Express Yourself - August 2015

August 2015 Greater Kalamazoo

FREE

Sensational Salsa

Sip & Sides

Express

Yourself

Essential • Enlightening • Entertaining WomensLifeStyleK azoo.com

Tackling New Sports

As of Monday, August 10th our offices will be located in our NEW BUILDING at

2854 S 11th Street Kalamazoo, MI 49009

OB-GYN, P.C. is devoted to treating and improving the health of women during all stages of life.

Our experienced staff of 6 physicians and 2 Nurse Practitioners offer these services: Gynecology: • Annual Exams (using Thin Prep Pap) • GYN medical visits • Adolescent GYN services • Pelvic and Breast Exams • Colposcopy • Cryosurgery • Endometrial Biopsy • Vulvar Biopsy • IUD insertion / removal • LEEP • STD testing • In – Office GYN Ultrasound • Birth Control • Pre and Post-Menopausal Questions • Family Planning • STD counseling • Adolescent Health • Nexplanon Insertion/ Removal • Endometrial Ablation

• Infertility Counseling and Testing • Management of abnormal pap and biopsies • Management of Menopause by North American Menopause Society certified providers • Management of menstrual problems • Pre-conceptual counseling • Screening and treatment of sexually transmitted disease • Screening and treatment of vaginitis Pregnancy Care: • Prenatal Visits and Exams • Proper Nutrition • Discomfort • Labor And Delivery • Postpartum Depression • Routine OB Care • In Office Ultrasound • In Office Fetal Monitoring

We welcome NEW PATIENTS! Call to schedule your appointment today.

We also offer these cutting edge techniques: Laparoscopic Surgical Techniques and Essure(TM). Four of our physicians, Drs. Davis, Johnson, Riethman and Sharp are certified in non-invasive hysterectomy treatment using DaVinci robot technology.

269.345.6197 2

August 2015

www.obgynpc.com WomensLifeStyleKazoo.com

The People Who Make It Happen...

Publisher: Darlene Mohr-Clifford dclifford@wlskazoo.com Editor: Jennie Holmes editor@wlskazoo.com Contributing Writers: Heather Ratliff Heidi McCrary Kathleen Irish Kelly Duggan Sandy Derby Sales Manager: Ruth Ann Dibert radibert@wlskazoo.com Account Executive: Brenda Murphy bmurphy@wlskazoo.com Layout & Design: Jennifer Chartier jchartier@wlskazoo.com Photography: K. Redmond Photography www.facebook.com/kredmondphotography

Office Manager: Patty Clifford pclifford@wlskazoo.com Contact Us: 269-350-5227 Sales Info: 269-271-1032

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

By Email: info@wlskazoo.com editor@wlskazoo.com sales@wlskazoo.com Website: www.womenslifestylekazoo.com

August 2015 LIFE

6 10 Things to Do in August 7

8

18

The Science of Attraction The Benefits of Artful Expression Creative Parenting: Rethinking How You Discipline

STYLE 5 7

12

16

Entertaining Ideas Don't Go Stale A Step Beyond Finding and Displaying Original Art

HEALTH & BEAUTY 10 Make a Colorful Statement You're the Expert 17

FOOD & DRINK 19 Bal Anderson Wants to Spice Up Your Life!

Bal’s No Butter Chicken 22

Mexican Fiesta Pork Verde Pozole Spiced Tres Leches Cake Tomato, Chive and Mango Salsa

LOOK WHO’S TALKING 14 Making the Big Play: Women in Sports

LEARN 24

26

27

30

Your Go-To Dance Move: The Cupid Shuffle Poetry Basics Haven’t “Botany” Plants in a While?

Reader’s Lounge

COMMUNITY NEWS & HAPPENINGS 15 Local Pick of the Month 28 Calendar

Greater Kalamazoo

August 2015

3

Editor's Letter

T

his month’s theme seems very simple: Express Yourself. When I dig into that phrase – the hole starts to widen and get deeper – like an amazing, exciting bottomless pit that I can’t wait to jump into. What we wear, how we decorate our home, what we do to fill our free time, our career, even our favorite drink are expressions of who we are. How dull our world

would be if we all expressed ourselves in the same way.

There are so many ways to express yourself. Experiment with multiple mediums or activities. I encourage you to try something new: keep a journal, get involved with a charitable organization discover your artistic skills, take a class, or explore musical channels through dancing or singing. Whatever you choose, embrace it – but don’t be tied down to just one!

Be sure to check out the articles on different ways we can express ourselves. I’m impressed by the local women who are

Express yourself so you can respect yourself.

Madonna

“tackling” what have been traditionally men’s sports. You are who you are – don’t be afraid to express it!

Jennie Editor

p.s.

Next month is our annual She Means Business edition which includes features of successful local women. Don’t miss this opportunity to spread the word about you or your business!

Contact us at 269-271-1032 for details.

4

August 2015

Simplicity is the glory of expression.

Walt Whitman

WomensLifeStyleKazoo.com

Entertaining Ideas Helpful tips to host an unforgettable bash that is both stress-free and fun for everyone.

Set the Scene

To start, here are some ideas from Stephen Cardino at Macy’s for setting the scene by infusing the season’s trends and the best that summer has to offer.

Blue is a hot hue this year and there are many ways to apply the color of the sea to your summer tablescape.

For a subtle look, try soft blue dinnerware layered with neutral table linens and flatware. To achieve a bolder statement, choose plates and serveware in indigo or with patterns of dots and stripes. Glassware in a variety of blues and greens can also enhance your table.

Surface texture is just as important as pattern. Choose a table runner and napkins made of linen, a popular material right now, to serve as the foundation of your space. Add charm and interest with textured glassware, such as ones with etching, facets or bubbling.

Greater Kalamazoo

Whether dining al fresco or indoors to beat the heat, fresh flowers are a must for the summer season. For a colorful option, set single flowers in a suite of glass bottles – a little goes a long way. Full flowers, like peonies and dahlias, are great for this, or try a variety of white flowers placed in low, white ceramic urns for a monochromatic pairing.

For easy refreshments, use glass beverage servers, since it allows guests to help themselves. Fill one with water and citrus slices, another with lemonade or iced tea, and the last with sangria or punch. Be sure to set out a large bucket of ice and glasses with your beverage servers.

Serve Sensational Sips

If you’re looking for cocktail ideas to kick off summer celebrations, Macy’s Culinary Council Chef Johnny

Iuzzini has tips for easy refreshments that are perfect for summer and sure to satisfy.

To enhance your cocktails, use fresh summer produce – really ripe fruits and vegetables. Buy peaches, strawberries, rhubarb and other fruits to make an amazing punch, which is always a crowd pleaser.

The night before your party, use the largest container you have and fill it with water to make a giant ice cube.

On the day of, make a concoction of herbs, fruits and vegetables with gin, or something light and botanical.

Place the ice cube in a bowl and pour the punch mixture around it. The large ice cube will not melt down and dilute the punch, but will keep it cold and refreshing. It also serves as an eye-catching centerpiece that everyone at the party will talk about.

With leftover fruit, such as peaches or pineapple, throw on the grill for a light summer dessert that is perfect after a heavy meal.

August 2015

5

10 Things to Do in AUGUST

Add “MORES” to your life!

by Peaches McCahill

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2

More humor.

There’s nothing better for the soul than a good laugh.

More strength. Get physically, mentally and emotionally fit.

More time. Wake up a little earlier and stay up a bit later.

“Do one more thing than you think you can.”

More focus.

Make an effort to concentrate on what you are doing.

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5

- Lady Bird Johnson

More kindness.

Perform random acts whenever possible

4 6

More style. Hone your own. Check out the latest trends that might be fit for you.

7

More integrity.

Perform a moral check-up.

9

More angels. Look for them – they are all around you!

6

August 2015

More gratitude.

Show appreciation for all that is good in your life.

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More positive thoughts.

Add a positive thought for every negative one.

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

WomensLifeStyleKazoo.com

Don't Go Stale How to Manage & Supercharge Your Wardrobe

by Kelly Duggan, AICI FLC

O

ur whole life we have been getting dressed every day, and most people take getting dressed for granted. I hope after reading this article that you never will again.

The savvy professional gives attention to her wardrobe, manages and maintains it, and thereby enjoys all the benefits of being prepared to look great and feel appropriately dressed.

and day out? Is quantity and change more important to you than consistency and quality? What are your favorites and why? Lastly, move garments and accessories not worn or no longer meeting your life style needs to the side, inventory the ‘haves’ and ‘don’t have’s’ …and the foundation to supercharging your wardrobe will be in place.

Audit Your Wardrobe Annually

With this fresh and re-newed view you’ll know specifically what you are looking for when shopping, allowing yourself to bypass useless items that sabotage great personal style. Many times as you do this inventory new outfit combinations that you never thought possible emerge, allowing you to shop your closet first.

When stepping out to purchase, consider these tips:

This is the place to begin. Each year you want to retire what is not working and take inventory of where the holes in your wardrobe might be. For example if your favorite dark blazer is starting to look ragged, you had better retire it and that means you need to go shopping for a new one.

Also make sure everything fits – all the buttons are there and firmly attached, and nothing needs repair or cleaning.

There is nothing worse than thinking you have the perfect outfit for an important occasion and finding it is not ready to wear when you pull it out of your closet to get dressed.

The Plan

Set your plan in motion first by defining your specific dress needs – in type of garments and fabrics required by your life style & wardrobe needs and having a confident knowledge of best colors and garment styles that define your Signature Personal Style.

Next, while considering each of the items in your wardrobe, answer the following questions…..honestly. Are you an impulsive shopper? Are there mistakes hanging in your closet? Why are they mistakes? Do you feel guilty spending money on clothes? If so, why? Is your image consistent day in

Filling the Holes

Events Calendar August 2015 125th Anniversary Fact

Sister Mary Raphael O’Brien, MD (Father O’Brien’s sister), was not only one of the attending physicians at Borgess Hospital, but was also placed in charge of the St. Camillus School of Nursing, founded by the Sisters of St. Joseph seven years after Borgess opened.

Borgess Events Newborn Care From Nose To Toes

A complete look at how to care for your little one, including safety issues, that provides you with some hands-on experience.

Borgess at Woodbridge Hills – South Monday, August 3, 6 to 9 p.m. $28/couple. Registration required. Please call (269) 226.8135 or (800) 828.8135 or visit wellness.borgess.com to register.

Bariatric Surgery Seminar

For those considering bariatric surgery.

Borgess Medical Center, Lawrence Education Center Saturday, August 8, 10 a.m. to Noon Wednesday, August 12, 6 to 8 p.m.

Free. Registration required. Call (269) 226.6863 to register or visit bariatrics.borgess.com to watch our online bariatric seminar.

Sports Physicals

Get sports physicals done before the Fall school sports season.

Evening and weekend appointments available by request.

Please call ProMed Pediatrics in Portage (269) 329.0944, Richland (269) 552.2500 or Mattawan (269) 668.4180.

▶ Shop twice a year for ‘core’ garments – suits, pants and skirts

For a complete list and further information about what Borgess has to offer, please visit wellness.borgess.com. Want the latest classes, events and health screenings sent directly to your inbox? You can also sign up for the Borgess Bulletin e-newsletter there as well.

▶ Shop trends and seasonal items at the front end of the season, keeping your wardrobe current

Borgess Health & Fitness Center

▶ Shop discount stores/clearance rackstables for filler pieces to refresh a tired wardrobe or create additional looks from core ensembles

A free cooking class to help bariatric patients make good food choices, and achieve balanced nutrition and a healthy lifestyle.

Borgess Health & Fitness Center, Classroom 4 Tuesday, August 11, 5:15 to 6:30 p.m.

▶ Lastly….when in doubt, don’t!

Free. Registration required. Please call (269) 226.8135 or (800) 828.8135 or visit wellness.borgess.com to register.

Managing your wardrobe will initially take some attention. Apply these ideas to maximize the investment you make in your pieces, insuring that they give all that you need from them. The result will be that you will always have the right outfit ready to go, you will feel confident in your appearance, and that will allow you to get the best possible results on the job.

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

Greater Kalamazoo

Bariatric Cooking Class

Adult & Pediatric CPR and AED

A credentialed AHA Heartsaver course for the general lay responder, this course teaches adult, child and infant CPR, AED, relief of choking and safety. Skills examination given. For ages 12 and older.

Borgess Health & Fitness Center Wednesday, August 12, 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. $45. Registration required. Call (269) 226.8135 or (800) 828.8135 or visit wellness.borgess.com to register.

For a complete list and further information about classes at Borgess Health & Fitness Center, visit fitness.borgess.com.

A member of Ascension Health®

August 2015

7

Artful Expression The Benefits of

by Kerry Hart

T

he limitless ways of artful expression provide ample opportunities for anyone to express their creative side. While most of you can recall the joy felt at the completion of a simple drawing or a play-dough sculpture as a child, expressing yourself through creation as an adult may not be as prominent. Expression is critical to identity, and being in tune with your feelings is essential to reducing stress. Be sure to take time this weekend, or even today, to work on your stress depletion by taking a moment to do something you truly enjoy.

Alleviating stress through art expression works by:

1. Distracting you from your stressor.

Even if it’s for a few minutes, getting your mind off of the topic will release built up tension and may reap a clearer head for better problem solving.

2. Getting into an undisrupted flow.

Allowing yourself to completely engulf in a creation, whether it is the family’s next meal or a paperclip house at your desk, brings you to a near-meditative state, which can reduce blood pressure and deplete excess mind activity.

3. Building confidence in you.

Taking the time to do an activity or hobby that you enjoy is a form of selfcare. It promotes balance, encourages personal endeavors, and builds your individual independence.

Here are a few artful suggestions that may have you on your way to a more balanced (and stress reduced!) lifestyle:

Be a Culinary Queen.

If cooking is your thing, be sure to whip up a favorite dish this weekend, or maybe even try a new recipe from your favorite cookbook. Following set directions can be calming in that it takes the guesswork out. You no longer have to make a decision on what is next, but instead, get to bask in the comfort of following already proven steps to success. Once your creation is completed, you also get the satisfaction of eating it!

Get Visual.

Visual arts have long been applauded for having a hand in reducing anxiety. Be it painting, drawing, or sculpting, you will be able to find your bliss in your creativity. Create a sketch diary, or invest in an easel for your garden. Various brush strokes and colors can assist in getting your emotions out of your head and into a more productive and healthy form of coping.

Instead of repressing emotion that needs to be let out, be sure to express yourself, even if it is not verbally.

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August 2015

Purge your Conscious.

Writing your feelings is perhaps the most understood method of expression. Remember that your writing doesn’t have to rival Maya Angelou’s; simply write your worries or thoughts when you wake up in the morning or scribble a recap of your day before bed.

Putting thoughts on paper is a way to dismiss them from your brain while still allowing you to access those particular feelings whenever you choose to go back and reflect.

Use Your Green Thumb.

Many of your neighbors may be out and about working on their yards and lawns during this warmer season, and I encourage you to join them! Using your hands to accomplish something as small as putting a plant in the ground also provides many therapeutic effects. Then, take a moment and sit in the silence of your accomplishment.

Belt it Out.

Singing has often been more of a go-to in the shower than out in public, but that does not make it a less effective form of stress relief. Using this creative form of stress reduction will help you express yourself without putting a strain on your bank account or your

emotional health. Pick a tune that marks how you are feeling in the moment and belt it out! Who cares if you are off key? In this moment, you are relieving stress and making your world a better place.

Let Your Body Talk.

Perhaps you are not feeling particularly verbal in rough moments. At this point, I encourage you to dance it out. If you are unable to grab some friends and head downtown to your favorite dance spot, turn your living room into your favorite type of club. Turn the music up, close your eyes, and move like no one is watching. Expressing your emotions through physical activity, such as dancing or even exercise, will quickly turn that frown upside down.

These are just a few ideas that will help make your world a little less stressful. Doing what you love can decrease stress, increase energy, and promote positivity in your life. Whether you choose to do these things alone, with a partner or with a group, you will be filtering your emotions in a healthy way. Make your world a better, less stressful place by doing what you love.

WomensLifeStyleKazoo.com

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9

Make a

Colorful Statement M

Change is the only constant in the beauty and fashion world, suggests a recent survey. illennial women, ages 18 to 29, feel empowered to embrace change and showcase a variety of colors when it comes to their appearance.

In a recent survey, conducted by Alcon and Kelton Global, it was discovered that Millennial women are more inclined to pull fresh trends and colors into their beauty and fashion selections. This is a departure from the more simple styles embraced by Generation X. With over half of Millennials describing their style as always changing, this bold new take allows for a great deal of freedom and flexibility in personal expression.

Color is one of the major factors that allows these Millennials to stand out and express themselves. In the survey, 71 percent of women stated that adding color to their look is one of the most effective ways to showcase their personality.

Additionally, more than 60 percent of Millennials believe that using different colors can enhance their natural look and boost their confidence. And empowerment is a major factor in all this change, according to the survey, which revealed young women view enhancements to their appearance as both an empowering and fundamental part of their style.

You can follow the lead of these fearless fashionistas with some simple tips for adding color to your own style.

A fresh approach to your makeup instantly transforms your look. Try changing up the color of your lipstick, eye shadow, nail polish and eye liner for an instant enhancement.

Express yourself in unexpected ways, such as with your eye color. To virtually “try on” beautiful colors that range from subtle to vibrant, visit www.airoptixcolors.com.

Whether it’s a bold red and cobalt blue, or neon and metallic, ditch the monotone look and mix up colors when it comes to your wardrobe.

Millennials in the Alcon survey reported mixing as many as five different colors in a single outfit.

Accessories are the perfect opportunity to add a pop of color to any look. Whether it’s a bold bauble, hot pink stiletto or a bright yellow clutch, colorful accessories can turn the simplest outfit into the most eye-catching.

Enhancing your look is an opportunity to showcase your colorful personality. With these ideas for taking your appearance to the next level, you can forget all of the rules and embrace the trend of simply expressing yourself.

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August 2015

What’s Your Color?

If If If If If If If If If

you are happy, analytical, adventerous you are creative, independent, optimistic you are spontanious, passionate, exciting you are supportive, empathic, imaginative you are sincere, high-intregrity, smart you are deliberate, thoughtful, friendly you are mysterious, fair, reserved you are efficient, powerful, practical you are neat, poised, perfectionistic

Yellow is your color Orange is your color Red is your color Purple is your color Blue is your color Green is your color Grey is your color Black is your color White is your color

WomensLifeStyleKazoo.com

Magazine & Expo

She Means Business!

SHARE YOUR STORY! Reach your target market on a personal level.

Here’s your chance to introduce yourself as well as your company to our readers. Help them understand how you outshine your competition and what makes your services different.

Personalize the profile with information about how you support our community and non-profits. Share your favorite sports and basic family information to humanize your story.

Music Instruction for All Ages & Abilities • Study and learn in a positive and supportive atmosphere with professional, enthusiastic, experienced, university-trained teaching artists including Kalamazoo Symphony Orchestra Artists-in-Residence • Private instruction on strings, woodwinds, brass, piano, guitar, mandolin, percussion, voice, theory and composition • Chamber groups for winds and strings • Crescendo Community Voices for teens and adults with mental and physical challenges • Music Together® classes for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers • Orff Studio classes for students in grades K-5 and adults • Join us for our annual Café and Open House on October 17, 1:00-4:00 Our mission is your musical growth and enjoyment!

Epic Center, Suite 12, 359 S. Kalamazoo Mall information@crescendoacademy.com www.crescendoacademy.com 269/345-6664

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August 2015

11

BEYOND

A Step

Kobi Levi

photos by Shay Ben-Efraim & Ilit Azoulay

H

igh-end designer Kobi Levi takes art and function a step further than anyone else; his designs are detailed and distinctive, and even catch the eye of Lady Gaga (as seen in her Born This Way music video).

Levi’s artistic creations began after graduating from Bezalel Academy of Art and Design in Jerusalem when he worked as a freelance footwear designer, learning the ins and outs of craftsmanship and development. Nine years later in 2010, he revealed his creations to a blog, and the overnight exposure allowed him to open a shop in Tel Aviv, his hometown, where the handmade shoes are created, produced and sold.

Visit www.kobilevidesign.com for more of Levi’s unique art. This season, explore your shoe style and perhaps go out of your comfort zone for the “sole” reason of creativity and expression! - WLM

Chinese 2015

Inspired by Chinese decorations, Levi’s newest shoe is classic red and gold, with dragon scale and red fringe details.

Chewing Gum

An ordinary annoyance in the life of a sneaker becomes a work of art.

Harp Black

The spellbinding instrument of angels conceived as show stopping heel.

12

August 2015

Baseball Cap

The most fashion-forward way to wear a baseball cap.

Banana

Whoppi Goldburg has been spotted wearing these bright slippers. True to the inspiration for the design, the heel is shaped like one of the peels.

WomensLifeStyleKazoo.com

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102.1

Who Made Print and the Web Rivals?

People love Allrecipes.com. The website has a reach of close to 30 million people. Yet at the end of 2013, Allrecipes launched distribution of a printed magazine.

With all of this online success, what’s the point of going into print? What does Allrecipes know?

The company did the research and found readers love both the digital side and printed side of the business. Quite simply, print still holds a profitable opportunity for the business.

Food product advertising is one of the strongest advertising categories in print these days. Despite the shift to online advertising and the attention given to social media, print advertising brings attention to products and services.

Internet and print marketing aren’t rivals. They are opportunities.

Online marketing reaches for people who are already looking for your products and services. Print marketing comes to you.

Allrecipes expanded and grew by going into print. Have you asked lately what print can do to expand your business?

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13

Look Who's Talking

t he Big Play MAKING Women’s teams take on traditionally male sports

by Andrew Domino

W

hen Hannah King, 21, came to Western Michigan University as a freshman, she decided to try something different with her free time. She played soccer in high school, but now that she was in college, she wanted to try something really different. She’s now headed into her senior year, and is co-captain of the school’s women’s rugby team.

“People have a concern about injuries, but we think of them as battle scars,” King said.

Rugby is a combination of soccer and football, where players need to get a ball across the goal line, by kicking it, running with it, or passing it to another player. The opposing team is after the player controlling the ball and can make tackles to knock that player to the ground. The game lasts for about an hour, with a break at half-time. Even though rugby is a team sport, King said she likes the one-on-one aspect of the game, matching skill and strength with her opponents.

“There’s both an individual and team feel,” King said. “It’s you against one other girl. But we have a social aspect afterward — we meet up and talk. There’s no pettiness, no rivalry.”

Rugby is a club sport at WMU, meaning that it’s funded and operated by the players instead of the university, and it’s not monitored by the NCAA, like football and basketball teams often are. The team raises money with dues (the women play to participate), fundraising events and some funding from WMU. They also coordinate with the school’s men’s rugby team, also a club team, to share in fundraising and in games; each year the teams take part in a winter-time rugby match called the “Snowball.” There are about 25 members of the women’s rugby team, mainly WMU students, and they play about 6 to 8 games a year in the fall, with tournaments between several different universities in the spring.

“

Dozens of girls’ and womens’ sports teams play in Kalamazoo, from elementary school-age softball to women’s basketball at WMU and Kalamazoo College. The best-known women’s team in the area is probably the Killamazoo Derby Darlins roller derby team, which has been active since 2006 and is big enough to support three separate teams of skaters. One former Darlin, Dawn Burress, switched sports about a year ago, after 11 years with the roller derby nickname “Dee-Struction.”

Now Burress plays offensive tackle for the West Michigan Mayhem, a member of the Women’s Football Alliance. They play American football, just like the Detroit Lions, though they use a smaller football and the official NCAA (college) rules. There are about 40 members on their roster, and their season, Saturdays in April through June, is nine games.

“We’re not very well known,” said Mayhem co-owner and Coach Lisa Luedtke, 32. “But when people come to see a game, they come back to see more.”

There are nurses, stay-athome moms, researchers . . .

It’s almost like a sisterhood.”

GETTING THE WORD OUT

While the sports may be the same, the audiences at a Mayhem or rugby match are a lot smaller, often just a few family and close friends.

14

August 2015

It’s difficult for the teams to publicize their games and practices, since the athletes have to fit in workouts and game day between jobs and family commitments. Social media helps; both teams have Facebook pages and web sites, though the rugby team shares the spotlight with WMU’s men’s rugby team.

There are no women on the ice for the K-Wings hockey team, but several work in the front office. Director of Sales Toni Daniels said the K-Wings don’t have the same problem as the Mayhem or the rugby team, as some version of the K-Wings has been playing since the 1970s.

“Most people have at least driven by a sign for the team,” Daniels said. “The uphill battle is people saying, ‘We heard the team is closing down or moving.’” Neither is true — the K-Wings, in its current form, has been around since 2000.

Daniels said their marketing focuses and TV advertising, billboards, visits from Slappy, the team’s bird mascot, to local elementary schools, and some “guerilla marketing,” hiring several people to place posters around Kalamazoo promoting upcoming games.

SOCIAL ASPECTS

Women athletes say they enjoy team sports for exercise, and because it’s a chance to spend time with other women like them. Plummer is a FedEx delivery driver, and Burress is a medical assistant at Bronson Hospital.

“There are nurses, stay-at-home moms, researchers,” Luedtke said. “It’s almost like a sisterhood.”

Luedtke played football for 10 years before injuries forced her retirement. She said she wants to stay with the team as long as she can, though, and is regularly recruiting for the Mayhem. The team is part of the Women’s Football Alliance, and is the only team in the area (its conference counterparts are in Detroit, Chicago, Indianapolis and Louisville, Ky.). Players come from as far as Flint and Fort Wayne, Ind., to practice and play.

“I feel most normal when I’m on the field — it fits my intensity, and matches my personality,” said JP Plummer, 40, who is in her 16th year of football. “It’s big hits, relentless pursuit, and good defense.”

Plummer also played for Team USA in the International Federation for American Football’s 2013 world championship, in Vantaa, Finland. She intends to return for the next championship in 2017 in Sweden.

“For me this is year-round,” Plummer said. “I spend all my time in training.”

WomensLifeStyleKazoo.com

PROFILES

LISA LUEDTKE

Co-owner Michigan Mayhem Defensive Coordinator, Defensive Backs Coach

TONI DANIELS

Director of Sales Kalamazoo Wings Hockey Team

Best advice you received?

Pick your battles (from my mom)

Favorite Athlete and why? #45 Jennifer Plummer and #11 Ashley Andrews. They aren’t professional athletes, they are players on the Mayhem defense and they don’t get paid to do this. They go out every game and leave everything on the field. I absolutely love watching those two play football and seeing the plays and the big hits that they make every game. They make coaching defense easier!

What song increases your heart rate?

I always listened to “The Beast” by Tech N9ne before I played a game because it pumped me up. As far as my favorite band/singer I’d have to say both Florida Georgia Line and Taylor Swift. One of those is always playing in my car!

King said joining the rugby team helped her find a community at WMU. “It’s a family away from home,” she said.

“I can go anywhere at Western and talk to somebody, because I know them (from rugby).”

Each new school year brings a new round of recruiting for the rugby team, which often starts with learning how to play the game.

“The first thing you learn is how to fall,” King said. “People come to the team because they want to try something new, or they want to get exercise.”

What's next on your “bucket list”?

Surfing! A lot of the team is taking a trip to L.A. for the championship/All-American weekend in August and I plan on surfing while I’m down there.

Where do you see yourself in five years?

Same place both personally and professionally, with the Kalamazoo Wings franchise both profitable and successful.

Best advice you received?

My parents told me “Just be you”. Don’t worry about what other people think or the norms of society because society won’t be living your life….you need to be happy living your life. If people don’t like you then you don’t need them in your life.

If you want to play a sport that people think “women can’t play” go play it, enjoy it, and prove some people wrong!

What is your dream vacation?

Italy for sure!

Describe the last time you stepped outside of your comfort zone: Just this year in football. I’ve played on the team for 10 years, I was a team captain for 6, and an All-American for 4 but I couldn’t remember the last time I wasn’t playing on the field. This year I transitioned to coaching and I didn’t know how the players (my friends) would react to me being their coach. It ended up working out great and there was mutual respect from both sides.

Daniels said the women in the K-Wings office, and in other teams in their league, the ECHL, aren’t overlooked because they’re women.

“We’re treated with the same respect (as men),” Daniels said. “It’s all about the ticket sales.”

WESITES Kalamazoo Women’s Rugby: www. facebook.com/pages/WMU-Womens-Rugby/99571782700, West Michigan Mayhem: www.wmichiganmayhem.com, K-Wings: kwings.com

While football and rugby may not be just for “tough girls,” as King puts it, that’s not the only challenge that women’s sports teams face when attracting an audience.

“It’s very frustrating to hear, ‘Oh, there’s a women’s team?’” Burress said. “It’s full contact women’s football — women are not weaker.”

Greater Kalamazoo

Andrew Domino wasn't really sure what rugby was before he wrote this article. Now he'll be cheering for the Mayhem, the rugby club and the Derby Darlins. You can read more of his work atwww. dominowriting.com.

Favorite Athlete and why?

Mirinda Carfrae, Female Professional Triathlete who has won 3 Ironman Titles in Kona, Hawaii Who is your favorite singer?

I really enjoy Michael Jackson and Janet Jackson What's next on your “bucket list”?

A trip to Italy next spring

Describe the last time you stepped outside of your comfort zone: I’m doing it right now! I spent 13 years in banking and professional sports were not on my radar. It was important to me to work for a community based organization that lives its core values and hockey is where I landed. I love it!

It’s challenging but fun.

Local PICK of the Month STORE: Olive Cart, South Haven If South Haven is on your summer bucket list, chances are you have plans to satisfy your sweet tooth with the town’s well known treats such as ice cream, blueberries or chocolate but don’t overlook your other taste buds.

Olive Cart located at 424 Phoenix Street is an independently owned business that offers extra virgin olive oils, aged balsamic vinegars and hand crafted creations including tapenades, glazes, barbeque sauces, spice blends and more. Tastings are always available and be sure to ask for suggestions from the knowledgeable and friendly staff. All gourmet items are their recipes using locally-grown Michigan fruits and herbs whenever possible. New this season is Almond Brulee balsamic vinegar. It is sweet and thick – drizzle it on a caprese salad, over grilled pork or even a little on your favorite cream cheese and bagel.

If they are out of their bread, ask for some! As you continue to explore South Haven, a fresh warm loaf will be baked upon request and ready for you in about 45 minutes. It doesn’t get any fresher.

August 2015

15

Finding and Displaying

Original Art

by Amanda Roelofs

A

rt can be intimidating, but utilize these protips to help you find and highlight original and unique works in your own space.

Shop Local

Stay away from chain store art! Do you really want to hang the same picture 5,000 other people have on their wall? It’s tempting when it’s pre-framed, and the colors are nice and you “just need something for that wall,” but resist! Galleries and gift boutiques often have many

Notice the artful arrangement in this student’s bedroom: the frames and gallery design is just as original as the art in the photos.

kids art, book illustrations, vintage cards, calendar pages, pressed flowers, jewelry — anything that you find beautiful or has meaning is a great candidate.

Something original is so much more interesting than a picture that just fills space.

The “Right” Height

“A fresh frame can transform a vintage painting from frumpy to fabulous.”

Online Sources

Shifting Breezes by Kelly Allen

price points available, including lower priced items such as screen prints or letterpressed designs. Also, keep your mind and eyes open at art fairs, flea markets or antique stores for something that truly sparks a bit of joy in you. A fresh frame can transform a vintage painting from frumpy to fabulous. Even better, shop your own attic or collections for something beloved that is not necessarily “art.” Antique textiles or linens,

16

August 2015

pre-determined agenda. Instead of just going with the ever-popular black frame, or matching the wood of the furniture, examine the colors in the piece and be open minded. A frame shop or designer will have great ideas to narrow things down if you need help.

Artfinder.com is a beautiful website that sells 100 percent original art from over 5,000 artists from around the world. It’s super easy to search by type (oil painting, pencil print, photo etc.), subject matter, artist, price range and more. They have great options under $100 if you’re on a budget. Even Etsy is a good source for fine art from professional artists. Be sure to investigate return policies before you buy. There is also a blog called The Jealous Curator for inspiration; it’s not a site to purchase art, but there are daily posts highlighting gorgeous original art and once you have the name of an artist you dig, you can research him or her to find available work.

Getting Frame

For the love of art, do not frame or matte your piece to adhere to some color scheme in the room. Framing is all about drawing the eye into a work and to celebrate the intention of the art itself. Certain color or frame choices can either fight against or enhance a work, so it’s best to really examine the options closely without a

Very often art is hanged too high. A good rule of thumb is to determine the center point of your piece and center that at eye level. You don’t want to have to strain to see your delicate new original watercolor! It’s also good to consider where it is in the house. If it’s a hallway, eye level is a standing height as you pass by.

If the piece will be in a living room where people are mostly seated, you may think of hanging it a tad lower so it can be easily enjoyed from the sofa or chairs.

Artful Arranging

Designers love to inject a room with personality using a gallery wall. This is a creative mix of many different types of work on a single wall including framed and unframed, large and small, important and modest. It can be tricky to find a balance of scale, so it’s a great idea to make craft paper templates and arrange them on the wall with tape until you like what you see. You can then mark the nail hole right on the paper.

Another tip is to orient placement of your art to your furniture rather than the wall. For instance, say you have a chair in a corner with an end table. Hang one or two small frames above the table rather than something large in the center of that wall, creating an interesting and cozy spot. Be open to asymmetrical arrangements like this. The connection of art to the furniture makes a space feel warm and inviting.

Amanda Roelofs is Southwest Michigan based interior designer with her own firm and a former televison art director. Find out more at www. amandaroelofs.com

WomensLifeStyleKazoo.com

Imagine That!

Your the Expert

by Heather Ratliff

F

or the first time in human history, experts not close to us, who don’t particularly care about us, or want to make money off us are the ones we turn to for advice on self-care. This includes WebMD, Wikipedia, health care providers (including nurses like me), government agencies (USDA’s Dietary Guidelines) and companies that sell remedies (supplements, micro-abraders, Thigh Master).

When we only look externally for solutions on how to care for ourselves, we fail to use a resource that matters: Our own experience and knowing.

Take the last time you “went on a diet.” You probably used an experts list of “Do’s” and “Don’ts” as a guide and when the scale failed to show results, you berated yourself as a failure and quit. In this approach, the expert is the authority and YOUR CAPACITY is called into question.

Imagine you heard about the same diet, with the same “Do’s” and “Don’ts” and you applied the same “treatment” to your life, but observed it as an experiment.

When you approach expert advice as an experiment, you can question whether the expert’s advice suits your particular genetic make up, health and lifestyle. In this case, YOU are the expert and you’re questioning the external authority.

To regain your authority in your self-care:

Don’t compare yourself with others Comparison devalues your own experience. We all know someone who seemingly can eat anything they want then never gain a pound, or can get 5 hours of sleep and function beautifully. Your unique combination of genetics, upbringing and life experience influences how your body and brain work today. There isn’t another living soul on Earth who responds the same way you do to the same self-care experiment.

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Apply the experiment at least 90 percent Most self-care measures don’t have much effect when we do them 30, 50 or even 70 percent of the time. Most self-care treatments require an 80 – 95 percent effort to have an effect on how we feel or function. Eating whole foods at dinner, but processed food at breakfast and a junky lunch is not enough whole food to see if it calms your digestive issues or migraine headaches.

Experiment for a month Trying something new for a few days doesn’t provide enough information to judge the effect because it takes our biology time to change. You may be familiar with advice from a doctor telling you to try a new pharmaceutical for two or three weeks before deciding whether it’s working or not. The same is true with many self-care experiments because change inside our brain and body structure takes time. For example, a daily meditation practice or a strict gluten-free both a require weeks for results to “kick in.”

Imagine how empowering it would be to use expert advice as simply a starting point but to trust yourself as the ultimate authority. Commit to a self-care experiment for a month or so and give it a strong, 90% effort. Then you’ll be in a position to use your own experience as a source of clarity, power and motivation.

Heather Ratliff is a Registered Nurse and Health Coach.

She owns The Wellness RN in Kalamazoo, Michigan, a business dedicated to supporting individuals on their wellness journey. You can learn more about her at www.

TheWellnessRN.com.

Greater Kalamazoo

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August 2015

17

CREATIVE PARENTING Rethinking how you discipline

by Kerry Hart

P

arenting can be one of the toughest jobs out there. You give, and you give, day after day, and yet you may still find yourself frustrated with a child who seems to live for making your frustration level rise. Children exhibit bad behaviors that can be easily punished; however, what if there was another way?

Punishing your child will result in frustration on both sides, which can eventually result in conflict with the child, with your partner, and even affect your family’s overall functioning. Before getting to the point where you, as the parent, feel a complete loss of control, there are a few ways to nip bad behaviors in the bud.

Picture this, you spend an obnoxious amount of your take home pay on a family vacation you truly believed your child would enjoy. As you are returning home, your child turns to you and says, well that place was terrible, we did not get to eat pizza the entire time!

Your instinct here might be to yell out in frustration, throw your carry-on bag to the ground and stomp your feet as you see dollar signs crumbling in your mind’s eye. I encourage you to take another route, one that may even break some bad habits for good. One solid method for stopping complaints involves consistency on your part, but I promise it is worth it. When your child complains about something, stop what you are doing completely. Encourage your child to instead state two things they are grateful for. This method will not only remind them that complaining is an undesirable trait, but also make them stop and think for a minute about the positive things you have provided for them over time. Alternatively, they may just become annoyed with having to do this, and therefore stop complaints before they come out of their mouths merely to avoid the extra work. Either way, you will eventually stop hearing complaints, which will result in a happier parent and a better functioning family.

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August 2015

Many parents find themselves arguing with their which is the opposite of what we are going for here. child, which can also be wildly frustrating. Why do Hard as it may be, I encourage you to ignore this you do this? Do you honestly feel your child can go problem behavior. Simply tell your child this behavior tête-à -tête with you when they have yet to reach high is unacceptable and walk away. Obviously, do not school, and you have years of abandon your child in public, When your child is worldly experience under your but walk far enough away that belt? When a child is arguing throwing a tantrum, and your child can realize they are with you, and you know they are on the ground in a department you choose to coddle them store and people are staring. wrong, do not engage. State your or give in to their will, they Your child will eventually pick point once, and let that be that.

If the child tries to continue the learn that this behavior is themselves up and come find argument, address the undesired you. If they continue to cry and acceptable and will behavior. Ask them why they berate you, continue to ignore get them what they want.” the behavior. Your child will are arguing with you and then fall silent. Allow the child to become frustrated and will think about why they are arguing with you. Encourage eventually connect that carrying on in this way will not them to think of their behaviors critically. Depending bring them the results they desire. on their age, they may not openly admit to you that they are wrong, but they will eventually get to that Disciplining your children can be a tricky business, conclusion on their own. By engaging in an argument particularly in this day and age. Children have become with the child, you are encouraging the bad behavior. smarter and more calculating to get what they want.

Stop the argument from getting to a frustrating level Never forget that you are older and have more life by stating your point, and stopping yourself from experience. Do not allow yourself to get dragged interacting on the subject from there. into a frustrating cycle of arguing, yelling, or even negotiating. Instead, I encourage you to outsmart your This brings us to every parent’s favorite problem child, using the tools highlighted in this article. Using behavior: throwing temper tantrums. If your child your head instead of your hands or intense volume believes acting like a fool will get them what they will also set an example for what appropriate behavior want, you may want to ask yourself why that is. Did looks like moving forward. they learn this from an older sibling? Do the other kids talk about this at school? Or, have you been giving in because, frankly, it can be embarrassing when your Kerry Hart, LLMFT is a kid throws themselves on the ground repeatedly in family therapist located within the middle of Meijer? When your child is throwing a Southwest Michigan Natural tantrum, and you choose to coddle them or give in to Health. She specializes in the their will, they learn that this behavior is acceptable treatment of children, teens, and will get them what they want. This will result couples, and families. in a consistent repeating of the problem behavior,

“

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August 2015

19

Bal Arneson

Wants to Spice Up Your Life!

H

ave you heard the saying, “Never trust a skinny chef?” If not, it deserves a giggle of agreement.

If a chef isn’t filling up on their cooking (and showing it), it must not be very good.

Admittedly, that was my logic before I met Bal Arneson, a well-known TV host and culinary personality with a bubbly energy that erupts from a small frame.

“Oh, but I eat all the time,” said Arneson at a cooking demonstration, responding to an audience member’s disbelief that she’s an experienced eater with a slim figure. “But I eat healthy foods.”

She’s not talking about limiting yourself to spinach and water. Arneson is known for her trademark spice-infused cooking and advocating for the plethora of health benefits spices provide. She had her latest demonstration at Holland Home’s Breton Woods Campus as part of her collaboration with Morrison Community Living.

She lit up the room with the story of how she went from a tiny village in Punjab, India that didn’t get electricity, to Canada by an arranged marriage, to cleaning as a job, then cooking for her friends and, eventually, grabbing the attention of TV show producers.

Arneson is the author of best sellers Everyday Indian and Bal’s Quick and Healthy Indian, but she could easily publish a great read about her life. Growing up very poor, she learned to cook at age seven from her elders in a small clay pit.

“I went to bed hungry for the first thirteen years of my life,” she said. For a moment, there was a twinge of sorrow in the crowd, but Arneson immediately assured she “was the fattest poor kid ever!”

Everyone laughed as Arneson shares the story of how she and her friends would walk down the village streets and raid the neighbors’ kitchens under the stealth of having no electricity.

“It was dark, no one could see us,” she laughed. “Fresh churned butter was my favorite. I would put my whole hand in the jar and lick it off my fingers.”

Butter-coated childhood was complemented with many spices, which is traditional in Indian cooking. Most palettes attach “spicy” to the description of Indian food, but when cooked authentically, spices are used to enhance the flavor, not take it over.

by Bri Kilroy • photography by Two Eagles Marcus • recipe by Bal Arneson

20

August 2015

Arneson demonstrated that with a party for the taste buds that included spiced lemonade, hot Chai tea, and

WomensLifeStyleKazoo.com

Bal’s No Butter Chicken Makes 4 servings

lentil cookie refreshments. Arneson, with the help of another chef, took everyone on a stepby-step journey creating No Butter Chicken; a meal she says is perfect for those new to Indian cooking.

Everyone got a taste of the delicious dish and experienced the flavors food can reach with no added salt. Arneson encourages everyone to follow their palate when cooking with spices and to take frequent taste tests during the process.

Availability has made it possible for everyone to cook with even the most exotic spices.

If this article has inspired you to fill your spice starter kit, use cumin and coriander to begin. Cumin possesses an earthy, nutty taste with a hint of spice while coriander is a natural fiber with an earthy taste. The absolute must have in your spice kit is

turmeric, an anti-inflammatory, superhero spice that may fight cancer along with numerous other health benefits.

Retire the salt, butter and sweeteners and sub spices to the playing field. Arneson left you with her recipe for No Butter Chicken (below) so you can start cooking without having to go out and buy her cookbook; although, you will want to after you taste this. You can also marvel at recipes, pictures and more at www.BalArneson.com.

Have a “spice” time.

Bri Kilroy is a Grand Valley and AmeriCorps alumni who learned to type through vigorous Mavis Beacon trainings. She also passes as an artist, illustrator and author of this bio.

2 tablespoons canola oil 1 1/2 cup red onion, chopped

2 tablespoons garlic, minced

1 tablespoon ginger root, minced

2 tablespoons tomato paste

1 teaspoon light brown sugar

1 tablespoon cumin seed

1 tablespoon garam masala

1 teaspoon curry powder 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cubed 1/4 cup plain low-fat yogurt 1/2 cup water Place a skillet over medium-high heat and add the oil. When the oil starts to get hot, add onion, garlic, and ginger and cook for 4 minutes or until the onion is golden. Add tomato paste, brown sugar, cumin seeds, garam masala, curry powder, red chili flakes, and salt and cook for 2 minutes. Add the chicken cubes and stir well to coat. Add the yogurt and water and cook, stirring until the chicken is done, about 8 minutes. Serve with rice and vegetables.

Nutrition per serving (rounded to nearest whole number): 272 calories, 29g protein, 15g carbohydrates, 11g fat, 71mg cholesterol, 444mg sodium, 2g saturated fat, 2g dietary fiber.

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Greater Kalamazoo

August 2015

21

Mexican

Fiesta

by Jen Foley • photography by Two Eagles Marcus

I

t just might be a universal law that if you’re having a difficult day, Mexican food will make it better. Okay, that may be a slight exaggeration, but it certainly sounds true enough. No matter what type of day you’re having, a platter of salsa and guacamole, tortilla chips and a bowl of comforting stew, and a moist tres leches is sure to take it up a notch.

Invite friends, or don’t; leftovers heated up the next day sometimes are tastier the second time around. Margaritas or Mexican beer are optional, but strongly recommended to round out the meal experience.

In a large stockpot, add the pork, chicken, one onion, garlic, and cilantro and enough water to fully submerge items. Bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to simmer, cover, and cook for 2 1/2-3 hours, or until the meat is cooked and tender. Meanwhile, heat a skillet over medium-low heat and toast the pumpkin seeds, stirring often, until golden. Place the tomatillos in a saucepan and cover them with water. Add about a teaspoon of salt. Heat the mixture to a simmer and cook until the tomatillos are tender, but not falling apart (about 10 minutes).

Spiced Tres Leches Cake Makes a 9x13 cake

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking powder 1/2 cup unsalted butter

2 cups granulated sugar, separated 5 eggs

2 teaspoon, plus 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract, separated

2 cups whole milk 14 ounces sweetened condensed milk 12 ounces evaporated milk 1 1/2 cups heavy cream

1 tablespoon cinnamon 1/4 teaspoon ground clove 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg Grease and flour a 9x13-inch baking pan and preheat oven to 350 F. Sift together the flour and baking powder in a separate bowl.

Pork Verde Pozole Makes 8-10 servings

1 pound pork shoulder

1 pound whole chicken pieces

2 white onions, chopped and separated into two portions

3 cloves garlic, peeled and smashed

2 tablespoons fresh cilantro 1/2 cup raw pumpkin seeds 1/2 pound tomatillos

1 jalapeño, chopped

1 16-ounce can hominy Salt to taste

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August 2015

Strain the tomatillos and transfer them to a blender. Add the pumpkin seeds, jalapeño, the rest of the onion and about 1/3 cup of the cooking liquid from the pork and chicken and purée until smooth. Strain the mixture back into the saucepan and allow it to cook until slightly thickened.

Strain the meat from the cooking liquid and allow it to cool. When cool enough to handle, shred the pork and chicken, discarding any bones or skin. Add the meat cooking liquid back to the large pot with the tomatillo mixture and hominy. Simmer for about 1 hour, stirring occasionally, until the mixture has thickened. Add the shredded meat and salt to taste. Serve the pozole with condiments of choice; sour cream, diced onion, cilantro, lime, avocado, pork rinds, etc.

In another bowl, cream the butter and 1 cup sugar together until fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla and beat well to combine. Slowly add the flour mixture and mix until just combined.

Pour the batter into the pan and bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick entered into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely.

Using a toothpick, poke the cake all over several times.

Mix together the whole milk, sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, cinnamon, clove, and nutmeg and pour the mixture over the cake. Whip the whipping cream, remaining sugar, and vanilla together until stiff peaks form and spread it evenly over the Jen Foley is a top of the cake. local foodie, wife Refrigerate and mom who cake for at loves all things least 3 hours Michigan. and enjoy.

WomensLifeStyleKazoo.com

S

ummer is a skin-centric season when shorter pants and sleeves reveal more, so it’s an ideal time to be mindful of the foods that help give you a beauty boost.

Mango is a beauty fruit, containing more than 20 different vitamins and minerals, including several nutrients that stand out when it comes to skin health: vitamin C, vitamin A (or beta carotene) and folate.

•

•

•

The Surprising Beauty Benefits of

Vitamin C supports many different functions in the skin, including collagen formation, regeneration and wound repair.

One cup of mango delivers a whopping 100 percent of the daily requirement for this important antioxidant. Vitamin C intake also has been associated with improved appearance of aging skin.

According to the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, in a study involving 4,025 middle-aged women, researchers found that higher intakes of vitamin C were associated with lower prevalence of wrinkled appearance, dryness associated with aging and skin thinning.

Mangos courtesy of Family Features

Beta carotene is an antioxidant pigment that the body converts to vitamin A. Mangos deliver 35 percent of the daily vitamin A requirement in the form of beta carotene. Research published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition has shown that lower levels of vitamin A in the diet have been associated with a wrinkled appearance. In addition, a number of studies in the same journal have shown that an elevated intake of carotenoids, such as beta carotene, may provide protection from sunlight, lessening sunburn.

Tomato, Chive & Mango Salsa Makes 3 servings

Folate supports many different processes within the body. One cup of mango contains 20 percent of the daily requirements for this B vitamin. A study by researchers from the Department of Cancer Prevention and Control, The University of Arizona Cancer Center and Dermatology Professionals Incorporated, suggests that some of these may have an important impact on the maintenance and function of healthy skin and that exposure to UV radiation can break down folate, resulting in lower levels in the skin.

The distinctive flavor of fresh mangos makes them the perfect ingredient for a summer beauty boost. With a burst of nutrients, vivid color and taste of the tropics, they are ideal for salads, yogurt, grilled meats, side dishes and drinks.

1 1 1/2

2

1 1/2 1/2 1/4 1/8

cup fresh mango, diced cups ripe tomatoes, diced tablespoons fresh chives, minced tablespoon lemon juice teaspoon lemon zest teaspoon fresh oregano leaves, minced teaspoon sea salt teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Combine all ingredients in a large bowl and stir. Serve or cover and refrigerate until needed. For more delicious mango recipes visit www. mango.org.

The Redox Revolution

21% decrease in eye wrinkles 23% improvement in overall wrinkles 22% improvement in facial skin texture 23% improvement in smoothness 20% increase in elasticity 11% increase in skin moisture

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August 2015

23

Your Go-To Dance Move

The Cupid Shuffle

by Bri Kilroy

I

f you’re like everyone at the last wedding I was at, you fear the dance floor like it is a pedestal of embarrassment.

Maybe you get out there during dance songs like The Cha Cha Slide and Macarena because those moves have been engraved in your memory since the roller rink. Otherwise, you spend the rest of the tunes at the sidelines or the bar line.

It’s time to add a new dance for all those jams that aren’t “YMCA.” The Cupid Shuffle spawned from the 2007 song by hip-hop artist, Cupid is till going strong. It is a popular, easy-to-learn, line dance that can groove to any song with slight modifications in speed and number of counts based on the beat.

By the time you’re done reading the following steps, you’ll be the fearless one on the dance floor moving everybody to join.

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August 2015

Step 1: Step to the Right

Standing straight, step sideways to your right, bringing your feet together with each step, for eight counts (four steps). Tap the floor with the ball of your left foot on the final count.

Step 2: Step to the Left

Step 4: Walk it by Yourself

Take eight counts to turn a quarter way to your left.

This is the part of the song Cupid sings “Walk it by yourself” Add a personal sway or shake and have fun with your movement as you turn. Stop at eight counts. Facing a new direction, start the dance again.

Repeat, stepping to the left this time. You’ll end up back where you started. Tap the floor with the ball of your right foot on the final count.

The great thing about the Cupid Shuffle is the variety of genres it can pair with and the freedom your body has to move with the steps, giving it a different feel every time.

Step 3: Heel Switch

Whether the DJ spins rock, country, rap, R&B, blues or folk, you’ll have this go-to-dance move in your pocket as you leave your fear on the chair and step up to the dance floor.

Standing in place, shift your right foot in front of you, tapping your heel on the floor. That’s one count. Repeat on the left foot.

Switch heels, alternating tapping between left and right for eight counts (four counts per foot).

Find examples on YouTube by simply typing in the search box: “The Cupid Shuffle”

Bri Kilroy is a Grand Valley and AmeriCorps alumni who learned to type through vigorous Mavis Beacon trainings. She also passes as an artist, illustrator and author of this bio.

WomensLifeStyleKazoo.com

Greater Kalamazoo

August 2015

25

Courtesy of Metro Creative

LEARN

Poetry Basics

“How do I love thee? Let me count the ways.”

O

- Elizabeth Barrett Browning

n special occasions, you may feel compelled to spout words of love.

However, it may have been some time since you engaged in a little creative writing. The option to take the easy route and send an eCard instead can be very tempting.

Poetry has long been the means to deliver words of affection. Throughout history poets have professed desire and love through the stanzas of their poems.

From Emily Dickinson to W.H. Auden to Lord Byron to The Bard himself, William Shakespeare, many writers can base a portion of their fame on memorable love poems.

Let’s Explore

Here are some types of poetry and their rudimentary components to get you started. Explore the different styles and find one that fits for you.

Acrostic: This type of poem is one in which the

first letter of each line of poetry spells out its own word. These types of poems are often written based on a person’s name or a sentiment, such as love.

Ballad: A short narrative poem that features stanzas of two or four lines with a refrain. The last words of the second and fourth lines often rhyme.

Epic: This type of poem is a long narrative usually

celebrating the adventures and achievements of a hero.

Epigram: If your loved one has a sense of humor,

try an epigram. This poem is short and satirical, ending with a humorous statement or a sarcastic punchline.

Etheree: This poem is 10 lines, where each line has a certain number of syllables, from 1 in the first line to 10 in the last.

Free Verse: This type of poem does not have

any specific rules, leaving the flow of words and line breaks entirely to the poet.

Haiku: This poetry is formed of unrhymed verses that follow the 5-7-5 pattern of syllables.

Limerick: Having originated in Limerick, Ireland, this is a rhymed humorous or nonsense poem of five lines.

Quatrain: A poem consisting of four lines of verse with a specific rhyming scheme.

Sonnet: This type of poetry features 14 lines in

iambic pentameter with a particular rhyming scheme.

Spoken Word: Performance based poetry

infused with word play, rhythm, rhyme and gestures.

Let’s Give It A Try

There are many different types of poems, but it doesn’t take a lot of knowledge to try your hand at creative writing. After you write your poem, recite it out loud to determine if it sounds good. Continue to edit your work until you are satisfied with it.

Go ahead and write down the first thing that comes to mind Keep it up. The words might start to flow naturally after a while. Gather your thoughts to apply them to whatever style of poetry that works for you.

Read poetry and be inspired by other poets: Maya Angelou Emily Dickinson Delmire Agustini Emily Bronte Kim Addonizio Nikki Giovanni Sara Teasdale Sandra Cisneros Gwendolyn Brooks Gertrude Stein Alice Walker Grace Cavalieri

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August 2015

WomensLifeStyleKazoo.com

Haven’t “Botany” Plants in a while?

by Rick Vuyst

T

he heat and humidity of summer tend to whither the enthusiasm for yard improvements. Haven’t “botany” plants in while? August is a great month for deals on plant material and opportunity for a colorful pick-me-up plant purchase to replace others that have wilted in the heat. August is also the threshold to one of the best gardening times of the year—the fall season. It’s a great month for enjoying buddleias, altheas and panicle hydrangeas in bloom.

Ornamental grasses show off in August by dancing in the summer breezes.

Mums and asters start becoming available for some instant color opportunities.

Sedums and other succulents laugh at the heat or drought and perform beautifully in the garden or container. Herbs love the heat and continue to reward with the delightful aroma of basil, oregano and sage. One of my favorite August bloomers is a perennial called agastache, or hyssop. This plant entertains bees, butterflies, hummingbirds and the occasion sphinx moth. They will ignore you as they are intoxicated by the color and aroma of the plant, even as you approach to snap off a piece of foliage to enjoy its licorice scent.

If you are irrigating your landscape and lawn, I recommend watering in the morning. Mid-day watering is usually not efficient with the wind and sun evaporating some of the water. However, some days it may be necessary to water both in the morning and later in the afternoon. Stay away from “sunset watering” to avoid disease with wet foliage in the overnight hours.

August is also a great month to think about lawn rejuvenation. Tired of your lawn or is your lawn just plain tired? “Turf’s up dude” in August, as the lawn can be prepared for either total renovation or just overseeding and improvement. In my opinion, because the soil is warm and fall affords perfect weather for turf establishment, the period of August 15 to October 1 is the perfect time of the year to repair or establish a lawn. Mark the period on your calendar and pro-“seed” with some rejuvenation before your opportunity is “lawn” gone.

Rick Vuyst is CEO of Flowerland, host of the Flowerland Show on NewsRadio WOOD 1300 and 106.9 FM as well as Mr. Green Thumb on WZZM TV 13.

Remember, after August there is “mower” to come in the gardening season. After the heat your “grow”tivation will return. In the mean time, stop to smell the roses; August is a great month to love your garden.

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August 2015

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CALENDAR

of Events

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

Please type Calendar in the subject line.

July 26 – August 1 Kalamazoo Restaurant Week Downtown Kalamazoo. The week allows many of the restaurants in Downtown to highlight what makes them truly special with a price fix menu at either $10 or $25. 269-9782167. www.kalamazoorestaurantweek.com

August 1 Brewery Walking Tour Tibbs Brewing Co. 12 – 4:30 pm. West Michigan Beer Tours is proud to be partnering with Discover Kalamazoo and the rest of our sponsors on the 2015 Kalamazoo Craft Beer Walking Tour Series. $19. 269-3504598. john@westmibeertours.com

August 1 Iris Sale Bargains!

Bank Street Farmer's Market 1204 Bank St. 7 am – noon. The Kalamazoo Southwest Michigan Iris Society is selling Iris rhizomes at bargain prices. This sale includes named Tall Bearded, Border, Dwarf, Intermediate, Siberian, Japanese, Louisiana and Water Iris. 269-624-1968.

August 1 – 9 West Michigan Area Show Kalamazoo Institute of Arts. Tues – Sat 10 am – 5 pm, Sun 12 – 5 pm. Artists in all mediums from 14 counties in Southwest Michigan exhibit in this annual juried KIA show. $5. 269-585-9297. www.kiarts.org

August 1 Salsa Cook-Off Various locations throughout downtown Kalamazoo. 11 am – 2 pm. Like its winter counterpart, the Chili Cook-Off, the Salsa Cook-Off will highlight the many creative varieties of salsa and attendees can visit all the participating locations to try samples of salsa. Free. 269-978-2167.

August 1 – 29 Willow Lake Gallery Willow Lake Club, Parkview Hills, 3707 Greenleaf Circle, Kalamazoo. 9 am – 9 pm.

Art Minders presents Paintings by Luciana Costea. Reception August 6, 6 - 8pm. Free.

269-372-4444 August 1 – 30 TINKERTOY Build Your Imagination Kalamazoo Valley Museum. Hours vary.

Giant replicas of the classic TINKERTOY

Help us

finish the fight

against breast cancer.

Making Strides Against Breast Cancer of Kalamazoo

Kickoff Celebration Wednesday, August 12 7:30 a.m. Registration | 8-9 a.m. Program Kalamazoo Country Club 1609 Whites Rd., Kalamazoo Must RSVP to attend. Request your invitation today!

269.349.8710, ext. 6121 kalamazoomistrides@cancer.org makingstrideswalk.org/kalamazoomi ©2015 American Cancer Society, Inc.

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August 2015

construction set provide the framework for fun and educational activities. Free.

269-373-7990.

August 1 – 30 Wine Tasting Henderson Castle. 11:30 am – 6 pm. Come visit us in Michigan’s only underground wine cave! Taste our 6 private label Henderson Castle wines. $9. 269-344-1827. www.hednersoncastleinn.com August 2 Concert in the Park Bronson Park, rain site First Methodist Church. 4 pm. Yolanda Lavender who also serves as executive director of the Black Arts & Cultural Center in Kalamazoo. Free.

269-342-5059. www.kalamazooarts.org August 6 – 8 Ribfest Kalamazoo Arcadia Creek Festival Place. 11 am – 12:30 pm. The event will also bring in national rock and country musical artists, local bands, plenty of fun activities including children’s crafts/games, People’s Choice Rib Competition, and the exciting contest for Best Ribs in Kalamazoo. $10 - $40. 269978-2167. kalamazooribfest.com August 6 - 9 52nd Annual National Blueberry Festival Downtown South Haven. This four day festival will be held in various locations in and out of doors in the Lake Michigan Beachtown community of South Haven.

Many events take place overlooking South Haven's picturesque harbor, our Lighthouse and Lake Michigan. 269-637-5252.

August 7 Art Hop Various Locations throughout Downtown Kalamazoo. 5 – 9 pm. Art Hop is a free event that features new art exhibits in a fun, casual atmosphere. Numerous galleries and businesses in the downtown area host a variety of artwork. Free. 269-342-5059. www.kalamazooarts.com August 7 Art Hop “Ice Cream Social” West Michigan Glass Art Center. 5 – 9 pm.

"Ice Cream Social!" Cool off with a scoop of ice cream in a glass bowl created by youth in our 2015 Summer Glass Camp. Enjoy glassblowing demonstrations and the exhibit in our Reflection Gallery. Free. 269-5529802. www.wmglass.org August 8 – 15 Kalamazoo County Fair Kalamazoo County Expo Center. 9 am – 9 pm. For the Kid in All of Us! Free grandstand entertainment each night, Experience local farms, Kids Zone, Carnival rides, Games & Food. Daily. Adults $6, Kids 6-12 $2, Kids 5 and under are free. 269-3735181. www.kalamazoocountyfair.com August 11, 25 Free Vein Screenings Premier Vein Center, treating the entire spectrum of vein disorders through minimally invasive techniques, offers FREE screenings for non-Medicare patients. 269585-8346. www.premierveincenter.com/ vein-screening August 13 American Business Women's Association Oshtemo Township Park @ 5:30. Annual picnic for Scholarship Awards & Membership Event. For more info call 269-903-2989 or email joannhaverkamp@yahoo.com

August 14 Friday Teen Night Kalamazoo Institute of Arts. 6 pm. Check out current exhibitions, make some art, share pizza and pop with friends. $2.

269-349-7775. www.kiarts.org August 15th Oshtemo Fun Day Flesher Park, 9th St just South of Stadium.

8 am – 4 pm. Fun for the entire family!

Come join us for food, rides, games, exhibits, music and entertainment. Free parking and admission. www.oshtemorotary.org August 15 LOL Community 5K Texas Drive Park at 9 am. This 5K will have you entertained and smiling, if not laughing while you take in the beautiful sights and energetic entertainment that will line the course.

Walk, run, skip, scoot, jump, jog or "wog"-this race is for you! Lol5krace@gmail.com August 15 Downtown Kalamazoo Brewery Walking Tour Central City Tap House. 12 – 4:30 pm.

Learn about the craft beer in Kalamazoo, enjoy sampling some of the best beers in the world, and find out about the fascinating history of Kalamazoo. Registration will be held at noon with departure at 1 pm. $19.

269-350-4598.

August 16 Fit For Amara Kalamazoo County Expo Center, Room A. 2 – 5 pm. Charitable event to celebrate the life of Amara James who passed away from complications of cerebral palsy. $15 donations accepted. 269-341-0775. cmj_mp20@ yahoo.com August 19 Tax Sale Auction Kalamazoo County Expo Center, Main Expo.

11:30 am. Tax Sale auction of public land.

Registration begins at 11:30am. Auction begin at 12:00pm. The catalog listing of properties will be available at www.tax-sale. info/kalamazoo-county. 269-384-8124 August 20 Tour de Zoo Binder Park Zoo. 5 – 9 pm. Join us for music and merriment in the Zoo picnic area, after your bike ride, where you will enjoy a variety of New Belgium Brewing Company beers, live music, games, giveaways, and feast on tasty post-ride treats $25. 269-9791351. www.binderparkzoo.org/tourdezoo August 20 Teen Etiquette Course Manners Matter – Essential Manners and professional-social soft skills for job seeking/college bound late teens (16+). 11 am – 2:30 pm, Consumers Credit Union - Kalamazoo Mall. Includes: seminar, workbook, 3 course lunch and certificate. $65.

Pre-registration required. For more information and registration call 269-873-1598. kd@ kellyduggan.com August 21 Murder Mystery Dinner Henderson Castle. 6 – 9 pm. During the dinner, you get to know everyone, share what you know and find out what you can... you will need this to establish a motive... for murder....Who knows, you may be the murderer and not know it! $87. 269-344-1827. www.hendersoncastleinn.com

WomensLifeStyleKazoo.com

August 22 Downtown Kalamazoo Brewery Walking Tour Alamo Drafthouse Cinema. 12 – 4:30 pm.

Learn about the craft beer in Kalamazoo, enjoy sampling some of the best beers in the world, and find out about the fascinating history of Kalamazoo. Registration will be held at noon with departure at 1 pm. $19.

269-350-4598.

August 23 Concerts in the Park Bronson Park. 4 pm. U.S. Navy Band Cruiser: The U.S. Navy's premier popular music group features eight dynamic Navy performers genres of music ranging from jazz and standards, rhythm and blues, classic rock, adult contemporary and pop as well as original material. Free. 269-3425059. www.kalamazooarts.org August 28 Dinner & Moonlit Walk W.K. Kellogg Manor House. 6:30 – 9 pm.

Enjoy dinner at the historic W.K. Kellogg Manor House followed by a guided moonlit walk. A three course dinner will be served. $45. 269-671-2015. communityrelations@ kbs.msu.edu August 29 Style Show Fundraiser Portage District Library, lower level. 10 am. A style show featuring the latest fall

fashions from Chico’s. Proceeds from this fundraiser will benefit local non-profits. Door prize drawings throughout the show. $8.

269-998-8107.

August 30 Downtown Kalamazoo Brewery Walking Tour Old Burdick’s Bar & Grill. 12 – 4:30 pm.

Learn about the craft beer in Kalamazoo, enjoy sampling some of the best beers in the world, and find out about the fascinating history of Kalamazoo. Registration will be held at noon with departure at 1 pm. $19.

269-350-4598.

September 4 Click Downtown Throughout Central City (downtown). 9:30 am – 12 pm. Take a picture – it’ll last longer! As a creative way of introducing new Western Michigan University students to downtown Kalamazoo, 1,700 students will head to Central City for an urban photo scavenger hunt. Free. 269-388-3083. deb@ eventkalamazoo.com September 4 Art Hop Various Locations throughout Downtown Kalamazoo. 5 – 9 pm. Art Hop is a free event that features new art exhibits in a fun, casual atmosphere. Numerous galleries and businesses in the downtown area host a variety of artwork. Free. 269-342-5059. www.kalamazooarts.com

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Greater Kalamazoo

August 2015

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Reader’s

Lounge

is forever changed. As time goes on, some of them make it big; others give up dreams of stardom for more practical and steady employment. In this characterdriven novel, the author explores how time, distance, fame and success can complicate and alter friendships.

by Meredith Schickel

A

s summer wanes, we are thinking ahead to a new season of creativity. Read on to find inspiration for celebrating the arts.

Astonish Me

by Maggie Shipstead

Joan’s dreams of becoming a world-famous ballet dancer are shattered when she becomes pregnant.

Instead, Joan moves from New York City to the suburbs in California, and teaches ballet to kids at a local dance studio. As her son Harry grows, his dance talent becomes apparent. While Harry becomes famous himself, secrets from Joan’s past come to light. Through the stories of Joan and Harry, we get a glimpse of the cutthroat world of ballet. This beautifully written novel is sure to leave you with a great appreciation for the determination and skills required of professional ballet dancers.

Vienna Nocturne

by Vivien Shotwell

In her debut novel, opera singer Vivien Shotwell offers a fictionalized account of the life of British opera singer Anna Storace. As a young singing prodigy, Anna’s parents move her from England to Italy to Austria to advance her opera career. She becomes a favorite singer of Joseph Haydn, Emperor Joseph II, and Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. She later meets Mozart and becomes his muse. She inspires some of Mozart’s most famous pieces. In turn, he helps her cope with great personal crises. Shotwell imagines that Storace and Mozart’s professional relationship develops into a great love affair, although they are married to others at the time. In this historical novel, Shotwell demonstrates her love of music and shows the reader how opera was evolving at the height of its popularity.

LOCAL AUTHOR

As You Wish: Inconceivable Tales from the Making of The Princess Bride

Laughing for a Living

by Sue Merrell

by Cary Elwes

In essence, this memoir is a love letter to one of my very favorite films, The Princess Bride. Cary Elwes, who plays Westley (the lead character) in the movie, tells delightful anecdotes about the making of the film. From casting and the fans to the 25th anniversary screening at Fenway Park, As You Wish captures all the magic of the film. The memoir provides additional anecdotes from others involved in the movie creation including Billy Crystal, Rob Reiner and even Princess Buttercup herself, Robin Wright. Through it all, the actors were always able to “Have fun storming the castle.”

30

August 2015

The Interestings

by Meg Wolitzer

Do you ever wonder how it feels to be a critic?

Sue Merrell, a former writer and editor for The Grand Rapids Press, recounts her experiences as a theater reviewer. She met, interviewed or reviewed the performances of many prestigious stars. She recounts times when Tony Curtis flattered her, Cary Grant hung up on her, and Patty Duke was her alterego. Through it all, we see that while a reviewer may be knowledgeable and make valid comments, the audience may feel different, and that could be what really matters.

In 1974, six artistic teenagers meet at a New England summer camp for the arts. A few years later, after events at a holiday party turn violent, several characters react against one another. Their friendship

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live. work. play.

BUSINESS SERVICES

Y’OPA Frozen Yogurt Portage Center Plaza-165 W. Centre

www.A1PrintingCopyCenter.com (269) 381-0093

MEDIA, MARKETING & TECHNOLOGY

Bee Clean Building Services (269) 381-3745 ForensicFluids.com (269) 492-7700

Chocola-Tea.com 7642 S. Westnedge, Portage

HEALTH, BEAUTY & WELLNESS

Sawall Health Foods sawallhf.com

www.WMUK.org 102.1 FM

NaturalHealthFoodCenter.com (269) 342-9459

Kalamazoo Nature Center naturecenter.org

HOME SERVICES

Jaqua Realtors – Audrey DeVault (269) 207-3411

RETAIL

GordonWater.com (269) 382-0068

fb.com/DiscoveryShopKalamazoo 269-345-0661 www.douglasandson.com (269) 344-2860

Loedeman's Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning

loedeman.com

Kazoo Books kazoobooks.com

MigalaCarpetOne.com INSPIRATION TO INSTALLATION HOSPITALITY/ RESTAURANTS

WomensLifeStyleKazoo.com (269) 569-1647 RECREATION

Westside Medical Pharmacy (269) 375-1700

gordonwater.com (269) 382-0068

www.GreatDealsMagazine.com (269) 321-0612 Solutions NOW Kazoopons.com

www.advantageprivatenursing.com (269) 324-1180 NaturalHealthFoodCenter.com (269) 342-9459

Ad Shop, Etc. (269) 207-0103

Comensolies.com (269) 345-6755

theAmplePantry.com (269) 375-8300

www.leesadventuresports.com 311 W. Kilgore, Kalamazoo Neighborhood Cleaners Kalamazoo – Portage – Mattawan RomenceGardensonline.com 9660 Shaver Rd. Por tage

www.Chocola-Tea.com 7642 S. Westnedge Prtg.

vashoesfit.com

V & A Bootery vabootery.com

Comensolis.com (269) 345-6755

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

The Right Place for Hosting Your Event FetzerCenter.com

Vandenberg Furniture 12000 N US 131 Hwy, Schoolcraft

HendersonCastle.com (269) 344-1827

VanderSalm’s Flower Shop & Garden (269) 342-0123

LawtonRidgeWinery.com (269) 372-9463

Wenke Greenhouses Corner of Sprinkle & Market - Comstock

MacKenzies’ Café & Bakery Kalamazoo (2 Locations) & Portage

Greater Kalamazoo

www.WMUK.org 102.1 FM

Wyndy Pynes Alpaca Farm 269-668-8149

August 2015

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