% 75% 58.35% 41.6%

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GOLD-FILLED VS. GOLD-PLATED

Some other gold-jewelry terms you may be familiar with are gold-filled and gold-plated. If you love the look of yellow gold, but don’t love the price, these options may be a good alternative for you. While both of these jewelry types signify that the piece is not solid gold, they are different in the way they are created.

G O L D-F I L L E D

To make gold-filled pieces, the core metal is sandwiched between two layers of gold alloy, which is then heated and passed through a roller several times - a process that both bonds the metals together and thins the sheet out.

SHE MEANS

BUSINESS

G O L D-P L AT E D

To make gold-plated pieces, an electric current is used to negatively charge the base metal and positively charge a solution containing gold ions. The positive gold ions are attracted to the negative charge of the core metal, slowly forming a layer of gold on top of the core.

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COLORS OF GOLD

Y E L LO W G O L D

Alongside different purities, there are also different colors of gold we’ve come to know and love. For example, different purities of yellow gold will change the appearance due to the varying amounts of added metals: the more pure yellow gold, the brassier the appearance.

WHITE GOLD

White gold, on the other hand, is a bit more complicated. It is similar to yellow and rose gold in the way that metals such as palladium and nickel are added to achieve a more “white” appearance; however, in most cases, to finalize the look and give it the bright-silver appearance white-gold lovers are looking for, the jeweler will dip the piece into rhodium for a long-lasting finish.

There are so many metal options for the jewelry pieces we adore. Although the price may vary depending on purity, the value of the piece is dependent on you! Each piece you wear tells a story.

Knowing differences in colors, purity, and plating will help you find the perfect fit for your style.

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ROSE GOLD

A popular gold choice currently hot on the market is rose gold. The gorgeous pinkish appearance of this metal is achieved using varying amounts of iron and copper. As a result, some rose gold appears pinker while others have more of a blush-pink appearance.

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July 2021

21

| RESTAURANT REVIEW |

F

or this month’s review, I ventured out to an establishment that has repeatedly been recommended and highly praised, KITCHEN HOUSE, a locally focused and Italian-inspired restaurant located in Richland.

Upon arriving, a very friendly hostess seated our party, and I had a few minutes to admire the small but electric restaurant.

A large chalkboard on the wall explained where many of the food items used in their dishes are sourced, and I was delighted to see many local farms listed. There was an inviting bar on one side of the room, which featured an impressive wine rack that took up a half wall and contained a large assortment of wines.

I ordered a glass of red wine and scanned the menu to figure out my dinner.

My husband was my dining partner, and we decided to start with the FRESH MOZZARELLA & PROSCIUTTO. While I was unsure how they would be presented, all of the ingredients sounded like something we would enjoy.

A short time later, I was delighted to see pieces of prosciutto wrapped around melted mozzarella, with delicious crostini and a mound of heirloom cherry tomatoes topped with balsamic on the side of the plate.

We each took the crostini, placed the cheesefilled prosciutto on it, then topped it with

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the tomatoes. It was heavenly! I have been thinking about this plate ever since our meal.

I had a tough time deciding on my main entrée. I watched as other tables had huge bowls of pasta that looked amazing, so I almost went that route but ended up going with their CRISPY CHICKEN THIGHS AGRODOLCE.

I also had heard that their MASCARPONE MACARONI AND CHEESE was worth ordering (award-winning in fact!), so I ordered a side of that as well.

My husband went with the 12OZ NEW YORK STRIP, and because we can never resist them, he ordered a side of FRIED BRUSSELS SPROUTS. We were incredibly impressed when our meal was served! My chicken thighs were so exciting. My plate had three large chicken thighs that sat on a large bed of Brussels sprouts bacon slaw. The chicken was crispy and had an excellent sweet and sour taste to it. It was tangy, but added with the slaw made it perfect.

I could totally see how their Mac and Cheese won the award for the Kalamazoo area’s best. It was creamy, rich, and full of incredible flavors.

The “side” was large enough that I could have easily had enough for a whole meal.

My husbands’ steak was so enviable. Large and cooked to the perfect medium-rare, it was served with fingerling potatoes, artichokes, red onion, and feta. I tried a bite, it had incredible flavor, and it literally melted in my mouth. Delightful!

The side of Brussels sprouts was so huge, it would have been enough at least for a family of four to share. They were just crispy enough and had tiny bits of prosciutto mixed in and were topped with balsamic to add just a touch of sweetness.

Trust me when I say this was a fantastic dinner. It is for sure one of my favorite finds in a long time. The service was excellent, the food was elevated, yet the atmosphere was comfortable and casual.

The prices were reasonable, and the amount of food we got on each plate was incredibly impressive. We each took home enough food for at least one more meal each.

Visit Kitchen House in Richland. I promise you will not regret it!

Elizabeth Precopio Elizabeth Precopio is a hairstylist by day and 24/7 food enthusiast. She visits restaurants in the Kalamazoo area and blogs about her experience at feedmekzoo.com

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Fun with friends.

New adventures.

Making a difference.

You’re ready to go and Girl Scouts is ready for you.

July 2021

23

WAYS TO SOW KINDNESS AND CONNECT! 1 Reach out to a friend (old or Throughout history, there have been many disconnects among mankind. In today’s world, it is easier than ever to see the world from another’s eyes. With connection at our fingertips, we can see the worst and best in those around us. Sometimes, it is easy to get lost in only finding the differences, but it’s important to see how we are the same. With the ability to talk to one another so casually, we can forget to do it at all. Instead, we are scrolling through news articles and social media, seeing the bad more than the good, and turning our backs on one another.

It is necessary that we remember that we are not alone. There are others around us, and with the hope of a post-covid world, it is important now more than ever to reach out.

Stop seeing sides and come together for a brighter future. The promise of more is out there, and we have the power to achieve it.

What do I mean by coming together?

Well, it can manifest in a lot of ways.

Connecting with someone can be as easy as smiling at the stressed-out cashier in the grocery store or as time-consuming as volunteering for a nonprofit.

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Our cultures may differ, but at the center of it, we are all human. Capable of spreading love and of sowing hate, creating and destroying, understanding and distrusting. Being a part of society can be hard, and dealing with others – even harder. This life is ever-changing, and with it come many challenges, but ones we all face. Difficulties that can be lessened with kindness and connection.

I get it; coming back into the world and joining civilization after a year in hibernation can really take a lot out of you. Especially with the uncertainty and chaos of moving forward, but together, we got this!

Hannah Reuter Hannah graduated from WMU in 2015 with a degree in Economics and currently resides in Portage. In her free time she enjoys strumming the guitar and painting. She is the author of two YA books under the pseudonym, H.B. Catherine. You can find information on her books and writing at hbcatherinewriting.com.

new!) online or in-person to just chat about life. Sometimes, a little small talk is all you need. Join a class, club, or group in your area; think of; flower clubs, chess clubs, woodworking groups, softball/ sports teams, painting classes, music lessons, cooking clubs.

2 Head out to a local event and look around. With the start of summer comes the reemergence of the farmers’ markets, fairs, festivals, craft shows, and live music outings. Don’t feel comfortable in crowds yet? Most events are now available virtual as well!

3 Read a book or listen to a podcast

about a subject you may be biased about – learning more about the way we perceive the world and how others view it can really challenge your beliefs!

4 Support a small business or artist!

This puts the money back in your community and can really help the owners thrive as well.

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|

ONE WOMEN’S OPINION |

Cancel Culture…

ARE WE REDEFINING HISTORY, OR ERASING IT?

BY HEIDI MCCRARY

“HISTORY IS WRITTEN BY THE VICTORS.” Attributed often to Winston Churchill, this quote summarizes how history is often viewed, especially when it comes to politics and world affairs. One only has to look at the Tulsa Race Massacre—a horrifying piece of history that involved mobs of whites attacking the black residents of Tulsa, Oklahoma in 1921, killing hundreds in the process and burning the business district to the ground. This attack is attributed to being the single worst incident of racial violence in American history. Yet, it wasn’t until recently that we were collectively made aware of this ugly piece of history.

How do we learn from history if we are only reading the whitewashed version?

Locally, the announcement of the removal of the Fountain of the Pioneers from Bronson Park spurred anger and heated debates from both sides. Designed in 1937, the fountain featured an armed white man standing before a kneeling American Indian and was hailed by many as a modern work of art, even gathering critical acclaim from Frank Lloyd Wright. But more recently, some saw the fountain as racist and memorializing genocide. In 2018, the City of Kalamazoo removed the fountain to the dismay and disappointment

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of many who viewed the decision as erasing history and catering to a select few.

Where is the thin line between cultural evolution and erasing history, and is there a compromise? We need to acknowledge that those who have ancestors in America who have suffered at the hands of others deserve to walk through a public park without having to explain to their children the statues and monuments celebrating the demise of their ancestors and culture. Can we still acknowledge these pieces of historical art without insulting differing cultures?

Of course, we can.

Moving questionable historical pieces out of public parks and into museums and historical grounds, where the piece can be depicted along with proper data and intellectual content, is a good start.

The literary world is also dealing with Cancel Culture. One book under the spotlight is the epic novel “Gone with the Wind,” with many calling for the book to be pulled from libraries and the movie removed from viewership. Actress Whoopie Goldberg argued that Americans should be

careful about retracting part of our history and instead suggested that “Gone with the Wind” could feature a disclaimer at the beginning of the film. Goldberg is absolutely correct.

Censorship is wrong on any level. Historical literature and films can and should remain with proper context. And rightly so, HBO Max has reportedly said that it will resume airing “Gone with the Wind” along with the context surrounding its content.

In another positive move, the family of Dr. Suess stopped future publications of several Dr. Suess books deemed racist. It is important to note that these books are not banned. They are simply not printing future editions. It was the right decision.

Cancel Culture isn’t about erasing history; it’s about redefining how we view it. And it’s damn time children learned of the Tulsa Race Massacre from history books.

Heidi McCrary Heidi is a writer and a regular contributor to Moxie Magazine.

Her novel, “Chasing North Star” is available at Kazoo Books, This is a Bookstore, and online wherever books are sold. Follow Heidi at heidimccrary.net and fb.com/HeidiMcCraryAuthor

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July 2021

27

Chill Out WITH THESE EASY SUMMER RECIPES

I love to cook and eat good food, but when the temperatures are in the high 80’s and 90’s, I love to prepare “good enough” food. Let’s be honest; no one wants to be stuck in the kitchen during the summer. We want easy, delicious, and refreshing food. So this month, I’m going to open my recipe book and share some of my favorite recipes to beat the heat.

TUNA PASTA SALAD 1 lb elbow macaroni 1½ C frozen peas, thawed ½ C onion, chopped 2 celery ribs, chopped 3 Tbsp sweet pickle relish 1 (12 oz) can water-packed tuna, drained 11/3 C mayonnaise

salt and pepper to taste

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions, adding the peas during the last minute of cooking time.

Drain and rinse under cold water. Drain again and add to a large bowl.

Add remaining ingredients and stir to mix.

Refrigerate until ready to serve. TIP: Save more time for summer fun; make it a day in advance.

DORITOS TACO SALAD 1 Head Lettuce shredded 16 oz bottle Catalina dressing 2 tomatoes, chopped 1 onion, chopped 2 C shredded cheddar cheese 1 (16 oz) can of kidney beans 1½ lbs ground beef, browned and drained 1 (15.5 oz) bag Nacho Cheese Doritos, crushed Brown hamburger and drain off grease.

Mix ground beef, kidney beans, lettuce, dressing, tomatoes, onion, and cheddar cheese in a large bowl.

Refrigerate until ready to serve.

Mix crushed Doritos into the salad immediately before serving.

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DR. PEPPER PULLED PORK

TIP Add some crunch to your sandwich by adding some fresh slaw, pickles, or french fried onions.

3-4 lb pork shoulder (Boston Roast) McCormick’s Grill Mates Applewood Rub 1 (12 oz) can Dr. Pepper soda Sweet Baby Ray’s Honey BBQ Sauce

Buns

Season pork with your rub on all sides. Make sure to massage the rub into the meat!

Place pork in slow cooker and pour in Dr. Pepper.

Cook on low for 10-12 hours (or High for 7-8 hours.)

Remove pork, and using 2 forks, shred the meat.

Combine with the BBQ sauce and serve on buns.

BANANA PUDDING 6-8 bananas, sliced 2 (12 oz) box of vanilla wafers (reserve around 30 wafers for topping) 2 (3.4 oz) boxes of instant vanilla pudding 6 C whole milk In a dish of your choice (I alternate between a trifle bowl and a baking dish), layer half of the bananas, then half of the vanilla wafers.

Top with half of the prepared pudding. Repeat this process for a second layer. Finally, top the entire dish with vanilla wafers.

Refrigerate for at least four hours.

Enjoy!

July 2021

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|

BOOK REVIEW |

{

MARLITA WALKER REVIEWS

THIS TENDER LAND

BY WILLIAM KENT KRUEGER

}

“The tale I am going to tell is of a summer long ago. Of killing and kidnapping and children pursued by demons of a thousand names. There will be courage in this story and cowardice. There will be love and betrayal.

And, of course, there will be hope. In the end, isn’t that what every good story is about?”

And so begins twelve-year-old Odie’s powerful saga of adventure, of longings, of survival, of kindness, of evil, of friendship, of adversity, and of course, hope. In the summer of 1932, four desperate orphans race away from a place of terror and abuse, the Lincoln Indian School, set on the banks of the Gilead River in Minnesota. Along with adventuresome Odie and his more sensible older brother Albert, they bring along their best friend Mose as well as heartbroken little Emmy (who had recently lost her mother).

As these self-titled “Vagabonds” begin their journey, their sole purpose is in fleeing to the Mississippi River and heading south, not really having a clear purpose or destination, just to get away from the oppression they had been under and a deadly accident that had occurred. Literally running for their lives, none of the children have any idea what dangers they might encounter in that stolen canoe or if they have the fortitude to survive on their own.

After publishing “Ordinary Grace” in 2013, William Kent Krueger followed with a manuscript somewhat related to that novel which he entitled “This Tender Land.”

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However, after some consideration, he abandoned the project to begin again with a different concept. This extraordinary tale is the result of that re-write. Kudos to this author who knew when to “abandon ship” and pick up the pieces in a different way.

It says something to me about Krueger and how he develops his characters to also “pick up the pieces” when they run into adversity.

Adversity shows up in many forms to these wanderers as America is digging out of the effects of the Great Depression. They had already experienced it in the treatment of the Indian children being stolen away from their parents and sent to the orphanage.

The children also saw adversity in the many communities along the Mississippi, where tent cities had sprung up—Hoovervilles for the homeless. They saw it in the anger and bitterness of many who turned to drink or crime, & the Vagabonds were sometimes the recipients of that rage. But they were also the recipients of grace and love from strangers who had overcome adversity and chosen a different way to walk through it. Some would call this the American Spirit. Others refer to it as the grace and healing of God.

Any real adventure involves change when adversity hits and circumstances shift. As the Vagabonds travel, their friendship with one another evolves. First, they drift apart, then draw close. They work together to formulate a plan to get to relatives in St. Louis. They lean on one another, then open their circle and begin to trust others. They take risks. They grow up. Odie realizes this as he muses, “It began to feel to me as if what had been broken was coming together again, but I knew it would never be exactly the same. With every turn of the river, we were changing, becoming different people, and for the first time, I understood that the journey we were on wasn’t just about getting to Saint Louis”.

Hoping we all have the ability to face our summer adventures with Odie’s wise perspective.

Marlita Walker Marlita is a native Michigander, who returned back to the area after 18 years spent in IL & PA. When not on cruising adventures with her hubby in their vintage Roadtrek camper van; she relaxes by re-arranging her home decor, walking with friends, and connecting with her 10 grands who live in TN and CA. Read more book reviews at litaslines.blogspot.com.

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July 2021

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AUGUST 6-15*

* Sorry, only family members of contestants will be allowed to observe the competition at venues at this time due to Covid-19 restrictions.

Follow livestream action on: Facebook.com/ustaboys View our Tournament Program on: ustaboys.com We’re sad you can’t watch incredible tennis while enjoying blueberries & cream this year, but we can’t wait to see you next year! Mark your calendars:

August 5-14, 2022!

USTA Boys’ 18 & 16 National Championships