Create Joy - December 2018 by Moxie Magazine

R BE EM

8 EE 201 FR

C DE

Festive Holiday Recipes

Look Who’s Talking The Parker Sisters

Create Joy Essential • Entertaining • Enlightening • WomensLifeStyleKazoo.com

RE AC SE CE R P N VA TIN O TI G W O ! NS

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OB-GYN, P.C. is partnering with St. Luke’s Diaper Bank for the

3nd Annual Holiday

Diaper Drive!

The National Diaper Bank Network tells us that: ⁕ 1 in 3 U.S. families report suffering from diaper need. ⁕ Government assistance programs do NOT cover diapers. ⁕ Diaper need impacts physical, mental and economic well-being of children and parents. ⁕ Diapers can cost $70-$80 per month. ⁕ Babies need 6-10 diapers a day. ⁕ Without diapers, babies cannot participate in early childhood education programs. ⁕ Diaper banks help meet diaper need by providing diapers to nearly one million infants and toddlers each year. Throughout the month of December, OB-GYN, P.C. wants to collect as many diapers AND wipes as possible for mothers and families in our community. Diapers are not a gift; they are a necessity. Every baby deserves to have their basic needs met! Please help us meet this need so we, as a community, can raise happy, healthy children. DIAPERS AND/OR WIPES CAN BE DROPPED OFF AT: OB-GYN, P.C., 2854 South 11th Street, Kalamazoo, MI 49009 If you need more information, please call 269-345-6197 ext 270 or email KLedlow@obgynpc.com or visit www.stlukesdiaperbank.org.

Thank you for helping us make a difference right here in Kalamazoo this Holiday Season.

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

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

December 2018

The People Who Make It Happen... Publisher: Darlene Mohr dcmohr@wlskazoo.com

LIFE

8 8 Ways to Enjoy a Stress Free Holiday

STYLE

12 Holiday Fashion Trends 25 Tis the Season… to Be Merry, Carefully

FOOD & DRINK

6 5 Secrets to Brewing the Perfect Cup of Coffee 14 Festive Holiday Recipes from Our Family to Yours - Peppermint Mexican Cocoa - Barbecue Jalapeno Poppers - Chicken Breast Supreme - Cheesy Potatoes - Virginia’s Green Beans - Snowball Cake 20 Holiday Cheer(s)! - Winter Bourbon Smash - Cranberry Moscow Mule - The Grinch

LOOK WHO’S TALKING 10 The Parker Sisters

16 GIFT GUIDE

CROSSROADS MALL

Editor: Heather Dombos hdombos@wlskazoo.com Contributing Writers: Erica Shier Kelly Duggan Mary Beth Lyons Heidi McCrary Ashley Carter Youngblood Katie Shank Sales Manager: Suzannah Zerbe szerbe@wlskazoo.com Layout & Design: Alicia Pauwels acarlston@wlskazoo.com Photography: K. Redmond Photography fb/kredmondphotography

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

Administrative: Patty Clifford pclifford@wlskazoo.com Contact Us: 269-350-5227 Sales Info: 269-365-8254 By Mail: Greater Kalamazoo Women’s LifeStyle P. O. Box 2284 Portage, MI 49081-2284 By Email: info@wlskazoo.com editor@wlskazoo.com sales@wlskazoo.com Websites: WomensLifeStyleKazoo.com WomensLifeStyleKazooExpo.com KzooFamilyExpo.com

LEARN & DO

18 Keep Your Natural Tree Fresh This Christmas 24 Refresh Your Holiday Décor 26 Reader’s Lounge

WLSK Proudly Supports

COMMUNITY NEWS &HAPPENINGS

22 Gift Ideas 27 Calendar

December 2018

WomensLifeStyleKazoo.com

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FROMTHEPUBLISHER

“

Our hearts grow tender with childhood memories and love of kindred, and we are better throughout the year for having, in spirit, become a child again at Christmastime. - Laura Ingalls Wilder

think Laura had it absolutely right! I, for one, still become childlike when the holiday season rolls around. I find myself a little breathless when surrounded by glittering decorations, sipping on some hot chocolate and eating a Gingerbread Man. And if there is a magical misting of white snow blanketing the ground? It’s simply icing on the cake. Why not give yourself the gift being young at heart this holiday season? As women our tendency is to focus on working hard to ensure that our loved ones have a magical, perfect Christmas. While that’s certainly admirable, we also need to schedule in some time to relax, giggle and enjoy this time of year with the wonder of a child. Everyone here at WLSK is gearing up for our own family Christmas. As we shared our excitement

about the upcoming season, we realized that it was the beloved family traditions that we looked most forward to enjoying. In that spirit, we decided to share some of our favorite family recipes with you. You’ll find our family recipes for Christmas dinner on pages 14 and 15. We hope you and your loved ones will enjoy them. Who knows? Maybe they’ll even become part of your favorite traditions. We know that holiday shopping can be stressful and little overwhelming so we’ve done some of the legwork for you. We visited The Crossroads Mall recently and were impressed with the number of new stores and restaurants that have opened. Be sure and check out just a sampling of their gift ideas on pages 16 and 17. Ready, set…shop till you drop! Happy Holidays to all of you! May your days be filled with peace, joy, love and laughter. Till Next Year!

- Darlene

Merry Christmas from your WLSK Family!

Secrets to Brewing the Perfect

Cup of Coffee at Home

A cup of steaming rich coffee is one of life’s simple pleasures, especially if you have some extra time to linger over those roasty aromas and flavors at your favorite coffee shop. The good news is you don’t have to be a barista to achieve the same results at home. Apply these expert secrets to unlocking the full potential of your favorite coffee bean to make perfectly balanced yet flavorful java. Even if you elect to try just one or two of these tips, getting your daily caffeine fix will feel more like a special weekend treat.

go with the freshest 1 Always beans you can find Coffee connoisseurs will differ as to whether a light roast or dark tastes best, but all agree on the power of starting with fresh beans. Before you measure and grind, give them a visual inspection. They should be glossy in appearance, keeping in mind that darker roasts give off more sheen than light roast or decaffeinated beans do.

2 Achieve balance with a food scale

As a rule, you’ll need 2 tablespoons of ground coffee for every 6 ounces of water used. However, if you have a food scale, getting into the habit of weighing beans instead of using the scoop ensures more consistent results. As a rule, 2 tablespoons amounts to

The Magic of Christmas Never Ends & its greatest gifts are Family & Friends

December 2018

10.6 grams; from there, you may adjust up and down slightly until you find the perfect balance that pleases your taste buds. Because freshly ground beans are more flavorful than stale, take care to grind only what’s needed per batch.

3 Unlock the magic of spices

To curate your cup with unique flavors and aromas, try adding Simply Organic Pre-Brew Spice Blends, a pre-cut blend of organic spices, to your ground coffee beans before brewing. Whether you opt for the warmth of ginger and clove in Pumpkin Spices or rise and shine with the cinnamon and anise in Awaken Spices, any brewing method makes a perfectly spiced cup free of sugars and additives. To discover how to create your favorite coffee-shop treat right at home, visit SimplyOrganic.com.

5 Serving up the perfect cup

Coffee is best when enjoyed freshly brewed. At this point, you can further customize your cup by adding sweetener and dairy. To achieve a more unique flavor, experiment with honey, agave nectar or even maple syrup. To create a latte at home, you don’t need an espresso machine to make frothed milk. Everyday kitchen tools like a blender, a whisk or a mixer can help you achieve the thick, foamy texture you love. In every coffee bean, rich and complex flavors await. Put these tips into practice and you’ll soon be sipping your way to bliss.

4 Not too hot!

If you’re using a coffee maker, you won’t have much control over water temperature. If you’re using a French press or pour-over coffee maker, keep in mind that boiling water makes bitter coffee. When you put the kettle on, use a thermometer to make sure the water gets to a range of 195 to 205 degrees Fahrenheit before it makes contact with the ground coffee. Finally, if you’re using tap water, consider filtering it first. Things like chlorine and water softening agents can get in the way of those rich, subtle flavor profiles.

WomensLifeStyleKazoo.com

GR A N D OPENI NG A WHOLE NEW WAY TO DO PHYSICAL THERAPY

Saturday, January 5 11 AM–3 PM Sunday, January 6 1 PM–4 PM

• Free gift bags (while supplies last) • Demonstration of diagnostic ultrasound • Free 10-minute PT consultations • Adaptive yoga demonstrations Kathy Berglund DSc, FAAOMPT, OCS, COMT, ATCr

• Chair massages • Guided meditations • Peaceful lifestyle consultations • Nutritionists • Food and beverages available

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137 EAST BRIDGE ST, PLAINWELL 269-271-6006

Fresh-from-the-Deli Sandwiches Made with Boar’s Head meat & cheeses and MacKenzies’ bread · Salads · Smoothies · Fresh Pressed Juices

L O C A L D E L I V E R Y AVA I L A B L E !

your community music school

Study and learn in a positive and supportive atmosphere with professional, enthusiastic, experienced, university-trained teaching artists. Music instruction for all ages and abilities; need-based financial assistance available. • Private instruction on strings, woodwinds, brass, piano, guitar, percussion, voice, theory and composition • Workshops and Masterclasses • Crescendo Fiddlers • Chamber Ensembles for strings and winds • Crescendo Community Voices for teens and adults with mental and/or physical challenges • Orff Studio group classes for ages 5 and up • Music Together® classes for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers • Epic Broadwary! musical theater camp begins in June Member • Gift certificates available! Epic Center, Suite 12, 359 S. Kalamazoo Mall information@crescendoacademy.com www.crescendoacademy.com 269/345-6664

Greater Kalamazoo MAGAZINE | EXPO

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December 2018

Holiday

8 Ways to Enjoy a Stress Free

Practice gratitude. Pause with your family to recognize and appreciate the abundance we all enjoy. Being thankful will make every moment that much sweeter. - Mary F.

Hire a personal assistant or concierge to help do your shopping, wrapping and mailing. It’ll save you time and ensure you are better able to enjoy the holidays. - Mary Beth L.

Shop early. Buy a gift or two each week, wrapping as you go, to avoid the last minute scramble. - Megan R.

Say no. You don’t have to attend every event to which you’re invited. Leave some margin in your schedule to enjoy the simple pleasures of the season. - Erica S.

Delegate the tasks you don’t enjoy. Let your spouse do the wrapping, buy the Christmas treats at the grocery store and skip traditions that don’t bring you joy. - Michelle K.

Don’t try to live up to external standards. Talk to your loved ones, find out what they value most and focus on those. - Elizabeth T.

Host a baking party. Each person brings the ingredients for her favorite holiday recipe and leaves with a variety of treats. It’s much more fun to bake with friends! - Summer L.

Be mindful. This magical season only comes once a year and before you know it, it’ll be gone. Pause to enjoy the crisp snow, twinkling lights and delicious food while you can. - Patty C.

“We have to sniff out joy. Keep your nose to the joy trail.” - Buffy Sante-Marie

December 2018

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Greater Kalamazoo MAGAZINE | EXPO

December 2018

LOOK WHO’S TALKING

The Parker Sisters

“Our motivation for starting Sisters in Business was to create a space to bring women of color entrepreneurs together.

amily has always been of paramount importance in the Parker family, so when Nicole decided to do something about the lack of support faced by women of color in the business community, her sisters Alisa, Tiffany and Teleshia were quick to join her efforts. In 2017 the Parker sisters launched “Sisters in Business” in an attempt to create a safe space for women of color entrepreneurs, aspiring entrepreneurs, innovators, thought-leaders and creatives to network, strategize and build. They work toward this goal by building a community fund through pitch competitions, grant, scholarships and awards. The money raised through their efforts is used to invest in the businesses of the members of “Sisters in Business”. The four Parker sisters were born and raised in the Kalamazoo area by their parents, Charles Parker and Crystal Cunningham, who always stressed the value of the bonds of family. Their brothers, Matthew and Calvin, are significantly older than the sisters, who are two, four and six years apart. The sisters have always been close, and though they argue and have their share of disagreements like any family, they work extremely well together. They credit this, in part, to their mother who often told them, “Your sister is all you have. When we are gone, your sister is going to be there so always cherish her.”

Not only is the family a close-knit one, it is one that values education, achievement and civic duty. Each sister is highly educated and successful in her own right. ALISA, the oldest, has a BA from Fisk University, an MBA from Western Michigan University and earned a Juris Doctorate from WMU Cooley Law School. She is the Managing Attorney for Legal Services of South Central in Battle Creek and is the Co-Founder of ANP Consulting. TIFFANY received her certifications in Graphic Design from Kalamazoo Valley Community College and is the owner of Above

December 2018

WHAT ARE YOUR FAVORITE MOVIES? ALISA-The Heat TIFFANY- Anything with Sandra Bullock (except Premonition) TELESHIA-The Heat NICOLE-The Lion King WHAT IS YOUR GO-TO COMFORT FOOD? ALISA-Tacos TIFFANY-Chinese Food TELESHIA-Twinkies and Peach Nehi NICOLE-French Fries DO YOU HAVE ANY HOBBIES OR UNUSUAL INTERESTS? ALISA-Reading TIFFANY- Collecting Converse Taylor shoes and traveling just to eat TELESHIA- “I secretly like anime and Asian sitcoms” NICOLE-Traveling and trying new things & Beyond Graphic Design. TELESHIA earned an Associate’s Degree in Marketing from KVCC and her Cosmetology degree from Chic Beauty School. She owns and operates Teleshia’s House of Styles. NICOLE, the youngest of the women, received her BA from Aquinas College and her MA from George Mason University and is the Co-Founder of ANP Consulting.

As busy as these women are, they could be excused for focusing solely on their own lives and businesses, but they are driven to give back to their community and invest in the women around them. American Express OPEN’s 7th Annual State of Women-Owned Businesses Report showed that businesses owned by women of color have increased an incredible 467 percent since 1997, an impressive statistic. One study even showed that there are as many as 800 business started per day by black women in this country The concern of the Parker sisters, however, is that these women, who are already achieving success through their own blood, sweat and tears, still face barriers when it comes to finding the support, financing and investments they need to take their companies to the next level.

Alisa shares, “Our motivation for starting Sisters in Business was to create a space to bring women of color entrepreneurs together. To debunk the myth that businesses owned by women of color in Kalamazoo don’t exist and show that, even in Kalamazoo, our businesses are in line with national statistics. We also started Sisters in Business to find way that we could resource & fund women of color in business. In addition to creating space, we found that it is important to be the solution & take away barriers that are particularly challenging for women of color in business.” Together, the Parker sisters are working to make sure that the thriving business community in their beloved Kalamazoo is as equally welcoming & full of opportunities for women of color as it is for everyone else. Erica Shier is a married mother of four who loves reading, scrapbooking & thrift stores. When she’s not driving her small pack of children around, she spends her time volunteering, writing & trying to keep on top of the laundry.

WomensLifeStyleKazoo.com

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TUNDRA: *Sale price plus tax, title license, $3000 cash back from Toyota to dealer. 2018 Tundra double cab Limited model 8354 VIN JX777068, MSRP $47,887, stock number B3437. ** 0.9% APR financing with approved credit up to 72 months in lieu of $3000 cash back, payments based on $14.28 per $1000 borrowed *** 36 month/30,000 mile closed end lease special, waived security deposit with approved credit, payments based on cap cost of $44,992 with $4690 due at signing plus tax, title, license, .15 cents per mile over fee, sale ends December 31, 2018. TACOMA: *Sale price plus tax, title, license, $210 dealer doc fee, $750 cash back from Toyota to dealer. Tacoma 4x4 SR Dobule cab model 7594 with auto trans, vin km193593 MSRP $33,338, B3649. **36 month/30,000 mile closed end lease special with $750 cash back to dealer plus $4190 due at signing plus tax, title, license, $210 dealer doc fee, waived security deposit with approved credit, cap cost $31,986 .15 cents over mileage fee. ***3.9% APR up to 60 months with approved credit from United Bay credit union, payments based on $18.40 per $1000 borrowed, sale ends December 31, 2018. RAV-4: *Sale price plus tax, title, license, $210 dealer doc fee, $2500 cash back from Toyota to dealer. Model 4432 RAV-4 LE 4X4 VIN jd255469, MSRP $27,688, stock B3673 **36 month/30,000 mile closed end lease special with$1250 bonus cash to dealer plus $4190 due at signing plus tax, tilte, license $210 dealer doc fee, waived security deposit with approved credit, Cap cost $26,718 .15 cents per over mileage fee. ***3.9 % APR up to 60 months with approved credit from United Bay credit union payments based on $18.40 per $1000 financed. sale ends December 31, 2018. HIGHLANDER: *Sale price plus tax, title, license $210 dealer doc fee, $1000 cash back from Toyota to dealer, Highlander LE PLUS 4x4 model 6949 VIN ks925574 MSRP $39,298, stock b3920 **36 month 30,000 mile closed end lease special with $5090 due at signing plus tax, title, license $210 dealer doc fee, waived security deposit with approved credit, Cap cost $36.982 .15 cents over mileage fee. ***(3.9 % APR up to 60 months with approved credit through united bay, payments bassed on $18.40 per $1000 borrowed. sale ends December 31, 2018. CAMRY: *Sale price plus tax title, license, $210 dealer doc fee, $750 cash back from Toyota to dealer. 2019 Camry L model 2514, VIN KU693105 MSRP $25,168, Stock B3179 ** 36 month 30,000 mile closed end lease special, $3890 due at signing plus tax, title, license, $210 dealer doc fee, waived security deposit with approved credit, Cap cost $23,734 .15 cents over milage fee. ***3.9% APR up to 60 monthin with approved credit from United Bay Credit union, payments based on $18.40 per $1000 borrowed, sale ends December 31, 2018. COROLLA: *Sale price plus tax, title, license, $210 dealer doc fee , $2000 cash back from Toyota to dealer Corolla LE model 1852 Auto Trans, VIN KC167709 MSRP $20,383, Stock B3537 **36 month/30,000 mile closed end lease special, $4190 due at signing, Cap cost $19,298 waived security deposit with approved credit, .15 cents over mileage fee. ***3.9% APR up to 60 months with approved credit through united bay credit union, payments based on $ 18.40 per $1000 borrowed, sale ends December 31, 2018.

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Holiday Fashion Trending NOW - Velvet! Dresses! Bling! Stilettos! Blue Jeans! Whatever your holiday plans this season…make a fashion statement with each piece you wear. Textures and color rule! Photography by K. Redmond Photography

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Aldo Cassedy Shoe, $90 Aldoshoes.com

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Missguided Envelope Bag, $22 Missguidedus.com

WomensLifeStyleKazoo.com

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

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Greater Kalamazoo MAGAZINE | EXPO

December 2018

Festive Holiday Recipes From Our Families to Yours

he holiday season brings with it so many of life’s greatest pleasures; time spent with those we love, glittering parties and beautifully wrapped gifts, homes decked out in festive splendor and tables laden with delicious, decadent food. While this time of year is perfect for trying out new recipes and experimenting in the kitchen, most of us have dishes we look forward to eating each and every year.

The staff of Women’s LifeStyle of Greater Kalamazoo decided that there can be no better way to celebrate the nostalgia of the holidays than to share with you some of our very favorite family recipes. You’ll find here an entire meal, from drinks and appetizers to the main dish, sides and dessert, taking the guesswork out of at least one meal during this crazy time of year. From our hearts and homes to yours, we wish you the happiest of holiday seasons.

Peppermint Mexican Cocoa BY SUZANNAH ZERBE |

Makes 6 servings

cups of milk (whole or 2%) ounce milk chocolate candy bar teaspoon ground cinnamon teaspoon vanilla oz 100 proof peppermint schnapps (room temperature) 6 peppermint sticks, for serving Whipped Cream, for serving

4 4 1 1 9

Pour milk into saucepan. Add the chocolate and stir over medium heat until chocolate is melted, being careful not to let it boil. Remove from heat, whisk in the cinnamon and vanilla. Pour into 6 cups. Add whipped cream, 1.5 ounces of peppermint schnapps (per cup) and one peppermint stick (per cup) for stirring.

Barbecue Jalapeno Poppers BY ERICA SHIER

18 Jalapenos 18 Slices thin bacon, cut into halves 8 Ounces cream cheese, softened 1 Green onion, sliced Barbecue sauce Gloves Toothpicks

Preheat oven to 275 degrees. Wearing plastic gloves, cut jalapenos in half, keeping stems intact. Remove seeds and membranes. In a bowl, combine cream cheese, cheddar and green onions. Mix gently. Stuff each pepper half with enough of the cheese mixture to fill it. Wrap bacon slices around each half, covering as much of the surface as you can. Don’t stretch the bacon too much as it will contract as it cooks. Secure bacon to jalapenos with toothpicks. Brush with your favorite barbecue sauce. Bake for 1 hour. Serve hot or at room temperature.

Chicken Breast Supreme BY DARLENE MOHR |

Servings: 6 -10

5 C hicken (skinless & boneless) breasts, cut in half lengthwise 10 Slices dried beef (deli style) 10 Slices lean bacon 1 Can (10 1/2oz.) cream of chicken soup ½ Package (1 oz.) onion soup mix 1 Cup sour cream ½ Cup slivered almonds

December 2018

Place dried chicken on cutting board with dried beef on top. Roll up with chicken on the outside. Wrap bacon strip around the chicken. If needed, secure with wooden tooth pick. Place in baking dish. Mix soup, onion soup mix and sour cream till well blended then pour over chicken. Sprinkle with almonds. Bake 4 hours in slow oven - 250°.

WomensLifeStyleKazoo.com

Snowball Cake BY HEATHER DOMBOS

“This recipe has been passed down through my family for generations & it is always the star of the Christmas dessert table. While this recipe started with a scratch made cake, my Nanny realized that a box mix works just as well, so not only is this cake stunning & delicious, it is also fairly simple to put together.” Cake Ingredients: 1 box Duncan Hines yellow cake mix (you can also use white cake mix) 2 18 ounce jars of pineapple preserves 7 minute frosting: 1 ½ cups granulated sugar 2 egg whites 2 tsp light corn syrup 1 tsp vanilla 1/3 cups cold water salt (pinch)

Garnish: 1 14 ounce bag Baker’s Sweetened Angel Flake Coconut

Prepare cake in two round pans, as directed on box. Let cake cool completely. Slice cakes in two, horizontally – this will give you four separate “layers”. Place first cake on a cake plate, top with a generous amount of pineapple preserves. Continue this layering process until you top with the fourth cake. Prepare 7 minute frosting. Put all ingredients, except vanilla in a double boiler and whisk constantly while cooking over medium-low heat for 5 – 6 minutes. Add vanilla and beat for two more minutes. Generously frost cake with the 7 minute frosting. Coat all sides of frosted cake with sweetened, shredded coconut.

Cheesy Potatoes BY PATTY CLIFFORD

16 hash brown patties (frozen) 2 cans cream of chicken soup 1 bag (8 ounces) shredded cheddar cheese 2 sticks butter 2-3 cups of corn flakes, crushe 8 ounces sour cream

In a 9x13 pan (ungreased) place 2 layers of hash brown patties. Melt one stick of butter and drizzle over the top. In a separate bowl, mix sour cream, cheese and soups. Spread mixture across the patties. Melt the other stick of butter and mix with crushed corn flakes. Spread over the top of the casserole and bake for 1 hour 20 minutes in a 350 degree oven.

Virginia’s Green Beans BY ALICIA PAUWELS

5 c ans french style green beans ½ pkg. bacon 2 c. sugar yellow vinegar 1 large onion, diced salt & pepper

Slice the bacon into ½ inch pieces and brown in a Dutch oven. Halfway through, throw in the diced onion and cook until lightly

browned. Drain three cans of the green beans and add, along with the other two undrained cans of beans, to the Dutch oven. Add the 2 cups of sugar and enough vinegar to cover the beans. Add a little salt and plenty of pepper. Do not stir!! Simmer for a half an hour. You may stir a couple of times while simmering. Serve with a lovely holiday dinner and enjoy!

Greater Kalamazoo MAGAZINE | EXPO

December 2018

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December 2018

No holiday décor is complete without at least one softly glowing candle and we say, the more the merrier! There’s no shortage of new holiday ideas or old favorites at Yankee Candle! Jar Holders ($10 & Up) Candles in Glass ($29.50 & Up) Reindeer $15 Silver Winter Scape $12.99 Frosty – Large $34

Photography by K. Redmond Photography WomensLifeStyleKazoo.com

m all g ift guide Why not pick up a little BLING for that special someone on your list? Luminous Ice Ring ($75) Charms ($35 & Up) Chain Bracelet ($115) Luminous Ice Gift Set ($140) Reindeer Open Bangle (Total Bracelet $225) Snowflake Earrings ($70)

For the hostess or the person who “doesn’t need anything” consider these yummy pasties or pies from Grampa’s! No trip to the U.P. required. Pastys: 6 pack (mix or match) $30. Pies starting at $12 with lots of variety to choose from.

Wilhelmina’s stocks an excellent selection of beautiful oil lamps and wonderful oils. Colorful to look at and delightful to give. Essential oils are $5.00 and oil lamps start at $15.

Looking to add some flavor to the holidays? You will find everything you need for a comforting pot of tea at Infusion. From beautiful teapots and teacups (starting at $20) to the gift sets of assorted teas ($20 - $25) a gift from here will be sure to please. Infused olive oils & vinegars will bring out their inner chef. ($16 - $23)

Christmas Treasures – Polar X Here holiday spirit reigns supreme and it’s contagious. They have special Christmas ornaments for everyone and every event imaginable, starting at $12.99. Looking for something a little unique? Check out their huge selection of Christmas music boxes. Shown is Polar Christmas Village @ $249.99. Greater Kalamazoo MAGAZINE | EXPO

December 2018

Fresh

Keep Your Natural Tree this Christmas!

atural Christmas trees bring an undeniable authenticity to the holiday season. When purchasing a live tree, holiday celebrants, especially those who like to buy theirs in early December, may be concerned about keeping their trees fresh throughout the holiday season. The following tips can help trees last until the final present is unwrapped and the last of the eggnog has been consumed.

BUY FRESH CUT

Whenever possible, celebrants should cut their own trees. This ensures that the tree they bring home is fresh, increasing the chances it will remain so throughout the season. If it’s not possible to cut your own tree, the National Fire Protection Association notes that fresh trees should have green needles that do not come off when touched. Trees that appear to be dried out or those that shed needles when touched should be avoided.

PROTECT TREES ON THE WAY HOME

The Tree Care Industry Association advises consumers to protect their Christmas trees as they transport them home. Wrap it in a plastic wrap so it makes it home damage-free. A damaged tree might not make it through the holiday season.

COURTESY OF MCC

CUT PRE-CUT TREES

Pre-cut trees can make it through the holiday season looking their best, but buyers should request that employees cut as much as two inches off the bottom of the tree before leaving the lot. Once trees are cut, sap begins to seal their base, making it hard for them to absorb water. By requesting that between one and two inches be removed from the bottom of the tree at the time of purchase, buyers are ensuring their trees will be able to absorb the water they’ll need to make it through the season when they get home.

WATER

To prevent the base from drying out, place it in water the moment you get home. Freshly cut trees may initially need the water in their tree stands filled in the morning and then again in the evening. As the season progresses, trees likely won’t need their stands filled more than once per day.

AVOID HEAT

Placing trees away from heat sources, such as radiators, fireplaces, heating vents, and lights, reduces the likelihood that trees will dry out and also reduces the risk of fire.

December 2018

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HOLIDAY CHEER(S)! Winter Bourbon Smash Ingredients 1/2 cup ice (plus more for serving) 2 Tbsp preserves or jam of choice (we went with organic raspberry) 2 Tbsp bourbon 1 Tbsp triple sec 2-3 Tbsp orange juice Orange segments A splash of club soda brightens it up Add ice, preserves, bourbon, triple sec and orange juice to a shaker and shake vigorously for 15 seconds. Pour into serving glass with a few ice cubes & top with a splash of club soda. Garnish with orange slices & enjoy. Repeat for more drinks.

Cranberry Moscow Mule

Ingredients 8 oz ginger beer 1 lime - juiced 1.5 oz vodka 2 tbsp cranberry juice cocktail (the sweet stuff) raw cranberries and lime slices for garnish, optional

Combine all ingredients, and stir. Pour over ice, and serve in a copper mug. Garnish with raw cranberries & lime slices.

The Grinch

Ingredients: 3 oz peach schnapps 3 oz BacardiÂŽ 151 rum 12 oz orange juice 4 oz Sprite soda 3 oz Blue Curacao liqueur Mix in a large pitcher and serve.

December 2018

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December 2018

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December 2018

BY KELSEY MCCRACKEN

Refresh Your Holiday Décor

t’s that time of year where we start to get our holiday décor back out! Many of us pull out the same thing every year, and after awhile, our cherished decorations can grow, well, not so cherished. If this is the case, don’t be hasty and throw everything out; consider the following tips to create a new look with what you already have. What is it about your current décor that you dislike? Is it the color scheme? The dated accents? The way things are placed or arranged? Maybe it’s all of the above, and that’s OK! Once you decide what needs to change, do a little trend research and see what stands out to you; whether it’s a color, pattern, wreath style, etc. Take that inspiration and apply it to your items.

Let’s first take a look at the smaller items such as accents and festive décor. The smaller items we use to fill bookshelves are generally just that: filler. Spice them up with a new look. Spray paint is your best friend; choose a metallic gold or silver or an accent color that fits the style direction you’ve chosen. A little ceramic gnome that was once a background item, spray painted gold is now eye-catching and stylish. Adding height and dimension into your holiday decorations can make all the difference; books are a great way to get the desired look. But we’re making our décor more interesting this year, so don’t just use a stack of books as they are. It’s time to harvest those book

December 2018

covering skills from grade school and choose some wrapping paper that fits your new décor style to wrap them in. Don’t forget to pull out the ornaments that you don’t love anymore, and add some that accent and complement the new design!

“Spray paint is your best friend; choose a metallic gold or silver or an accent color that fits the style direction you’ve chosen. Wreaths are the first thing visitors see when they approach your front door, so make it memorable. Most wreaths have good bones, and we only need to replace some of the accents. If your wreath has faded or frayed floral or ribbon, those need to be the first to go. It’s unbelievable what a new bow and updated floral can

do for a simple wreath, and these items are usually very budget friendly. Arranging your home to fit large holiday décor, like a Christmas tree, can be a struggle. Some homes have one very clear spot, but what about the houses that don’t necessarily have “the perfect spot?” Decide if you want the tree to be seen from outside, or if you’d rather admire it from the sofa snuggled up with some hot cocoa. If your furniture allows a new living room layout to accommodate the tree, you may find that you prefer it when the holiday season is over! If you’re still unsure on what décor or layout to choose, hiring an interior designer can be a costefficient way to ensure you get what you want on the first try, and give you peace of mind to concentrate on more important things this holiday season!

Kelsey is an interior designer with a passion for historical home preservation and mixing multiple colors and textures in the spaces she designs for her clients.

WomensLifeStyleKazoo.com

Tis the Season… to Be Merry, Carefully BY KELLY DUGGAN

To gain or give respect is the role and goal of etiquette and manners for today’s world. Respect is honoring the position of another. Therefore, as fellow etiquette consultant Gloria Peterson of Global Protocol says, “if I say Merry Christmas and you respond with your preferred season’s greeting (e.g. Happy Hanukkah), we are good!” It is a wonderful way to share our holiday preference and at the same time honor the season. As we enter the holiday season, here are a few additional tips on commonly asked questions and observed mistakes in the business social setting:

Kindly respond. Don’t miss responding to a

requested RSVP. Your host is planning food, venue space and seating.

Dress for success. Yes, dress for success…

even at an office holiday party that is held out of the office and after hours. You can easily dress up the mood of your look with a change of accessories: earrings, necklace, dressy clutch bag, or glitzy shoes for women and a festive tie, shirt or dinner jacket for men. Complete your look with well-groomed/styled hair and finished make-up.

Don’t fail. Arrive on time and dress appropriately for the venue.

Introductions. Limit awkward moments by

remembering to introduce your significant other to the host and other guests when attending social events.

Gifts. Gift giving is not outdated and is an easy way

to say “you/your business is important to me.” These gifts may run from standard holiday gifts that you’d send to customers to more individualized gifts. Know your office policies and use them as a guideline.

Business is business. The number one mistake is forgetting that you’re there for business! While it’s okay to relax and have fun, it’s easy to get too relaxed. Knowing the company culture and your own personal values and career goals will help you find the fine line between appropriate and inappropriate.

Cordial dining. The dining experience should allow you to connect and spend time with your colleagues and business associates. To do this you need to be able to focus on the people seated with you. To drink or not to drink (alcohol, that is). If you’ve been in the work world for any length of

time you’ve probably encountered the individual who chooses to drink to excess. Not recommended, even if your employer or boss is leading the way. Know your limits. No one is immune to the hazards of socializing while under the influence of too much alcohol.

Note of thanks. Send a hand-written thank you note within the first 48 hours but know that a tardy thank you note is better than no thank you note at all. Happy Holidays or Merry Christmas.

Merry Christmas still dominates modern vernacular, despite a push over the past decade to move to a more universal “Happy Holidays.” Do your homework, know your audience and let it guide you to a respectful conclusion.

MAY YOUR SEASON BE MERRY!

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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December 2018

READER’S

Rosie, A Detroit Herstory

Suggestions brought to you by Gloria Tiller, owner of Kazoo Books. Kazoo Books features used and new titles. The staff is experienced & can help you with suggestions. Come visit them at 2413 Parkview. There is plenty of parking in the back.

by Bailey Sisoy Isgro

by Joe Grimm

The Faygo Book

Kingdom of the Blind: A Chief Inspector Gamache Novel

A story of heroism set during World War II, this new release from Wayne State University Press takes place in Detroit, where women were doing the jobs left empty by the men serving in the armed forces. They built airplanes, worked with machinery and banded together in factories to advance the war effort. The format works for young students as well as adults who want an easy overview of an amazing part of our local history.

Who hasn’t heard of Faygo Pop? Most of us remember it fondly as the beverage of our childhoods, but many don’t realize that Faygo is a Detroit company. Founded by two Russian immigrants in 1907, this company and family have spanned three generations and survived depressions, wars and hard economic times. Faygo is still going strong and has outlived forty other bottlers in the area. Part business story with insight on how to grow a business, part Michigan history lesson, this is a nostalgic look at the drink that defined many of our childhoods.

Fans of Inspector Gamache will love his next case. An immensely entertaining detective, who lives in Three Pines area near Quebec, is the creation of award-winning writer, Louise Penny who once again provides a page-turning mystery that holds us captive. If you haven’t yet tuned in to this popular series, begin by reading the first book in the series Still Life. Recommended for any mystery reader.

21 Lessons for the 21st Century by Yuval Noah Harari

The author of the popular Sapiens has written an interesting and compelling examination of the possible effects of technology on our future. What do we have to look forward to as technology continues to change us? Part of understanding what lies ahead includes looking at our history and seeking to understand how it has formed us into the beings we are now. Harari tackles the big questions about our privacy, working conditions and how to prepare for an ever-changing future.

December 2018

by Louise Penny

The Library Book by Susan Orlean

It seems that many novels written lately have been set in libraries and bookstores. Susan Orlean, author of The Orchid Thief contributes another to the field. On April 29, 1986, a fire at the Los Angeles Public Library damaged hundreds of thousands of books and, thirty years later, questions still remain about how this could happen. The author’s investigation takes us back to the beginning of the library in 1880 and explores the history of these stalwart institutions that inspire our imaginations and love of books to this day.

WomensLifeStyleKazoo.com

Calendar of Events

It’s easy to get listed in our Events Calendar. Our deadline is the 10th of the month prior to publication. Email us at: calendar@womenslifestylekazoo.com. Please type CALENDAR in the subject line. December 1 Fair Trade Holiday Sale Westwood United Methodist Church. 9 am – 3 pm. Come find unique gifts for everyone on your list, curated locally and from across the globe and directly benefitting people living in vulnerable communities. Come, buy, and make your gift “give twice!” Free. 269-344-7165. December 1 Integrative Breathwork Workshop Unwindings, 5466 Holiday Terrace, Kalamazoo 12/1: 2 pm - 5 pm. A musical meditation for insight, emotional healing, creativity & renewal. $40. Pre-registration is required. 269-388-2988. www. AdamczAssociates.com. December 1 National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation Kalamazoo State Theatre. 8 – 10 pm. Spend Christmas with the Griswold family for the fourth annual screening of National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation! Outside The Kalamazoo Mall will be lit up with thousands of lights, and indoors the audience will be warm with laughter and merriment. Mature audience age 13+. $5 College student. $7 Kids under 17. $10 Adult. $1 for every ticket sold is donated to WMU’s Seita Scholars Program. 269345-6500. December 6 – 8 Scholastic Book Fairs Warehouse Sale Kalamazoo County Expo Center, Expo North.

Thurs. 11 am – 7 pm, Fri. 9 am – 7 pm, Sat. 8 am – 4 pm. Large book sale offering deep discounts. Admission is free. For more information call 800-843-0112 or visit scholastic.com/bookfairs/warehouse December 7 Art Hop Various Locations throughout Downtown Kalamazoo. 5 – 9 pm. Art Hop is a free event that features new art exhibits in a fun, casual atmosphere. Numerous galleries and businesses in the downtown area host a variety of artwork. Free. 269342-5059. www.kalamazooarts.com December 7 Crafts, Cocktails, & Confections: Just Paint Paw Paw Playhouse. 7 – 9 pm. Join us for a night of cocktails and canvas hosted by “Just Paint”. Bring a friend or two and create an awesome Winter Canvas painting in this instructor lead class. $40 Ticket includes one (1) Canvas with Paint, one (1) beverage from the bar or a Soft Drink & one (1) Cupcake from the Bakery. Space is limited so get your tickets today! 269-913-4153. https://squareup.com/store/ pawpawplayhouse

DON’T MISS YOUR CHANCE TO BE A PART OF THE

Bridal Guide January 2019

December 7 – 9 Sing We Noel Friday – First Congregational Church, Kalamazoo – 7:30 pm. Saturday – First United Methodist Church, Battle Creek – 3:30 pm. Sunday – First Presbyterian

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 8 8am-3pm Upcoming Saturday Markets: Jan12 & Mar 30 Check Out Our Market on Tuesdays & Wednesdays Too! 8am-2pm, Open October-March Kalamazoo County Expo Center • 2900 Lake St. • 269-383-8778 www.kalamazooexpocenter.com

Greater Kalamazoo MAGAZINE | EXPO

Reach your target market including the bride, her friends, Mom and other family members. Our special (lowest!) pricing allows you an affordable way to present your products and services.

Contact Women’s LifeStyle Kalamazoo to get this deal. 269-350-5277 info@wlskazoo.com

December 2018

AFTER THE HO LI DAYS

CE LE B RAT E W IT H U S

December 8 Holiday Kalamazoo Indoor Flea Market Kalamazoo Count Expo Center. 8 am – 3 pm. Special Holiday Market! Come check out the market for some great deals and great merchandise! Choose from new and used items, antiques, handcrafted items, seasonal items, and much more! 269-3838778. visit www.kalamazooexpocenter.com

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FEB 2, 2019! .

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TICKETS GO ON SALE NOVEMBER 26 5-8PM • VIP GETS IN AN HOUR EARLY AT 4PM!

WESTERN MICHIGAN UNIVERSITY (WMU) BERNHARD CENTER FOR ALL WINE NOT INFORMATION, FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK AT: WINENOTKZOO

A FREE event for the whole family Pregnancy thru age 10 The fun has already started! Find us on Facebook for our pre-event giveaways.

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50 + Exhibits Sunday, Feb. 17, 2019 Magic Show 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. Face Painting Radisson Plaza Hotel Drum & Dance Princesses + Superheroes Sponsors: Door Prizes Live Music Bounce House Art & Performance Mascots & Characters

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Church, Marshall – 3:30 pm. A Holiday Celebration of A Cappella Harmony, featuring the Award-Winning Battle Creek Chorus, Quartets, Ensembles, & Holiday Chorus Guests. $10 presale, $15 at the door, $5 12 and under. 269-685-8816. https:// battlecreeksweetadelines.org

December 2018

December 8 Christmas in the Village Downtown Vicksburg. 9 am – 10 pm. Celebrate the season with a day long holiday celebration in Vicksburg. Saturday December 8 from 9:00 am to 10:00 pm. Activities and events for all ages. 9:00 am – 2:00 pm “Quilts, Crafts, Baked Goods and More” Historical Society Fundraiser at the Union Depot Museum. 300 N Richardson. 2:00 pm – 10:00 pm Downtown Activities including Children’s Elf Workshops, Winter Farmers’ Market, Horse Wagon Rides, Shopping, Christmas Night Parade, a reindeer petting zoo, Tree Lighting, Holiday Pub Hop and of course, a visit with Santa. info@vicksburgdda.com December 8 Candy Cane Hunt Homer Stryker Field. 12 – 2 pm. Candy Canes, Crafts, and Santa – what could be better than that! Join the Parks and Recreation Department for the 13th annual Candy Cane Hunt on Homer Stryker Field for fun and Holiday festivities. We will have seasonally themed crafts, food and drink, and drawings for gifts. Free. 269-377-8191. http://kzooparks.org/events December 8 CND Dark Horse Brewery Hike Dark Horse Brewery. 12 – 4 pm. Join CND for a free, guided hike and then an adult libation. We will enjoy a free, guided 4-6 mile hike on paved roads out and back to the Dark Horse Brewery. If hikers wear an elf/Santa hat they can have free admission to the annual 4 Elf Party at the brewery. 269-808-7334. jane_a_norton@ yahoo.com. http://www.northcountrytrail. org/cnd/index.htm. December 8 Holiday Open House Comstock Township Library. 1 – 3 pm. Enjoy holiday cookies, cider, a performance by the Kalamazoo Symphony Orchestra’s String Quartet, meet Mrs. Claus, make a children’s craft, play children’s games, decorate sugar cookies, and see live reindeer. The reindeer will be outside, so, please dress warmly. Please bring your camera, as pictures with Mrs. Claus and the reindeer will be allowed. 269-345-0136.

December 8 Holiday Ice Revue Wings West. 2:30 & 7:30 pm. Join us at Wings West near 9th Street for the annual tradition Holiday Ice Revue presented by the Greater Kalamazoo Skating Association. Skaters from beginner through advanced levels will perform to a variety of holiday songs as well as other themed music in this always excellent production. $12 for students with school ID age 6-18; $12 for Seniors 65+; $20 for adults; Free kids 5 and under. 269978-0118. http://www.greaterkzooskate.org December 8 Barbershop Holiday Concert First Baptist Church. 4 – 6 pm. Kalamazoo’s Mall City Harmonizers Barbershop Chorus, along with the Battle Creek Barbershop Chorus, will be celebrating the Christmas holidays. Donations will be accepted for the Salvation Army. All your favorite Christmas carols will likely be heard in 4-part A-Capella harmony at this concert…an event destined to enliven your holiday spirits! 269-615-8796. www.barbershopharmony.org December 9 Noel: Christmas Around the World Pennfield Performing Arts Center. 3 – 5 pm. You will enjoy an entire concert of Christmas music such as Russian Christmas Music, Suite from The Nutcracker, C’Est Noel!, A Calypso Christmas, An Irving Berlin Christmas, Patapan and much more! Join us for an afternoon of joyful music that will guarantee to put you in the Christmas spirit. $10 for Adults and $5 for Students & Seniors +65. There will also be a 50/50 raffle and a raffle of beautiful Poinsettias. 269-962-2153. December 9 Christmas with John Berry Kalamazoo State Theatre. 7:30 – 10:30 pm. John Berry returns to Kalamazoo State Theatre with his crowd-pleasing Christmas concert. Singer-songwriter, John Berry, rose to stardom on the country charts of the 1990’s with such mega hits as “Your Love Amazes Me,” Standing on the Edge of Goodbye,” and “She’s Taken a Shine.” His annual Christmas tours brighten the holidays for thousands as does his electrifying rendition of “O’ Holy Night.” This is an event is an all ages event. $30 – $42. 269-345-6500. www.kazoostate.com December 11 MASTERMIND Holiday Social Join us at the Fetzer Center for our December MASTERMIND Holiday Social luncheon starting at 11:30am. We will be enjoying great food, fun games and a visit from Mrs. Claus. RSVP by Dec. 11th at: tinyurl.com/ ycg3qm2a | www.wlskmastermind.com December 12 Thriver – Health Talks Borgess Health & Fitness Center – 3025 Gull Rd, 5:30 - 7:00 pm, Monthly – 2nd Wednesday. “Improving Your Quality of Life” is a group of people who have had or having health issues and focusing on health for everyone through education. Free and all are welcome. 269-381-1986. mderuyter99@ gmail.com

WomensLifeStyleKazoo.com

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Downsizing & Move Assistance House & Pet Sitting Professional Event & Project Management Personal Assistant

MARY BETH LYONS | OWNER marybeth@asinglerayofhope.com www.asinglerayofhope.com

December 13 Locals on Draught Bell’s Eccentric Café. 8:30 – 11 pm. At Bell’s we love supporting the local Kalamazoo music scene and because of it, we will be featuring a show dedicated to our wonderful Kalamazoo artists each month! Catch our first Locals on Draught show live in action in the Back Room with performances from First Responders, Pariah, and PT Ori. $5, 21+ only. 269-382-2332. https://www. bellsbeer.com/event/back-room-concert/firstresponds-pariah-pt-ori December 14 – 23 Zoolights Binder Park Zoo. 5 – 8:30 pm. Zoo lovers of all ages can share holiday cheer with some of our cold weather loving zoo animals on exhibit and two very special, honored guests...Mr. and Mrs. Claus! Enjoy complimentary carousel rides as snow flies, boogie down to holiday tunes at the popular DJ Dance Party, and express good tidings with some jolly arts & crafts as Binder Park Zoo is transformed into a luminous winter wonderland! http://www.binderparkzoo.org/ December 15 Frankie Ballard’s Country Christmas Kalamazoo State Theatre. 8 – 10 pm. Join us for the 10th and final Country Christmas with Frankie Ballard. This Michigan born singer & songwriter is known for many Billboard chart topping hits such as; “Sunshine & Whiskey,” “Helluva Life,” “Young & Crazy,” “It All Started with A Beer,” and “Cigarette.” $25 - $100. 269-345-6500. www. kazoostate.com December 21 - 23 Cirque Dreams Holidaze Miller Auditorium. Times vary. CIRQUE DREAMS HOLIDAZE is a new cirque adventure, Broadway musical and family holiday spectacular wrapped in one! This incomparable phenomenon features over 300 imaginative costumes, 20 world-class astonishing acts, the finest singers, original music and seasonal favorites. Audiences of all ages will be mesmerized for 2 hours and marvel at soaring acrobatics, gravity defying feats and extravagant theatrical production. 269-387-2300. https://millerauditorium.com/ cirque-dreams-holidaze

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Merry Christmas! December 29 Fake NYE with Joe Hertler & The Rainbow Seekers Kalamazoo State Theatre. 8 – 10:30 pm. Joe Hertler & The Rainbow Seekers will make a sprightly young groove doctor out of anyone. With spectacular energy pulsating from every member of the band, the Rainbow Seekers could illuminate the very chambers of Heaven. Join them in their celebration, and they will take you on a never-ending journey to a place you’ll never be able to describe in words. $25 - $33. 269-345-6500. www. kazoostate.com December 31 New Years Eve Comedy Bash Paw Paw Playhouse. 9 pm – 12 am. Ring in the new year with the comedy of Brad Wenzel. Tickets include a champagne toast at Midnight and a free dessert bar all night! Brad Wenzel is best known for his offbeat, one-liners. His unassuming presence and dry delivery are what set him apart from other comedians. This is a 21 and over show. $25. 269-913-4153. https://squareup.com/ store/pawpawplayhouse December 31 New Years Fest Downtown Kalamazoo – 211 Farmers Ally. 5 pm – 12 am. The Kalamazoo Experiential Learning Center assists in the planning and implementing of New Year’s Fest of Kalamazoo each year. For more information on the performances and locations visit our website! Use this online portal to purchase your admission buttons. Buttons are $8.50 each, which includes the credit card processing fees. 269-388-2830. http://www. newyearsfest.com

Please join us for the December MASTERMIND Holiday Social. We will be enjoying great food, fun games and a visit from Mrs. Claus.

The November MASTERMIND dinner featured an excellent program on Emotional Intelligence. A big thank you to our guest presenters Darby Fetzer and Mary Woerme from Holtyn & Associates. The meeting was sponsored by Senior Partners, P.A.C.E.

DATE: Tues, December 11 TIME: 1 1:30a – 1:00p WHERE: F etzer Center – WMU COST: $20.00 Register no later than Dec. 7 by 8pm at: tinyurl.com/ycg3qm2a

WOMEN’S EXPO March 1&2

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

Friday 12 - 6, Saturday 9 - 4 Kalamazoo Expo Center

Home Health

Beauty Care Education Entertainment

J A N U A RY 1

Happy New Year! January 4 Art Hop Various Locations throughout Downtown Kalamazoo. 5 – 9 pm. Art Hop is a free event that features new art exhibits in a fun, casual atmosphere. Numerous galleries and businesses in the downtown area host a variety of artwork. Free. 269-342-5059. www. kalamazooarts.com

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