Sizzle & Splash - July 2013

July 2013

Greater Kalamazoo

FREE Cool Off With Cucumbers

Shingles

SizzleThe& Best Splash of Summer E s s e n t i a l • E n l i g h t e n i n g • E n t e r t a i n i n g w w w . w o m e n s l i f e s t y l e k a z o o . c o m

Angie Jackson The Traveling Elixir Fixer

July 2013

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From the Editor Happy July! My name is Erica Shier and I have the privilege of being the Editor of this fine magazine. In addition to the fun I have putting together informative, exciting content for you each month, I am a happy wife and mother to four children. As I write this, summer vacation has officially begun and my little ones are lapping up every moment of relaxation and freedom. For now they are content with lazing around in their pajamas and watching more television than they are normally allowed. But soon I know they will grow tired of aimless afternoons and will begin to clamor for adventure. Picnics, trips to the beach, camping and more…soon we will be looking for ideas that inspire us to build memories and to explore this world of ours.

This month’s magazine is full of ideas to help you squeeze the very best from these fleeting summer months. From hints on packing the perfect picnic to guidelines for selecting a swimsuit to make your July sizzle, we’ve got you covered. We’ve assembled a guide to help you find some of the fantastic foods created by local artisans so you can enjoy a perfect summer full of Michigan’s bounty. We’re excited to tell you about the wet and wild fun you can have a short drive north at Wisner Rents Canoes in Newaygo. As always, we have delicious recipes to try and tips for making your life more fulfilling.

Whether your ideal summer is spent by the beach, in the woods or curled up in air-conditioned comfort with a pile of good books, you’re bound to find something in this month’s edition to help make your summer a whole lot nicer. We’re just sorry we can’t help make it last longer.

Erica

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July 2013

www.womenslifestylekazoo.com

July 2013 Table of Contents

LIFE Seek and You Shall Find...................................................... 28 Movies: Drive-In Nostalgia.................................................. 38 STYLE The 211 For Your Beach Bag................................................... 6 A Swimsuit that Suits You...................................................... 8 Design: An Outdoor Living Room........................................ 10 Makeover Journey.............................................................. 17 Aging-In-Place.................................................................... 30 Simple Summer Entertaining: Tabletops & Picnic Baskets............................................ 34

LEARN Transform Garage Sale Castoffs Into Fun Finds........................ 20 Legally Speaking: Avoiding Internet Scams............................. 22 Mediation Services: Siblings At War.................................... 27 Reader’s Lounge................................................................ 38 FOOD & DRINK Eating and Shopping Locally is Growing................................. 12 Sensational Sides Brownie and Berry Dessert Pizza..................................... 18 Red, White and Blueberry Pasta Salad............................. 18 Greek Tossed Pasta Salad.............................................. 19 S’mores Brownies......................................................... 19 Slow Cooker Hawaiian Style Ribs The Humble, Sexy Chocolate Truffle: Diary-free and Gluten-free........................................................... 26 Cool off...with cucumbers!.................................................. 29 Peachy Tomato Salad with Basil Vinaigrette............................. 35 Miso Glazed Salmon......................................................... 35 COMMUNITY NEWS & HAPPENINGS Summer Fun in Michigan...................................................... 15 Here’s What Happened..................................................... 36 Calendar........................................................................... 36

HEALTH Shingles: The Other Chicken Pox.......................................... 31 Fitness: Can Music Make You Move?.................................. 32 LOOK WHO ’S TALKING Angie Jackson.................................................................... 16 BUSINESS & FINANCE Ad Talk............................................................................. 14 Financial Sauvé................................................................... 24

The People Who Make It Happen...

Publisher: Darlene Clifford dclifford@womenslifestylekazoo.com Editor: Erica Shier editor@womenslifestylekazoo.com Contributing Writers: Kelly Duggan, Emily L. Magyar & Heidi McCrary Sales Manager: Ruth Ann Dibert radibert@womenslifestylekazoo.com Account Executive: Brenda Murphy bmurphy@womenslifestylekazoo.com Account Executive: Pam Stowell pstowell@womenslifestylekazoo.com

Layout & Design: jr4designs, JR Harper Photography: K. Redmond Photography www.facebook.com/kredmondphotography Office Manager: Patty Clifford Contact Us: 269-350-5227 Sales Info: 269-271-1032

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

By Email: info@womenslifestylekazoo.com Website: www.womenslifestylekazoo.com

July 2013

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The 211

for your Beach Bag

by Jennifer Wilson

You’re going to the beach!

Whether you sand lounge with your beau, your girlfriends or just spend a relaxing afternoon by yourself, don’t forget these sun-seeking essentials in your beach bag.

1. Itsy Bitsy Bikini

Be sure to pull out that ONE swimsuit that has you feeling like a sun goddess and won’t leave the evidence of “sick day” at the beach with unsightly tan lines. This summer, blazing hot crimson is all the rage.

2. Sandals Du Jour

Flip-flops are the bread and butter of summer foot wear. Want to make more of fashion statement with your sandals? Try an espadrille. Just be sure to schedule a pedi first and polish those toes with a super sexy bright red hue to coordinate with your bikini.

3. Sexy Specs

Cue Audrey Hepburn, the woman who knew how to wear a pair of sunglasses. You can ignite the same sophistication and glamor with a pair of black, oversized shades. Be sure your glasses block 99 to 100 percent of both UVA and UVB rays.

4. Sunscreen Safeguard

UV rays can prematurely age skin, so choose a waterresistant sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher. Even if you don’t jump in the water to cool down, you are bound to perspire while you bask in the sunshine.

5. Classic Beach Ball

Laying on the beach is restful, but a little exertion on your part is good too. An inflatable beach ball is retrochic and very portable as well. Who knows… this just may be all you need to strike up a conversation with those handsome guys splashing in the surf.

6. Sarong-ing It

Need to quickly throw something over your bathing suit without having to change into a full-on outfit?

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Well, the sarong is the answer you are looking for. It’s convenient, travels well, and is fashionable too.

7. Coif Protector

It’s easy to just grab that convenient baseball cap in a rush to get out the door and into the sun. Instead, find a hat that will protect your face and your locks while you snooze in a chaise lounge by the pool. A floppy and wide brim topper is durable and flexible enough to stuff in your tote, and still give you the shade your face will love you for later.

8. Flavorful Hydration

The sun and heat most certainly will dehydrate you.

Bring plenty of drinking water along for the excursion.

One needs at least 6 glasses of water a day. Flavor it up and add slices of lime or cucumber to sip in style.

9. Reading Opus

Don’t leave home without your Women’s LifeStyle Magazine… or, that used book you just couldn’t put down when treasure-troving at the local thrift store, for that matter. What better way to spend the afternoon than getting lost in a good read?

10. Beach Blanket

Even if you’re not going to the beach and just heading over to the neighbor’s pool to sit in a chaise while envisioning that you’re sunbathing in Playa del Carmen instead, you still need a beach blanket. Lay it over the lounger and protect your bikini as well as your skin from any dirt, germs or chemicals silently joining you.

A simple twin-size sheet will fit neatly into your tote.

11. Pretty Parasol

Umbrellas are widely used in Asia as well as the Middle East for shade. Don some protection from the

sun when it feels like you may have soaked in a little too much of the sun. A brightly colored umbrella will give your skin a break and make your dermatologist happy.

12. Perfect Playlist

Don’t forget your android or iPhone even though you are getting away for the day. It’s handy for a time check, photos and video, as well as offers you tunes to relax, jam or rock out to. Connect with apps like iHeartRadio, Spotify, Pandora, and iTunes.

Playlist Ideas:

The Sounds of Sunshine – Michael Franti & Spearhead California Gurls – Katy Perry feat. Snoop Dogg All Summer Long – Kid Rock Funky Tonight – John Butler Trio All I Wanna Do Is Have Some Fun – Sheryl Crow City Beneath the Sea – Harry Connick Jr. Dancing In The Streets – Martha and the Vandellas Bright Lights Big City – Umphrey’s McGee One Love – Bob Marley Least Complicated – Indigo Girls Drunk On You – Luke Bryan Summertime – Billie Holiday ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Jennifer Wilson is editorin-chief at Women’s Lifestyle Magazine as well as CEO at Grand Development Associates.

She is an advocate of all things Grand Rapids and thrives on assisting nonprofit organizations to be their best.

www.womenslifestylekazoo.com

I NEVER CARED ABOUT

HOSPITAL AWARDS

UNTIL HER MOM NEEDED

HEART SURGERY. When my wife got sick, it changed my whole perspective. I started noticing things I never saw before. And I was obsessed with making sure the place she received care was the best it could be. Suddenly, nothing was more important than learning Bronson is one of America’s 100 Best Hospitals.™ It was exactly what I needed to feel confident. And after our experience at Bronson, I can see why it receives such high honors. More importantly, if anyone in my family ever needs care again, I will feel so much better knowing one of the best hospitals in the nation is on our side.

Learn what makes Bronson Methodist Hospital one of the best hospitals in the nation at bronsonhealth.com/100best.

BRO130006_AB100_MAG_G 1

July 2013 3/26/13

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the miniskirt covers your upper thighs. If you do choose a bikini or tankini top, stay away from boy shorts. They can cut into your thighs and emphasize your hips, the widest part of your body. A third option would be a suit with diagonal stripes. The lines will draw attention to your waist, the smallest part of your mid-section. The sexiest swimsuit for your body type will bring balance to your look, highlighting your chest and minimizing your hips and butt.

Apple Shape

A

Swimsuit

You that Suits

by Azizah Hines photography by Anton Oparin

O

Swimsuit season… either you love it or you hate it. There is no in between.

f course we all love summer. As Michiganders we have so much to look forward to; mornings spent at the Farmer’s Market, outdoor concerts, Sunday barbecues with friends and family, and long summer days spent lounging at the lake. But, when summer rolls around, your New Year’s resolutions are put to the test. Did you do enough squats? How about those crunches? Did you meet your fitness goals? How will you look in your swimsuit?

The bigger question is, “How will you FEEL in your swimsuit?” The most important key in finding the right swimsuit is finding a suit you feel confident in.

Choosing a swimsuit that flatters your body type can make a dramatic difference. You can draw attention to your favorite assets while minimizing the parts you are less willing to flaunt. Most women fit into one of

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the following body type categories; the pear shape, the apple shape, the hourglass, and the straight or athletic body type.

Here are a few tips for finding the perfect swim suit that will flatter your figure.

Pear Shape

If you have a pear shaped body you are smaller through the chest and waist and have fuller hips, butt, and thighs. You can balance your look by choosing a bikini with an embellished top: ruffles, fringe, or a busy print will draw attention to your chest. A dark solid on the bottom will minimize your hips. You could also choose to go with a tankini paired with a miniskirt. The tank lengthens your upper body while

If your shoulders, chest, and waist are wider than your hips and butt then you probably fit into this category.

Look for swimsuits that are supportive and slimming.

Swim suits with shirring down the sides and at the waist create division between the waist and hips, shrinking the look of your mid-section. You could also choose a one piece with plunging neck line and high cut thigh. This suit will bring the attention to your chest and your legs, taking it away from your waist.

If you are looking for a two piece swimsuit consider a bikini with a dark colored halter top and a printed bottom. The halter top provides a lot of support and the dark color will flatter your shape. You want your swimsuit to slim your top half while emphasizing your hips and lean legs.

Hourglass

If your chest and hips are proportionate and your waist is quite a bit smaller you have an hourglass body type. The perfect swimsuit for this body type should highlight your body’s natural curves and accentuate your waist. A bikini with a matching print on both the top and bottom is a perfect choice because attention will be drawn to your waist. You want to stay away from bikini bottoms that have very thin or very thick sides. If you wear a bikini bottom with thin strings that tie at the side your hips might appear wider and throw off your hourglass shape. On the other hand, if you wear hipsters or boyshorts with wide sides, your hips will appear less curvy and less feminine. You can also choose to wear a one piece in a variety of prints and styles. Women with hourglass figures have lots of choices. Remember, less is not always more.

Athletic or Straight

If you are not very curvy and have a narrow chest and hips you fall into this category. You want to create the illusion of curves. A halter top or triangle top swimsuit is perfect for this body type. Pick a bikini top with ruffles or fringe. You want to stay away from bandeau tops. They will minimize your curves. Women with an athletic frame can wear low-rise boyshorts or hipsters.

These options actually create a curvier look for women with an athletic or straight frame. You might also consider a monokini with sexy side cutouts. This will give you the illusion of having a more feminine figure.

You can find the perfect swimsuit to fit your body. No matter what you wear to the beach this summer, make sure you feel confident. After all, nothing is sexier than confidence!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Azizah Hines is a Sales Specialist for Teva Women’s Health. When she is not working she is cheering her daughters on at their various activities. You might find her at a fashion show on a Friday night and an Astronomy viewing on a Saturday night… mixing it up keeps her life interesting.

www.womenslifestylekazoo.com

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July 2013

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n g i s e D

An Outdoor Living Room

by Ashley Cole

T

hese precious months of summer entice us to spend as much time as possible outdoors. It is no surprise that more and more homeowners are moving their living room outside. So why not do it in style? Forget the days of plastic folding chairs and tiki torches. The hottest trend is to transform your backyard or patio into a true extension of your home with chic furniture and design elements. With a certain coziness in mind, it’s about pulling together a cohesive collection of furniture and accessories to mimic what would be designed for an interior living room. Lucky for us, many well known furniture and home accessory manufacturers have jumped on board and created outdoor collections made to withstand the elements. Be inspired and get outside!

Lay the Foundation

Every room begins with the floor. The use of an outdoor rug helps to define the space as a room and not just a collection of patio furniture. Center an allweather rug where you will be grouping your pieces.

The world of outdoor rugs has expanded greatly in the past few years. You’ll be amazed by the quality and selection of colors and patterns available. Some rugs are so attractive and durable, they are used for indoor dining rooms and entry ways. Choose one that coordinates with the furnishings. It will create a perfect backdrop and establish the base of which the “room” is built on.

Add Seating

Think about how you would set furniture in an indoor setting. Most likely a combination of a sofa, coffee table and a few chairs will provide the seating needed for a comfortable conversation area. Arrange the pieces facing one another around a table or outdoor ottomans. Made from a wide variety of

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all the better. However, if that is not a possibility, a large umbrella or addition of a sail shade will create the same effect and provide protection for sunny days.

More permanent structures such as pergolas are a worthy investment if this is a place that gets a lot of use. Not only is it functional, but adds aesthetic value to the exterior of your home.

The trick to feeling cozy in an outdoor space is to add the element of walls without actually building them out of drywall.

Light It Up synthetic fibers and cotton blends, outdoor fabrics on upholstered seating and cushions are woven textiles that undergo a special treatment during manufacturing. This process allows them to repel water, resist soiling and prohibit mildew growth.

Quality matters for the best long term use of these products.

Create Walls

The trick to feeling cozy in an outdoor space is to add the element of walls without actually building them out of drywall. A natural “real” wall may be the side of your house or garage. Plant a vertical garden or hang a wall-mounted fountain or sculpture as a focal point.

By placing objects such as large planters in the “corners” of your outdoor living room, a sense of privacy and definition is created. If the luxury of a built-in fireplace is an option, it becomes center stage and stands as an end wall in which to center your outdoor living room around.

Add a Ceiling

The ideal ceiling, of course, is provided by mother nature. If your seating area can be placed under a tree,

Chances are you’ll be using this lovely space after the sun sets, so lighting is important to bring your festivities into the evening hours. Solar-powered accent lights are easy to find at a local home supply store and simple to install along the edges of your “room”. Lanterns can be hung from large tree branches or a sturdy awning. Wall mounted lights provide the best light for reading. Install sconces to the side walls of your home or garage to integrate fixtures into your new outdoor living space. When in doubt, classic strung lights turn blah into magic.

Delight in the Details

Add side tables for places to set beverages, a good book or laptop. Accent pillows in outdoor-friendly fabric add a punch of color and comfort. Extra large pillows can be placed on the ground for additional seating. When using the space, vases of flowers placed on the coffee table, candles and music set the mood.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Ashley Cole is a professional interior designer with a passion for all things style. Her work has been featured on HGTV as well as publications including Kitchen Trends and Home Magazine. Ashley thrives on “creating environments that enliven the spirit.” www.ashleycoledesign.com

www.womenslifestylekazoo.com

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July 2013

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Eating And Shopping Locally

is Growing Famous Michigan Bean Dip is a tasty Mexican style bean dip that is vegan and gluten free. It won the product placement award at the Making it in Michigan Food Show in 2011and was featured in the Kalamazoo Gazette as one of the five edible items President Obama should try during his visit to Kalamazoo. It is sold in Kalamazoo at D&W on Parkview, People’s Food Co- Op Natural Health Center, Sawall’s Natural Foods, Tiffany’s Spirit Shoppe and even Gale’s Hardware. The website is www.dipyourchip.com.

Every day it seems that interest in eating and shopping locally is growing. More and more people, concerned with the environmental impact of goods shipped from afar or just tired of seeing their favorite local businesses close their doors, are looking for ways to fill their carts with items produced closer to home. As demand grows, so too do enterprises that seek to smooth the road for the cottage industries that seem to be popping up each day.

Fair Food Matters, based in Kalamazoo, was founded in 2001 with a mission to build, educate, support and empower the community around local food. They envision thriving local communities worldwide growing and distributing safe, nutritious, locally produced foods that foster healthy communities, environments, and economies.

One of the ways Fair Food Matters seeks to do this is through the Can-Do Kitchen. The Can-Do Kitchen is the area’s only food business incubator and commercial kitchen. It supports food entrepreneurs by providing a low-risk environment, connecting to business-building resources, and partnering with business counselors. It also hosts promotional tasting events, offers food safety training, facilitates wholesale ingredient orders, and more.

It serves dozens of small food businesses and cooking classes and the kitchen is available for catering, cooking parties, cooking shows or videotaping, among other things. These offerings are crucial to promoting the cottage industries that are seeking to meet our communities growing demand for quality local food.

You will find compiled here a small sampling of the delicious local products available to you here in the Kalamazoo area. The list is not exhaustive but is merely designed to whet your appetite for the best that our community has to offer. For more information about the bounty that exists here in Kalamazoo, please visit www. fairfoodmatters.org.

Brazilian Oven, LLC: Cheese Bread is a

very popular appetizer in Brazil. Made with tapioca flour and three types of cheese, it is naturally gluten free. Although it is a new product here, it has been around for almost 2 centuries in Brazil. Proudly made in Kalamazoo, Cheese Bread is the first product of Brazilian Oven LL, founded by Silvana Quadros Russell. It can be found in 12 stores in the Kalamazoo area, as well as in Grand Rapids and Canton. It retails from $5.99 to $6.99.

Two new flavors will soon be available: Roasted Jalapeno and Roasted Garlic. For more information, visit www.BrazilianOven.com.

Creswick Farms

is dedicated to raising healthy, happy animals, lovingly cared for as Mother Nature intended.

They guarantee their animals are raised without antibiotics or growth hormones. From grass-fed beef and lamb to pastured pork and poultry, their products meet a higher standard for “natural.” Their animals enjoy non-herbicide / non-chemical fertilized pasture and have free access to organic minerals and kelp. At Creswick Farms, their meats are processed in a family-owned slaughterhouse and are vacuum-packaged to preserve freshness and improve shelf life. They now offer a delivery drop-spot in the Kalamazoo area. For more information, visit www.creswickfarms.com.

The Dough Chicks:

Owned and operated by the mother and daughter team of Denise and Kara Steely, The Dough Chicks love good food and love to share it. Their promise is that their food will sustain your blood-sugar level while giving you the fuel needed to get through the day with natural and delicious ingredients. Their mission is to provide tasty, nutrient dense and convenient food for busy and active people! The KaraComet energy bar, RawKet Bites (raw cacao truffles) and Chia Crunch (gluten-free granola) are available at many locations throughout Kalamazoo (including Sawall’s Natural Foods, Natural Health Center and the People’s Food Co-Op) and can also be ordered online at www.doughchicks.com.

Clara’s Kitchen LLC: Michael Kruk formed Clara’s Kitchen, LLC, named in

memory of his mother, three and a half years ago to start marketing his bean dip. Mike’s

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July 2013

www.womenslifestylekazoo.com

My Cheese, LLC: Created by

Deborah Harsha, Vicksburg Cheddar Spread is a unique, fresh, locally produced full flavored sharp cheese spread with a hint of horseradish. It is delicious on crackers, pretzels and chips, on veggies or potatoes and in recipes. It is available in retail (7 oz) packages and wholesale (2 pound) sizes. Vicksburg Cheddar Spread has a loyal following of local cheese lovers and can be purchased in Texas Corners at the Cheese Lady and Fresh on Q (Saturday Farmer’s Market), in Vicksburg at The Village 1872 coffee shop and at the Vicksburg Farmers Market (sold by Smiths Sugar Shack), among other locations. For more information, visit www.mycheesemycheese.com.

Peaceful Pastries:

Owned and operated by Jennifer La Pietra, Peaceful Pastries offers a wide variety of baked goods made especially for those following a vegan and or gluten-free lifestyle. If you can imagine it, they can make it!

They love special orders, but several popular products are sold at Natural Health Center in Kalamazoo and Chocolatea in Portage and Apple Valley in Battle Creek. Prices for these products range from $3-$5 while special orders are priced on an individual basis.

Simply 8: Founded

by Ernie Pang, Simply Eight prides itself on creating simple, minimally processed, great tasting breakfast and snack foods containing eight or fewer all-natural ingredients.

Their products are free from artificial colors, flavors, preservatives, genetically modified organisms, trans fats, and high fructose corn syrup, and include two varieties of 100% natural chewy granola bars and cookies—chocolate chip and peanut butter chocolate chip! Simply Eight’s goal is to bring back the wholesome basics of simple ingredients found in everyday kitchens. Find these great tasting, simple, Kalamazoo-based products on shelves at select Meijer and Kroger stores. For prices and more information, visit www. simplyeight.com.

Veggie Bites: Veggies

Bites loves to pickle things… cucumbers, asparagus, beets, jalapenos, cabbage, veggie mix and much more. All of their vegetables are packed in fresh cold brine to give you the best flavor available and are hand-packed to ensure the highest quality. They use only vegetables grown in the U.S. and packaged in Michigan. All of their products are gluten-free and contain no artificial colors, flavors or preservatives. Starting at $7, you can find Veggie Bites at the Kalamazoo Farmers Market every Saturday, also at the Peoples Food Coop, Natural Health Center, selected Harding’s stores, and Bell’s Brewery. For more information, visit www.veggiebites.biz.

July 2013

13

Confessions of an Advertising Goddess…

“Don’t learn from my mistakes…make your own!

Having recently gone to watch a softball game, I was coerced by wellmeaning friends into playing. I suddenly found myself alongside my new teammates, in street clothes and Coach sneakers meant for exploring cafés, not the outfield. I’m not athletic in the least, and while I envisioned a multitude of ways that I would embarrass myself, nowhere in the corners of my mind did I foresee the way it actually went down.

I walk to home plate dragging my bat as one might while being led to execution. I dig in with my sneakers in anticipation and I wait for the ball… and swing. I connect, and the ball dribbles past the pitcher in classic ballhit-by-girl style, and I take off for first base. Running as fast as I can, I start to envision being carried off by my teammates after the game. Then, with about twenty feet left to go…I trip. Yep, with nothing in my way but my own klutziness, I trip – sending me face-forward into the loose clay and covering me from head to toe in a lovely grey dust.

We all dread these types of experiences but they provide us with something beyond a good anecdote to share with others. They build character. Life is about living…literally. While we learn from experiences that have a positive

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outcome, it’s equally important to experience the misses, mistakes and messups that are a regular occurrence for people who are stepping out and trying new things. I am a firm believer that if you never make a mistake, never tick anyone off and cannot share one horrible, humiliating experience that has happened to you in the last year…you’re not living.

After 10 years in business, I am comfortable telling people that as a business partner of Ad Shop, etc., I have made every mistake once and a few of them twice. Frankly, that is the kind of business that I would want working for me…with people who aren’t afraid to go out on a limb once in a while. I once read a quote in “O” magazine that stated, “Learn from the mistakes of others so that you don’t make them yourself.” I think that’s poppycock. I’ve never learned anything by watching others, and if you’re not making mistakes every once in a while, you’re likely not stretching yourself.

Perhaps you’ve read about the recent challenges JC Penney has faced from a marketing standpoint. After many successful years of retailing, they are currently finding that their brand name has fallen out of favor and they’ve been trying to rebrand themselves in a market that quietly passed them by when they weren’t looking. They updated their tired looking stores (a smart move) and revamped their advertising and marketing – some which worked and some that didn’t. In their latest TV commercials they basically acknowledge that, stating that they have made some mistakes and they hope we’ll give them another shot.

I like that. After all…you can’t make it to first base if you’re afraid to hit the ball. And I don’t care if you fall.

The Advertising Goddess (AKA - Heidi McCrary) is co-owner of Ad Shop, etc. – a boutique advertising agency offering full-service and ala carte marketing services to local businesses. Contact Heidi at heidi@adshopetc. com or at (269) 207-0103.

www.womenslifestylekazoo.com

Summer Fun in Michigan If you’re looking for a fun way to experience the great outdoors this summer, head north to Newago and visit Wisner Rents Canoes. Located at the corner of M-37 and the Muskegon River, this family-run business is co-owned and operated by Operations Manager Rachel Wisner and her mother, original co-founder Carole Blaire.

“When asked how long I have been in the canoe renting business, I always joke, ‘Since before I was born,’” said Rachel. “It was started by my dad, Bob Wisner, and my mom in 1969, two years before I was born.”

Bob started the business when he accidentally purchased a canoe rental at a yard sale, mistakenly thinking he was buying a rack of eight canoes and being handed a reservation calendar instead. He rented those canoes from his truck in Croton, then purchased the “old pickle shed” in 1971 that still serves as the Wisner Rents Canoes headquarters. The fleet has since expanded significantly, growing to incorporate canoes, rafts, tubes, kayaks, and specialty items such as drift fishing boats and cottages.

“We are always looking for new ways for our guests to enjoy the river safely and responsibly,” Rachel said. “One very popular way is to go on one of our full moon night trips, which is a great way to experience the river like never before.”

Wisner Rents Canoes also hosts a variety of special occasions, such as reunions, bachelor and bachelorette parties, family fun trips, and river cleanups throughout the year. “Anything you can think of, we can help make it into a floating adventure.” With shuttle services to and from local lodging, and camping plentiful in the Newago area, Wisner Rents Canoes is a convenient and fun location for any summer outing.

“We have had people with very young children as well as mature adults on our trips, and we are very lucky to have a mild river with a little bit of rapids and no whitewater,” Rachel said. “We have different types of equipment and try our best to match the age and type of guest with what’s appropriate.”

What should you bring on a canoe trip through Wisner Rents Canoes? Food, snacks, alcohol-free beverages, sunscreen, water shoes, hats, waterproof cameras, and “happy people.”

“The best thing about Wisner Rents Canoes is that our crew really wants all groups to have great trips on the river,” Rachel said. “We truly enjoy seeing happy faces after the trip, and love to hear the stories of why they had such a great time. I really do have the best job in the world—I get to share one of the best resources our area has to offer with people that may never have had the opportunity to see it otherwise.”

Wisner Rents Canoes’ staff hopes to keep streamlining their systems so that their business becomes more efficient, not just for their guests, but for the environment.

“With this being a seasonal business, I plan on being here at least ten more summers,” Rachel said. She hopes to start passing some of her roles onto another manager so that she can spend more time on the river. “I’m guessing there is nothing closer to heaven than kayak fishing on a random Monday afternoon without a care in the world!”

Rachel currently lives in Newago with her thirteen-year-old daughter, and Carole lives nearby with her husband. Rachel’s sister, Gina, resides in Nevada, but comes home often in the summers to help out with rentals, answer phones, and act as Social Director and their clients’ group shot photographer.

For more information about Wisner Rents Canoes, visit their website at www.wisnercanoes.com, view their Facebook page, or call the office at 231.652.6743.

Emily holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in English with emphases in Creative Writing and Journalism. She has been contributing to WLS since 2009.

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July 2013

15

Angie Jackson

WHAT DO YOU LIKE BEST ABOUT WHAT YOU DO?

PROFESSION: Master Culinary Mixologist

TELL US ABOUT YOUR CAREER:

I love educating the public about artisancrafted distillates via properly balanced cocktails using seasonally-fresh and locally sourced ingredients through cocktail demonstrations, spirited dinners, Mixology classes and events at restaurants, bars and tasting rooms throughout the State of Michigan. It’s time to support Michigan produced distillates - The Cocktail Revolution has begun.

I preach and teach the Gospel of Fine Crafted Cocktails using seasonally-fresh, locally sourced ingredients. I began my bar EDUCATION: career in 1996 and have created, designed and executed cocktails for I attended the Advanced numerous distillers, distributors, bars, restaurants and spirited events Mixology Culinary Academy in the greater Chicago area and SW Michigan. I have consulted with top (Chicago, IL) studying under global spirit brands as well as small, artisan-crafted distillers throughout the Master Mixologist Bridget Midwest. I am the Michigan Brand Ambassador and Mixologist for JourneyAlbert in 2009 WHICH CAUSE man Distillery (Three Oaks, MI) where I create and educate the importance of seasonally-fresh, locally sourced cocktails using Journeyman Distillery’s IS CLOSEST TO YOUR hand-crafted, organic spirits distilled in the historic Featherbone factory in HEART? Three Oaks, MI. I also provide employee/staff education as well as brand Craft cocktails. I no longer tolerate poorly support via on-premise and off-premise events throughout the State of flavored spirits mixed with artificial, sugaryMichigan. I also hang my elixir hat in the back bar at Old Dog Tavern as WHAT DO YOU sweet mixing concoctions that glow in the dark. a Spirit Slinging Elixir Fixer where I mix up fine crafted locally sourced, DO IN YOUR SPARE It’s time to stand up and say “NO THANK YOU” to seasonally-fresh cocktails using the prohibition method of cocktail cocktails that are mixed with unnatural “fruit-flaTIME? creation on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday evenings for your vored” juices that have names that end in “-tini”.

I love visiting local and independently libation pleasure.

It’s time to embrace and celebrate properlyowned restaurants, bars and tasting balanced cocktails using seasonally fresh rooms throughout the “Great Lake and locally-sourced fruits, vegetables and State.” If antique shops are spotherbs. Its time to start asking quested in my travels, that is contions and educating ourselves. sidered an added bonus.

FAVORITE GUILTY PLEASURE:

WHERE WERE YOU BORN? Kalamazoo, MI

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July 2013

Whiskey. Hands down. Tell me you are a whiskey fan and you will have a friend for life. Tell me you love vodka and I’ll tell you I rinse my mouth out with vodka before sipping fine whiskey.

WHAT INSPIRES YOU:

The smiles of first time cocktailians who sip my liquid art creations. The local artisan craft distilling movement in Michigan keeps me motivated and inspired. In 2005, Michigan had 2 distilleries. Today we have over 22 distilleries. We are only #2 to California.

It’s time to start supporting these hardworking folks who have created hundreds of jobs here in our State and continue to produce beautifully artisinal spirits.

DO YOU HAVE ANY HIDDEN TALENTS:

I am an accomplished guitar and banjo player and have written several instrumentals that have appeared in independent films.

www.womenslifestylekazoo.com

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July 2013

17

Brownie ’n Berries Dessert Pizza 16 servings

1 box (1 lb. 2.4 oz.)

Betty Crocker® Original Supreme Premium brownie mix Water, vegetable oil and egg called for on brownie mix box

1 package (8 oz.) cream cheese, softened 1/3 cup sugar 1/2 teaspoon vanilla

2 cups sliced fresh strawberries

1 cup fresh blueberries

1 cup fresh raspberries 1/2 cup apple jelly Preheat oven to 350°F (325°F for dark or nonstick pan). Grease bottom only of 12-inch pizza pan with cooking spray or shortening.

Make brownie batter as directed.

Spread in pan. Bake 26 to 30 min­utes or until toothpick inserted 2 inches from side of pan comes out almost clean. Cool completely, about 1 hour.

In small bowl, beat cream cheese, sugar and vanilla with electric mixer on medium speed until smooth.

Carefully spread mixture evenly over brownie base. Arrange berries over cream cheese mixture. Stir jelly until smooth; brush over berries.

Refrig­erate about 1 hour or until chilled. Cut into wedges. Store covered in refrigerator.

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July 2013

Sides

courtesy of Betty Crocker

W

hen you’re loading up the family for a big barbecue celebration, be sure to load up a variety of freshly-made salads and deliciously decadent brownies.

Whether pasta salads, potato salads or even those leafy greens, this side favorite is a perfect accom­paniment to juicy grilled burgers, brats and steaks. Because this savory barbecue fare can bring out anyone’s sweet tooth, don’t

forget to dish out the desserts. Adding your favorite nuts, fruit and candy toppings to a rich, gooey brownie can melt the hearts of guests as easily as the hot summer sun.

The best part about bringing a salad or brownie dessert — besides both being flavorful barbecue staples — most can be prepared the night before. This gives you more time to focus on the important things, like grilling your next culinary master­piece and hanging out with your family.

Red, White and Blueberry Pasta Salad 6 servings

1 box Betty Crocker® Suddenly Salad® classic pasta salad mix Water and oil called for on salad mix box

1 cup diced red bell pepper

1 cup blueberries 1/3 cup feta cheese, crumbled Prepare pasta according to package directions. Stir in remaining ingre­ dients, except feta, mixing well with pasta salad dressing. Sprinkle feta over salad. Refrigerate at least 30 minutes before serving.

www.womenslifestylekazoo.com

Greek Tossed Pasta Salad

Feta, olives and tomatoes give a ready-in-30-minutes pasta salad its classic Greek inspiration.

10 servings

1 box Betty Crocker® Suddenly Salad® classic pasta salad mix Water and oil called for on salad mix box

4 cups torn romaine lettuce

2 medium tomatoes, coarsely chopped (1 -1/2 cups)

1 small cucumber, coarsely chopped (1 cup) 1/2 cup thinly sliced red onion, slices cut in half

1 can (2 1/4 oz.) sliced ripe olives, drained

4 oz. crumbled feta cheese (1 cup) Make pasta as directed on box.

In large bowl, stir together season­ing mix, water and oil. Stir in pasta and remaining ingredients, except cheese. Sprinkle with cheese. Serve immediately or refrigerate.

Take several bottles of partially frozen water along on your picnic.

The ice will gradually melt and you’ll have cool water to drink throughout the day or evening.

S’mores Brownies 16 servings

1 box (1 lb. 2.4 oz.) Betty Crocker® Original Supreme Premium brownie mix (plus water, vegetable oil and egg called for on brownie mix box)

2 cups miniature marshmallows

4 graham crackers, broken into small pieces

2 milk chocolate candy bars, broken into 1-inch squares Preheat oven to 350°F (325°F for dark or nonstick pan). Make brownies as directed. After remov­ing pan from oven, set oven to broil.

Immediately sprinkle marshmallows and graham crackers over warm brownies. Broil about 4 to 5 inches from heat for 30 to 60 seconds or until marshmallows are golden brown. Watch carefully, marsh­mallows and graham crackers will brown quickly. Sprinkle with chocolate candy.

To serve warm, cool about 30 minutes. Cut into squares, four rows by four rows.

July 2013

19

Transform Garage Sale Castoffs Into

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s the warmer weather is upon us, it brings many new activities: baseball, picnics, beach time and - best of all - garage sales. People are purging what they don’t need or no longer want. It’s the perfect opportunity to turn their trash into your treasure. From outdated odds and ends to forgotten furniture, there is a wealth of worthy items just waiting to be found, re-imagined and re-purposed.

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Rusty metal, chipped paint, colors from another decade - they are common sights for the garage sale shopper. But when you look beyond these imperfections - and at their spray paint potential - you’ll soon find some diamonds in the rough.

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Metal products, such as tables, chairs, garden tools or even watering cans, can receive an easy and instant update with Rust Protector spray paint. These products, available in a variety of colors and finishes, dry in just eight minutes. As you create your new masterpieces, you won’t have to worry about grass, leaves or other particles getting stuck in your fresh coat of paint. Plus, the paint provides the ultimate protection against rust, keeping your new treasures looking amazing, regardless of the elements they face.

If it’s color you desire, look no further than spray paint with bold, bright or basic hues to update your new findings. Turn blah and bland wood chairs, dusty and drab dressers or awful accessories into amazing furniture or accents with the extensive line of color and finish choices. Covermax technology provides premium coverage and brilliant color. It’s a new formulation that achieves better hide without relying on shading or fillers that can darken or wash out colors. The result is hues that are clean and crisp.

New Uses For Old Things

The key to finding items at garage sales is to look at how they can be used in new and different ways. Don’t view that dusty, broken typewriter or vintage camera as mechanical pieces you have to fix, but rather as interesting design elements to be admired on bookshelves and mantels.

Even old books can add a level of sophistication to your home. Grab a handful in coordinating colors to stack on a dresser or end table for instant eye appeal. Buy an old ladder and prop it against the wall to drape blankets. You can even spray paint an old coffee mug rack to create a fabulous jewelry organizer to hang all your favorite accessories. The possibilities are endless.

Turning Up Treasures

If your main reason for getting giddy over garage sales is to make a quick buck, you’re not alone. Valuable items could lurk at every turn, and they are just waiting to be snatched up by eager buyers.

Before you head out to garage sales, however, do your research and read up on collectibles. Generally, pieces with high nostalgia will fetch a higher price tag. Think classic lunch boxes, comic books, sports memorabilia or board games - things you loved as a kid that never seem to go out of style. You can also enlist the help of a collectibles expert, who can tell you everything you need to know.

20

As you head outdoors this summer on a hunt for some bargain fixer-upper or forgotten gems, keep your eyes peeled and your mind open. The perfect addition to your home is right around the corner. You just have to use your imagination and bring it back to life.

July 2013

www.womenslifestylekazoo.com

Shop Local

& Buy Local

Independent businesses provide meaningful services with a personal touch. It matters to them that you are satisfied and will come back again.

July 2013

21

Legally Speaking:

S

AVOIDING Internet Scams

adly, we often have clients come to us only after falling prey to one of the many internet scams out there. They are hurt, embarrassed and have lost money, privacy, or trust, or sometimes all three. They say that women are the more emotional, empathetic of the sexes, which is probably why most of these scams target the so called fairer sex. Unfortunately, once the damage is done, there is very little recourse to be had. Hunting down these perpetrators is not easy and legal remedies are unlikely. That said, it is definitely best to spot these scammers ahead of time and avoid falling victim to these cons in the first place. Here’s how you can spot a few popular ones going around.

Disaster Relief Scams

It seems doubly nefarious to take advantage of such tragic events, but after tragedies such as 9-11, Katrina, and Sandy, scam artists have a field day preying on others’ goodwill. They often set up fake charity websites and steal the money donated to the victims of disasters. Additionally, if your request for a donation came via email, there is a chance of it being a phishing attempt. Don’t ever volunteer your bank account or credit information, unless it is a recognized charitable organization, and even then, you may want to confirm the website’s legitimacy with the organization directly.

Online Dating Scams

These criminals usually claim to be Americans traveling or working abroad. Here’s how they

22

July 2013

by Elizabeth Lueder and Raquel Salas

usually work—you will be contacted online by someone who appears to be interested in you. For weeks, even months, you may chat back and forth, and you may even be sent flowers or other gifts.

But ultimately, your lothario asks you for money.

He may also send you checks to cash, since he’s out of the county, or he may ask you to forward him a package.

In another extortion scam, victims met someone on an online dating site and then were asked to move the conversation to a different social networking site, where the talk often turns intimate. The victims are later sent a link to a website where those conversations were posted, along with photos, their phone numbers, and other damaging claims.

Victims are forced to pay in order to have that information removed.

Don’t Call 112

We’re not sure where this one came from (or who it benefits), but there have been a host of emails and Facebook posts floating around warning women about various predatory conduct and counseling them to call 112 in case of an emergency. Don’t be fooled! 112 is an emergency number in some countries, but not in the United States. Some states will forward 112 calls to 9-1-1, but not all areas or dispatchers do this. Stick with 9-1-1 in the case of an emergency.

Phishing Emails and Phony Web Pages

This is probably the most widespread Internet and email scam today. “Phishing” is where digital thieves lure you into divulging your password info through convincing emails and web pages.

These emails generally resemble legitimate credit companies, like Citibank, eBay or PayPal. Commonly, the guise is an urgent need to “confirm your identity.” The message generally requires you to click on a link, but the link will redirect you to a fake website. Then you innocently enter your ID and password. The information is intercepted by the scammers, who may later access your account. If you are ever in doubt, call the financial institution at issue and verify that the email is legit. In the meantime, if an email seems suspicious to you, do not trust it.

Even the savviest of us can get tripped up with some of the frauds out there, especially when they appeal to our heart, our fears, or our emotions.

Don’t be the next victim. Think before you click, and if you are ever asked to send money—no matter the ruse—beware. There may be a legitimate reason for you to pull out your wallet, but we’ve never heard of one.

ABOUT THE AUTHORS: Raquel Salas and Elizabeth Lueder are attorneys with Avanti Law Firm.

Visit www.avantilaw.com to learn more about the work they do.

www.womenslifestylekazoo.com

The Only Easy Job Was Yesterday’s...

When I come to work every day, I arrive knowing there’s a likelihood that someone is in a jam because they forgot to order payroll envelopes for their company or printed materials for the big trade show next week.

Meeting those kinds of challenges on a daily basis helps me to feel like I’m making a difference, knowing that I can help someone sleep better at night because they’re not worried about their presentation materials arriving on time for their big sales meeting the day after tomorrow.

Printing is such a part of our lives that it’s easy to take it for granted. It’s easy to forget to order an important printed document, with all the other planning that occurs in your business.

That’s where we come in. If you have a “print problem,” just let go, and let us take over. While you’re planning, we’ll be printing. We’ll hit your deadline. There’s no need to worry. We’ll be there when you need us most.

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July 2013

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Stay on Track with Your Retirement Investments Investing for your retirement isn’t about getting rich quick. More often, it’s about having a game plan that you can live with over a long time. Investing for your retirement over the long term also takes a little knowledge and discipline.

Though there can be no guarantee that any investment strategy will be successful and all investing involves risk, including the possible loss of principal, there are ways to help build your retirement nest egg.

$46,610. In 25 years, it would grow to $68,485, a 47% gain over the 20-year figure.

(Of course, these are hypothetical examples that do not reflect the performance of any specific investment and assume that no taxes are paid or withdrawals are made during that time.) If your workplace savings plan contributions are made pretax, as most

First, the mix of asset classes you own is a large factor--some say the biggest factor by far—in determining your overall investment portfolio performance. Second, by dividing your portfolio among asset classes that don’t respond to market forces in the same way at the same time, you can help minimize the effects of market volatility while maximizing your possibility of long-term return. Ideally, if your investments in one class are performing poorly, assets in another class may be doing better and may help stabilize your portfolio.

Remember that during any given period of market or economic turmoil, some asset categories and some individual investments historically have been less volatile than others.

Compounding is your best friend

It’s the “rolling snowball” effect. Put simply, compounding pays you earnings on your reinvested earnings. Let’s say you invest $100, and that money earns a 7% annual return.

At the end of a year, the $7 you earned is added to your $100; that would give you $107 in your account. If you earn 7% again the next year, you’re earning 7% on $107 rather than $100, as you did in the first year. That adds $7.49 to your account instead of $7. In the third year with a 7% return, you’d earn $8 and have a total of $122. Like a snowball rolling downhill, the value of compounding grows the longer you leave your money in the account. The longer you leave your money at work for you, the more exciting the numbers get. For example, imagine an investment of $10,000 at an annual rate of 8%. In 20 years, assuming no withdrawals, your $10,000 investment would grow to

worker’s are, compounding really can become a powerful force.

Diversify your investments

cash alternatives such as a money market fund. The term “asset classes” also may refer to subcategories, such as aggressive growth stocks, international stocks, investment-grade corporate bonds, and high-yield or “junk” bonds. Asset allocation is important for two reasons.

Asset allocation is the process of spreading your dollars over several categories of investments, usually referred to as asset classes. A basic asset allocation would likely include at least stocks, bonds, and cash or

Sandy K. Derby, CFP®, ChFC has been in the financial services industry since 1989. Sandy is President of Derby Financial & Assoc. LLC, where our goal is to help women become financially secure and independent, through comprehensive financial planning. Sandy can be reached at sandykderby@ derbyfinancial.net or 269-321-5047.

Securities and investment advisory services offered through ING Financial Partners, Member SIPC Derby Financial & Associates, LLC, is not a subsidiary of nor controlled by ING Financial Partners.

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July 2013

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July 2013

25

The Humble, Sexy

Chocolate Truffle:

by Elisabeth Veltman photography by Jeff Hage, Green Frog Photo

Made Dairy-Free & Gluten-Free

O

Once upon a time, in a kitchen far, far away, a culinary giant named Escoffier found his cream in his chocolate chunks (when it was supposed to go into his eggs). His apprentice was nonplussed by his silly mistake and began working the mixture and rolling it into awkward looking balls. Indeed, these gems looked like that rare fungi prized by any chef or gastronomie with enough francs to afford them. Truffles!

While France is the chocolate truffles country of blunder, sources disagree upon this confection’s daddy, crediting Petruccelli in 1895, rather than Escoffier in the 1920’s. Regardless, truffles of both the culinary and confectionary kind have come to symbolize luxury, while each has very humble beginnings. The word “truffle,” for instance, comes from the Latin word for “tuber” or “lump.” The fungus version grows in the dirt and can only be found by pigs. Since the pigs tend to eat them and cut into a chef’s tasty bottom line, dogs have been trained to sniff for truffles like cocaine hidden in a bad guy’s luggage. You can’t get more humble than being rooted out by pigs and dogs; or not knowing who your parents are.

Conversely, there are no two sexier lumps than either type of truffle. When you take the time to find it, or make it, the sensuous truffle inspires. The truffle makes you say, “yes.”

In today’s world, food allergies, sensitivities, and intolerance add a humble layer of “no” without giving back any romance, whatsoever. But, who says that we can’t find our way back to “yes?” We can make it dairy-free, and gluten-free, and have our sexy lumps, too. And we can have them with cognac.

Perhaps these will inspire a few of our own happy accidents.

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July 2013

www.womenslifestylekazoo.com

Almond, Cognac Truffles

Dairy-free, Gluten-free Copyright, Elisabeth Veltman, The Tender Palate

Ingredients 24 ounces of dairy-free bittersweet chocolate: 10 oz. chopped in small chunks for the ganache 6 oz. tempered for the ganache (see below) 8 oz. tempered for the coating (see below) (Recommended brands: Enjoy

Life Bittersweet Chocolate Chunks or Callebaut Bittersweet Chocolate) 1/2 cup of coconut cream (measured after the fat is stirred in)

(Recommended Brand: Thai East Coconut Milk) 1 TBS of coconut oil (melted) 2 tsp. of almond extract (gluten-free) 4 TBS of cognac (pure distilled) 1/2 cup of granulated sugar (for sprinkling) Instructions: MAKE THE GANACHE: Place 10 oz. of chopped chocolate into a medium-sized bowl. In a small saucepan, bring the coconut cream just to a boil and immediately pour over the chocolate chunks. Add the coconut oil. Shake to evenly coat, and then cover the bowl with a plate to seal in the steam. This will melt the chocolate. Ignore for 10-15 minutes, and then whisk the mixture vigorously until there are no lumps and the chocolate has a lovely shine to it. Whisk in the cognac and the almond extract.

TEMPER 6 OZ. OF CHOCOLATE: As you wait for ganache to melt together (above), place 6 additional oz. (3/4 c.) of chocolate chunks into a Pyrex* measuring cup and place into the microwave for 20 seconds. Stir, even if the chunks aren’t melted yet. Place the chocolate back into the microwave for 20 more seconds, and then stir again. Repeat this until the chocolate melts at 15-second intervals. When all of the chocolate is melted and stirred, you have tempered chocolate. This will add to the texture of the truffles. Add this to the Ganache and whisk until the shiny again.

At this point, place your ganache, covered, in the refrigerator to firm up for an hour or over night.

*Use the Pyrex brand of measuring cup, since it conducts heat evenly. Some containers will burn the chocolate in the microwave.

ROLL & COAT: Temper another 8 oz. of chocolate chunks in the microwave, using the same method above, but set aside.

Remove the ganache from the refrigerator. If it is too hard, simply let it sit for 30 minutes. With a small melon baller, tiny ice cream scoop, or a spoon, scoop out the ganache and roll in your hands to make a small, round ball. Continue until the ganache is all balled up. Place each ball on a plate with an inch of space around each one. The carefully spoon the last batch of tempered chocolate over the top of each ball so that it seeps over the top and down the side and creates an upside down cup.

Place the plate(s) of truffles in the refrigerator to set for about 30 minutes. When the chocolate is set (the outer coating will be hard, and the filling will be firm but soft) turn each truffle over and sprinkle the ganache filling with sugar.

Serve cold or at room temperature. Best to store covered in the refrigerator.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Owner of Blue Pearl Strategies, Elisabeth is also The Tender Foodie. She started this blog and The Tender Palate, to help those food allergies and sensitivities.

Siblings at War

Does Mary just abandon her mother and stick John with all the responsibility? Does the cottage deteriorate and end up being sold at a court ordered sale, for a song, with the family permanently estranged?

Unfortunately the answer to these questions is often “yes” - that’s exactly what happens, time and time again.

While people often express curiosity about how difficult it is to mediate a divorce, I am rarely asked about another problem that’s also difficult to resolve: mediating disputes between siblings. A wife who’s been betrayed can make a clean break with her cheating spouse, find new love and perhaps even forget about what happened 10 years ago.

But Mary never forgets that Mom favored her brother John 40 years ago when he got all the extra treats, money for the best clothes and lavish praise for his mediocre “accomplishments”.

How can this be prevented? Well, some disputes can be prevented by the parents themselves. Assuming they are still sound mentally, they can meet with their children and discuss what the children’s desires are for the lake cottage. Annie, who lives in Sacramento with her husband and three children, has no interest in spending thousands of dollars each year flying to the cottage on Lake Michigan which her family doesn’t really like anyway. She wants a buyout of her interest, or some other equitable division of the estate.

And now John needs Mary’s cooperation and support in taking care of their bed- ridden Mom and her newly diagnosed dementia. Good luck with that one!

Perhaps there can be an agreement that John’s wife will “run the show” and all the siblings will contribute to an escrow account for maintenance and have an annual lottery for picking weeks for vacation.

How about the annual fights over the summer cottage left to each of the siblings equally? Who takes the lead in making sure the property is properly maintained and updated when needed? Sometimes the siblings try to get along, but the real problem is John’s wife, who wants to run the show like she’s the one who inherited the place.

But sometimes it may be necessary to bring in a neutral third party mediator to help the family in sorting out the egos and emotional baggage siblings bring to the table. The mediator will help the family separate the ISSUES from the parties in order to help Mom. They can keep the cottage for those who want it and most importantly, preserve those family relationships for the future. Remember, mediation is always about the future, no matter what events transpired in the past.

Now multiply these problems by adding three or four more siblings and their spouses and kids and things can get really interesting.

You can’t get divorced from your siblings like you can from your spouse. Mom is going to need help as her health declines, whether you like her or not. It’s not John’s fault that she favored him - at least, not usually.

Jeff Murphy, an attorney and mediator, is a principal in Mediation Services of Southwest Michigan. He brings over 35 years of corporate, civil and domestic relations experience to the table when he is called to mediate a dispute. For more information, please visit www.Jeff MurphyMediator.com

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Seek You and

Shall

Find

by Gary Watson

O

ne thing I notice a lot with my family, friends, coworkers, and also myself is that we always find what we are looking for. I used to get really irritated when I was complaining about someone or something to a friend or coworker and they would always point out the bright side of the situation. I hated that. These are the same people that say, “Well, at least I still have my health” right after their wife leaves them and takes the dog with her, and the house gets blown away in a tornado that also took out the new truck.

My dad is like this. He never seems to complain about anybody or anything and always looks on the bright side. If he gets cheated out of a few bucks somewhere, he always assumes it was an honest mistake and never seems to dwell on things he can’t change. He’s also one of the most relaxed and content people I know.

On the other hand, I know people who always seem to look for what’s wrong.

Everyone else’s house is nicer than theirs; their car isn’t good enough, their husband doesn’t do enough, and so on. And it seems they are never happy about anything, even though their circumstances are no worse than anyone else, and better than many. So, it seems that whether you look for the good in people and situations or look for the bad, you’re going to find what you’re looking for. A good example of this is when you notice a couple that seems mismatched. Maybe one person is much better looking than the other or more charming, etc. Our first thought is usually to wonder, “What is she doing with him?” I usually had this thought whenever a woman I liked was dating any other man. But I’ve noticed it as well when I saw a man with a woman that might, at first glance, seem to be out of his league. I’d look at her and make a snap judgment and think he must have low standards. However, the more I wondered what he saw in her, I would start to notice the positives about her.

I’d notice what a nice smile she had and how it lit up her whole face. Or I’d notice what a sharp sense of humor she had or how smart or kind she was. The more I looked for the positives in this person, the more I could see why this guy picked her for his girlfriend, and my whole view might change.

In one scene of the 1989 movie, “Say Anything,” John Cusack’s character, Lloyd Dobler, chides his older sister when she is complaining about her life.

He asks her, “How hard is it to just decide you’re going to be in a good mood, and then just be in a good mood?!” It’s a good point really. How hard is it to decide to be in a good mood and find things to be in a good mood about? How hard is it to decide things are going pretty well under the circumstances and look for and find things to be happy about?

It takes practice to get the hang of this, but I think the guy who was grateful for having his health after losing his wife, dog, house, and truck had the right idea.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Gary Watson is a Solution Focused counselor at Turning Point Therapy, LLC. For more information about his counseling practice, please visit www. turningpointtherapy.net.

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www.womenslifestylekazoo.com

Cool off…with cucumbers!

Cucumbers are cool and by that, I mean more than just that their inner temperature being up to 20 degrees cooler than the outside air. Originating over 10,000 years ago in southern Asia, the cucumber has been “cool” for a long time.

Cool Cuke Rounds Ingredients 1 large cucumber 8 ounces Neufchatel cheese, softened 1/2 teaspoon Adolph’s seasoning 1/2 teaspoon onion powder 1/8 cup minced fresh chives 4 ounces of smoked salmon, chunked (optional) Fresh dill for garnish (optional)

The ancient civilizations of Egypt, Greece and Rome, all prized the cucumber, not only as a food but also for its health benefits. Containing the two compounds of ascorbic acid (Vitamin C) and caffeic acid, cucumbers can prevent water retention. When used topically, they can reduce swelling under the eyes, skin irritations, inflammations, bedsores, burns, sunburn, scalds and even heat rash.

Instructions: Peel cucumber and slice into pieces about 1/2-inch thick.

Use a melon baller or a teaspoon measurer to scoop out part of the insides.

In a bowl, combine cheese with Adolph’s, onion powder and fresh chives.

Using a tablespoon scoop, fill the divots in the cucumber with the cheese mixture.

Top with a chunk of salmon then garnish with a fresh sprig of dill. Chill and keep cold until serving.

Cucumbers - when taken internally can help relieve heart problems, kidney problems, and help to dissolve uric acid accumulations (gout), kidney stones and bladder stones, too. They are also rich in fiber and contain the beneficial minerals silica, potassium and magnesium.

Ground cucumber seeds have been used to expel intestinal worms - including tapeworm -and cucumber juice can soothe the intestines and the lungs.

According to the DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) Study, foods high in potassium, magnesium and fiber – like cucumbers - can help lower blood pressure levels to healthier levels.

Scientifically known as Cucumis sativus, cucumbers belong to the same family as watermelon, zucchini, pumpkin and other types of squash. According to the USDA, cucumbers come in just two primary types -slicers and picklers. Slicers are for fresh use, such as in salads or vegetable trays. Picklers are, well, used to make pickles! Slicers are thick with dark green skins while the picklers have a thinner skin and are shorter in length and have a longer shelf life.

When choosing, look for cucumbers with firm, fresh-looking skin, a good green color and that feel heavy for their size. Avoid dull or yellowish cucumbers, those that have dark, sunken areas or a puffy appearance, and those that look wrinkled or shriveled, especially on the ends. When a cucumber is pickled it decrease in nutritional value, so try to consume them in their raw state for optimal nutrition.

Store cucumbers in the top part of the refrigerator; storing in too cold an area can cause chill damage and softening.

Place cucumbers in an airtight container to help slow moisture loss and shriveling. Do be sure to wash well before preparing.

Approximate servings per recipe: 16. Per serving: Calories 48; Fat 4g; Sodium 198mg; Carbohydrates 1g; Fiber 0.15g; Sugar 0.28g; Protein 3g.

Cool Cuke Rounds: Dainty and delicious, these Cool Cuke Rounds are a delightful treat no summer gathering should be without!

Stylist/Photographer: Laura Kurella

Cuke Shooters Ingredients 1 long, skinny cucumber 1/4 cup sugar 1/4 cup water 4 ice cubes 1/4 cup vodka (optional) Instructions: Divide cucumber into 4 equal segments. Carefully core 4/5 of each center, leaving enough in the bottom to create a space capable of holding fluid. Place in a plastic bag and put in freezer until use. Chop removed cucumber pieces into a fine dice then, in a medium saucepan, bring sugar and 1/4 cup of the water to a boil. Once the sugar has dissolved, add diced cucumber flesh and simmer until tender, about 10 minutes. Remove from heat, pour into a blender, add ice and vodka (if using), then puree until smooth. Chill until serving. To serve, pour mixture into the frozen cored cuke vessels and garnish with a thin slice of cucumber, if desired.

Approximate servings per recipe: 4. Per serving with alcohol: Calories 120; Fat 0g; Sodium 11mg; Carbohydrate 14g; Fiber 0.5g; Sugar 13g; Protein 0.5g.

Non-alcoholic version: Calories 56; Fat 0g; Sodium 11mg; Carbohydrate 14g; Fiber 0.5g; Sugar 13g; Protein 0.5g.

Cuke Shooter: Look as cool as you feel by serving up a round of these clever Cuke Shooters. Made from the very cucumbers you are drinking, you’ll be serving up a cool drink your guests won’t soon forget!

Stylist/photographer: Laura Kurella

July 2013

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Aging-In-Place upgrades that look great and make sense (BPT) - Do the words “aging in place” and “home improvement” conjure images of institutional-looking grab bars in bathrooms and overhead kitchen lights that could illuminate an airport runway? Many people eschew certain types of home improvements for the same reason others refuse to wear hearing aids - the negative connotations of age.

Changes in mobility, vision, hearing and stability are a reality of growing older for many Americans. Certain types of home improvements can make your home safer and more comfortable as you age, allowing you to live there longer. From lovely skylights that fill rooms with vision-friendly natural light and fresh air to slip-resistant flooring in designer colors, those “aging in place” home improvements can be beautiful as well as functional.

Here are a handful of aging-in-place upgrades that shout “fabulous” instead of “fogey”:

In the kitchen

We all spend a great deal of time in the kitchen, and it’s the room where we also do the most work. Upgrades that improve your ability to reach important appliances, enhance vision and boost safety will help you use your kitchen more efficiently for as long as possible.

Age-related vision changes can necessitate increasing the amount of light in your kitchen. Task lights and under-cabinet lighting can focus illumination where you need it most, and hide discretely out of sight without disrupting the clean lines and unmarked beauty of kitchen cabinets.

Overhead lighting is also important, but rather than opting for industrial-type lights that may cause harsh glare, consider introducing natural light. Research published in the British Journal of Ophthalmology suggests that natural light may be better for aging eyes than artificial light. A skylight is an upscale, beautiful home improvement that can benefit boomers with natural light.

Skylights can also help improve indoor air quality.

Most exposure to environmental pollution occurs by breathing indoor air, according to research by the Greenguard Environmental Institute. No leak solar powered fresh air skylights, like those made by Velux America, not only provide healthful natural light, they also provide passive ventilation to reduce fumes, humidity and stale air - improving overall indoor air quality.

You can increase a skylight’s energy efficiency with solar powered blinds. The complete daylighting system, plus installation, is eligible for a 30 percent federal tax credit. To

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learn more about these Energy Star-qualified skylights, visit www.veluxusa.com. The website offers a skylight planner app to show you exactly how skylights and blinds will look in your home, as well as a tax credit calculator to figure your savings.

In the bath

Falls are a leading cause of injuries that result in hospitalization of older people. Most falls in the home occur in the bathroom, so taking precautions in this much-used room makes sense. Like them or not, grab bars improve safety in the bathroom. Fortunately, bathroom fixture manufacturers seem to understand the need for products that blend safety and beauty. It’s now easy to find grab bars in a variety of attractive finishes and designs that complement your interior decor.

Lighting is also important in the bath, and a fresh air skylight can be beneficial in this room. Skylights provide natural light and passive ventilation while ensuring privacy in the bath. If your bathroom is on the ground floor, without direct roof access, you can still enjoy natural light by installing a Sun Tunnel tubular skylight.

Flooring is another opportunity to blend beauty and practicality in the bathroom. Replacing slick, traditional ceramic tiles with slip-resistant flooring such as stone, vinyl or textured ceramic tile, can be visually pleasing and safety-enhancing at the same time.

Outside the house

Navigating from the car to the front door can be fraught with peril for older folks, yet many people dislike the way certain assistive devices, like ramps, look in front of their home. If you’re not ready to add a ramp, a decorative railing for outdoor stairs is a great alternative. It’s easy to find good-looking options and virtually any home contractor can help you create a railing that meets your safety needs and meshes well with your home’s exterior design.

Outdoor lighting is also important for safety. Make sure walkways are well lit with low lamps that put illumination directly at your feet. New high-output solar lights are a great way to effectively light a path while minimizing energy costs. Finally, keep concrete sidewalks and brick pavements in good repair. Take care of uneven spots or loose pavers right away, to reduce the risk of falling outside.

www.womenslifestylekazoo.com

SHINGLES: The Other Chickenpox

N

early everyone knows someone who has had shingles. Just the word “shingles” is enough to put fear in the minds of many.

An ounce of prevention may be better than a pound of cure.

WHAT IS IT?

Shingles is a viral infection (Varcella-Zoster Virus). It causes a very painful rash that can occur anywhere on the body but most commonly on the torso. It usually occurs on one side of the body and appears as a single or multiple stripes of blisters. The varcella virus is the same virus that causes chickenpox. Most older adults had chickenpox as a child. After the signs of chickenpox resolve the virus can lie inactive for many years in the dorsal root ganglion of the spine. Eventually it may reactivate, travel the nerve pathways to the skin causing shingles.

Why it reactivates is unclear. Age alone is a risk factor. As we age our immune system weakens.

Immune system can also be weakened by HIV, chemo for cancer, and some medications.

Varcella-zoster is part of a group of viruses called “herpes.” It is also called “herpes zoster.”

It is important to understand that the chickenpox and shingles viruses are NOT the same as the virus that causes cold sores and genital herpes; that is sexually transmitted. Shingles is not life-threatening but can be very painful, and if not treated early can cause long term disabling nerve pain. Early treatment can reduce the length and severity of the outbreak and reduce the chances of post herpetic neuralgia (nerve pain). Vaccines can greatly reduce the risk of developing shingles.

SYMPTOMS

Stripe(s) of linear blisters that follow the nerve root usually on one side of the trunk. Outbreaks can also occur on the face, scalp or near the eye.

Pain is usually the first symptom of shingles.

Itching, burning, and tingling are also common.

Some people develop general viral symptoms such as fatigue, headache, and low grade fever.

The rash develops into fluid filled blisters that break open and crust over.

IS IT CONTAGIOUS?

The open lesions or any drainage is contagious.

If someone contracts the virus they will break out in chickenpox not shingles. Until the outbreak totally scabs over you should avoid contact with newborns, pregnant women and anyone who has a lowered immune system (people with HIV, undergoing chemo for cancers, and some medications).

mistaken for kidney stones, heart or lung conditions.

Ophthalmic Shingles. Vision loss or permanent blindness can result if shingles occurs in or around the eye. Immediate medical care is of utmost importance if any rashes, blisters or pain occur around the eye. Encephalitis (inflammation around the brain), facial paralysis, hearing or balance problems can occur.

Systemic Shingles. Rare, generalized shingles rash/blisters can be very serious and needs immediate medical attention.

TREATMENTS

There is no cure. Prompt treatment with antivirals such as Acyclovir (Zovirax), Valacyclovir (Valtrex), or Famciclovir (Famvir) can shorten the duration or the outbreak and reduce the incidence of complications. Shingles can cause severe nerve pain. Medications to help block some of the pain impulses from going to the brain such as Gabapentin (Neurontin) or amitriptyline are used. Numbing agents are used topically Strong pain medications are sometimes needed.

PREVENTION

Chickenpox vaccine is recommended for adults that have not had chickenpox as children. The vaccine doesn’t guarantee that you won’t get chickenpox or shingles, but seems to shorten the course and reduce the chances for post herpetic neuralgia.

Varicella-Zoster Vaccine (Zostavax) has been released and the FDA has approved its use in adults 50 and older. Again, it doesn’t guarantee you won’t get shingles, but will shorten the course and severity and reduce the risk of post herpetic neuralgia. Prevention seems to be the best strategy.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Jane Thiel is a women’s health nurse practitioner at Grand Rapids Women’s Health. For 35 years, Jane has enjoyed working with women of all ages; although she is specifically sought out for her experience in menopausal issues.

COMPLICATIONS

Post Herpetic Neuralgia; in other words when the virus reactivates it damages nerve fibers.

Those damaged nerve fibers can send confused and exaggerated pain messages from the skin to the brain that can last weeks, months or even years. The pain can be so severe that it has been

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FITNESS:

Can Music

Make

YOU Move?

by Kimberly Olson

W

hile flipping through the latest Oxygen magazine, I noticed that they often ask top fitness competitors what’s on their playlist during interviews. I usually just find an upbeat channel on Pandora and run with it, but this definitely intrigued me. Was there more to it? Could music impact the way we moved during our workouts, increasing intensity and endurance? I went to an expert in the field, Costas Karageorghis, PhD, who has been studying how music affects us for over 20 years. The results of his research may surprise you.

The first question I wanted to explore was whether or not music could impact the intensity or endurance of our workouts. I’ve heard some say that it is distracting and causes you to not really focus on your actual workout. Dr. Karageorghis says that music is actually a great tool for beginner to intermediate exercisers. For those in this stage, making it to the gym or going out for a morning run is still perceived as work. Therefore, adding something positive such as your favorite rock songs to your workout may be just the ticket to keep you motivated and looking forward to your next sweat session. For those that are seasoned athletes or have always been active, the same benefits may not occur.

Usually those in this group are working above 70-80% of their aerobic capacity, and are so into it that the added music does very little for them.

Now we need to look at whether or not music can really increase intensity. From what I can tell, it has a lot to do with the pace of the music. For example, obviously I’m not going to rock out to Guns N’ Roses while doing Yoga, but I may amp up the volume while doing sprints or high intensity interval training (HIIT).

What I would recommend is using an app to check the beats per minute (BPM) for your favorite songs

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and then create a couple of playlists based on that. As a cycling instructor, this was super important for my students. We could warm up to 60-80 BPM and top out at 140 BPM no problem. Obviously we couldn’t break out of the gate at 140 BMP and the same thing goes for your exercise pace in regards to music.

There’s just something about music and your soul that can really get you moving.

I would match your warm ups and cool downs to 60-80 BPM, or any style of exercise that is slower in pace.

When training for my first marathon, I would listen to a language learning program to develop my Spanish speaking skills. The speed was perfect for my long runs and I felt I really benefited from the education as well.

Throughout the workout, you can gradually increase to 120-140 BMP. This is extremely helpful when doing sprints (running or cycling) or really working it with the iron. Whenever I hear the song “Lose Yourself” by Eminem, I seriously feel like I can do anything during my workout. There’s just something about music and your soul that can really get you moving.

To get started, I would recommend jotting down songs that come on the radio that really pick up your mood.

I personally also like to group my playlists by genre, such as rock, hip hop, country (yes, there ARE good

country songs to work out to!), and even jazz or blues.

It really depends on your preference and how you are impacted by the music. Before your next workout, sit down and create an awesome playlist that gets you pumped. If done correctly, just the thought of the songs will start to get your workout juices flowing. Here are a few to get you started: Welcome to the Jungle - Guns N’ Roses Hollaback Girl - Gwen Stefani Like a G6 - Far East Movement Lose Control - Missy Elliott People Are People - Depeche Mode Runnin’ Down a Dream - Tom Petty Control - Janet Jackson How Bizarre (Mix) - OMC Blue Monday - New Order Maneater - Nelly Furtado Let’s Get It Started - The Black Eyed Peas Speed of Sound - Coldplay Mr. Brightside - The Killers Rock Your Body - Justin Timberlake Technologic (Radio Edit) - Daft Punk SOS - Rihanna Another One Bites the Dust - Queen B.O.B. - OutKast The Rockafeller Skank - Fatboy Slim Here It Goes Again - Ok Go

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Nutrition and fitness expert Kimberly Olson, CNC, CPT is the creator of FitKim, a nutrition and fitness blog that teaches people how easy it is to be healthy. www.fitkim.com

www.womenslifestylekazoo.com

July 2013

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&

Simple Summer Entertaining:

T

he tastes and smells of summer keep me dreaming all winter long for the days I can go barefoot again; fresh produce from the farmer’s market, watermelon by the slice, skewers on the grill, and the chill of an ice cream cone on a hot day.

Whether you are heading to the beach or down the street to a neighborhood park, a simple picnic adds something special to the day. And as much as we love summer days, there is something about a cool evening breeze, crickets in the background and laughter across the table that makes summer evenings unforgettable. Successful picnics and dinner parties don’t require anything extravagant. All you need is a comfortable setting, good company and simply delicious food.

In an effort to make hosting a dinner party or picnic packing even easier, I sat down with a few experts on food and table settings, Chef Tina Marie Greene (owner of Kissing Rock Kitchens) and Amy Ruis (owner of Art of the Table) to get their best tips and secrets on summer menus and table settings.

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photo by Gina Grover

by Kelly LeCoy

Sample Picnic Menu:

by Chef Tina Marie • • • • • •

Peachy-Tomato Salad with Basil Vinaigrette Muffuletta Apple Lentil Salad Stuffed Cucumbers and Shrimp Citron Shortbread Cucumber Mint Water

Drink Pairing

by Amy Ruis, Art of the Table •

Packing Your Picnic

“The bag is important! I always forget something,” says Amy. “Pick a picnic basket that suits your needs and put everything you need for a picnic in it. So when you pick it up, all of the essentials are already rhere.”

Amy recommends using an insulated bag, but you can also use a traditional picnic basket. Some baskets even come stocked with silverware, salt and pepper and glasses. “Don’t forget something to sit on,” she adds.

Big Little Wine Company’s “Tire Swing” or The Rio Madre

“What I would take on a picnic is one of two things (or maybe both), a bubbly and a nice red. Big Little Wine Company’s “Tire Swing” has crispy, appley deliciousness and it is made up in Leelanau County The Rio Madre is 100% Graciano from Rioja, Spain and is a current fave. It is big bold fruit, but soft enough, without too much tannin. Spicy, blue fruits abound!”

www.womenslifestylekazoo.com

Setting Your Table

RECIPE

“The colors for the season are blues, especially turquoise and navy,” Amy shares, “The nautical look is coming back. I’m still seeing a lot of bright colors too, oranges and muted greens. These go really well with turquoise.”

by Chef Tina Marie

Miso Glazed Salmon

Table decor doesn’t need to be extravagant; you can create a variety of settings with the basics. Gather a few tablecloths, napkins, summer dishes, and candles or lanterns for centerpieces. Amy recommends having a variety of basic tablecloths that you can change out based on your table decor. “I don’t like busy tables.

Having a basic tablecloth lets you do a lot. It’s fun to have different colors of napkins that go with a candle or lantern,” explains Amy. “Take a red lantern and put an orange candle [in it]. That kind of thing can quickly transform your table.”

Marinated in a mixture of yellow miso, sake and brown sugar, it finishes with a crispy caramelization on top and a mouth-watering sweet and salty taste.

Serves 4 Ingredients 2 Tbsp red miso or 3 Tbsp white miso 2 Tbsp sake 2 Tbsp brown sugar (less or more to taste) 2 teaspoons soy sauce 4 six ounce skinless salmon fillets (replace with tofu for a vegan option)

While Amy prefers having a separate set of dishes for outside (hers are red and orange), you can easily use your regular dishes. Find salad plates of a different color and use your regular dishes and silverware. The pop of color will totally transform your table.

“I like having lots of light on the table. It makes a cool centerpiece, Amy shares. “When you are talking until ten or eleven at night, it adds a great atmosphere.” She recommends using candles or lanterns to add light to your tableware and using torches or stringing lights to light up the surrounding area.

Amy’s best advice is to go simple and not to be too fussy. What is the most important isn’t the decor, the drinks or even the menu you spent hours planning and making. It is the community at the table, the conversation, the laughter, and the memories you are creating.

Sample Dinner Menu:

by Chef Tina Marie • • • • • •

White Bean and Garlic Pate with Pita Chips Watermelon, Feta and Basil Salad Quinoa and Farro Salad with Pomegranate Vinaigrette Miso Glazed Salmon Basil Custard with Apricot Mince Chamomile Ginger Tea Breeze

Drink Pairing

by Amy Ruis, Art of the Table •

Tariquet Chenin Chardonnay

“Any Chenin Blac or lighter bodied Chardonnay would be delicious. The crisp minerality of Chenin Blanc harmonizes well with the full body of Chardonnay in this refreshingly smooth white wine from the Basque region in the southwest of France.

Overall bright and lightly citrusy, expect flavors of green apple, juicy pear, ripe melon, and honey alongside a crisp acidity make it a delightful pairing for seafood or salad. Plus, this wine is vegan – it’s not processed with any animal products!”

Method Mix the miso, sake, soy sauce, and sugar in a small bowl. Adjust proportions to taste. Pour half of the mixture into a container large enough to fit the salmon fillets, then pour the rest over the top of the fish. Make sure the fish is coated with the miso sauce. Cover the container and marinate for at least 30 minutes, and up to overnight.

Line a broiling pan with aluminum foil. Brush a little vegetable oil over the foil and lay the salmon fillets, skin side down, on top. Make sure there is an even, thin coating of marinade on top of the fish. Place the fillets no closer than about 6 inches from the broiler element in your oven. Broil for 6-10 minutes, depending on how thick the fillets are and how hot your broiler is. Keep an eye on the salmon. The marinade has sugar in it that can easily cause the glaze to burn. If it starts charring and the cooking isn’t yet finished, place the fish on a lower rack in the oven.

So toss a salad, put your tablecloth and candles on the table, call a few friends and enjoy the best of what summer has to offer!

RECIPE

by Chef Tina Marie

Peachy Tomato Salad with Basil Vinaigrette This fresh salad has a wonderful combination of flavors and is so refreshing on hot, summer days.

For the Vinaigrette 1/4 cup torn fresh basil leaves 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil 1/4 cup good-quality sherry vinegar 1 tablespoon honey 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard 1 small shallot, roughly chopped

Kosher salt and cracked black pepper

For the Salad 1 1/2 pounds heirloom tomatoes, roughly chopped 4 to 5 ripe peaches, sliced into wedges 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese, for garnish Combine the basil, olive oil, vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard and shallots in a blender until the dressing emulsifies and the basil is pureed. Season with salt and pepper. Combine the tomatoes and peaches in a container large enough to toss them with the vinaigrette after you arrive at your picnic paradise spot. Top with the feta cheese.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Kelly LeCoy is a Grand Rapids native, an entrepreneur and graduate of Calvin College.

She owns Uptown Kitchen, a shared-use kitchen and event space in Eastown and is passionate about food and small business.

July 2013

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July 15 Matt King – Elvis Tribute Concert The Stage at Kindleberger, rain site: Haven Church. 6:30 pm. Tribute show that faithfully reproduces the sound, look, and feel of the legendary duo in their most famous performance ever, The Concert in Central Park! Free. Lawn seating. www.kindleberger.org

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

Please type Calendar in the subject line.

July 1 - 31 Military Dogs & their Handlers Collection Drive Parchment Community Library, 401 S. Riverview Dr., Parchment. List of items available at checkout desk or www.parchmentlibrary.org July 1 – 31 Growing Matters Garden Woodward Elementary School. 7 – 8 pm.

Come help, learn, grow and play in the garden this summer. All are welcome to join us as we keep the garden growing and harvest produce for the Douglass Farmers Market. 269-492-1270. heather@ fairfoodmatters.org July 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 Douglass Farmers Market 1000 W Patterson Street. 3 – 6 pm. We’re excited for the third year of working together with local farmers, bakers and producers to improve access to healthy, local food. 269-492-1270 July 2, 6, 9, 13, 16, 20, 23, 27, 30 Texas Township Farmers’ Market Texas Township Pavilion, 7110 West Q Ave. Saturdays, 8 am - 12 pm and Tuesdays, 4-7 pm. Come to enjoy fresh fruits, vegetables, meats and more!

Proudly accepting Bridge Cards, WIC Project FRESH, Market FRESH and Double Up Food Bucks. 269-375-1591. farmersmarket@texastownship.org July 5 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 July 7 Concerts in the Park Bronson Park. 4 pm. The Red Sea Pedestrians are a one-of-a-kind, fullblown, instrument-swapping fusion between tradition and the here-and-now.

Free. 269-342-5059. www.kalamazooarts.org July 9 Pasture Dairy Center Open House MSU W.K. Kellogg Biological Station, Kellogg Pasture Dairy Center. 4 – 8 pm.

Visit one of Michigan’s first dairy farms to install robots to milk cows! Talk to Howard about the Dairy’s current research activities and enjoy refreshments. Free.

269-671-2015. http://pasturedairy.kbs.msu.edu July 10 Wild Wednesday: Butterfly Bonanza MSU W.K. Kellogg Biological Station.

7 – 8 pm. Enjoy hands-on, experiential learning activities focused on the cool world of butterflies. We’ll do a meet-

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July 2013

and-greet, walk an easy trail and make a keepsake to take home. Regular admission. 269-671-2510. kbs.msu.edu/visit/birdsanctuary July 10 – 14 Bye Bye Birdie The Stage at Kindleberger. 10th – 12th at 7 pm, 13th & 14th at 5 pm. Kindleberger Summer Festival of the Performing Arts Youth Production. Lawn seating, bring chair or blanket. Free. www.kindleberger.org July 10 – 15 Kindleberger Summer Festival of the Performing Arts Kindleberger Park. Family fun! Outdoor Theatre, 5K Race/Walk and 3K Stroller Stroll, Children’s Activities, and more! For a complete schedule of events: www.kindleberger.org July 11 3rd Annual Community Garden Tour Greater Kalamazoo area. 6 – 8:30 pm. Hop on the chartered bus or take a guided bike tour to visit the many community gardens.

This is a great time to see how community gardening is brightening up our city and building community. Free. 269-216-9681. info@commongroundkalamazoo.com July 11 – 13 Kalamazoo Blues Festival Downtown Kalamazoo Arcadia Festival Site. 22 Acts, 2 Stages, 3 Days! Acts included are Blues Caravan, JP Soars & The Red Hots, Selwin Birchwood, Victor Wainwright & the Wildroots and many more. Kvba.org for tickets and info July 12, 19, 26 Combo Class Fitness Yoga. 5 pm. Combo class will be Yoga, Pilates and Hand Weights for a great sampling of all Fitness Yoga classes.

Info @ 269-806-8618 or www.fitnessyoga4life.com July 13 - 14 Kalamazoo 4-H Open Horse Show Kalamazoo County Expo Center, North & South Horse Arenas. 9 am. A fun-filled weekend horse show with over 65 classes for nearly all riding disciplines. Show is held rain or shine. Free. www.msue.msu.edu/kalamazoo July 15 Women In Networking Meeting Personal Care Center, 8799 Gull Road, Rear Entrance, Richland. 6 - 8 pm.

You’re Invited! Networking, presentations, beverages & snack. $8 or RSVP with your name and a guest for $6 each. RSVP: win.richland@gmail.com by Thurs., 7/11. http://tinyurl.com/win-richland

July 17 Starting a Small Business & Writing a Business Plan MI-SBTDC at the WMU Haworth College of Business. 5-8 pm. $35 per attendee.

Info@ 269-387-6004 or sbtdc-kzoo@ wmich.edu.

July 18 Ice Cream Social Burch Memorial Park. 6 - 8:15 pm.

Benefits children’s programming. Games, Bounce House, Sundae’s and Root Beer Floats, Magic Show, 50/50 Raffle. $5/ person or $20/family. Call 269-679-5959 for more info.

July 20 Kalamazoo Reptile & Exotic Animal Show Kalamazoo County Expo Center, Expo North. 10 am – 3 pm. Buy sell or trade a variety of reptiles, amphibians, small mammals and other exotic pets. Adults $4, Children $2, Under 6 free, Family Max - $15. 269-779-9851. info@ kalamazooreptileshow.com July 20 Farm Day with the 4-H Historic Drake House at 927 N. Drake Road. 10 am – 3 pm. Fundraiser is being put on by the Oshtemo Historical Society in coordination with local 4-H groups.

There will be food, music, animals and more. Adults $5, Children $2 ages 13-18. www.oshtemohistoricalsociety.org July 20 Super Summer Flea & Antique Market Kalamazoo County Expo Center, Main Expo. 8 am – 3 pm. Special Weekend Market! Come check out the market for some great deals and great merchandise!

Choose from new and used items, handcrafted items, antiques & collectibles, and much more! 269-383-8761. www.kalamazooexpocenter.com July 20 Mom to Mom Sale 7714 Foxwood in Richland. 10 am – 2 pm. $1 admission for adult only. More information at moneys7714@sbcglobal.net July 20 Summer Bazaar & Craft Show Richland Area Community Center - 9400 East Cd Ave in Richland. 10 am – 2 pm.

Free. More information at moneys7714@ sbcglobal.net

July 26 Explore Your Creativity Epic Center. 6 – 8 pm. Fine arts invitational reception in the Gail Syndor Art Gallery in the Black Arts & Cultural Center. Poetry reading and Readers Theatre Performance.

Free. 269-349-1035. www.blackartskalamazoo.org July 26 Blackhawk Jazz & Blues Concert Blackhawk Bar & Grill, Richland. Doors open @ 6:30, music 7 – 10 pm. Featured artist: Bob Schultz & Doug Decker. $10.

Call Patti @ 269-731-5388.

July 27 Family Fun Fest Downtown in Bronson Park. 11 am – 9 pm. Event will include a fashion show, family fun, food, entertainment and more.

Free. 269-349-1035. www.blackartskalamazoo.org July 27 Greatest Kazoo Duck Race Arcadia Creek. 1 pm. Proceeds support Journeys, our children’s grief and loss program. Raffle tickets are $5.

269-345-0273. Hospiceswmi.org July 28 Gospel in the Park Downtown in Bronson Park. 11 am – 6 pm. Local Christian dancers, musicians, soloists and choirs will take the stage to close out the 26th Black Arts Fest.

269-349-1035 www.blackartskalamazoo.org July 29 Grilling and Games DeLano Farms Market Barn. 5 – 6:30 pm.

Join us for some seasonal fresh food on the grill! Do you need some new recipe ideas and cooking inspiration? We will share ideas for grilling veggies from your CSA share. Yard games will be out to enjoy. All ages welcome. 269-381-1574.

August 1 – 3 Community Advocates Ribfest Arcadia Creek Festival Place. Thurs. 11 am – 12:30 am; Fri. & Sat. 11 am – 1:30 am.

It is about great ribs, refreshing beverages, and amazing music. There are kids activities on Saturday, and a Market Tent.

269-388-2830. deb@eventkalamazoo.com August 2 Young At Art, Art Hop West Michigan Glass Art Center. 5 – 9 pm.

The furnace is hot, our glassblowers even hotter as they demonstrate throughout the night. View student artwork created during the 2013 summer camp season.

Free. 269-552-9802. info@wmglass.org

July 23 Rescue Dog Demonstration Parchment Community Library, 401 S. Riverview Dr., Parchment. 6 pm. Rescue dogs demonstration by Michigan Search & Rescue. 269-343-7747

August 5 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

July 25 Annual Children’s Day Bronson Park. 11 am – 4 pm. The event is geared for kids ages 6 – 12 years old and includes food, carnival games, face painting and much more! Free. 269-3491035. www.blackartskalamazoo.org

August 5 – 10 Kalamazoo County Fair Kalamazoo County Expo Center. A funfilled event for the whole family. Specific details and activities are still being planned. Check the website for more information or call 269-373-5181.

www.womenslifestylekazoo.com

Women Who Care

WHO CARES ANYWAY? Apparently 197 Greater Kalamazoo Women care.

That’s how many showed up at the second meeting of Women Who Care held at the Union Cabaret & Grille in downtown Kalamazoo on May 15, 2013. Every one of those women wrote a donation check of $100 that night. Only one deserving organization was chosen to receive the whole amount- a whopping $19,700. An amount like that can dramatically change the way a charity functions and the number of people it is able to help.

I was privileged to attend the last meeting. After signing in via a pledge form and entering the restaurant, I saw a room packed with women who were all having a great time, enjoying a drink and catching up with friends. I thought “This doesn’t feel like a typical fundraiser – everyone is too relaxed.”

The meeting officially began when three charities were randomly chosen to tell us why they should win the money. Each charity had five minutes to present followed by five minutes to answer questions from the crowd. Afterwards the women voted and the “winner” walked away with almost $20,000. The rest of us walked away feeling like winners, because for less than a new outfit or hairdo, we had all just changed lives and had fun while doing it!

Based on a similar model in Jackson, Michigan, this organization of dynamic Kalamazoo women was founded by three determined individuals: Patti Owens, Danielle Streed and Nancy Troff.

Patti Owens shared that “These generous women have collaborated to make a meaningful contribution toward improving the quality of life for the women, children and families of Kalamazoo County. Thus far, our group of over 200 women has funded nearly 50% of the annual budget of the two quarterly awarded non-profits. That’s the sort of impact which will continue to draw these amazing women together.”

Danielle Streed noted, “The progress we have made in just five short months is incredible. It is just another testament and reminder to what an incredible community we live in. I had hoped to be 200 strong by year end and now I firmly believe 250 is more than attainable!”

“I am thrilled that 200+ Kalamazoo County Women have so eagerly signed on to give what amounts to immediate (quarterly) blood transfusions to important local non-profits. It says a lot about our community,” Nancy Troff remarked This particular evening the money was given to Partners in Housing Transition, St. Luke’s Episcopal Church’s signature local outreach program. This charity assists formerly homeless families in becoming self-sufficient by providing basic household furnishings. For more information on this wonderful charity, visit: www.stlukeskalamazoo.org/outreach_socialjustice.jsp#PHT The next meeting is Wed, August 21st, at The Union Cabaret & Grille. Registration begins at 5:00 and the membership meeting starts promptly at 5:30, to be finished no later than 6:30. For more information contact womenwhocare. kalamazoo@aol.com.

And A Good Time Was Had By All! Our thanks to Habitat for Humanity for the wonderful experience we had working together on the Women Build project. We had a blast! od friend well anddegboy side!

Pam Stoork - w ing si

ds!

WLSK Team and Frien

Ruth Ann Dibert – Women Power!

The Habitat Team – Awesome People!

July 2013

37

Drive-In Nostalgia

by Jeremy Kress

Reader’s Lounge

by Schuler Books + Music

The Art of Thinking Clearly

by Rolf Bobelli

W

hen was the last time you saw a movie under the stars? In the 1950’s, Drive-In Theatres were everywhere. Over the past few decades, their numbers dwindled as the megaplex concept grew in popularity. At one point there were over 4,000 Drive-In’s in the late 50’s – and now that number has dropped to under 400, with only eight still operating during the summer months in Michigan.

A Drive-In is designed as a destination featuring playgrounds, batting cages, putt putt courses, arcades, and expanded snack bars or diners to provide entertainment while you wait for the sun to go down. Once dusk arrives, most Drive-Ins will give you not one, but two features on a giant outdoor screen. Many locations still offer the nostalgic car window speakers, but also feature the movie soundtrack playing on FM radio stations for crisp, clear sound.

There has been a lot of talk about Drive-In theatres facing another possible wave of extinction as digital cinema has expanded to the point where film companies are moving away from 35mm film altogether. With the expense of a digital upgrade, many Drive-In theatres are having difficulties making the shift, but luckily many Michigan locations have already upgraded to digital, or are in discussions to do so very soon.

A trip to the Drive-In theatre should be on everyone’s summer to-do list. Whether you are going to relive the nostalgia of some summer memories from your past or wanting to check out what all of the fun is about for the first time, this is the perfect time for a drive. Find a location near you: 5-Mile Drive-In 28190 State Rte 152 #M Dowagiac, MI 49047 One Screen Drive-In – Opened in 1961

Capri Drive-In 119 W. Chicago Rd. Coldwater, MI 49036 Website: Capridrivein.com Two Screen Drive-In – Opened in 1964

Cherry Bowl Drive-In 9812 Honor Hwy. Honor, MI 49640 Website: Cherrybowldrivein.com One Screen Drive-In – Opened in 1953

Ford Drive-In 10400 Ford Rd. Dearborn, MI 48126 Website: Forddrivein.com Five Screen Drive-In – Opened in 1950

Getty Drive-In 920 E. Summit Ave. Muskegon, MI 49444 Website: Celebrationcinema.com/GettyDriveIn Four Screen Drive-In – Opened in 1949

Hi-Way Drive-In 2778 E. Sanilac Rd. Carsonville, MI 48471 Website: Thehiwaydrivein.com One Screen Drive-In

Sunset Auto Theater 69017 Red Arrow Hwy. Hartford, MI 49057 One Screen Drive-In

US-23 Drive-In G-5200 Fenton Rd (Old US-23) Flint, MI 48507 Website: us23driveintheater.com Three Screen Drive-In – Opened in 1952

July 2013

Do you remember that one class in high school or college where you were blown away by the sheer applicability of what you were learning? It’s as though someone was letting you in on a secret; teaching practical advice. The lesson indelibly became the framework for how you started to see the world. Dobell has the same influence; unexpected for its simplicity and undeniable in its repercussion. Wisdom comes with age, unless you come across a book like this first. You will never look at a foible the same way again.

The Other Typist

by Suzanne Rindell

Rose proficient, steady and oldfashioned - is silent witness to the horrible facts of criminals’ confessions, but maintains her place outside of the depravity. Yet, when a woman who epitomizes the new age of the female sex starts to work in her office, she permeates Rose’s imagination pulling her into an underbelly she has this far only recorded.

Rindell exquisitely unfolds Rose’s new identity with mastery, having a keen sense of lurking, untapped resources. Part Fitzgerald and part Gillman, The Other Typist wheedles a prim stenographer into an almost psychopathic virtuoso.

www.womenslifestylekazoo.com

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