She Means Business - September 2018

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Essential • Entertaining • Enlightening | WomensLifeStyleKazoo.com

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Considering Surgery?

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Front row: Joseph Riethman, MD, FACOG Patti Zull, CNM, FNP-BC Back row: Lori Kellogg, CNM Brittany Post, WHNP-BC Carter Lomax, MD, FACOG Carly Davis, MD, FACOG Marcia Johnson, MD, FACOG Wendy Bauer, MD, FACOG

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September 2018 LIFE

Editor: Erica Shier eshier@wlskazoo.com

Sales Manager: Suzannah Zerbe szerbe@wlskazoo.com

STYLE

Layout & Design: Alicia Carlston acarlston@wlskazoo.com

8 Fantastic Fall Fashion 10 Showcase Your Style in Your Office

Event Coordinator: Heather Dombos hdombos@wlskazoo.com

FOOD & DRINK

14 Tastes from the Kitchen: The Garden Griddle 33 Comfort Foods For Autumn - Creamy Shrimp Chowder - Dutch-Oven Crusty Bread - Classic Chocolate Meringue Pie

Photography: K. Redmond Photography fb/kredmondphotography

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

Administrative: Patty Clifford pclifford@wlskazoo.com Contact Us: 269-350-5227 Sales Info: 269-365-8254

LOOK WHO’S TALKING 37 Debi Howe 37 Loretta Cipkus Dubray

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Publisher: Darlene Mohr dcmohr@wlskazoo.com

Contributing Writers: Kelly Duggan Heidi McCrary Erica Shier Ashley Carter Youngblood

12 Local Shopping: Kazoo Books 29 Here’s a Thought: Embrace your Inner Weird 31 Excuse the Messy Hair: A Reflection on Living without Apology

SHE MEANS BUSINESS

The People Who Make It Happen...

LEARN & DO

7 How to Freelance like a Boss 16 Five Tips to Recruit and Retain Millennials 30 Shop IT Until You Drop IT 32 Is Your Spouse/Partner in Your Financial Loop?

36 Explore Alternative Financing for Your Small Business 39 Three Tips to Boost Your Career in Five Minutes 42 Reader’s Lounge

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: WomensLifeStyleKazoo.com WomensLifeStyleKazooExpo.com

WLSK Proudly Supports

COMMUNITY NEWS & HAPPENINGS 6 MASTERMIND 34 What’s a Girl to Do? 38 Restaurant Reviews 40 Calendar

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September 2018

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S:9.125”

Connected care is better care.

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You’re able to reach out to your care team, too. With Bronson MyChart, you can get test results, refill prescriptions and request appointments online whenever it’s convenient for you.

To experience connected care, choose a Bronson doctor at bronsonhealth.com.

Or visit bronsonpositivity.com.

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3/16/18 1:43 PM

FROMTHEPUBLISHER

W

elcome to our 11th SMB edition. Each September we are proud to present you with profiles of some of the outstanding women in our great community. The women featured here serve as proof that success is different for every woman and inspire us to chase our own dreams.

There’s just something about fall and returning back to our “scheduled lives” (and maybe squeezing in one last swim in Lake Michigan) that makes me reflective.

For me, it always feels like a good time to do a yearly review.

This year, I’ve been blessed to travel a lot, which is my favorite way of learning. As I travel I love to learn about the culture and the special characteristics of local living. As part of this learning process, I love to observe the local women as they pursue their busy lives. One thing is for sure: Women all over the globe are busy, productive and fiercely protective of their family and friends! I couldn’t be happier to see it.

This year I’ve lost two amazing women who helped shape the woman I am. I lost my own mother at the tender age of 11,so when I married many years ago, I was blessed to gain a mother. While she was technically my “Mother-In-Law” (a phrase that automatically carries a negative connotation), she was so much more to me. She taught me so many things (cooking and canning and so much more) and always made time to listen to my younger self. She was an amazing

Grandma to my two kids and made her whole family feel loved. I also lost a Best Friend. Sallie and I meet at work years ago and maintained the type of friendship where you don’t see each other for months and then pick right up where you left off. We shared a special bond. I miss them both more than I can say and want to encourage you to celebrate the STRONG women in your lives, for whatever time you’re granted with them.

Next, I reflect on all the amazing women I am privileged to work with every day.

Given my career path, I meet so many local women who impact our community in powerful, wonderful ways. It is our honor at WLSK to print their stories on our pages every month and to introduce them to our readers. Thank you for your dedication, your spirit, your sense of adventure and your commitment to living life to the fullest. It is true: YOU ROCK! Looking forward to another beautiful fall in Michigan, I wish you an autumn filled with wonderful colors and tantalizing foods.

Until October, stay safe!

Darlene

“All great changes are preceded by chaos.”

Deepak Chopra

“You have to have confidence in your ability, and then be tough enough to follow thorough.”

Rosalynn Carter “Insanity: Doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results.”

Albert Einstein “The only way to have a life is to commit to it like crazy!”

Angelina Jolie “You don’t drown by falling in the water. You drown by staying there.”

Unknown “She took the leap and built her wings on the way down.”

Unknown

KALAMAZOO HAPPENINGS A WOMEN’S GROUP DESIGNED FOR WOMEN IN GREATER KALAMAZOO The August MASTERMIND Social was a wonderful evening of fun, food, and friendship.

The members and guests enjoyed a delicious appetizer buffet, cocktails, and some very entertaining games. A big “Thank You” to our August Sponsor: The Fetzer Center. A wonderful time was had by all.

Here are some interesting facts that we learned about some of those attending!

“I have over 350 different Pez dispensers that I have collected since I was 15” – Jaime F. “I am a hobby bee keeper” – Katie R. “I am the youngest of 13 kids” – Mary Beth L.

“I have a nine week old baby” – Emily B. “I have a green card”.

– Macal D. “I have been a registered nurse for 33 years” – Polly K.

“I put my name on a concrete slab that went to the top of the CN Tower in Toronto” – Sandy D. “I speak 3 languages, have three nationalities, and I was raised in the tropics” – Brigitte R.

NEXT MEETING: WHERE: Fetzer Center – WMU DATE: Tues, Sept 11 TIME: 11:30p – 1:00p Lunch will be served at 12:00p COST: $20.00 RSVP by 9/5/18 at 8pm at tinyurl.com/ya24ytxt

How to Freelance

like a Boss

COURTESY OF BPT

F

reelancing means the freedom to set your own hours, work closely with clients, be your own boss and have greater control over your career.

According to Forbes, there are 53 million freelancers in America today, and by 2020, it’s estimated that half of the workforce will be doing freelance work, whether full time, as a part-time gig or as their side hustle.

Freelancing requires a few essential tricks and tools to succeed. Whether you’re looking to start out or refresh your personal brand, home-working experts cite five important tips to help you succeed at the freelance game.

Manage Your Time

One of the best parts and most challenging parts of freelancing is that you get to make your own schedule.

Many people find that they need structure in their day, and for this reason, it’s important to have the right time management software like Harvest, Time Doctor or Sighted. These will notify you of calls, deadlines, track how long you work on a project and more. Sign up for free trials to find the one that works best for your work style.

Get the Right Laptop

A laptop is your office, your meeting room, your library, your entertainment source and so much more, making it the most essential of freelancing tools. It’s

Greater Kalamazoo MAGAZINE | EXPO

the lifeline between your business and your clients, so it’s critical to be sure you have the right one—one with long-lasting battery life, that is light yet durable with an operating system that can smoothly run all of the software you need to perform at your best. Popular options among freelancers are the LG gram, MacBook Pro and Lenovo.

Get Professional on Social Media

For all work-related correspondence and interactions, be sure to use a dedicated email account. This will make you appear more professional to prospective clients. You should also set up work-related social media accounts where you can post examples of work, share professional insights and network.

Keep Track of Finances

For a lot of freelancers who work in creative industries, keeping track of finances can be a real challenge. Not only do you have to manage invoices, expenses and make sure you’re getting paid, you also have to keep taxes in mind. That can be a lot of numbers to juggle.

The right accounting software like QuickBooks Self Employed, FreshBooks or Wave simplifies this process and saves you frequent headaches.

Find Your Space

manage your business, you still need to find the right place to work. Spend a month trying out a number of workspaces for a week at a time—a coffee shop, home office, co-working space or library. Wherever it is that suits your work style, you will definitely need strong Wi-Fi and access to outlets.

By 2020, it’s estimated that half of the workforce will be doing freelance work.

While freelancing is largely a digital game and requires the right laptop loaded with the tools you need to

September 2018

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Fantastic Fall Fashion E

ach year The Pantone Color Institute creates the Pantone Fashion Color Trend Report, which highlights the top color trends for fashion for every season. This fall, experiment with Pantone’s top color trends to add rich tones to your autumn style.

RED PEAR

Red Pear has luscious depth. It entices. This deliciously deep red is a warm and classic fall color. This versatile tone can makes a great addition to your work wardrobe and can also be used to add drama at night. Pair it with dark denim, another big trend for the fall.

MARTINI OLIVE

RUSSET ORANGE

Russet Orange is a great way to add to a brighter shade to your fall color palette. This forest-floor orange is radiant and energetic. Wear this color to create vibrant, yet warm looks. Be sure to also look for knit tops with unique patterns for an extra pop!

Martini Olive is all about sophistication. This urbane green is very smooth and makes a great staple for fall. It mixes and matches well with other autumnal colors. Build your t-shirt collection with different fall shades. Basic t-shirts can be dressed up or down and can provide you many more outfit options while staying on a budget.

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September 2018

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

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

CEYLON YELLOW

Ceylon Yellow expresses an exotic, savory touch.

Add this spicy color to your wardrobe to add a bit of boldness to your looks. Dresses don’t have to be left behind for the summer: Get a dress with thicker fabric for fall and pair it with tights!

Chunky heels are also a huge trend for the fall.

Comfortable and stylish, they complete this look.

ALMOND BUFF

Almond Buff is great neutral color that can be paired with anything in your wardrobe. Knit sweaters in this hue will keep you warm on cooler fall days while knit scarves in neutral tones add the perfect touch to fall jackets as the season cools down.

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September 2018

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Showcase Your Style in Your Office

BY KELSEY MCCRACKIN

W

hether you have a corner office or work from home, personalizing your workspace is not only fun, but essential; studies reflect that decorated offices give people a sense of comfort, ownership and privacy, which reduces emotional exhaustion at work and increases productivity.

Start by deciding what you want your office to say about you. Are you a world traveler, bubbly and colorful, calm and serene, a vintage collector, or something else? Once you have nailed down what aspect of yourself you want your workspace to reflect, start gathering the items you’d like to display.

Bookshelves

Bookshelves have a high impact because the bulk of the display is at eye level and invites your guests to stop and look. Avoid lining the shelves with knickknacks; instead, mix different types and sizes, and include things such as collected pieces, books, pottery, and greenery. Adding eye-popping wallpaper or paint to the back panels also adds personality and interest.

This can become a great backdrop to whatever style you’re aiming for.

Artwork

Make a statement by showcasing one large piece or a collage of multiple smaller pieces. The artwork should not exceed the size of the piece it’s hung above. For example, if you have a large-scale artwork over your desk, leave 6-inches or so of empty space on either side so it doesn’t overpower the wall.

Once you have nailed down what aspect of yourself you want your workspace to reflect, start gathering the items you’d like to display.

With a collage wall, you’ll want to have close to the same amount of space between each frame, but vary the sizes of frames. This will make sure admirers see every unique piece!

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September 2018

Accents

These are the finishing touches and not the statement pieces; let these assist in the design, but not overtake it. If you have a simple arrangement throughout the workspace and want to add a bit of excitement, do it with your rug. Rugs can add subtle, calming softness or a splash color or texture as a grounding piece.

Throw pillows are similar in that they are easy to interchange; they add the perfect amount of color and texture your office chair and decorative bench.

If trendy pieces speak to you, by all means, add them in! Making your office exude your personality is the end game, so anything that means something to you should be included in your space. Following some of these simple rules can ensure the design is done in a clear, thoughtful way that makes your personality shine through.

Kelsey has a passion for historical home preservation and mixing multiple colors and textures in the spaces she designs for her clients.

WomensLifeStyleKazoo.com

Fall is Coming Are You Ready?

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

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Move more. Be well.

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September 22, 2018 Spring Valley Park Free to walk and celebrate!

Donations appreciated.

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©2018 MWA American Heart Association. Also known as the Heart Fund.

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September 2018

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LOCAL SHOPPING

2413 Parkview Ave. | www.kazoobooks.com | (269) 553-6506 | HOURS: M-F 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM | Sat 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM | Closed Sun

T

his September Kazoo Books is celebrating 30 YEARS of serving Kalamazoo as one of its premier independent booksellers. Clocking in at 4,000 square feet, the store is larger than it appears from the street and has 5 stories of books for ardent readers to explore. Kazoo Books is a blended-concept store, with brand-new selections sharing shelf space with pre-owned books in great condition. Don’t see what you’re looking for? Just say the word and the staff will find and order the book you desire…and have it in-store for you in record time.

Gatherings Welcome

Book clubs and other gatherings are welcome at Kazoo Books. Whether you’re with a small group of girlfriends, are part of a book club or are hosting a shower, the store offers a number of areas in which you can make yourself comfortable as discussion flows. Kazoo Books can accommodate groups up to 45 people and provides access to a full kitchen for food and beverage preparation.

Sci-Fi, Fantasy, Mystery and Thrillers

Kazoo Books prides itself on its massive selection of science fiction, fantasy, mystery and thriller reads.

Whether you’re in search of the latest installment of your current favorite series or are interested in finding a vintage selection in your favorite genre, you’re likely to find it here. Pull up a comfortable chair in front of the electric fireplace & enjoy a trip to another world.

Local Authors

Kazoo Books is a passionate supporter of local authors, making sure to keep the shelves stocked with reads written by the Michigan authors you love. Pictured are: The Recipe Box by Viola Shipman, The Amber Beads by Judith Rypma, Once upon a River by Bonnie Jo Campbell and Art Speaks: Paintings and Poetry by Mary Hatch and Elizabeth Kerlikowske.

Keeping up with the Times

Even with the emergence of e-readers and digital platforms, Gloria remains committed to the idea that people really do prefer the experience of paper books and brick and mortar stores. Kazoo Books works very hard to keep track of trends and preferences and adjusts accordingly to meet its customers’ needs. Gloria is not afraid to innovate and has developed an online business. She’s also involved in distribution and is antiquarian trained. Author and photographer Bill Kline advertises and distributes his series of four picture books through Kazoo Books. Pick up one of his beautiful books (or the whole set) for someone you love…or yourself!

Community Minded

The Great American Read

Sponsored by PBS and continuing through October 18, The Great American Read encourages people to vote online and on social media for their favorite from a list of 100 books (classics and best-sellers alike). America’s favorite read will be announced on PBS in October.

Inspired by the list? Kazoo Books is the perfect place to pick up a copy of one you haven’t read yet…or maybe an old favorite you’d like to revisit.

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Gloria and her team are deeply committed to the Greater Kalamazoo area and invest in it in myriad ways. Gloria supports local schools by helping with book selections and arranging author signings when possible. She also employs two High School students as paid interns, training them in all aspects of the business. Her goal is that, when they leave, they have comprehensive knowledge about what goes into running a successful retail business, from customer service and setting up attractive displays to how to effectively use the computer.

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

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September 2018

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TASTES FROM THE KITCHEN

BY ERICA SHIER

(269) 415-0036 • 217 E. Michigan Ave., Paw Paw, MI 49079 • www.thegardengriddle.com HOURS: Monday-Friday: 7:00 AM-3:00 PM | Saturday: 8:00 AM-2:00 PM | Closed Sunday

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he Garden Griddle is a family restaurant, in every sense of the word. Not only is it family-owned and operated, it’s designed to be the kind of place you can take your family for a comforting, fresh meal that will satisfy any palate…young or old. More than that, the staff treats each customer like they’re family…a fact that means you’re sure to find “regulars” scattered throughout the restaurant, no matter when you choose to visit.

Because Sarah Cox and her family used to own the Mattawan Market, they have nurtured longlasting relationships with local farmers. This means that they have access year-round to fresh ingredients and the menu is full of dishes that feature local produce. They focus on preserving what they can so that, during long winter months, diners can continue to enjoy Michigan’s abundance. The Garden Griddle offers the kind of from-scratch, comforting and fresh food that reminds you of days gone by.

Create Your Own Cookie

2 C. of your favorite The b 2 ½ C. flour e add-in combination par st 1 t baking soda t! ½ t salt SUGGESTIONS INCLUDE: 1 C. butter · Andes mint pieces + ¾ C. sugar chocolate chips ¾ C. brown sugar · M&Ms + chocolate chips 2 eggs · Bacon pieces + chocolate chips 1 t vanilla (more if you like) · Caramel chips + pretzel pieces

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Cream together the butter and sugars until one texture and color. Add eggs and vanilla and mix again till same texture and color.

Then flour, baking soda, salt and preferred add-ins (your imagination is your only limitation!) and mix until combined. Use an ice cream scoop to portion onto baking sheets, then bake for 12-14 minutes.

The Garden Griddle just relocated from its previous location in Mattawan to its new home in Paw Paw, where seating has more than doubled. The increased square footage allows the restaurant to accommodate events in the evening.

The Garden Griddle is also home to a full service catering company, Creative Catering Services, which makes it the perfect place for a rehearsal dinner or baby shower.

Many items on the menu are made-to-order, allowing customers to design a dish that is perfect for them. This means that vegetarians and meat-lovers as well as those with food allergies or sensitivities can find something they’ll love.

The Garden Griddle serves breakfast and lunch every day but Sunday, with old favorite like Eggs Benedict, omelets and Reuben sandwiches and unique creations like the Good Morning Quesadilla, the French Toast Sandwich and best burger winner The Devil Dog Burger. WWMT recently recognized The Garden Griddle as one of the top three breakfast places in West Michigan.

The Garden Griddle is famous for ending each meal with a sweet treat. If customers don’t choose a delicious dessert from the menu, they at least leave with a homemade muffin or cookie. The staff bakes hundreds of cookies each week and they are constantly looking for new flavor pairings to delight their guests’ taste buds. Sarah has generously offered to share their recipe for our guests to experiment with and find their own favorite combinations.

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

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September 2018

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September 2018

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5 A

Important Tips to Recruit and Retain Millennials

s millennials continue to expand their share of the workforce, they’re using their influence to change the workplace to their advantage.

The generation of workers ages 22 to 37 is an important segment for employers as baby boomers retire in huge numbers to create what’s slated to become a 15-year labor shortage. To stay competitive, employers are increasingly stepping up to appeal to young, tech-savvy workers by digitizing their most important employee communications and interactions — including their benefits administration.

If you’re an employer wishing to recruit and retain younger workers, consider integrating the following tactics into your workplace structure.

Teleworking Opportunities

As employers and employees increasingly recognize the advantages of at-home work, about half of all U.S. workers now hold jobs that offer at least part-time telework. Proponents say such opportunities decrease employee stress levels while boosting productivity and reducing employer overhead.

Integrate Digital Benefits

A recent study by Guardian Life Insurance Company of America found Millennials prefer a more intuitive, personalized and engaging benefits experience

COURTESY OF BPT

from their companies. The study finds employers are beginning to improve the end-to-end user experience, with 75 percent now focused on improving effectiveness of self-service platforms compared to 61 percent in 2014. Eighty-one percent of employers surveyed are satisfied with the highly digital benefits administration platforms they’ve used; 67 percent say such platforms work well for enrolling workers and 58 percent particularly praise their record-keeping ability.

Millennials place great importance on being given opportunities to learn and grow on the job.

Social Media for Recruiting and Screening

If you’re not using tools such as Facebook and Twitter as supplementary tools for finding and vetting candidates, you’re missing out on the ability to spread and/or gather information that transcends the limitations of resumes and cover letters. Ninety percent of Americans 19 to 30 are now on social media, and many expect their employers to be equally on board.

Professional Development

Millennials place great importance on being given opportunities to learn and grow on the job, and employers can make that happen through companyfunded webinars, podcasts, online college classes and other curricula. Many such courses are tax-deductible, and such investments also pay off for employers as their workers gain news skills and abilities.

Multiple Communication and Storage Tools

Savvy employers set up their communications systems to allow for interactions and collaboration anywhere, any time via a choice of channels. That kind of flexibility often calls for cloud-based storage platforms and content management systems.

re-elect

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vote nov. 6 16

September 2018

www.juliemrogers.com Paid for by Committee to Elect Julie Rogers, 3428 Marlane Avenue, Kalamazoo, MI 49006

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SHE

means

BUSINESS

Welcome to the 2018 SHE MEANS BUSINESS section. The following profiles of local women and their businesses give a glimpse of the dynamic & profound impact they have on the Kalamazoo area. Feel free to contact any one of these women or businesses. For those who participate, we hold a networking event every year. If you are interested in being one of our profiles the 2019 edition, our contact info is below.

269.350.5227 | WomensLifeStyleKazoo.com | info@wlskazoo.com

Heather Dombos

Event Coordinator

Heather Dombos is the newest addition to the Women’s LifeStyle team. As the event coordinator and account representative, she brings a little southern charm & sass to everything she does. Heather loves being a part of an organization that brings knowledge, entertainment, and empowerment to women while highlighting our amazing Kalamazoo community.

Heather was born and raised in Okeechobee, Florida and earned her BA from Florida Atlantic University in 1999. She met her husband, a Kalamazoo native, at a Florida baseball clinic & moved to Michigan after their wedding in 2000.

Heather is mom to two yellow Labrador retrievers & the proud aunt of two wonderful nieces. In her spare time, Heather enjoys spending time on the water, hiking, & cooking.

WOMEN’S LIFESTYLE OF GREATER KALAMAZOO | hdombos@wlskazoo.com

You could say that collision repair is in Julie Jackson Chenery ‘s blood. Her father, Craig Jackson, started the business in 1978 with the first shop on Stadium Drive.

The business grew alongside Julie and her brother, Rob, and there are now eight locations in Southwest Michigan. When Craig decided it was time to retire, Julie, Rob and Pete Springett bought the business from him. Julie’s nephew Chris and niece Caylea are also part of the team, making Autobody USA a true family business.

Julie Jackson Chenery Co-Owner

(269)375-9050 jchenery@autobodyusa.biz autobodyusa.biz

Julie has a deep respect for the talent required to provide an invisible fix to a damaged vehicle and being able to help people in a moment of need. A Mattawan native, Julie now lives in Vicksburg with her husband Mark and their dachshund Missy. She’s a big supporter of the SPCA of Southwest Michigan and The Community Healing Center of Kalamazoo.

She also enjoys investing in real estate and tries to get away with girlfriends whenever she can.

Greater Kalamazoo MAGAZINE | EXPO

Tina Ritchie

Empathic Reiki Master Practitioner

Tina Ritchie is a trained Reiki Master practitioner, offering in-person service and classes in the Southwest MI area. Reiki is a Japanese relaxation technique that is a gentle form of energy bodywork conducted via light touch. Empathic Reiki can be deeply relaxing as well as helpful in releasing trapped emotions within the body which, over time, can build and contribute towards physical aches and restrictions. Reiki is used to assist with a variety of concerns including stress, anxiety, headaches, vertigo, neuropathy, autoimmune disorders, and much more. This type of energy work treats the whole person… body, mind, spirit and emotion.

Tina is a deeply spiritual person and finds Reiki the perfect way to use her empathy to help others. She loves to spend time with her family and dogs, enjoys yoga and connecting with nature.

SACRED HEART SERENITY | 269-779-4808 | sacredheartserenity@gmail.com

Julia struggled to find the balance between work and life. She lacked community and friendship with other women. Her search for connection brought her to the niche community of pole and aerial fitness. Classes were fun and challenging. Over time, Julia became a certified instructor and set out to foster fun, support and empowerment through her own studio.

Julia Petaway Owner

FLY FIT POLE AND AERIAL FITNESS STUDIO 5015 E. Michigan Ave., Kalamazoo, MI 49048 269-240-9977

Fly Fit Pole and Aerial Fitness Studio is a community for women to cheer each other on through life’s challenges and joys, in both fitness and life. Julia’s motto, “Your vibe attracts your tribe” makes her unique studio a place for women to connect and celebrate.

The success and support has been so strong; the Fly Fit Aerial Annex addition opens later this year with more aerial class options and exiting ways to challenge your workout.

Whether you are an experienced athlete or a beginner, visit the studio and FLY your way into fitness and fun.

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Elizabeth Forest

Licensed Massage Therapist (LMT)

ELIZABETH FOREST WELLNESS | Conveniently located in Parkview Hills 269.615.0860 | 3503 Greenleaf Blvd, Kalamazoo | ElizabethForestMassage.com

Kimberly Earnshaw

Director of SWMI American Heart Association

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Elizabeth Forest is a LMT trained at the National Holistic Institute in California. Elizabeth, practicing massage therapy for over 20 years, believes that massage should be a part of everyone’s integrative wellness plan to address the health issues created by stress, lack of exercise, & poor diet. Skilled in techniques from deep relaxation massage to deep tissue massage, she customizes her massages to each client’s needs. With clients ranging in age from 10-93 years old, Elizabeth’s office is peaceful and barrier free. She is a member of the American Massage Therapists Association & the Society for Oncology Massage.

Kimberly works tirelessly to help create a culture of health through successful activities like Go Red For Women, Kalamazoo Heart Walk and the new Go Red Goes STEM event. Her goal is to be a relentless force, along with the AHA and its volunteers, for a world of longer, healthier lives. Her overarching focus is around Healthy For Good -- a movement to inspire you to create lasting change in your health and your life, one small step at a time. The approach is simple: Eat smart. Add color. Move more. Be well. Learn how you can be involved with a healthier SW Michigan by connecting with Kimberly.

AMERICAN HEART ASSOCIATION | 269-808-2783 Kimberly.Earnshaw@heart.org

Mary Beth Lyons

Owner

A Single Ray of Hope, LLC is a trusted and professional Personal Assistant & Concierge service located in Portage, Michigan. Life is hectic! We try to fit about 36 hours of work into a 24 hour day. It’s like being on a merry-go-round that you can’t stop. It’s stressful! It’s perfectly okay to ask for help.

Mary Beth’s business serves busy individuals, families and businesses by handling their TO DO list tasks such as errands, shopping, house & pet sitting, wait service, organizing/downsizing, move assistance and more! Mary Beth loves making a positive difference for clients. She is a veteran, the youngest of 13 kids and being a Nana is her all-time favorite gift.

A SINGLE RAY OF HOPE | (269)720-7605 | MaryBeth@ASingleRayOfHope.com

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Susan M. Dennis D.D.S.

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

Dr. Dennis has made several television appearances on The Lori Moore Show and WWMT. She is a regular contributor to the online site, The Practice Solution, and has been published in the Kalamazoo Gazette and several articles in The Heart of Texas Corners, Gull Lake Living and Women’s Lifestyle Magazine of Greater Kalamazoo. Dr. Dennis is the originator of “The Dental Prescription”, the specific, detailed analysis and prescription for each patient’s needs and wants. She and her team sponsor at least one charitable event every quarter which include; “The $10,000 Smile Makeover Contest”, Dentistry From the Heart®, Halloween Candy Buyback for Operation Gratitude, American Heart Association, Kalamazoo Humane Society Dog Walk and is a major contributor to their new Veterinary Clinic to open in the Fall of 2019.

Dr. Dennis is happily married to Jim Murray and together they have three wonderful sons & daughters-in-law & six adorable grandchildren. They chose to live in southwest Michigan many years ago when they fell in love with this family-oriented community.

269.216.7106 8150 Moorsbridge Rd, Ste A Portage, MI 49024 MyDrDennis.com info@mydrdennis.com WomensLifeStyleKazoo.com

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Megan McLain

Customer Development Manager

ABRAXAS WORLDWIDE

701 East Milham Avenue Portage, MI 49002 (866)535-0016 solutions@abraxasworldwide.com

Megan McLain began her career with Abraxas in 2010 as a document indexer, knowing very little about the industry. Over the next few years, she grew passionate about information governance, moving her way up in the company while gaining experience.

Megan enjoys her current role as Customer Development Manager because it allows her to help her clients find unique solutions to meet their biggest challenges while building invaluable partnerships and helping drive Abraxas’ growth. Abraxas is a full-service Records and Information Management provider that supports highly regulated industries on a global scale. Their partnership approach, commitment to quality and compliance, and superior customer service set them apart from competitors. Abraxas offers each client tailored solutions to meet their unique needs, which allows them to quickly and confidently respond to legal, tax, regulatory and business obligations.

Megan currently resides in Three Rivers with her spouse Derek. She spends her (269)657-5646 ext.practicing 23 free time gardening, running, kerry@looksharponline.com yoga, and supporting the community 37174 Red Arrow through volunteer work.Hwy.| Paw Paw, MI

Polly Kragt Owner

When Polly Kragt decided to retire from her career as a Registered Nurse after 31 years, she decided to go into business for herself. She combined her passion for the “art of the cup” and her love of quality chocolate and opened ChocolaTea in 2008. ChocolaTea is a loose leaf tea and gourmet chocolate store that is also a small service café with specialty drinks and a small sandwich menu. The shop’s signature beverage is the delicious tea lattes made from their loose leaf tea. The store also offers a large retail section, featuring teathemed gifts and accessories.

Polly’s Italian heritage and love for quality foods and oil led her to open a second retail stores a few doors down from ChocolaTea in 2015. The Pantry on Tap sells gourmet, high-quality oils and vinegars in a variety of unique flavors.

CHOCOLATEA & THE PANTRY ON TAP 7642 S. Westnedge Ave. Portage, MI 49002 (269) 903-2447

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When Polly’s not on site in one of the stores, chatting with customers and giving them the one-on-one service they deserve, she can be found with her family, doting on her grandchildren.

Amelia Lietzau

Commercial Real Estate & Construction Consultant

Amelia Lietzau had just graduated from Kalamazoo College with a degree in Biology when her step-dad, Gary Barton, suggested she take a real-estate licensing class for general business knowledge. Before she knew it, she had joined Gary in the commercial construction and real estate business and they were setting up shop together.

Specializing in buyer and tenant representation, The Barton Group is committed to the success of the businesses with which they partner by offering experienced, heartfelt service to meet specific property needs.

Amelia and her husband, Derek, live in Decatur with their two dogs and two cats, with plans to start a human family in the near future. She loves coaching softball as well as growing and cooking food on her family farm.

THE BARTON GROUP | ABK@thebartongroupofmich.com 269-823-3572 | www.bartongroupllc.com | 8750 Portage Industrial Dr

Brink, Key & Chludzinski, P.C.

Proudly celebrating 26 years, Brink, Key & Chludzinski, P.C., continues to serve Southwest Michigan with a full range of accounting, tax and advisory services. We have a tremendous group of women who we are honored to have on our team who not only work in the firm, but are students, mothers, volunteers and board members throughout West Michigan.

Thank you, ladies, for your dedication to our firm and community.

269-321-9200 | www.bkccpa.com 1300 West Centre Ave, Ste 200 | Portage, MI

Julie Powell

Skin Care Specialist

Julie Powell is a licensed Cosmetologist, Certified Medical Skin Care Specialist and Certified Laser Technician in practice for 29 yrs.

She creates personally designed treatments aimed at providing healthy, aesthetically pleasing solutions for her patients. Developing an on-going relationship with each patient is important to Julie. Through that relationship, she is able to understand and address her patient’s needs and concerns.

Working under the supervision of Dr. Steven Nitsch, a board certified Plastic Surgeon, Julie is able to offer advanced skin care techniques, including Coolsculpting, an innovative, non-invasive way to contour your body by freezing unwanted fat away. Julie also provides the following services: Fraxel Restore, Thermage, Micro-Needling, Intense Pulse Light, Chemical Peels and Speciality Skin Care treatments.

PARKWAY PLASTIC SURGERY | 269.343.5750 www.parkwayps.com | 575 W Crosstown Parkway, Kalamazoo

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Brittney Bundles

Owner

Brittney Bundles has always had a heart for helping people to meet their highest potential while looking their very best. She determined early on that BadChickHair would offer more than services like braiding, twisting, sew-ins and dreading of natural hair. Not only is BCH a premium virgin hair vendor & braiding salon, they are also hair business consultants. Empowering women through entrepreneurship is the team’s motto and driving force.

Jacque Jennings-Carter Anti-Aging Specialist & International Business Developer

A Kalamazoo native, Brittney and her two brothers were raised from the start to follow their dreams and push past all obstacles. When she’s not bringing beauty and mentorship to the women of Kalamazoo, she loves spending time with her three incredible sons and her wonderful fiancée.

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BADCHICKHAIR | (269)888-6600 | sales@badchickhair.com

Every day for Jacque is another opportunity for her to fulfill her passion, which consists of educating others about Redox Technology and its importance to our overall health and wellness. Whether we are healthy or have a life-threatening condition, making the decision to make our personal health one of our top priorities is important for every aspect of our life.

Jacque tells us that if someone is not healthy, especially if it is something even remotely serious, it has a ripple effect. It may mean they can no longer be there for their family physically or financially or even that they may become a “burden” to them. “I never want that to happen anyone,” Jacque says, “and I can help people be proactive about that.”

Jacque believes that the cost associated with being proactive about health is an investment, not an expense. “The reality is that being healthy does cost money,” she says “and the older we get, the more it typically costs to be, and stay, healthy. But being sick costs exponentially more and it affects everyone, not just the family member who is sick.” She recommends that family budgets have a line item for overall wellness and proactive choices such as massage, nutrition, acupuncture and exercise to contribute to optimal health. “One of the most important items to include in any wellness plan is Redox Technology,” she continues, “and I love educating others about why that is true.”

She notes that being healthy is no accident; those who are healthy intentionally focus on their health. She loves helping others discover their optimal health through Redox Technology.

Jacque is a passionate volunteer, donor and sponsor with a lengthy list of community accomplishments and awards. In August, she received the Distinguished Service Award from the USTA Nationals Boys 18s & 16s Tennis Championships for her years of service. Jacque also works tirelessly on behalf of children, animals, victims of any kind of abuse, those with mental illness and the elderly. She is most proud of her daughter Ashley, son-in-law Jake, and their two dogs, Max and Sunny.

ASEA - Jacque Jennings-Carter 269.779.2900 Jacque@AdvancingLives.biz AdvancingLives.TeamASEA.com

Greater Kalamazoo MAGAZINE | EXPO

Vandenberg Furniture features everything from dining sets, bedroom suits, accent tables, lamps and mattresses to sofas and recliners available in custom fabrics and leather. “The furniture here is designed to fit our customers’ needs,” adds Lynette Baber, who carries an art background that lends to her design expertise.

Barb Germain & Lynette Baber Design Consultants

Name brands that people know and trust, like Flexsteel, Ashley, Best, Vaughan Bassett, Restonic and the finest quality Amish furniture. And introducing DecoRest Furniture—built to last, economical, and customized by you.

Beautiful furniture that fits your life.

Vandenberg Furniture – serving the area since 1937.

12000 N US Hwy 131, Schoolcraft | 269.679.4055 vandenbergfurniture.com | facebook.com/VandenbergFurniture

Heidi McCrary Writer

Whether she’s polishing the script for a client’s TV commercial, providing provocative commentary in her column with Women’s LifeStyle, or diving into her second career as a future novelist, Heidi continuously flexes her writing talents.

Advertising Goddess and Writing Extraordinaire…

“Words can make all the difference between an ad that gets lost in the clutter, and one that attracts the eye and generates action. I enjoy shifting from creating effective advertising for our clients at Ad Shop, etc. and exploring the art of telling a story that invokes emotion and conversation—all with the written word.”

AD SHOP, ETC. | 2408 Tamrack, Suite 1 | Kalamazoo 269.207.0103 | heidi@adshopetc.com | fb: adshopetc

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“People are often surprised at the beautiful selection of furniture we have here,” says Barb Germain who has been with Vandenberg Furniture for over twenty years. “And our great prices keep people coming back.”

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The Ladies of DeNooyer Chevrolet’s Business Development Center Tori Jones, Sales Account Manager; Katie Rall, Service Account Manager; Allysa Dowden, Business Development Manager; Charlotte Schroeder, Sales Account Manager; Cheryl Smith, Service Account Manager; Tomi Rodriguez, Sales Account Manager

The Ladies of DeNooyer Chevrolet’s Service and Warranty Administration Brianna Mull, Service Technician; Lauren Armbruster, Quick Lane Service Advisor; Ursula Schafer, Service Advisor; Kelsey LeRoy, Service Advisor (Diesel and Hybrid Specialist); Kelly Savage, Customer Experience Manager

Miles Ahead... in delivering peace of mind for all your Automotive needs!

Let our team of highly trained women in the field of vehicle maintenance and service put your repair service fears at ease. Our Service Advisors are well-versed in the latest vehicle technology and can answer any questions you may have. Integrity and quality customer service are just a couple of the many talents these ladies display on a daily basis.

The DeNooyer Sales Account Managers schedule all sales appointments for the Sales Consultants. They reach out to returning lease customers to discuss their end of term options and determine how they would like to proceed.

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DeNooyer Chevrolet has a dedicated department to make sure your call is answered promptly, by a real person.

Our team of Service Account Managers schedule all service appointments with the Service Advisors. They also keep our customers informed of any safety recalls that may affect their vehicles.

(269) 220-3343 | www.Denooyer.com 5800 Stadium Drive, Kalamazoo, MI 49009

Kelly’s strong passion & belief in what she does allowed her to grow her hobby into a full time business & bring what was an exclusively metropolitan service to our community.

Kelly Duggan Founder & President

KELLY DUGGAN Image Consulting, LLC offers a total image service, including professional presence development and personal brand strategy, through coaching, speaking & consulting. Additional services include appearance & wardrobe development & organization, personal shopping, & eyewear selection services for men & women. Kelly is an award-winning image coach, speaker, and consultant.

She enjoys helping her clients improve their personal and executive presence, communication skills, & etiquette. “To better serve our clients KDIC offers J. Hilburn Menswear services.” J. Hilburn offers great fit and styling, through a convenient onsite consultation for ready wear to custom garments and accessories.

Kelly spends her personal time at her lake home with her husband of 29 years and their three Bassett Hounds Maggie, Daisy Lu and Dempsey.

KELLY DUGGAN IMAGE CONSULTING | 269.873.1598 kd@kellyduggan.com | kellyduggan.jhilburn.com | www.kellyduggan.com

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Amy Heyduck

Amy Heyduck has always been passionate about health and finds incredible satisfaction in helping others meet their fitness goals, which made her decision to open Title Boxing Club in Portage a natural choice. The club features highintensity boxing-style workouts that are class based and suitable for people of all ages and fitness levels. Because workouts can get boring, causing people to become discouraged, the variety in the boxing classes and the enthusiasm of the instructors keeps members motivated and focused on their goals. The workouts are a fun way to relieve stress and offer the opportunity to build community.

661 Romence Rd. Portage, MI 49024 (269) 271-8057 Amy.heyduck@titleboxingclub.com

Amy is thrilled to put her education in Sports Management and her fitness certifications (ACE, AFAA and NASM) to work helping to make the Kalamazoo area a healthier place to live. When she’s not at the club, she loves to spend time with her husband Steve, a sergeant (269)657-5646 ext. 23 with kerry@looksharponline.com the Kalamazoo Department of Public 37174 Hwy.|twin Pawboys.

Paw, MI Safety, andRed theirArrow 5 year-old

Owner

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Janis Clark

Community Connector

Janis Clark is a goal oriented, positive person who loves helping people work individually or in tandem towards beneficial outcomes and objectives. Through workshops, team or individual coaching you will find yourself connecting to your customers, clients, staff and community on a higher level to optimize outreach, sales and event goals. Individualized strategies shall help your team succeed. Available for corporate or nonprofit consulting. Through humor and sincerity, she will share a lifetime of experiences.

Old National Bank

Connecting you to your clients, customers and community.

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JANIS CLARK - COMMUNITY CONNECTOR | 269-217-0569 janisclark.esq@gmail.com | www.linkedin.com/in/janis-clark-4649843

Katie Redmond Owner

From left to right: Johanna Nabozny - Commercial Relationship Manager; Jaime Flees – Wealth Management Client Advisor; Sandy Derby – Certified Financial Planner®; Diana Brown - Commercial Relationship Manager

With products ranging from personal and business banking to investments and wealth management, Old National Bank is Your Bank. For Life.

Please visit any of our Southwest Michigan locations including our new Regional Headquarters at the Corner@Drake.

313.318.4274 | SERVING SOUTHERN MICHIGAN www.KRedmondPhotography.com | Katie@KRedmondPhotography.com

Gloria Tiller

Owner, Kazoo Books

Gloria Tiller opened Kazoo books in 1988, believing that a brick and mortar store would allow her the flexibility to grow over the years. The store, which is bigger on the inside than it looks, is celebrating 30 years of business this September. Gloria sells new & used titles in the store & online. Customers love the coziness of the store & the staff’s commitment to finding titles they want in record time.

In addition to being a business owner and bibliophile, Gloria loves cars & is the proud owner of a 1999 Corvette.

When she’s not looking for ways to customize her business and meet customers’ changing needs, she loves to travel.

KALAMAZOO

PORTAGE BATTLE CREEK

5003 Century Ave | 459-0440 3201 Portage St | 552-6130 5810 Gull Rd | 552-6700 4431 W Centre Ave | 323-7448 140 Columbia Ave W | 969-5626

KAZOO BOOKS | 2413 Parkview Ave. Kalamazoo, MI 49008

Greater Kalamazoo MAGAZINE | EXPO

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Katie is a portrait photographer serving Southwest Michigan.

She offers a couture style experience, creating custom sessions and original artwork as a way to share your unique story. Sessions are meant to be fun, relaxed, and a little luxurious! Katie loves spending time with her family, reading, and relaxing in nature.

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Jessica R. Silber

Kerry Tapper Look Sharp Marketing Look Sharp Marketing is an experienced, quality-producing ONE STOP SHOP for all its customers’ imprint and image needs. They offer screen printing, embroidery, signs of all kinds, professional logo development and over 500,000 promotional products. Kerry is proud to contribute 28 years of experience in the imprint/image industry to this 32 yearold woman-owned and operated business.

She has three goals at the heart of her business: superior customer service, quality merchandise and satisfied customers.

Kerry and the LSM Team specialize in offering the latest styles and hard-to-find garments for women & men as well as offering 4X+ sizes.

Whatever your marketing needs…from give-away products, corporate wear, uniforms, event/organization wear & signage to hats, mugs, pens, portfolios and much more, Kerry and the LSM Team have you covered.

Call Kerry today to help you LOOK SHARP! Mention that you saw Kerry in She Means Business for a one-time special promotion during 2018.

(269)657-5646 ext. 23 kerry@looksharponline.com 37174 Red Arrow Hwy.| Paw Paw, MI

MSTOM, Dipl. OM

(269)353-3520 www.kzooacupuncture.com 5827 Oakland Dr., Portage, MI 49024 kalamazooacupuncture@gmail.com Jessica Silber was 5 years old when she decided she wanted to become a doctor. As she grew, her focus became more holistic and, on the advice of trusted mentors, she decided to pursue the study of acupuncture & Chinese Medicine at Pacific College of Oriental Medicine in Chicago. She’s owned her own acupuncture practice since 2009 and is also a nutrition and lifestyle coach/counselor. She specializes in women’s health, including infertility, pregnancy, menstrual cycle issues and PMS. She also helps women struggling with menopausal symptoms,

thyroid disorders, hormonal imbalances and more.

In her practice, Jessica helps patients with chronic pain (including migraine headaches) and treats those with anxiety, depression and insomnia. In addition, many patients are able to find relief from arthritis symptoms, allergies, digestive issues and trouble with weight management through acupuncture and Chinese medicine.

Jessica lives in Mattawan with her son Nolan, partner Tyler and his son Elliot.

She loves soccer and softball, longdistance running, playing the piano & rescuing animals for wildlife rehab.

N OT J U S T A N Y T E A M

YOUR TEAM

From left to right: Julie Vickery- Mortgage Loan Officer; Nancy TurtleCommunity Bank President; Valerie Messer- Senior Vice President, Retail Manager; Cindy Carter- Vice President, Branch Manager Lisa Carriveau- Senior Vice President, Commercial Banking Kim Labadie- Vice President, Treasury Sales

At Mercantile Bank we’ve assembled a team who’s invested in Southwest Michigan communities and the vibrant businesses and people who call this area home. Providing you with innovative and convenient business and personal banking tools to help you manage growth and feel connected to your finances at home or on the go. Local investment, local faces, local decisions, where and when you need them.

For banking that’s here to get you there, visit us at any of our area locations or at MercBank.com.

107 W Michigan Avenue Kalamazoo, MI 49007 269.553.9100 | www.MercBank.com 24

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Amber Jaramillo, MA, LLP

Mai Butler, MA, TLLP

Our dedicated therapists work with a wide range of clients from children to elderly, as well as individuals, couples, and families. Our therapists also collaborate with clients on range of concerns such as mood disorders, depression, anxiety, personality disorders, trauma, LGBTQIA issues, racial identity/race related stress and life transitions.

We also offer group therapy covering a variety of areas. Our therapists use various therapeutic strategies such as psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy and dialectical behavioral therapy so that each session is uniquely focused to help you.

Our therapists recognize that trauma, both new and old, can be difficult to deal with, especially when feelings of guilt, shame, vulnerability, anger, worthlessness, helplessness or powerlessness result. These feelings, however, do not have to continue. We collaborate to help you recognize your own strengths and resiliency so that you can move toward your life goals with personal satisfaction.

The therapists in our group also recognize that, at times, anxiety, depression, or personality struggles can cause you to feel desperate, isolated or even hopeless. Our therapists recognize that there may be times that you cannot articulate how you feel (or why), while other times, you may believe your emotions to be beyond your control. Our team will listen and cultivate a holistic approach to help you discover greater balance.

We first learned about relationships from our parents, family and social activities. We learned to communicate with people by what we learned at home. These communication patterns do not always serve us, as we may find ourselves not “speaking the same language.” Thus, relationships (in any dynamic) are complex and challenging. Whether that relationship is parent/child, sibling/ sibling or partner/partner knowing your “language” and that of

Greater Kalamazoo MAGAZINE | EXPO

Samantha Chilcote Ritenburgh, MA, LLP

Stacey Marquee, PhD, LLP

your loved-one is vital. Our therapists help you all examine your communication patterns and discover your “language” so that movement toward greater mutual understanding is made.

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The therapists at MEREDITH PSYCHOLOGICAL & TESTING SERVICES are dedicated to working with you as you navigate life challenges. Our mission is to create a safe, welcoming environment where you are comfortable enough to share and explore feelings, thoughts, actions, and issues that may be causing distress.

Rebecca Tuinstra, MA, TLLP

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Julie Davis, PhD, LP

Our therapists understand that sexuality, sexual identity and gender identity are self-determined truths that can, unfortunately, be stifled because of social expectations and pressures. These social expectations can cause negativity such as confusion, doubt and depression. Our therapists recognize the importance of acknowledging, embracing and affirming your sexuality, sexual identity and gender identity. We collaborate as you navigate fears, process stereotypes and affirm your truth.

Finally, our group conducts psychological assessments for children, adolescents and adults that are used to help understand patterns of thinking, learning and behavior. The tests given cover areas such as, IQ, learning disabilities, ADHD, language, memory/ dementia, mood and personality issues. Assessments for bariatric surgery, hormone therapy, gender reassignment and competency can also be given. Our assessment therapist discusses your specific concerns to determine the assessments to administer.

Once completed, a thorough report of the assessment findings, including diagnosis and recommendations, is generated.

THERAPY FOR INDIVIDUALS, COUPLES & FAMILIES

(269) 459-1818 | tara@kalamazoo-therapist.com meredithpsychologicalandtesting.com 5985 W. Main St., Suite 101, Kalamazoo September 2018

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Liz Deur, Assistant Service Manager; Ricki Brown, Toyota Care Specialist; Mary Peterson, Assistant Service Manager; Kat Kowalkska, Assistant Service Manager;

5850 Stadium Drive, Kalamazoo, MI (269) 375-1000 | www.Metro-Toyota.com

We are proud to be a part of the award-winning service excellence team at Metro Toyota! The friendly and fast paced environment at Metro makes it a very rewarding place to work. Our Day-to-day duties keep us on the move, assisting customers in the service lane, working with technicians, and answering general questions that customers have on their vehicles. As Toyota continually adds more and more technology and safety features to their vehicles, our product knowledge and technical training increases every year to ensure we are up on the latest vehicle improvements.

Having your car repaired isn’t fun, but our goal is to make your service appointment at Metro a convenient, stress-free and knowledgable experience!

MENTION “SHE MEANS BUSINESS” & WE’LL GIVE YOU A FREE CAR WASH!

Women of Fetzer Center Connie Peruchietti, Shannon Landis, Mary Zoeller, & Stacy Lindner-Travis are the women of the Fetzer Center, a facility that offers professional conference services as well as meeting, catering, and social event services.

ladies work tirelessly to make all events, including corporate meetings, banquets, & weddings run smoothly & all make time to give back to the community.

Connie spends her free time with her family, biking, practicing yoga, reading, Connie, Fetzer’s current Director, is a and watching WMU sports. Shannon Certified Meeting Planner with over loves watching sports with her family, twenty years at the facility. Shannon is concerts, & reading. Soccer mom Mary the Conference Service Manager and is a Chamber Ambassador and enjoys Wedding Coordinator, while Mary is an camping and being creative. When Stacy Outside Sales representative. Stacy is the is not busy with her husband and two newest member of the Fetzer team as active young children, she exercises to an Event and Wedding Planner. These counteract her sweet tooth.

269-387-3232 | Connie Peruchietti, Director

Western Michigan University | Kalamazoo, MI 49008 | 269-387-3232

Maria Sorrentino President of Pest Pros Maria is passionate about her work at Pest Pros, but more than that, she cares deeply about how she does it. She is in the pest control business, of course, but she believes her real purpose is to give people a better quality of life by helping them solve their pest problems. She has the same attitude when it comes to the people who work for her. One of her main goals as a business leader is to be voted the best place to work in Kalamazoo.

She firmly believes that if you treat your staff well, they will treat your customers well.

Maria loves business & her community.

She is part of many local business organizations, including Greater Kalamazoo Women’s LifeStyle MASTERMIND, Buy Local, The Kalamazoo Chamber of Commerce & MPWR Women’s Organization. Pest Pros is a company that values generosity & they support a number of charities that include Habitat for Humanity, Housing Resources & The American Heart Association.

Though Pest Pros is a newer company, opened in February, Maria and her team bring years of experience to the new venture. Their number one value is that they enjoy coming to work each and every day. They love what they do and who they do it with. They truly do enjoy helping others.

Maria and her husband live in Kalamazoo and have six children. The family loves animals and has a dog and six cats. She loves to read and socialize in her rare moments of free time.

PEST PROS OF MICHIGAN 2520 Azo Dr. | Kalamazoo, MI 49048 | (269)993-0051 | maria@pestprosmi.com 26

September 2018

WomensLifeStyleKazoo.com

(269) 998-4977 | www.std-op-sys.com jworden@std-op-sys.com | Kalamazoo, MI

Malorie Kwiatkowski, PA-C Malorie Kwiatkowski, PA-C is thrilled to be joining West Michigan Plastic Surgery as the lead provider for their Women’s Health division. Being able to work within the specialty of aesthetics and plastic surgery with a focus on women’s health is truly her dream job. She is excited about her new role and eager to help the women she serves become the best version of themselves.

Malorie loves her work as a Physician Assistant because it allows her to practice medicine in a hands-on way & finds great satisfaction in being able to improve women’s lives. West Michigan Plastic Surgery’s core belief that women deserve to thrive meshes well with Malorie’s values & makes it the perfect place for her to continue her career.

LEAD PROVIDER FOR WOMEN’S HEALTH Greater Kalamazoo MAGAZINE | EXPO

Malorie will be providing clinical patient care as well as specialized cosmetic services including Coolsculpting, injections and fillers.

She is especially enthusiastic about using the diVa laser to address women’s concerns regarding vaginal health. The procedure takes only 5 minutes, with three treatments spaced 4 to 6 weeks apart, with minimal to no discomfort.

Malorie spends most of her free time in the gym training in the sport of Olympic Weightlifting. She earned the title of University National Champion in 2017 and has been lifting at the national level since 2016.

WEST MICHIGAN PLASTIC SURGERY | 8175 Creekside Drive | Portage, MI 49024 269-222-1611 | www.wmips.com | info@wmips.com September 2018

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BUSINESS

SIESTA SILVER JEWELRY 269-548-7300 | SiestaSilverJewelry.com Karla@SiestaSilverJewelry.com

means

Jude Worden was pursuing an engineering degree at WMU when she was first introduced to the world of Computer Aided Design. She was immediately hooked and changed her major to Computer Science.

Knowing that her path did not lead to the corporate world, Jude took a leap of faith and opened Standard Operating Systems while she was still completing her degree. She hasn’t looked back since.

When Jude started her business in 1989, she was the only womanowned computer business in the greater Southwest Michigan area.

She began by assisting small to medium businesses with technology infrastructure to help maximize their success. As the business evolved, Jude has moved away from that and into the world of website design, SEO and app development, and continues to work hard to meet her customers’ needs and cultivate client relationships that last. She’s very proud to say that she still has her first two clients.

Jude and her partner, Katie, live and work in Kalamazoo and Leland.

Together, they have two golden retrievers. Jude is a competitive USPSA shooter and loves hiking and creating leather artwork.

SHE

Jude Worden Owner

Karla Piper is a devoted wife and mother who splits her time between caring for her family and her growing business, Siesta Silver Jewelry. Karla fell in love with hand crafted sterling silver on her honeymoon trip to Mexico and started Siesta Silver Jewelry in 2010. The artisans of Taxco in central Mexico create distinctive sterling silver accessories which Karla makes available through nationwide events, SiestaSilverJewelry.com as well as multiple retail outlets including Karla Piper the Detroit Institute of Arts Museum Shop Owner of Siesta Silver and Heritage Museums and Gardens. Siesta Jewelry has been featured in more than 10 national magazines as well as Atlas Obscura.

Each new design from Siesta’s Quilt Square line and the growing Fordite line disappear quickly. The Quilt Square line is based on geometric quilting patterns. Fordite is an amazing, colorful by-product of the traditional Detroit automotive paint process which cuts and polishes like natural agate.

Karla places a high priority on giving back to the community. She is a Special Olympics basketball coach and volunteers for Meals on Wheels. Siesta just completed the Paws for Penny campaign which raised over $5200 for a childhood friend fighting an inoperable brain tumor.

Karla and Mark love living in Vicksburg with their sons, James and Ryan, a college junior and a high school junior. In her down time Karla can be found on the tennis court, hiking the North Country Trail, or cheering on her Tigers.

BUSINESS

4154 Jennings Dr. Kalamazoo, MI 49048

SHE

means

Townsquare Media is a diversified media, entertainment, and digital marketing company that owns and operates marketleading radio, digital and live event properties in 66 markets across the U.S. It owns and operates four radio stations in Kalamazoo (103.3 WKFR, 107.7 WRKR, 1360 WKMI and K102.5) and is proud to manage more than 7 annual community events, including Kalamazoo Ribfest and Wine Not.

Heather McGregor

103.3 WKFR Morning Co-Host

Heather McGregor is grateful to be working in radio, a medium that “can touch hearts, inform minds & take people out of their own backyards to faraway lands”. Her love for radio traces back to her childhood & her youthful awe for the power of radio hasn’t dimmed one bit. Her motto in life & work is “Make them love you, make them love you. Just make them FEEL something”. When she’s not entertaining her listeners, Heather loves to skiing, boating & walking her sweet dog, Olive.

At GIRL SCOUTS HEART OF MICHIGAN, we are committed to building girls of confidence, courage, and character that make the world a better place.

Everything we do is centered on this core mission; we build leaders who seek opportunities to discover the world around them, connect with others, and advocate for the needs of their community. Girl Scouts is the premier leadership experience for girls, and the inclusive, all-female environment of a Girl Scout troop creates a safe space where girls can try new things, develop a range of skills, take on leadership roles, and just be themselves.

Girl Scouts fuels the female leadership pipeline, with 80% of female tech leaders, 76% of Untied States Senators, and 100% of female Secretaries of State being former Girl Scouts. Here at Girl Scouts Heart of Michigan, we are proud to empower and invest in our girls, the leaders of the future.

(269)344-0111 | Heather.McGregor@townsquaremedia.com

Kelly Troff

GIRL SCOUTS HEART OF MICHIGAN

601 W. Maple St | Kalamazoo, MI 269.343.1516 | gshom.org

Director of Sales

Kelly’s motto, “It’s not about ideas; it’s about making ideas happen” has been an excellent guide for her work helping clients make their businesses grow. Her passion for marketing has spanned decades, from her childhood days spent creating her own commercials to her current career as Director of Sales for Townsquare Media. She’s especially grateful for the connections her job has allowed her to make and how it has helped her grow. Kelly loves to be outdoors, whether it’s fishing, hiking, camping or just spending time with her family.

Amber Duncan has been in sales and marketing since graduating college in 2004. Early in her career, Amber gained experience running her own organization and building her own brand with the Kalamazoo Cobras. In January she was approached by turnkey merchandise programs to develop their brand. After learning about tmp’s web development capabilities and nationally renowned e-commerce stores, she knew they would be a perfect fit.

(269)978-2141 | kelly.troff@townsquaremedia.com

Kate Morton Market President & Chief Revenue Officer

It didn’t take long for Kate Morton to realize that Marketing might be the perfect place to blend her passion for creativity and her love of people. More than two decades after her High School teacher Ms. Werner suggested this path, Kate is thrilled to have a career that allows her to work with people at every level in all industries to develop strategic solutions to help their businesses grow. Kate loves spending time with her husband and children and enjoys boating, reading and playing golf, softball and basketball.

(269)978-2162 | kate.morton@townsquaremedia.com

Maya Mokrzan Live Events Manager & Promotions Director Maya Mokrzan knew she had a love for event planning when her and her grandma planned themed birthday parties every year.

Maya’s personal favorite was her murder mystery themed 14th birthday party! After discovering that Western Michigan University had an Event Management minor, she knew that she found the school for her. Maya graduated from WMU in 2017, and is thrilled to be working in a position where she gets to express her passion every day. In her free time, Maya loves to cook, go to Tiger’s baseball games and go on hikes with her boyfriend and dog, Harper.

(269)978-2167 | Maya.mokrzan@townsquaremedia.com

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September 2018

Amber Duncan

Business Development Director

turnkey merchandise programs, LLC (tmp) 5404 wayne rd., ste b battle creek, mi, 49037 269-910-0397

The company works with 25 national brands, including the American Heart Association, Autism Speaks, Detroit Diesel, USA Hockey, and Kellogg’s.

Amber’s role as business development director is to foster local relationships, improve the promotional products portion of the business, & build the brand with local partners.

Amber is a proud mother of two daughters and a son, and spends most of her free time cheering them on in their respective sports & hobbies. She loves to travel, go to the beach and read…things which are unfortunately rare during this busy season of life.

WomensLifeStyleKazoo.com

Hot deadline?

-----------------

Printing

1116 W Centre Avenue 323-9333 PortagePrinting.com

☎

Here’s a Thought…

Women’s Issues • One Woman’s Opinion

Embrace Your Inner-Weird A

s the Kalamazoo Growlers put the screws to the Rockford Rivets on a recent Saturday afternoon, a group of 50+ year-old people (men and women) sat under the baking sun, discussing what age they would choose if given the opportunity to travel back to a younger day. Not surprisingly, no one wanted anat McDonald’s to supplement college classes and nights at Wayside.

What was surprising is that no one in this lively group wanted to relive their thirties either. The overwhelming go-to age to revisit if given the chance?

Forty. Because it takes forty damn years to finally get comfortable in our skin and accepting of who we are. So, with help from the rearview mirror, here are the bits of wisdom I would share with my 18-year-old self.

Embrace your inner “weird” : Part theatre geek, part tomboy—I knew I wasn’t your average kid way back then. I just didn’t know that I could celebrate my quirky, inner-weird. Remember that oddly talented girl in school who didn’t care what people thought of her? Be her.

Relax: If only someone had taken me aside when I was an almost twenty and told me to relax, that I was only halfway to becoming my whole self. While teens 30-yearolds as being grownups, the truth is that, at 50+, I’m still looking forward to reaching grownup status.

Greater Kalamazoo MAGAZINE | EXPO

5 Life Tips I’d Share With my Younger Self

Take that summer job at Yellowstone: Or the camping trip with friends to the U.P. The point is, celebrate your newfound independence. You may think that you have your entire life to travel but life is about twists and turns, and before you know it, you’ll be pushing a stroller through Disney World and holding your mother’s hand in the nursing home. It really does go that fast, so it’s OK to be a little selfish now.

If I had to live my life again, I’d make the same mistakes, only sooner. - Tallulah Bankhead

Make your own mistakes: Oprah Magazine once featured the following tips for succeeding in life: “Learn from the mistakes made by others.” I could not disagree more, for I have never learned from watching others make mistakes.

In fact, if you’re not making mistakes, you’re not living.

Legendary actress Tallulah Bankhead had it right with her wisdom that mistakes should be made often and earlier.

Don’t spend your life on the sidelines watching others

have all the fun; make your own mistakes.

Heck, I don’t even care if you make some of the same mistakes twice.

Own your chutzpah: After women of the sixties and seventies fought for equal rights, the next generation tended to coast on the subject of women’s issues. They believed that they were now on equal footing with their male counterparts. Looking back on my earlier career path, I realize just how far I was from having my foot in the Boys’ Club.

Heidi McCrary is a writer and co-owner of Ad Shop, etc. – a boutique advertising agency offering full-service and a lá carte marketing services to local businesses. Contact Heidi at heidi@adshopetc.com and on Facebook at adshopetc.

September 2018

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shop

IT till you drop IT

V

endor relationships are important and certainly necessary but your IT vendor is likely a cost center instead of a revenue generator. Lessening expenses on commodity IT service allows your business to invest in revenue generating endeavors like marketing, sales, support staff, training and research and development.

Step one:

Evaluate expenses. This includes, but is not limited to, computers, printers, telephone service, software, email and other technology-related things your business spends money on without giving it much thought. Office 365, for example, is often touted by industry experts as a good choice but doesn’t make financial sense for firms of a certain size or scale. SEO (Search Engine Optimization) for websites is another typical cost center with variable value for smaller businesses and is often vaguely explained or understood by those selling it. In some cases, redirecting SEO money into marketing on social media and connecting with users in a more personal way is a better use of limited finances. Remember there is no silver bullet. There is value in continual improvement and assessment of business costs, including any IT vendor relationships you may have. Taking the opportunity to do a little “house cleaning” can pay off in big ways.

Step two:

shop IT till you drop IT. You have alternative IT solution providers in your region. Because of a glut of IT providers in the market, most providers are commodity brokers (meaning they all sell basically the same products). Most economists would tell you competition on this level should lower prices but many IT solution providers overvalue themselves and most are charging similarly high prices for the commodity work they do.

Customers shouldn’t have to pay a premium for a commodity. Consider contacting a few providers and ask for competitive bids. Don’t be afraid to let them know exactly what you’re doing. They should ask what you have, how you use it and seek to understand how your business works before offering up solutions and pricing. The only way for them to know what you really need is to ask questions!

Step three:

Compare bid proposals, contracts, costs and potential value to your business. Ask for things to be explained and jot those explanations down so you can later assess their recommendations for yourself.

For example, you might often hear the buzzword “cloud” as a magical solution to IT problems.

Cloud, much like SEO, is often misunderstood by those who sell it. Cloud is a method of storing and using information and software applications from a number of offsite servers via the internet, insuring that failure of one source doesn’t interrupt service.

Many vendors selling cloud are actually selling hosting services that reside in a single instance, on a single server, in a single location and isn’t distributed at all. Companies often misunderstand the two terms entirely. You should pay a lot less for hosting than you would for cloud. Cloud is far more complex and should have 100% uptime with respect to connectivity.

Summary:

IT solution providers are, by in large, commodity brokers so if you’re not paying commodity prices now is a great time to re-evaluate your vendor relationship and shop IT till you drop IT. IT services are available in varying degrees of price, quality and service. Does your business have basic IT requirements or do you have specialized concerns around governmental regulation? What is your current provider telling you about meeting those requirements and at what price?

Can you shop around and find a better deal from a company offering the same thing or pay even less for a better solution and better service? It is easier to switch providers than you might think and you may find yourself saving a significant amount of money on your bottom line year over year doing so.

Rafael has owned and operated EITS since 2002 and has become an expert IT generalist. He has a team of experts who design, deploy and support IT systems throughout Michigan

WHY EXPRESS IT SOLUTIONS? express

IT solutions, LLC

Visit us today at eitsonline.com or call 800-864-9497

Express IT Solutions is a no-contracts, value-driven IT solutions provider servicing Kalamazoo, Battle Creek, Jackson, Lansing, Grand Rapids…and anywhere in between.

WE OFFER:

consulting ∙ systems engineering ∙ IoT ∙ cloud database ∙ business intelligence ∙ web tech + other services including commodity support

We offer technical expertise that has a real effect on your bottom line. Whether you’re a small or medium business… or an international behemoth, EITS can help.

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September 2018

WomensLifeStyleKazoo.com

Excuse the Messy Hair:

A Reflection on Living without Apology

BY SHAHAD ALZAIDAN

I feel so empowered! I just ran 5 miles for the first time without stopping; please excuse the messy hair and no makeup.” Does that last part sound familiar? This startling trend of sharing accomplishments, followed by an apologetic qualifier has become a social norm.

Somehow, as a means of downplaying our own gifts and shifting focus away from the parts we deem unworthy, we have become accustomed to readily apologizing for perceived grievances. So what would happen if we instead chose to live life unapologetically and steadfastly chased our dreams, messy hair and all?

The Ambrosial Jewel

Sixty-five years ago on the September 27, in the heart of a distant village in Kerala, Southern India, a humble fishmonger and his wife welcomed a baby girl into their growing family; they named her Sudhamani, meaning Ambrosial Jewel. Unlike most other children, who greeted the world with their cries at birth, this bewildering child came out of the womb smiling. Her skin, tinged in an almost dark blue shade, shocked her parents, who worried about the health of their newborn. While she thankfully grew into a healthy child, there was no doubt that Sudhamani was extraordinary.

At the age of five, the distinctively wise Sudhamani would spend hours by the seashore, singing blissfully and dancing with abandon, and at times, even delving into deep meditation. Her celestial disposition was not always met with appreciation however; none too impressed with her spiritual nature, she became the recipient of many a scolding from her conservative family. Still she persisted, composing heartfelt, devotional hymns to accompany her song and dance.

Sadly, after her mother fell ill, she was withdrawn from school at the age of nine, and was tasked with the household chores. Bearing the additional burden of taking care of her six siblings, Sudhamani would now spend her days going from door to door, gathering scraps of food to help feed her family and their animals.

Greater Kalamazoo MAGAZINE | EXPO

As she ventured out into her community, she couldn’t help but notice the intense poverty and suffering surrounding her.

In a desperate attempt to aid the anguished, Sudhamani would bring food and clothing from her own impoverished home to others in need. As people shared their sorrows with her, she empathetically embraced them.

So what would happen if we instead chose to live life unapologetically and steadfastly chased our dreams, messy hair and all?

She was defying the rules of the caste system placed in her community, associating with the “untouchables” and hugging all who came to her, including the forbidden men. She continually rejected her parents’ futile attempts at getting her to marry, determined to journey on her own path.

Undeterred from the harsh punishments she received for these acts, Sudhamani continued to reach out to people in her own way, holding the distressed, spreading love and compassion wherever she went.

Her unconditional embraces earned her the name Amma (Mother). Today, Amma has hugged more than 36 million people worldwide, and is revered as a saint by her followers.

Meeting Amma

This past summer, I had the privileged opportunity to hug Amma myself. Hundreds upon hundreds of people from all walks of life lined up in hopes of hugging the legendary guru. We shuffled into the building with excitement, hands clutching the worn out tokens granting us access. Gigantic ornate chandeliers, set against rows of fluorescent lighting, lit our way, while the enticing aromas of traditional Indian fare and incense lured us further into the space. The massive hall was buzzing with sounds of laughter from the gleeful folk, set against the soft sniffles and tears of those in sorrow. As Amma entered the hall, the chattering quieted down. She took center stage, and sat down to signal the commencement of the group meditation. Confession time: sometimes, during meditation, I open my eyes. I figure if anyone sees me with my eyes open that means theirs are open too, and our secrets are safe with each other.

So I took a deep breath and glanced at the crowd around me. I noticed that the vast sea of people surrounding me was made up of individuals who were gathered here, in essence, because of one single decision that was made. This honored woman refused to be crumpled under societal pressure. She chose to pursue her dream despite tremendous opposition and in doing that, influenced millions around the globe. She is Amma, and unapologetically so.

Pursuing Your Path Unapologetically

Can you imagine the esteemed Amma apologizing for her messy topknot? It sounds ludicrous and almost blasphemous! The reality is, the same divinity that lies within the hugging saint, lies within you. So the next time you hear or make a qualifying apology, remember the little girl with the brave spirit so freely dancing on the shores of a remote coastal village in Southern India. If that little girl can grow up to be Amma, what can’t you do?

September 2018

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IS YOUR SPOUSE/PARTNER IN YOUR FINANCIAL LOOP?

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

I

n an interview on MsMoney.com, Kerry Hannon, author of Suddenly Single: Money Skills for Divorcees and Widows, said she wrote her latest book after seeing loved ones face financial difficulties, after becoming widowed or divorced. “Some didn’t even know where their investments, insurance policies and the like were, or have a grip on their cost of living,” Hannon told MsMoney.com.

Being clueless about the family finances isn’t a gender issue. Plenty of men rely on their wives to pay bills, put money aside for savings and retirement, and keep important documents safely stored. If you’re the one responsible for the household investing and finances, you need to make sure you are keeping your spouse/partner in the loop. That includes: • Knowing the names, firms and phone numbers for key advisors including your investment manager, accountant and estate attorney.

• Knowing where key documents, such as insurance policies, copies of your wills and investment account statements, are stored.

• Having an overall idea of your financial situation.

• Knowing where all banking and investment accounts are held.

Even a non-working spouse should have an estate plan that includes cash and investments, real estate and insurance proceeds. Life insurance on the nonworking spouse can also help offset expenses, such as childcare that may be needed after her death.

If you have an elderly parent who is widowed or divorced, you may want to have the same discussion, If a parent plans to leave a sizable estate to a child, it’s important that the heir know where documents have been kept and which key advisors to contact.

If you have trouble figuring out what your spouse does and does not need to know, ask yourself this question: If tomorrow I were killed in an accident,

what would my spouse need to know to ensure the family could survive financially?

THE BOTTOM LINE: Keep each other in the loop, know where important documents are located, and have a contingency plan for the unexpected. Know your deadlines, act in a timely manner and seek professional advice where needed.

Upon inheriting a traditional Individual Retirement Account (IRA) or assets from another retirement plan, you’ll need to make important decisions by deadlines that can easily slip by during emotionally difficult times.

These decisions will hinge on personal circumstances and factors that can be complex.

Failing to act on time could have long-term repercussions and cost you serious money.

Start by getting together your paperwork – including the beneficiary designation form for the inherited account.

You may need help sorting out your options, but you must always keep the following deadlines in mind:

WITHIN NINE MONTHS FROM DATE OF DEATH, file a disclaimer if you so choose. Suppose you’ve inherited the IRA from your late husband.

Meeting this deadline allows you, as primary beneficiary, to give up all or part of your interest in the IRA. But why forfeit those assets? It could help reduce income taxes and leave more to your child or grandchild. When you disclaim an IRA, assets pass to a contingent beneficiary such as your child or maybe a charity.

DEC. 31 OF THE YEAR OF DEATH is the date by which you may need to take a distribution. If the IRA owner had started taking required distributions after turning 70½ but did not take the distribution for the year he or she died, you must withdraw the full required amount or pay a penalty of 50 percent

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

Old National Bank, Old National Investments, and LPL Financial are separate entities.

Why Old National Investments?

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

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

of the amount that should have been withdrawn.

SEPT. 30 OF THE YEAR FOLLOWING THE DEATH is the deadline for splitting the IRA into separate shares or accounts if multiple primary beneficiaries were named on the account. This is advantageous if a non-spouse inherits the IRA: He or she can take withdrawals over his or her individual life expectancy, which could reduce the size and tax consequences of mandatory distributions. This date also ends the period during which beneficiaries can disclaim or cash out their portions of the account.

However, this is not a deadline for the surviving spouse to decide whether to leave the IRA in the deceased’s name or place the assets in the survivor’s account. A spouse can make that choice at any time.

OCT. 31 OF THE YEAR FOLLOWING DEATH is the deadline for the trustee (if a trust is beneficiary) to send the IRA custodian either a copy of the trust document or a certification of the trust’s beneficiaries and their rights to the IRA. DEC. 31 OF THE YEAR FOLLOWING DEATH is the deadline by which many inheritors must take their first distribution from the account or suffer the 50 percent penalty. If an account that has cobeneficiaries is not split by this date, the younger inheritors will forever have to receive larger than necessary withdrawals. This could deplete the account faster than otherwise.

ALL ROTH IRA CONTRIBUTIONS are non-deductible, and all of the contributions are considered basis and can be withdrawn tax-free.

The earnings also can be withdrawn tax-free as long as the account was held for more than five years (including the time it was held by the person from whom you inherited it).

The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual.

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

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

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

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September 2018

WomensLifeStyleKazoo.com

Comfort Foods for Autumn Creamy Shrimp Chowder

2 lbs. raw shrimp; tails removed 1 package smoked sausage (if your pack has 3 large links, only use 2) 6-8 red potatoes (cube into bite sized chunks) 16 ounce Velveeta cheese 1 block cream cheese 1 stick butter 1 quart half & half 2 cans whole kernel corn (drained) 2 cans creamed corn 1 can Rotel tomatoes (mild) 1 T. Tony Chachere’s creole seasoning

Boil cubed potatoes until tender & set aside.

In large soup pot, combine: Velveeta, cream cheese, butter and half & half. Cook over medium heat (stirring fairly constantly) until ingredients are melted into a creamy base.

Add boiled potatoes to the soup base. Make sure smoked sausage is cooked through and dice into bite sized pieces; add to soup base. Add drained corn, creamed corn, Rotel tomatoes and creole seasoning. Cook over low heat for approximately 20 minutes.

Cut shrimp into bite size pieces and add to soup during the last 3-5 minutes of cooking.

Dutch-Oven Crusty Bread

3 C. all-purpose flour 1 3/4 t. salt 1/2 t. active dry yeast 1 1/2 C. water, room temperature

In a large bowl combine the flour, salt and yeast. Pour water into the bowl and, using a spatula or a wooden spoon, mix it until well combined. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it sit on your counter for 12 to 18 hours.

Place your cast iron Dutch oven in the oven and preheat to 450 degrees.

Remove the pot from the oven and remove the lid. Sprinkle some flour or cornmeal on the bottom of the pot to keep bread from sticking to the pan.

Flour your hands well and also sprinkle a bit of flour over the dough. With your floured hands gently remove the dough from the bowl and roughly shape it into a ball. Take the ball of dough and drop it into the pot. Cover the pot with the lid and place it back in the oven.

Bake for 30 minutes with the lid on, after which remove the lid and bake for another 15 to 20 minutes until golden brown. Remove the bread from the pot, it should fall out easily. Let cool completely before slicing into it and serving.

Classic Chocolate Meringue Pie CHOCOLATE FILLING

1 C. sugar

1/4 C. plus 1 t. cornstarch 1/4 C. unsweetened cocoa 1/4 t. salt

1 1/2 C. whole milk

½ C. evaporated milk 4 extra-large egg yolks, beaten 2 T. butter 1 T. vanilla extract

Prepare pie crust according to directions.

Preheat the oven to 325 degrees.

Prepare Chocolate Filling. In a medium saucepan combine sugar, cornstarch, unsweetened cocoa and salt. Gradually whisk in both milks. Cook, whisking constantly, over medium-high heat until mixture comes to a boil. Boil for 1 minute (continue whisking).

Remove from heat and gradually whisk a small amount of hot mixture into egg yolks. Continue to add hot mixture to egg yolks while whisking constantly until approximately 1/4 of the mixture has been added to the egg yolks. Pour egg yolk mixture into the saucepan and whisk well. Cook mixture, stirring constantly, over medium heat for 3 minutes. Remove from heat and whisk in butter and

Greater Kalamazoo MAGAZINE | EXPO

1 Pie Crust

MERINGUE

5 extra-large egg whites, room temperature 1/4 t. cream of tartar 1/4 C. sugar

vanilla extract. Cover with plastic wrap and keep warm.

Prepare meringue. Using an electric or stand mixer, beat egg whites and cream of tartar at high speed until foamy. Gradually add sugar, 1 tablespoon at a time. Beat until stiff peaks form and sugar dissolves.

Pour chocolate filling into pie crust.

Spread meringue over filling, sealing the edges. Bake at 325 degrees for 20 minutes, or until meringue is golden. Cool completely before slicing.

After baking, cool on the counter for 1 hour and then place in refrigerator uncovered for 3 to 6 hours before slicing.

September 2018

33

than non-Girl Scouts with regard to all five leadership outcomes. Girl Scouting particularly impacts girls’ abilitie to step outside their comfort zones, manage healthy relationships, and be civically engaged in their communities. For example, three out of five Girl Scouts seek challenges and develop healthy relationships compared to only two in five non-Girl Scouts, and Girl Scouts are twice as likely as non-Girl Scouts to identify and solve problems in their communities.

What’s a Girl to Do? Does everyone lose when girls are forced to choose between GIRL SCOUTS and the all new SCOUTS ?

W

ith the simple removal of one word, a firestorm opened up on a centuriesold organization known for helping boys build campfires and character.

After recent years of facing criticism and opposition from the socially-minded community for suppressing freedom of gender preference and identification, the Boy Scouts of America (BSA) is soon changing the name of their Boy Scouts program to simply, SCOUTS BSA. The organization’s name will remain the same— only the program name is changing.

While this has appeased the more progressive-minded, some parents along with many in the faith-leaning population are taking the organization to task, claiming that BSA is pandering to leftwing activists and losing its way as an organization established with the mission to assist young men on their adventure of exploring life and their own identity. No girls allowed.

After all, girls have their own organization. Girl Scouts *The Girl Scout Impact Study of the USA has been around for nearly as long as BSA (1910 and 1912 respectively) and offers not only the “get your fingernails dirty” camp-style activities found at BSA but also programs that appeal specifically to girls. With the new Welcome Girls! sign now hanging over the door at BSA, where does this leave the parents of little Emma who’s looking for a merit badge? And what does this mean for the once-amicable relationship between Girls Scouts and BSA?

BOYS ONLY Welcome Girls!

With the announcement of the new Scouts program, BSA faces the loss of support from the Mormon Church which has declared that they are severing ties with BSA and taking the memberships of over 400,000 boys with them. With BSA membership numbers falling at an alarming rate, growth needs to come from somewhere and while targeting girls may seem like a logical solution, it comes at the expense of another organization whose sole mission is to provide a safe environment where young women can empower themselves while gaining compassion, courage and confidence. And like the BSA, Girl Scouts is experiencing its own recruitment challenges. Children today have a multitude of afterschool activities from which to choose—from soccer, dance and cheerleading to debate, tennis, volunteering and theatre. Parents are overwhelmed, and children are stretched tighter than rubber bands, resulting in families passing on signing their children up for an organization that may have endured past its relevance years ago.

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Except it hasn’t. In fact, both organizations offer more benefits than ever for boys and girls. And today, as women recognize that they no longer have to sit on the sidelines, girls now have the option of joining Girl Scouts or the soon to be, Scouts, BSA. Though both organizations have much to offer young women, the two organizations still differ on many fronts, with Girl Scouts still offering a tremendous advantage over Scouts, BSA.

Studies within Girl Scouts show that young women partaking in activities within a single-gender environment achieve greater growth & satisfaction in a variety of ways…

BETTER PERFORMANCE – Improved scores on achievement tests in a variety of subjects STRONGER AMBITIONS – Higher career and educational aspirations SCHOOL COMPLETION – More likely to finish high school SELF-CONFIDENCE – Enhanced selfassurance and positive personal judgement EMPLOYMENT SECURITY – Higher probability of employment after graduation SOCIAL AWARENESS – More politically and socially aware and involved

WomensLifeStyleKazoo.com

 Are less likely to be unemployed after graduation schools to a variety of extracurricular activities. While these co-ed  Report a more positive self-concept settings have benefits for our children, there are also benefits to be Girl Scouting gives girls the chance to gain these benefits, and to found in single-sex settings and organizations. And that is where develop civic and leadership skills as part of a girl-led organization. the Girl Scouts can provide a definite advantage for girls!

When girls are in single-sex learning environments, they:*

Girls and boys benefit more in single sex environments when it comes to*:

Girl Scouting gives girls the chance to gain these benefits, and to develop civic and leadership skills as part of a girl-led organization.

* Mael, F., Alonso, A., Gibson, D., Rogers, K. & Smith, M. (2005). Single Sex Versus Coeducational Sc

      

Perform better on achievement tests in all subjects Report higher career and educational aspirations Are more likely to complete high school Report feeling more control over their lives Are more politically involved Are less likely to be unemployed after graduation Report a more positive self-concept

      

Achievement tests (all subjects) Career aspirations Time spent on homework School completion Post-secondary unemployment Perceptions of learning environment Opportunities for leadership goals

Whether parents choose to enroll their daughters in at Scouts, BSA where building campfires and racing What’s new at Girl Scouts besides the new gluten-free Girls and boys more in single sex environments Girl Scouts or Scouts, BSA, benefit the good news is that caramel chocolate chip cookie? Girl Scouts unleashes pinewood derby cars are commonplace. girls now have ait choice.

While Scouts, BSA is now the G.I.R.L. (Go-getter, Innovator, Risk-taker, when comes to*: Not everyone is thrilled about the news of Scouts, BSA Leader)™ in every girl, preparing her for a lifetime welcoming & actively recruiting girls, it’s safe to say  Achievement tests (all subjects) opening its doors to girls. Girl Scouts CEO Sylvia that this organization was created with young men in of leadership—from taking a night-time hike under  erasing Careerthe aspirations Acevedo is quoted in a recent USA Today article as mind, & simply word Boy isn’t going to the stars to accepting a mission on the International saying, “ We are disappointed that Boy Scouts of  of Time spent onthat homework erase decades a belief system this organization Space Station; from lobbying the city council with her America has chosen to open its program to girls in was created as a School place where boys can be boys, & girls troop to holding a seat in Congress; from running her completion contravention of its charter, rather than focusing on are an afterthought. own cookie business today to tackling cybersecurity  Post-secondary unemployment the 90% of American boys not being served by Boy tomorrow.  are Perceptions of learning environment So, while girls soon to be welcome at Scouts, BSA, Scouts. We believe strongly in the importance of the  Opportunities forsetting leadership goals safe, all-girl, girl-led and girl-friendly environment that Scouts, BSA will never replace Girl Scouts and it Girl Scouts offers a more complete for programs and activities designed for young women. shouldn’t. Instead, parents need to simply see it as one Girl(2005).

ScoutsSingle provides.” * Mael, F., Alonso, A., Gibson, D., Rogers, K. & Smith, M. Sex Versus Coeducational Schooling: A Systematic Review.

Even still, for young women looking for something more option for young women—& that’s a good thing.

Even locally, Girl Scouts is feeling the pressure of the more hands-on, Scouts, BSA may be the answer. A push by the local Scouts, BSA Chapter to enlist mother in West Michigan recently concluded that the Heidi McCrary is a writer and cogirls—believing that Scouts BSA is undermining the Girl Scouts was not a good for fit for her daughter owner of Ad Shop, etc. – a boutique principle mission of the Girl Scouts—providing girls when she complained that her troupe, “Did a lot of advertising agency offering full-service and a lá carte marketing services with experiences and adventures in a safe all-female sitting around, talking about feelings.” While Girl to local businesses. Contact Heidi environment while also serving as a support system to Scouts offers a balanced focus ranging from science at heidi@adshopetc.com and on young women during challenging times in their lives. and life skills classes to political and entrepreneurship Facebook at adshopetc. programs, this particular girl might feel more at home

Start Your Adventure!

Have Fun • Make Friends • gshom.org • 800-497-2688

#GirlScoutStrong Every Girl Can Be a Girl Scout.

Membership Scholarships are Available.

Untitled-2 1

Greater Kalamazoo MAGAZINE | EXPO

Girls! Join Now

8/14/2018 5:16:05 PM

September 2018

35

Explore Alternative Financing for Your

Small Business

G

rowth is one of the biggest indicators of small business success. According to the Small Business Administration (SBA), more than 500,000 businesses had between 20 and 99 employees as of 2014. These established businesses are in the upper end of growth but have not yet met the threshold of being a medium business. In fact, 39 percent of growing companies between three to five years old and seeking more than $100,000 consider accessibility to capital their greatest concern.

Where can they turn for funding? These three alternative options may be worth considering.

Lines of Credit

Lines of credit provided by online lending platforms offer established businesses in all industries the flexibility and convenience of accessible capital.

In most cases, there are no fees to apply for a line of credit or annual costs to access funding. Small businesses don’t pay a thing to see for how much their business can qualify. Kabbage, an online lending platform, offers access to lines of credit up

to $250,000, helping small to mid-market businesses access funding for operational costs and strategic investments like cash flow needs, purchasing specialized equipment, business expansions and launching high-growth marketing projects. There are also no obligations in how much a business is required to take. Companies can take the amount they need from the line of credit when they need it, with no hidden fees or pre-payment penalties.

Merchant Cash Advances

Some established businesses turn to a merchant cash advance (MCA) due to lower credit ratings, not having enough assets to provide as collateral, short-term financing needs or the flexible repayment terms.

An MCA is an advance on future credit card payments.

The cash advance is decided upon by the funding company, with the specific amount being paid back in full plus fees and interest.

With merchant cash advances, borrowers pay a set percentage of their credit card sales and make payments every time they receive credit card payments from clients.

COURTESY OF BPT

Invoice Factoring

Invoice factoring is another funding option established businesses use in lieu of bank loans. Factoring is the process of selling accounts receivables to a financing company for immediate cash.

Factoring helps businesses receive cash much faster than waiting for clients to pay their invoices. The financing company, known as the “factor,” pays the business the majority of the invoice upfront. Once the business receives payment from the client, they send those funds to the factor. The factor then pays the remaining percentage to the business.

Factors are more concerned with the financial health of the business’s clients rather than the business itself.

These companies collect directly from a company’s clients and customers, sometimes requiring payment history validation from the business.

A benefit of factoring is not assuming debt for money received; however, if clients are not credit worthy, you may not receive funding.

HIGHEST CASH PRICE PAID: Gold & Silver Jewelry ⁕ Diamonds Watches ⁕ Silverware & More

Romantica Jewelers 3104 Oakland Dr. Kalamazoo 49008 | 269.388.4617

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September 2018

WomensLifeStyleKazoo.com

LOOK WHO’S TALKING

Debi Howe

When SCORE Kalamazoo/SW Michigan was honored with the 2018 Chapter of the Year by the Michigan Small Business Association, Chair Debi Howe couldn’t have been more pleased. Not only did it serve as recognition of the hard work that SCORE volunteers pour into the Southwest Michigan community throughout the year, it means that she’s making headway in her goal: making Michigan a place her kids can live and work.

SCORE provides free and confidential business advice to individuals who need help navigating the world of small businesses. Whether they need help starting a company, growing their business, dealing with unexpected bumps in the road or simply want the wisdom that only someone who’s been there can provide, SCORE can meet that need. This much-needed advice and mentoring comes from SCORE’s dedicated group of volunteers comprised of experienced executives and entrepreneurs who want to give back to their community by using their time and talent to build a vibrant local business culture.

Debi herself joined SCORE Kalamazoo/SW Michigan in 2016 as a mentor, eager to put her business acumen to good use. She started her own company in 1991 with only seven employees and one client.

By the time she sold it in 2003, the company, which

LOOK WHO’S TALKING

provided tele-detailing, alternative marketing and computer modeling for healthcare organizations, employed around 400 people and claimed every major pharmaceutical company as a client. That very same year, when Pfizer decided to relocate their research and leadership team to New York, Debi found herself assisting several of the PhDs who stayed behind to start their own companies.

By October of 2017 Debi became the Chair of the Kalamazoo/SW Michigan chapter of SCORE. Her work ethic and faith in people serve her well in this position. She firmly believes in the potential of people to shine, if given the chance. She believes in holding herself to high standards and is thrilled to be surrounded by people who do the same. She’s inspired daily by the passion shown by both the mentors who selflessly serve and the clients who have such inventive and exciting ideas to bring to the world.

Debi is the proud mother of two grown children; a daughter and a son. She has three granddaughters (ages 5, 3 and one month old) whom she adores.

When she’s not spending time with her family she is thrilled to be able give back through her work with SCORE. For more information about volunteer and mentorship opportunities, contact Debi at debi. howe@scorevolunteer.org.

Loretta Cipkus Dubray When Michigan Celebrates Small Business announced its 2018 list for its Michigan 50 Companies to Watch, President and CEO Loretta Cipkus Dubray was thrilled to see her company, Global Clinical Connections, named as an Awardee.

This Portage company works with Biotech and Pharma companies in helping get life-changing drugs to market. They work with clinical trial drugs that are undergoing clinical trials all over the world.

Loretta and her team work with drugs for cancer, pain, AIDS, Muscular Dystrophy and more, a fact she finds deeply satisfying. Knowing that the work her company does helps to improve lives all over the world inspires and motivates Loretta daily.

Loretta has always had a deep and interest in science and its potential to change the world. She earned both a Bachelor and Master’s Degree in Biology from John Carroll University and received a Certification in Executive Leadership from the University Notre Dame. With her desire to help people and interest in understanding how things work, starting Global Clinical Connections was a natural choice. Her work allows her to be part of the process of bringing life-saving drugs to patients who desperately need them.

Greater Kalamazoo MAGAZINE | EXPO

To ensure the success of the business, Global Clinical Connections hires the most talented people around.

Loretta and her staff work hard and strive for the best. Loretta never takes anything for granted, including the privilege of providing employment to people. Believing that curiosity is a virtue, Loretta reads voraciously and dedicates much of her time serving the community in a number of local organizations. She’s passionate about leaving a sustainable planet for the next generation, maintaining the advances women have made over the years and investing in the children that represent the future of this world.

Loretta and her husband, Ray, are happily married with two daughters, Monica and Olivia. Her innate sense of curiosity shows itself in her personal life as well. She teaches water aerobics and group cycling, is an avid gardener and loves to travel whenever her schedule allows. She enjoys attending rock concerts and is unusually talented at “Name that Tune”. A perfect day for Loretta includes an early morning workout, catching up with a friend over breakfast and a lazy afternoon. Then, in the evening, she would explore local sights and sounds and share a good meal with her husband, Ray.

September 2018

37

RESTAURANT

Reviews

Crow’s Nest

$$

816 S Westnedge Ave Kalamazoo, MI 49008 We ordered the Davidstown Freighter Sandwich…a big name for a big sandwich! This dish has just become a new favorite. The prosciutto, goat cheese and eggs are all brought together by a zesty red pepper aioli with just the right amount of heat and flavor. The sour dough bread was amazing and held its shape even when piled high with spinach, tomato and onions. We opted for the fruit as a side and received the freshest fruit in generous proportions.

One could easily get two meals out of this one sandwich! Rating: YUM!!! Let’s do this again.

The Master-at-Arms could easily make two full meals. The light and fluffy eggs paired perfectly with the rich and zesty sausage gravy. The onion, peppers, garlic and cheese took this delicious dish to the next level. Offered with a choice of toast, this served as both breakfast and lunch for the day.

The wait staff was very friendly and the restaurant, while small, was very clean and comfortable. The menu has something for everyone, including a large number of vegan options. Unless you are a very early riser, be prepared to wait for a table, but the food is well worth the wait.

J. Gumbo’s

3205 Westnedge Ave. Kalamazoo, MI 49001 J. Gumbo’s allows you to mix up to three different types of entrees in one bowl. We chose the White Chili with the Bumblebee Stew. As we suspected, the combination of the White Chili with its hints of Cajun spices, jalapeno and dill was perfect the perfect complement to the Bumblebee Stew’s blend of corn, tomatoes and black beans in a creamy sweet and spicy butter sauce. Both of our choices were vegetarian but were hearty enough to satisfy the biggest appetites. With the addition of a soda, this lunch cost less than $15 and kept us satisfied all day. We topped this irresistible blend with sour cream and cheddar cheese and enjoyed it with a side of sweet cornbread.

$= under $10 $$= $11-$30 $$$= $31-$60 $$$$= above $61

The staff is friendly, knowledgeable and always seems to make the correct suggestion. An added bonus is that you can taste test everything before you order, ensuring you get the best possible lunch for your palate. J. Gumbo’s eclectic atmosphere features a funky mix of color, industrial components, art, music and “crystal” chandeliers.

Price range is the APPROXIMATE cost per person for a meal incl. one drink, tax and tip.

The Rock at Big Fish Lake

$$$

14625 Loveridge, Marcellus, MI 49067

Located on Big Fish Lake in Marcellus, The Rock is a 30 minute drive from the Kalamazoo area and worth every minute of the ride. There were four in our party, so we got to sample a wide range of items from the menu.

We started with the Crispy Steak Bites and the Spicy Shrimp Sauté. The steak bites are served with a peppercorn cream and a blue cheese dipping sauce. The steak bites have a perfectly spiced batter and are fried until crisp on the outside and very tender on the inside.

The two dipping sauces were the perfect accompaniments.

The shrimp were served on grilled crostini bread with a Creole butter sauce. The shrimp were fresh, delicious and cooked to perfection. The sauce is extraordinary and we were thankful for the sauce drenched crostini waiting at the bottom of the bowl.

The entrees we ordered were equally delightful. The Goat Cheese-Stuffed Chicken Breast featured a bone-in chicken breast stuffed with goat cheese, baby spinach, & sun-dried tomatoes. It was served with a roasted garlic cream sauce. The goat cheese blended with the tomatoes & cream sauce to make the perfect combination.

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September 2018

$$

The French Cut Bone-In Pork Chop is a large pork chop, hand-cut daily and grilled. It was tender and juicy. The balsamic glazed Brussel sprouts (on special that night) took the pork chop to new heights.

The Full Rack of BBQ Ribs was fall-off-thebone tender and the sweet and smoky sauce was beautifully caramelized. The New York Strip Steaks are hand-cut daily and are center-cut aged certified choice beef available in 12, 16 and 18 ounce cuts. The steak was cooked to a perfect medium-rare and the tobacco onions (fried onion straws) were a wonderful addition to the steak.

We wrapped up our visit with a Chocolate Martini and split a slice of the Salted Caramel Crunch Cake. The martini was smooth and rich with the perfect balance of alcohol and sweetness. The cake was a hit at our table with its crunchy, creamy and perfectly balanced flavors.

We can’t wait until our next visit to The Rock at Big Fish Lake.

WomensLifeStyleKazoo.com

Three Tips to Boost Your Career in Five Minutes Courtesy of BPT

celebrate the unifying power of the world’s music!

october 5 – november 25 over 17 events presented by

A

s industries evolve at pace with developing technologies, so must workers.

If you want to improve your marketability and get ahead in your career, consider valuable skills that could open the door to new opportunities.

With tools and online courses, you can explore and develop critical skills anytime, anywhere.

www.ccmusicfest.com

“Experience never gets old, but your skills can,” says Marci Alboher, author of The Encore Career Handbook and upcoming LinkedIn Learning instructor. “Re-skilling throughout your career will position you to ensure you’re finding meaning in your work, growing in your profession and making an impact along the way.”

Here are three tips for kick-starting your learning efforts.

Find the Time

The top career goal for professionals in 2018 is to learn a new skill, but not everyone knows where to fit learning into their daily lives. Here’s a tip: In today’s ever-connected digital world, we’re living in the era of bite-sized learning, where new skills can be honed in minutes.

Start by picking 5 to 10-minute windows in your daily routine to dedicate to learning. Skim through courses while your eating breakfast or waiting to pick the kids up from school, and make a wish list of courses to view throughout the week.

Prioritize them by how much time each requires, from smallest to greatest; watch the five-minute videos or read the easily digestible articles first then schedule time for courses and reading that require greater focus.

Make it a Habit

They say a habit is formed in 21 days. Whenever you put learning into your daily schedule, try to pick a time when you can make it routine; whether it’s on the bus during your morning commute, or in the 10 minutes after you brush your teeth at night. You’ll be growing in your skills before you know it. Fun fact: LinkedIn Learning also sets a reminder for you, so it’s one less thing you have to remember in your day.

Pick Your Skills

Whether you want to advance your existing career or begin a new one, start by identifying a few broad and focused skills you’d like to hone. For example, people in every job can benefit from learning soft skills (ones that allow you to interact effectively with others) such as communication and critical thinking. Choose your focused skills based on your industry — would learning SEO, social media strategies or project management tools improve your performance and add value to your specific career? If so, go for it!

Commitment to being a lifelong learner is vital to keeping your passion for your work alive. In any industry, in any phase of life, there are always new skills to be gained, and new knowledge to explore.

Greater Kalamazoo MAGAZINE | EXPO

September 2018

39

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.

Support life-changing friendships between local children and caring, dedicated mentors by becoming a Match Maker. As a monthly sustainer you help children increase their self-esteem and better their grades.

Join us at MatchMakersMI.org 40

September 2018

Sept 1 Kalamazoo Food Truck Rally Water Street. 9 – 11:45 pm. Responding to a need to address late night “bar hoppers,” turning Water Street into an “After Hours Live Food Truck Corral,”. Tailored after successful food truck rallies in the United States, the Kalamazoo Food Truck Rally includes food trucks, artisans, booths, music, and networking. The event is designed as a pop-up event where people come and go as they celebrate downtown’s entertainment hot spots. 269-3882830. www.experientiallearningcenter.org/ food-truck-rally September 2 Concert at the Klines Klines Resort, 5 miles south of Vicksburg off Silver St. 6:30 pm. Concert with the Allen Family, a full-time gospel group. Concerts are outdoors you need to bring lawn chairs and an ice cream social afterwards for fellowship. A love offering will be taken. 269-649-3414.

audition. Those auditioning will be asked to sing a song (accompanist provided), to sing scales to determine vocal range, and to perform a basic sight-reading test. To apply for audition: kalamazoosingers.org. 269569-3189. kalamazoosingers@gmail.com September 8 Integrative Breathwork Workshop Unwindings, 5466 Holiday Terrace, Kalamazoo 9/8: 2 pm - 5 pm. A musical meditation for insight, emotional healing, creativity & renewal. $40. Pre-registration is required. 269388-2988. www.AdamczAssociates.com.

September 10 Pop-Up Health Fair 1300 W. Centre Ave. 10 am – 1:30 pm. A FREE event with FREE parking. Over 25 local businesses will be available. Flu Shots, Hearing and Blood Pressure Clinics. Contact SMG Health for more information 269-903-2510.

September 11 9/11 Ceremony September 4 Bronson Park. 5:30 – 6:30 pm. Please come Tibetan Buddhist Meditation/Study Group Jewel Heart. 7 – 8:30 pm. Explore in a practical and join us for our 14th annual 9/11 ceremony in Bronson Park Bandshelter. Special way the techniques associated with Tibetan Buddhism including concentration, mindfulness, guests speakers and music. Plenty of seating available. Free. 269-760-3595. analysis and visualization. 269-944-1575.

September 12 September 6 2018 SCORE Entrepreneurship Day Photography 101 Workshop WMU Fetzer Center. 8 am – 6 pm. Fee Curate + Co. 6 – 8 pm. Learn the basics of covers breakfast, lunch, workshop sessions taking a great photograph, whether you’re and materials, and parking. Cost: $65 early using a cell-phone or digital camera, at this hands-on workshop. You’ll spend the first half advance registration (before 8/31). $85 regular registration 9/1-event. Register: conof the workshop discussing the components for getting a great shot, followed by a mini field ta.cc/2No7JF7 trip to Bronson Park to practice what you’ve September 14 learned. 269-903-2985. curateandcompany.

Champions of Magic com Kalamazoo State Theatre. 7:30 – 9:30 pm.

The 5 world-class illusionists that make September 6 - 9 up the Champions of Magic have over 20 South Haven Tractor Cruise million online views between them. This Michigan Flywheelers Museum. Parade cast of top magicians includes international Thurs. 4 pm. The cruise is one of many award winners presenting daring grand activities that takes place during the four-day illusions, stunning close-up magic and show. Along with hundreds of antique farm incredible mind reading. $34.50 - $52.50. machinery, there is entertainment, a flea market, tractor pulls, kid’s activities and more. www.kazoostate.com/ Admission is $7 per person with children 12 September 15 and under free. Thursday is Senior Citizen Friends of the Kalamazoo Public Library Day $3. 269-639-1020. www.michiganflyBag of Books Sale wheelers.org Kalamazoo Public Library, Van Deusen Room. 9 a.m. until 3:30 p.m. Fill a bag with September 7 books for only $3 or pay 20c per book. Your Food Truck Rally bag or ours. Cash or check only. Proceeds Water Street, between Church and Rose benefit the Kalamazoo Public Library. 269Street. 9 pm – midnight. The following Food 553-7800.

Trucks will be attending: Great Scott Ice Cream, Pachamama Street Food, Gorilla Gourmet, Specialty Cheesecake and Dessert September 15 Broadway…the BARBERSHOP Way Company, Smoked Down BBQ, Urban Eats, Dalton Center Recital Hall. 7 – 9:30 pm. Each Nick’s Gyros, Singh Cruisin Cuisine, Rollin year in mid-September, Kalamazoo’s iconic Gelato, Freddy’s Food Hut, Babaturk, PJW Creole Cuisine. Free. 269-388-2830.facebook. 77-year-old Barbershop Chorus, the Mall City com/KalamazooFoodTruckRally/ | foodtruck- Harmonizers, presents its annual Show. This year’s show, “Broadway, the BARBERSHOP rallykz.com Way” focuses on some of the greatest, most September 7 – 9 memorable songs from Broadway musicals 39th Annual NSRA Street Rod Nationals over the past half-century. (269) 387-2458 North Kalamazoo County Expo Center. 8 am – 5 pm September 15 Kalamazoo’s Vintage Mini Market Fri. & Sat; 8 am – 1 pm Sun. See more than Kalamazoo County Expo Center - EXPO 2600 street rods, muscle cars, custom and specialty vehicles all thirty years old and older. NORTH. 9 am – 3 pm. Kalamazoo’s Vintage Mini Market. Free. lorie.money123@gmail.com Plus, manufacturer exhibits, arts & crafts, vintage parts, swap meet, live entertainment, good food and a whole lot more! Produced by September 15 Fall Craft Show the National Street Rod Association. Adults Kalamazoo County Expo Center - EXPO $17, Children ages 6-12 $6, Children 5 & under are free. $3 Parking. www.nsra-usa.com SOUTH. 9 am – 3 pm. Free. Lorie.money123@gmail.com September 8 September 15 Auditions: The Kalamazoo Singers Mom to Mom Sale First Presbyterian Church of Kalamazoo. 10 am – 12 pm. The Kalamazoo Singers is hold- Kalamazoo County Expo Center- MAIN ing auditions for this quality vocal ensemble’s EXPO ROOM. 8 am – 9 am $5. 9 am – 1 pm $2. lorie.money123@gmail.com 42nd season. All voice parts are welcome to

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September 16 Historic Home Open House & Tours 927 N Drake Rd. 1 – 4 pm. In celebration of our 14th year of preservation of the historic Benjamin Drake Farmstead, join us for an afternoon of music, crafts, sales, tours and games. Experience history and view the restoration progress of the 1880s home of the first landowner in Oshtemo Township. Family friendly and free. oshtemohs@gmail.com www. oshtemohistoricalsociety.org September 21st Ladies Night Out Milwood United Methodist Church. 5:308:00 pm. Join us to shop with over 25 different vendors, bid on silent auction items, and enjoy some tasty treats. Tickets are $5. For questions, call 381-6720.

September 21 Morris Day and The Time Kalamazoo State Theatre. 7 – 10:30 pm. Morris Day and The Time, a vibrant funk band that has been thrilling audiences since the early 1980’s. Formed in Minneapolis in 1981, the Time was the brainchild of Prince, who put the group together as an outlet for his funkier leaning. $35 - $100. www.kazoostate.com/ September 21 – 22 The Papercrafting Roadshow Kalamazoo County Expo Center, Expo South. 9 am – 4 pm. An annual event featuring vendors that specialize in scrapbooking and stamping. Crops will also be hosted from 9am-9pm on Friday & Saturday. Visit the website for crop pricing and registration. $5. 231-2062980. thepapercraftingroadshow@ gmail.com www.thepapercraftingroadshow.com | www.facebook.com/thepapercraftingroadshow

September 22 Kalamazoo Heart Walk Spring Valley Park. The gates open at 8:00 a.m. with the Opening Ceremony at 9:00 and the walk at 9:25. The American Heart Association is taking over for the annual Kalamazoo Heart Walk. The fun walk is your choice of either 1 or 3 miles. This is a family and pet friendly event.

Local companies and individuals can form Heart Walk teams now at www2.heart.org/site/TR/ HeartWalk/MWA-MidWestAffiliate?pg=entry&fr_id=3578. For local sponsorship opportunities and volunteer opportunities, contact Kimberly Earnshaw at kimberly.earnshaw@heart.org.

September 22 Point1K Kalamazoo Mall. 10 am – 1 pm. 6th Annual Point1K Spoof Run: Maximum Impact. Minimal Effort. Twelve-second first-place finishers, six-inch platform running shoes, 328 feet of an all-flat running course – this is the Point 1K spoof Run! Participants will enjoy retailer discounts, food and drink deals, costume contests, live music, a free kids fun run and an array of fun activities throughout the mall. $25. www.point1k.com September 22 CND North Country National Scenic Trail Day Hike Kellogg Bird Sanctuary. 9:30 am – 1:30 pm. Join us for a national celebration of the North Country Trail. The Chief Noonday Chapter of the North Country Trail Association is offering two, free guided hikes, one 4 miles and another 10 miles long. 269-808-7334. jane_a_norton@ yahoo.com. www.northcountrytrail.org/cnd/ index.htm.

September 23 Michigan Heroes in Recovery 6K 8 – 10 am. The Michigan Heroes race is a unique 6K run/walk. Heroes in Recovery has

a simple mission: to eliminate the social stigma that keeps individuals with addiction and mental health issues from seeking help, to share stories of recovery for encouragement and inspiration and to create an engaged sober community that empowers people to get involved, give back and live healthy, active lives. It takes a heroic effort to live clean and sober each day, and a Heroes 6K celebrates that effort. heroesinrecovery.com/heroes6k/michigan-6k-race/ September 23 Jo Koy Kalamazoo State Theatre. 6 – 8:30 pm. The hilarious and talented stand-up sensation, Jo Koy is taking the stage! The comedian pulls inspiration from his family, specifically his son, that inspires humor across all boundaries. This is an event recommended for mature audience ages 12 and over. $38 - $113. www.kazoostate.com/ September 28 & September 29 Integrative Breathwork Workshops Lord of Life Church, 9420 Portage Rd., Portage 9/28: 7 pm - 9 pm, 9/29: 10 am - 5 pm. A musical meditation for insight, emotional healing, creativity & renewal. $30/ Friday or $75/Saturday. Pre-registration is required. 269-388-2988. www.AdamczAssociates.com.

September 29 Kazoo Books 30th Anniversary Party Kazoo Books II. 9 am – 6 pm. Kazoo Books opened on Labor Day weekend in 1988 as The Book Exchange. We have a lot of love for the people who’ve made it through our doors & have received a lot back in return.

Come celebrate our 30th Anniversary with us! We’re offering sale prices, swag, and plenty of treats. Free. (269) 553-6506

September 29 Taste of Jazz Kalamazoo Institute of Arts. 8 – 11 pm. Join the Society for History and Racial Equity (SHARE) at its annual fundraiser. A live auction featuring a variety of goods and services will also be part of the activities for this elegant evening in Kalamazoo.

Catering will be provided by the popular catering service. Fine wines will be served. $50, advance purchase; $60 at the door; $25 for students. 269-3819775. sharetasteofjazz2018.eventbrite.com September 29 Gryphon Place 5th Annual Suicide Prevention Walk Bronson Park. 9 am kickoff. Want to learn more, volunteer, donate, or register to walk? gryphon.org/events September 29 Geek Fest Kalamazoo County Expo Center, Expo South. 11 am – 4 pm. Geek Fest is southwest Michigan’s free, all-ages pop culture event featuring gaming, cosplay, crafts, robotic, artists, authors, and much more! Admission is free. For more information contact Stewart Fritz at 269-5537871 or stewartf@kpl.gov. www.facebook. com/SWMGeekFest October 4 Motors & Music The Kalamazoo Sypmphony Orchestra League is holding its annual “fun raiser” at the Gilmore Car Museum in Hickory Corners. 5 - 9 pm Reserve your tickets today. $100 pp - all proceeds go to the KSO. More info - call Mary 269-377-5047.

kalamazoo symphony orchestra league presents

KALAMAZOO BACH FESTIVAL ur o Y Sing tOut !

Hear

SEASON 72 2 01 8 - 2 0 1 9

ORDER TICKETS KalamazooBachFestival.org (269) 337-7407 SEASON NO. 72 3rd ANNUAL BACHTOBERFEST - Sept 29 7 pm COLE PORTER RADIO HOUR - Oct 28 4 pm HOLIDAYS WITH BACHFEST - Dec 2 4 pm LOVE IS LOVE IS LOVE IS - Feb 13 7 pm GUEST ARTISTS IN CONCERT- Apr 26 7:30 pm CARMINA BURANA - Apr 28 4 pm

2019 BACH FESTIVAL WEEK IS APRIL 24 - MAY 6!

Greater Kalamazoo MAGAZINE | EXPO

Motors & Music at the

2018

Oct. 4th 5–9pm

ksoleague.com

Join us for an evening of food, music and a short auction all while touring North America’s largest collection of vintage automobiles. $100 per person Reservations can be made online at: ksoleague.com or eventbrite.com or complete the enclosed information card

6865 hickory road hickory corners , mi

Email Mary with any questions: mlicavoli@jaquarealtors.com

Catered by: Seasonal Grill Music & Dancing: After Hours Trio Thank you for your support of our Kalamazoo Symphony Orchestra and it’s educational programs.

September 2018

41

READER’S

Suggestions brought to you by Gloria Tiller, owner of Kazoo Books. Kazoo Books features used and new titles.

The staff is experienced & can help you with suggestions. Come visit them at 2413 Parkview. There is plenty of parking in the back.

A couple of Kazoo Books’ favorite choices from this list include: 1984 by George Orwell is certainly a classic dystopia, and we even use the word “Orwellian” to describe the kind of constant observation on citizens that the novel’s Big Brother did. Even though the year 1984 has come and gone, the novel, written in 1949, is still relevant, especially the government’s use of propaganda and language.

The Great American Read continues all summer, asking readers to choose our country’s favorite book (or series). Sponsored

by PBS, the eight episodes present authors, celebrities, and notable Americans sharing their favorite books.

Readers can vote online and on social media for their own favorite from a list of 100 books, classics and best-sellers, selected in a national poll. Only one book by any author was allowed, and whole series like Harry Potter and Lord of the Rings were included as single choices. America’s favorite book will be announced on the television finale on PBS in October.

Whether it’s the times we’re living in, or maybe just because it’s a popular genre, a lot of dystopian novels made the list of 100.

Dystopian fiction usually shows us a world we recognize, but that has gone wrong, and whether because of ecological disaster or political or social upheaval, it’s usually our own fault. Many don’t have happy endings, but serve as cautionary tales so that we may avoid such futures.

You can see the complete list of 100 books and vote for your favorite at www. pbs.org/the-great-american-read/vote/#

42

September 2018

Recently adapted for television by HBO, Margaret Atwood’s terrifying THE HANDMAID’S TALE is set in the near future, in what was the United States, but is now called the Republic of Gilead. The church state reacts to social unrest and a declining birthrate by returning to, and surpassing, oppressive Puritanical values. Offred is one of the handmaids, valued only for her servitude and breeding, but she remembers her life before with her husband and daughter, when she was allowed to work and play and read.

Suzanne Collins’ THE HUNGER GAMES ushered in a wave of dystopian Young Adult series in both bookstores and movie theaters. In this near future, the country, now called Parem, is divided into districts, each of which annually sends a young person chosen by lottery to fight to the death

on live television. In the first book of the series, sixteen-year-old Katniss Everdeen takes the place of her younger sister as this year’s Tribute from District 13 and heads to the capital to win the Hunger Games and perhaps change the rules for everyone. The other books in the trilogy are Catching Fire and Mockingjay.

WomensLifeStyleKazoo.com

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

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

BARTER IS SMARTER (269) 344-8800

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

mbebarter.com

Your event has to be spectacular...

Let us show you how.

(269) 324-0999 UnitedRental.biz

ForensicFluids.com (269) 492-7700

www.Libins.com (269) 381-0746

www.pestprosmi.com www.leesadventuresports.com 311 W. Kilgore, Portage (269) 993-0051

LawtonRidgeWinery.com (269) 372-9463

www.theAmplePantry.com 269-375-8300

Kalamazoo (2 Locations) & Portage

www.Hardings.com (269) 685-5883

Chocola-Tea.com 7642 S. Westnedge, Portage

www.mattawanmechanical.com (269) 668-5415

www.WMUK.org 102.1 FM

Sawall Health Foods sawallhf.com

Kazoo Books kazoobooks.com

www.looksharponline.com 269-657-5646

Comensolis.com (269) 345-6755

Midwest Business Exchange (269) 344-8800

Ad Shop, Etc. (269) 207-0103

www.printmill.com (269) 382-0428

Kalamazoo Wings Kwings.com

theAmplePantry.com (269) 375-8300

12000 N US 131 Hwy, Schoolcraft

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

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

www.boatyardbrewing.com (269) 226-0300 jack@UnitedRental.biz (269) 324-0999

Kwings.com

theBetterWorldBuilders.com (269) 383-7862

RomenceGardensonline.com 9660 Shaver Rd. Portage

fb.com/DiscoveryShopKalamazoo (269) 345-0661

V & A Bootery vabootery.com

WomensLifeStyleKazoo.com (269) 569-1647

www.douglasandson.com 269-344-2860

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