Beautiful You - May 2009

GREATER KALAMAZOO

May 2009

Essential • Enlightening • Entertaining

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Greater Kalamazoo Edition • May 2009

Greater Kalamazoo Edition • May 2009

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New “Do?” Are You Due for a

I

Janice Lynne Lundy

In July 2008, I threw caution to the wind and cut off my hair. Actually, I had a talented stylist do that for me; I would not have trusted myself with that task. For many months I had sensed it was time – time for a new me to emerge. A radical new “do” was the first step.

All of my life, I have had long (or longish) hair. In my growing up years – the 1960s – long hair was “in.” The queens of the day had magnificent tresses: Grace Slick, Janis Joplin, Cher, as well as numerous models and actresses. In high school I recall actually ironing my hair, as Cher reportedly did, on an ironing board in my parents’ kitchen to accentuate that long, sleek, hip look. Having long hair, to me, seemed to epitomize femininity.

As the years went on, I clung tightly to my long hair, through child-rearing years, even into mid-life. It made me feel young and attractive.

And then the day came – I don’t know how it happened – when I looked into the bathroom mirror and did not recognize the woman who stood there. The person staring back at me did not feel like me at all. Who was she? A mid-fifties gal who was trying to pretend she was still young? On closer observation, wrinkles traveled in wide arcs all over my face, skin sagged in the oddest places, and wiry gray hairs refused to cooperate with dye. Who was I and when had I come to look this way?

This “awakening” happened at the same time that new publicity photos were needed to launch my new book. Despite doubting my appearance, I had them taken anyway. Holding the results in my hands, I had the same reaction as when I’d looked in the mirror a few days earlier. This is not me, I thought to myself. I do not feel like the woman in this picture.

What I came to understand, in fact, was that I was no longer that woman. I had outgrown her a while back. My interior had changed so dramatically over the years that it did not match my exterior. The woman in the picture looked dated and pretentious. My life, worldview, and sense of self had shifted to be more natural, simpler. I knew I must do something to create congruency within myself.

So I decided to chop off my hair.

The experience was radical and profound. I loved my new look the moment I gazed in the mirror at the salon. Yet, afterward, I dissolved into tears when I looked at it again in the rearview mirror of my car, certain I had made an enormous mistake. For a split second, I was frozen, frightened. What had I done?

In the days that followed, I gradually began to embrace the woman I knew myself to be: A woman who was more confident and courageous, one who could take a bold step into the unknown to try something new. A woman who could release traditional notions of beauty and forge her own way.

Though, I admit, I was sorely tested. My husband loved my new look. My stepson hated it and wouldn’t even look at me, which launched me into further self-reflection. How much did I rely on the opinions of others? How much of my self-worth was tied up in pleasing them, in being liked, getting noticed? I never thought that a haircut would propel me into a new phase of personal growth, but it did. And I am very grateful that it did. Like many women my age, I am learning to accept new facets of myself, one day at a time. This journey into our truest self never ends.

If you are sensing that it may be time for you to let go of outdated notions of self, tending to your physical appearance in a brave, new way might be in order. You may want to begin by asking yourself a few questions: What about my physical appearance am I hanging onto? Why? What would I like to let go of?

What would make me feel more authentic, more comfortable with my age?

Am I afraid of what others might think? Am I willing to take a chance and explore new versions of my body, hair and face? What holds me back from doing so?

Am I tied to cultural notions of beauty?

These are not easy questions to answer. Bringing them to a journal can help – a safe place to privately explore your feelings about your physical appearance. I do know that if we are willing to look beneath the surface at who we really are, we will move toward congruency; to live our values so that our inner beauty shines through for all the world to see. I invite you to join me and fully embody the woman you are meant to be.

Perhaps there is a new “Do” waiting for you, too!

Janice Lynne Lundy is an inspirational speaker and retreat leader, spiritual director, and the author of “Your Truest Self: Embracing the Woman You are Meant to Be,” available in bookstores nationwide or at www.amazon.com. Visit www.awakenedliving.com to learn more about Jan, her writing and her events.

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Greater Kalamazoo Edition • May 2009

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Greater Kalamazoo Edition • May 2009

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Beauty In Motion

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By Madeline L. Zackery

EASY WAYS TO

AVOID BIG BAD CLEANING PROJECTS

Who hasn’t heard this famous quote “Beauty is in the eye of the beholder?” We all have our own interpretation as to what “Real Beauty” is. As women, we have a desire to look and feel beautiful. As mothers, it is so important to instill in our daughters that they are unique and beautiful in their own way. In today’s society, we have models featured in magazines that are a size “0” who look anorexic. Some of our young Super Stars are in competition to see who can wear the smallest dress size, so they don’t look “fat” on magazine covers. Many times they are air brushed to look even thinner. These are not good role models for our daughters.

What is “Real Beauty?” Some might think it is having a beautiful face, great hair, a perfect figure, long legs, etc ...well, of course we may not fit that “perfect” mold, but each of us is really beautiful in our own special way. Maybe you have a beautiful smile or a beautiful personality; maybe you are very graceful and poised. When I was a child my mother, Madeline Allen, would always say, “Beauty Is As Beauty Does.” A person may be beautiful on the outside, but if they have ugly ways or a bad personality, they are not thought of as being beautiful. The opposite is also true, when a person has a beautiful personality, is kind and considerate, they are truly a beautiful person. I often tell models, it does not matter how beautiful you are, if you don’t have a good disposition, if you are not dependable and if you don’t have the proper skills, you won’t make it as a model. It is not just about how you look!

Often times you will hear men say, when referring to a beautiful woman; “there’s something about the way she moves.” The Beatles even wrote about it in the lyrics to a song.

When women have poise and grace in their movements, it makes them beautiful. To some it is like; “Poetry in motion”. For years, I have judged Beauty Pageants and I have seen many beautiful contestants. However, if they do not have a graceful walk and are not poised, they do not score well with most judges. Poise and grace are not bought “over the counter”. It is something that comes from within. Some people may have it naturally while others may have to work at it…but it can be achieved.

I’d like to share a few pointers on standing, walking and sitting with grace and poise.

Standing gracefully means using good posture, shoulders back, chin parallel to the floor (as if you have a book on your head), arms are gracefully at your side with hands in profile position. Your feet are in the basic position; (right foot pointing straight ahead and left foot behind the right at an angle slightly pointing left.) The weight of your body should be on your left foot to align your posture. Standing in this position makes you look graceful and poised.

Walking gracefully should begin with you standing gracefully (as described above). Begin with the foot in front, leading with the pelvic area forward. If you lead with the head forward, you will appear slumped over. Leading with the pelvic area forward aligns your posture. Step gracefully and slightly roll your foot - heel to toe. (Not shifting your weight from right half of body to left half of body, which makes you have more of a waddle to your walk.)

Sitting gracefully means you are using good posture, ankles crossed and brought to the side in the opposite direction of the knees. Please make sure your knees are together, whether you are wearing a dress or jeans, you should always practice this so it becomes a habit.

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H

annah Keeley, lifestyle expert and host of the PBS program "Hannah, Help Me!" offers four quick and easy cleaning tips for the whole family to follow.

Get a game plan Divide your home into four zones – eating areas, living areas, sleeping areas and bathrooms. Each week, focus on cleaning just one of the four zones. Spreading out the chores will mean a lighter effort throughout the year instead of a buildup of gunk waiting for a springtime scrub-down.

Be sure to make note of the zones on your calendar so you don't get swept up and forget all about it.

Get organized Cut the clutter. Stacks of papers, boxes and miscellaneous junk can be magnets for dust, dirt and more. Clutter takes up the majority of your housework - usually about 80 percent - so if you cut out the clutter, you'll significantly cut your cleaning time. Find storage containers to organize and hold your family's possessions. Even your kids can help out. Attach picture labels to storage bins so the little ones can easily identify where their belongings should go.

Have fun Turn everyday cleaning chores into fun, family-friendly activities.

Chase your kids around the room while vacuuming. Blast your family's favorite playlist and invite the kids to dance around the house with you while dusting. Or, when washing dishes, use the soapy water to blow some bubbles with the kids. With a little creativity, seemingly boring household chores become fun games faster than your family can say “Mary Poppins.”

Make your house do the work

If you practice your poise and gracefulness on a daily basis, you will be an example of “Beauty in Motion”.

Does your home work for you or against you? If your air filtration system is truly efficient, there should be little dust to clean up. Environmental Health & Engineering and professors from the Harvard School of Public Health show that the installation of an AccuClean air filtration system reduces dust accumulation in the home by more than 50 percent. Dust less and still have a healthier, cleaner home environment.

Madeline L Zachery has been teaching etiquette and modeling for over 41 years. She has facilitated programs for many local organizations. She is the owner of Madeline’s Modeling & Talent Agency. For more information or private coaching on Poise & Etiquette, you may contact Madeline at (269) 207-3286.

Keeley says she has tried the whole spring cleaning thing and found one thing to be true - it gets messy all over again. The trick is not in cleaning your home, but in keeping your home clean. With regular maintenance and some smart steps, you'll find plenty of time to get out and enjoy spring, rather than focus on one massive home clean-up.

Greater Kalamazoo Edition • May 2009

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Greater Kalamazoo Edition • May 2009

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Are You Getting Your

Beauty Sleep?

Do you wake up in the morning with lower back pain, shoulder pain and stiffness? Are you losing sleep? If so, it may be time for a new mattress.

The Better Sleep Council (BSC) recommends evaluating your current mattress by asking yourself four basic questions to determine if it's time for a mattress upgrade: • Is your mattress 5-7 years old or older?

• Do you wake up with stiffness, numbness, aches and pains?

• Do you get a better night's sleep somewhere other than your own bed (such as a hotel)?

• Does your mattress show visible signs of overuse (sags, stains, etc.)?

A poor mattress can lead to sleep loss.

And when you lose sleep, you lose stamina. According to a national survey sponsored BCS, respondents getting nine hours of sleep or more are more likely to engage in higher-intensity workouts, including biking, running and/or weight lifting.

"Sleep deprivation impacts us physically, which can negatively affect our coordination, agility, mood and energy," says Dr. Bert Jacobson, professor and head of the School of Educational Studies at Oklahoma State University. "Research shows that sleeping better and longer leads to improvements in athletic performance, including faster sprint time, better endurance, lower heart rate, and even improved mood and higher levels of energy during a workout."

BSC offers these tips for selecting the right mattress: • For proper support, a mattress and foundation must support the body at all points with the spine in the same shape as a person with good standing posture.

• Ask the salesperson if they can show you illustrated or actual “cutaways” of the interior of the different mattress and foundation choices so you can see what’s inside.

• Compare store services such as delivery, financing and removal of old bedding as well.

Many retailers today offer mattress removal service as part of your purchase price or for a nominal fee.

• Shop for the best value, not the lowest price.

The best assurance for good mattress performance over many years is to buy the highest quality sleep set you can afford.

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shorter than you are, seek shade.

Protect the Skin Your In The American Academy of Dermatology cites that sun exposure is the most preventable risk factor for all skin cancers, including melanoma.

• Protect children from sun exposure by playing in the shade, using protective clothing and applying sunscreen.

When it comes to protecting your skin from the sun’s harmful rays, AAD recommends being Sun Smart by following these guidelines:

• Use extra caution near water, snow and sand as they reflect the damaging rays of the sun, which can increase your chance of sunburn.

• Generously apply a water-resistant sunscreen with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of at least 15 that provides broad-spectrum protection from both ultraviolet A (UVA) and ultraviolet B (UVB) rays to all exposed skin. Re-apply every two hours, even on cloudy days, and after swimming or sweating. Look for the AAD Seal of Recognition on products that meet these criteria.

• Get vitamin D safely through a healthy diet that may include vitamin supplements.

Don't seek the sun.

TM

• Wear protective clothing, such as a longsleeved shirt, pants, a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses, where possible.

• Seek shade when appropriate, remembering that the sun's rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. If your shadow is

Web Site Offers Relationship Resources to Couples To better understand current attitudes about marriage, National Healthy Marriage Resource Center (NHMRC) conducted a quantitative survey of 3,600 young adults aged 18 to 30. Overall, the survey found that young adults aspire to be married and believe that a healthy marriage is within reach. And, the #1 reason to take the plunge is "love," (87 percent) followed closely by "lifelong commitment" (72 percent). Only 31% saw "having children" as a reason to get married.

Based on these findings, NHMRC has

Greater Kalamazoo Edition • May 2009

• Avoid tanning beds. Ultraviolet light from the sun and tanning beds can cause skin cancer and wrinkling. If you want to look like you've been in the sun, consider using a sunless self-tanning product, but continue to use sunscreen with it.

• Check your birthday suit on your birthday. If you notice anything changing, growing or bleeding on your skin, see a dermatologist. Skin cancer is very treatable when caught early.

launched a public education campaign on marriage and created www.TwoOfUs.org, an interactive Web site that provides people with direct access to relationship resources.

"We want to get people talking about the complexity of healthy marriages and provide tools and tips for making relationships work during challenging times," says Mary Myrick, NAMRC project director.

Paul Amato, professor of sociology at Penn State University, agrees. “During these tough economic times, relationships can be severely impacted. It is more important now than ever to provide solid information and tools to help couples.”

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Decorating Trends Draw Inspiration from Nature “Nature inspires decorating trends that are simple, yet grand. What you might see on a stroll through your local park has become the backdrop for interior designers and do-it-yourself home decorators across the country,” says Susan Atchison, manager of trend development for Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft Stores.

Spring into Summer with these inspiring ideas.

1. Emulate outdoor serenity.

“Lush leaves and exquisite florals convey outdoor serenity,” says Atchison. She notes that creating a peaceful element within your home might be as simple as adding a flower or greenery arrangement. “It's amazing what plant life can do to liven a room. A vase of flowers in the bathroom can make your morning routine more cheery, or a green centerpiece on the kitchen table might make dinner a miniretreat from the long day at work.”

Whether fresh or silk, use leaves and flowers to bring a touch of classic nature into your home. Bright colors have pick-me-up appeal, while earthy tones convey calmness. Match complementary options with the current color scheme of your home, or combine to celebrate the harmony of the season.

2. Make practical pretty.

The things you use on a regular basis in your home are often the things that don't have a lot of flair. But this spring, practical items are getting a stylistic boost with new designs and fresh ideas that make them stand out.

“Flowerpots made of fabric are undoubtedly one of the freshest ideas for spring,” says Atchison. She suggests creating your own by using durable yet breathable Sun N Shade outdoor fabrics to create fun yet functional pots (instructions on right).

From bright, eye-catching colors, to earthy, subtle tones, choose fabrics that mimic your favorite theme, whether you plan to use these planters indoors or out. At the end of the season, you can fold for easy storage and use next year.

fabric flowerpots courtesy of

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Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft Stores

SUPPLIES & TOOLS: • 1/3 yd each 54” Sun N Shade™ fabrics, 2 prints • Basic sewing supplies • Sewing machine • Iron DIRECTIONS: 1. Cut a 10”x18” rectangle from each fabric.

2. For each rectangle, sew short ends (right sides) together, forming a tube with 1/4” seam allowance. Leave a 2” opening in the middle of the lining seam.

Press seam open.

3. For both lining and exterior, press tube flat with seam in the middle and sew one end together with

5.

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a 1/4” seam allowance to form bottom.

Form gussets by matching bottom seam to fold on one side and flatten forming a point.

Draw a mark at the fold on each side, 2” from the point end, and draw a line between the marks forming a triangle. Sew along the mark and trim off the excess triangle. Repeat on other side.

With right sides together, drop lining into fabric flowerpot, pin the top edge and sew all around.

Turn inside out through lining side seam, push lining into flowerpot and press as needed. Turn top of flowerpot down to form cuff.

Fill fabric flowerpot with potting soil and plant.

Provide adult supervision if children participate in this project.

3. Refresh what you already have.

Atchison suggests using polymer clay to add nature-inspired designs to different glass items you have around your house. For example, take a set of wine glasses and use different shades of green clay to create leaves on the outside of the glass.

Bake the glass with the new clay design for 30 minutes at 230ºF and you'll have an entirely new glass set to toast the sunset. Consider updating other items in your home such as plain vases, candy dishes and hand and lotion dispensers. According to Atchison, pretty much anything made of plain glass is a potential subject.

For more ideas visit www.Joann.com.

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Greater Kalamazoo Edition • May 2009

Greater Kalamazoo Edition â&#x20AC;˘ May 2009

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Greater Kalamazoo Edition â&#x20AC;˘ May 2009

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Greater Kalamazoo Edition • May 2009

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Fit for a Beauty Queen

By Katie Harger

Whether at the gym or in the privacy of your own home, here are some effective yet simple excercises -demonstrated by Sara Moylan, Mrs. Michigan 2008.

Building strong muscle tone is key to improving your metabolism, your stamina and your shape.

Start now and be fit for summer!

Please remember to check with your medical professional before starting any excercise program.

Sara Moylan is shown working out at 2 Intense Fitness in Jenison, Mich.

The vertical leg crunch is an effective move for the rectus abdominis and the obliques.

1.

The Bicycle exercise is the best move to target the rectus abdominis (i.e., the 'six pack') and the obliques (the waist).

1. Lie face up on the floor and lace your fingers behind your head.

2. Bring the knees in toward the chest and lift the shoulder blades off the ground without pulling on the neck.

3. Straighten the left leg out to about a 45-degree angle while simultaneously turning the upper body to the right, bringing the left elbow toward the right knee.

4. Switch sides, bringing the right elbow toward the left knee.

5. Continue alternating sides in a 'pedaling' motion for 12-16 reps.

Lie face up on the floor and extend the legs straight up.

2. Contract the abs to lift the shoulder blades off the floor, as though reaching your chest towards your feet.

3. Keep the legs in a fixed position and imagine bringing your belly button toward your spine at the top of the movement.

4. Lower and repeat for 12-16 reps.

The plank exercise is a great way to build endurance in both the abs and back, as well as stabilizer muscles.

1. Lie face down on mat resting on the forearms, palms flat on the floor.

2. Push off the floor, raising up onto toes and resting on the elbows.

3. Keep your back flat, in a straight line from head to heels.

4. Tilt your pelvis and contract your abdominals to prevent your rear end from sticking up in the air.

5. Hold for 20 to 60 seconds, then release and raise arm into the air and bring it below your body while balancing on your other arm, alternating sides.

Get your gluteus medius and hamstrings in tip-top shape with these basic lunges.

1. Stand in a split stance. You want both knees to be at about 90-degree angles at the bottom of the movement, so adjust accordingly.

2. Hold weights (1 pound for beginners; 3 pounds for advanced) in each hand.

3. Bend the knees and lower the back knee

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Greater Kalamazoo Edition â&#x20AC;˘ May 2009

toward the floor, keeping the front heel down and the knee directly over the center of the foot.

4. Keep the torso straight and abs tucked in.

As you push through the front heel, lift your back leg and return to starting position.

5. Don't lock the knees at the top of the movement.

6. Perform 1-3 sets of 10-16 reps.

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Greater Kalamazoo Edition â&#x20AC;˘ May 2009

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Greater Kalamazoo Edition â&#x20AC;˘ May 2009

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Celebrate the Easy Way

All materials courtesy of Ortega & Family Features

C

inco de Mayo is a fun and festive holiday that’s celebrated with music, dancing, family and delicious food. To bring great Mexican flavors to your fiesta, take a lesson from Maria Conception Jacinta Dominguez Ortega – also known as Mama Ortega.

In the 1800s, Mama Ortega created a loving home for her 13 children, and it centered around a tiny kitchen.

From her small charcoal-burning stove, Mama created memorable meals her family loved. Everything for each meal was homegrown, handpicked and homemade.

You may not have your own home-grown ingredients, but you can take advantage of authentic ingredients used in the line of Ortega Mexican Foods products. Fire-roasted chiles, authentic taco seasonings, crisp taco shells made with whole kernel corn are just a few of the ways that Ortega brings authentic Mexican flavor and fun to your family’s dinner table.

Chili Con Queso Dip

Slow-Cooked Shredded Beef Tacos 6 to 8 servings 1 1/2 1 1 1

pounds beef chuck roast medium onion, sliced cup water Ortega Grande Taco Dinner Kit (includes 8 hard taco shells, 8 soft flour tortillas, 1 packet taco seasoning mix, 1 packet taco sauce and 1 packet Land O Lakes Cheese Sauce) 1 can (4 ounces) Ortega Diced Green Chiles

Makes about 3 cups 1 package (16 ounces) pasteurized processed cheese spread, cut into chunks 1 cup Ortega Thick and Chunky Mild Salsa 1 can (4 ounces) Ortega Fire-Roasted Diced Green Chiles 1 package (10 count) Ortega Tostada Shells or 1 package (12-count) Ortega Taco Shells, broken into pieces Additional Ortega Fire-Roasted Diced Green Chiles (optional) Chopped tomatoes (optional) Combine cheese, salsa and chilies in small saucepan. Cook and stir over low heat until fully melted and blended.

Serve warm with tostada or taco shells. Garnish with additional chilies and tomatoes, if desired.

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Greater Kalamazoo Edition • May 2009

Optional toppings: shredded lettuce, chopped tomato, shredded mild cheddar cheese, sour cream Place beef and onion in 4-quart slow cooker. Combine water and seasoning mix from kit in small bowl. Pour over beef and onion. Cover and cook on LOW 6 to 8 hours or until fork tender.

Transfer beef to cutting board; shred beef with two forks. Place in large bowl. Stir in taco sauce from kit and chilies.

Fill warmed taco shells and tortillas from kit with beef mixture. Top with cheese sauce from kit. Garnish with desired toppings.

Carne Asada Crostinis Serves 2 as an appetizer.

9 oz. Skirt Steak – sliced thin 3 oz. Canned Whole Peeled Tomatoes (Dellalo Brand) 1 oz. Olive Oil ½ lime Fresh Cilantro - to taste Kosher Salt Cracked Black Peppercorns Adobo Seasoning - to taste 3 oz. Homemade Pico De Gallo 2 oz. Cheddar cheese 2oz, 3 Baguette Crostinis.

1 Lime (Optional) In a stain-less steel or plastic bowl mix: tomatoes, olive oil, a squeeze of 1/2 a lime, Adobo Seasoning, Kosher salt and black peppercorn.

Add skirt steak and toss. Let marinate for 10 minutes. Sauté in large sauté' pan until the meat reaches medium-rare. Arrange beef on crostini bread, top with homemade pico de gallo (see recipe below) and shredded cheddar. Garnish with slice lime if desired.

Easy Empanadas 12 empanadas 1 cup prepared refrigerated barbecue shredded pork 2 tablespoons Ortega Taco Sauce, any variety 1 tablespoon Ortega Fire-Roasted Diced Green Chilies 1 can (12-ct) refrigerated biscuits 1 egg, well beaten 1 cup Ortega Black Bean and Corn Salsa Preheat oven to 375°F. Mix pork, taco sauce and chilies in small bowl.

Separate biscuits into 12 pieces. Flatten each biscuit into 6-inch round, using rolling pin. Divide filling evenly among biscuits, spreading over half of each round to within 1/4 inch of edge. Fold dough over filling; press edges with fork to seal well. Place on ungreased cookie sheet.

Brush tops with beaten egg.

Bake 12 to 15 minutes or until edges are golden brown. Immediately remove from cookie sheet. Serve warm with salsa for dipping.

Homemade Pico de Gallo: Complements of: 2 T. Fresh Cilantro 1 C. Fresh Tomato ½ C. White Onion 1 – 2 Serrano Peppers 1 Lime – Squeezed Salt &Pepper – to taste Dice cilantro, tomatoes, onion and peppers.

Mix together with lime – salt and pepper.

(Adobo Seasoning available at La Mexicana on Portage Rd. or most other Mexican Markets)

Greater Kalamazoo Edition • May 2009

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Spizerinctum! om stood 5’2” in her stocking feet and weighed about 98 pounds. She had never experienced any major medical problem. Her only hospital admissions involved giving birth to my brother and me. A healthier specimen of womanhood nowhere could be found. Therefore, Mom caught us by complete surprise on that morning in 1966 when she announced at breakfast, “I think there’s a small lump in my right breast. I’d better have the doctor check it out.” She then calmly finished eating her oatmeal. I must admit that my heart sank.

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It wasn’t until the morning of December 31 that I noticed a difference in Mom. As we gathered for breakfast, she smiled with purpose. “We’re going to celebrate tonight,” she declared. “We usually go to the New Year’s Eve party at church and stay for the midnight candlelight service. Tonight, we’re going!” To say that I was surprised would be an understatement. Mom hadn’t left the house for weeks and had shown no signs of wanting to go anywhere or to see anyone.

After talking it over with Dad, Mom agreed to the surgery so the doctor scheduled her for hospital admittance. None of us showed any signs of real worry. After all, the doctor had said that the only problem was a cyst that needed to be removed. We all piled into the car on the day of surgery and headed to the hospital. Dad completed the necessary paperwork, while Mom and I made plans for Christmas – only a few short weeks away. After Mom was admitted, the staff directed us to a room where we could wait.

It seemed like hours before Dad came back to the hospital room where I awaited Mom’s return from recovery. “The doctor performed a radical mastectomy,” he said with a stunned look on his face. “It was only supposed to be minor surgery.” He then explained, “The doctor removed her entire right breast.”

With assurances that the cancer had been completely removed and no further treatment would be required, the doctor released Mom from the hospital a few days later. But it was a subdued Mom who climbed up the stairs to our apartment. I helped her undress and she quietly climbed into bed.

Breast cancer treatment has made great strides since Mom’s surgery in 1966. Yet, the mention of the big “C” still strikes fear into the hearts of many women. Statistics clearly show that women more frequently undergo preventive examinations and seek earlier treatment. Reconstructive surgery is commonplace. Women are

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An essay by Esther A. Middlewood

The Christmas holidays seemed a little tarnished that year. We went through the motions, but our hearts didn’t get the message.

At least I didn’t think they did. Dad put up and decorated the tree. I did the Christmas shopping and wrapped packages. The holiday came and went without a lot of fanfare. Mom discouraged visitors, so we limited Christmas to just the family – Mom, Dad and me.

Mom made an appointment with our family doctor who quickly referred her to a surgeon. “Well, I don’t see anything alarming,” reported the surgeon after a physical examination. “It looks like you’ve formed a cyst and we should probably remove it.”

A short time later, the nurse established an IV line and started to prepare Mom for surgery. “You’ll need to sign this release,” the nurse told Mom. “It’s just a precaution.

If surgery reveals any signs of cancer, the doctor will proceed to remove it.” Mom signed her permission and preparation for surgery continued. Little did she know the extent of the surgery that would be required or performed. “You can wait here,” the nurse told me while Dad followed the gurney out of the room.

A Daughter Remembers Her Mother’s Journey with Breast Cancer

As she prepared for the party that evening, Mom grabbed some nylons out of her dresser and stuffed them into the right cup of her bra. “Esther, come and see if I look balanced,” she called. more aware of their options and support groups are available to help with the emotional struggles that sometimes follow. However, forty some years ago, that was not the case. Dad and I formed Mom’s only support group.

Mom came home from the hospital feeling depressed and afraid to look at herself in the mirror. All of our support and assurances fell on deaf ears. Afterwards, Mom admitted that she believed Dad would think less of her because of her surgery. She felt as though her body had been mutilated. She declared, “I simply had to get over feeling sorry for myself. Vanity never did sit too well on my shoulders.”

“Come here, Esther,” she called from the bathroom one morning. I reluctantly opened the door and entered the room. “It’s not so bad,” Mom said as I looked at the angry red scar on her chest. My heart sank once again as I looked into her eyes as saw the tears forming. It clearly impacted her more than she wanted to admit to me. She pulled her robe closed and I gently hugged her.

“I love you, Mom,” I cried. I tenderly wiped her eyes with a piece of tissue.

“We’ll get through this,” Mom affirmed. “I can’t even use my right arm properly,” she complained as she tried to brush her hair. I took the brush and began stroking her hair.

Greater Kalamazoo Edition • May 2009

“What are you talking about?” I asked.

“Just get in here!” Mom responded.

She stood in the bedroom doorway. “How do I look?” She turned to the right and then to the left, looking at her reflection in the full-length mirror. “Not bad!” she told herself. She coined a new word that night. “I’m full of spizerinctum,” she declared. “That’s the feeling that I can conquer anything this world can throw at me.”

As tears coursed down my cheeks, I knew that Mom had really recovered. She had regained her determination, courage and hope. Needless to say, we all enjoyed the New Year’s Eve party – Mom most of all.

It would be a tidy story if I could say that all went well, but Mom passed away a few years later. Her cancer had returned. Yet, her experience reminds me of the importance of regular examinations. Over the years, I too have undergone surgery twice. Both times the lumps tested negative – no cancer!

Others have not been so blessed. My friends Sherry, Donna and Faith have shared Mom’s battle with cancer over the years. They are breast cancer survivors and have won their victories with determination, courage and hope.

They too are full of “spizerinctum.”

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With online databases and research tools, it's easier than ever to start putting the pages of your family story together, preserving your heritage and passing it on to future generations.

Have you ever wondered if you were related to someone famous? Did you grow up hearing stories about a distant relative and wonder if they were true? Or are you curious about what part of the world your family really came from?

If so, you're not alone. Millions of people are asking the same questions and trying to find the answers.

Create a family tree.

You can easily create a family tree online with what you already know. Begin with yourself and add your parents and grandparents. Record each person's name, birthplace, birth date, death place and death date. If you don't know the exact information, take your best guess - vague clues can lead to amazing finds. Family members may be able to help as well.

Courtesy of Ancestry.com

Search historical records Online historical records are full of clues that connect individuals and events in your family history. From military records to census records to old newspaper archives, there's an entire host of resources available when researching your family tree.

Preserve your own family treasures.

Besides online content, what family treasures are hidden in your shoebox, your attic, even your garage? Look for family Bibles, photographs, diaries, letters and - most importantly - birth, marriage and death certificates.

Scan these items and add them to your family tree to preserve for future generations.

Older relatives, in particular, can often provide a wealth of information, stories, pictures and other family heirlooms. Create a scrapbook to share with others.

Collaborate with a community.

Search other peoples' family trees and communicate with them through online message boards or other social networks. You can share information, ask questions, receive help and add new and surprising details to your family story.

Share your discoveries.

Share the excitement by inviting family members and friends to view your tree. Then encourage them to add old photos, stories or historical records to help your tree grow even more.

We're all reflections of the ancestors who came before us - from our natural talents to the places we live and traditions we honor. Understanding our ancestors truly helps us understand ourselves.

Branching Out: Getting the Kids Involved Involving children in your genealogy research is a great family project. Some activities include:

• Let them play detective by helping you find old photographs or mementos in the attic or basement.

• Challenge computer-savvy kids to use their skills to help research online resources for more family clues.

• Ask children to interview a grandparent with questions such as what they did for a living, memories of favorite relatives or what they did for fun when they were their age.

Digging Up Information There's a wealth of data available online, but you need to know where to look. Records such as these are constantly updated with new information.

• Census records can tell you where your ancestors lived, where they were born, what their occupation was, names of family members and other clues to the family puzzle.

• Newspaper collections carry birth, marriage and death notices, all of which provide valuable family information. You may also find your ancestor's name mentioned in legal or social notices, articles or advertisements.

• Military records also hold important clues. You can search for your family military heroes in records from the Revolutionary War to the Vietnam War. Draft registration cards hold personal statistics such as height, weight and eye color. Service records tell you what unit your relative served in, and whether they were injured or received commendations.

A success story Amanda Bloom, of Huntington Beach, Calif., heard a family mystery story from her mother that she just had to solve. Amanda's grandfather served in World War II. While he was gone, his first wife placed their son and two daughters in an orphanage. Amanda's mother, born from a second marriage, didn't find out about these siblings until she was a teenager and had always wondered what had become of them. As a present for her mother's 60th birthday, Amanda began the search tofind them.

Victor Upton circa 1936 Age 2

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Greater Kalamazoo Edition • May 2009

She started by joining Ancestry.com, the largest online source of family history information. She was able to learn some research techniques and started searching records in the 26,000 databases. "I obtained copies of my grandfather's naval records, confirming his children's birth names and birth dates," she said. She then found birth and death records on the site and she used census records to learn more about the family. This information led her to a long-lost living relative.

"I made my mother's lifelong dream of knowing her siblings come true," said Amanda. "I found her brother living in the Midwest. I was a little apprehensive to contact him, but when I did, it was one big cry fest!" He told Amanda that she had filled a void that had been with him his entire life. He was only six-years old when the family was split up, and had spent his life wondering what had happened to his sisters. Together, they later found his sisters and have all since met and grown very close.

Illustration courtesy of Julie Delton/Photodisc/Getty Images

What's your story?

So what secrets are waiting to be discovered about the people who made you who you are today? "Our roots influence us in ways we can't even imagine," said Loretto Szucs, a genealogist at www.Ancestry.com.

"Studying your family history actually lets you discover more about yourself."

Style

Conquer Your Clutter

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The seams of your spring closet are bursting with a mishmash of individual styles, but you can’t see past the clutter. Should you purge it all and go out and buy more, or is there something to love in what you already have? How can you see the possibilities and find a fresh style? Professional image consultant Mary Leslie (www.thelesliestudio.com) reminds us that “a great wardrobe is one that feels great today. If your wardrobe has lost the punch, what can you do to give it some spice?”

All Your Own

By Alexandra Fix

Balance Your Collection A balanced wardrobe includes different textures, colors and neutrals. Textures should range from knits to silks and from matte to shiny fabric finishes. Be sure there is color – your colors—as well as the neutrals that suit you. “Neutrals are the bones of the wardrobe,” Mary notes. These are the whites, khakis, beiges, tans, taupes, blacks, charcoals, loden greens and browns.

Since 1982, Leslie has utilized make-up, skin care, color and wardrobe to help thousands of women spice up their unique styles. Leslie advocates revamping your clothes closet by restyling. Here’s how:

She also recommends including movement in your wardrobe.

“Movement,” Mary explains, “is related to the hand of the fabric, the way that it falls. We see this in the way a bias skirt moves with a woman’s walk… no matter what [her] body shape. Movement keeps the wardrobe alive.”

Create a Fashion Collage

Find the Right Lengths

The easiest way to get started is to create your own personal fashion collage. What speaks to you in clothing design? To find out, collect a few style magazines as well as your newest clothing catalogs. Now, have some fun: Thumb through and tear out what you love. Look for styles, colors, shapes and fabrics that catch your eye. Overlap and paste your choices on a large paper or in a notebook to create a fashion collage. Watch your style emerge.

Today, so many different lengths are used together as layers. Individually worn though, Mary says, “We all have three lengths that look good for us – long, medium and short.” Exactly where those three lengths are most attractive varies with every individual.

She recommends the following exercise:

Categorize the Closet Before you add more clothes or accessories, find out what you already have. Arrange your closet by grouping together tank tops, turtlenecks, blouses, jackets, pants, skirts and such. Then arrange them by color, from light to dark. Now, step back and take a look.

What do you have? What are you missing? Arrange your work and casual clothes separately and focus on one group at a time.

Spring

Projects

Put on a pair of tights and undergarments (so that you’re not focused on perceived body flaws that may distract you) and pool a sheet on the floor at your feet. Now, slowly lift the sheet up your body to expose your legs. Stop where it looks good for a long, a medium and then a short hem length. Reverse draping can be done to define what type of neck or shoulder exposure is most attractive for you.

Choose the Right Colors Although Mary tends to think that choosing suitable colors is often innate, there’s nothing like having a color analysis done by a professional. It really is fun and enlightening to have someone in the know offer their advice about the colors that bring out your true beauty.

Be Your Own Fashionista Once you’ve seen what your closet holds, you can begin to create combinations. Let your imagination play with the possibilities.

Take digital photos of the outfit combos you see and print them out. Start a wardrobe notebook and list what to shop for. Call a moratorium on buying any more of the colors or styles that have invaded your closet.

For more fun wardrobing ideas, check out www.closetcouture.com. Here you can download photos of your current wardrobe and clothes on your wish list and create virtual outfit combinations.

Five Ways to Save 20-40% on Home Renovation Costs

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o you feel like you’re “stuck” with your home due to the housing market? If you’re not able to make a move, you can still make improvements to your own home, and save money while doing it. Kevin Nixon, professional project manager and author of the new book "Contract It Yourself" (www.contractityourself.com), offers five tips to make remodeling or rebuilding a home cost-effective.

Be the Contractor/Project Supervisor Yourself. You don’t have to hire a professional; you can wear that important hat yourself. On a $300,000 project, you can save the $60,000 to $120,000 you would pay a contractor.

Use the Building Department and Prevent Costly Mistakes. The Building Department will verify plans, give advice on every aspect of the building or remodeling job and make sure you are not violating codes – all before you invest a dime. These city or county employees know the requirements of a potential project cold. Have them review a sketch outlining your plan. If you are building, you can check on the legal use of the land you want to purchase, zoning, etc. Once you have approval on a basic plan, it is easy to get a draftsman’s or architect’s drawing to execute the project and obtain the permits to start your job!

COLLEGE NIGHT NIGHT TThursday, hursday, Mayy 14, $5 tickets with student ID ID PPAY-WHAT-YOU-CAN AY-WHAT-YO Y U-CAN SUNDAY SUNDAY Sunday, May 17, 17, Minimum $5 donation POST-CONCERT POST T-CONCCERT TALK TALK Join the choreographers choreeographers and dancers after after the concert onn TThursday, hursday, May 14.

KA L AMAZOO O IINSTITUTE NSTITUTE O KALAMAZOO OFF ARTS PPERFORMANCE: ERFORMANCE N : SUNDAY, SUNDAAY, M AY 10 MAY Premier performance per forrmance of Ms. TTerry’s err y ’s new work, Big”, “I’ll Paint Paint it Bi g””, 4 and 4:30 pm, at the KIA KIA in partnership with the Georgia g OO’Keeffe ’Keeffe and HHer er TTimes imes exhi ibit. Free Free with paid admission. exhibit.

Use Licensed, Bonded and Insured Contractors. While you supervise the job, you need professional sub-contractors to do the actual work. NEVER skimp with an unlicensed non-professional.

You need pros to get the results you want and to meet lender requirements. Your lender will also advise of any other requirements you must meet to keep your lender happy and funds flowing.

Work out a Timeline and Budget for Each Step of the Project. Outline each step you or the “sub” will take, in what sequence and how much time it will take and how much money is planned for each part of the job. Lining up your sub-contractors and overseeing how they are progressing on the timeline helps you eliminate long waiting periods, missing steps, or overlapping sequences.

Be sure to include scheduling inspections; those all-important officials can stop your work or help you keep it flowing.

PHOTO:DAVID PHO TO:DAVID KAMM KAMM

Purchase Your Own Materials. You can save hundreds, even thousands of dollars with this tip, while keeping to the quality you desire. This does not mean buying lumber or other building items best left to the sub-contractor. Picking out and directly purchasing appliances, fixtures, flooring and such can save a bundle. Watch for sales; buy seasonal items early; use “scratch and dent” when flaws won’t show. With these simple steps you can find high-end goods at tract housing prices.

SPONSORED S PONSORED BYY

SUPPORTED IN P PART A ART BY

SPRING CONCERT CONCERT OF DANCE DANCE TTHURSDAY-SATURDAY HURSDAY--SAATU T RDAAY MA MAYY 14-16, 8 PM M t SU SUNDAY, NDAAY, MA MAY AY 17, 2 PM

t WWW WELLSPRING TTHEATER WELLSPRING HEATER AATT THE EPIC EPIC CENTER CENTER t WWW.WELLSPRINGDANCE.ORG .WELLSPRINGDANCE.ORG hildren ages 5 and younger free ID t CChildren $20 general admission, $10 with student ID Tickets: Tickets: Epic Epic Center Center Box Office Office t WWW WWW.MILLERAUDITORIUM.COM .MILLERAUD A ITORIUM.COM t 269/387-2300

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Heavy Periods

By Robyn Hubbard M.D.

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ave you ever had to adjust your plans to accommodate your period? According to the National Women’s Health Resource Center, more than 56 percent of women have to make adjustments to their daily lives because of heavy periods.

I’d like to tell you about Nancy, a 43-year-old patient of mine who came to see me last week with complaints of heavy bleeding. Nancy used to have periods about once a month that lasted 4 or 5 days. Recently, her periods have gotten much longer, up to 10-12 days. Her flow can be so heavy that for 2 days she is afraid to leave the house. She finally scheduled the appointmentwith me when she leaked through her clothes at work and decided she was fed up.

Nancy’s story is not unusual. Nearly every day in my practice as a gynecologist I meet women whose lives are significantly affected by their periods. This may mean rescheduling or cancelling vacations, avoiding intercourse, or skipping activities or missing work because of heavy bleeding.

What is abnormal bleeding?

• Periods closer together than 21 days • Menstrual flow longer than 7 days • Needing to change your pad or tampon more than every 1 to 2 hours • Midcycle bleeding or bleeding after intercourse • Heavy period bleeding that leads to iron deficiency anemia What causes abnormal bleeding?

Several things can cause abnormal bleeding including a hormone imbalance, polyps, fibroids (benign muscle tumors of the uterus), infection and cancer.

What should I do if I have abnormal bleeding?

I recommend that you make an appointment with a gynecologist to be evaluated. An appointment for abnormal bleeding will usually include a detailed history of your periods, medical and surgical history, family history and medications. The doctor will then perform a pelvic examination that may include a pap smear (test for cervical cancer), infection screens, and feeling for any tenderness or masses. The next step usually includes an endometrial biopsy, where a thin straw-like tube is passed through the cervix (opening to the uterus) to collect cells from the lining of the uterus (the endometrium). The doctor may then order a special ultrasound test called a sonohysterogram.

During this test, a small amount of water is placed into the cavity of the uterus while the ultrasound takes pictures.

This test shows detailed pictures of the uterus, ovaries and the cavity or lining of the uterus where polyps and fibroids often lie.

What can be done to treat abnormal bleeding?

There are great options to treat heavy periods that are minimally invasive, easy and offer great success. Of course, your health care provider must take into account your own history when offering treatment, but for many an endometrial ablation is a great option. Other choices may include hormones such as birth control pills, D&C (dilation and curettage) where the endometrium is scraped and polyps can be removed, or hysterectomy.

Endometrial ablation is a procedure that destroys the lining of the uterus (endometrium). There are several devices on the market that can accomplish this. I prefer the Novasure device which uses radio energy-like cautery to burn the lining. The Thermachoice device uses a balloon filled with hot water to burn the lining, while the Hydrothermablation uses hot, circulating water. Other devices are

laser, microwave and freezing. The goal is to destroy as much of the lining of the uterus as possible, so that when your hormones trigger the uterus to build up a lining and then to shed it for a period, very little if nothing happens.

This doesn’t change your hormones at all; it just reduces the bleeding.

Women who are candidates for endometrial ablation need to be done having children. I insist that they have permanent birth control like a vasectomy or a tubal ligation to ensure that they won’t get pregnant after an ablation (serious problems arise if a baby tries to grow on a lining that isn’t growing properly).

Can you do the ablation in the office?

Endometrial ablations can be performed in the doctor’s office. This has opened the door to many women having minor surgery under local anesthesia, or light sedation, going home an hour later, and being back at work the next day. Not only is it safe and effective, but the procedure is very convenient for patients.

What are the success rates with an endometrial ablation?

Each of the devices mentioned above have high success rates. I quote a greater than 80 percent success rate with significant reduction in monthly bleeding. The best part is that up to half of the women who have an endometrial ablation will have no more periods at all! Most people hope they will fall into this category.

In conclusion, I have found great results in offering in-office endometrial ablations to my appropriate patients with heavy periods. It has also helped to decrease the rates of hysterectomies (surgical removal of the uterus) my patients need.

For more infornation: Contact your gynecologist or ask you primary care provider for a referral. Web sites that may be useful include: www.womenshealthnetwork.org www.4woman.gov www.novasure.com www.endheavyperiods.com (Thermachoice)

Robyn Hubbard, MD is a practicing obstetrician and gynecologist with Grand Rapids Women’s Health.

She has three children: 12-year-old Hailey, and 9-year-old twins, Christopher and Allison.

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Star-Inspired Ideas For Healthy Looking Skin “Over the past years, I have tried other facial cleansers but found the Purpose Gentle Cleansing Wash to be the only soap-free cleanser that won’t dry my skin or burn my eyes,” said Herbst. “The product is gentle enough for me to use right after I get my microdermabrasion treatments.”

Rebecca also affirms that she never leaves the house without applying the Dual Treatment Moisture Lotion with SPF 15.

“It keeps my skin hydrated without irritating it, and it protects my skin from sun damage, rain or shine.”

Rebecca Herbst

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eneral Hospital soap star Rebecca Herbst gets microdermabrasion about once every other month to keep her skin looking and feeling healthy. To prevent her skin from irritation and dryness between treatments, she relies on a consistent skin-care regimen.

And what does she do when she can’t get to the dermatologist to get a microdermabrasion treatment? “I enjoy scrubs and masks that I can do at home, and I always make sure to keep my skin-care regimen consistent because I believe consistency is one of the most important keys to healthy skin.”

Two of the most popular procedures and treatments being used by Tinseltown to smooth out imperfections and fine-tune facial skin include the prescription remedy Retin-A Micro (tretinoin) and microdermabrasion.

• Retin-A Micro is one of a family of tretinoin prescription topical creams that are similar to but stronger than retinol. This topical cream helps the skin to renew itself more quickly and may improve the appearance and texture of the skin. It has been shown to be effective in the treatment of acne, blackheads, whiteheads and pimples.

• Microdermabrasion is a non-chemical, superficial skin resurfacing procedure performed by an aesthetician to help improve dull, sun-damaged skin.

The noninvasive procedure involves waving a device that sprays tiny crystals across the face to gently removing the rough, outer layers of the skin, revealing fresh, softer skin from below.

Both Retin-A Micro and microdermabrasion can increase the sensitivity of skin to UVA and UVB rays and increase the chance of irritation and dryness.

That’s why it’s important to take care of skin between treatments with skin-care products that won’t irritate the skin further.

There are three reasons why you may want to pay a little more for your next pair of jeans: the fit, the fade and the detailing.

Premium denim tends to be very soft, and the fabric moves with your body for a more luxurious fit. All of the jeans featured here have a hint of elastane for stretch and comfort, and the craftsmanship is impeccable, with meticulously placed fading, distressed detailing, elegant embroidery and even wax finishing. You’re buying more than a pair of jeans; you’re buying a work of art. A pair of flattering jeans is a worthwhile investment, as timeless and versatile as the little black dress. Here are a few styles we couldn’t resist.

4. William Rast Savoy regular rise trouser jeans in Snow White, $228

By Sara Cosgrove For a polished look that carries over from daytime to evening, try these crisp white jeans by William Rast. They have a 7.5” rise with a 35” inseam. Sizes 26 to 32. Available at boutiques 1. Shams Zagora flare and womens apparel stores. jeans, $233 Straight from France, 5. William Rast Sadie straight leg jeans in these wet-look, black Archangle, $209 denim jeans are just the These straight leg jeans tuck perfectly into your fathing for a night on vorite pair of boots, with chic distressed detailing. the town. The wax finish Sizes 26 to 32. Available at boutiques and womens and metallic threading apparel stores. epitomize “glam 6. ANGelRoX vintage jeans for life, $168 rock.” Sizes 24 to 32.

These pull-on, five-pocket boot cut jeans are eco1 http://www.nationalfriendly and offer the look of denim with the comjeancompany.com fort of leggings. There are no zippers or buttons, and a mesh sash drapes over the hips. Gently 2. Hudson Jeans signature five-pocket boot cut in frayed edges add to the vintage look, and angel Ellis Wash, $176 wings are embroidered onto the back pockets.

Check out the signature triangle flap pockets on Sizes 0/2 (Feather), 2/4 (Bird), 4/6 (Wing), 8/10 these dark wash jeans. They also have a button (Song) and 12/14 (Joy). www.angelrox.com closure and a zip fly. Sizes 25 to 30.

AAvailable at boutiques and womens apparel stores.

7. Seven7 collection for Lane Bryant embossed pocket jean in medium sandblast, $69.50 The elaborate contrast stitching on these back pockets is sure to turn heads. They have a singlebutton closure with a zip fly. Plus-sizes 14 to 28.

Lane Bryant stores 8. Seven7 collection for Lane Bryant medium sandblast boot cut jean, $59.50 A subtle crosshatch pattern gives these jeans a cozy, worn-in look. The embroidered Seven7 swirl design accents the back pockets, and in the front there’s a single-button closure with a zip fly. Plussizes 14 to 28. Lane Bryant Stores 9. Levi’s Low Skinny 531 jeans, $59.50 to $98 Here is a best-selling skinny jean that’s meant to flatter a variety of body types. It comes in 12 colors, and Rosie ($98) will look amazing with your favorite pair of ballet flats. Fits low on the hips. Sizes offered are 0 to 16, short (30” inseam), medium (32” inseam) and long (34” inseam). Levi’s Stores

3. Citizens of Humanity Amber High Rise boot cut stretch jeans in Sierra Wash, $189 These super soft, medium wash jeans have an 8” rise. They are beautifully faded in the thighs and rear with contrast embroidery on the back pockets. Sizes 26 to 32. Available at boutiques and womens apparel stores.

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It’s easy to get listed in our Events Calendar. Our deadline is the 10th of the month prior to publication.

Email us at: wlskazoo@provide.net Please type Calendar in the subject line. Or you may mail your info to P. O. Box 2284, Portage MI 49081-2284 April 30 - May 3 Nelda K. Balch Playhouse Senior Performance Series - Festival Playhouse features the work of our “best and the brightest” in student-directed plays, young artists who support the great tradition at Kalamazoo College of students creating their own theatre. Thur., Fri., & Sat: 8 pm, Sun : 2 pm. Adults $15, Seniors/Students $10, Thurs. $1.

269-337-7333. www.kzoo.edu/theatre.

May 1 Downtown Kalamazoo Art Hop: 5:00 pm: Art galleries & businesses stay open to highlight a wide variety of different artists. Many locations offer hors d’oeuvres and beverages. Visitors can hop from one exhibit to another and learn, enjoy & purchase art directly from the artists. “Look Closer Friday” East Michigan - Downtown merchants, restaurants and entertainment venues join together for a huge happy hour celebration. The Look Closer event sections will feature a progressive appetizer party that is sure to complement the traditional Art Hop event and make visiting downtown adventuresome and artsy. 4 – 8 pm.

Free.

May 1 Sheri’s Fine Salon & Spa Open House Extravaganza!

6pm - 9pm at 2323 Gull Rd. Jeweler available to buy old jewelry. Complimentary chair massages / yoga demonstrations, and the chance to purchase items from local businesses. 269-226-8686 May 1 Wellspring Theater at the Epic Center International Dance Day Film Series: “The Birth of a Dance”, a documentary featuring Wellspring/Cori Terry & Dancers. Directed by Dhera Strauss. Time: 7:00 pm.

Admission: Free.

May 1 Kalamazoo Institute of Arts Art & All That Jazz. Take a guided tour of the Kirk Newman Art School and enjoy music by Great Lakes Grass.

5-7 pm. Free to KIA members, $4 for all others.

269-349-7775. www.kiarts.org.

May 1-3 Kalamazoo County Expo Center & Fairground, Rooms B, C & E Gem & Mineral Show. Friday is "Kid's Day" with many school field trips attending. Fri. 4 - 8 pm, Sat. 10 am 6 pm, Sun. 10 am - 5 pm. Adults $3, Children under 12 are free. 269-649-1991.

May 1-3 Cloud 9 Escape to Traverse City Stay. Play. Explore. Weekend at Grand Traverse Resort & Spa. Call all of your favorite friends now and plan to escape to Traverse City for a weekend full of FUN! Each Cloud 9 chick is responsible for their own transportation to the event and reservations for the Stay. Play.

Explore. Weekend can be made by calling 800-748-0303.

May 1-3 Downtown Kalamazoo Kalamazoo Symphony Orchestra League will host the High Notes of Downtown Living III, a tour of downtown Kalamazoo lofts, luxury condominiums and apartments.

For tickets and information, call (269) 349-7759.

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May 2 Parchment Community Library, Lower Level Family Game Day. Free event. 1 - 3 pm. No registration required. More information at 343-7747.

May 6 or 20 Kalamazoo Center for the Healing Arts Massage as a Profession Workshop. 6-8 pm. Free. Info @ 373-0910 or www.kcha.com.

May 2 & 3 Kalamazoo Ballet and Bullard School, 431 E South St Kalamazoo Ballet: "Alice in Wonderland". Sat. 2:30 & 4:30 pm, Sun. 3 & 5 pm. $12 General, $10 Seniors & Students, $8 Children 7 & younger. 269-387-2300.

May 6 Parchment Community Library, Lower Level Understanding Alzheimer's. Free program. 6-8:00 pm.

Registration required at 343-7747 or 342-1482 or register online at www.parchmentlibrary.org.

May 2 First Baptist Church, 315 W. Michigan Ave. All Ears Theatre: Rock Corry and His Cadet Rangers.

Reminiscent of radio and television shows of the 1950s, this story tells of their first mission as cadets, searching for the very rare energy source Venuvian in the far galaxy of Alpha Centauri. 6 pm. Free.

269-342-5059. www.KalamazooArts.com.

May 7 Kalamazoo Valley Museum Music at the Museum: "Who Hit John?”. Bluegrass.

7:30 pm. $5. 269-373-7990. www.kalamazoomuseum.org.

May 2 & 3 Kalamazoo Ballet and Bullard School, 431 E South St Kalamazoo Ballet: “Alice in Wonderland”. Artistic director Therese Bullard’s adaptation of the Lewis Carroll fantasy. Sat. 2:30 & 4:30 pm, Sun. 3 & 5 pm. $12 General, $10 Seniors & Students, $8 Children age 7 & younger. 269-387-2300.

May 2 Wellspring Theater at the Epic Center Wellspring’s Student Concert of Dance. 3pm & 4pm.

Admission: $3. www.wellspringdance.org.

May 3 First Baptist Church, 315 W. Michigan Ave. Kalamazoo Male Chorus Spring Concert. Celebration of the 81st year of performances with a blend of many types of music. 5 pm. Free. 269-342-5011.

May 4 IAAP –Kalamazoo Chapter Kalamazoo Chapter of the International Assoc. of Administrative. Professionals Monthly Meeting. Guests Welcome. Topic: Team Building. 5 – 8 pm. KRESA, 1819 East Milham, Portage. Cost : $12.00 (1st time guests no charge). Info @ www.iaap-kalamazoo.org To register: Betty Gruber 269.553.2709.

May 4 Wellspring Theatre Bravo! Musical Recital. Local high school musicians.

7:30 pm. 269-342-5059. www.KalamazooArts.com.

May 4, 11 Kalamazoo Nature Center Birding with the Stars. Join us for a guided morning bird hike where each week we will catch glimpses of different spring migrants returning to bountiful Michigan. Birders of all skill levels are welcome. Please bring binoculars and a field guide if you have them.

8 - 9:30 am. Free with regular KNC admission.

269-381-1574. www.NatureCenter.org.

May 5 Kalamazoo Institute of Arts ARTbreak: "Georgia O'Keeffe". In 1977, Geogia O'Keeffe - still vital and engaging at age 90 - reflects on her life and art in Perry Miller Adato's film. The artist's own words and striking images of the New Mexico landscape that inspired her bring her paintings to life.

12:15 pm. Free. 269-349-7775. www.kiarts.org.

May 7- 23 Whole Art Theatre "Dog Sees God: Confessions of a Teenage Blockhead".

The "Peanuts" gang grows up to be a bunch of troubled teens in this dark comedy. 8 pm. $20 General, $14 Seniors & $10 Students with ID. 269-345-7529. www.wholeart.org.

May 7 Temp Vino Winery of Kalamazoo Wine Tasting. Come out with your friends from the Resource Center for a wine tasting at Temp Vino Winery of Kalamazoo! 5:30 - 7:00 p.m. $20 per person.

269-349-4234. www.kqlrc.org.

May 8 – June 13 New Vic Theatre "Remember When". Musical tribute to the USO. Fri. & Sat. 8:30 pm. $25. 269-381-3328. www.newvictheatre.org.

May 8 – 23 Farmers Alley Theatre "Marvin's Room". Sharon Williams and Peg Small star in a comedy-drama about estranged sisters brought back together by a family crisis. Fri. & Sat. 8 pm, Sun. 2 pm. $22 Adults, $19 Seniors/Students.

269-343-2727. www.farmersalleytheatre.com.

May 8 – July 31 Air Zoo “In Plane View”, an exhibition of 56 large-format photographs by Carolyn Russo, showcases the aesthetic quality of some of the National Air and Space Museum's iconic aircraft Mon - Sat 9 am - 5 pm.

Sun 12 - 5 pm. 269-382-6555. www.airzoo.org.

May 8 Kalamazoo County Expo Center & Fairground, Hazel Gray & South Lawn National Children's Mental Health Awareness Day Carnival. Annual event presented by Kalamazoo Wraps that is a celebration to promote awareness of children's mental health issues and the services available for children and families in the Kalamazoo area. 3-7 pm. Free.

269-553-8110. www.kalamazoowraps.com.

May 8 & 29 Unwindings Integrative Breathwork, a musical journey for insight, emotional healing & creativity. 7 pm - 9 pm.

5464 Holiday Terrace $30. Pre-registration (269) 388-2988 or adamczassociates.com.

May 5 Studio 24, 141 E. Milham, Portage Cinco de Mayo/Mother’s Day/Spring Celebrations! Open House – Food –Beverages – Door Prizes – Valet Parking and more. Come celebrate with us; bring a friend & each receive a gift. 269-345-0866.

May 8 Art Bayou Diva Night - 6:00 pm Ladies Only - Adults Only - Bring your favorite snacks and beverages. Door prizes. Space is limited, please reserve your seat. Cheaper than therapy and way more FUN! www.artbayoustudio.com or 269-375-2600

May 5 & 6 Kalamazoo County Expo Center, Room A Scholastic Book Fairs Customer Appreciation Sale Event. Hundreds of books being sold at 25-80% off of cover price. Tues. 11 am - 8pm, Wed. 9 am - 4 pm.

Free. 1-800-451-7181. www.scholastic.com/bookfairs/events/warehouse.

May 9 Parchment Community Library "Writing Your Life: Collect Bits & Pieces". Free workshop by author Bonnie Jo Campbell on mining the nooks and crannies of your life for stories that others will want to read! 1:00 - 4:00 pm. Registration required at (269)343-7747.

Greater Kalamazoo Edition • May 2009

May 9 Stetson Chapel Bach Festival Finale Concert. Featuring the Bach Festival Chorus and Arcato Chamber Ensemble performing Hayden's "Lord Nelson Mass, Handel's Coronation, Anthem No. 1" and "Zadok the Priest." 8 pm. $14-$20 Adults, $5 Students. 269-337-7407. www.kzoo/edu/bach.

May 9 Dale A. Lyons Building Theater, SW MI College Wellspring Tour: Dogwood Festival in Dowagiac. Time: 7:30pm. Admission: $10 Adults, $8 students/seniors. www.wellspringdance.org.

May 9 - September 7 Kalamazoo Valley Museum "Jump to Japan". Discover aspects of Japanese culture through hands-on activities and environments based on the art forms of animation, manga, woodblock prints and traditional scrolls. Mon - Sat 9 am - 5 pm. Sun 9 am - 1 pm. Free. 269-373-7990. www.kalamazoomuseum.org.

May 9 Kalamazoo Nature Center “Small Wonders”. Explore nature with your child! Interactive nature stations are set up to encourage learning with your child, including time outdoors (weather permitting). No registration is required; just drop in! Children must be age 5 or under and accompanied by an adult. Parent-led activities for ages 2-5. 9:30 - 11:30 am. $2/child, in addition to regular KNC admission.

269-381-1574. www.NatureCenter.org.

May 9 - Spetember 13 Kalamazoo Institute of Arts Georgia O’Keeffe and Her Times: American Modernism from the Lane Collection of the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston. One of the greatest collections of 20th-century American art. Tue/ Wed/Sat. 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Thu/Fri: 10 a.m.-8 p.m.; Sun. 12-5 p.m. Cost: $8; Seniors/Students/Groups: $6 KIA Members: $4.

269-349-7775. www.kiarts.org.

May 9 - Spetember 13 Kalamazoo Institute of Arts Through the Photographer’s Lens: O’Keeffe and Her Circle. An exclusive exhibition of photos of O’Keeffe & her contemporaries at work & play, Tue/Wed/Sat.: 10 a.m.5 p.m.; Thur/Fri.: 10 a.m.-8 p.m.; Sun. 12-5 p.m. Free admission with ticket to Georgia O’Keeffe and Her Times. 269-349-7775. www.kiarts.org.

May 10 Mother's Day Brunch on Gun Lake Enjoy a spectacular brunch buffet overlooking beautiful Gun Lake. A fabulous selection of breakfast, entrees, salads, sides, and desserts. Seating from 9am-4pm.

Reservations required. Adults $22.95 Children (5-12) $10.95 Children under 5 eat free. Please call 1-269-672-5202 for reservations. www.baypointeinn.com.

May 10 Brook Lodge - Conference Hall Mother’s Day Buffet. Wide selection of delicious menu options available on the buffet. Reservations required.

11 am – 3 pm. Adults $24.95; Seniors 62 & up $19.95; Children ages 6-12 $6.95; Ages 3-5 $4.95; Under 2Free. 269-731-2200. www.brooklodgemsu.com.

May 10 W.K. Kellogg Manor House Mother’s Day Brunch. Brunch served buffet style in the Kellogg Manor House. 11 am & 1 pm. $11-$21.

269-671-2400. www.kbs.msu.edu/manorhouse/events.

May 10 Camp Merrie Woode Open House, Plainwell, MI Do you want to get your girls outside, but don’t know where to start? It’s easy! Girl Scouts Heart of Michigan offers a wide variety of outdoor experiences all year round. Attend the Camp Merrie Woode Open House to learn more about the exciting opportunities for girls entering grades K-12. 2-4 p.m. Call 1-800-788-4919 for directions and for additional information.

May 11 Gryphon Place The Gryphon Place 2-1-1/HELP-Line begins its spring volunteer training program . Please visit www.gryphon.org or call 381-1510 for more information.

May 14 Kalamazoo Institute of Arts Senior Day at the KIA. Includes a presentation on O'Keeffe and her colleagues,plus docent-guided tours of Georgia O'Keeffe and Her Times. 2-4 pm. Free.

269-349-7775. www.kiarts.org.

May 12 Kalamazoo Institute of Arts ARTbreak: "Visible Silence: Marsden Hartley" . Filmmaker Michael Maglaras explores the singular genius and enigmatic personality of the great American Modernist Marsden Hartley. Hartley is portrayed as "a splendid example of an artistic life lived well, against odds and circumstances that would have crippled a lesser man." 12:15 pm. Free. 269-349-7775. www.kiarts.org.

May 15 St. Julian Winery St. Julian will host the “Simply Pink” themed Ladies Night Out. Come to Paw Paw to shop 25 vendors, as well as taste St. Julian’s newest wine release; “Simply Pink”. Your ticket includes 2 glasses of wine, appetizers, tons of door prizes, shopping, and a $5 coupon off a wine purchase. A great gift for idea for Mother’s Day! 6:30 - 9:30 pm. $20-Must be purchased in advance.

800-732-6002. www.stjulian.com.

May 12 Fetzer Center, Western Michigan University The Kalamazoo Network will host its bi-monthly meeting; networking will begin at 5:15 pm, dinner will be at 6:00 pm, and the program will be served at 7:00 pm. The Glass Ceiling Award will be presented to the recipient for 2009. The cost is $30, or $20 for members and first time guests. Please register online at www.kalamazoonetwork.org. Registration deadline is Wednesday, May 6th.

May 13 Derby Financial "Job Transition Workshop" at 268 E. Kilgore Rd. Ste. C, Portage; 6:00-7:30 pm. Guest speakers from local employment agencies. To register call 269-321-5047

by May 11.

May 13 Portage Public Library, Portage, MI Hysterectomy Alternative – Free Health Talk: Dr. Roger Beyer will discuss cryoablation, an in-office alternative procedure to hysterectomy for abnormal uterine bleeding and answer any questions you may have. Refreshments served. 6:30 pm. Call (269)-657-6058 to reserve a seat.

May 14 Art Bayou Intro to glass fusing 6:00 pm RSVP Layers of glass are melted together to make sun catchers, pendants, tiles, plates, bowls, etc. Prices start at $17. Registration & deposit required -limited to the 20 people. www.artbayoustudio.com or 269-375-2600 May 14 Parchment Community Library, Lower Level Tools for a More Successful Job Search. Presented by Dan Greco of Reference USA. 6:30 - 7:30 pm. Free program. Registration required at 343-7747 or register online at www.parchmentlibrary.org.

May 14-17 Nelda K. Balch Playhouse “Return to the Forbidden Planet”. Shakespeare’s forgotten rock n’ roll masterpiece,” and winner of an Olivier Award for Best Musical, “Return to the Forbidden Planet” combines rock n’ roll hits from the 1950s and 1960s. The play also spoofs the greatest works of Shakespeare and is loosely based on the 1950s sci-fi film Forbidden Planet (itself an adaptation of Shakespeare’s The Tempest). Songs include “Wipeout,” “Great Balls of Fire,” and “Good Vibrations.” Thur., Fri., & Sat. 8 pm, Sun., 2 pm. Adults $15, Seniors/Students $10, Thurs. $1. 269-337-7333. www.kzoo.edu/theatre.

May 14 Dalton Center Recital Hall, WMU “Stefon Harris & Blackout”. 8 pm. $30 & $22.

269-382-7774. www.fontanachamberarts.org.

May 14–17 Downtown Kalamazoo- KVCC campus KAFI - Kalamazoo Animation Festival International. A project of KVCC. One of the top 10 animation film festivals. See screenings of the best animation films, seminars, panels, workshops, special guests, family events, contests. A truly artistic event. Thurs. 2-8 pm, Fri. & Sat. 9 am-8 pm, Sun. 9 am. $10-$15, Full Festival Pass $150.00. 269-373-7883. www.goKAFI.com.

May 14-17 Wellspring Theater at the Epic Center Wellspring's Spring Concert of Dance. Wellspring closes the 29th season with the annual Spring Concert of Dance, featuring new choreography by Cori Terry and favorites from the repertoire. Thurs. -Sat. 8 pm, Sun. 2 pm. $20, $10 with student ID, Free for children ages 5 and younger. 269-342-4354. www.wellspringdance.org.

May 15 Kalamazoo Valley Museum Film: "The Road to Memphis". Director Richard Pearce traces the musical odyssey of blues legend B.B. King.

1:30 pm. Free. 269-373-7990. www.kalamazoomuseum.org.

May 15 & 16 Whole Art Theater, 246 N. Kalamazoo Mall "Open-toed Scandal". Crawlspace Eviction performs live improv and sketch comedy! 8 pm. $7 students, $10 general. 269-599-7390. www.crawlspaceeviction.com.

May 19 Kalamazoo Institute of Arts ARTbreak: "History Live: World War II”. Curator Steve Rossio discusses History Live, the Portage District Library's May 23- July 5 exhibition commemorating World War II, which includes artwork by Michael Waskowsky created in 1943 New Guinea, John Todd's photographs of wartime Kalamazoo, and World War II memorabilia from local veterans. 12:15 pm. Free. 269349-7775. www.kiarts.org.

May 19 Kellogg Manor House Celebrate Friends Tea. Join us for an elegant and relaxing afternoon of tea, sandwiches, scones and other delicious tea treats. Take in the picturesque view of Gull Lake while seated in the Manor House living room at tables set with vintage china and silver. After the tea and a short program, a tour of the Manor House is offered.

Pre-paid reservations are requested. 3-5 pm. $22 Adults, $14 for children 5-12. 269-671-2400. www.kbs.msu.edu.

May 20 Kalamazoo Public Library Craft Couture: Yo!! Yo-Yo's. Create a classic fabric yoyo and turn your creation into a lovely one-of-a-kind tote bag. 6:30 pm. Free. 269-553-7880.

May 15-31 Kalamazoo Civic Auditorium “The Full Monty”. Based on the Academy Award-nominated film of the same name, this hit Broadway musical is the raucous and heartfelt story of six unemployed steelworkers who come up with a bold way to make some quick cash. Fri. & Sat. 8 pm, Thurs. 5/21 - 7:30 pm, Sat. 2 pm. 269-343-1313. www.kazoocivic.com.

May 20 Great Lakes Plastic & Hand Surgery Free Informational Seminar, "Your Body of Work: Expert Guidance for a Total Body Transformation" for people who have had massive weight loss. Dr. Scott Holley and Dr. Raghu Elluru Personal Trainers Stacie Kryszak & Damian Harris from The Studio. Bring your journey toward health & fitness to a satisfying conclusion! Light refreshments & raffle prizes. 5:307pm Seating limited, call 329-2900 to reserve a seat.

May 16 Acardia Creek Festival Place The 2009 Susan G. Komen Southwest Michigan Race for the Cure® in downtown Kalamazoo. For more info/register, visit komenswmichigan.org, e-mail swmi@komenswmichigan.org, or call 1-877-566-3679.

May 20 Bronson Lakeview Hospital in Paw Paw, MI Incontinence in Women – Free Health Talk: Dr. Roger Beyer will discuss the solutions for urinary incontinence treatments for women, and answer any questions you may have. Refreshments served. 6:30 pm. Call (269) 657-6058 to reserve a seat.

May 16 Sol's World Cafe - Radisson The Women's Breakfast Club - "Showcase My Business Day" Breakfast and networking. 7:30. Get inspired to take your business to the next level. RSVP to: info@womensbreakfastclub.com or call (269) 352-0247

May 20 Deep Lake Shamanic Study Group. Light Warrior Clan will gather from 6–10 pm for a community potluck and teaching.

Please RSVP to Mlapearl@aol.com or call 269.966.3116.

May 16 West Michigan Glass Society, 436 N. Park St. “Explore Glass Art Day”, West Michigan Glass Society.

Experienced glass artists invite the public to learn basic glass art skills and create one-of-a-kind projects including a glass blown paperweight, glass bead, lamp worked figurine, kiln fused pendant or sun catcher, and sand blasted candle holder. 10 am – 4:30 pm.

269-552-9802. www.wmglass.org.

May 21 Dalton Theatre Kalamazoo College Symphonic Band Concert. 8 pm.

Free. 269-337-7070.

May 16 Kalamazoo County Expo Center Circus Maximus Antique Toy Show. Annual Spring event featuring over 200 dealers with those antique and collectible "toys you grew up with as a child". 9 am – 3 pm.

Adults $5, Children 12 and under are free.

616-361-9887.

May 17 Kalamazoo Institute of Arts Sunday Funday. Children and parents will join local poets to create word pictures inspired by Georgia O'Keeffe, meet the artist (as portrayed by actor Shannon Hill), and tour Georgia O'Keeffe and Her Times.

2-4 pm. Free. 269-349-7775. www.kiarts.org.

May 17 Miller Auditorium Side by Side with Stulberg Concert. Features the 2008 gold medal winner, cellist Matthew Allen, the Kalamazoo Symphony Orchestra and the Kalamazoo Junior Symphony Orchestra. 7 pm. $14 General, $5 Students, free for children under 5. 269-387-2300. www.millerauditorium.com.

May 19 The Beacon Club The Kalamazoo MI After Five Women's Connection.

Please join us for an evening of fun and inspiration.

6:30-8 p.m. The program cost: $17.00. Please RSVP

by May 14 by calling Christa at 269-323-7311.

May 22 Kalamazoo County Expo Center & Fairground West Michigan Apple Blossom Cluster A.K.C. Dog Show. Annual Spring event featuring registered dogs from across the Nation. 7 am. Adults $3, Children under 12 and Seniors over 65 are free. 269-385-2911.

May 23 Art Bayou Date night - 6:00 PM Adults Only. Have fun & catch up with your spouse or friend. Discount for six or more.

Bring your favorite snacks & beverages. Space is limited, so please RSVP. Door prizes. www.artbayoustudio.com or 269-375-2600 May 25 Downtown Kalamazoo Memorial Day Parade. This traditional, annual parade kicks off at 10 am at the intersection of Church Street and Michigan Avenue. It will march east on Michigan Ave to Riverview, north to Gull Road, east to ceremonial site at Riverside Cemetery. Come downtown to have a morning of family fun, and to celebrate the memory of those that have passed before us.10 am. Free.

269-381-4471.

May 26 Kalamazoo Institute of Arts ARTbreak: "Against the Grain: The Development of Boston Expressionism", with Vicki Wright 12:15 pm.

Free. 269-349-7775. www.kiarts.org.

May 27 Derby Financial "Job Transition Workshop" at 268 E Kilgore Rd. Ste. C, Portage, 6:00-7:30 pm. Guest speakers from local employment agencies. To register call 269-321-5047 by May 25.

May 29 & 30 Sky Festival Site, 417 Forest St. Jazz Fest. Kalamazoo's newest festival, located in the Vine District. The Jazz Festival will be two days of nonstop Jazz music and entertainment. The Jazz Festival’s two days of live entertainment will include a variety of vendors, games, food and drinks, and fun for everyone!

Fri. 3 - 11 pm, Sat. 11 am - 11pm. $5. 269-385-4759. www.skysfestivals.com.

May 29 The Radisson Downtown WGVU and D&W present “The Kalamazoo Food & Wine Fest”. 7:30 - 10 p.m.

Tickets are $40 in advance, or $45 at the door. Visit www.wgvu.org for more information.

May 29 Cityscape Event Center An Evening with Early Music Michigan. Music and food.

6:30 pm. $10 general admission, $8 seniors & students. $5 for KIA members. 269-349-1045.

May 30 Kalamazoo Co. Fairground 103.3 WKFR’s Mom to Mom 9am-2pm In the hazel gray building. 100 booths selling gently used children’s clothing, toys, accessories & more. The biggest garage sales for kids stuff you’ve ever seen! Admission $3. More info: www.WKFR.com or call 344-0111 May 30 First Baptist Church, 315 W. Michigan Ave. All Ears Theatre: The Kalamazoo Caper Case.. 6 pm.

Free. 269-342-5059. www.KalmazooArts.com.

May 30 Dalton Theatre Kalamazoo College and Community Orchestra Concert.

Purcell-Stokowski "When I am Laid" from Dido and Aeneas; Louis Vierne-Koehle: Piano Quintet; MussorgskyRavel: Pictures at an Exhibition. 8 pm. $5, Students $2.

269-337-7070.

May 30 Kellogg Bird Sanctuary Sanctuary Tour. The Sanctuary's expert volunteer interpreters will lead a walking tour of the sanctuary grounds, talking about the history and birds and answering all of your questions. The distance of the walking tour is approximately 1 mile and the path is wheelchair and stroller accessible. Dress appropriately for the weather. 10-11:30 am. Members Free; non-members general admission. 269-671-2510. www.kbs.msu.edu/birdsanctuary.

May 31 Cold Brook County Park 25th Seahorse Challenge Triathlon, Duathlon, & Sprint Triathlon. An Olympic distance triathlon, duathlon & Sprint triathlon, 600 of the best athletes in Michigan will compete in the 1.5K swim, 40K bike & 10K run. 8 am.

810-714-5768. www.3disciplines.com.

May 31 Deep Lake Shamanic Study Group. Light Warrior Clan 11-4 Sustainable Agriculture: assuming responsibility for our food. Red Lodge Open House and Sweat Lodge Ceremony. Please RSVP to Mlapearl@aol.com or call 269.966.3116.

June 1 Gull Lake Country Club 2009 2nd Annual Relay for Life Golf Outing and Lunch sponsored by the Richland Area Business Association and the Gull Lake Area Rotary Club.

Info @ 269- 491-4900 June 4-6 Arcadia Creek Festival Place Dionysos Greekfest. Celebrate everything Greek with this annual event. There is a full slate of food, song and dance planned. 11:30 am - 1:30 am. 269-345-1830.

June 5 & 6 Kalamazoo Mall Art On the Mall. Over 70 artists will sell original works of art and fine crafts. From jewelry to pottery, unique garden art to incredible sculptures, this event produces the best shopping in Kalamazoo. Fri. 12-9 pm, Sat. 10 am - 5 pm. Free. 269-388-2830. www.central-city.net.

Greater Kalamazoo Edition • May 2009

37

Start Talking, A Girl’s Guide for You and Your Mom About Health, Sex, or Whatever

By Mary Jo Rapini and Janine Sherman Bayou Publishing, 2008, $14.95

By Alexandra M. Fix

C o n v e r s a t i o n

The Girls

By Lori Lansens Back Bay Books, 2005, $13.99

God’s Fool

By Mark Slouka Vintage Books, 2003, $13 A number of years ago, author Elizabeth Berg recommended the book God’s Fool by Mark Slouka. I picked it up and put it down, hesitant about the novel’s subject. Nonetheless, I kept the book on my shelf. More recently, a friend recommended The Girls by Lori Lansens. With only a cursory glance at the subject matter (sisters, I thought), I started the book and quickly recognized a familiar hesitancy. Within the first few paragraphs, I learned the full subject matter—the fictionalized autobiography of sisters, Rose and Ruby Darlen, born physically attached to each other. Rose and Ruby are rare craniopagus twins who could not be surgically separated. These are girls of today with people who love them and people who fear them. The sisters have separate dreams, wishes, loves and longings. They keep secrets from each other at times but anticipate each other’s thoughts and footsteps at other times. Almost 30 years old as the story begins, they know they have outlived any other craniopagus twins and they feel their mortality. Side by side, they strive to leave a mark in their world. They have jobs, friends and a home of their own, but as time ticks away, their lives hold on by a slender thread.

This is a thought-provoking novel. I felt at times that I was a voyeur, and it seemed wrong to stare in mental amazement at this chance of nature. It felt strange to wonder about their coming of age, their physical capabilities and their loves and their losses. Some of this novel

38

S t a r t e r s

is about the experience of being conjoined.

Some is simply about girls being girls in an ordinary world. Not self-pitying and not sensational, this becomes the pure story of two sisters bound together by nature and uncertain how they will say goodbye in the end.

A Homemade Life,

Completing this novel brought me back to pulling the dusty copy of God’s Fool off my bookshelf once more. Rose and Ruby are fictional characters. Chang and Eng Bunker, in Mark Slouka’s novel, are fictionalizations of true characters. These two men, born in Siam, attached to each other at the chest, are the first Siamese twins. As teens, they are displayed as “marvels of nature” at the royal palaces of China. A Boston sea captain extends their tours throughout the world. In time, the brothers take over their own management and continue to exhibit themselves. They earn enough to purchase a plantation and slaves in North Carolina. Married to sisters, they have 22 children between them. After suffering losses during the Civil War, the two men become part of P.T. Barnum’s American Museum of Curiosities.

The masses continue to pay, to poke and prod and stare. It is challenging to read about the curiosity of crowds attending these sideshow exhibits of people with disabilities, and yet, it is a slice of history to ponder. Why did the crowds come? Why was P.T. Barnum such a success? Why did Chang and Eng participate in these exhibitions? What were their lives really like?

Reading these novels, alone or in combination, will lead to some spirited conversations about the solitary and communal natures of men and women as well as the perception of people with disabilities in the past and in the present.

Mothers really do want to do what’s best for their daughters, but sometimes shyness, feelings of inadequacy, poor information and teenage tension get in the way. This book offers some wonderful ideas for opening the line of communication between mothers and daughters.

Walking and wandering, treating yourselves to girl spa time, chatting at a coffeehouse or taking a yoga class together are just a few of the ideas to create some time together. And then this book gets to the heart of its message and, with a Q&A format, offers concrete ideas on how to actually answer a daughter’s questions about body concerns, health-related issues, sex, STDs, birth control and date safety. The facts in this book are explained clearly and will help mothers explain and daughters understand the bodily changes of growing up.

Stories and Recipes From My Kitchen Table

by Molly Wizenberg Simon & Schuster, 2009, $23 No recipe comes without its story and each story warmly invites readers into the kitchen. Author Molly Wizenberg is a columnist for Bon Appetit magazine and a popular food blogger, the creator of Orangette. In A Homemade Life, Wizenberg shares a mix of food and family with her readers.

Among the many, yummy recipe offerings are: bread and chocolate sandwiches, radishes and butter, squishy bread French toast and vanilla and black pepper ice cream.

Chocolate wedding cake is one of her highlights and the story behind it is just as grand.

Alexandra Fix is the author of ten non-fiction children’s books including the series Reduce, Reuse, Recycle (Heinemann Library). She is a former children’s librarian, registered nurse, freelance writer and avid reader. Enjoying college, one class at a time while her children were growing up, fed her love of literature and creative writing. She and her husband have five grown children and multiple grandchildren living all over the country.

Greater Kalamazoo Edition • May 2009

Free ultrasound vein screening If you suffer from aching, tired, or swollen legs, or if you have bulging veins, take advantage of Premier Vein Centerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s free ultrasound screening event. Ultrasound is the test used to help diagnose common vein disorders and diseases. Your test results are available immediately.

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Screenings take place in our medical office on the campus of Borgess Medical Center.

Premier Vein Center offers the area's most minimally invasive office-based procedures for the treatment of vein disorders. All procedures are performed by our Board Certified Physicians.

Call (269) 276-9196 today

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Greater Kalamazoo Edition â&#x20AC;˘ May 2009

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