Beautiful You - May 2011

May 2011

Free!

Pampered Pooch

Caring for Your Smile When You Can’t Sleep Control Your Space Say It With Style

Fiesta in a Flash Spring Sweets

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May 2011

The People Who Make It Happen...

Publisher: Darlene Clifford dclifford@womenslifestylekazoo.com

Contributing Writers: Sandy Derby Kelly Duggan Patricia Emanuele Mary Beth Esquibel Heidi McCrary Jeff Murphy Judy Pearson Juli Wiseman The Kalamazoo Network

Sales: Sales Manager Ruth Ann Dibert radibert@womenslifestylekazoo.com

Sales Representatives: Brenda Murphy Maria Pavletic

Layout & Design: jr4 designs JR Harper

Photography: Christopher McGuire Photography www.chrismcguirephoto.com K. Redmond Photography www.facebook.com/kredmondphotography

Office Manager: Patty Clifford

Contact Us

By Phone: 269-569-1647 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

Coming In June Let’s Go!

Greater Kalamazoo BEAUTIFUL YOU The Pampered Pooch..............................................................4 Honeysuckle & Leather...........................................................8 Beautiful and Healthy Hair......................................................13 Beautiful Mind......................................................................18 Caring for Your Smile............................................................20 Make – Over – Good to Terrific...........................................24 Spring Spruce Ups ...............................................................25 Say It Beautifully ...................................................................30 BROADEN YOUR HORIZONS Happy Mother’s Day - Gift Ideas............................................6 In My Humble Opinion .......................................................7 Loving Your Body, Yourself..................................................32 When You Can’t Sleep.......................................................34 Reader’s Lounge ................................................................38 INTERIOR IDEAS Conquer Your Clutter - Control Your Space............................10 How to Choose Color for Your Home .................................28 LOOK WHO’S TALKING Penelope Rogotzy – Barn Theatre ..........................................19 Jane Tamraz - Biggs Gillmore................................................23 BUSINESS & FINANCE Financial Sauvé ....................................................................15 Say It With Style: Your Elevator Speech .................................22 Networking with the Kalamazoo Network...............................23 Ad Talk..............................................................................31 RECIPES Fiesta in a Flash Beef Taco Salad with Guacamole Dressing............................16 Chipotle Chicken Taco Cones ...........................................16 Mini Crab and Cream Cheese Flautas .................................17 Chocolate and Cinnamon Tortilla Pudding ...........................17 Spring Sweets Caribbean Pineapple-Lime Ice Cream .................................27 Chocolate Flan Cake ........................................................27 COMMUNITY NEWS & HAPPENINGS Buy Local............................................................................33 Calendar.............................................................................36

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By Marianne Bockheim

Spread the word! Recognized by the American Veterinary Medical Association, May 1-7 is National Pet Week. This month promotes responsible pet ownership, celebrates the human-animal bond, and public awareness of veterinary medicine.

Those who want to show some love to their pets, pamper them with play dates, puppy resorts and designer outfits. I’ve discovered some wonderful, soothing “beauty products” your furry friend will absolutely love (and perhaps the two of you can share):

1. Olive Green Goods for Modern Dogs Snout Smoother You take care of your skin; take care of theirs too.

The Snout Smoother helps with drying and cracking, while providing natural protection from the sun and other harsh environmental conditions. $15.95. Available at www.olivegreendog.com.

2, 3, 4. Espree Pet Bath & Body Time for your pet's day at the spa! Espree Mudbath Conditioning Treatment conditions, rehydrates and rebuilds the coat while pampering your pet!

8 oz, $14.50

Moisturize and protect your pooch’s sensitive pads from the elements. Extreme conditions such as hot pavement, ice, sidewalk salt, etc., can take their toll and influence the onset of rough and burnt or cracked pads. $8. Espree products available at Petco and www.espree.com

5. Color Paw Premium Pet Nail Polish Turn pet’s paws into twinkle toes! Available in 32 colors, this fast-drying, one-coat polish is not only pretty, but water- and chip-resistant. $4.99. Available at specialty pet boutiques nationwide and www.ohmydogonline.com.

A safe, low-alcohol (potato-based) fragrance designed for a dog’s sensitive sense of smell. You and Fifi can smell simply divine all day long. Give yourself a liberal squirt and, for Fifi, lightly work fragrance into her coat with scent-treated hands.

Key notes include bergamot oil, patchouli oil (also a natural insect repellant), mandarin oil and nutmeg oil.

Luxurious enough for you and lovable enough for her! A personal fave! $50 (1.7oz), $65 (3.4oz), Swarovski Limited Edition $850 (3.4oz). Available at www.sexybeast.com.

7. Cain & Able Kissable Reduce tartar and polish canines to a pearly finish with this delightful duo. $12.50. Available at www.cainandablecollection.com and specialty pet boutiques nationwide.

Espree Hot Oil moisturizes and restores softness to the coat by sealing and replenishing the hair shaft with natural oils. Simply warm Hot Oil Coat Renewal for a beautiful coat with vivid shine.

Fragrance-free. 4 oz, $9

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6. Sexy Beast Signature Fragrance

8. Pet Head 5

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A full line of bath products for the “haute” dog and “phat” cat, from waterless and tearless shampoos, to crème rinse and detangling spray. Reward your furry friend for good behavior in the bath with a sweet accessory from their Punk Princess or Grungy Pop line. $16.95 each. Available at Petco, Petsmart and www.designerdoggy.com.

9. Pet-zzz-Pad Finally, after all the pretty pampering, give Precious the perfect form of beauty sleep with the Pet-zzz-Pad. Just like the good old-fashioned electric blanket, the Pet-zzz-Pad offers a soft, warm place to curl up and dream of goldfish or of chasing squirrels.

It’s also recommended for pet’s dealing with muscle and joint pain, puppies and kittens and those that shiver. $19.99-$39.99 (depending on size). Available at wwwpetzzzpad.com and Petco.

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May 2011

From the Publisher Happy Mother’s Day! Being a mother is a “beautiful” thing! Oh sure, sometimes it can be messy and often times we are left wondering “Why did I want to do this?” But overall the rewards are priceless.

To all of the mother’s in our crowd - we wish you a spectacular Mother’s Day…everyday.

And to all of our “Beautiful You” readers, we hope you will be delighted with what you find within our covers this month. Please know that when we say ‘beauty’ we are certainly not only looking at the surface. Beauty should be the whole package. If we can’t feel the beauty radiating from our souls outward, it’s time to stop, seriously evaluate and seek out what is missing. And what better time than right now, as the outside world comes to life with new growth and we can once again enjoy our gardens, hobbies and vacations?

This month we also celebrate National Pet Week May 1 – 7, so grab your pooch and come on out to the Kalamazoo Humane Society’s Annual Dog Walk on May 7th – more details inside.

Please make time to attend the Komen Race for the Cure event on May 15th in downtown Kalamazoo (Arcadia Festival site). It starts at noon; with the race at 2 pm. Together we can find a cure for this disease that affects so many of the people we love. See you there!

Have a wonderful month ~ Don’t you just love spring?

Darlene May 2011

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Gift Ideas

This is the day to honor the woman who sacrificed to give you the best things life has to offer. When showing your mother you care about her, it’s best to skip the new vacuum for something that will be more meaningful. Here are a few she’s bound to love.

Spa Treatments

Jewelry

A gift certificate for a spa treatment or a massage will be appreciated, as will products she can use around the house to create a spa experience in her own bath.

Give Mom a new watch that shows you appreciate spending “time” together.

Every moment she checks her new watch, she’ll think of you. Heart themed jewelry tells Mom you love her whenever she’s wearing it. A heart pendant or diamond earrings are timeless gifts.

PLASTIC SURGERY OF KALAMAZOO 7901 S. 12th St. Ste. 100 Portage 269-372-3000 www.pskzoo.com WILLOW DAY SPA & SKIN CARE CENTER 261 Farmers Alley, Kalamazoo 269-345-1356 www.MyWillowDaySpa.com

SIESTA SILVER JEWELRY Karla K. Piper 269.548.7300 www.siestasilverjewelry.com

Home Decor

Gift Basket

Chances are Mom can use a few beautiful new items around the house.

Candles, art and comfy chairs are always welcome.

Put together a themed gift basket made up of Mom’s favorite indulgences. For example, if Mom is a foodie, place a few cooking gadgets, a cookbook, a hostess set, gift certificate to her favorite restaurant, and similarly themed items inside.

Don’t forget the chocolate!

THIRD COAST FUTONS & FURNITURE 649 Romence Rd., Portage Near Steinmart & Sec. of State 269-323-9667 GIFT LOFT SCANDINAVIAN Contemporary Furniture & Gifts 653 Romence Rd., Portage 269-329-0800

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FINE STERLING JEWELS FROM SILPADA Brenda Rossen (269)381-1738 mysilpada.com/brenda.rossen

STICKS & STONES We have all of the above 124 S. Kalamazoo Mall 269-343-2520 BACCHUS Wine & Cheese Gift Baskets 3112 Oakland Drive 269-344-0168

Beware Woman in Confucius Tee Shirt Show of hands - who loves fortune cookies? Just about everybody.

Ever wonder where they came from? Or what the fortunes mean?

The where is easy. The founder of the Hong Kong Noodle Company, a Chinese immigrant living in Los Angeles, invented fortune cookies in 1918. The story goes that he was concerned with the poor he saw in the streets, so he put inspirational verses, written by a local Presbyterian minister, into cookies and passed them out for free.

After a while, inspiration gave way to innovation, and English translations of the proverbs of Confucius were inserted into the cookies. Given some of the translations, I’d say Confucius gave way to confusion. I’m not sure 21st century America is ready for some of these. So I’ve taken it upon myself to translate six of my favorites for you. #1. Confucius say: “It does not matter how slowly you go, as long as you do not stop.” Okay, this one is easy. It clearly refers to shopping, particularly at an annual sale or an outlet center, something that will take longer than the usual stroll through the mall. And I would even go so far as to suggest leaving this proverb as a message for your family before embarking on the mega-spending spree. #2. Confucius say: “A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.” Please see translation number one above. They are one in the same. #3. Confucius say: “To be wronged is nothing unless you continue to remember it.” I agree with this one wholeheartedly and endeavor to live my life by it. Which is why I’ve almost forgotten how those girls in 8th grade laughed when I couldn’t do a cartwheel; and that sorority sister who borrowed my best sweather and never returned it; and my first husband who was non-existant when it came to reprimanding the kids, and....

But I digress. #4. Confucius say: “Your ability to juggle many tasks will take you far.” Sure it will. While I developed stretch marks from giving birth and breast feeding, I also gained gray hair and wrinkles from all the stress of child rearing. And that’s not to mention the extra pounds I added from fast food because I didn’t have time to cook, or exercise it off. Yep, I’ve juggled and gone far, all right. #5. Confucius say: “The gem cannot be polished without friction, nor a human being perfected without trial.” Wow, given the trials of my short 57 years, I must be one of the shiniest gems around. #6. Confucius say: “Ideas are like children; there are none so wonderful as your own.” I don’t get this one. I do have the most wonderful children, ergo my ideas are wonderful, too.

Right? I am right, aren’t I? This list could go on, but you get the idea. Confucius really say, “Do not be confused by sayings. Just place them into modern contexts and enjoy the cookie.” At least, in my humble opinion.

Judy Pearson is the founder of Courage Concepts, an organization which fosters courage in women through seminars and Courage Conventions. Judy is also the author of magazine and newspaper articles, as well as two books about ordinary people who exhibited extraordinary courage. Her latest, Wolves at the Door, has been optioned for a movie.

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Hot Looks for Spring/Summer 2011

Pantone’s Color of the Year is “Honeysuckle.” Described by Pantone as a dynamic reddish pink, Honeysuckle is encouraging and uplifting. It elevates our psyche beyond escape, instilling the confidence, courage and spirit to meet the exhaustive challenges that have become part of everyday life. Look for this color to make a splash in home accessories, furnishings and fashion. Not to be simply known as magenta, fuchsia, watermelon or hot pink, honeysuckle has it’s own specific color identity.

(CMYK breakdown = C: 4, M: 75, Y: 24, K: 0) Leather is back with a vengeance. Classic biker jackets, edgy leather pants, brazen vests and sexy mini-skirts express the cool, strong and confident you. Studded bangles, belts with chains, and plenty of zippers abound. Soften the tough-girl edge by pairing with a short delicate dress and floral accessories.

From the Mary Frances Magnolia Bloom Collection: 1. This slouchy hobo is crafted with artful detail and embellished with flowers. $242 2. Wear this fun and colorful light-weight tie as a scarf, belt, hair-piece or wrapped on your black leather bag. $97 3. Feel fun and hip wearing this beautifully crafted necklace. $116 4. Designed for the on-the-go woman, this magenta mini bag has a top zip closure. $116

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www.maryfrances.com

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From Burberry’s Spring/Summer 2011 Collection:

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1. This urban chic slim fit double breasted leather biker trench coat says you’re ready to roll. $4,495 2. Toughen up a dainty ensemble with this metal studded bangle. $450 3. The Burberry chain link leather belt is crafted to accentuate the hips. $695 www.burberry.us

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Conquer Your Clutter

By Mary Dykstra, MBA CPO he focus this month is on bringing beauty into your life and owning your own personal sense of style. It manifests in what you choose to surround yourself with and how you make choices about what to keep and what to let go.

May is a great transitional time of year. The days are longer and the weather beckons for our seasonal wardrobe exchange (both for our homes as well as our selves). It’s a time of assessment and purging the old. Spring brings anticipation as well as new growth.

If you’ve been cooped up all winter looking at your space and feeling confined by your stuff as well as your environment, it’s a great time to skinny down your stuff and let in some fresh air.

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moments vs. minutes or hours. Imagine being able to get ready and out the door in less than 30 minutes vs. searching for your clothes, lunch options and car keys.

Being organized and having time to enjoy your home space is about simplifying life, making great choices and surrounding yourself only with what you love, need and use. Your home should feel like a safe and nurturing retreat, not an unorganized storage facility.

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Spruce up your space with a fresh coat of paint. Paint is a quick, dramatic and inexpensive way to instantly change the feel of your space. To get some insights on colors and feel, among other choices you can check out the Pottery Barn and Restoration Hardware.

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Remember, you can’t control the economy but you can control your home’s environment. Invest in your own personal happiness by surrounding yourself with those things that support you mentally, emotionally and physically. In addition to purging, think about incorporating small, inexpensive touches to make your home life something that beautifully supports you.

Less is Easier Surround yourself with the things that enrich your life and move you toward your goals. Remove the unimportant things so you can focus on what means the most to you.

Keep it simple

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There is power and peace in clear and organized spaces. One of the first ways to move toward empowered change is by imagining it in your mind and feeling it in your bones. This is especially helpful when you first get started because it helps you keep on track and motivated throughout the process.

Make your home the place where when you walk in, you can sigh in relief. You may not be able to control the economy, but you can control your environment.

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Imagine your space as you would like it to be.

Imagine having cleared floors and extra space in your drawers/closets. Imagine clear countertops and being able to find what you’re looking for in

Clear the clutter. It’s about spending more time with family & relationships vs. cleaning and maintaining your possessions. Let go of things that don’t have meaning to you (old craft projects, outdated school information, unused clothes, etc).

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May 2011

ers, bookcases and cupboards can visually reduce eye clutter. It’s all about maintaining a sense of control and being able to let your mind rest while delighting your eyes. To get ideas for container options you can go online to a number of places including The Container Store.

For those things you do wish to keep, the use of armoires and decorative boxes and contain-

Mary Dykstra MBA, CPO is a Certified Professional Organizer, speaker and Time Management Coach. She is immediate past director of Examination Development for the Board of Certified Professional Organizers and a current Industry Member Board Director of National Association of Professional Organizers. Her website is www.withinreach.biz.

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May 2011

“Hair style is the final tip-off whether or not a woman really knows herself.”

– Hubert de Givenchy, Vogue Magazine, July 1985

Shiny, lustrous and thick hair is desired by many women.

Far too often, however, this isn’t the type of hair DNA has dealt. But you can use the wide array of products and hair care tips available to achieve the best head of hair you can put forward.

1. Change your diet: A protein-rich diet will help grow stronger hair. Look for high protein foods such as liver, other organ meats, legumes, and foods rich in B vitamins. Also, iron, calcium and silica help to prevent hair loss. Silica is found in the outer coverings of potatoes, green and red peppers, and cucumbers.

2. Water temperature: Depending on your hair type, you may wash your hair daily, every other day, or even less frequently. Generally, every other day is the average. When washing, it’s recommended that you use warm water. Water that is too hot can damage the hair.

3. Washing technique: Use the pads of your fingers and not your nails to scrub your scalp. Be sure to rinse all of the shampoo out of your hair, otherwise residue can make locks limp and dull.

Choose simple shampoos that do little more than clean the oil from your hair. Complicated formulas may be more expensive and do little help for your hair. Also, use conditioner sparingly.

Globbing it on actually can have the reverse effect on your hair — making it drier and less manageable. When using conditioner, only apply it from the height of your ears down. Avoid rubbing conditioner into the scalp.

4. Protect your hair: Just as you would use sunblock on your skin, you should use it on your hair and scalp to prevent sun damage. Use a hat to cover up when your head will be exposed to strong sunlight. When going swimming in a pool or at the beach, consider combing a conditioner through your hair prior to add a layer of protection against the salt or chlorine.

5. Processing: Treatments that chemically alter your hair, such as coloring, perming and straightening, should be used sparingly, and rarely at the same time, otherwise you can damage the hair. Consult with an experienced stylist as to what you can do with your hair and what should be avoided.

6. Comb and brush with caution: It’s not necessary to comb or brush your hair to the point of tears. In fact, excessively tugging on the hair can cause it to weaken and break.

Only brush dry hair. Use a wide-toothed comb on wet hair to detangle. And always handle the hair gently.

7. Get regular haircuts: Split ends can quickly ruin your hairstyle. Even if you are growing out your hair, it is important to go for regular trimming to maintain your shape.

Haircuts enable you to style your hair more easily and therefore use less product and fewer appliances to create the look you desire.

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May 2011

A Life Insurance Primer

Whether you want to replace your income for your family in the event you should die young or help preserve an inheritance for your heirs, life insurance can serve as the cornerstone of a sound financial plan. While life insurance can help you protect your dependents or others with whom you share your life, it can also serve as a key component of succession planning by protecting a buy-sell agreement or further your charitable giving program.

Just as the uses for life insurance are diverse, so, too, is the range of products and policy riders from which you can choose. In fact, because life insurance products are now introduced and revised at an alarmingly fast pace, it’s difficult to stay on top of what the industry has to offer. An industry in flux combined with the complicated nature of the product can make the process of choosing insurance seem overwhelming. Understandably, rather than dive in and discover the benefits to each type of coverage, many consumers put off their analysis and the purchase of life insurance, leaving those they love unprotected. In order to make the best choice for your family, you need to understand the differences between your life insurance options.

First, you should know that there are two major types of life insurance: term life insurance and whole (or permanent) life insurance. As the names imply, term life insurance covers you for a set period of time while whole life offers coverage for your entire life. Let’s look at each type in a little more detail: Term Life Insurance As you might expect, there are a variety of term policies from which to choose. Payment is received only if death occurs during the term of the policy so consumers choose a period of time, generally from one to 30 years, when they most need protection. Some choose to insure themselves for the life of a mortgage while others want protection for the number of years they will have dependent children. According to the Insurance Information Institute (III), the most popular type of term insurance is 20-year term.

Although there are two basic types of term life insurance policies, level term and decreasing term, level term is by far the most popular, according to the III. That’s because the death

benefit stays the same throughout the duration of the policy, rather than dropping, usually in one-year increments, over the course of the term.

How much does a term life insurance policy cost? According to a 2010 press release from III, generally, the premium for the policy is based on both your age and your health at the policy’s start. As an example, however, the III estimates that the annual premium for a 40-year-old male nonsmoker buying a $500,000 20-year level term life insurance policy in 2011 will be about $725 if he qualifies as a “standard” risk and $350 if he meets the more stringent requirements of a “preferred” risk. Rates for women and younger people would be lower. For example, the comparable rate for a 40-year-old female nonsmoker would be about $600 for a standard risk and $300 for a preferred risk.

Of course, there’s plenty more industry jargon to mystify you when you are comparison shopping.

If a policy is “renewable,” you can choose to keep it in force for an additional term or terms, up to a specified age, even if changes in your health would cause you to be rejected if you were a new life insurance applicant. Sometimes the premium remains the same, or “level,” for the length of the term. Other policies permit the insurance company to raise the rate during the course of the policy’s term. So, for example, if you buy a 5-year renewable term policy, it could be level for 5 years, then change to a new rate reflecting your new age, and so on every five years.

If you purchase a “convertible” policy, you have the right to change it into a permanent type of life insurance without additional health exams.

Finally, some newer term policies feature a “return of premium” option. As you might expect, the premiums for coverage with this feature are much higher than for policies without the return guarantee.

Whole Life/Permanent Insurance Whole life, or permanent, insurance pays a death benefit when you die, whether it’s next month or one hundred years from now. There is also a savings element attached to these policies that can grow on a tax-deferred basis. Note that when the savings element reaches a certain

amount, it must be available to you as “cash value” in the event you decide not to continue with the original policy. Because of the potential for the savings element to grow over time, premiums are generally higher for permanent than for term insurance. However, the premiums remain the same while term coverage has the potential to increase substantially every time you renew it.

There are also a number of options to choose from under the umbrella of whole life insurance, including traditional whole life, universal life, variable life, and variable universal life insurance.

With traditional whole life insurance, both the death benefit and the premium are designed to stay the same (level) throughout the life of the policy. And, naturally, the cost per $1,000 of benefit increases as the insured person ages. The III estimates that at current interest rates, a life insurance company will pay a $500,000 death benefit to a survivor as an income of about $3,300 a month for 20 years. In the 1970s and 1980s, life insurance companies introduced variations on the traditional whole life product.

One of these products is universal, or adjustable, life insurance.

Universal life insurance offers you more flexibility than whole life insurance. You may be able to increase the death benefit if you pass a medical examination. The savings vehicle (called a cash value account) generally earns a money market rate of interest. After money has accumulated in your account, you will also have the option of altering your premium payments – providing there is enough money in your account to cover the costs.

For a free brochure to help you determine how much life insurance is right for you, please contact our office at 321-5047 or go on our website at www.derbyfinancial.net to request a copy.

Sources: http://www.iii.org/individuals/life/basics/major_types/ http://www.iii.org/media/updates/archive/press.777012/ Sandy K. Derby, CFP®, ChFC has been in the financial services industry since 1989. She was recently selected as one of America’s Top Financial Planners by Consumers Research Council of America. 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 Woodbury Financial Services, Inc PO Box 64284, St Paul MN 55164-0284, 800-800-2638. Member FINRA/SIPC and Registered Investment Advisor. Woodbury Financial Services, Inc. is not affiliated with Derby Financial & Associates, LLC.

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Photographs: Š 2011 Publications International, Ltd. All rights reserved

Gather friends and family around the table to celebrate Cinco de Mayo with these specially selected recipes courtesy of Ortega. Using packaged ingredients and mixes, these recipes are fast and easy to prepare, so you can relax and share a festive meal with those you love.

Chipotle Chicken Taco Cones 8 cones 1 1 1 3/4 1 1 8 1 1 1

tablespoon olive oil onion, diced pound ground chicken cup water packet (1.25 ounces) Ortega Chipotle Taco Seasoning Mix can (16 ounces) Ortega Refried Beans 8-inch Ortega Flour Soft Tortillas cup shredded lettuce cup diced tomatoes cup (4 ounces) finely shredded or grated Cheddar cheese

Heat olive oil in medium skillet over medium heat.

Add onion; cook and stir 3 minutes or until translucent. Add ground chicken; cook and stir 5 minutes or until browned. Stir in water and seasoning mix.

Remove from heat.

Beef Taco Salad with Guacamole Dressing 1 1 1 3/4 1

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tablespoon olive oil cup chopped onion pound lean ground beef cup water Ortega Whole Grain Corn Taco Kit: includes 10 taco shells, 1 packet taco seasoning mix and 1 packet taco sauce head iceberg lettuce, diced cups halved cherry tomatoes cups (8 ounces) shredded Cheddar cheese cup Ortega Guacamole Style Dip cup mayonnaise

Heat olive oil in medium skillet over medium heat.

Add onion; cook and stir 4 minutes or until translucent. Add beef; cook and stir 5 minutes or until no

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6 servings

longer pink. Drain and discard fat. Stir in water; add seasoning mix and taco sauce from taco kit; mix well.

Cook and stir 5 to 6 minutes or until thickened.

Break taco shells from taco kit into bite-sized pieces in large salad bowl. Add lettuce, tomatoes and cheese; toss to combine. Add meat mixture; toss to combine.

Combine guacamole dip and mayonnaise in small bowl; pour over salad. Toss lightly. Serve warm salad immediately.

Tip: For more color and nutrition, add other fresh vegetables to the salad, including shredded carrots, sliced radishes, sliced cucumbers and broccoli florets.

Warm refried beans in saucepan or in microwave.

Wrap tortillas in lightly moistened paper towels.

Microwave on HIGH (100% power) 20 to 30 seconds, or until pliable.

Fold tortilla in half; spread with refried beans.

Form tortilla into cone shape;* press to adhere outside corner with refried beans.

Fill cones with chicken mixture, lettuce, tomatoes and Cheddar cheese. *To form cone, lay tortilla on work surface.

Holding one pointed end down, grasp other end and bring point to round edge, twisting point under slightly. Curl opposite end around outside of cone and press to adhere with refried beans.

Mini Crab and Cream Cheese Flautas 24 mini flautas 2 cups vegetable oil 1 package (8 ounces) pasteurized crab meat, drained 1 can (4 ounces) Ortega Fired-Roasted Diced Green Chiles, drained 4 ounces cream cheese, softened 6 8-inch flour soft tortillas 1 cup sour cream 1/2 cup Ortega Salsa Verde Heat oil in medium saucepan over medium-high heat to 375째F. Line platter with paper towels.

Combine crab meat, chiles and cream cheese in medium bowl.

Spread about 1/4 cup mixture down middle of tortilla and firmly roll like a cigar. Keep tortilla rolls closed with 4 toothpicks. Cut between toothpicks into four equal pieces; set aside.

Repeat with remaining filling and tortillas.

Place pieces carefully into hot oil.

Cook 1 minute or until golden brown, turning once.

Remove with slotted spoon.

Drain on paper towels.

Combine sour cream and salsa verde in small bowl: mix well.

Serve with flautas as dip.

Chocolate and Cinnamon Tortilla Pudding 8 servings 3/4 cup granulated sugar 1/4 cup water 10 8-inch Ortega Whole Wheat Soft Tortillas, divided 1 cup diced fresh pineapple or canned pineapple, drained 2/3 cup mini chocolate chips, divided 3 eggs 2 cups milk 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon Whipped cream Combine sugar and water in small saucepan over medium-high heat. Cook, stirring occasionally, until sugar melts and begins to bubble. Pour into 9-inch square glass baking dish; tilt pan to evenly coat bottom and sides with sugar.

Tear 5 tortillas into bite-size pieces. Place evenly in baking dish. Sprinkle pineapple and 1/3 cup chocolate chips evenly over top. Tear remaining 5 tortillas; place evenly in baking dish. Sprinkle with remaining 1/3 cup chocolate chips.

Whisk eggs, milk and cinnamon in medium bowl. Pour over layered tortillas in baking dish. Cover surface with plastic wrap, and press down lightly to distribute egg mixture over assembled tortillas. Set aside 30 minutes to allow egg mixture to soak into tortillas.

Preheat oven to 350째F. Bake 53 to 55 minutes or until pudding is firm. Cool 10 to 15 minutes. Serve warm with whipped cream.

Tip: For a Dulce de Leche version of this pudding, replace the chocolate chips with butterscotch chips.

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by Mark Underwood ith Alzheimer’s and other neurodegenerative diseases now starting to affect adults in their 30s, it’s never too early to begin a simple program geared to maintain brain health and stimulate cognitive function, says neuroscience researcher Mark Underwood.

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Underwood says many researchers now believe brain health and memory can be positively influenced by simple things we can do physically, mentally, and nutritionally:

1. Stay physically active.

Regular activity, not necessarily planned exercise, seems to relate to brain fitness. Activities like gardening, dancing and cleaning can improve brain health.

2. Challenge your brain.

Calculate, do word search games and crossword puzzles, and go to lectures, concerts and museums. Learn a foreign language or how to play a musical instrument.

3. Stay socially active.

People who are active in clubs and social networks may hold up better cognitively than those who are less s ocially active.

4. Feed your brain.

The brain and nervous system are comprised of 60 percent fat, so ensure your diet is rich in the Omega 3 essential fatty acids found in coldwater fish, fish oil, and flax oil. Google “brain foods” on the computer and try a few.

Mark Underwood is neuroscience researcher and co-founder and president of Quincy Bioscience in Madison, Wisconsin. He is the author of the book “Gift from the Sea.”

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May 2011

Penelope Rogotzy Life as a Production

As an actress, Penelope Rogotzy is no stranger to changing roles at the drop of a hat. But no role is quite as demanding as her own life, where she juggles the responsibilities of mother of four, actress, publicist and co-owner of the Barn Theatre, in Augusta, Michigan. Penelope is also in charge of hiring apprentices for the theatre.

“It gets hectic sometimes,” she laughed, “but I love it.”

Penelope’s parents were originally from Greece and settled in California.

Theirs was a very artistic home, full of music. Her mother was a violinist and her father a pianist with rehearsals in their home. Penelope’s childhood was full of dance lessons, gymnastics, and singing in the Greek Orthodox Church Choir. Her brothers were musicians also but Penelope was drawn to theatre above all else. She attended San Jose State College in California, where she obtained a degree in Theatre Arts and met her future husband, Brendan Rogotzy. In 1986, she spent her summer as an apprentice at the Barn Theatre, owned by Brendan’s family.

Penelope continued to travel to Michigan and served as an apprentice at the Barn Theatre. She then traveled to Florida at the age of 22 where she met the producer at the Golden Apple Theatre, auditioned, and won a part in a production of 42nd Street. In 1988, Michigan and the Barn Theatre beckoned her back. She married Brendan and the couple moved back and forth between Michigan and Hollywood, where they continued to audition and take acting classes. Finally they settled in Augusta, Michigan where their lives have been centered on family and the Barn Theatre. Above all of her many accomplishments, Penelope is proudest of her children, Luke, Cali, Jacob, and Melina.

“It’s a good life, and a busy one,” Penelope says. For more information about the Barn Theatre call: (269)731-4121 or email them at: barntheatr@aol.com.

- Patti Emanuele

May 2011

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Here are five tips that can help improve your oral hygiene, as well as make your next dental appointment something you can smile about.

1. Brush Long Enough Learning how to brush your teeth properly is the first step to maintaining healthy teeth and gums. It helps minimize the risk of tooth decay and gum disease, the major causes of tooth loss. Spend at least two minutes brushing, which should include 30 seconds brushing each section of your mouth (upper right, upper left, lower right and lower left), both morning and night. And don’t forget to brush your tongue to remove odor-causing bacteria and give you fresher breath.

2. Protect Your Enamel Tooth enamel is the hard outer layer of your teeth. It helps protect your teeth from tooth decay, sensitivity, and is the part of your teeth that people see when you smile. One way enamel loss can occur is when acids from everyday food and beverages, such as fruit, yogurt, salsa, orange juice and sports drinks, attack the tooth surface. If left untreated, enamel loss can lead to larger issues such as cavities. A daily regimen of brushing and rinsing with products containing enamel-strengthening ingredients such as fluoride is the best prevention against enamel loss.

3. Use a Full Oral Care Regimen When it comes to cavity fighting, make sure you are brushing twice a day and flossing at least once a day to remove leftover plaque and food that is trapped in the spaces between your teeth.

Additionally, mouthwash is a powerful means of protecting teeth from decay and removing food particles lodged toward the back of the throat.

4. Fight Bad Breath Bad breath can be caused by a number of things, from the foods you eat to dry mouth, smoking, or even the medications you’re taking. What many people don’t realize is that bad breath could also be a result of poor oral hygiene. To help fight bad breath, make sure you’re practicing proper tooth brushing habits to remove odor-causing bacteria from the mouth, tongue and teeth. You can also try chewing sugarless gum to stimulate saliva flow, which naturally cleanses teeth; eating a nutritious diet, as vitamin deficiency can contribute to bad breath; and using a rinse with fluoride to kill bad breath germs and prevent tooth decay.

5. Change Your Toothbrush Tooth brushing removes plaque, which is the residue that can build up on teeth. Plaque can lead to cavities and gum disease. Be sure to replace your toothbrush (or toothbrush head if you use an electric brush) every three months or so because worn or frayed bristles are not as effective at removing plaque as new bristles.

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Kim Monaghan is a career coach, consultant and owner of Career Connections (www.cc-career.com). She is a certified resume writer, West Michigan Careers in Transitions Coach and a member of the Professional Coaching Association of Michigan. As a certified yoga instructor, RYT, Kim routinely uses wellness strategies to help her clients explore, develop and thrive in healthy careers.

Who’s your client?

Whether it’s a family of five or community of five thousand, the client is the recipient of your service, product or time. If you’re a pet sitter, then anyone who owns a pet could immediately identify with the services you provide. And by identifying with the client’s you serve, you’ve also provided the listener with a glimpse of your character. As someone who cares for pets in the privacy of people’s homes, you’re most likely to be compassionate, responsible, trustworthy and have an entrepreneurial spirit.

What do you do?

Y o u r

C a r e e r

By Kim Monaghan

Briefly outline the services, products or expertise you provide. Examples may include: designing promotional packages for Fortune 500 companies; leading architectural tours of a historic district; owning and operating a cutting-edge bistro; or enhancing women’s inner beauty with the number-one selling cosmetic line. Presenting your career in a compelling way piques the listener’s interest and invites further dialogue. Imagine your own response to any one of the above examples. Odds are you’d like to know the how, where, when and why; in other words, the bigger picture detailing how they got started in these interesting ventures. By providing an intriguing glimpse into your own career, you’ve laid a firm foundation for further dialogue.

What are the benefits?

“Presenting your career in a compelling way piques the listener’s interest and invites further dialogue.”

“What do you do?” This is a question we’re asked (and ask) all the time. The best answer: a concise, to-the-point response that explains how you invest your waking energy. Are you a busy mom of three, an environmental attorney, a commercial plumber or a volunteer for the Red Cross? Whatever your “career,” a solid response to this query, includes the expertise, services or products you provide, a description of your clientele and a brief explanation of the implied benefits. This type of “who, what and why” response is often referred to as the “Elevator Speech.”

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Why an elevator? Consider this scenario: Two people are in an elevator, one a potential client, the other a solutions provider. With limited time to converse, the exchange is concise, informative and intriguing enough invite follow up. Additionally, this “pitch” should encourage new business and build mutually beneficial relationships. When it comes to delivering your elevator speech, avoid a lengthy reply that risks confusing – or losing – the listener. Instead, incorporate a little style in your statement with a polished reply that answers these questions:

Closing your elevator speech with a gentle reminder of how people benefit from your career is a subtle marketing tool. This part of your response provides key information about the benefits gained from making a connection with you. Additionally, it illustrates how your product, service or expertise answers a need, provides a solution or contributes to the greater good.

A simple formula for your elevator speech answers all of the above queries. Take the following example: Who is your client? Elementary age children. What do you do? Teach Spanish. Why is it beneficial? Survival in a global community. Voila! The Elevator Speech: “I’m a bilingual teacher, leading an elementary school Spanish immersion program that helps children thrive in a global community.”

The final element is the polish, which includes the most important ingredient – You! A great elevator speech rings true to who you are and suits as comfortably as a favorite pair of jeans. It’s simple, inviting and an honest reflection of you.

The 2011 Glass Ceiling Award Each year, the Kalamazoo Network Glass Ceiling Award is presented to a woman in our community who has broken through the traditional barriers to obtain success. The recipient is either the “first” or one of few women to achieve a particular level of professional success her field, and inspires other as a role model.

This year’s chosen recipient will be presented with the Glass Ceiling Award at the Kalamazoo Network meeting on May 10 at the Fetzer Center. She will join the ranks of other area respected women who have achieved greatness in their professional careers. Past recipients include Gloria Tiller, Dr. Eileen Wilson-Oyelaran, Lori Moore and Dr. Janice Brown.

Kalamazoo Network President, Maria Pavletic, is excited about this year’s Glass Ceiling Award recipient. “Our organization is all about being a resource for women in the area, and recognizing women who serve as an inspiration for all of us. This year’s recipient definitely fits that role.”

Local business woman, Gloria Tiller – last year’s recipient of this prestigious award, continues to be an inspiration with her driving passion in running her successful business and leading the grass roots organization, Buy Local – Greater Kalamazoo. This year’s Glass Ceiling Award recipient will join Tiller as serving as a role model for many.

Learn more about the Kalamazoo Network Glass Ceiling Award and the special May program at www.kalamazoonetwork.org Tuesday, May 10 5:15 – 8pm Fetzer Center / WMU Campus Kalamazoo $20 1st Guests & Members FREE Parking Maria Pavletic, Independent Marketing and Web Consultant with Pavletic Consulting and Design, LLC. She is currently serving as the President for Kalamazoo Network.

Jane Tamraz 2011 Glass Ceiling Award Recipient

Jane Tamraz didn’t set out to break through any “glass ceilings,” she has just been Jane at her best. She is the recipient of the Glass Ceiling Award from the Kalamazoo Network, a distinction given to a woman who has broken through the traditional barriers to obtain success. She is receiving this award for her achievements and contributions to Biggs/Gilmore digital advertising, where she is the CEO. “It has always been a great advertising agency,” Jane said. “Back then, it was more of a traditional agency.” Jane began as Journalism major at Michigan State. When she graduated she was a public relations assistant for Bronson for 12 years, a client of Biggs/Gilmore, which she joined in 1993. In 2000 she and Mike Gerfen purchased the agency, transforming it into a digital advertising company. She was a woman amidst a sea of men’s suits, but Jane never saw obstacles, just opportunities.

Together Jane and Mike changed the culture of the company to what she describes as, “transparent, open, fun”. The company catapulted to 35% growth in a competitive market and in an economically challenging atmosphere. The agency boasts clients such as Kimberly Clark, Heinz, and Independent Health.

Jane is also a mentor for other women in business, juggling her workload with family life. She and her husband, Mike March, have two daughters, Lilly, who is a freshman at the University of Michigan, and Madeline, a Portage Northern freshman.

“She’s the best thing that ever happened to this company and to the women working here,” says an employee.

Jane strives to keep high standards in her work and the agency. She has a “we can do it together” philosophy, and her attitude has created a “can do” atmosphere.

This attitude and her achievements have helped her not only break through the glass ceiling, but perhaps inspire other women to do the same.

- Patti Emanuele May 2011

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Kelly Duggan Image Consulting and WLSK Magazine are pleased to present the final chapter in our series of …….

Looking Good-Looking Wonderful Make-over Journey With the luck of the draw at the Women’s LifeStyle EXPO a fun and fantastic journey began – for the winners Sue and Kerry. Working with two fantastic ladies, the intent was to assist our winners in fine tuning their personal style. Both women were perfect for this style journey….each one had a confident style about them and were eager to begin.

Great personal style is one that is true and authentic to you. It understands and respects who you are and is not a reinvention, but a creation of a better you.

With this belief in mind, we began our journey with an assessment of physical characteristics, lifestyle needs, and the desires & needs of our winning recipients.

The Plan Our first steps were in assessing color characteristics, proportion-line & body features, and clothing personality. These are the core principles in developing great personal style. Kerry and Sue began their assignments by creating a personal ‘Style File’ – a fun and informative exploration project of discovering what suites them best in all aspects of creating a personal style as well as a professional presence.

Kerry’s Personal Style Kerry is best in Cool (temperature) Soft (Intensity) Muted (flow) colors. Her very best colors are rich and muted with a medium color contrast best suiting her natural coloring. Her style and grooming is best displayed in a contemporary natural professional presence with softly tailored lines. Kerry’s wardrobe

Before

provided us with a brown core garment grouping that allowed us to build from and grow her wardrobe style.

Sue’s Personal Style Sue’s best colors are Cool (temperature) Muted (Intensity) Medium light-dark (Value). Colors that are extremely dark or bright will be harsh on her, and colors that are very light will create a washed out appearance. Her style and grooming is best displayed in an energized creatively classic ensemble. Sue’s wardrobe needs required we lay a new foundation to build from. The hunt for a good dress pant and professional casual suit was on.

Next, we took this learned information of physical and personal characteristic traits and embodied them in the creation of great style. With this information we were better able to define choices in not only wardrobing, but also in color, style, and technique best for make-up, hair, and all finishing needs. It gave a compass to guide us in making the decision for what was best for Kerry and Sue.

May 2011

Our winner’s journey included…..

- Cosmetic dentistry with Dr. Susan Dennis, D.D.S. -

Skin care and facial rejuvenation services by Dana and Gina of Great Lakes Plastic and Hand Surgery Center

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Image assessments, wardrobe planning & development, personal shopping , make-up technique and photographic make-up by Kelly at KDIC

Hair style summary profiles were created for the hair stylist. Aesthetic care had begun with cosmetic dental bleaching procedures and skin care and facial rejuvenation services. With a select team of expert co-sponsors no detail was left undone for a complete visual make-over experience .…..and we began to see the transition in to great defined personal style.

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Wardrobe sponsored by WLSK Magazine and winner’s personal items

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Hair – color, cut, and styling by Myra and Lori of Eve Salon & Spa

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Manicure & pedicure by Morgan and Emily of Eve Salon & Spa

Wardrobe development began with an even deeper look at the true demands on these ladies wardrobes –

The results – well, pictures speak louder than words……

Sue Meisheri Kerry Tapper

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both being moms and busy business owners. On average women are dressed 420 hours a month! The need of having garments that fit both the individual and their lifestyle have to intersect! With the wardrobing principles and strategies, and needs known, we determined the best garments to keep within Kerry and Sue’s current wardrobes and created a list of garments and accessories to complete a functioning core cluster of garments…giving them each a great start of a new, and deeper, way of looking at style and wardrobe development.

Before

• Find a hair style that fits your face. Work with your stylist to find a style that matches your lifestyle and complements your facial shape.

• Say “good-bye” to stained teeth. Pearly white teeth encourage you to smile more, and a smile always helps you feel more vibrant. Ask your dentist about laser whitening or at-home whitening kits.

• Freshen skin. Chemical peels, skin resurfacing, lasers and microdermabrasion can reap beautiful results. Your skin care professional can help you find the right treatment, which are done in the office.

• Healthy Legs. Having gorgeous legs can keep you looking youthful. More than 50% of women experience varicose or spider veins, which can be unsightly and painful. Treatment is available to treat damaged veins including Laser Assisted Sclerotherapy.

• Shaving, waxing, creams, electrolysis, laser or sugaring are all options to remove unwanted hair. For unruly brows, be sure to see a specalist in eyebrow shaping. Eyebrow shaping frames and flatters your eyes. A good eyebrow designer will create a brow shape that’s right for your face.

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Serve up a sweet surprise with these delicious new recipes and baking tips from Ingrid Hoffmann.

Chocolate Flan Cake Makes 18 to 20 servings • Ready in 8 hours Cake 1/2 cup Smucker’s® Caramel Flavored Topping 1 (18.25-ounce) box Pillsbury® Moist Supreme® Devil’s Food Premium Cake Mix 1/2 cup Crisco Pure Vegetable Oil 3 large eggs 1 1/4 cups water Flan

Caribbean Pineapple-Lime Ice Cream 12 servings • Ready in 4 hours

1 (20-ounce) can crushed pineapple in pineapple juice, undrained 1 (14-ounce) can Eagle Brand Sweetened Condensed Milk 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice 1 teaspoon grated lime peel 2 teaspoons vanilla extract 4 to 5 drops yellow food coloring (optional) 1 cup heavy cream

COMBINE undrained pineapple, sweetened condensed milk, lime juice, lime peel, vanilla and food coloring, if desired, in a large bowl; mix well.

WHIP cream in medium bowl with electric mixer at medium speed until stiff peaks form.

Fold into pineapple mixture.

POUR into 9 x 5-inch loaf pan or 2-quart freezer-safe container. Cover; freeze until firm, about 3 hours.

Ingrid Hoffmann’s Spring Dessert Tips & Inspirations • Surprise guests with a new twist on the traditional Latin-American

dessert with a Chocolate Flan Cake. A velvety-textured flan custard is layered with a rich chocolate cake for a perfect marriage of sweet and creamy.

• Fruits paired with rich cream cheese create a delicious combination in this cheesecake recipe. Find seasonal inspiration by visiting local farmers markets.

• Homemade ice cream is easier than you think. Make Caribbean Pineapple Lime Ice Cream in three simple steps with Eagle Brand Sweetened Condensed Milk. Or create an artisan inspired ice cream flavor at home by combining spices like chipotle or cinnamon with lime zest, fresh or frozen blueberries or raspberries and add to your ice cream mixture

4 ounces cream cheese, softened 4 large eggs, at room temperature 1 (14-ounce) can Eagle Brand Sweetened Condensed Milk 1 (12-fluid ounce) can PET® Evaporated Milk 1 teaspoon vanilla extract HEAT oven to 350°F. Coat 12-cup fluted tube pan with no-stick cooking spray. Place piece of rolled up foil in tube opening of pan to prevent cake from baking over top. Pour caramel flavored topping into prepared pan.

PREPARE cake mix according to package directions using the oil, eggs and water. Pour evenly over caramel flavored topping.

COMBINE cream cheese, eggs, sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk and vanilla in blender container.

Process until blended. Pour slowly over cake batter.

COAT piece of foil with no-stick cooking spray. Cover pan tightly with foil and place coated side down. Place pan in large roasting pan. Pour hot water into roasting pan to a depth of 2 inches.

BAKE 2 hours or until toothpick in center still has a few moist crumbs. Place cake on cooling rack. Cool 15 minutes. Remove foil and invert onto serving plate. Cool 1 hour at room temperature. Chill 4 hours or overnight.

TIP: Be careful when inverting hot cake onto serving plate. Place plate upside down on top of pan, place another cooling rack on top, then invert.

Visit www.eaglebrand.com or www.marcaeagle.com for more recipes and helpful tips from Ingrid Hoffmann.

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for Your Home

By Ashley Cole

o you feel overwhelmed when making decisions on color? You’re not alone. One of the most common issues I help my clients with is selection of color for their home.

Because we realize the power it has in transforming a space and how it effects our emotional state while in that space, it can be intimidating. Color can enhance feelings of health and well being, make a space feel warm or cool, transform perceived space, illuminate dark areas and energize static areas. Being so influential, color truly transforms an environment. So, how do you begin to make the best selections for your home?

D

Get inspired. Think of places or things that spark a positive feeling. Pull ideas from travel magazines, interior design books, nature and photographs. Review what inspires you most and notice common color themes for a starting point.

Use existing pieces. Draw from a favorite existing item in your home. A cherished piece of artwork, an area rug, a vase or a fabric on a pillow or furniture can inspire color choice. For example, select a patterned fabric with multi-colors in it and pull two or three colors to match paint or other complementary fabrics.

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If a particular color makes you feel good, go with it!

Limit number of colors. As a general rule of thumb, stay within 3-4 colors in a room. Use the 60-30-10 rule: 60% of a dominate color (walls), 30% of a secondary color (upholstery on furniture and windows) and 10% of accent color (accessories).

Vary the value. Categorize colors as light, medium or dark. Your palette should have some in each category.

The safe bet is to keep large items in the medium range and then punch things up with light and dark accents.

Don’t forget that materials such as wood also have a color and value. Keep this in consideration when selecting colors for other materials.

Go with the flow. To create a natural flow from one room to the next, choose a color you’re using in one room and restate it in a different way in an adjoining space. For example, if your sofa is green, use the same green for seat fabric in the dining room. Another way to accomplish this is continuing at least one wall of the same color into the next room or space.

Try it on. Borrow samples of upholstery fabric, flooring finishes or window treatments. Buy a quart of paint and do a brush-out on a good size board to allow you to move

Photo courtesy Dutch Boy Paint

How to

it around the room. See how the color changes with different light throughout the day.

Start small. If you’re not sure about a bold color move in a large way, bring it in with a small accessory first.

Maybe you’re thinking of a deep blue sofa, but not sure how you feel about it. Buy some pillows in that color and place them on your existing sofa. See how it speaks to you over time before incorporating it in a larger way.

Relax! Have fun! It’s only color. Paint, in particular, is one of the most economical ways to change color for very little money. If you make a mistake, it’s OK to paint over it. Don’t be concerned about whether or not a color is “in” or “out.” Trust your gut. If a particular color makes you feel good, go with it!

Ashley Cole is a professional interior designer based in Grand Rapids. Her work has been featured on HGTV as well as numerous publications, including Kitchen Trends and Home Magazine. Ashley’s passion is “creating environments that enliven the spirit.” Visit her at www.ashleycoledesign.com

CORKLANE DECORATING CENTER Let Us Design Your Dreams 1101 E Cork St. Kalamazoo 342-6894

Free Consultations & Installation on Draperies Quality Fabric Superior Workmanship & Best Prices Additional Discounts/Monthly Specials Available

May 2011

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When You Don’t Know What to Say

Do you ever feel at a loss for words when a friend or loved one is grieving?

Struggling to find the right words to say to someone who is grieving can be awkward and keep us from expressing care to others. If you say the wrong thing, you can actually make matters worse, says Aurora Winter, Founder of the Grief Coach Academy, and author of “From Heartbreak to Happiness.”

Here are some tips on what to say at a funeral or wake to comfort people in bereavement: Do say: “You’re not alone – I’m here. I can’t imagine how painful this must be for you. My heart goes out to you. What specifically can I do to support you? Grief is a normal and natural reaction to loss.”

Don’t say: Don’t feel bad. Be grateful you had her so long. At least you have other children. You’re young. You can get another husband/wife/ child. It just takes time.

“Time alone does not heal,” says Winter, who founded the Grief Coach Academy after the death of her husband. She is passionate about helping grieving people. “The right actions heal. Get support and talk to someone, such as a certified grief coach.”

It’s a relief to a grieving person to talk about their loss. Here are three steps to supporting someone who is in bereavement: 1) Acknowledge (their feelings and the situation), 2) Listen without fixing, and 3) Give hope and encouragement.

If you’re at a loss for words, there is nothing wrong with being authentic and simply stating, “I don’t know what to say.”

“Healing is a process, and there is a light at the end of the tunnel,” says Winter.

Winter’s book, “From Heartbreak to Happiness,” is her intimate diary of healing after her husband died suddenly at the age of 33, leaving her widowed with a 4-year-old son.

“If I can go from heartbreak to happiness, you can, too,” says Winter.

As a resource to comfort grieving people, “From Heartbreak to Happiness” is available as a complimentary ebook at www.FromHeartbreakToHappiness.com. To learn more about how to help grieving people, you can get a free CD online at www.GriefCoachAcademy.com.

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May 2011

Facebook – The greatest marketing tool… or a colossal waste of time?

If you happen to be among the living today, you may know about this little thing called Facebook. Initially created as a networking site for a university, Facebook is rapidly becoming the basic mode of communication for a nation of people starving to share their thoughts, opinions and photos of everything and anyone on the planet. We all know it’s a terrific way of connecting with friends but is Facebook really the greatest marketing tool to ever come along?

Yes…but you sure can muck it up if you don’t do it right. Facebook lets people share stories and connect with their community – giving groups, organizations and local businesses a uniform “voice” they didn’t have just 10 years ago. It also allows for positive interaction. TV stations and other news outlets now encourage input from their Facebook fans – asking for news story ideas and getting a pulse on how their fans feel about particular topics.

Once a one-way dialogue, social media has allowed traditional news mediums to open up the conversation.

If you’re thinking of creating a Fan Page for your business or profession, or already have one, keep in mind that the purpose of

your page is to give your fans information that they will find interesting – NOT to sell your product. A simple rule is to provide 90% value and 10% content – meaning that if your page isn’t value-driven and interesting, you’ll lose fans quicker than American Idol.

The day of the week also plays a role in the effectiveness of your presence on Facebook. People are most apt to be cruising on Facebook at the beginning of the week, and less so as the week progresses.

And don’t fret if you’re not a writer. You can still keep the conversation going by simply sharing articles of interest that relate to your business. If you’re a jeweler, you might post an article about the latest trends in watches. Or a realtor might share a local article relating to an historic home that has recently been renovated.

A simple post, 2-3 times weekly on Facebook will give you and your business appropriate “face-time.”

Can Facebook also be a colossal waste of time? In the words of Sarah Palin, “You betcha!” While you can post something of significance and receive zero comments, you can also post, “Is 3:30 too early for a glass of wine?” and immediately receive a dozen “likes” and a truck-load of confirmations. Facebook, like everything in life, is all about balance. Whether you’ve embraced FarmVille and a multitude of other games, or simply visit a couple times a week, Facebook is what you make it.

So go on…Get on Facebook and say something.

I’ll friend you!

Juli Wiseman & Heidi McCrary own Ad Shop, etc., a boutique advertising agency bringing big business success to locally owned businesses. Email us at heidi@adshopetc.com or find us on Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter (@AdShopetc) or call (269) 978-8800.

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What does the body of a mid-life woman look like? According to media that targets women, 40 is the new 30. They say that our rapidly changing mid-life bodies – post childbearing and experiencing the first symptoms of peri-menopause – are supposed to look as fresh and dewy as that of a 30-year-old.

C’mon now …

Peruse the headlines of women’s magazines, most of which tout some sort of weight loss/diet craze and you’ll find this to be true. The covers portray thin and perfectly coifed women, mostly celebrities we admire. What is the message here? “Be thin. Be beautiful. Work hard on your body, on your appearance, and happiness will be yours.”

• Move (exercise) your body so that you have the freedom of mobility, energy and strength to do what you want to do later in life. Begin by doing what is appropriate for your current physical condition and then challenge yourself to do a little more each day.

• Look at your body with kind eyes. Instead of focusing on bumps and bulges when you look in the mirror, learn to love those parts of yourself that have changed. They are a vital piece of your life story, especially if your body has changed due to ill health, injury or surgery. Cast loving glances at yourself all throughout the day. Wink at yourself. Smile.

Your Body,

Janice Lynne Lundy I tell you for a fact that the body I am walking around in right now (at the ripe age of 57, which is technically beyond mid-life) is not going to look like it did when I was in my 30s or 40s. Even if I were able to do Pilates, weight train, jog and yoga-cize myself to the extreme, my body vessel would still look and behave differently. Why? Because mid-life body changes are real and do not always fit the media hype of “ideal.”

With aging, metabolism slows. Bones thin.

Stamina may diminish. Various health risks increase. These factors invite mid- and late-life women into a new relationship with their bodies.

Despite our good intentions, most of us continue to feel badly about ourselves, believing that we are falling short of a standard for how women our age are supposed to look.

Did you know that 75 percent of American women think they’re too fat? Less than five percent of women say they like their body the way it is. What will it take for us to turn off these esteem-damaging expectations and learn to love our bodies once and for all? Women’s bodies are meant to be soft and pliable. They need to be able to grow and expand through pregnancy and nursing. As menopause arrives, our bodies naturally add inches to protect us from injury due to diminishing bone density.

In the spirit of celebrating mid-life instead of bemoaning it, let’s cultivate a new and loving relationship with our bodies, with our maturing selves – one that honors who we are right now.

Care to join me? We can begin by adopting a new mid-life mantra: “Real women have real bodies.”

• Talk nicely to your body. Offer it thanks for serving you well over the years. Eliminate self-critical language and replace disparaging words with encouraging ones: “You are doing great.” “I appreciate your resilience.” “I’m grateful for your companionship.”

• Release standards of perfection and embrace how you are making headway instead. My favorite personal mantra is, “Progress not perfection.” It allows me to be kind to myself as I am in this moment, while welcoming in new growth.

• Vow to love yourself more. According to Peter McWilliams, author of the book, Love 101, love means taking good care of yourself, with occasional splurges of pampering. Treat your body to self-nourishing rituals (massage, rest, spa treatments). Gestures like these send messages of care, worth and kind regard to your body. By loving your body more, it will love you back with feelings of ease and well-being.

May we begin to see our mid-life bodies as wonderful vehicles that carry us through life and not as something to be wrestled or reckoned with. May we be less concerned with weight, sizes and appearance, and focus more on how to treat ourselves in loving ways. May we give our bodies the love and respect they deserve. Body ease can be ours, one loving choice at a time.

Consider the following invitations: • Nurture your body by putting nutritious food into it, not for the purpose of looking a certain way or for weight loss, but for enhanced health and longevity. Choose to give your body engine the good fuel it needs to be strong and resilient.

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Janice Lynne Lundy is an Interfaith Spiritual Director, and the author of four spiritual growth books for women, including Your Truest Self. She offers online courses and retreats at BuddhaChick.org. Visit her online community of women who desire to live more calm, clear and wise at DharmaSistersCircle.Org.

Draperies on Wheels Draperies on Wheels has been flourishing in Kalamazoo for 25 years. They were one of the first in their industry to offer a free inhome decorating consultation. This enabled customers to shop for custom window fashions from the comfort of their own homes. Beginning as an in-home treatment and decorating service, today they provide services and product choices which include quality custom furniture and decorating services.

Owners Tim and Ava Green have continued to offer this distinctive in-home service. When customers think of Draperies on Wheels they know that they will receive quality products, reliability and convenience for their busy lives.

In 2006, the Green’s expanded their services to move beyond window fashions opening a new location and creating a new logo. With the same passion and dedication they’ve always been known for, DOW Home was born occupying a 10,000 square foot design studio that offers decorative accessories, furniture and custom interior design consultations. For more inspiration, Tim and Ava offer their vendor’s websites, Uttermost, www.uttermost.com, IMAX Worldwide Imports, www.imaxcorp.com and CBK, www.mwcbk.com, as well as their own: www.dowhome.net At DOW Home displays assembled in their showroom inspire shoppers with decorating ideas and showcase faux finishes, glazes, textures, plus a large variety of faux products moving the customer to think beyond just paint.

Visit DOW Homes, 427 West Cork Street, Kalamazoo, or call 269-3270110. DOW Homes, www.dowhome.net

Forensic Fluids Laboratories When an employer seeks a reliable drug-testing facility, Forensic Fluids Laboratories is the one they use. Bridget Lorenz Lemberg, owner, started the business in 2005. As a Forensic Toxicologist for 19 years, Bridget has testified in court regarding drug and alcohol levels found in urine, blood, serum, saliva and other matrices.

Ms. Lemberg began her career in the central crime lab with the Kentucky State Police where she ran blood, serum, urine, vitreous humour, and other samples in the lab. Her next position was working with the South Bend Medical Foundation, a SAMHSA laboratory which tested primarily urine samples. Then in 2001 she went to work for one of the first saliva drug testing units, which developed LC/MS/MS methods for saliva.

Forensic Fluids Labs offers complete privacy as the test is a “stick in the mouth”, guaranteed results in 72 hours or less, and results that stand up in court.

Forensic Fluids Laboratories can identify and measure more than 100 different drugs because of the Waters Quatro Micro LC/MS/MS, the most sensitive instrument available. Other labs use a single MS. At Forensic Fluids Labs their MS/MS allows them to identify more drugs at lower levels.

Drugs can be ordered if they are not on the available list.

Forensic Fluids Laboratories uses FDA approved ELISA plates for all of our drug screens. A frequently asked questions page is available on their website: www.forensicfludis.com/faq.htm Forensic Fluids Testing, 225 Parsons Street, Kalamazoo, MI 49007 Tel: (269) 492-7700

Elizabeth Forest, Elizabeth El Forest, CMT CMT IIn Integrative ntegrative approaches approaches to restoring restoring w ellness to wellness Traditional Massage Therapy Tradit Tr Oncology Onco Massage Member Memb AMTA & S4OM www. www. w.el eliz el izab iz abet ab ethf et hfor hf ores or estw es twelln twel elln lnes ess. es s.co s. com com www.elizabethforestwellness.com

Patti Emanuele is a freelance writer and author of six books who has contributed to newspapers, magazines and other publications. Her writing experience includes teaching English and writing skills to adults, writing fundraising and corporate materials, copy for commercials and other aspects of advertising.

for ffo or a or appointment ppoiintment ntment call call

(269) 615-0860 (269) 615-0860 May 2011

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By Jane Thiel, APRN, WHNP-BC

s you toss and turn, the alarm clock ticks from 2:30 to 3 am.

Your husband is snoring and even the dog is sleeping! If you can’t get to sleep, you may have insomnia. Here’s what you should know:

What is Insomnia?

Insomnia is the inability to fall asleep or remain asleep throughout the night. Women with insomnia do not feel refreshed upon awakening; energy levels are low, fatigue often sets in, job performance suffers, and over time can lead to major quality of life issues.

Most adults need six to eight hours of sleep per night, yet it’s estimated that 20 percent of all adults suffer from chronic insomnia.

What are the symptoms?

Difficulty falling asleep, awakening during the night and having trouble getting back to sleep, and/or early awakening. Individuals with insomnia suffer from fatigue, irritability, anxiety and even depression.

They also have problems focusing and frequently have increased errors and accidents.

What causes insomnia?

travelers have interrupted circadian rhythms that can interrupt sleep. Chronic medical conditions, especially those involving pain, frequently create sleep problems. Age alone is a factor; as we get older we spend less time in the deeper levels of sleep that are more restorative. Perimenopausal women often have severe sleep issues secondary to drenching night sweats.

How is insomnia diagnosed?

If you think you have a sleep problem, see your healthcare provider. As a nurse practitioner, I always take a detailed history including sleep habits, perform a complete physical exam, and obtain a thyroid screen and other possible lab tests looking for conditions that might contribute to sleep issues. In some cases, a sleep study is performed in a laboratory or diagnostic setting with testing done for brain waves, heart rate, breathing and body movements. These studies are especially helpful in diagnosing sleep apnea and restless leg syndrome, which are conditions requiring special medications and/or medical equipment.

There are many causes of insomnia, with the top three causes in women being stress, anxiety and depression. Women are twice as likely as men to develop insomnia. Prescription medications such as antidepressants, heart and blood pressure meds, allergy meds, and stimulants such as Ritalin can cause insomnia.

What are treatments for insomnia?

Over-the-counter medications such as decongestants, weight loss products and products containing caffeine can also add to sleepless nights. Caffeine, nicotine and alcohol consumed later in the day can interfere with falling asleep and remaining asleep.

Swing shift workers and long distance business

• Use bed for sleep and sex only.

• Maintain good sleep habits, even on weekends.

Go to bed and get up around the same time.

• Don’t nap.

• Avoid large meals before bedtime and do not consume caffeine, alcohol or nicotine later in the day.

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May 2011

• Keep bedroom cool, dark and quiet. Use “white noise” such as a fan to block out environmental/background noise. Get computers, cell phones and other electronic equipment out of the bedroom (that includes the 10-inch digital clock!).

• Practice relaxation techniques, such as biofeedback, breathing exercises, a warm bath or partner massage.

• Sometimes, medication helps when used shortterm. Medications your health care provider may prescribe include Ambien (zolpidem), Lunesta (eszopiclone), Sonata (zaleplon) and Rozerem (ramelteon). Most experts advise against long-term use of sleep meds. Over-the-counter sleep aids are helpful for some women. Most of these contain diphenhydramine (ex. Benadryl), a first generation antihistamine; the main side effect being drowsiness. Combination products such as Tylenol PM or Advil PM simply add Tylenol or Advil to diphenhydramine; hence, adding some pain relief to the formulation.

• Silence the noisy bed partner. Suggesting that your snoring bed partner seek evaluation is appropriate.

Frequently this very noisy condition is actually sleep apnea, a true sleep disorder that has major health ramifications.

• Perimenopausal women often benefit greatly with some form of hormone therapy. Estrogen lessens vasomotor symptoms and helps create deeper levels of sleep. Ask your health care provider for more information.

Jane B. Thiel, APRN, WHNP-BC is a nurse practitioner at Grand Rapids Women’s Health and has been in practice for 33 years. She enjoys working with women of all ages and many seek her out for her experience in menopausal issues.

May 2011

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CALENDAR

of Events

May 1 Fundamentals of Animal Massage Held at Institute for Massage Education at KCHA, 6350 West KL Ave. 8:30 am – 5 pm. Learn the basics of animal massage in this exciting workshop. This course is ideal for pet owner and horse owner alike who wish to learn skills to support their animal's health and longevity. $65.

Register at www.nwsam.com May 1 Santa Rosa Labyrinth Walk Parish Church of Christ the King, Texas Dr. & 8th St., Kalamazoo. 1 pm - 1:30 pm. People of different faith traditions walking the outdoor labyrinth to give thanks for the gifts of the Earth. There will be drumming, prayers and music. All are welcome. Free. For more info: (269) 388-2988 or www.parishchurch.org May 1 Paint a Floral Bouquet for Mom Happy Our Art, Oakwood Plaza. 1 - 3pm. Ages 8 to adult. $25. 269-343-5670 or rebecca@happyourart.com.

May 1 "We Care about Mother Earth" Art Exhibit Parish Church of Christ the King, Texas Dr. & 8th St. Kalamazoo Reception: 1:30 - 3 pm. Featuring the multimedia work of artists from Allegan, Battle Creek, Kalamazoo, Portage and children of the Parish Church. Free. www.parishchurch.org or (269) 388-2988.

May 1 – 31 Free Borgess Bariatric Seminars Borgess Medical Center. Time for a change in your life? These monthly seminars are presented

by Dr. Stuart Verseman of the Borgess Bariatric Center and provide information on laparoscopic bariatric surgery including gastric bypass and adjustable gastric banding, as well as counseling on dietary, psychological and insurance issues.

Call 269-226-6863 to register or visit bariatrics.borgess.com.

May 2 & 16 Massage as a Profession Workshop Institute for Massage Education at KCHA, 6350 West KL Ave. 6 - 8 pm. Learn about the realities and rewards of a career in massage therapy. This is a FREE workshop. Reservations requested, 269-373-0910. www.kcha.com May 2, 9, 16, 23 Computer Training Parchment Community Library. 6:30 - 7:30 pm.

Training will be conducted by Dustin Lancaster, a Microsoft Certified professional from Clark Technical Services. Classes are limited to 8 participants. $5 per session. Registration required at 343-7747, or online at www.parchmentlibrary.org.

May 3 Vicki Lawrence & Mama: A Two-Woman Show Miller Auditorium. 3 – 5 pm. Special Mother's Day Event! A Two-Woman Show is packed full of excitement and entertainment that includes music, comedy and, of course, observations about life through Mama's eyes. $30 - $40. 269387-2300. www.millerauditorium.com May 5 Inforum Meeting Location TBD. 5:30 – 7:30 pm; Celebrate women who dare to lead. Join author Anne Doyle to launch “Powering Up: How America’s Women Achievers Become Leaders.” For more information, visit www.inforummichigan.org

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May 5 Cinco de Mayo Chilli Peppers Happy Our Art, Oakwood Plaza. 6:30 pm, 5 paint for $5 off. 269-343-5670 or rebecca@happyourart.com.

May 5, 19 Free Vein Screening Premier Vein Center. If your legs ache or feel heavy, Schedule your FREE painless screening.

We can tell right away if you may have a vein disease. Register at http://www.premierveincenter.com/vein-screening 269.388.6350 May 6 An Alternative Hop Downtown Kalamazoo. 5 – 9 pm. It's an alternative Art Hop. This one-time event celebrates the wild and unusual art that is fun, funky, and crazy but certainly not traditional. Free. 269-344-0795. www.downtownkalamazoo.org May 6 Relay for Life Fundraiser Art Bayou Studio. 6 – 9 pm. Team Motter is sponsoring a Relay for Life Fundraiser event at Art Bayou. Your studio fee will be donated towards the Relay for Life cancer walk. Feel free to bring your own snacks and beverages. Please rsvp as space is limited. 269-375-2600. www.artbayoustudio.com May 7 Mom-to-Mom Sale Kalamazoo County Expo Center. 9 am – 2 pm.

Giant sale of gently used children's clothes, toys, and other accessories plus maternity items.

Adults $3, children 12 and under are free. For more info contact Rob Wagley at 269-344-0111 or rob.wagley@cumulus.com www.wkfr.com May 7 World Labyrinth Day Transformations Spirituality Center. 10 am - 1:30 pm. Learn about labyrinths and the spiritual journey; time for reflection, prayer and walking the labyrinth. $40. Info @ www.transformationscenter.org or info@transformationscenter.org or 269-381-6290 ext. 249.

May 7 Mother's Day Tea Parchment Community Library. 2:00 - 3:30 pm.

Celebrate Mother's Day with your mother and/or daughter at our tea-tasting with Kelly Zajac, new owner of Tudor House Tea. $10 per person. Prepayment and registration required at Parchment Community Library.

May 7 Diva Night Art Bayou Studio. 6 – 9 pm. Ladies night. Paint pottery without the kids! Bring your favorite light snacks and beverages. Space is limited, so please call and reserve your seat 269-375-2600.

Groups of six or more receive a discount. We will do door prizes. Adults only please. 269-3752600. www.artbayoustudio.com May 8 Mom and Me Happy Our Art, Oakwood Plaza. 1 – 3 pm. All ages paint together for $20 each. 269-343-5670 or rebecca@happyourart.com.

May 10 Kalamazoo Network Fetzer Center WMU 5:15 pm Dinner & Program; Networking for business women.

Cost $20. RSVP to www.kalamazoonetwork.org

May 2011

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.

Or you may mail your info to P. O. Box 2284, Portage MI 49081-2284 May 10 Free Health Talks on Treatment for Urinary Leaking in Women with Dr. Roger Beyer Borgess Hospital – Lawrence Education Center, Room 122. 6:30 pm. If you worry about leaking urine when you laugh, cough or sneeze, you don’t have to live with it! Learn more about your options & have your questions answered by Dr. Roger Beyer. Free seminar. RSVP & info: 269372-7600 or http://www.drrogerbeyer.com May 10 Lose Weight Now – Come See How! Join our “Biggest Loser” weight Loss Challenge.

Lose weight - Win Cash- Have Fun! 12 Week Nutrition Class, Group Support, Personal Coaching $35. Call 269-207-5019 to Pre-register.

May 10, 17, 24 Yoga to Manage Mood Awake and Aware. 7:30 – 8:30 pm. Reduce depression, calm anxiety, and find balance. Cost: $70/ 7 wks. Call Colleen 269-998-5687 May 10, 24 Michigan Professional Womens Resource The Beacon Club, 5830 Portage Road. 9 am. We are a womens networking and resource group.

Guest welcome! For more information please call 269-910-3579.

May 11 Mid-Week Sabbath: Planting Seeds for New Life Transformations Spirituality Center. 10 am noon. Preparing the soil of your life for new growth. $20. Info @ www.transformationscenter.org or info@transformationscenter.org or 269-381-6290 ext. 249 May 11 Project Connect Kalamazoo County Expo Center, Hazel Grey. 12 5 pm. Project Connect is a day of assistance for families and individuals living in Kalamazoo County that are in need of services. Medical, personal, basic needs, children’s, educational, and employment services will all be offered at a single location. Free. More info: 269-615-2001 or visit projectconnectkalamazoo.blogspot.com /p/about.html May 11 Vision Quest and Rites of Passage Open House Pennfield. 7 – 8:30 pm. Come hear about our annual event held July 20-24 in western Michigan.

A Vision Quest is a chance to seek guidance from Spirit and find new direction. Rites of Passage ceremonies help us mark key life transitions and integrate what we have learned. RSVP meglarou@gmail.com or 269 966 3116 May 12 – 14 The 3rd Annual Kalamazoo Improv Festival Farmers Alley Theatre. 8 pm & 10 pm. This event will feature some of the finest comedic talent in Chicago along with the best improv performers in Grand Rapids and Kalamazoo. Tickets are $7 for students, $10 general admission for each show, or get a $25 fest pass and see as many shows as you want.

May 12 – 15 Spring Concert of Dance Wellspring Theater. 8 pm. Join Southwest Michigan's premier dance company for the last performance of their 30th Anniversary season! $22 general admission; $12 student with ID; ages 5 and under are FREE. 269-342-4354. www.wellspringdance.org

May 13 Free Stroke Education and Screening Event Borgess Medical Center's Lawrence Education Center Auditorium. 9 am – 2 pm. Whether you hope to prevent stroke from striking you or wish to boost quality of life for someone living after stroke, this event is designed for you. 269-2268135 or 800-828-8135.

May 13 Domestic Violence Prevention Fundraiser Art Bayou Studio. 6 – 9 pm. Help raise money for the prevention of domestic violence. Relax with your friends and your favorite beverages while painting pottery. Your cost is the price of the pottery and your studio fee. Please RSVP to sheilabirdsall@aol.com as space is limited. 269375-2600.

May 14 “Explore Glass Art Day” West Michigan Glass Art Center. 326 W Kalamazoo Ave, Suite 100. 10 am – 4:30 pm. Explore glass art and try your hand at five different projects. Projects start every hour, so when you finish one, you can try another! Watch our website for details. www.wmglass.org Register early; classes fill up fast!

May 14 Papermaking Play!

Kalamazoo Book Arts Center. 1 – 4 pm. Come play in our papermaking studio! Dip your arms into he cool water to pull beautiful sheets of paper. Ages 8 and up. $25 fee. Please call 269373-4938 to register.

May 15 Susan G Komen Southwest Michigan Race for the Cure Arcadia Festival Site in downtown Kalamazoo.

Join an expected 5,000+ participants and volunteers as we come together to fight breast cancer!

The Komen Race for the Cure is an emotionally charged and inspiring event you'll want to be a part of. http://www.komenswmichigan.org /komen-race-for-the-cure/ May 15 See For Yourself Sunday Sherman Lake YMCA camp. 2 – 4 pm. This is your chance to visit camp with your kids, enjoy fun activities like climbing, arts and crafts, archery and more, take a tour, ask the camp directors questions, and register for camp. For more info: 269-731-3030 or www.shermanlakeymca.org May 17 Free Health Talks on Treatment for Urinary Leaking in Women with Dr. Roger Beyer Borgess PIPP Hospital – Lower Level, Rooms 12. 6:30 pm. If you worry about leaking urine when you laugh, cough or sneeze, you don’t have to live with it! You are invited to learn more about your options and have your questions answered by Dr. Roger Beyer at a free seminar.

RSVP and more info: 269-372-7600 or http://www.drrogerbeyer.com May 17 The Kalamazoo MI After 5 Women's Connection The Beacon Club, 5830 Portage Road. 6:30 – 8 pm. Dedicated to connecting women through fellowship, fun and inspiring messages. Business women are welcome! May Meeting Theme: May Baskets, $17. RSVP by May 15 to Karen at 269-290-2216. Info @ www.meetyathen.webs.com

May 18 Summer Mix Cocktail Class Food Dance. 6 – 9 pm. Our secrets revealed!

Mingling style event teaching you how to make FD signature cocktails from scratch. You will get to see cocktails and tini’s mixed up, taste those cocktail and have recipes to take home. $35 per person. 269-382-1888. http://www.fooddance.net

May 21 Diabetes Wellness Conference Lawrence Education Center. 7:30 am – 12 pm.

Spring into better health this year while attending the diabetes education seminar. Learn all about prevention, stress management through yoga and the importance of movement. Pre-registration is required. 269-226-8135 or 800-828-8135.

May 18 Memory Matters – Improve Your Recall Skills An activity filled workshop to improve recall & concentration. Fee: $5 for Senior Center members & $8 for non-members. 1:00 – 3:00 pm.

Portage Senior Center (320 Library Lane) For more info or to register call: 329-4555

May 21 53rd Circus Maximus Antique Toy Show Kalamazoo County Expo Center. 9 am – 2 pm.

Sale of Antique, Vintage and Collectible Toys.

Saturday Admission: $6, free after 1pm. "Early Bird Sales" on Friday from 4pm-8pm, admission: $25. For more information contact Jim Welytok at 262-246-7171 or unievents1@aol.com www.circusmaximustoyshow.com

May 19 Memory Loss Prevention Screening Parchment Community Library. 1 – 4 pm. Dr. Philip Green & Borgess Hospital Staff. Screenings from 1:00 - 2:00 pm. Ages 45 & older may participate. Dr. Green's program following. Free.

Registration required. Registration closes May 12. Please call 343-7747 or register online at www.parchmentlibrary.org May 19 Free Heart Failure and Stroke Education Classes Borgess Health & Fitness Center. 4:30 – 5:30 pm. A nurse from Borgess Visiting Nurse and Hospice will be discussing tips on fall prevention. To register or learn more, call 269-2268135 or 800-828.8135. You can also register online at wellness.borgess.com.

May 19 Ask the Experts – Home Computer Maintenance Parchment Community Library. 6:30 – 8 pm.

Tony and Dustin from Clark Technical Services will be on hand with handy computer maintenance tips and tricks to keep your home computer running smoothly. No registration is necessary. Free program.

May 21 Howard Hill Hustle Kalamazoo Christian High School. It is a community 5K run/walk event with timing provided

by Classic Race Management. There will be a kids 1K fun run following the 5K race. Food and beverages, fabulous door prizes, a silent auction and fun family activities will be available throughout the event. More info: 269-342-0212 or http://www.howardhillhustle.kcsa.org

May 21 Watercolor: The Free Flow of Letting Go Transformations Spirituality Center. 9 am - 3:30 pm. Much like our spiritual journey, painting with watercolors defies precise control, and invites us to let go. $85. Info @ www.transformationscenter.org or info@transformationscenter.org or 269-381-6290 ext. 249 May 21 Marbling Workshop Kalamazoo Book Arts Center. 10 am – 3 pm, with lunch break. In this beginning class participants will learn to prepare materials, create numerous

patterns, and come away with a variety of beautiful sheets that can be used for many purposes. $55 fee. Please call 269-373-4938 to register.

May 22 Decorative Bookbinding Kalamazoo Book Arts Center. 10 am – 3 pm, with lunch break. In this class we will make halfbound hardback books that have cloth and paper covered boards. $55 fee. Please call 269-3734938 to register.

May 25 Risotto Cooking Class Food Dance. 6 – 8 pm. Hand made gnocchi.

Fresh milled polenta. Slow cooked Risotto. Learn about the different styles, versatility of each and the right way to cook and serve all three. $60 per person. 269-382-1888. www.fooddance.net May 25 Indoor Labyrinth Walk Parish Church of Christ the King, Texas Dr. & 8th St. Kalamazoo, 6 pm - 8 pm. Walking a circular path in prayer and meditation. This is an open labyrinth walk. You may come at any time. Free.

(269) 388-2988 or www.parishchurch.org May 27 – 30 West Michigan Apple Blossom Cluster A.K.C. Dog Show Kalamazoo County Expo Center. Shows begin at 7 am daily. Annual Spring event featuring registered dogs from across the Nation. Adults $3, Children 12 and under and Seniors over 65 are admitted free. More info: www.kalamazookennelclub.com May 28 Letterpress Express Kalamazoo Book Arts Center. 1 – 4 pm. Learn to set large wooden type and old-fashioned engravings in this fun printing class for teens. See how books were printed and how a letterpress is operated. $25 fee. Please call 269-373-4938 to register.

May 30 Memorial Day Parade Downtown Kalamazoo. 10 am. This traditional, annual parade kicks off 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. Free. 269-381-4471. www.downtownkalamazoo.org June 1 – 26 2011 West Michigan Area Show Kalamazoo Institute of Arts. Since the 1960s, this annual exhibition has showcased the exceptional work, in all media, of artists from a 14county area surrounding Kalamazoo. www.kiarts.org/page.php?page_id=322 June 3 Art Hop – Expanded Various stores throughout Downtown Kalamazoo. 5 – 9 pm. This is a quarterly art exhibit event co-hosted by the Arts Council of Greater Kalamazoo and Downtown Kalamazoo Inc. Free.

269-344-0795. www.downtownkalamazoo.org June 3 – 4 Art on the Mall Kalamazoo Mall, Michigan to Lovell. Friday Noon – 9 pm, Saturday 10 am – 5 pm. Over 70 artists will sell original works of art and fine crafts. Free. www.downtownkalamazoo.org June 4 Do-Dah Parade Route: Lovell to Park, Park to Michigan, Michigan to Portage, Portage to Lovell. 11 am. It's the official parody of anything and everything. This is the one time where silly and satire rules the streets of downtown Kalamazoo. Free. 269-3440795. www.downtownkalamazoo.org

May 2011

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Conversation Starter

Reader’s Lounge

By Alexandra Fix

Sing You Home

By Jodi Picoult Atria Books, 2011, $28.00

Mary Modern: A Novel

By Camille DeAngelis Shaye Areheart Books, 2008, $13.95 There are shades of a sweeter, kinder Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein tucked within the pages of this novel. Lucy Morrigan, a young genetic researcher, is all too aware of her biological clock ticking. In her desperation to have a child, she takes drastic action. Using bloodstains on an old apron of her grandmother’s, Lucy isolates the DNA and creates a clone of her ancestor. Her plans go awry though when, not a child but a twenty-two year old woman, with memories and yearnings from her past, is created. Once you stretch your imagination to make this story work, it’s time travel with an old-fashioned bent presented in a modern tone.

Once Upon a Time, There Was You

By Elizabeth Berg Random House, 2011, $25.00 John and Irene almost didn’t marry… but they did.

And it didn’t last. One thing did though and that was most important. Together, they had a daughter, Sadie, who is both a joy and a challenge to them both. At age 18, Sadie is strong-willed and determined toward independence. With one parent in San Francisco and the other in Minneapolis, Sadie shuttles back and forth over the years and watches and wonders about her parents’ individual loneliness.

Each is dating another, but Sadie still wonders why their family is split apart.

A frightening crisis for Sadie and shocking news bring John and Irene together to sort through the problem with which they are confronted. As two parts of a failed whole, John and Irene begin to see what they brought and did not bring to their relationship as a couple and as parents. With her usual intimate style, Elizabeth Berg explores the power of love and the strength of family.

Alexandra Fix is the author of ten non-fiction children’s book, including the series “Reduce, Reuse, Recycle” (Heinemann Library). Over the years, she has truly enjoyed being a children’s librarian, registered nurse, freelance writer, mother and grandmother.

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May 2011

After years of fertility issues, lost pregnancies and failed in vitro fertilization attempts, the marriage of Max and Zoe Baxter finally miscarries as well. Unable to go through any more fertility travails, Max leaves Zoe, divorces and moves on. What remains are three frozen embryos, tiny starts of new life, left in storage. As Zoe redirects her life, she falls in love again. This time love is even more complicated.

Zoe has fallen in love with her female friend Vanessa. In time, they make a legal commitment to their relationship and turn their hearts toward using the stored embryos to parent a child together. What they need is simply Max’s signature on the legal paperwork. Before he can sort through his own decision, Max’s new pastor sees the opportunity for grandstanding on the issues of gay marriage and same-sex parenting and steers Max into a courtroom confrontation with his ex-wife.

With her signature complex mix of ethical and personal conflicts, legal twists, religious issues and emotional hot buttons, Jodi Picoult has once again plucked a story from the headlines and given it the face of people we truly care about. A classic Picoult ethical impasse provides an ending that will generate plenty of conversation and opinions among readers.

A music CD accompanies the novel and creates a soundtrack for the story. The novel revolves around Zoe’s work as a music therapist and these songs add an additional layer of understanding to the unfolding story. Lyrics are written by Picoult, as Zoe’s voice, and the music is composed and performed by Ellen Wilber.

May 2011

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