Moxie Magazine - October 2020

OCTOBER 2020 • FREE

SHE MEANS BUSINESS WHAT DOES ‘THINK PINK’ MEAN TO YOU? FEMALE VOICES FOR KALAMAZOO

THE

Influencer EDITION Fresh * Fun * Fabulous moxiemagazine.net

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October 2020

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We Now Offer Telemedicine!

The following services are available via Telemedicine: • Discussion of birth control options: different types, side effects, benefits, what’s best for you

• Medication follow up or new requests

• Preconception or pre-pregnancy consultation for couples intending to start trying in the near future

• Decreased libido (sex drive)

• Menopause: what it means, what to expect, what you can do, what you should do • Peri-menopause: what to expect, how to manage it, what women should be doing • Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome: what it is, why people develop PCOS, how to best manage it if you’re planning a pregnancy, what to do to prevent other complications of PCOS • Some post ops – physician will tell us or patient if Telehealth is appropriate

• Painful sex • UTI • Vaginitis • Painful or irregular periods • Review of abnormal lab results and imaging studies • Anxiety or concerns around the current Corona virus pandemic to get most recent updates from our office • Post-Partum follow-ups

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

MacKenzie L. Arnold, WHNP-BC Patricia R. Zull, CNM, FNP-BC

October 2020

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FROM THE PUBLISHER

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O

ctober has announced her arrival with shorter days, colder nights, and all of the wonderful things that make fall in southwest Michigan unforgettable.

It is no secret that like the rest of 2020, this October will look a little different from years past, but we are determined to make this October one of the most amazing months of this year. So, grab a hot cup of coffee and take a little time to enjoy this edition of Moxie Magazine, which is dedicated to the Power of Pink!

As I sat down to write my monthly greeting to all of you, I learned of the death of the incomparable, incredible, “The Notorious” (she loved that nickname) Justice Ruth Bader Ginsberg. A fearless advocate for women’s rights, Justice

Ginsberg was an example of how to disagree without being disagreeable. Her contributions to our legal system and her advancement of our gender will never be forgotten. A fitting tribute to Justice Ginsberg is to make sure your voice is heard this November. Many women have fought courageous, frightening, and often violent situations to ensure that women have the right to vote, so regardless of your party affiliation, exercise that right and make sure your voice is heard on November 3rd.

southwest Michigan’s best and brightest businesswomen in our annual She Means Business profiles. Celebrate 100 years of women’s right to vote and meet nine local women running for office in November.

We are also proud to highlight several groups of strong and courageous breast cancer survivors.

I hope that October brings big smiles, fun adventures, and precious memories for you and your family. As we continue to navigate these challenging times, stay strong, stay safe, and remember that this too will pass.

I am so excited about this edition of Moxie Magazine. Let’s be honest, I’m excited about most editions of Moxie, but this edition is something special. We are proud to introduce you to some of

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CELEBRATING YEAR ANNIVERSARY

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contents

VOTE: 100 YEARS OF RIGHT TO VOTE 8 WOMEN’S

LIFE 6 | She’s Got Moxie! 20 Things You Didn’t Know About Kim Carson 8 | VOTE: 100 Years of Women’s Right to Vote 10 | Vandenberg Furniture: When Quality Continues for 83 Years 12 | What Does Think Pink Mean To You? 16 | The 2020 Female Voices for Kalamazoo 21 | A Story of Chasing Crazy 22 | Defining & Setting Boundaries 38 | Oh, the New Favorite Places You Can Find

SHE MEANS

BUSINESS

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OF FALL 41 FLAVORS

HEALTH & FITNESS 14 | The Link Between Physical Activity, Pain, and Mental Health 36 | Mental Health After the Pandemic

FOOD & DRINK 40 | Restaurant Review: South Haven Brewpub 41 | Recipes: Flavors of Fall

- Cheesy Potato Casserole

- Apple Butter Pork Chops

- Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts

- Sweet Potato Dumplings

HEALTH AFTER 36 MTHEENTAL PANDEMIC

THE PEOPLE WHO MAKE IT HAPPEN PUBLISHER: Heather Dombos hdombos@moxiemediagroup.net LAYOUT & DESIGN: Alicia Pauwels apauwels@moxiemediagroup.net EDITOR: Lalita Chemello lchemello@moxiemediagroup.net

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

THIS PUBLICATION PROUDLY SUPPORTS

Elizabeth Precopio Hannah Reuter WEBSITES: moxiemagazine.net moxiemediagroup.net moxiemastermind.net kzoofamilyexpo.com FOR SALES INFO: 269-350-5227

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

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

October 2020

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20 Things You Didn’t Know About

{ S H E ’ S G OT

Meet Moxie writer, THE Kim Carson from WVFM

Kim Carson

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Kim Carson Mornings 5 -10 a.m.

The Kim Carson Show on FM106.5 Kalamazoo Lively Arts on PBS/WGVU

I’m a Motown Girl and proud of it. It made me who I am today.

I adore my 92-years young mom!

My 95-year-old dad passed away in 2019. They were married 74 years.

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I LOVE Thai food, especially Gang Pa. Make it HOT!

Singing on stage with Cyndi Lauper & Rick Derringer (Rock & Roll Hoochie Coo) is something I’ll never forget.

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October 2020

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I attended Denby High School year-round for two years so I could graduate at 16 and move to Knoxville, Tenn., and become a radio DJ on WKVQ.

6 I have been called a “Crazy Cat Lady” and they say it like it’s a bad thing.

moxiemagazine.net

I was on a really big billboard! Oh yeah, it was because I had colon cancer. June 25th, 2009: Before my surgery Michael Jackson & Farrah Fawcett were alive. When I woke up from surgery they had both died.

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My song, “Smooth as Silk,” won an honorable mention at the Music City Songwriters Competition in Nashville, Tenn.

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For the first 10 years of my radio career, I was the first female hired and given her own full-time on-air shift. I never realized I was breaking glass ceilings, but I still have shards of glass in my head to prove it.

Proud moment: Winning the Celebrity Grand Prix in Detroit.

Bob Bondurant offered me his business card and told me he thought I had a future in car racing should I wish to pursue it (he trained Tom Cruise and Steve McQueen).

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I did stand up for 10 minutes at Gilda’s Club for LaughFest. It was the longest 10 minutes of my life.

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I made the Radio & Records list of Top 10 AC Female Program Directors in America.

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I have written a book and a book has been written about me.

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Flowers make me happy: Stock, protea, Queen Anne’s lace, lisianthus (a poor man’s rose). Buying flowers at the Farmers Market makes me happy too.

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Certified PADI scuba diver. On my bucket list: Dive the Red Sea in Israel.

I collect religious calling cards from the 1800s-1900s.

They were given as “encouragement” cards.

14 In 2012, I lost 115 pounds.

The goal wasn’t a size, a number, or a look, the goal was to get healthier and lose the pain.

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I met Ofer MizraChi, an Israeli artist, at Art Prize in Grand Rapids, Mich. He invited me to visit/stay with him in Israel and he would show me his country. Two months later I was there! I stayed for two weeks. Israel felt like home to me ... it was life changing.

I have been a “fospice” mom to Auntie Em & Isadora from Al-Van Humane Society. Fospice is when a terminal animal leaves the shelter to die in a peace-filled quiet home.

20 I was a cover girl once for Women’s Lifestyle Magazine in Grand Rapids, Mich. when they spotlighted my 1950’s house.

October 2020

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100 Years

OF WOMEN’S RIGHT TOVOTE Mott. Stanton. Truth.

Anthony. Paul.

Millholland. Shaw.

Blatch. Rankin. Catt.

These names belong to ladies with some serious moxie—they are the last names of the women who led the charges of thousands & participated in 72 years worth of work for women rights, and of course, the right to vote.

They are: Lucretia Mott. Elizabeth Cady Stanton. Sojourner Truth. Susan B. Anthony. Alice Paul. Inez Millholland.

Anna Howard Shaw. Harriet Stanton Blatch. Jeannette Pickering Rankin. Carrie Chapman Catt.

They were mothers of abolition, great women’s advocates and activists of their time. They may not have burned bras, but they marched across the country, enduring arrests, abuse, blatant discrimination, protests, and donated all of their precious time, to make it happen.

Mott and Stanton were the leading ladies, holding the first convention of this movement in 1848 in Seneca Falls, New York, where they would draft the Declaration of Sentiments, calling for multiple resolutions for women’s rights, including the right to simply be recognized as a person rather than a property, rights to her wages earned outside of the home, the right and ability to be educated, and of course, the right to vote. And with success, many of those liberties were granted, aside from the right to vote.

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Mott (d. 1880) and Cady (d. 1902) would not live to see or enjoy the fruition of their work in gaining the right to vote, but the ladies above, even as some died later on, would participate and be hugely consequential in gaining grounds on women’s right to vote.

Their fight gained us many things we take for granted today, including our education, and our paychecks, let alone our voting rights.

It would result in the ratification of the 19th Amendment introduced in 1919, and the right to vote in 1920.

So, here we are celebrating 100 years of that beautiful right. A right that was certainly fought long and hard for, and we owe it to these ladies, ourselves, and especially our country to take part next month.

Think about this: According to the Pew Research Center, in 2016, only 63% of women who had the ability to vote, actually casted their vote, leaving 37% of the female population unaccounted for. And yes, one does need to consider the many factors that also play into those numbers. However, some of us just didn’t vote. And here, the objective is to encourage you to vote if you haven’t or were not planning on it. We need to do our part to make sure if you are part of that 37%, you use your ballot this year.

HOW TO GET STARTED? Visit the Michigan Voter Information Center online.

Not yet registered to vote?

You can register there.

Already registered? Find out where you can vote, what to expect & for whom you can vote.

Want to know who you are voting for? Click on “What’s on the ballot?” and from there you can enter in your information to find out what to expect on your election ticket. Names sometimes have links of which you can find your official’s page and read up on what they are all about. Unfortunately, not all names will/can have links, but you can Google them fairly quickly.

Did you request an absentee ballot? Look up everyone on your ballot while you fill in your bubbles! I did it for the August election, and I’ll do it for November as well.

For more information, watch and read local news profiles on candidates prior to the election. In addition, we here at Moxie Magazine are including a few female candidate profiles in this month’s issue. We’re all doing our part to keep you informed, because there is only one thing worse than not voting at all, and that is voting uninformed.

Lucretia, Elizabeth, Susan, and the rest of the women’s movement leaders didn’t fight so that we could sit back and just let things happen. We don’t need to be activists or abolitionists to have a say in what goes on with our lives. There may be other causes on the frontier to fight that voting will not be the only means for change. But voting is one simple thing you can do to help our fight. You have a voice. You are encouraged to use it.

Lalita Chemello is a Detroit-born writer now living in west Michigan.

She’s written/edited for New Roads lifestyle magazine and Panorama.

Her other passions are photography, motorsports & screenwriting. You can also occasionally find her around town on her vintage two wheels.

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WHEN QUALITY CONTINUES FOR 12000 N US Highway 131 Schoolcraft, MI 49087-9494 www.vandenbergfurniture.com

V

andenberg Furniture has been an installation in the West Michigan area since 1937, opening first on Portage Rd. in the heart of the Washington Square neighborhood in Kalamazoo, and eventually moving to its current location on the north end of Schoolcraft. Brothers Anthony and Dewey VanDenBerg opened Vandenberg Furniture with the idea, featured in the opening line of The Kalamazoo Gazette article, “The store will specialize in living room suites, occasional tables and chairs, radios, electric lamps, pictures, bedding, and general home furnishings.” And 83 years later, this still holds true, aside from the radios. You’ll be hard-pressed to find one there.

And perhaps sans the radio, Vandenberg Furntiure has been a long fixture in the community, representing a type of store and structure nearly bygone in our current era: Family-owned while specializing in an item more heavily commercialized than when they first opened their doors, and continuing as well as emphasizing a more customized and genuine customer service. It is personalized and quaint (although the showroom is sizable), compared to the furniture stores of the modern day, with a focus to provide their customers with the best buying experience while also providing furniture that meets their needs and expectations. It is something current owner, Cal Vandenberg (Anthony’s son), aimed to continue in the inheriting of the store in 1972.

Having your father hand you the reins of a store already quite established and reputable doesn’t come without some pressure. But Cal, felt confident he could fill the already mighty shoes his father left behind. That he could, in his words, “… continue the quality of service and product that people had grown to expect from Vandenberg Furniture while also realizing the weight of carrying on the legacy my father built. It is important to me that our customers feel that we care about their needs, and that they can depend on us to be there for them after the sale. That’s still important to me today.”

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October 2020

83 Years

BY LALITA CHEMELLO

The service after the sale …it is something Cal really emphasizes with the service his team provides for their customers. And if you’re purchasing from Vandenberg Furniture, you’re purchasing quality—some of the best brands, many that are made in the U.S.A. like Best, Flexsteel, Marshfield, Vaughan Basset and many Amish brands as well. They even carry the Michigan-made Restonic Mattresses.

And Cal carries his father’s philosophy today - if you’re purchasing some of the best products, you better have the best after - sales service as well and nothing less.

With a store 83 years strong, and Cal having carried it through 48 of those years, it’s easy to say he has filled his father’s shoes, as well as carried them further. It’s not an easy feat to keep a family-owned business going in an industry taking a new direction from what father Anthony had in mind when opening it years ago. But Cal defies the expectations, not only in keeping the store going, but of course the service in his store.

His secret?

There is none. He credits his team: A sales staff with experience that truly understands what their customers are looking for, coupled with a management team that knows and has been capable of keeping Vandenberg Furniture successful and running, even in today’s climate.

Cal also credits his wonderful wife for standing beside him through the years of business, as well as serving as the “voice” of their TV commercials.”

If you stop into the store this month during their 83rd anniversary, you might get a chance to say hello to the man behind the name and the store these last few decades.

Or you might run into him in South Haven as he sails along the shores of Lake Michigan, where he says he’s enjoying the best of what West Michigan has to offer, similar to what he offers in his store.

Vandenberg Furniture – serving the area since 1937. Located at 12000 N US 131, just north of Schoolcraft. This month they are celebrating with specials throughout the store!

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W H AT D O E S

Think Pink

MEAN TO YOU

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. These four women share their remarkable stories of the discovery of their cancer, the unexpected devastating impact it had on their lives, and how they came through on the other side.

BY KIM CARSON

MEET LASHAUDRA COX. She’s 36,

an educator, and a mom. In March of this year, she noticed a round mass under her left breast, or what she thought was a cyst. At the mammography and ultrasound appointment her doctor told her the discovered round mass was a cyst, but underneath was a suspicious shady area. A biopsy was performed and two days later LaShaudra received a call that changed her life forever.

Ms. Cox, your biopsy results came back positive for cancerous cells you have Stage 1A Invasive Ductal Carcinoma breast cancer.

Tears fell from her eyes and she sobbed as with the news. She asked, “How could I have cancer? No one in my family has had cancer. I have an 11-year-old, and I don’t want to die.”

LaShaudra’s faith in God has always kept her sane especially in times of need. And so, she prayed like never before, asking God to give her strength. She immediately felt a calm and a peace come over her.

Due to COVID-19 restrictions and practices, LaShaudra could not have family with her. She would have to endure radiation and recovery alone. But in her treatment, she learned that she is an overcomer and has a purpose on this Earth. “I am here to encourage others”, she said. “When this first happened, I said 2020 was my worst year, but it’s been my blessing year.”

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MAUREEN DOLAN IS A MOTHER, WITH A MOTHER WHO ALSO HAD BREAST CANCER.

Maureen was diligent in getting her annual mammograms, especially after her mom was diagnosed with breast cancer back in 2008. August 2018 for Maureen was like any other year. She had dense breasts, so a 3D mammogram wasn’t unusual. This time was different.

The radiologist found a suspicious spot that would require a biopsy. The following week it was confirmed the tumor was breast cancer.

Further genetic testing revealed a cancer gene mutation called ATM (Ataxia-Telangiectasia Mutation).

“My husband and I decided that because of my history and the gene mutation, a double mastectomy was the wisest choice. I kept a private blog that I shared with my close friends and family. The nurse that gave me the news about my cancer diagnosis said this was ‘just a little blip in the road,’ and the title for my blog was born. Humor was my medication. I learned through this journey that I am much stronger than I thought I was, and I am currently two years cancer-free. Surrounding myself with people close to me who had gone through this was my most helpful part of healing. We can’t do this alone!”

FOR STEPHANIE CORNWELL IT STARTED OUT AS A NORMAL SATURDAY.

While showering she noticed a rather large lump on her left breast. She wasn’t worried, but called her OBGYN with her discovery and was scheduled the next day for a mammogram.

At the time, Stephanie was in training for the 2016 Boston Marathon — less than a month away. Then, the call, where the nurse told her she had an aggressive Clinical Stage IIB Invasive Ductal Carcinoma, ER/PR-positive, HER2negative breast cancer.

The world stopped. The oncology team did give her the green light to run the marathon so she ran Boston on Monday, flew back on Tuesday and was in surgery for her port Wednesday.

Friends celebrated her Boston Marathon accomplishment and her hairdresser was there to shave her head and prepare 24 inches of her beautiful blonde hair for a wig.

It was important for Stephanie not to hide, but to live out loud. Post-cancer she ran a 50-mile trail marathon and in August of 2019 she ran the Grand Island Trail Run, 50k, in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. What a victory! She says, “I’ve learned that I am a warrior and with my experiences I am able to pay it forward.”

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“From the moment you get that call, your world just starts swirling around you like a hurricane,” Becky said. She never thought she would have to face her own mortality at age 45, and to add, her youngest was only four years old.

2017: BECKY RICHARD WAS 45 WHEN A CLIENT OF HERS, DIAGNOSED WITH BREAST CANCER AT AGE 40, SAVED HER LIFE. “When was your last mammogram?,” Becky’s client asked. Becky would tell her the doctor had informed her she could wait until 50. Her client then strongly insisted she absolutely not wait. At 45, she needed to get a mammogram as soon as possible.

Becky took her client’s advice and scheduled a mammogram immediately, in turn saving her life. A few weeks later she would be diagnosed with an aggressive breast cancer.

The recommended treatment was a double mastectomy and 12 rounds of chemotherapy.

Becky participated in an ArtPrize exhibit featuring women going through cancer treatment who received a henna crown. She began volunteering for Henna Crowns of Courage and Beautiful You Salon, two nonprofits providing free services for women going through cancer treatments, helping them to feel beautiful.

“I try to submerge myself in the little things … the sun on my face, rolling my windows down in the car, smelling my son’s hair.”

Surprisingly, I’ve found that the little things are actually the big things in life. Cancer is like a sieve that ‘catches’ all the important things in life and the rest just falls away. It’s a gift that only suffering can bring us.”

Kim Carson is an Author/Radio/TV/ Internet personality living in Southwest Michigan. Listen to her 5-10am on FM106.5, watch her on WGVU TV and learn more at kimcarson.online.

Kim loves cats, calls her mom her best friend, enjoys hiking, farmers markets, photography and interviewing people because we all have a story to tell.

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THE LINK BE T WEEN

Physical Activity, Pain, A N D Mental Health There was a recent, beautiful late summer day in which I had decided to do a little yard work. For a few hours, there was lots of squatting & standing, digging and pulling. I knew by the end of my work I would pay the price later, and yet I continued. Of course, the next day I was sore, my back ached, and my fingers felt stiff and swollen.

Still, there is something about being outdoors, working in the yard or in the garden, or just going for a walk, that boosts my mood, even when I know I will be sore the next day.

Many of us who suffer from arthritis, fibromyalgia, or other chronic pain syndromes, wonder if we are actually doing more harm than good when it comes to moving. Often, our pain can flare up after intense exercise, forcing us to take the next few days or week to slow down and recover, which hardly seems worth it. Our significant others and friends may even try to tell us to take it easy, and not push ourselves too much, but as proven above, we sometimes (or often), don’t listen.

So, should I exercise if I have chronic pain?

The answer is a resounding YES! As difficult as it may seem to get moving when you are already feeling stiff & painful, inactivity is likely to worsen joint pain, increase stiffness, and decrease flexibility.

There is also good evidence that depression and anxiety are linked to physical pain. The same neurotransmitters used to regulate mood (serotonin and norepinephrine) are also used in pain pathways in the brain. If you have chronic pain, you are more likely to be depressed or anxious. One study showed that people with depression are three times more likely to develop chronic pain, while those

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with chronic pain, are 3-5 times more likely to develop psychiatric symptoms.

So, what’s the good news? Although lack of exercise can worsen our mental health and pain, regular exercise has the power to improve it! Exercise stimulates nerve cell growth in the hippocampus, the part of our brain that regulates mood. Often this region is smaller in those who are depressed. Exercise helps build it up, and therefore improves brain function, decreases pain, and helps with mood regulation. It doesn’t have to be intense aerobic exercise either; low-intensity exercise sustained over time is better.

TOP 5 REASONS EXERCISE IS KEY: Stability: Exercise strengthens the muscles

around your joints, making them more stable and help to take the pressure off the joints themselves.

Flexibility: Gentle stretching keeps muscles loose and less likely to cramp.

Improved sleep: A more active day helps us to feel more tired and sleep better at night.

Mental health boost: Aerobic exercise

is just as effective as antidepressants in many people, boosting our serotonin and norepinephrine naturally, and growing our hippocampus for better mood regulation.

Excuse to get outside: You can’t always exercise outdoors, but do it as often as you can. Even gardening has been found to have

mental health benefits! Japanese physicians are known to write prescriptions for outdoor therapy. They call it, “Forest Bathing.”

EASE INTO IT

Simply, too intense of a workout, too soon, can cause pain to flare up. The important thing to remember is to start out easy, and slowly increase the duration and intensity. Even if this means starting out with a five minute walk, three times a week. Doing gentle yoga, riding stationary bikes, and swimming are often easier on the joints, for example.

Sometimes we need medication for depression or anxiety, injections, or even surgery for pain, but these are not the only treatment options.

So how about it? How can you start exercising to feel better? Get the family involved, set goals together. A brief walk every day may be the best place to start boosting your mood, lessening your pain, and in the end “add years to your life and life to your years.”

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

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The 2020 Female Voices for Kalamazoo To ensure fair representation, candidates were placed in alphabetical order.

With less than a month to go until Election Day, Moxie took some time to highlight some of the many wonderful women running for office this election for our great Kalamazoo area. Now you can match a yard sign, sticker or campaign poster name to a face and get to know some of our hopeful representatives a little better.

MARY BALKEMA

BACKGROUND: I have an accounting degree from Western Michigan University, with 15 years of experience in banking and brokerage operations. I am well versed in the bond markets where the experience is valuable in managing the county’s $100 million dollar portfolio. I have been in the office since 2007 and have experience in all aspects of the treasury and especially the foreclosure process. I am the legislative co-chair for the Michigan Association of County Treasurers and have been chosen by my elected peers to help formulate tax policy for Michigan.

I have served on the board of Kalamazoo Neighborhood Housing Services, am currently the board chair for LISC and serve as the chair of the Kalamazoo County Land Bank Authority.

HOW/WHY DID YOU GET INTO POLITICS? I ran for

political office in 2001 for the position of

Kalamazoo City Commissioner. The State Senator at the time was Dale Shugars and he encouraged me to run and serve the residents of the city of Kalamazoo. It was a great experience and one that I am very proud of.

PLATFORM: My platform as County Treasurer

is to bring a voice of experience, balance, boldness and passion to the office. I will fight for veterans, seniors and families. I will continue strong leadership in foreclosure prevention. I will continue to have strong and steady financial management. Finally, I will continue my leadership and passion in revitalizing Kalamazoo County through blight removal and new housing opportunities.

GOALS IN OFFICE: Preventing foreclosure and

keeping families in their home is my number one priority. My goals for the next term will be to expand on foreclosure prevention programs, particularly to help seniors and veterans age in place. I will tirelessly champion the county

making necessary investments in technology because it is a critical component in our ability to service the public.

People are more and more reliant on technology to conduct their personal business electronically, and their county business is no different.

SOMEONE YOU LOOK UP TO/DRAW INSPIRATION FROM AND WHY? My mother. She was one of

10 children from an immigrant family and grew up on Park Street, on the northside of Kalamazoo. She went on to marry my father and raised six girls and one boy on a farm in Texas Township. She instilled in me a love for our community and a passion to serve others. She has a quiet and gentle spirit and is full of wisdom and grace.

RUNNING FOR: Kalamazoo County Treasurer POLITICAL PARTY: Republican

JOANNA CROES

precious homes and businesses. I plan to BACKGROUND: I studied chemical implement FMEA engineering, taking classes in biochemical (Failure Mode and engineering processes and environmental Effects Analysis) engineering before switching majors and techniques to identify schools. I had been attending Saint Mary’s risks in the county.

College (Notre Dame) and The University of PLATFORM: How our county’s storm water is managed has a large impact on the cleanliness Once our risks are Notre Dame before I transferred to Western of our lakes and rivers.

Our natural water identified we can start Michigan University, where I graduated is a foundation for our wellbeing AND the with a degree in industrial engineering to be more proactive instead of reactive in the health of our environment. My campaign is and minors of integrated supply chain office. This is an engineering tool that would for managing flooding to protect homes and management and mathematics. I also have be very useful in the office. preserve the environment by keeping our experience in many different industries, SOMEONE YOU LOOK UP TO/DRAW INSPIRATION water free of toxic chemicals and bacteria. including pharmaceuticals, automotive, FROM AND WHY? My mother is a fighter and I industrial process chillers, and aerospace GOALS IN OFFICE: I am very excited to hydraulic systems. draw inspiration from her quite often. She is bring cutting edge processes, negotiation smart as a whip and never gives up! Her and techniques, and new technology to the office.

HOW/WHY DID YOU GET INTO POLITICS? I have my father always encouraged my love for math always had an interest in politics and serving There is quite a bit of work to be done in and science. They raised me to see no barriers the office, one of the highest priorities being the public. I love to help people and felt in my ability to accomplish as a woman. managing flooding in order to save people’s this position was the perfect opportunity to utilize my technical background to better our community. I also really feel that politics need more people who genuinely have the best interest of the public at heart. I am sure it sounds incredibly cheesy, but I want to be that change.

RUNNING FOR: Kalamazoo County Drain Commissioner POLITICAL PARTY: Republican 16

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KESHIA DICKASON BACKGROUND:

I was a first-generation college student, receiving my bachelor’s degree in Business Management at Western Michigan University. I went on to study Health Care Administration, along with Higher Education. Today, I serve as the City of Oshtemo’s Planning Commissioner, chair my sorority’s Women’s Health and Wellness initiative, and serve as the Executive Director of Partners in Housing Transition. I am also an Ambassador for Black Girls RUN! foundation.

HOW/WHY DID YOU GET INTO POLITICS?

I have had a deep longing to make a change in the community for the greater good of the people. I know we are stronger together and making sure that we as a community work effectively together is the most important thing we can do as leaders.

GOALS IN OFFICE:

In addition to accomplishing unity & positive communication between all county board members as well as the community, my top three priorities in office: 1) Maintaining a healthy community. 2) Protecting our environment. 3) Ensuring responsible development.

SOMEONE YOU LOOK UP TO/DRAW INSPIRATION FROM AND WHY?

Dr. Von Washington Jr., who is a great leader and fights for quality education for our children here in Kalamazoo. Education is a huge passion of mine, and I look up to his boldness and his quality leadership. He has always supported me throughout my journey and helped motivate me to step out and run for office.

RUNNING FOR: Kalamazoo County Commissioner, District 9 POLITICAL PARTY: Democrat

BRONWYN HALTOM BACKGROUND:

I grew up in Oshtemo, and attended Kalamazoo Valley Community College before earning my degree from the University of Michigan. Following college, I worked to elect committed public servants in multiple states, where I met my husband. I returned home to Kalamazoo County, where my husband and I started our own small marketing and communications business.

HOW/WHY DID YOU GET INTO POLITICS?

When I was a child, I always had wanted to be a United States Secret Service agent. I joined the Kalamazoo Department of Public Safety’s Explorer Program, where I gained a strong appreciation of public service and a commitment to, and love for our community shared by those in uniform. In high school, I became more interested in policy and government. One of my teachers at KVCC in particular helped inspire my interest in public policy and I’m not sure I would have decided to run if not for his guidance. After returning home and starting a business here with my husband, I saw a need for new leadership in Lansing.

PLATFORM:

I believe in Michigan’s future, and I will work with anyone – regardless of party – to deliver for our community hand move Michigan forward with better jobs, stronger schools, and healthier families. My top priorities in Lansing will be working to ensure that in the midst of difficult budgeting decisions, Michigan invests in public schools and that every child has access to a quality education. As our economy continues to recover from the damage of COVID-19, it is also important that Michigan is open for business safely, with policies that encourage job creation and connect talent to meaningful career pathways. Protecting health coverage for those with pre-existing conditions and expanding healthcare choices for Michiganders is also a priority, as is increasing transparency and accountability in Lansing.

GOALS IN OFFICE: Our exceptional community deserves exceptional representation, and if elected I will strive to provide excellent and responsive constituent services to help families and businesses navigate

issues involving state government.

Legislative goals include working with Republicans and Democrats to address budget shortfalls and using my experience owning a small business to find ways to reduce wasteful spending and expand longterm investment in public education and infrastructure. Reducing the regulatory burden on businesses, and allowing our entrepreneurs and employers to adapt to a new environment with limited interference, will be important to a full recovery.

SOMEONE YOU LOOK UP TO/DRAW INSPIRATION FROM AND WHY?

Senator Margaret O’Brien epitomized dedicated, selfless public service - her passion for the Kalamazoo community is unmatched. Her service has inspired me and other women to put their name on the ballot and seek to improve their communities.

RUNNING FOR: State Representative, House District 61 POLITICAL PARTY: Republican October 2020

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VERONICA MCKISSACK

BACKGROUND: I am a first-time political

candidate, a wife of 18 years and have four children. I have a Bachelor’s of Science in Psychology and a Master’s of Science in Social Work. I am currently a Clinical Social Worker at the Kalamazoo Psychiatric Hospital, with over 13 years working in the field of public services including education, mental health, child welfare, and non-profit sectors within Kalamazoo County.

HOW/WHY DID YOU GET INTO POLITICS?

I have served on several boards and committees, including the Kalamazoo County Equity Taskforce, identifying challenges in which Kalamazoo County has the resources to address. What time better than now, would be appropriate for me to step up to assist with the

hard work of collaboration and implementation of actionable steps? Daily, I assist people in crisis, to stabilize and problem solve. Within the Kalamazoo County Commission, I will use my skills to move our county forward.

PLATFORM:

I’m standing for a transparent, equitable and inclusive Kalamazoo County.

GOALS IN OFFICE:

I will diversify decision making while promoting equity through policy. This includes advocating for the funding and implementation of a Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Officer within the County to eradicate racism and bias.

SOMEONE YOU LOOK UP TO/DRAW INSPIRATION FROM AND WHY?

I am inspired by Michelle Obama. She carries herself with humility and grace as she has persevered through systems of racism and sexism. She fosters an atmosphere of hope, rises above criticism and promotes an atmosphere of inclusivity. I carry myself with professionalism and am guided by a moral compass to treat all people with dignity and respect. I am a hard worker and have no political ambitions to distract me from the task of moving Kalamazoo County forward.

RUNNING FOR: Kalamazoo County Commissioner, District 5 POLITICAL PARTY: Democrat

STEPHANIE MOORE

BACKGROUND: Stephanie Moore has spent a lifetime serving the community of Kalamazoo in various capacities. Moore, affectionately known as the “People’s Commissioner,” is the first African American to serve as Chair of the Kalamazoo County Board of Commissioners.

She is a lifelong resident of Kalamazoo, graduate of Kalamazoo Public Schools (Continuing Education for Young Families) and Kalamazoo Valley Community College, mother of four and grandmother of seven.

HOW/WHY DID YOU GET INTO POLITICS? I have over 20 years of experience as a community organizer working on various issues. In 2006, my 18-year-old nephew was racially profiled, arrested and jailed by Kalamazoo Department of Public Safety. My family organized protests denouncing racial profiling. We quickly learned our voices were not being heard by local leaders and we felt we had no representation. During a women’s Sunday brunch they decided to support a candidate to serve on the Kalamazoo City Commission. I was elected in 2007.

PLATFORM: Education, Equity, Economics, Environment.

Education Possibilities where, together, we leverage opportunities for our schools and places of higher education to have the capacity to meet the needs of aspiring and current students. Equity Possibilities where together, we intentionally apply strategies to invest resources in spaces and places that lowers the unacceptable rate of infant mortality and maternal death. Where, together, we continue to create & promote policies and practices to ensure our LGBTQ+ friends are not by who they love, but are embraced, welcomed, and valued because they are a necessary and critical part of our total community. Economic Possibilities, where together, we collaborate with the state to create an economy that ensures District 60 is a hub for enterprising small businesses as well as private and public businesses and where our current and future workforce can imagine working while building a life for themselves in this beautiful City.

Environment Possibilities where, together, we replace terms like Lead, Leaching, PFAS, unsafe water, and compromised air quality

with Smart City, Green City, Clean Energy, Renewable Resources, and Sustainable Fuels.

GOALS IN OFFICE: Sponsor, cosponsor and support bipartisan, equitable legislation.

Ensure equity in Michigan’s budget.

Support Governor Whitmer’s efforts to protect residents from the COVID-19 virus.

SOMEONE YOU LOOK UP TO/DRAW INSPIRATION FROM AND WHY? The Honorable Shirley Chisolm, is the first African American woman to run for President of the US. Her legacy is an affirmation to the power of Black women, the tenacity of Black women and to the legacy of Black women leading, mobilizing and empowering Black, Indigenous and people of color voters to fully participate in the democratic process for generations.

RUNNING FOR: (write-in) State Representative, House District 60 POLITICAL PARTY: Democrat

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CHRISTINE MORSE BACKGROUND:

I studied Political Science at Michigan State University, with intentions to go to law school, of which I graduated from Wayne State University’s law school in 1998. In 2018, I decided to run for County Commissioner against a longtime Republican politician, who had been a State Rep. and a State Senator and had no one running against him. I found it was a way to impact the local community. I personally knocked on over 5,000 doors and raised $20,000. I won by 400 votes.

you didn’t really expect. And I feel this is where I am meant to be right now.

PLATFORM:

The top three really important things I’m focusing on: 1) Funding of schools to the levels we need and changing the standards so they work for our kids. 2) Protecting our drinking water resources and make it safe.

3) Increasing healthcare affordability and acceptability, specifically mandating coverage for those with pre-existing conditions.

GOALS IN OFFICE:

Improving and increasing our public school funding and using experts in education to make sure we have standards that work HOW/WHY DID YOU GET INTO POLITICS? for our kids, as well as improving equity Transparent and responsive leadership, of in school funding and resources. In terms which I wanted for myself. We deserve that of healthcare, I would hop on board with a as constituents. And it really resonated with bill that was proposed that would mandate people. And just saying that in a personal way coverage for pre-existing conditions. and looking into people’s issues makes a huge Working to further improve our water difference. I didn’t go to school and study standards. Expanding Elliott-Larsen for political science with the intention of running LGBTQ. And improving women’s access to for office, but sometimes life, takes you places reproductive health care.

SOMEONE YOU LOOK UP TO/DRAW INSPIRATION FROM AND WHY?

The late Ruth Bader Ginsberg — she was a woman who fought to go to law school, and probably fought her way through everything as a woman, with children. As a Supreme Court Justice, she dealt with cancer while fighting for the justice of the people every day. She was just a bad a*%! She was an amazing, inspirational person who just seems to persevere through everything life throws her way. She was just like, “I’m still here, and I’m trying to be better, and I’m making sure I’m doing right by the American people.” [Ed. note: Christine admitted to having an RBG pin, bag, t-shirt and a game based on her as well.]

Read about Christine’s breast cancer story for Breast Cancer Awareness Month on page 37.

RUNNING FOR: State Representative, House District 61 POLITICAL PARTY: Democrat

JULIE ROGERS BACKGROUND: I was first elected to the

Kalamazoo County Board of Commissioners in 2012 and am currently serving my fourth term. I was elected Board Chair by a majority of my peers in January of 2019. I have served on the National Association of Counties (NACo) Health Steering Committee for the past six years and was one of its Vice Chairs. Locally, I serve on the Kalamazoo County Public Arts Commission and Kalamazoo County Community Corrections Advisory Board.

I was recently nominated to the Class of 2019 Women in Government, a national nonpartisan leadership program for women elected officials of all levels of government.

I am the only health care provider on our County board, and have served on the West Michigan Cancer Center Board, coached Girls on the Run, am a member of the

for all Michiganders (including mental health parity), repeal HOW/WHY DID YOU GET INTO POLITICS? I began work requirements advocating for better healthcare access for for Medicaid my physical therapy patients and served as recipients, strengthen the Federal Affairs Liaison for the Michigan environmental Physical Therapy Association as a liaison to protections, and Congress and the U.S. Senate. After years work to implement of gridlock, I decided I wanted to try to craft the Michigan Task policies myself and first ran for office in 2006.

Force on Jail and Pretrial Incarceration After serving four terms on the Kalamazoo recommendations for criminal justice reform.

County Board of Commissioners, I would SOMEONE YOU LOOK UP TO/DRAW INSPIRATION like to bring my government experience to FROM AND WHY? Senator Debbie Stabenow Lansing to make a bigger impact at the state level to help improve the health and wellbeing – she is a great consensus builder, tireless champion for access to mental health care, of Michiganders. and always has a positive attitude even in PLATFORM: I am prioritizing healthcare for the face of great adversity. She always treats everyone, protecting our environment, me with a warm smile, kindness, and a bit of criminal justice reform, and strengthening her precious time whenever I see her in DC human rights. or here in Michigan. She also got her start in GOALS IN OFFICE: Better access to healthcare government as a County Commissioner!

Borgess Hospital Diversity Council and Lifetime Member of NAACP.

RUNNING FOR: State Representative, House District 60 POLITICAL PARTY: Democrat

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ABIGAIL WHEELER BACKGROUND: I was born in Mattawan

and grew up here. I became a licensed firefighter/EMT when I turned 18, because it was the best way I could think of to support my community. I’m employed by the Texas Township Fire and Rescue and am also a volunteer firefighter for the city of Mattawan. It’s extremely rewarding when I’m able to save someone’s home or property from burning down or help them when there’s been an accident by providing medical assistance.

HOW/WHY DID YOU GET INTO POLITICS? I’m currently serving on the Mattawan Village Council, having ran because I was frustrated by how difficult it was as a citizen to get information about issues happening locally.

I was the highest vote-getter of all the candidates in the 2018 election. Since my election to the council, I’ve focused on improving communications between the local government and the community. We now have a website and Facebook page where information is available and easily accessible so that people know what is going

on. I was motivated to seek higher office because of my experiences as a Village Councilwoman and also what I see every day as a first responder. The people of the 66th district need a state representative who is working for them, not corporate interests.

PLATFORM: Clean, safe drinking water: In the

66th district, both Cooper Township and the city of Parchment have been impacted

by PFAS water contamination caused by industry and neglect. No family should worry if the water coming out of the tap is safe to drink and we must hold corporate polluters accountable for putting working families’ health at risk. Lowering the prices of prescription drugs: My father is diabetic and has had to ration his insulin because of the growing cost. People need to have access to affordable life-saving medications.

Funding our education system: We need to pay our teachers, school support staff, and increase funding to help close the education equity gap between affluent and poor school districts. We must also hold our private/ charter schools to the same standards as our public schools. Accountable and Transparent Government: Michigan ranks

dead last in government accountability and transparency. Our government leaders are elected to serve the public yet the office of the Governor and the Legislature are not required to adhere to FOIA regulations. The government should be accountable to the people of Michigan and not corporate interest groups.

GOALS IN OFFICE: If elected, my priority won’t be about advancing corporate interests or striving for political gain. It’ll be making life better for the people of Michigan’s 66th.

That’s my promise and it’s something that has been missing in the 66th for far too long.

SOMEONE YOU LOOK UP TO/DRAW INSPIRATION FROM AND WHY? I would have to say Katherine Johnson and the entire female team that was profiled in the book and movie “Hidden Figures.” These women were so smart and inspiring. They were highly skilled mathematicians and programmers and they were able to create a space for themselves in a world that was otherwise completely dominated by men.

RUNNING FOR: State Representative, House District 66 POLITICAL PARTY: Democrat

100 Years

OF WOMEN’S RIGHT TOVOTE

MY VOTE IS MY VOICE…AND THE VOICE OF ALL WHO STRUGGLED SO I MAY HAVE MY VOICE.” LYDIA C. OBASI

Regardless of your political affiliation, we encourage you to make sure your voice is heard on November 3rd.

If you aren’t registered to vote or are unsure of your registration status, please visit mvic.sos.state.mi.us for more information.

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A STORY OF

Chasing Crazy

N

othing is more entertaining than a dysfunctional family. Someone once said, ‘No great writer ever had a normal childhood.’

I don’t know if that’s true, but hiding in cars from a gun-toting mother dressed in a straitjacket does make for a great story.”

Perhaps this stokes thoughts of your own childhood experiences — something author Heidi McCrary frequently encounters when discussing her newly-released novel, “Chasing North Star.” Originally the novel, intended as a memoir, was inspired by conversations Heidi and her sister would have about their own childhood following book club discussions while reading “The Glass Castle: A Memoir,” by Jeanette Walls.

These back and forths the two would exchange would explore more of the two’s childhood escapades with their three other siblings and wacky mother, all growing up in Alamo, Michigan. Heidi thought, “You know what? This was funny. We had an unbalanced childhood. Sometimes it was wonderful and funny, but part of it was very dark. I was the youngest of five and thank God my older siblings protected me. Our adventures were really colorful and worth writing about.”

The journey began in 2013. Heidi would spend time,while her husband worked as a ski instructor in the winter months, putting together her novel. She remembers that date as, “It was the first thing I wrote when I started writing, because I wanted to remember exactly when I started writing it.”

The few years journey it took to write the novel wasn’t so much the struggle, nor was sharing the story. Rather it was finding someone to publish it. The writing world is

A look at Heidi McCrary’s newly released novel, “Chasing North Star” at this time especially saturated with writing from nearly everyone with a computer and the ability to speak. Heidi began her journey to publishing by looking for an agent, but no one was looking for a book like hers. Rather, there was indication agents were looking for more youthful books, or more like the next “Twilight” of novels.

Two years of trying to find an agent led Heidi to forgo the agent and explore selfpublishing options in the form of hybrid publishing. The writer pays for the cost to produce the book up front. The publisher retains some of the profit, but the writer comes away with more of the profits than in just your typical publishing. A win on all fronts, and it also ensured her book was published and distributed. Her first discovery and attempt of finding a hybrid publisher landed her with She Writes Press.

In her editing process, Heidi would come to discover a tedious process of editing words via the “book of things you cannot say in your book” list that was shared with her. Words like “idiot” had to be changed. And her most painful thing to give up would be her original title, “Chasing Crazy,” due to the considered offensiveness of calling one “crazy.”

She had also shared the novel with her siblings, sparking frequent conversations that would at times fill in the holes to stories Heidi only could remember pieces of due to her young age (and her sibling’s incredible protectiveness). In some cases, they couldn’t remember parts either. Some would remark Heidi didn’t make their mother mean enough, but the intent was to make her a little human. Regardless, the enjoyable conversations brought on a further closeness in her family, and some resolve in sharing the chaos that was their childhood.

It is truly a well-written finished product of a beautifully amusing look at Heidi’s dysfunctional family over the course of

BY LALITA CHEMELLO

1970, and the extreme highs and lows of a childhood coursing along with her own mother’s bipolar highs and lows. All this while intertwining the coarse childhood her mother lived prior to a wonderful story of love and a promised better start in America.

Heidi’s story introduces readers to a near-real take on the stories of living with someone with a mental illness, especially in an era where these are things not spoken of, which is insightfully and somewhat amusingly illustrated in spots of the story.

At times, you may find yourself needing to set the book down reading through some of the disturbing scenes from her own life.

But in other scenes you enjoy the amusing adventures of kids being just kids: like riding along with Heidi on her way to the neighbor’s house to drop off her mom’s cigarettes, so she can catch a spot of, “The Mary Tyler Moore,” show on their color television, loving the ability to see the real colors of Mary’s home.

Some stories may leave you feeling like you’re invading a truly personal story, but you are invited in to share in the delights of the Phillips children, while understanding the realness of their living situation and the true strength of character it provided them.

And that’s exactly how Heidi intended it to be.

“I do want people to realize, we all had f’ed up childhoods, and we all survived…for the most part. We came out alright on the other end. And that’s alright.”

Heidi’s novel, “Chasing North Star” was released last month with She Writes Press of California.

You can find her novel in bookstores around the Kalamazoo area and retail stores. Follow Heidi at heidimccrary.net and fb.com/HeidiMcCraryAuthor And make sure to catch her on her upcoming book tour under the potential name of, “My childhood was more f*cked up than yours. Or was it?”

She Means Business 2020

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DEFINING & SETTING

Boundaries

F O R A S U C C E S S F U L FA L L Results, Relationships, and Being Ridiculously in Charge is the subtitle of the book, Boundaries for Leaders by Dr. Henry Cloud, and is still touted as essential read for everyone who aspires to lead companies, teams and cultures that are defined by high performance and healthy relationships.

Published in 2013, Cloud’s book addresses a critical question for people in any organization or group: “With the many benefits that appropriate boundaries provide, WHY don’t we establish and maintain boundaries in our professional and personal lives?!”

WHAT ARE BOUNDARIES?

Cloud states, “A boundary is a structure that determines what will exist and what will not.”

Boundaries are made up of two essential elements: what you create and what you allow.

They can be defined as limits that people set — both physical and emotional in nature — creating order and a healthy sense of personal space.

So, boundaries show where something ends and another begins. Many types of boundaries exist: physical, emotional, personal, time and social. They come in the form of a state or property line, office space, defined procedures, calendar blocking, acceptable behavior … the list goes on.

PURPOSE OF BOUNDARIES

Boundaries establish limits to protect and guide us. Ultimately, boundaries put the control in your hands and put you in charge of your life. Although setting or having boundaries in place may sound intimidating, the beauty is that when they are deliberately put in place and followed, they will guide you to success.

Like traffic lanes, they keep you safe and on the right course. Appropriate boundaries help to ensure that your relationships grow and are healthy and that you’re protected from negative influence or manipulation by others.

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She Means Business 2020

Setting and consistently maintaining boundaries at work brings focus, with successes to follow. For example, here’s Cindy’s story about boundaries she put in place.

As a new coaching client at KDIC, Cindy came to us with the need to develop and grow her mindset and confidence in feeling, being and appearing put together and at the top of her game. She was stepping into a new leadership role in her career and needed to have everything in place to support her new endeavor. Her goal was to have a process that kept her organized and on top of new tasks, while presenting herself in a poised and confident manner.

Knowing the requirements of the role, her own personal limitations, and her short- and longterm goals, we put a plan in place. Boundaries began with an efficient layout of her office space, desk and workspace. Both hard copy and electronic collateral materials were laid out for easy access and friendly, efficient daily use. With supportive procedures and systems in place, next Cindy set guarded time aside in her schedule. This included an early morning planning time, before staff arrived for the workday, so she would be ready for her day and to lead her team. Also, a weekly strategic time block was set aside for projects, planning and thinking through the demands that would come with her new position.

With boundaries set and honored, Cindy’s sought-after poise and confidence was won!

She now confidently leads her team, makes it to meetings with the correct folders and documents in hand, and closes the end of her workday knowing that everything is in place for her next day. She is also able to handle the inevitable “unexpecteds” with grace because she has a solid foundation to work from.

HOW TO EFFECTIVELY SET BOUNDARIES

To set effective boundaries for yourself, you might begin in much the same manner as Cindy’s process did.

• Decide what you’re trying to achieve or what adjustments you want to make.

• Be honest with yourself. How do you operate? What are your strengths and limitations?

• Consider your past. What has worked before and what hasn’t?

• Seek support with a coach (or a trusted successful colleague/mentor) who can help you with the process.

• Decide on a set of actions or steps that will support better boundaries.

Then deliberately take the first step; it will guide you to the next.

How has setting boundaries affected you?

What successful boundaries do you have working in your world? Are there others you should put in place that will help set you up for success this fall or in 2021?

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

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SHE MEANS

BUSINESS

When she means business, SHE MEANS BUSINESS. So many great, local women lead and have started some great businesses around Kalamazoo and the surrounding areas. Many you know and love, and some are bound to leave you pleasantly surprised. Read on and meet the women who make it happen in Southwest Michigan!

* 269-350-5227 | moxiemagazine.net | info@moxiemediagroup.net *

Ean P. Hamilton Ean Hamilton is an attorney and partner with Hamilton Law, PLC, a law firm that provides legal assistance to individuals, families, and small business owners in Southwest Michigan. Whether a person requires assistance with estate planning, probate issues, or corporate matters, Ean and the team at Hamilton Law help protect their interests and prepare them for change. Ean’s goal is to make clients feel comfortable and at ease the moment they walk into the office or hear her voice over the phone. Ean says, “ Law firms can be intimidating, and I am working to reverse that image!”

1803 Whites Rd, Suite 5, Kalamazoo 269.488.8394 | ean@hamiltonlawplc.com www.hamiltonlawplc.com

A graduate of the University of Michigan, Ean went on to earn her JD from the Thomas M. Cooley Law School. She has been practicing law for over ten years and is licensed to practice in Virginia and Michigan. After practicing at firms in Washington DC and Kalamazoo, Ean decided to open Hamilton Law in September 2019. She says, “Hamilton

Attorney & Partner

Law is my baby, and I am excited to see it grow!”

Ean is married to Phillip Hamilton, who is an attorney and her business partner at Hamilton Law. The Hamiltons lived in Washington DC for four years but moved back to Michigan six years ago to be closer to family. They and their two sons, six-year-old Parker and three-year-old Austin, enjoy life in Portage.

Ean gives back to the community in many ways, including serving on the boards of Boys & Girls Club Kalamazoo, Inner City Youth for Change and Friendship Village. In addition to her board appointments, Ean is also a Kalamazoo Valley Community College Trustee.

She is an avid runner and loves to run outside in the spring and summer.

Ean also enjoys shopping, either online or searching for something in the store. Ean’s favorite activities are spending time and laughing with her family and friends.

She Means Business 2020

23

Team

Meet the MARIA SORRENTINO

President of Pest Pros

Maria serves as the President of Pest Pros and has led a career in several different roles within the pest control industry. She is on a mission to create a better quality of life for people which is reflected in how she does business with her clients and supports her team. Under Maria’s leadership, Pest Pros prioritizes their commitment to people by creating jobs where employees have unlimited potential to create the path they desire. One of her goals is to become a Best & Brightest Company to Work For. This results in excellent customer service and contributes to her passion of positively impacting the greater good and community. In her opinion, Pest control is an added advantage to society but isn’t the sole reason she wakes up to come to work every day. Maria immerses herself in leadership activities allowing her to be a resource for entrepreneurs who want to make a positive impact in the world. One of her goals is to become a Best and Brightest Companies to Work For by creating a work environment where people want to be. When Maria isn’t working on the business, you will find her reading a book, hanging with her husband, kids and furry friends.

AMBER BYARS

ESHAH WILDER

Amber serves as the General Pest Operations Manager and oversees the residential division by leading onboarding and training initiatives for the team. Amber’s superpower is building relationships by being a leader for her team and working closely with customers to solve their problems. Customer service is second nature for her and she will regularly go beyond with service; like helping someone change a tire on the side of the road while en route. She enjoys working at Pest Pros with like-minded people on the same mission with goals and an unstoppable vision. She is proud to be minimizing stigmas in the pest control industry as a woman. Amber is extremely family oriented and loves spending time with her dog, Eleven.

Eshah serves as the Commercial Operations Manager and Community Connector for Pest Pros. Right off the bat you will notice her infectious personality.

She is naturally adept at making lasting connections with people and is actively involved in the business networking scene. When it comes to process Eshah is an efficient problem solver that is typically a step ahead on executing.

Eshah thrives in a fast-paced environment and likes to be challenged which has led her to be exceptional in her leadership roles. She enjoys working at Pest Pros because of her flexibility when it comes to making decisions that impact clients and the business. Her pride and joys are her three children Alyssa, Lunah and Niko. In her free time, you will find her spending time with her loved ones.

GPC Operations & Technical Training Manager

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October 2020

Commercial Operations Manager & Community Connector

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KENDEL CHEATHAM Wildlife Operations Manager Kendel serves as the Wildlife Operations Manager for Pest Pros, which is perfectly aligned with her love for animals. She is full of ideas and a rockstar when it comes to accountability. Kendel is dedicated to her purpose of helping people grow and develop by coaching others to their own level of success. Going above and beyond the call of duty is something Kendel does often, like, when she took her tip money to help a customer because it was the right thing to do. She enjoys working at Pest Pros because of the camaraderie and the way people support each other and show up as their best selves. In her free time, you will most often find her spending time with her friends, family and sweet dog, Diggs.

CHELSIE FALL, SHRM-CP

TAYLOR HUGHES

Chelsie serves as the People and Performance Manager at Pest Pros because she has a true gift when it comes to developing talent. She has a passion for managing the team’s energy and fosters collaboration in an effort to create cohesive synergy with everyone involved internally and externally.

She brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to her role by holding a degree in Organizational Communication and a Society of Human Resources Management Certified Professional Certification.

Her favorite part about working at Pest Pros is the autonomy and drive the team has because they are encouraged to pursue their dreams and are presented with unlimited opportunity.

Chelsie loves everything and anything outdoors and you will most often find her spending time with her husband and their two young children.

Taylor is the most recent addition to the Pest Pros team and serves as the Customer Service and Scheduling Specialist. She is currently finishing up her associate’s degree and is planning to explore opportunities in several different areas. She is exceptionally intelligent and has had several roles where she excelled in customer service.

By nature, she is responsible and loves to take care of people, especially, her younger siblings. She enjoys working at Pest Pros because she likes the functions of an office setting and appreciates the autonomous internal culture. In her free time, she enjoys going to the beach, shopping and hanging out with her friends.

People & Performance Manager

Customer Service & Scheduling Specialist

PEST PROS OF MICHIGAN | 269. 993.0051 info@pestprosmi.com | 5068 S Sprinkle Rd Portage, MI

She Means Business 2020

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Sabrina Pritchett-Evans State Farm Agent

Sabrina Pritchett-Evans is a dynamic business owner with insurance and financial services operations in Kalamazoo and South Haven. Sabrina and her talented staff specialize in home, auto, business, life, and disability insurance, as well as annuity and brokerage accounts. She has a passion for helping clients develop a strong financial foundation by discovering what is important to them and then protecting it with competitive insurance and financial service products backed by a strong company.

how much you care. Sabrina is a passionate community activist, wife, and mother of two adult sons.

One of the driving ideals behind Sabrina’s successful business practices: people don’t care how much you know until they know

In her rare moments of free time, Sabrina loves to watch tennis, but doesn’t play. She also enjoys shopping and indulging in fine dining.

She is a member of numerous non-profit organizations, including LISC, League of Women Voters of Kalamazoo, Lakeside for Children, and the Borgess Foundation. In addition to her multiple commitments throughout the community, Sabrina is the co-founder of Tendaji, a philanthropic group of Black women supporting and advancing non-profit work in the Kalamazoo area.

STATE FARM INSURANCE | 2618 Portage Street, Kalamazoo | 1400 Kalamazoo Street, Suite 1, South Haven

Julie Powell

KELLY DUGGAN Image Consulting, LLC, offers a total image service, including executive presence development, personal brand strategy and careerinterview readiness, through coaching, speaking and consulting. Additional services include signature style and wardrobe development, personal shopping and eyewear selection service for men and women.

Skin Care Specialist

Julie Powell is a licensed Cosmetologist, Certified Medical Skin Care Specialist and Certified Laser Technician in practice for 31 years. 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 need 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, Chemical Peels and Specialty Skin Care treatments.

PARKWAY PLASTIC SURGERY | 269.343.5750 www.parkwayps.com | 575 W Crosstown Parkway 26

She Means Business 2020

Kelly Duggan Founder & President

Kelly is an award-winning image consultant. Her passion: to help clients realize the power they have in themselves, develop their inner poise and confidence, and position themselves strategically for greater professional and personal success. “I help my clients authentically and strategically think, feel and present their very best.” In addition, Kelly is an independent stylist with J.Hilburn Menswear.

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

Becky Johnson

Business Manager When people walk through the doors at Vandenberg Furniture, they immediately see the beautiful sofas, bedroom sets and more.

What they might miss, is the incredible woman who helps make it all happen because she’s busy running the logistics behind the scenes.

Becky Johnson, Business Manager, works to ensure that every purchase and inquiry is a pleasant experience. Becky is a wife, mom, self-taught IT and website manager, as well as an avid flower gardener in her spare time.

VANDENBERG FURNITURE | 12000 N US 131, Schoolcraft, MI 49087 269.679.4055 | vandenbergfurniture.com

Jenn Tangeman Owner

Jenn Tangeman is a firm believer in the importance of loving what you do! She is passionate about working to support the lifestyle you want to live and not living to work. Following this guiding principle, Jenn has built a company that emphasizes the importance of authentic, quality relationships with clients and employees.

Founded in 2008, Clean by Design has quickly built a reputation as one of the leading residential and commercial cleaning solutions providers. Jenn and her team’s dedication to excellence has resulted in consistent growth each year.

Jenn says, “Our focus is listening to our clients, understanding their needs, and providing an exceptional level of service.”

Jenn’s proudest accomplishment is raising three beautiful children: Conner, 16, Lillyana, 14, and Shawn, 13, as a single mom.

CLEAN BY DESIGN | 269.366.5994 www.cleanbydesignkazoo.com | cleanbydesignkazoo@gmail.com

6 OF THE 18 POWERFUL WOMEN REPRESENTING BKC

She Means Business 2020

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Melissa Gregersen Photographer/Owner

Melissa Gregersen opened the Gregersen Photography studio in 2007 with a commitment to provide highquality photography and an enjoyable experience for clients during the most memorable times of their lives.

Specializing in newborn and family photography, Melissa’s studio is roomy and welcoming for the entire family. This beautiful, relaxing environment helps Melissa provide gorgeous portraits and full-service boutique photography that will be cherished for a lifetime. Melissa likes to remind clients, “Photographs will never depreciate, their value actually increases with time as they become treasured family heirlooms.”

Melissa’s most significant source

of inspiration is her family. She is supported in both business and life by her husband of 18 years, Jayme. They have two daughters, Norah and Noelle.

The family loves to enjoy Michigan summers by camping all around the state. Their favorite activities are hiking, biking, enjoying sunsets on Lake Michigan, and trying out all of the fun ice cream shops in the small tourist towns.

When asked to describe herself in one sentence, Melissa says, “I am a child of God, wife, mother, photographer, businesswoman, Chicago Cubs fan, camper, lover of Michigan sunsets, and oh so incredibly grateful for the things listed above.”

GREGERSEN PHOTOGRAPHY, LLC | 269.352.6083 | 5100 E Michigan Ave, Kalamazoo gregersenphotography.com | melissa@gregersenphotography.com

Michelle Mitchell Owner, Financial Strategist & Business Consultant

Michelle Mitchell is the owner of Mitchell Consulting, a virtual accounting and business development firm based in Kalamazoo. Her drive to empower female entrepreneurs to bridge the gap between passion and profit sets Michelle apart in her field.

Michelle established Mitchell Consulting in 2010 with the goal of using her background in finance and education to teach financial literacy and business development to entrepreneurs.

Over the past ten years, Michelle has carefully built a team of certified Quickbooks Online accountants. The Mitchell Consulting team teaches service-based business owners how to become more profitable while becoming the CEO of their business. In addition,

Michelle and her team provide the technical assistance business owners need using Quickbooks Online and creating financial workflow systems.

Michelle has her BBA in Accounting from Western Michigan University and dual Master’s Degrees in Organizational Management and Career & Technical Education. She is also a member of an elite group of advanced certified Quickbooks Online ProAdvisors.

Michelle’s favorite part of her work is seeing clients have that “ah-ha” moment and see that all of their hard work is paying off.

When Michelle isn’t hard at work with her clients, she enjoys spending time with her husband, Tony, and their two adult children.

MITCHELL CONSULTING | 269.359.0590 | info@mitchellconsultingservice.com 28

She Means Business 2020

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Ethel Wilkey-Downs

Realtor

Ethel Wilkey-Downs established her real estate business in 2013, working as a full-time realtor with Berkshire Hathaway. While Ethel excels in supporting both sellers and buyers achieving their real estate goals, her niche is first-time home buyers. Over the past seven years, Ethel has guided more than 130 of her first time home buyer clients through the process of becoming homeowners! This is an accomplishment she cherishes. Although Ethel thoroughly enjoys helping these clients, her expertise has served a wide array of clients from those searching for half-million-dollar lake homes to new real estate investors with budgets as low as $25,000.

Ethel has a firm foundation in business management. Watching her mom build and run a successful business for over 25 years made a powerful impression on Ethel, particularly about the importance of good business values and the true meaning of quality customer service. Ethel earned her first degree in Hotel & Restaurant Management and began a career with Bill Knapp’s restaurant chain. This career led to a chance meeting with a property management firm, and in 1991, Ethel joined that firm and began her real estate career.

After years of working in the real estate industry, Ethel enrolled in the Elementary Education program at Western Michigan University, earning her degree in 2003. She spent years as a classroom teacher before her love of the real estate industry, and her entrepreneurial spirit called her back into the business world, this time as the owner of her own real estate business.

Ethel’s clients value her dedication to customer service, her strong negotiating skills, and excellent communication. Serving on Berkshire Hathaway’s Beyond the Sale Committee allows Ethel to focus on giving back to local residents and the community. She is also a member of the Greater Kalamazoo Association of Realtors, where she has served on their Community Relations Committee and co-chaired the Veteran’s Day Community Event. One of her proudest professional accomplishments is being names to the GKAR Board of REALTORS Top 100 Agents five times in the past seven years.

Ethel loves being a wife, mom, and grandma. Cooking is her passion, and she loves to create new recipes and experiment with new dishes. Nothing makes Ethel happier than being in the kitchen cooking with her children.

Ethel would one day love to open her own food truck.

BERKSHIRE HATHAWAY | 269. 267.0515 | www.ethelwilkey.bhhsmichiganrealestate.com | ethelwilkey@bhhsmi.com She Means Business 2020

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Rachel Gruetzner

Family Law Attorney & Owner

Graduating summa cum lade with her JD from Michigan State University, with a Trial Practice Certificate from the Geoffery Fieger Trial Practice Institute, Rachel Gruetzner founded Your Path Family Law, a family law firm providing fixedfee legal services for divorce and child custody disputes in Kalamazoo and Southwest Michigan. Rachel and her team provide high-quality legal services to individuals and families throughout Michigan at predictable prices.

Rachel is what many call a CODA (Child of Deaf Adult). Rachel says, “My father, sisters and my maternal grandparents are deaf. To my knowledge, I am one of around three

family law attorneys in Michigan who can use sign language.” Regardless of the method of communication, Rachel founded her practice on the ideal that listening is an act of love.

The team at Your Path Family Law believes that the number one job of everyone in the firm is to hear their clients and help them make good decisions in less-than-ideal circumstances, based on what they’ve heard.

Rachel is engaged and looking forward to her wedding on December 12th. She and her fiancée share an adorable dog, Rizzo, named after Anthony Rizzo of the Cubs. When she isn’t practicing law, Rachel loves to garden, swim, and read.

YOUR PATH FAMILY LAW | 269.888.2513 | 5144 Gull Rd, Kalamazoo | rachel@yourpathfamilylaw.com | yourpathfamilylaw.com

Jacque Jennings-Carter

Anti-Aging Specialist, International Business Developer

Each day is a new opportunity for Jacque to fulfill her passion for educating others about Redox Signaling Molecules, the technology behind them and why prioritizing our health is important.

“I love showing people how to achieve optimal health, helping them understand that working toward improved and/or optimal health is an investment in themselves, rather than an expense,” she says. “One of the most important items to include in a personal wellness plan is Redox Signaling Molecules. The health choices we make today will affect us years from now. It’s up to us whether we want the effect to be positive or negative long-term. The reality is that

being healthy does cost money; and the older we get, the more costly it can be to maintain optimal health. However, being sick costs significantly more and affects everyone, not just the family member who is sick.” Jacque encourages everyone to remember, “If you ignore your health, it will go away.”

Jacque is a passionate, life-long community volunteer, donor and sponsor who works with organizations for the benefit of children, animals, social justice, gender equality, victims of abuse, veterans, mental health awareness & the elderly. She is most proud of her daughter, Ashley, sonin-law Jake, & loves spending time with them & their two dogs, Max and Sunny.

ASEA - Jacque Jennings-Carter | 269.779.2900 | Jacque@AdvancingLives.biz | www.AdvancingLives.myASEAlive.com 30

She Means Business 2020

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Audrey “Audie” Henriquez Executive Director

Audie Henriquez went back to school to get her degree in management under the thought, “People don’t quit their jobs; they quit their bosses. So, what would it look like if the way that I believe is reflected in the way that I lead?” Audie took that thought into her work as Executive Director of North Woods Village Memory Care. Under her care, their memory care facility provides the best for their residents with licensed caregiving staff, including licensed nurses and caregivers. Not only that, but their facility specializes in memory care, with experts to work through challenges and behaviors associated with dementia.

This spring she’ll celebrate 35 years with her husband. They have three adult sons and a three-year-old grandson.

Tracy Anthony Director of Nursing Tracy Anthony has worked in the medical field her whole adult life, while practicing nursing for the last 15 of those years. Her expertise melds fluidly into her role as Director of Nursing at Northwoods Village, a 61-bed assisted living memory care facility, specializing in Dementia. The Village assists residents with all activities of daily living that are often difficult for family to provide in all stages of dementia care. They like to establish themselves as a resident’s extended family and provide them with the best possible care.

When she’s not caring for the elderly, Tracy enjoys spending time watching her children play local league sports and travel clubs, camping, kayaking, crafts and scrapbooking.

NORTH WOODS VILLAGE KALAMAZOO | 616. 397.2200 | northwoodsmemorycare.com 6203 Stadium Dr Kalamazoo, MI 49009 She Means Business 2020

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Amelia Lietzau

Commercial Real Estate & Construction Consultant

Amelia is dedicated to helping business owners make great property decisions. Whether representing buyers, tenants, or business owners, Amelia and her colleagues at The Barton Group are committed to the success of the businesses with which they partner by offering experienced, heartfelt service to meet specific property needs. Amelia loves at the end of a project when business owners want to do it again; repeat business is the highest compliment!

In addition to her work in the commercial sector, Amelia and The Barton Group specialize in

working with non-profits and love to gift time and resources to their clients. The Barton Group loves to passionately invest time into making our community a better place, and they are intentional about fostering relationships that raise the bar for all involved.

Amelia and her husband, Derek, live in Decatur with their eightmonth-old son, Waylon, two dogs (Apollo & AJ), and two cats (Berry & Holly). When Amelia isn’t busy representing clients, she enjoys spending time at Little Paw Paw Lake, working on home projects, finding fun eateries, cooking, and spending time outside.

THE BARTON GROUP | 269.823.3572 | 8750 Portage Industrial Dr, Portage | amelia@bartongroupllc.com | www.bartongroupllc.com

Chelsie Fall

SHRM-CP, Human Resources Communication Strategist Chelsie Fall is the Human Resources Communication Strategist and founder of Chelsie Fall & Associates, where they emphasize people management as a key to success.

Chelsie is on a mission to change the way we think about employees in the workplace and supports small businesses by implementing a communication strategy to bring the workplace together. The result is a dynamic, interdependent alignment of culture and operations customized to support each aspect of a business’s unique purpose.

Chelsie brings her fresh perspective and multi-industry expertise directly to those who need it. She lives in Kalamazoo with her husband, Kyle, their two young children, and their sweet dog.

CHELSIE FALL & ASSOCIATES | 734.658.7076 cfall@chelsiefall.com | www.chelsiefall.com 32

She Means Business 2020

Genevieve Allen

Owner & Business Manager

Genevieve Allen and her husband Ronni designed Fresh Coast Auto Detail to serve the premium, exotic, and luxury automobile owner’s discerning needs. Whether it is assisting clients through the process of restoring a historic vehicle or simply protecting the finish on someone’s daily driver, Genevieve, Ronni, and the team at Fresh Coast Auto Detail are driven by the desire to achieve the perfect outcome for every client, in every situation.

Away from the studio, Genevieve loves to travel, cook, and most of all, spend time with her family. She and Ronni have been married for six years and are parents of two boys; Vincent and Dominic, and two dogs; Memphis and Penelope.

FRESH COAST AUTO DETAIL | 269.459.9900 freshcoastautodetail.com | 6811 West KL Avenue, Ste A, Kalamazoo moxiemagazine.net

Bronwyn Haltom

Candidate for State Representative, House District 61 Bronwyn Haltom is from a new generation of leadership, focused on getting real results for our community. She believes it’s time for her generation to step up, and start working together to tackle our state’s biggest challenges. She is a candidate for State Representative in the 61st District, encompassing the City of Portage, Oshtemo, Texas, Schoolcraft and Prairie Ronde Townships in Kalamazoo County.

Bronwyn is running to keep the state and community she loves headed in the right direction as our leaders tackle unprecedented challenges. “I think it’s time our elected officials stop screaming at each other and start working to get real results for our community.”

Michigan is home for Bronwyn — she grew up in Oshtemo, attended Kalamazoo Valley Community College, and earned her degree from the University of Michigan. After meeting her husband, Thomas, they bought a home in Texas Corners, where they own a small marketing and communications firm.

Bronwyn developed a passion for public service early on. As a child, she aspired to be a US Secret Service Agent and joined the Kalamazoo Department of Public Safety’s Explorer Post for young people interested in law enforcement.

As COVID-19 has placed additional strains on so many aspects of life, Bronwyn believes it is crucial that our representatives have the right priorities in creating a healthier state.

For Bronwyn, it’s all about jobs and education. She has heard it from thousands of parents, employers, and young people in every corner of her district. Bronwyn is committed to expanding Michigan’s status as a hub of innovation and job creation.

Southwest Michigan’s remarkable development in recent years proves that another economic comeback is possible with the right leadership.

Bronwyn believes investing in education means stronger schools and more programs that connect talented students to meaningful career pathways. As Lansing faces the difficult tasks of addressing significant budget shortfalls, Bronwyn will put education funding first.

Now more than ever, healthcare is a critical issue for every Michigander. Protecting coverage for those with pre-existing conditions is non-negotiable for Bronwyn. She pledges to work with anyone, regardless of party, to find real-world solutions that expand access to affordable healthcare and empower patients with more coverage options.

Bronwyn understands that our elected officials work for us, and increase transparency in Lansing by holding legislators accountable, strengthening ethics laws, and working to eliminate perks for politicians at taxpayer expense. Bronwyn is committed to making Kalamazoo County the best place to live, work, and raise a family.

BRONWYN HALTOM Candidate for State Representative, House District 61 | 269. 903.9462 | bronwynhaltom.com She Means Business 2020

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Dawn SwickRenshaw CEO and Social Media Strategist If you’re looking for a social media expert in the area, Dawn Swick-

Renshaw is the woman to find. The Social Media Strategist and CEO of

Stoney Creek Social Media in Portage created a business focused on social media marketing and strategy for local businesses and businesses

across the United States and Canada.

Her expertise has brought her on podcasts, radio and TV interviews,

as well as in the latest book of four-time, New York Times best-selling

author Gary Vaynerchuk’s, “#AskGaryVee.” Outside of work, when she’s not spending time with her family, you can find her reading and/or

learning everything she can about marketing, she just loves it that much.

STONEY CREEK SOCIAL MEDIA | 517.918.9004 dawn@stoneycreeksocialmedia.com | stoneycreeksocialmedia.com

Alicia Pauwels Lead Graphic Designer

Graphic design ties together two things Alicia is passionate about: art & problemsolving. She enjoys the challenge of pulling together pieces of information & transforming them into something that is enjoyable to look at & easy to digest. She loves her work! And as the graphic designer at Moxie, it’s her job to combine those elements to stay true to the brand: Fresh, Fun, and Fabulous.

Alicia was raised in Muskegon, MI and earned her BFA at Central Michigan University. After her career took her to New Jersey, then Florida, her love for her home state brought her back to Michigan.

Besides her work on Moxie Magazine, she also works as a Graphic Designer for FireKeepers Casino Hotel. When she finds a moment between projects, she loves walking her dogs, Tenny and Lefty; painting; photographing events; listening to books & podcasts; & spending time with her family (she is a proud aunt to four so far).

MOXIE MEDIA GROUP | apauwels@moxiemediagroup.net www.moxiemediagroup.net | facebook.com/aliciajeanphoto 34

She Means Business 2020

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Mary Beth Lyons

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A Single Ray of Hope, LLC is a trusted and insured Personal Assistant & Concierge Service that has been serving southwest Michigan for 13 years. Do you A SINGLE RAY OF HOPE I ever wish you could wave a magic wand and all tasks on your to-do list were already done? Wait no more! Schedule a consultation with Mary Beth to learn how you can Reclaim Your Time Today!

Warning: Benefits include breathing easier, having peace of mind, and living longer and happier lives.

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A SINGLE RAY OF HOPE | 269.720.7605 MaryBeth@ASingleRayOfHope.com

Lalita Chemello Editor, Creator

Our Editor, Lalita, is not someone who has been known for sitting still. If actions cannot be made, she goes out and makes them happen. Combine that with her love and talent of writing, and you have an unstoppable creator. It’s why we have her here to ensure you are reading great content, every month.

When she’s not editing our pages or writing up stories on deadline, she runs a podcast with her partner, Josh, called “The MiMoto Podcast,” talking about the history and lifestyle of the motorsport, automotive and motorcycle worlds. She also freelances as a Contributing Editor for Porsche’s Panorama magazine, and does website design and photography under her small business, LMC Media, LLC. And if that wasn’t enough, her day job is currently as a vampire, or rather a phlebotomist for Versiti. Add in some day trips around the state, rides on her motorcycle, writing a novel and spending time with her partner and two dogs, Matty and Luna, she’s always moving.

MOXIE MEDIA GROUP | 810.333.6624 lchemello@moxiemediagroup.net | www.moxiemediagroup.net moxiemagazine.net

Susan M. Dennis

D.D.S.

Founder and CEO, Dr. Susan Dennis, finds the motivation to come to work each day in giving people of all ages the smile of their dreams.

As an expert in cosmetic dentistry and a Gold Invisalign® provider, she has helped hundreds of her patients experience the life-changing benefits of a healthy and beautiful smile.

Dr. Dennis is a compassionate and trusted professional who partners with her patients to provide them with the best possible care in her state-of-the-art office. From full-mouth reconstruction to proper jaw alignment to prevent - and even cure – headaches to whitening teeth, she is widely-recognized as an expert in her field.

“I listen to each patient’s story and concerns,” says Dr. Dennis. “Then I prepare a personalized treatment plan based on their needs and wants.

I give my patients everything they need to maintain optimal dental health. From the young to the young-at-heart, my passion is to give every patient a healthy and beautiful smile for life.”

“My passion is to give every patient a healthy and beautiful smile for life.”

Dr. Dennis is very active in her community.

She is the team dentist for several Western Michigan University sports teams and sponsors at least one charitable event every quarter, including the popular “$10,000 Smile Makeover Contest”. She is happily married to Jim Murray and together they have three wonderful sons and daughters-in-law and eight grandchildren. They chose to live in southwest Michigan many years ago when they fell in love with this family-oriented community.

SUSAN M. DENNIS, DDS | 269.216.7106 | MyDrDennis.com | 8150 Moorsbridge Rd, Suite A, Portage, Ml

Kim Yancey

Nikki Miller

I’m a Texan- born girl who found her home in Kalamazoo. As a professional freelance graphic designer, I help my clients communicate clearly by transforming their vision into effective design. My twenty-plus years in the printing industry have given me the opportunity to complete many projects, like corporate logos and branding, packaging, book covers, magazines, bridal suites, restaurant menus, billboards, advertisements and marketing materials.

For the past 11 years, Nikki Miller has used

Graphic Designer Fine Art Photogapher

I have also provided professional photography for commercial and personal uses, as well as producing fine art photography for exhibition and sale. I love creating and learning new things while sharing concepts and ancey ideas with others. I’m inspired by music, nature, reatives architecture and cultural diversity. I am grateful for my many blessings and would love to be a part of your next project.

Travel Consultant & Owner, Travel With Nikki her extensive travel knowledge, on-theground contacts, and knack for knowing the ins and outs of travel to help her travelers have the best vacation experiences possible.

Nikki’s top destinations include Hawaii, Mexico, the Caribbean, and the Walt Disney World Resort. Her attention to detail helps avoid those disappointing “well, maybe next time we visit visit ... “ moments of travel. Nikki’s travelers are able to show up, experience the destination and come home with memories that are sure to last a lifetime.

C

K YANCEY CREATIVES | 616.581.7641 kyanceycreatives@gmail.com | facebook.com/kyanceycreatives

TRAVEL WITH NIKKI | 734.535.8865 travelwithnikki.com | nikki@travelwithnikki.com She Means Business 2020

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Mental Health AFTER THE Pandemic H

umans are not built to deal with a pandemic. Especially those who already suffer from higher levels of depression & anxiety. Hopefully, we are getting closer to returning to a new normal, but two things remain: the damage that took place during the isolation phases & the challenges that are resulting in having to step back out into the world.

Many mental health issues thrive in isolation and being disconnected from others. For example, people with eating disorders often use secrecy as an unhealthy coping skill.

Isolation may have given some people who are suffering “permission” to not go grocery shopping, only buying what’s available which could be a binge food, or not eating in front of other people for months. People who are suffering from anxiety or depression are encouraged to have structure in their daily life or test out triggering environments — both of which have not been possible during this quarantine. While secrecy might be easy to come by, private may not. Even if a person can access their mental health provider, they may have family, a roommate, partner, or kids around making it challenging to focus and fully express themselves.

Now that many people are back to work, school, etc., it’s important to reestablish a new routine for yourself. It likely won’t look like what it did before the quarantine began, but we need to take time to find our new normal with our mental health needs at the forefront. Brush off your list of coping skills that worked before – are they still attainable?

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October 2020

What changes need to be made to keep them accessible to you? Are you talking yourself out of what might be best for you because of something that felt comfortable during the quarantine but now needs to be revisited?

Many of us are still in survival mode, and rightly so. It’s ok to still feel overwhelmed and stressed. There are still many unknowns and changes coming our way. And, it’s important not to get too stuck in one phase.

We can do this by continuing to evaluate our needs and stay educated.

The CDC suggests keeping an eye out for these common signs of distress: • Feelings of feelings of fear, anger, sadness, worry, numbness, or frustration • Changes in appetite, energy, and activity levels • Difficulty concentrating and making decisions • Difficulty sleeping or nightmares • Physical reactions, such as headaches, body pains, stomach problems, and skin rashes • Worsening of chronic health problems • Increased use of alcohol, tobacco, or other drugs In addition to these physical signs, try to identify what your anxiety is related to.

Are you feeling lonely and missing people?

Are you bored because you cannot engage in normal activities? Are you overwhelmed with returning to work or school?

Being able to drill down to the specifics will help you better address how you’re feeling.

You’ll be less likely to say everything is stressful right now, and more likely to say this one area of my life is the most stressful and I can do something about that.

Stay educated on the most up-to-date facts about the pandemic from reputable sources like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and World Health Organization.

Limit your exposure to other media sources that may be creating more fear, worry, and anxiety. Reassure yourself that you are doing whatever you can to keep yourself and others safe according to these sites.

Re-emerge slowly and intentionally where and when you can, physically, mentally, and emotionally.

Finally, so much feels out of our control at the moment. Try making a list of things that you have some control over. Sleep, quality time with immediate family, fresh air and sunshine, cooking a favorite meal, journaling, taking your multivitamin every day. These don’t need to be new things that you’re adding in. Now is not the time to count on perfecting a brand new routine!

Simply see if you can stick with the things you naturally do that bring you joy. That may be all it takes to keep a little extra fuel in your tank.

Emily Betros is a licensed clinical social worker, certified health coach, and owner of Reclaiming Health, LLC. She specializes in body image support, eating disorders, anxiety, life transitions, mindfulness, and women’s issues. More info: www.reclaiminghealth.net.

moxiemagazine.net

CANCER AND THE

#MORSEFORCE

Candidate Christine Morse’s Life-Changing Fight Christine Morse didn’t give much thought to a small ache in her left armpit she had discovered in March of 2011. At the time, she had a oneyear-old she had just stopped breastfeeding, and with the aches and odd pains felt with that process of motherhood, this new ache felt like it was just one of those.

At the time, Christine was quite new to the Kalamazoo area, she didn’t have a primary care physician, so when she finally decided to seek out an opinion a few weeks after, things suddenly became more complicated. The ache remained, but she wouldn’t be able to see anyone until after June and as far out as December. She honestly just gave up.

A few more weeks passed, but the ache refused to subside, and instead turned into a pain setting in from her arm down to her elbow. Still without a primary care physician, she headed via suggestion of a friend to the ER. “I was embarrassed, probably scared and in near tears, because I should have had a primary care doctor, but we are here.” An ultrasound in the ER determined her lymph nodes didn’t look right. Now, the general surgeon was involved.

Further examination of Christine’s breast resulted in a pea-sized lump. It was determined at the age of 38, she needed a mammogram. She would also get an ultrasound and biopsy, all in that same day. Now more concerned, she asked her radiologist if she thought it was cancer.

“And she actually looked at me and said, ‘Yes. If this comes back negative, we’re going to be doing more testing because I’m fairly sure that’s what it is.’”

The following day, Christine was positive for HER2-positive breast cancer. Luckily, it was treatable, but a long road lie ahead.

The tumor was inoperable until she had enough chemotherapy to shrink it to an operable size. The Herceptin treatment, used in these particular cases of breast cancer, would be six months of chemo. The first three months were bearable, or as she describes, more like a delayed bad hangover. But the following three

months were more toxic & she very much felt the difference. Entirely unprepared, some days all she could do was lie down.

“ When you get cancer as a young person, it’s really shocking. And people really want to help. Cancer is one of those things that make people feel powerless about what they can do. But they want to do whatever they can.”

Christine is still close with five of the girls she met while a part of the Sigma Kappa sorority at Michigan State University. In the midst of her battle, the women got together and thought about how they could help her through her incredibly tough time. The result: a gettogether debuting pink Livestrong-like bracelet bands that said “#MorseForce.” It was a way to let Christine and her family know they’d be there in any way they could be.

The outpouring of support was overwhelming for her. Moving around the country for her husband’s work with the Navy, she was (and is) an incredibly independent person. She was naturally resistant to having people offer their help, but she truly needed it. Especially on the worst of her treatment days. The #MorseForce stood strong in walking with her at the Breast Cancer walk, walking 30 people deep. People would offer to babysit (she had three children under the age of 11 at the time), make meals, and even give her massages. Anything to help her feel better.

“That’s why you want to give back. Because people have given you so much. So paying it forward was important for me.”

Show of support from the #MorseForce at the Breast Cancer walk

Christine and her family at the MSU Breast Cancer walk Christine began paying it forward when she was asked by a fellow cancer survivors group friend (actually the leader of it), Jennifer Reivett, to be a part of a project coined, The Pink Owl Project. It consisted of 10-12 local Kalamazoo young women sharing their incredibly painful and moving breast cancer stories via essay and photographs, The Pink Owl Project debuted at the Park Trades Center in Kalamazoo during Art Hop 2012, and has made several appearances since.

To learn more, check out eightWest’s feature on The Pink Owl Project on YouTube.

The same effort bled into her candidacy of running in 2018 for County Commissioner, for which she is leaving to pursue a seat in the State House this election season. The idea and pursuit is wholly to make things better for the people in her local community, and also now as a state.

It all supports something that came across strong in her interview as really inspiring her actions in giving back after cancer, with the idea that you only get to do this once. And you should make it count.

In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Christine offers advice for women to keep themselves healthy & aware: • SELF EXAM. Know what feels normal, even with the changes our bodies go through monthly.

• BE YOUR OWN BEST ADVOCATE and trust yourself when you say something is going on, because some doctors have dismissed women’s concerns more often than not.

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newite favor

^

K

alamazoo is so unique and wonderful. We have many amazing locally-owned businesses, and quite a few of them are women-owned! With the current state of things, now is a great time to really support our community & local businesses. I wanted to shine a spotlight on a few of my favorites in the area. If these local business are not already one of your favorites, I hope you might decide on a new adventure downtown to explore more of what Kalamazoo has to offer.

BEE JOYFUL SHOP: Zero Waste Market

www.beejoyfulshop.com

COLORS & COCKTAILS: The Mobile Art Party www.colors-andcocktails.com

Lauren Parker Lasater is the Owner, Founder, and Artist behind

Colors & Cocktails: The Mobile Art Party, her NEW studio, right on the Kalamazoo Mall in downtown Kalamazoo, which is one of my absolute favorites. It has been great watching her grow her company over the years. Colors & Cocktails hosts and teaches groups of eight on up to 20 people, providing them with choices to paint on canvas or drinkable glassware from a variety of locations including the comfort of your own home, any of their public events including restaurants, wineries and breweries, or her studio downtown! Not a painter or artist? No experience is needed, as Lauren and her staff are patient and ready to help you paint whatever your little heart desires. All you need to do is show up ready to paint and have fun! If you are not as interested in painting, Lauren’s retail shop has something for everyone, with items from painted glassware, adorable wrapping paper, cocktail mixes and jewelry to Kalamazoo Candle Company Candles and so much more! Swing by and you may even have the opportunity to meet Lauren’s newest employee, Rosie, her Teacup Poodle.

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Looking for plastic-free options here in Michigan? Jessica Thompson started as a shop on Etsy selling reusable food wraps with the goal of exposing more people to the idea of using sustainable, Earth-friendly materials to store food. Now, her dream of a brick and mortar shop has finally come true! Jessica recently opened her shop, the Bee Joyful Shop, Michigan’s first zero waste market, on the Kalamazoo Mall downtown Kalamazoo. It offers plastic-free alternatives to items you most commonly use for personal or home care including reusable food wraps, tooth brushes, sponges, shampoo and conditioner bars, along with a few other plastic-free options! Teamed with TerraCycle, both the recycling company and Jessica’s shop help community members collect and recycle difficult-to-recycle waste through the Zero Waste Box program.

moxiemagazine.net

MAMALEELU COLD BREW

www.mamaleelucoldbrew.com

Maliesha Pullano, the

founder of Mamaleelu Cold Brew, is one of my absolute favorite coffee blends here in Kalamazoo. She is also one of the sweetest people you will ever meet. And as an already fan of her cold brew, after visiting her at the Kalamazoo Farmers Market, I fell in love with her coffee. Maliesha’s story: After having been laid off, she had difficulties trying to find a way to support a family of

three as a single mother. So instead, she used her passion for coffee that blossomed into Mamaleelu Cold Brew in 2014.

Her personal mission? Liberate as many women as possible from poverty.

Mamaleelu Cold Brew has won several awards, a pitch competition, and quoted in ‘Roast’ magazine. You can find her cold brew at the Kalamazoo Farmers Market and various grocery stores around the area. And don’t worry, if you can’t find it, they are gaining new stores and markets, and her line of products continues to grow, with the most newly released whole or ground coffee beans!

THE PERFECT PUCKER

www.theperfectpucker.com

KNEADING SERENITY MASSAGE THERAPY www.kserenity.com

Massage has often been known to reduce things like anxiety, fatigue, migraine pain, muscle cramps and enhance sleep. Bonus – it’s incredibly relaxing! And who doesn’t love to relax, unwind and be pampered?

That brings us to Christine Santos, a massage therapist who has been soothing strained, damaged muscles in the Portage and Kalamazoo area for over 22 years. Her office is located in Portage, but she travels for home massages or to assisted living for her services like massage treatments.

Christine’s training includes, but is not limited, to sports therapy, neuromuscular and advanced deep tissue and trigger point therapy. She also offers cupping, lymphatic vibrational therapy, and if you visit the office for a session, she offers infrared sauna sessions. And she will soon be adding to her list of training: Corrective Exercise Specialist and Lymphedema Therapist. While advocating/ educating her community and as far as she can reach about Lymphedema and Lipedema, Christine loves spending time participating in community events and promotions to raise money towards hospice massage. Christine is wonderful at helping you find the best course of treatment for your ailments and looks forward to helping you all reach your goals in living a healthier life. Also keep a lookout for her new wellness program coming this fall!

For years Founder Valencia Scott suffered from dry skin on her lips. Her answer to the problem when nothing worked? Making her own lip exfoliant! Not long after creating her very first product in 2006, customers were asking for additional skincare products. Creativity took over, inspiring her to jazz up her recipe by blending in organic oils, testing different formulations, and even consulting pharmaceutical experts.

This ultimately yielded her first signature product, The Perfect Pucker Lip Exfoliant! Since then, The Perfect Pucker has expanded its line to include both products for men and women. Her products for women include lotions, lip balm and exfoliants, lipstick, lip gloss and fragrance.

Her men’s line, ML143, includes face and beard wash, face moisturizer, beard oil, body lotion and balm.

All of her products are paraben free, dye free, cruelty free & hand-crafted right here in Kalamazoo by Valencia herself. Stay tuned for kits & gift sets coming this holiday season!

Rachel Kirtley has worked in all levels of the food industry for over a decade. She is currently a Social Media Influencer, Content Creator and Restaurant Reviewer. You can visit her at thekalamazoofoodie.com

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|

RESTAURANT REVIEW

|

South Haven Brewpub

HOURS: Sun 11A–11P • M–W 11A–10P • Th 11A–11P • Fri–Sat 11A–12A 515 Williams St, South Haven | southhavenbrewpub.com

A

s we begin to step out of summer and into cooler days, I decided it was time to make a trip to the lakeshore while there was still some warmth in the air. I found a friend that was up for a day trip, and we hit the road to South Haven.

There wasn’t really a plan of what to do, but as soon as we pulled into the downtown area, we decided to try the SOUTH HAVEN BREWPUB. Upon arrival, it was mostly outdoor seating and masks were required (due to COVID-19 Michigan requirements) until you were seated at a table.

South Haven Brewpub is South Haven’s first brewery and they take a lot of pride in the beer they make. A lot of their beer names reflect nearby locales, such as Black River Brown, Toes in the Sand, & Pier Head.

As it was a warm, sunny day, with an umbrella to shade our table, a cold beer sounded like a delicious accompaniment.

The brewery’s Not Your Grandma’s Cookie sounded right up my alley. It was a light stout with hints of oatmeal and chocolate, with a strong peanut butter finish. Cold and delicious! My co-traveler enjoyed her light and refreshing Lemon Shandy, their BTBL Pale Ale with lemon flavor added.

When I’m at a brewery, I have a difficult time NOT ordering something with beer cheese, so I ordered their BEER CHEESE & PRETZELS, made using their own Black River Brown ale. The soft pretzels come in medium sized nuggets – perfect for sharing. This batch was a little doughier than nuggets prior, but in the best way possible. The cheese was so good, we had considered asking for more pretzels so we could finish it. Ultimately, it was decided to save room for our entrees.

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My friend was ecstatic when her CAJUN SHRIMP TACOS arrived at our table, and I must admit I was a little green with envy.

Her plate held three tacos wrapped in flour tortillas with the amazingly seasoned shrimp, spicy slaw, topped with a chipotle aioli and sprinkle of cilantro. A side of tortilla chips and salsa provided a finishing touch. She loved and ate most of it, and with such a good amount of food, there were some leftovers to take home.

My jealousy faded when my VEGGIE PIZZA made it to the table. The pizza had a nice fluffy crust, flavored with garlic butter.

I was delighted with the piled veggie toppings including red onions, green peppers, mushrooms and black olives.

Four large slices made for a great size, and landing myself leftovers of the other half of a yummy pizza for later!

South Haven Brewpub is very casual, but that doesn’t mean their food or beer at all falls short. I was very impressed and they provided a great lunch for our visit! If you need to stop for a meal or a cold drink in Downtown South Haven, this is one place to stop. Bring the kids, as they do offer a kid’s menu, and it’s a fun place to take the family. Indoor seating is also offered, with at least six feet between tables in observance of social distancing. All servers were wonderful & wore masks at all times.

BEER CHEESE & PRETZELS

CAJUN SHRIMP TACO

I plan to return! South Haven Brewpub has great beer, great food & a fun atmosphere!

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

VEGGIE PIZZA

moxiemagazine.net

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

Apple Butter Pork Chops 4 boneless pork chops Salt and pepper 6 tablespoons butter divided 1 (30 oz) jar apple butter, divided (more if desired) 4 apples cored and sliced.

No need to peel them.

4 tablespoons brown sugar, packed 2 teaspoons chili powder

2/3 cup heavy cream

Cheesy Potato Casserole 2- 12 oz packages frozen cubed hash browns,, thawed

Place your potatoes in a colander.

Let set until thawed and drained.

1 can Cream of Chicken Soup

Combine sour cream, soup and butter in a bowl. Mix it well. Add salt, onion and cheese to this mixture and mix until all combined.

2 cups sour cream

1/2 cup butter, melted 1 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon onion powder

2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded 2-3 cups corn flakes, crushed 1/2 cup butter, melted

Add potatoes to mixture and stir until all combined. Place in 9x13 pan.

Sprinkle on butter covered crushed corn flakes.

Bake uncovered at 350° for 40-50 minutes.

Season both sides of each pork chop with salt and pepper.

Melt 4 tablespoons butter over medium high heat in a large skillet. Add the pork chops and cook each side for 3 minutes.

Place pork on a plate and allow to rest while you cook the apples.

Using the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the apple slices and allow to cook until soft, about 5 minutes. Pour in 1/2 of the jar (15 ounces) of apple butter (you can use a bit more if you want, but it does get pretty sweet), brown sugar, and chili powder. Stir to combine. Add in the cream and continue to stir. Bring to a light boil.

Add the pork chops, pushing aside the apples to make sure the bottoms of each pork chop are touching the skillet. Spoon a tablespoon of apple butter onto each side of each pork chop as you cook.

Cook each pork chop for about 4 more minutes or each side, adding a tablespoon of apple butter to each side as you cook. Cook until pork is cooked through to your liking.

Serve hot with the apple mixture spooned over the pork.

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Flavors of Fall Sweet Potato Dumplings Dumplings:

1 can Pillsbury Flaky Layers Biscuits 1 32- oz can of sweet potatoes

1 teaspoon cinnamon

Sauce:

1 stick of butter 1 cup of sugar

1 cup of brown sugar 1 cup water

Dumplings:

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.

Drain the canned sweet potatoes and add them into a medium sized mixing bowl. Sprinkle cinnamon over the sweet potatoes and mash them evenly with a fork.

Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts 1 1/2 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and cut in half through the core 4 oz. bacon, sliced 1/4 inch thick 1/4 cup olive oil 1 1/2 teaspoon. kosher salt 1/2 teaspoon. freshly ground pepper 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar reduction Preheat the oven to 400 degrees.

Place the Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet, including any of the loose leaves.

Grease a large baking dish. Take one biscuit and split it into two equal parts. Flatten each biscuit into a 4-inch circle and place one half in the baking dish making room for 8 dumplings and reserving the other half for later to place on top. Continue this process for all 8 dumplings.

Place a generous spoon full of the sweet potato mixture onto each biscuit placed on the bottom of the baking dish. Take the remaining top biscuit half and place on top of the dumpling. Pinch the edges with your fingers to fuse the edges of the dumpling together. Continue for all 8 dumplings.

Sauce:

In a small sauce pan over medium-high heat, melt the butter. Add the sugar, brown sugar and water. Bring to a boil and reduce heat to medium. Let simmer for 2 to 3 minutes and remove from heat. Pour sauce over dumplings and place into the oven. Bake for 30 minutes.

Cut the bacon into 1/2-inch dice and add to the pan. Add the olive oil, the 1 1/2 teaspoon salt and the 1/2 teaspoon pepper and toss with your hands.

Spread out the mixture in a single layer.

Roast the Brussels sprouts until they’re tender and nicely browned and the bacon is cooked, 20 to 30 minutes, tossing once at the 20-minute mark.

Remove pan from the oven, drizzle immediately with the balsamic vinegar reduction and toss again. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper. Serve hot.

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moxiemagazine.net

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