She Means Business - September 2011

September 2011

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Take Me Home

Start Up Smart

“Back” to School Supplies

E s s e n t i a l

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w w w. wo m e n s l i f e s t y l e k a z o o . c o m

Janet Zlomek Pfizer Inc.

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September 2011 Table of Contents

The People Who Make It Happen...

Publisher: Darlene Clifford dclifford@womenslifestylekazoo.com

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

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

SHE MEANS BUSINESS Go Get 'em Girl.................................................................................4 Business Etiquette............................................................................8 Profiles of Kalamazoo Business Women...................................9 - 43 Calm, Clear & Wise at Work ...........................................................18 Resumes that Sizzle.......................................................................27 Start-Up Smarts .............................................................................29 Networking & Resources ................................................................30 Office Under Control.......................................................................32 Job Search Simple .........................................................................36

BACK TO SCHOOL Should You Go Back to School Now? 5 Questions to Ponder .................................................................................16 Back to School Ergonomics .......................................................................................................................................................24 Fun & Games ....................................................................................................................................................24 Classroom Allergies ..........................................................................................................................................24 Making Math & Science Fun for Kids .......................................................................................................................46

BROADEN YOUR HORIZONS Women of History .......................................................................................6 Farmers Market.........................................................................................10 Reader’s Lounge.......................................................................................54

Sales Representatives: Brenda Murphy Maria Pavletic

Layout & Design:

AT HOME

jr4 designs JR Harper

There’s a Party Going On in the Basement ..............................................34

LOOK WHOS TALKING Denise Miller & Michelle Johnson .............................................................14 Janet Zlomer .............................................................................................28

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:

LOOKING & FEELING GOOD Business Bling ........................................................................12 Reboot Your Morning Routine.................................................38 Secrets of the Trade................................................................39 American Cancer Society .......................................................48 In My Humble Opinion ............................................................49 Making Stridges Against Breast Cancer Walk Preview ..........53

HEALTH Osteoporosis and Low Bone Density......................................21 Healthy Ideas ..........................................................................44

BUSINESS & FINANCE Online Banking Safety Tips ........................................................................................................................................5 Starting a Business...Advice From the Trenches........................................................................................................7 Financial Sauvé........................................................................................................................................................26 Networking with the Kalamazoo Network.................................................................................................................30

info@womenslifestylekazoo.com

Website: www.womenslifestylekazoo.com

Coming In October @ Home

RECIPES The Perfect Sandwich Chicken Muffuletta with Spicy Olive Relish Mayonnaise ...22 Turkey Cuban.....................................................................23 Turkey Reuben with Thousand Island Coleslaw ................23 Healthy & Fun Lunch Ideas Turkey and Apple Roll-ups.................................................40 Gluten-Free Vegetable Sandwich ......................................40 Dessert Bars – Sweet Treats for the Office Creamy Orange-Chocolate Truffle Bars.............................42 Quick & Easy Peanut Butter Bars ......................................42 COMMUNITY NEWS & HAPPENINGS Calendar .....................................................................................50 Buy Local ....................................................................................54

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By Kim Monaghan

t a recent networking event I observed a person whose obvious goal was to “work the room.” This particular individual – a marketing executive – presented a polished professional image and winning smile, along with a gregarious personality. At first glance, I was impressed by her ability to “walk up and strike up,” or rather meet and greet other attendees with whom she had no previous acquaintance. But after closer inspection I was taken aback: The body language emanating from those she conversed with was dominated by eye rolls, looks of impatience and hasty dismissals.

Intrigued, I made my own introduction and soon discovered that this seemingly charming networker’s approach could be summed up in a phrase: shake hands, tout accomplishments, ask for business then move to the next “victim.”

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We’ve all met them and try to avoid them – networkers who are out for only one thing: themselves.

What they often lack are the underlying Ps and Qs of networking etiquette: Being engaged, genuine and reliable.

Engaged: Taking the time to employ deep listening skills is not only the foundation for building great relationships; it’s also the cornerstone of win-win business connections. Instead of ruminating on what to say next, focus on what the speaker has to say.

Mentally walk with them as they take you on their journey, whether it’s telling you about their career goals, plans and strategies for business growth, or even their motivation for attending the event. Ask open ended questions and offer your own input when appropriate. People love to talk about themselves and being an active and engaged listener not only elevates their spirits, but provides you with a one-of-a-kind educational opportunity.

Genuineness: Be yourself, be honest and be genuinely interested in getting to know the other person with whom you are talking. Let your body language reflect your interest by maintaining eye contact and an open and thoughtful posture. When it’s your turn to talk, by all means, avoid gossip and exaggerations. Choose to engage in thought-provoking conversation that includes your elevator speech, subjects of mutual interest and even queries for advice. If the connection isn’t working, don’t make any promises that you don’t intend to keep – such as a future phone call or invitation to lunch. Instead, politely excuse yourself or introduce that person to someone you know could benefit from making the connection.

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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.

Reliable: If it’s a win-win connection worth fostering, then by all means extend an invitation for follow up. A chance to capture their attention, continue the dialogue and demonstrate your interest in developing a working relationship is the goal of any networking event. But keep in mind, networking events are designed for people to make several connections, not just one. Even if the connection is a powerful one, don’t monopolize another’s valuable time. Instead extend an invitation to talk further after the event. Then be reliable: Make the phone call within a few days, set a meeting and after the appointment follow up with a professional thank you note.

Remember, a great networker knows that a networking event is not about meeting everyone in the room – unless you are the host. It’s about making a few key contacts with whom you can develop mutually beneficial working relationships. In other words, it’s as much about the other person as it is about you.

Now go get ‘em girl.

Great resources to help you hone your networking skills: The Fine Art of Small Talk: How to Start a Conversation, Keep it Going, Build Networking Skills and Leave a Positive Impression! By Debra Fine. Hyperion, 2005.

Networking for People Who Hate Networking: A Field Guide for Introverts, the Overwhelmed, and the Underconnected by Devora Zack. Berrett-Koehler Publishers, 2010.

Well Connected: An Unconventional Approach to Building Genuine, Effective Business Relationships by Gordon S. Curtis and Greg Lewis. Jossey-Bass, 2010.

From the Publisher

Online Banking

Dear Friends, This edition is dedicated to all of the outstanding business women in Greater Kalamazoo. We are blessed with the amazing talent and dedication you bring to our community each day.

Sometimes I wonder where all of the energy comes from. Yes, I know that you’re tired at the end of each day of work, after taking care of your business, family and home. You work all day and still find time and energy to shop, cook, transport and otherwise care for your family. Everything else you cram into a 24 hour period can be exhausting; but it’s a good tired, one born of knowing you’ve “taken care of business.” Please, take a moment to reflect on all that you do and acknowledge how unique and valuable you are.

In that vein, I want to thank everyone who has made our September magazine possible. This is our largest print ever. Thank you to our wonderful advertisers who make it all happen! Thanks to our dedicated WLSK team, who went above and beyond getting this magazine on the streets. Each and every one of you is so talented. And to the dynamic women whose profiles are sprinkled throughout the magazine: thank you so much!

Next month our focus is Home Sweet Home. You can expect lots of home décor and remodeling ideas. Until then, have a great September!

Darlene

Safety Tips courtesy MetroCreative

• Be wary of junk e-mail. Junk e-mail is less prevalent than it once was, but that doesn’t mean it’s now harmless. In fact, hyperlinks within junk e-mails are one of the more common ways hackers gain access to private information. Such links will likely take consumers to sites that look very similar to their bank’s website, and it’s there where consumers find themselves in deep trouble, entering personal information that they’re essentially handing over to criminals. Banks do not use e-mail to contact their customers about account balances or other sensitive information. Even if the e-mail appears legitimate (and it likely will), do

not click on the link within it. Instead, go directly to the institution’s website and login from there.

• Protect mobile devices. Mobile devices are the same as computers and they need the same protection. More and more people bank through their mobile devices, but those people might be surprised to know that mobile banking apps are not always very secure. When downloading apps for your phone, always research their security before downloading and always update the mobile device security software as frequently as possible.

• Change passwords. It’s getting increasingly difficult to remember passwords. The more people go online, the more likely they are to be asked to create a username and password. Each is required for e-mail accounts, online banking, accessing bills online, and just about anything else that involves sensitive information. While it can be difficult to keep track of all those usernames and passwords, it helps to change them frequently and to never use the same password for multiple accounts. It’s especially important to have a unique password for online banking. In addition, make answers to additional security questions something only you would know. For example, if asked for your high school’s mascot, say “meatloaf” or “hot dog” instead of the school’s actual mascot. Such answers are more likely to be known by you and you alone.

• Monitor accounts online daily. This makes it easier for customers to detect fraud and report it to their financial institution immediately.

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Starting a Business…

Advice from the Trenches Over 8 ½ years ago Heidi approached me to be her business partner in a venture that would become our boutique advertising agency. What me, self-employed? That thought never occurred to me. You see I was pregnant at the time (first time mother – you know how neurotic we can be!)

The furthest thing from my mind was owning a business with all the headaches, challenges and oh yes, did I mention that our salaries would fluctuate as often as gas prices?

Get business counseling to give yourself a clear view of what putting together a business is all about.

Great things about owning your own business…

- Strolling in late into the office …and no one glares at us.

- Jeans on Friday. Heck, jeans on Monday! (When there are no client appointments.)

- Creative control – It’s not the same thing day in and day out. Owning a business is like raising kids. You do everything you can and pray that you don’t screw things up. And the rewards come – when a client has a successful event, with our help, or awards are presented on a project we had a hand in creating.

- Determine what you want from your business. We are both mothers, so we wanted to have a business that works within our family dynamics.

But the more I thought about it, it seemed like the thing to do. The worst that could happen was that I wouldn’t like what I was doing or worse yet, the business wouldn’t thrive. And quite honestly, that could happen in any job – whether you own it or work for somebody else.

Not so great things…

- Working ‘til 8, 9…10 at night – and that’s a normal day.

- Client meeting at 3pm, drive kids to soccer practice at 4, networking at 5…sleep, when?

- Going from having one boss to having MANY bosses. Every client is our boss.

- Printers & laptops that stop working and the Internet decides to take a break just when you need to get that big presentation out. We’re the book keeper, sales people, creative team and yes…the IT department.

Many people have asked us for advice on starting a business. So we decided to take a look back from the beginning and offer our insight into some of the ups and downs of owning a business.

But if you have to ask us if we would do it all over again. Our answer is always the same. You betcha!

Secrets for starting a business: - Find something you are passionate about.

- Make a business plan and research the market you are getting into.

- Decide what kind of partner(s) you need to make the business thrive.

(Someone that complements your strengths/weaknesses).

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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Business Etiquette courtesy MetroCreative

A business dinner can lay the foundation for a lasting and fruitful partnership between company and client. while also giving them the impression their hosts are disorganized.

Plan in Advance Once the invitation is extended, make a reservation. When choosing a restaurant, look for one with an established reputation, and preferably one you have patronized in the past. Avoid restaurants with loud music or ones that are considered trendy, as such locales are often louder and less conducive to conversation.

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Another thing to consider when making the reservation are the seating arrangements. If the restaurant is known for its views, reserve a table with a great view and make sure the clients get the best seats at the table.

Clients should not be looking at the wall or sitting in a busy location, such as outside the kitchen or near the bar or restroom.

Tips for

client to breakfast or lunch, the invitation can be extended with less than a week’s notice, but no less than a few days in advance.

Not all restaurants will allow it, but when making the reservation ask if it’s possible topay the bill prior to the dinner. Ideally, the bill should not come to the table. However, if the restaurant won’t allow the bill to be paid in advance, grab it once it’s left on the table and then quickly look it over before paying. Never argue over the bill when hosting a client for dinner.

Make It Work

Confirm the Date

When you make a date, keep it. Canceling or postponing a dinner makes clients feel like they aren’t a priority

The day before the dinner, call the client and confirm the date. If the client cannot make it, don’t get flustered.

Doing Business Over Dinner Invite Early When hosting a business dinner, it’s best to give prospective or existing clients at least one week’s notice.

Anything less than a week will seem too last-minute and might give clients the impression, whether true or false, that a host and his company are disorganized and sloppy. When taking a

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Simply extend another invitation to a date that’s yet to be determined and cancel the existing reservation.

Arrive First Hosts should arrive first and never leave a client waiting. Upon arrival, give the maitre d’ your credit card.

Don’t be afraid to tell the maitre d’ you are there for an important business dinner and consider tipping in advance. It might just lead to more attentive service throughout the night.

Get Down to Business Let the client talk about business whenever he or she chooses, but if business doesn’t come up wait until after the main course has been completed to bring it up.

Go Easy on the Booze In the television series “Mad Men” the best business deals are those consummated over a couple of bottles of scotch. Though that might have been the norm in the 1960s, such an approach is largely outdated. A sipping drink, such as a glass of wine, is most appropriate, and limit yourself to one or two glasses. If the waiter is liberal with the refills and the client is taking full advantage, don’t be afraid to excuse yourself from the table and discreetly ask the server to stop refilling glasses or offering another bottle.

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Eating Local: Kalamazoo Farmers Market: The Kalamazoo Farmers Market participates in MSU’s “Project Fresh,” a program that provides participants with coupons to purchase fresh fruits and vegetables that are locally grown. They educate participants on how to increase fruit and vegetable consumption. In addition to Project Fresh, the Market also participates in the WIC and EBT programs.

The Kalamazoo Farmers Market carries a variety of locally grown and raised fresh farm produce such as eggs, maple syrup and honey, among others, plants and flowers, baked goods, fresh meats and handmade arts and crafts. To lend eco-friendly aid to the shopping process, the Market offers reusable market bags ($3.00 each) which are made from 100% recycled materials, helping to reduce personal use of plastics.

The outdoor Kalamazoo Farmers Market will close for the season on November 19. Currently, the Market is open for business on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday from 7:00am to 2:00pm. The Indoor Flea & Farmer’s Market opens in October, and is open on Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 7:00am to 1:00pm. For more information about the Market, “like” the Kalamazoo Farmers’ Market on Facebook, call (269) 337-8899, or visit the Kalamazoo City website at www.kalamazoocity.org/portal/government.php?page_id=203

Mattawan Farmers Market: Jenny Penning is the owner and manager of Dragonfly Gardens Greenhouse and Gift Shop in Mattawan, and is also the founder of the new Farmers Market in Mattawan, Michigan.

“I decided that a Farmers Market in Mattawan would be a great opportunity for local farmers to sell their produce,” Jenny said. “In addition, it is a great resource for the community members to stop in on their way home from work and pick up some great, healthy, locally raised veggies and baked goods for the weekend.”

After just a few months of operation, the Mattawan Farmers Market has five regular vendors including Hope Fitzgerald of Farm on the Fen, Elley Hinkel, owner of Hinkel Gardens, Jennifer Parr of the Lovely Parr Garden, Carrie Graham, owner of Fabulously Good Catering, and Jenny herself. The ladies are always looking for more vendors, and hope that they can continue to grow their business in order to offer the greatest selection of goods and produce for their customers.

“We have some amazing female entrepreneurs at the Market,” Jenny says. “While farming has traditionally been a male-dominated field, it is great to see some women working hard to plant, weed, harvest, and care for their livestock…We have some amazingly dedicated and hard-working women in our presence at the market!”

The Mattawan Farmers Market is located at 52650 North Main Street. For more information about the Mattawan Farmers Market, contact Jenny Penning at (269)668-2600 or “friend” Dragonfly Gardens on Facebook for weekly updates. More info available at: www.mattawan.org/dragonfly.

Emily Magyar is a recent graduate of Albion College. She has a Bachelor's degree in English with Creative Writing and a minor in Journalism.

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Could you use a touch of glitzy glam at the office?

Here are a some ways to add swankiness and sparkle to your workday.

5. Add some serious bling to your laptop or desktop computer with this sparkling combo set by Crystal Case. Keyboard, headphones, & wireless mouse $114.99

1. Crunching numbers just got more exciting with this Casio Swarovski studded calculator. $275 2. Traditional meets trendy with this black leather watch by Anne Klein. $65.

6. This sparkle draped cowl neck by Spanner makes a seamless transition from the office to glamorous after hours events.

3. Hold it all together with a Swarovski studded stapler. $149.95

7. A faux leather embossed patent croco briefcase by Ivanka Trump seals the deal. $150

4. “Work It� with these perfect spectator pumps by Anne Klein. $49.99

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Fire & the Loft Michelle Johnson & Denise Miller

Photo by K. Redmond Photography

Need a night out for some art and culture? Fire Historical and Cultural Arts Collaboration is a nonprofit organization that hopes to encourage artistic expression in Kalamazoo and in youth and their families everywhere. From the Fire website, “We understand that education and participation in the arts and culture contributes to the healthy development of young people, their families and communities.”

Michelle Johnson and Denise Miller are the two very successful business-women behind this project, each with strong backgrounds in education and art that contribute to the growth of Fire and its promotion of arts and human expression.

Michelle, a graduate of Michigan State University, studied social injustice and has participated in many movements during her youth including Environmental Activism, Women’s Space, Indigenous Land Rights, and The Push to Diversify College Campuses. She received her Masters degree from the University of Michigan and recently has spent much time documenting the Underground Railroad in Michigan. She co-founded Fire, which she promotes as an outlet for expression by anyone that is often emotionally oppressed because of their sexuality, class, race, gender or age.

Denise works as a Kalamazoo Valley Community College instructor. She received her BFA from Bowling Green State University in Creative Writing and her Masters

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from Central Michigan University. She currently serves as the co-founder and Public Arts Director at Fire. She is a published poet that received the Emerging Artists Grant from the Arts Council of Greater Kalamazoo and was able to serve as the artistic director for a multi-media presentation about slavery in Michigan. Her works have been published in a variety of sources including the African American Review, 2009, and a curriculum series on the Underground Railroad for the First Congregational Church of Detroit, among many others.

Fire runs on a three-tiered partnership focus that promotes mutual exposure, mutual attendance at events and shared programming. The vision of the organization is to promote and nurture individuals into “authentic expression and sustainability.” Their strategic focus has four parts, to raise visibility, strengthen partnerships, raise funds to promote their programs, and to raise program participation. 2011 partners include the Arcus Center for Social Justice and Leadership through Kalamazoo College, Communities in Schools, Education for the Arts, Interplay, Black arts and Cultural Center, Youth Opportunities Unlimited, The Kalamazoo Arts Council, and many more.

For more information about the Fire Historical and Cultural Arts Collaborative, for a complete list of sponsors or a list of upcoming events, please check out their website at www.thisisfire.com.

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Should You Go Back to School Now?

5 Questions to Ponder

courtesy MetroCreative

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ou could be thinking about going back to school for a variety of reasons.

You may have personal goals or your motivation could be purely financial. Our changing economy and technology has recently led many individuals back to the classroom. Many colleges and universities report that re-entry or adult students are the new majority on campus. Adults ages 25 to 69 are increasingly enrolling in courses.

Going back to school is a serious undertaking. Not only is it an investment of time, but it is also an investment of money. If you’re thinking about going back to school, consider these questions:

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Is now the right time? Those thinking about quitting work and going back to school because they think it might provide better job prospects or yield higher salaries could be mistaken. Many employers are cutting continuing-education grants and scaling back on hires with advanced degrees.

Advanced degrees generally mean having to pay an employee a higher salary, something many companies are not in a position to do right now. Therefore, an advanced degree might prove a hindrance in today’s job market and not become the financial windfall some students expect. If this is the case, delaying an advanced degree for a few years may be a more financially sound idea.

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What are your goals? Individuals need to examine their long- and short-term goals regarding education. Goals should include whether time is available to complete the degree. Some degrees can take months or years to finish, depending on how many credits a person already has. Is the goal to receive a completely different degree and begin a new career? If so, adults should put it down on paper so they have a definite goal in sight.

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Are the finances available? Attending school is no small undertaking.

Whether a public, private or online school, tuition can cost several thousand dollars per year. Tests taken to be accepted to school can cost money, and books will be needed for coursework. If money is tight right now, continuing school may not be the best option, especially if high-interest loans are the only viable means to continuing education. However, if the finances are there and school won’t detract from other bills, then school might be the right choice.

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What is the right school? Those who have a full-time job can look into a school that offers evening or weekend classes. Many schools now offer online courses that allow individuals to take classes remotely.

There is a growing interest in schools that specifically specialize in online degrees. Such schools enable students to take classes on their own time and complete assignments in a manner that’s less time-specific. Continuing students who may not have a spouse or children can move around to the school of choice. Once again, finances figure to play a major role when deciding on a school.

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Is a college degree really necessary? For many, gaining new skills doesn’t mean working toward a degree. It can involve vocational training, continuing education courses, on-the-job training or workshops.

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Calm, Clear and Wise at Work Janice Lynne Lundy

Drive thy business or it will drive thee. ~Benjamin Franklin Whether you work inside the home or out in the wider world, consider this: Is your “business” driving you or are you driving it?

I imagine many of us would hesitate to admit our place of business – our work environments and the people who inhabit them – drives us. But it’s true. It’s far too easy to be drawn into work pressures, stressors and co-workers’ moods. Sucked into workplace drama, we lose any sense of equanimity with which we may have started the day.

Whether your workspace is a battered desk in your children’s playroom or a cherry-trimmed beauty with a riverfront view, the stressors are the same. No matter where we find ourselves, it’s up to each of us to create moments of calm throughout our day so we can function effectively.

Office Oasis Instead of arriving at your desk or office each day dreading what will greet you, create mini-spaces that help you focus or shift your attention from stressed to serene.

Dedicate a corner of your desk, a section of bulletin board, or a space on a bookshelf and create a “portrait of peace.” Place objects or pictures there that calm and center you. People you love, places you’ve visited, even sacred objects that have special meaning for you or bring comfort. At various intervals throughout the day, close your door, turn off the phone, close the laptop, and sink into a few moments of peace by focusing on your “sacred space.”

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People think in pictures so by focusing our attention on images that create feelings of love, awe or appreciation, we nurture ourselves with a few visually serene moments.

Consider them “mini-vacations” – forays away from the pressures of work to places of ease inside of you.

Use this time to do some conscious breathing too. Simply bring your attention to your breath. Focus on “belly breathing” and inhale to the count of 6 or 8. Exhale to the count of 8 or 10. Feel the relief. Do this for as long as you need to “drop in” to a calmer version of yourself.

When workplace tensions arise or a disgruntled co-worker enters your space to kvetch, bring your attention back to your “portraits of peace” and practice your breathing. No one will even know what you’re doing; how you are creating a pipeline to inner calm, even in the midst of chaos.

Cultivate Clarity It’s been said thousands of times and hundreds of books written on it: a cluttered desk, office or home creates inner turmoil. I cannot write (even a column like this) if there is disarray around me. It’s as if my mind picks up the exterior mess and dumps it back inside, creating an inner landfill.

Before you begin your workday, clear and organize your desk as best you can. Even placed in piles, it’s better than loose-leaf papers strewn all over. Organize the desktop on your computer. A monitor screen cluttered with documents can set the mind awhirl. By taking a few moments each day to stay organized, you set the stage for clearer thinking. The calmer you are the clearer your mind.

As working women with multiple roles and responsibilities, it’s up to us to be as calm as possible and to access it as often as we can throughout the day. Our homes and businesses need us to be grounded with clear thinking.

Success depends on our ability to be present, not scattered; effective, not exhausted.

Know what simple activities plant you back in your calm center and do them. Step away if you need to. Take a music break. Go outside and breathe in Mother Nature.

Walk on your lunch hour. Your inner peace quotient is up to you. It will rise and fall with every choice you make.

I once asked Jungian analyst and author Clarissa Pinkola Estes in an interview what wisdom was. Her answer: “Wisdom is what works.” I was taken aback by her simplicity, but I knew what she said was true. Wisdom – especially women’s wisdom – is sourced in the practical.

It is what we know works, especially what we can and should do to keep things running smoothly. And to take care of ourselves in the process.

Today, take the first steps toward bringing a greater sense of calm into your workday. I guarantee you will feel your clarity return. And out of that clear-mindedness, your wisdom will rise and make itself known to you. Life will begin to look and feel different, even behind a desk or in the boardroom.

Join Jan Lundy’s monthly teleclass series, “Spiritual Invitations.”

Learn more at her website, www.awakenedliving.com.

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Osteoporosis and Low Bone Density

By Dr. Robert Bowes

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illions of American women have either osteoporosis or low bone density (also called osteopenia) that puts them at risk for fractures. Osteoporosis is a condition where the bone loses strength and weakens, putting a woman at risk for a fracture during a minor fall or during simple everyday activities. There are no symptoms until a fracture occurs and women are more likely to have osteoporosis than men. Women who are small and thin, inactive, have a family history of osteoporosis or smoke are at higher risk. Some medications or medical conditions such as thyroid disease also may put a woman at risk for fractures.

Young women hit their peak bone mass in their early 20s and because we all lose bone mass for the rest of our lives, a strong peak is critical to healthy bones later in life.

Approximately half of women over age 50 will experience an osteoporosis-related fracture over the rest of their lifetime and the National Osteoporosis Foundation estimates that the number of fractures due to osteoporosis is expected to rise to more than 3 million by 2025.

Hip fractures are particularly worrisome; of the women who fracture their hip, approximately 50% never fully recover. Fortunately there are a lot of things that women can do to prevent low bone mass or osteoporosis.

Dr. Bowes was drawn to specialize in OBGYN because he enjoys taking care of a patient’s obstetric and gynecologic needs over the course of her life, from childbearing years through menopause and beyond. He appreciates the opportunity to develop long-term relationships with his patients. When Dr. Bowes is not working, he enjoys spending time with his wife and 3 children, reading, woodworking, piano playing and gardening.

(more than 2 drinks per day) and talk with their healthcare provider about the appropriate time to start bone density testing.

Osteoporosis is usually diagnosed by a bone density test (DEXA). This is a painless test similar to an X-ray that evaluates bone strength at the spine and hip. It involves tiny exposure to radiation, about the same exposure as flying in an airplane from New York to Los Angeles. DEXA results are usually reported with a T-score and scores under -2.5 mean that a woman has osteoporosis and should consider treatment to reduce the likelihood of fracture. Some women may not meet criteria for osteoporosis but have DEXA findings of low bone density (osteopenia) and may receive a report called FRAX to determine whether or not medication is appropriate for them.

When a woman has osteoporosis there are many treatments available to reduce her fracture risk. In addition to weight-bearing exercise, calcium and vitamin-D, some patients choose to take a medication called a bisphosphonate to reduce their fracture risk. There are many of these available, in oral, IV and injectable forms. Some women use estrogen to reduce fracture risk and there are several other medications on the market to reduce bone loss or even to stimulate bone cells to increase bone density.

Although osteoporosis and fractures are common, an increased awareness of osteoporosis has led to a decrease in fractures among postmenopausal women. Women of all ages can protect themselves by exercising, supplementing calcium and vitamin D and leading a healthy lifestyle.

Osteoporosis is usually diagnosed by a bone density test (DEXA).

This is a painless test similar to an X-ray that evaluates bone strength at the spine and hip.

It’s important that adolescent girls and young women attain their peak bone mass by promoting exercise, calcium and vitamin D intake. Young women hit their peak bone mass in their early 20s and because we all lose bone mass for the rest of our lives, a strong peak is critical to healthy bones later in life.

What can older women do? Supplement calcium and vitamin intake with regular weight-bearing exercise to their daily routine. Recommended intake is about 1200mg of calcium and 800-1000 IU vitamin D daily for women over 50. Unfortunately, taking mega-doses of calcium and vitamin D does not appear to give any additional benefit and calcium and vitamin D are not treatments for osteoporosis by themselves. Women should also eliminate smoking and excessive alcohol intake

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Chicken Muffuletta with Spicy Olive Relish Mayonnaise

Chef’s secrets to building

The Perfect

Sandwich

C

hef Bobby Flay knows a thing or two about creating flavorful sandwich recipes made with real, simple ingredients. Now he’s letting others in on his secrets as he teams up with Hellmann’s® and Best Foods® to help America build the perfect sandwich.

courtesy of Family Features

“Everyone has an opinion about how to make the perfect sandwich, from the must-have ingredients to the highly personal sandwich architecture,” said Flay.

“No matter the sandwich recipe, I always use Hellmann’s® mayonnaise to bring out the best, plus I have to cut the bread diagonally to make it just right. That’s my idea of a perfect sandwich.”

Here are some of Bobby’s savory sandwich creations:

Chicken Muffuletta with Spicy Olive Relish Mayonnaise

Combine red peppers, jalapeño, garlic, mayonnaise and vinegar in a food processor and process until smooth.

Scrape the mixture into a medium bowl and fold in the olive relish and parsley. Set aside.

Serves: 8 Prep Time: 10 minutes Cook Time: 10 minutes

Heat the grill to high or the grill pan over high heat.

Roasted red peppers (from a jar), drained 1/2 or 1 jalapeño chile, chopped (depending on how spicy you like) 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped 1/2 cup Hellmann’s or Best Foods Real Mayonnaise 2 tablespoons sherry vinegar 3/4 cup prepared olive relish 1/4 cup coarsely chopped fresh flat leaf parsley 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts 2 tablespoons olive oil 16 1/4-inch slices provolone cheese 1 large round loaf of bread, sliced in half crosswise aluminum foil 2 bricks or a cast iron pan and a few heavy cans

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Brush chicken breasts with oil on both sides and sprinkle with salt and pepper, if desired. Grill for 4 to 5 minutes per side until golden brown and just cooked through.

Remove from the grill, let rest 5 minutes then slice into 1/4-inch slices on the bias.

Spread some of mayonnaise mixture on the bottom half of the bread, add half of the cheese, half of the chicken and repeat with the remaining ingredients (mayonnaise mixture, cheese and chicken in that order).

Spread the cut-side of the top of the loaf with more mayonnaise mixture and place, mayonnaise-side down, on chicken. Wrap tightly in foil, place on baking sheet and place bricks or a heavy cast iron pan on top.

Refrigerate for at least 1 hour (to allow the flavors to meld) or overnight.

Bobby Flay

TIPS Here are some of Flay’s tips on how he adds his personal touch to sandwiches:

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Thick, crusty breads like ciabatta are great for sandwiches to help complement softer ingredients like tomatoes and cheese.

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Bring a crunch to your sandwich with vegetables like sliced cucumber or fennel. Not only do they add a fresh taste, they won’t wilt when they come in contact with condiments.

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Add bright colors to the sandwich with parsley leaves, finely diced red onions, or green, yellow and red peppers.

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Don’t be afraid to experiment with new flavors. Jazz up your sandwich with a little cranberry relish, chopped, toasted nuts, lemon-basil or even a little Thousand Island coleslaw – the sky’s the limit.

Whisk mustard with cranberry relish in small bowl; season with salt and pepper.

Arrange bread on flat surface, then evenly spread with mustard mixture. Evenly top 2 of the bread slices with 2 slices cheese, ham, turkey, remaining cheese and pickles. Top with remaining bread, mustard-side down.

Spread 1 tablespoon mayonnaise on top of each sandwich and cook in medium skillet over medium heat or in panini press, mayonnaise-side down.

Turkey Cuban

Turkey Cuban Serves: 2 Prep Time: 15 minutes Cook Time: 4 minutes 1/4 cup Hellmann’s or Best Foods Dijonnaise Creamy Dijon Mustard 2 tablespoons leftover cranberry relish Salt and freshly ground black pepper 4 slices good quality Italian bread 8 thin slices Swiss cheese 4 thin slices cooked ham 6 slices leftover cooked turkey 8 dill pickle slices 4 tablespoons Hellmann’s or Best Foods Real Mayonnaise

Arrange brick* on sandwiches in skillet and cook 2 minutes or until the bottoms are golden brown.

Remove brick, then evenly spread tops of sandwiches with remaining 2 tablespoons mayonnaise; turn over.

Arrange brick on sandwiches and cook an additional 2 minutes or until bottoms are golden brown and cheese is melted. Cut in half and serve warm. *Wrap brick in heavy-duty aluminum foil to use as a press.

1 2 2 8 8 1

tablespoon red wine vinegar teaspoons Dijon mustard cups coleslaw mix slices rye bread slices Swiss cheese pound sliced cooked turkey

Combine 1/4 cup mayonnaise, pickle, ketchup, vinegar and mustard with wire whisk in medium bowl. Season, if desired, with salt and pepper. Stir in coleslaw mix; set aside.

Top 4 bread slices with cheese, turkey, coleslaw mixture, then remaining bread slice. Evenly spread outside of sandwiches with remaining 1/4 cup mayonnaise.

Cook sandwiches, in batches, in 12-inch nonstick skillet over medium heat, turning once, 8 minutes or until golden brown.

Turkey Reuben with Thousand Island Coleslaw

Turkey Reuben with Thousand Island Coleslaw Serves: 4 Prep Time: 15 minutes Cook Time: 10 minutes 1/2 cup Hellmann’s or Best Foods Real Mayonnaise, divided 1/4 cup finely chopped dill pickle 2 tablespoons ketchup

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Back to School

When it comes to our children’s education, we want to provide our young scholars with the ideal learning environment. Here are a few tips and products that can help our kids on the path to success: At the PC: • The monitor shelf can be lowered to follow the natural tilted position of the head, which helps to reduce tension in the back of the neck.

• The swing-up keyboard shelf provides relaxation for the arms and sufficient distance from the screen. *Of or relating to muscular contraction that does not produce shortening of the muscle

All Posture in Style desks and chairs are 100-percent adjustable. The patented “Comfort” feet allow the desks to always be at the right height to ensure good posture. The tiltable desktops accommodate the natural slant of the head, resulting in relaxed neck muscles and less tendency to assume a “hunchback position.” The recessed computer monitor mounts provide the optimal viewing angle and distance to reduce eye strain. The swing-up keyboard trays reduce wrist strain and mitigating carpal tunnel syndrome. Even the chairs have been engineered with children’s health in mind, featuring adjustable depth and height as well as oscillating backrest for proper spinal alignment.

For more information, visit www.postureinstyle.com or call 1-877-609-5688.

Fun & Games Ergonomics Recognizing that one in five primary school students suffers from back pain and only one in three children demonstrates proper posture, the new furniture line from Posture in Style helps children during their formative years through proper ergonomics and isometrics*.

Well-lit rooms with good ventilation help stimulate healthy learning. For furniture, choose natural materials with rounded corners. Desks and seating should be adjustable for children as they grow.

A few additional tips: At the Desk…

• The lower leg should be vertical to the floor; the thigh horizontal.

• The lower arms should be resting on the desktop in a relaxed position.

• Desks and scholastic furniture should be height adjustable.

• The seat should tilt forward by approximately 2°.

• The seat depth should be positioned correctly – the thighs should not be in contact with the front edge of the seat.

• The backrest should be adapted to the back and support the lumbar region.

• A tilting desktop encourages an upright position that is better for the back.

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Made in the USA, Wikki Stix (www.wikkistix.com) is made of a unique food grade, non-toxic wax and acrylic yarn formula designed to stimulate a child’s imagination without parental concern over safety or clean-up. Wikki Stix stick to each other and to just about any surface, but they come off as easily as they go on and leave no mess behind. And they don’t contain lead, latex, peanut or nut oils.

The soft, pliable material and engaging play makes Wikki Stix ideal for toddlers, pre-schoolers, middle school kids and children with special needs. The company produces a wide selection of educational activity kits, including alphabet cards, number cards, counting cards and shape cards, create-a-card kits, seasonal and holiday activities, birthday party activities, story books and more.

For children with special needs, such as Autism or ADHD, Wikki Stix are a multi-sensory and tactile activity that can be used to engage and help them in a myriad of ways. Playing with Wikki Stix can be calming and may assist with focus and attention, cognitive development and strengthening fine motor skills. The activity may also encourage verbal and social interaction when children create with Wikki Stix alongside a parent, friend or classmate.

Classroom Allergies (ARA) - The new school year means new clothes, new classes, new teachers – and the same old misery for children who have allergies and asthma. It’s such a big problem that asthma-related emergency department visits increase by 46 percent at the start of the school year, and asthma and allergies account for more than 14 million school day absences.

To help avoid school-related asthma and allergy misery, follow the advice from ACAAI allergist members: • Steer clear of dust, mold and pollen – Because dust mites and other allergens multiply in the class carpet, suggest your child sit in a chair rather than on the floor during activities. And ask your child’s teachers to keep the windows closed in the fall and spring to keep out sneeze-prompting pollens.

• Get a flu shot – It’s tough for a child with asthma to avoid germs at school so be sure your child gets a seasonal flu shot.

• Prepare for exercise-triggered asthma – Everyday school activities can trigger exercise-induced bronchoconstriction (EIB), commonly referred to as exercise induced asthma. About 80 to 90 percent of those with asthma have EIB and 10 percent of people without asthma have it. If your child has difficulty breathing during or after exercise, see an allergist. Be sure to give teachers a heads up and make sure your child has medication available at school.

• Pass up the class pet – Children with allergies should be reminded not to touch their furry class mascot. Ask teachers to consider a class pet such as fish or a hermit crab, which can offer plenty of learning opportunities without the allergy-triggering dander.

• Be on food safety patrol – If your child has food allergies, it’s important to explain which foods might trigger a reaction and how to ask a teacher or adult about ingredients before eating something questionable. Alert teachers, scouting and other club leaders and suggest an allergen-free snack policy. Share a plan with teachers, coaches and the school nurse for dealing with an allergic emergency, and make sure your child carries medications such as injectable epinephrine.

For more information about allergies and asthma in children, as well as to find a nearby allergist, visit www.AllergyAndAsthmaRelief.org.

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Divorce: How It Affects Your Financial Security In addition to being a source of emotional distress, divorce can be financially devastating to most women. If it seems that divorce is inevitable, you need to focus on putting your financial security in place. Anyone who has already gone through divorce knows that changing your marital status changes your financial status as well.

If you are young and have not been married long, you may not have children, so divorce is easier than for women that have had longer marriages and have children at home. Unfortunately, many older women have been married most of their adult lives, and they have the hardest time adjusting to their new financial circumstances. The median income for unmarried women over age 65 is just under $20,000 annually.

Many women who have been out of the workforce for years and do not have the skills or education will have a harder time finding work that pays enough to support themselves.

The best way to be prepared for the negotiating process ahead of you is to surround yourself with a group of professionals that will coordinate together to make the best outcome possible for you. You should work with an attorney, an accountant, and a financial planner that will all assess your situation from the legal, tax, and financial perspective. Emotional guidance from a professional specializing in divorce counseling may be beneficial to all parties involved.

Collaborative Divorce Practitioner groups include attorneys, financial specialists, counselors, and mediators.

Every woman needs to know about the financial consequences of divorce. Here is a check list to help you consider some issues. If you are considering divorce, examine this list to help guide you through the process and to make sure that you have adequately considered your financial situation.

1.

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Know what you and your spouse own and make an inventory of your assets, property, and all retirement plans. This should be done at least annually, anyway, but it is extremely important that you have access to all current statements and account information, including information on your home and other properties. Property settlements are not taxable, so you might want more of those assets and less alimony, which is taxable to the recipient.

September 2011

2.

3.

4.

Know your credit history. Know what debts are in your name, his name, and joint names. Generally, you are responsible for your debts, and he is responsible for his. Joint debts are the responsibility of both parties to the full amount owed.

Even if he is ordered to pay those debts by the court, creditors are not bound by divorce decrees, so they will go after whomever they can to get the money.

Review your prenuptial agreement, if you had one. Prenuptials cannot override the rules of ERISA; you would have to sign a separate waiver to his specific retirement plan, and he to yours. For non-ERISA plans, such as IRAs, the pre-nup is valid. They also protect individual savings in the event of divorce.

Consult an attorney to determine your rights regarding child support or alimony. Remember, alimony is taxable to you, but child support is not. Since alimony is only temporary, you may consider investing it in retirement funds, or more education or job-training skills, if you have other sources of income to live on.

5.

Consult an accountant to determine the affect divorce will have on your tax status. Check with the IRS to make sure all back taxes have been filed and paid.

6.

Life insurance on your spouse will replace alimony and/or child support should your exspouse die. You should be the owner and the beneficiary of the policy. If payments are not made, the insurance company will notify you first. Some divorce decrees require the husband to make payments directly to his ex-wife so she is protected.

7.

8.

Research health insurance options. Check with his HR dept, or read his Employee Benefits Manual. COBRA is available in the event of divorce, but only for 36 months after your divorce.

The cost of the premium is your responsibility.

Consult a health insurance agent to get quotes that you can share with your financial planner and attorney.

Make a realistic budget and meet with a financial advisor to determine your new needs. This will be helpful to your attorney when negotiating al-

imony and child support needs. Your expenses will change based on your new living conditions.

Will you be staying in the same home, buying another one, or renting? How will you split child expenses? What will you have to give up?

9.

Apply for your own credit, if you don’t already have cards in your own name. It may be harder after you are divorced and have a smaller household income. Make sure all joint credit cards are canceled.

10. If you will be receiving retirement assets, or other settlements, meet with a financial planner to determine your plan of action, including additional insurance needs for yourself. You may be entitled to a portion of your husband’s retirement plan through a Qualified Domestic Relations Order. You can roll it over to your own IRA tax deferred. If you take a distribution directly from the retirement plan, you will owe taxes, but will not be subject to the 10% early withdrawal penalty if you are under 59 ½.

11. Check with Social Security to determine what benefits you will be entitled to. If you were married at least 10 years and are not currently remarried, you are entitled to benefits at age 62, as long as your ex is eligible for Social Security benefits. If your ex-husband dies and you still have minor children under age 16 or disabled before age 22, you may be entitled to a benefit.

Your children under age 18 may be entitled to their own benefit.

Divorce is hard enough to deal with, but the financial affect continues long after the settlement is final. Surround yourself with good friends, family, and a team of professionals that will be focused on doing what is in the best interest of you and your family.

For a brochure about Collaborative Divorce, a friendlier, more cooperative divorce process, call our office at 269-321-5047. You can also go to www.collabdivkzoo.com for a list of local collaborative practitioners.

Sandy K. Derby, CFP®, ChFC has been in the financial services industry since 1989. She was selected as one of America’s Top Financial Planners by Consumers Research Council of America in 2009. 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.

hen directors search for an actress to star in a leading role, they’re seeking someone who has the qualifications, talent and yes, the image that fits that part. To ensure they’ve got a success in the making, directors carefully scan each actor’s credentials then conduct numerous auditions until they identify the star that will ensure a hit.

W

By Kim Monaghan

Maybe you’re not an actress, but if you’re in the job search, the scenario should ring familiar. Instead of an audition, you’ll go on an interview. Instead of a monologue you may be asked to give a skills demonstration. And in lieu of a director, your fate lies in the hands of the employer. But before any “performance” can take place, you’ll need to land that “audition.” A sizzling resume is your ticket onto the stage.

To ensure yours stands apart from the competition, take a look at the production:

Lights:

Camera:

Action :

Make sure your resume shows you in your best light. Your header should contain all the pertinent contact information, yet look stylish enough to be a personalized letterhead. The content should be well balanced with relevant information throughout. Spacing should be adequate, margins around one inch and the layout not skewed too much to the left (or right). Each section – professional history, education, qualifications summary, etc. – should be clearly delineated with headers, lines or appropriate breaks that guide the reader through the document. Use professional fonts and graphics, but limit the amount of diverse style tools you employ. Don’t leave too much white space, and avoid filling the resume with irrelevant filler.

When the lens is focused on your resume, employ strategies to educate the reader on all the benefits you will bring to the position. Include your strengths, skills and capabilities, but be sure to tread carefully.

First, take a moment to fully understand what strengths define you and what skills you possess. Don’t simply create a generic “filler” list that not only takes up valuable white space, but could be claimed by anyone else. Rather, take a strengths survey or interview friends and peers and find out what inherent characteristics make you stand apart from your competition. As for skills, clarify all the powerful tools and talents you render to get the job done.

Show you’re solutions-oriented. Back up your skills, experience and capabilities with qualifying and quantifiable results. If your resume looks too much like a job description then by all means rework it to highlight what impressive things you’ve done and are capable of doing again. Tell the employer how you saved, or made, other organizations money; how you increased profit margins; how you designed and implemented creative solutions; and how you met and exceeded strategic goals.

Include concrete examples that not only demonstrate growth, but illustrate note-worthy achievements and win-win solutions.

Finally, avoid simply listing skills and strengths on your resume and challenge yourself to incorporate them as part of your action statements, qualifications summary and “wins.” By developing illustrative expressions that clarify how you used your strengths or skills to accomplish projects and goals demonstrates that you understand, and are, what the employer is looking for.

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Janet Zlomek Pfizer Inc.

Photo by Chris McGuire Photography

Janet Zlomek is a Registered Pharmacist in the state of Michigan.

She has a degree from Ferris State University where she had the opportunity to work with professors that had backgrounds in pharmaceuticals. She now serves as the Director of Drug Product Operations for the Kalamazoo site of Pfizer, Inc., where she leads a large team of almost 600 colleagues responsible for the manufacturing and packaging of all pharmaceutical products at the site.

“Even though I have worked for Pfizer for 27 years, I am still learning new things every day, keeping the job fresh and challenging,” Janet said. “Probably the best part of what I do is knowing that the products we produce right here in West Michigan help many people and animals live healthier lives.”

Janet has held her current position as Director for three years, and has served the company in other departments like Quality, Information Technology, Process Automation and Manufactur-

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ing. Her team produces injectables, liquids, creams, ointments, biologicals, medical devices and alcohol-containing products to treat humans and animals. Products are distributed throughout the United States and in sixty-five other countries throughout the world. Janet’s goals for her work are to successfully implement facility upgrades and process improvements to maintain Pfizer’s competitiveness.

Janet is married with three children, a daughter, age 14, and two sons, age 11 and 9, and a wire-haired pointing griffon. Her family enjoys traveling and hopes to see all fifty states together. She is involved with many community organizations such as the Portage Central High School Science Olympiad Team, Cub/Boy Scouts, Pfizer Science Outreach Team, Girls on the Run, and Great Leaks Burn Camp, just to name a few. She also enjoys reading, cooking, playing with her family and beach combing in her spare time.

Start-Up Smarts

B

ecoming a business owner is a goal for many women. Starting a business is seldom easy, but the process can be streamlined when a person knows the steps to take.

The Center for Women’s Business Research indicates that on average, women own over 10 million businesses in the United States and employ around 20 million workers. Female-owned businesses account for over $2 trillion in sales. Female entrepreneurs are a big part of the country’s financial landscape.

There are certain critical steps to take to develop and launch a business. Here are some suggestions from the Small Business Administration.

• Find a mentor. There are organizations like SCORE and Women’s Business Centers that provide free resources online and locally for the prospective small business owner. Individuals also can connect with current business owners in the neighborhood and pick their brains about the best way to begin.

• Write a business plan. This may seem like an intimidating part of starting a business, but getting thoughts written out in black and white can be a good organizational step. However, there’s no specific formula for a business plan. Listing the type of business, marketing ideas, competition and financial data is a good place to start. Also, having a business plan in place may make it easier to secure a loan.

courtesy MetroCreative

• Secure funding. Businesses require start-up capital. Some small business owners have their own savings they’ll be devoting to the business, while others solicit investors. The majority of business developers apply for a business loan.

This is where a business plan can be an asset.

Also, grants may be an option. According to the SBA, some business grants are available through state and local programs, nonprofit organizations and other groups.

• Secure legal representation. There are certain business laws and employee laws that an individual will need to know to avoid fines and other legal recourse. Securing legal representation ahead of time can help prospective business owners navigate the legal system.

• Budget and plan for marketing and advertising. It’s important to get the word out about your new business. While this can start with family and friends, eventually the efforts will have to go beyond that. Explore your options and be sure you are reaching your target audience.

Keep in mind that it can be a few years before small business owners start to realize a profit on their efforts. So don’t give up too easily and soon another successful woman – you – will be part of the economy.

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Professional Organizations & Resources Inforum 269-585-5585 inforum.news@inforummichigan.org A Professional Women’s Alliance Kalamazoo Community Foundation Phone: 269-381-4416 www.kalfound.org The Kalamazoo Community Foundation is dedicated to enhancing the Spirit of Community and quality of life in the greater Kalamazoo area through its stewardship of permanently endowed funds. The Community Foundation has provided essential funding to programs that encourage individuals and families to succeed, engage residents and youths in community activities, enrich education and learning, and foster economic and community growth.

Kalamazoo Jaycees PO Box 50184 Kalamazoo, MI 49005 269-343-2355 www.kalamazoojaycees.org The Kalamazoo Jaycees are a collection of young men and women between the ages of 21 and 40, focused on professional development, personal growth and community service.

Kalamazoo Network 6250 Proctor Kalamazoo, MI 49048 Phone: (269) 343-7865 www.kalamazoonetwork.org The objectives of this organization are to facilitate the exchange of experiences and ideas to advance the self growth and success of women in their roles within the community.

Kalamazoo Regional Chamber of Commerce 346 W. Michigan Ave. Kalamazoo, MI 49007 Phone: (269) 381-4000 www.kazoochamber.com The Chamber serves as the collective voice for business on issues affecting business and the Kalamazoo community. About 85 percent of all Chamber members are small businesses with 25 or fewer employees.

Many Chamber programs are specifically designed with the needs and problems of a small business in mind.

Michigan Small Business & Technology Development Center Haworth College of Business 3110 Schneider Hall Western Michigan University Kalamazoo, MI 49008-5416 Phone: (269) 387-6004 www.misbtdc.org/region11

TM

Provides services and support to the Michigan small business community in the areas of counsel, training, research and advocacy. Services cover: Allegan, Barry, Berrien, Calhoun, Cass, Kalamazoo, St. Joseph and Van Buren Counties.

Minority Business Alliance of Southwest Michigan 435 Whitcomb Kalamazoo, MI 49008 Phone: (269) 388-3853 www.minoritybusinessalliance.ws Their mission is to advance minority and women-owned businesses to successfully compete in all market sectors through networking, resource development and education with cultural sensitivity, identifying hidden potential.

Professional Development & Training Center of SW Michigan 225 Parsons Street Kalamazoo, MI 49007 Phone: 269-492-1460 www.pdtc.biz

Our mission is to assist in raising individuals’ earning potential through training in professional office skills. Upon completion of this program, students will have the confidence and ability to compete for entry-level positions in the employment market.

Women's Education Coalition www.kalfound.org WEC is a cooperative venture of the Kalamazoo Network, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority and the YWCA of Kalamazoo. Since it was established in 1995, the fund has granted approximately $563,000 for educational purposes and approximately $59,600 in emergency grants. For more information or to apply go to: www.kalfound.org.

YWCA Kalamazoo 353 E. Michigan Ave. Kalamazoo, MI 49007 269-345-5595 info@ywcakalamazoo.org

Today’s professional woman is presented with numerous opportunities to join organizations and commit some of her precious time, for personal and/or professional reasons. We asked the women of Kalamazoo Network to share their reasons for choosing to make this kind of commitment..

PO Box 50374 • Kalamazoo MI 49005 • voicemail: 269-343-7865 • www.kalamazoonetwork.org

As a typically time-challenged career woman, how do you decide which organization(s) are worthy of your time, effort and resources?

Trying to juggle work, family, home, church, etc.. means that I need to consider carefully where I spend my time. I look for organizations that work with my schedule because life is busy. Organizations that aren't going to break the bank because as a small business owner, I need to keep track of spending. Organizations that make me feel welcomed, because then I know I'll make good connections and that will lead to good relationship building.

And of course it's not enough to have a good reputation.. they have to live up to their reputation, have respected members, care for the community, and be true to their word.

Katie Redmond / K Redmond Photography Joining an organization is a wonderful way to meet new and interesting women. I belong to three women’s organizations in Kalamazoo, and feel that I have met so many women who

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have made a difference in my life as well as the city itself. Women are eager to help each other improve their business, as well as themselves. I sat next to a new friend at a Network meeting one evening and we shared an interest in golf. She told me about the Kalamazoo /Battle Creek Executive Women’s Golf Association; I promptly joined and have been a member for five years.

Diane Grundy / China Treasures

As an owner of a business, I become very focused on what is happening in our industry and business, but I also know that to get a true fix on what is happening in the world I need to hear what is happening with other businesses, and to learn about how other business owners are growing their business in this up and down economic climate. I would be remiss not to say, I have developed some wonderful friends through this experience.

Gloria Tiller / Kazoo Books

There are several good reasons to be a “joiner”. Socializing is one of the most important things we can do for our health and our growth. Ask anyone who is home-bound by circumstance, and they will tell you how much they miss being around people. Joining gives us purpose, enjoyment, enlightenment, and comfort. I have made all my best friends from groups that I have joined over the years. I have become more aware of what my community has to offer and how I can be a contributor.

Sandy Derby / Derby Financial and Assoc.

Joan VanSickler is serving her 5th year on the Kalamazoo Network Board and is the 2011-2012 President. Communicate

by Design with Joan VanSickler, Mixed Media Marketing and Design

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Office

See the Light

Under Control

A home office area needs to be set up for success, even if it’s a mobile system you use out of your kitchen. Good lighting is critical to mental processing. Poor lighting leads to low-grade headaches and eye strain; it also makes for a more depressing area to work in.

By Mary Dykstra, MBA CPO

and information immediately. If you put it off, it piles up. Set up two bins: “Shred” and “Recycle/Trash.”

Then, immediately sort and purge as much as you can.

Quickly purge what you don’t need: • junk mail • draft documents • outdated materials • invitations to events you know you won’t attend • ATM receipts after they have been reconciled and acknowledged by the bank • expired warranties and manuals for products you no longer own • investment and banking brochures/prospectuses if you will not read them • catalogs (keep only newest or just the link to the online catalog) • dated magazine and news articles • Consult with an attorney or tax professional regarding paperwork you must keep in your particular circumstance for financial, legal or business retention purposes.

Next, set up appropriate files and reduce your piles. It takes time to initially set up an effective system or realign an outdated one, but it can save you days as well as money over the course of the year.

If you feel overwhelmed and limited on time, consider hiring a certified professional organizer to help you quickly get your office and space working for you.

Otherwise, be patient with yourself and tackle one pile a day or go through your files and purge or archive a few files each day.

Did you know that an unorganized office can cost you up to six weeks a year looking for misplaced, lost or unfiled documentation? If you run a home-based business and are unorganized, it can cost you lost sales and revenue and a potential visit from the IRS. There are three critical areas of a home office which require processing and regular maintenance: 1) paper, 2) electronic information and 3) miscellaneous “stuff.”

When I work with new clients, many times they show me a home office area they rarely use. It takes creating

a setup that will work for your specific needs mentally, emotionally, physically and logistically; otherwise, you may find your office migrating all over the house.

Reduce and manage your paper and electronic files.

We keep a lot more paper than we need to out of fear that we “might need it some day.” The 80/20 rule (Pareto’s Principle) applies here: 80% of your profits come from 20% of your business. We use only 20% of the papers we keep, yet we struggle to let things go.

Make it a habit to eliminate unneeded paper documents

Make Time for Routine Maintenance When you’re ready to maintain the system, the hard work is done. Maintenance should work in a steamlined fashion and take minimal effort. Be sure to block time on an ongoing basis to keep your systems flowing well. If you don’t like to file daily, have a basket labeled “To File.” Also, if you need to keep a receipt that has been printed on thermal paper, make a hard copy of it as it will fade in less than a year and within weeks if it’s in the sun (for business deductions IRS can go back a minimum of 3 years and some warranties are good for 1 to 4 years). You may also wish to look into scanning and electronic filing with products such as Neat Receipts.

Nifty Files You can potentially eliminate up to half of all the items you’ve been saving (including electronic information). First, consolidate duplicate files. When you file paper and electronic documents, work from broad categories to specific subsets. For example, under your “Automobile File,” create subsets for each vehicle you own. It will simplify your life and system when you have fewer files to manage and you know where to look. Place the most current documents in the front of the file and create sub files only when your category becomes bulky. When the items in your file are no longer needed, either purge or archive them under separate files.

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Mary Dykstra MBA, CPO is a Certified Professional Organizer, speaker and time management coach. Her website is www.withinreach.biz.

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i n t e r i o r

i d e a s

There’s a Party Going on . . .

In the

Basement

By Ashley Cole

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raditionally called a recreational room, this space is now more known as the game room. It often resides on a homes’ lower level and encompasses a number of uses for the homeowner. Not only is it an area to play games (both video and table games), but it can include a theatre setting, a bar, a craft area or any number of personalized spaces for fun. It’s the ideal location for family and friends to gather.

Here are some ideas for your own rec room:

Games. Inspiration for the rec room’s theme stems from an interest or hobby. Whether its weekly poker games with friends or the acquiring of a pool table, it’s a good place to start your planning. If card or board games are the focus, a simple round or square table with chairs should be placed in an area with good lighting. If air hockey, billiards, foosball or other table games are the interest, they should be the first objects laid out on the floor plan to be sure there is ample space to move around. Ideally, ceiling lights over game areas offer a clean look and the least amount of interference. However, if adding ceiling lighting to a particular location isn’t in the plans, there are a number of floor lamp designs with long “goose necks” that will work as well.

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Movies. Even if there isn’t space or budget for a full-blown theatre room, a wall dedicated to a television and electronic equipment with ample space in front of it to cozy up and watch a movie or play video games certainly does the trick. It can be as simple as setting your TV on a media cabinet with storage below or as sophisticated as working with a local audio-visual specialist to help set up the ultimate viewing and listening scenario with a wall mount TV and surround sound speakers. Wireless options can make for easy installation. Plan for a comfortable sectional for maximum seating and an ottoman or coffee table to rest drinks and snacks.

Munchies. Speaking of drinks and snacks, what entertainment area would be complete without a mini kitchen? It’s where everyone ends up, no matter what’s going on. At the minimum it’s nice to have a small under-counter refrigerator somewhere close by to keep favorite beverages chilled and a cabinet to store glassware and snacks. If it’s possible to add a counter space with a sink, even better. And, if space and budget allow for a full-blown bar or kitchenette, it adds a truly functional element to the rec room. Consider a secondary smaller television in this area. Perhaps a sporting event can be kept on while others are watching something else in the media area.

Hobbies. Craft rooms have been making a comeback for quite some time. As homesteading continues as a popular trend, we add knitting, sewing, homemade cards, scrapbooking and other crafts to our interests. The rec room is an ideal area in the home to create a specialized nook for these hobbies.

Especially if there are children, this is a dedicated place to allow creativity to flow. A large table with seating, good lighting and smart storage are the three elements that bring this space together.

Storage. When planning a rec room, one crucial part not to ignore is storage. Between craft supplies, toys, games, books and movies, organization is key to keeping this area an enjoyable and clutter-free space. Any opportunity for built-ins or specialized stand alone cabinets should be considered.

Flexibility. Because the rec room has many different uses, you’ll want to keep it a flexible space, allowing for change depending on the activity. Most of the time an open floor plan works well, however, there can be times when the kids want to play video games in the media area and the adults want to entertain at the same time. For a lower level remodel for clients of mine, we separated the open space into a craft area, a bar and pool table space and a media corner with the use of large sliding “barn” doors that could remain open for family time and entertaining or closed when overlapping activities are occurring at the same time.

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 website at www.ashleycoledesign.com.

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Job Search

Simple

By Kim Monaghan

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should be employed each time you set up your weekly action list. Whatever specific plans you develop, your weekly job search goals should also be both proactive and reactive. In other words, don’t let the Internet, newspapers or bulletin board be your only sources of job lead development.

hen it comes to job searching, there’s always the intense process of information gathering, advice weighing and the ever-growing list of action items that can at times be overwhelming. When you feel like steering your “Colored Parachute” off to an entirely new planet, it’s time to simplify things and focus on what’s important in your search.

Creating Opportunities

Start by taking a deep breath and stepping back from the process for a few days. When your mind is clear and you’re ready to begin again, ask yourself the following questions: “Where am I wasting time?” and “What am I trying to avoid?” After discovering “time vampires” and “motivational drains” you can work on eliminating them. This is the beginning of the streamlining process that will pare your job search down to the most simple and effective steps: Planning, Creating and Doing.

This is the essence of being proactive. Ensure the majority of your week is spent mining for opportunities, building a mutually beneficial network, attending industry-related events and conducting plenty of informational interviews. This is how the coveted jobs are unearthed and positions are created around a person’s talents and strengths. When you spend all of your time trying to fit into a predetermined role, you may be looking for a job and not a career.

Planning

True, creating opportunities requires challenging yourself and stepping out of your comfort zone, but it also yields great results. So put on your best search suit, pocket your business cards, keep your career portfolio within reach and get out of the house and into the world of work. Attend any function that interests you and provides a platform for nurturing mutually beneficial relationships. Let your strengths and personality shine all the while creating opportunities for further dialogue.

Set up your week with a plan that includes goals that are both doable and aggressive. In developing a list of action items to work through weekly, the mere process of putting them down on paper makes them even more attainable. Even though you still want to develop a healthy list of “to dos,” make sure you’re not over or under estimating expectations of what you can accomplish. Your goals should be S.M.A.R.T.: Simple, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic and Timely, and this barometer

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Doing This third and final word undoubtedly needs little explanation, yet it may require a “carrot.” In essence, developing a goal plan and creatively acting on it are two different things. While in the midst of a job search, the feeling of being overwhelmed, exhausted, anxious and even depressed can sometimes set in and wreak havoc on a carefully articulated agenda. When this happens, acknowledge it, take time to work through it and ask for help and support when needed. But when you’re ready to get back on track, muster up whatever enticement, or carrot, required to get the job search plan back into action.

A carrot can come in the form of a reward for a week’s worth of effort, perhaps a latte or guilt-free afternoon in the park, or even lunch with a friend who can hold you accountable to your goals. The idea of having someone to answer to can be a very powerful tool, for they are not only motivating but often bring insightful feedback.

With the mantra of Planning, Creating and Doing infused into your week, you’ll readily get at the heart of what’s important, reduce down time and simplify your job search into a productive, careerseeking adventure.

Kim Monaghan is a career coach, consultant and owner of Career Connections (www.cc-career.com).

She is member of the Professional Coaching Association of Michigan.

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Photo courtesy of Getty Images

Reboot Your Morning Routine

A

re you a morning robot, going through the same tired motions every day? Or are your mornings rushed and chaotic, making you more of a morning monster? Morning routines don’t have to be boring or frustrating – and rebooting your routine can have a positive effect on your entire day.

Getting Started Analyze your current routine. What’s really working and what isn’t? Is your commute a source of tension? Is getting the kids out the door on time stressful and unpleasant for everyone? Look at what you need to get done and how much time it realistically takes.

Next, set a goal for the morning routine. Would you like more calm and less chaos? More energy? Would you like to get everyone out the door with everything they need?

Be specific. Target one element at a time that needs changing, and then take small steps to make it happen.

Here are some tips for rebooting your routine and getting off to a great start.

Physical Eat Breakfast. The key to jump-start your metabolism and kick off your day right is to eat breakfast.

Food That Fuels. Whole grains, fiber and protein provide you with long-lasting energy. Try whole grain

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English muffins with a little peanut butter; Greek yogurt with fruit, nuts and granola; a fruit smoothie made with non-fat milk and a little protein powder, alongside a 100calorie pack of almonds and walnuts.

Get Moving. The American Council on Exercise says that as little as 10 minutes of exercise gets oxygen-rich blood pumping throughout your system, boosting your energy and your mood. Stretching helps wake up tired muscles. Try some simple yoga poses or tai chi moves.

You can also wake yourself up with a few full-body stretches by gently pointing your toes and reaching your arms above your head.

Get Some Rays. Sunshine stops the production of melatonin (which helps you sleep) and signals your brain that it’s time to wake up, so raise the shades to help you get your day going with more energy.

Mental Me Time. Set the alarm for 15 minutes earlier than normal. Use that time to do something that energizes you – it could be reading, listening to music, meditating or a short walk. It shouldn’t be for work or chores – do something that feeds the inner you.

Re-route Your Commute. Freshen things up by taking a new route to work or school. Doing things the same way all the time puts the brain into automatic pilot. Changing things up a bit forces you to pay attention and stimulates the brain.

courtesy of Family Features and Emerald Breakfast

Emotional Calm the Early Morning Chaos. Whether it’s because of missing shoes, unpacked backpacks or long commutes, mornings can be stressful.

To help ease that stress, get everything ready the night before. Lay out all clothing. Sign school papers, pack up backpacks and have them right by the door. Load up your laptop bag with whatever you’ll need the next day. Put everything in the same spot near your exit door.

Does your commute make you anxious? Ease the tension with music or audio books.

On-the-Go Eating Tips Break bad breakfast habits and get your day off to a good start, even when you’re in a hurry.

Plan for it. Create a weekly breakfast plan and grocery list that includes what you need for a healthy on-the-go breakfast. By planning ahead you can skip the drive-thru and the forgettable breakfast bars.

Pack your breakfast. Granola, fruit, dry cereal or yogurt are easy-to-pack options.

Breakfast at your desk. Have good snack options stashed at your desk. Whole-grain crackers or fruit are perfect with some peanut butter. If your company has a refrigerator, store yogurt or string cheese for the week.

Do you have fashion questions and dilemmas of your own? It’s easy to ask our Image Consultant Kelly Duggan, just send your questions to Kelly at info@womenslifestylekazoo.com Be sure to indicate Image Questions in the subject line.

Q. I’ve found that many women’s garments don’t have pockets. When attending business ‘networking’ events do you have suggestions for carrying business cards and personal items? Amanda K. A. Suggestions for keeping networking essentials close at hand include: 1. Wearing a suit or jacketed ensemble often works.

More than likely the jacket will have some type of pocket available for use…be careful – don’t over stuff – avoid creating nasty bulges.

2. Carry a small ‘wristlet’ purse in a professional and coordinating matte finish color– large enough for your business cards, a small pen, and car keys.

3. Under the cover of a jacket use a belt clip style cell phone holder as a holster for your needed networking tools.

Use these simple tips to keep your focus on the business conversation at hand verses digging through a purse to find your business card. Keep your hands free for initiating conversation, and creating that next positive impression and solid business lead.

Q. When is the best time to clean out or sort through my wardrobe?

A. Anytime!

It’s vital for a fully functional wardrobe to be sorted and analyzed frequently.

Your investment of time and monetary output for consultation will pay you back tenfold and provide confidence that your wardrobe is fully functional wardrobe and up to date. Often you can create new outfits from existing and forgotten garments. In our region, we have two major season changes with subtle changes in between. For myself personally, and with KDIC clients, I recommend a complete closetwardrobe audit in the early spring and again in the early fall. Each time take note of any wardrobe updates needed for the onset of a new season.

Early fall in Michigan brings diverse weather, so many warmer weather garments are still “hanging out” in your closet. It’s a good time to analyze how these garments have worked for you over the past season.

Here are a few tips to get you started with creating a functional wardrobe and closet space……

• Go through your closet and remove the items you know you won’t/haven’t worn in the past season.

Go through each closet item by item.

• Answer the following questions…..honestly: - Are you an impulsive shopper?

- Are there mistakes hanging in your closet?

Why are they mistakes?

- Do you feel guilty spending money on clothes? If so, why?

- Is your image consistent day in and day out?

- Is quantity and change more important to you than consistency and quality?

- What are your favorites and why?

• Get rid of anything not worn in over a year.

• Check all “keepers” for repair and cleaning; put aside.

With the change of a season and the latest trends abounding, it can be difficult to get excited about the wardrobe you’ve been wearing and are tired of, but it’s the best place to begin when learning what your true needs are.

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

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Here are some simple tips for lunches and munches kids will love: ● If your child leaves most of his or her sandwich behind, use cookie cutters to create a favorite shape such as an airplane, car, star or heart. The fun shape might encourage your child to finish the entire sandwich. ● A colorful selection of food and different texture adds appeal – carrot sticks and green grapes for color, whole wheat pretzels and crackers for crunch. ● Put a surprise in your child’s lunch: a sticker, a note of encouragement, or a small toy. ● Another fun idea is to start a family food album where you and your kids keep track of the foods that provide nourishment and the ones that offer little or no nutritional value. Have your kids cut photos of food and nutrition labels making note of those foods that are considered healthy and those that are not. Your kids will learn about healthy eating and enjoy fun arts and crafts projects, too.

Courtesy of Boar’s Head Brand

Turkey and Apple Roll-ups Servings: 1 1-2 tablespoons low-fat cream cheese 1 96% fat-free tortilla (8 inch) 2 slices Boar’s Head Maple Glazed Honey Coat Turkey Breast 1/4 cup fresh baby spinach 1/2 medium-sized apple, cut into thin strips

Healthy & Fun

Lunch Ideas courtesy of Boar’s Head Brand & Fresh Meadow Bakery

Spread cream cheese on one side of tortilla.

Place turkey slices evenly over tortilla, then add spinach leaves and sliced apple. Roll tortilla tightly, tucking ingredients as you roll. Slice wrap in half diagonally and serve.

Gluten-Free Roasted Vegetable Sandwich Servings: 1 2 1 3 3 3 2 1

slices gluten-free sandwich bread tablespoon butter slices roasted eggplant slices roasted zucchini slices fresh tomato tablespoons prepared pesto ounce fresh mozzarella, sliced

Toast bread until golden brown. Spread with butter.

Layer pesto, eggplant, zucchini, tomato slices and mozzarella and top with other slice of bread.

Top with half of the pudding mixture and then half of the whipped topping mixture. Repeat layers once.

Refrigerate at least 2 hours before serving.

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Courtesy of Fresh Meadow Bakery

September 2011

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Dessert Bars

Sweet Treats for the Office courtesy of Family Features

Quick & Easy Peanut Butter Bars Preparation Time: 20 minutes Total Time: 1 hour Servings: 12 1 3 1 3 3

cup reduced fat creamy peanut butter tablespoons butter or margarine, softened cup powdered sugar tablespoons fat free milk cups Kellogg’s Rice Krispies cereal or 3 cups Kellogg’s Cocoa Krispies cereal 1/4 cup semi-sweet chocolate morsels, melted In large mixing bowl beat peanut butter and butter on medium speed until combined. Add powdered sugar and milk. Beat until fluffy. Stir in cereal, mixing until thoroughly combined. Press mixture evenly into 8 x 8 x 2-inch pan coated with cooking spray. Refrigerate until firm.

Drizzle chocolate over cereal mixture. Refrigerate about 30 minutes or until chocolate is set and cereal mixture is firm. Cut into bars. Store in airtight container in refrigerator.

Creamy Orange-Chocolate Truffle Bars These elegant dessert bars are the perfect for a get-together. Each layer requires some chilling, so give yourself plenty of time or make the night before.

Prep Time: 25 minutes Cook Time: 20 minutes Servings: 20 BASE 1 1/2 1/4 1-1/4 1/2

cup butter, softened cup powdered sugar teaspoon salt cups flour cup chopped pecans

TRUFFLE 1 can (14 ounces) Eagle Brand Sweetened Condensed Milk 1 bag (12 ounces) dark chocolate baking chips (2 cups) 2/3 cup Smucker’s Sweet Orange Marmalade

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TOPPING 1 container (8 ounces) mascarpone cheese 1-1/3 cups granulated sugar 2/3 cup whipping cream 1 tablespoon grated orange peel (from 1 large orange) Heat oven to 350º F. Spray 13x9-inch pan with no-stick cooking spray.

In medium bowl, beat butter, powdered sugar and salt with electric mixer on medium speed until fluffy. On low speed, gradually beat in flour until dough forms. Stir in pecans. Spread mixture in pan. Bake 15 to 20 minutes or until golden brown. Cool completely, about 30 minutes.

In medium microwavable bowl, microwave milk and chocolate chips uncovered on High 1 minute; stir. Microwave up to 1 minute longer, stirring until smooth. Stir in marmalade; spread over base. Refrigerate 1 hour or until set.

In medium bowl, beat cheese, granulated sugar and cream on medium speed until smooth. Beat on high speed until mixture is thickened. Stir in orange peel. Spread over truffle layer. Refrigerate 1 hour or until chilled. For bars, cut into 5 rows by 4 rows, wiping knife after each cut. Store covered in refrigerator.

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WL

By Meaghan O’Connor

Healthy Eating At Work

Are You Getting Enough Sleep?

We live in a society obsessed with speed and convenience. It’s no different when it comes to our everyday eating habits. We gravitate toward food options that are quick and easily accessible, and often rule out healthier options as too expensive or time consuming to prepare.

Finding healthy options in the workplace can be even more challenging. Here are some easy tips to make meal time at work both pleasurable and nutritious:

Living a healthy lifestyle means more than eating right or making time for the gym. In fact, getting enough sleep is one of the most important steps in drastically improving your overall health. Despite the proven benefits however, women everywhere continue to give their hectic, working life priority over getting sufficient sleep. Are you prone to the “there are never enough hours in a day” syndrome? Find out if you’re getting enough rest and what you can do to make the most of your time asleep:

Limit your trips to the vending machine by keeping healthy and filling snacks close by. Replace donuts, muffins and cookies with fresh fruit or veggies, pretzels, yogurt, or protein-packed almonds.

Although you may not see negative effects right away, insufficient sleep will catch up with you eventually.

Pay attention to when your body craves rest and don’t be afraid give in to its demand for relaxation.

Bring your own lunch. When you have to hit the road or spend an entire day at the office, keep fast food to a minimum and focus on filling up with lean meats, salads or homemade sandwiches.

Take time to enjoy and appreciate your meals away from technology or other distractions. You are more likely to pay attention to what and how much you’re eating away from your work area.

Instead of plowing through lunch between conference calls, use meal time as a way to escape your work day routine.

Office Exercises Are you using your hectic life at the office as an excuse to avoid daily exercise? Put negative thoughts about sweating at the gym aside and try these easy exercises you can incorporate into your work day to stay active and fit while still on the job: Take a quick 15 minute walking break at a moderate pace, and you could burn up to 60 calories! Walk or take the stairs whenever you have the opportunity. Park your car in the furthest parking space from your office building or walk to your favorite outdoor lunch spot. Your legs will thank you for the aerobic activity, and you’ll also get the chance to catch up with co-workers.

Try some light stretching or yoga poses. This will help your body relax, soothe muscle tension and help you focus on the task at hand.

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Although the amount of sleep an individual needs varies, experts recommend that adults aim for seven to nine hours per night.

Our bodies do not adapt to getting an insufficient amount of sleep. Instead, we accumulate a “sleep debt” as our bodies try to make up for the amount of sleep lost.

What can you do to improve your sleeping habits? Set a sleep schedule, and try to go to bed and wake up around the same time each day. Limit eating or drinking too close to bedtime and turn off electronic devices that stimulate brain activity and delay quality sleep.

Source: www.forbes.com

Wall push-ups are a great way to build muscle quickly and discreetly. Stand facing a wall with your feet shoulder-width apart and place your palms flat against the wall at shoulder height. Bend at the elbows, moving your body toward the wall and hold for counts of ten.

Chair squats can help you tone up your trouble spots by targeting leg muscles. Stand with your back to a stationary chair with your feet shoulder-width apart and your arms straight out in front of you, parallel to the floor. Lower your body to a seated position above the chair and hold for counts of three.

Remember that any type of body movement is good for your health. Challenge yourself to move a little every day.

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T

Back to School

Making

oday there’s a much greater emphasis on STEM education - Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics. But as of now, however, many students just aren’t ready.

According to the National Science Foundation, eighty percent of jobs in the next decade will require some form of math and science, yet only 29 percent of American fourth grade students, a third of eighth grade students, and barely 18 percent of 12th grade students perform at or above the proficient level in science.

Math & Science

Fun for Kids

by Family Features/Wiley Publishing

But it doesn’t have to be that way. Nobel Prize winner for medicine Dr. Michael Brown wrote that “We must demystify math and science so that all students feel the joy that follows understanding.” This is where parents and caregivers come in.

How You Can Help A 2010 survey by the National Science Teachers Association found that the vast majority (94 percent) of science teachers wish their students’ parents had more opportunities to engage in science with their children.

However, more than half (53 percent) of parents of school-aged children admit that they could use more help to support their child’s interest in science.

Here are some things that parents and caregivers can do to help their students not only make it through science and math classes, but actually enjoy them and see how they can impact their lives.

Make It Fun There are plenty of ways to engage in math and science online. Check out some of these websites: • The Exploratorium is a museum of science, art and human perception located in San Francisco, California. There’s plenty of exploring to be done at their website, www.exploratorium.edu.

• There’s a wide variety of subjects and activities at National Geographic’s site, www.nationalgeographic.com and the Nova site at www.pbs.org.

• You can find fun math games at www.Gamequarium.org and www.FunBrain.com.

TV shows “Mythbusters” and “Life” on the Discovery Channel or “Through the Wormhole,” “Meteorite Men,” and “SciFi Science” on the Science channel all offer engaging and fun explorations of science.

Photo courtesy of Getty Images

Hands-on experiences are some of the best ways for kids of all ages to learn.

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• Look for local science museums, camps and programs that let kids play, build, experiment, get messy and have fun.

• Students of all ages can help with citizen science projects, such as the ones at NASA. At www.science.nasa.gov, they can sign up to help study images from Mars, track meteorites hitting the moon, and help sort through the massive amounts of data gathered about Earth from space.

• Check out library books and websites for at-home science and math projects. Using those skills in fun ways helps the lessons stick and keeps students interested.

Give Them Tools Sometimes students need some extra help clarifying difficult concepts and reinforcing what they learned in the classroom. The For Dummies series of books can be helpful resources to do just that. They offer practical exercises and lessons for mastering the essential concepts of these sometimes tricky subjects.

• Is your student having trouble with exponential and logarithmic functions? Or getting tripped up by graphing trig functions? Then “Pre-Calculus Workbook For Dummies” (Wiley) can help clear things up. The authors offer ten missteps to avoid in pre-calculus, such as Going Out of Order (of Operations), Oversimplifying Roots, Forgetting to Flip the Fraction, and Canceling Too Quickly.

the ozone in the stratosphere. On one hand, it shields us from harmful UV radiation. But on the other, it can be an irritant and destroy rubber products.

• The floating property of ice is one of the reasons that life is able to exist on earth. If ice were denser than water in the winter, the water at the top of lakes would freeze and sink. Then more water would freeze and sink, and so on. Pretty soon, the lake would be frozen solid, destroying most of the life - such as plants and fish - in the lake. Instead, ice floats and forms an insulating layer over the water, which allows life to exist, even in the winter.

• Chemistry is sometimes called the central science because in order to have a good understanding of the other sciences, you need to have a good understanding of chemistry. “Chemistry For Dummies, 2nd Edition” aims to help demystify the subject with concrete examples, illustrations and figures along with the text.

Whether in middle school, high school or college, it’s possible for your student to gain a greater understanding of subjects that may seem out of reach. It just takes a helping hand.

You can find additional resources for many math and science subjects at www.dummies.com.

Chemistry Fun Facts From “Chemistry For Dummies, 2nd Edition” (Wiley, June 2011) Here are some interesting ways to look at the world of chemistry: • A chemical substance can be both a good guy and a bad guy. The only difference is where and in what concentration it’s found. For example, a person can overdose on water if he drinks enough of it. The same goes with

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Cancer Survivor – Victoria Christian Victoria Christian had just moved to the area when she was diagnosed with breast cancer in September 2007. It wasn’t her first encounter with the disease. The Lawton resident had already lost her mother to breast cancer in 2002, and her older sister was diagnosed in with it a couple of years later.

At 45, Victoria wasn’t about to let cancer into her life again, but after a suspicious spot was found on an annual mammogram, a biopsy confirmed the unwanted news.

“It was so shocking,” Victoria recalled. “You’re just numb. The first thing you think is: ‘How can that be?’”

Now 49, Victoria credits mammography for saving her life and emphatically promotes early detection.

“I can’t believe there are women out there who won’t get their mammogram,” she said. “I was one of the more fortunate ones. My cancer was diagnosed early so it hadn’t spread to my lymph nodes.”

Victoria’s treatment included 33 rounds of radiation therapy in combination with chemotherapy. Though radiation therapy is painless, some people experience side effects. For Victoria, that included fatigue. The side effects of chemotherapy are much more obvious, and like many women, Victoria lost her hair.

“You’re going through such a hard time, you don’t even want to go outside after you lose your hair,” she said. “I worked from home which made it easier, but for women, your hair is such a part of who you are.”

The West Michigan Cancer Center (WMCC) referred Victoria to the Look Good … Feel Better program. Offered by the American Cancer Society, Look Good…Feel Better is a program where trained cosmetologists help cancer patients cope with the appearance-related side effects so common during cancer treatment.

Women are provided with high-quality cosmetics, including lotions and make-up, as well as lessons on nail care and proper wig application and styling.

“This was a wonderful class that I would recommend to anyone,” Victoria said. “In my Look Good…Feel Better class I learned how to make a head scarf out of a 100% cotton T-shirt, and I even learned how to draw on my eyebrows. It gave me more confidence to go out in public and feel good about myself.”

Victoria also benefited through the American Cancer Society’s Reach to Recovery program.

Reach to Recovery pairs newly diagnosed breast cancer patients with breast cancer survivors who have undergone a similar experience. Because they are also survivors, Reach to Recovery volunteers are able to relate on a very personal level and offer support and guidance to newly diagnosed patients.

2010.

“Being new to the area, I didn’t have many ABC Walk d Judy. MS an el friends nearby, so I called my pastor and met ha ic Walking M with him and his wife,” she said. “After sharing what I was going through, my pastor’s wife told me she was a breast cancer survivor of 15 years.

I never felt alone. My husband was so supportive and I had the Lord and my family and friends with me. It was so calming through my treatments. It’s really important to have someone to talk to who you’re comfortable with.”

On Saturday, October 15, Victoria will be joined by her husband, Michael, family, friends, and hundreds of other breast cancer survivors and their loved ones at the American Cancer Society’s Making Strides Against Breast Cancer event at Arcadia Creek Festival Site in downtown Kalamazoo. Making Strides is a non-competitive 5K walk to raise funds and awareness in support of the American Cancer Society’s breast cancer research programs and patient services.

“This will be my fourth year participating in the walk,” said Victoria, who also serves as captain of Team Zann, named in memory of her mother.

“Making Strides Against Breast Cancer is so important to help raise awareness about the disease and especially to remind women to get their mammograms.”

The first time she participated in the walk Victoria was invited by Pat Webb, an oncology nurse who has since become a good friend.

“I had just been diagnosed in September, so I just walked at the event,” Victoria said. “Since then I have started my own team and turned the event into a family reunion of sorts. I invite everyone over to the house and we have a sleepover the night before. We get up early in the morning and go to Making Strides and then spend the day going to garage sales and then head back to the house for a big dinner. My nieces are getting older, and by turning the day into a big family event, I have the opportunity to bring awareness to them about getting their mammograms. I don’t want them to forget that cancer has touched their family and they are at risk.”

at our ristina Christian My daughter Ch r.

Fundraise 2010 Bake Sale

Last year, Victoria’s team raised $1,000 and this year she is setting the bar higher.

“This happened to me for a reason,” Victoria said. “I don’t know why it happened, but I wouldn’t trade the experience for anything. I’ve made some wonderful friends because of cancer. The only thing I can say is that everything just clicked together, and if there’s something I can do to help someone else along the way I will. At Making Strides Against Breast Cancer, we’re all there for one reason and you can feel the kinship.”

For more information about Making Strides Against Breast Cancer or to learn how to start a team, call 800-227-2345 or go to cancer.org/stridesonline.

In addition to support from a Reach to Recovery volunteer, she connected with her pastor and his wife.

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Christina, Michael, Ju dy and me MS ABC Walk 2010.

September 2011

My sister & Co-captain Judy Kinsel, Christina and my wonderful husband Michael MSABC Walk 2010.

When Life Deals You Lemons, Shave Your Head Hair. We write about it, we sing about it. We spend $2.4 billion anually caring for it. It has a very curious history. Did you know that in days of old, hair length and quality signaled a woman's youth, health, and reproductive potential? I imagine this was discussed at length during Flintstone-esque grand poo-pah meetings, along with gnawing on saber-tooth tiger legs.

We’re all familiar with the legends of Lady Godiva and Rapunzel. However it might have been hair that first kept women off battlefields. Twelfth century religious leader Wulfstan worried that men with longer hair would fight like women, and be unable to protect England from foreign invasion. Yet who among them would have been willing to step into a fight between two women?

I’d wager nary a one.

But I digress. Let’s step back to the present. I’ve made no secret of my diagnosis of and treatment for breast cancer. Chemo was in my future, and unfortunately (or so I thought), was hair loss. Happily, I’m finding some startling benefits.

First of all, I will not be called a dumb blonde for at least another six months, and I can laugh along with my brunette friends at all the blonde jokes, knowing no one ever makes fun of a bald head. In fact, being bald makes you intriguing, in an alien sort of way. I fancy myself a cross between Sinead O’Connor and a Conehead.

My personal hygiene time has been whittled down to darn near nothing. Since body hair has also disappeared, I can shower as fast as my husband. And the ensuing time saving is monumental. Figuring that it took me at least 15 minutes to style my hair, four times a week, I’ve come up with an addition 52 hours this year to spend on other pursuits. Sudoku anyone?

And then there’s weather, the bane of all long-locked gals. Ha, it’s no issue for me. I laugh at wind, rain, and humidity, popping a clever hat on my head. And when back inside again, guess what? No hat head! Furthermore, seeing as how I’m a woman “of a certain age,” I fall victim to the occasional hot flash. A bald head allows you to stick it under the faucet for immediate relief. I never knew such freedom.

I do wear scarves in public so as not to frighten small children. And I have a cute wig, although wearing it during the warmer months felt like walking around with a cat on my head. To give myself confidence each morning, I stand in front of my mirror and tell myself it’s a wonder that such a huge brain fits into such a small cranium. And while I’ll happily welcome my hair back at the end of my treatment, I’ll know I always have the option of going bald again if I choose. In fact, it’s my new mantra: When life gives you lemons, shave your head! At least that’s my humbe 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.

September 2011

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CALENDAR

of Events

September 1 Click Downtown Throughout Central City. 10 am – 2 pm.

Partnering with WMU’s Freshman Fall Welcome Program, Downtown Kalamazoo welcomes 1,700 students to Central City for a photo scavenger hunt. 124 groups visit 10 locations for the challenge of capturing unique photos of downtown. Free. 269-344-0795. www.downtownkalamazoo.org

September 1 – 24 Is There Life After High School?

New Vic Theatre. 8:30 – 10:30 pm. A nostalgic remembrance of the joy, laughter and pain of going through high school. $25. 269-381-3328. newvictheatre.org September 1 - 30 Lifelong Learning Academy Registration Registration continues for the fall session of WMU’s Lifelong Learning Academy. Topics range from art and literature to raising backyard chickens and growing native plants. 269-387-4200. www.wmich.edu/offcampus/lifelong September 1 – 30 The Test: The Tuskegee Airmen Project Air Zoo. Mon. - Sat. 9 am – 5 pm; Sun. Noon – 5 pm. The Test: The Tuskegee Airmen Project tells the incredible story about the first black combat aviators who served in the U.S. military during World War II. Free. 269-382-6555. www.airzoo.org September 1 – 30 Borgess Bariatric Seminars Borgess Medical Center. 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.

September 6 Fall & Winter Maintenance Community Homeworks, 808 S Westnedge Ave. 6 pm. How to prepare your home for winter to prevent damage and to save energy and money.

269-998-3275. education@communityhomeworks.org September 6 & 20 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 269-388-6350 or http://www.premierveincenter.com/vein-screening September 7 Kalamazoo County Land Bank Authority Parchment Community Library, 401 S Riverview Dr. 6:30 pm. Kelley Clarke will

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September 2011

discuss Kalamazoo Home Ownership Program. Free. No registration. 269-343-7747 for info.

September 7 A Heads Up + Heart-to-Heart = Healthier Kids Borgess Bone & Joint Institute. 6:30 – 8 pm. Will provide comprehensive information on the importance of protecting the heads and hearts of young athletes.

To register, or learn more about our upcoming student athlete heart screening, call 269-226-8135 or 800-828-8135 to register.

September 8 Free Talk on Urinary Incontinence in Women Borgess Hospital – Lawrence Education Center, Room 122 6:30 pm Come ask the doctor your questions.

Refreshments will be served. RSVP to (269) 372-7600 www.drrogerbeyer.com September 9 Art Hop Various Locations throughout Downtown Kalamazoo. 5 – 9 pm. Art Hop is a free event that features new art exhibits in a fun, casual atmosphere. Numerous galleries and businesses in the downtown area host a variety of artwork. Free.

269-342-5059. www.kalamazooarts.com September 9 Fall Class Preview and Instruction Showcase Park Trades Center – Kalamazoo. 5 – 9 pm. Join us in the Reflections Gallery for an exhibit rich in color and talent featuring glass artwork created by our instructors and members. New Fall Catalog of Glass Art Classes. 269-552-9802. www.wmglass.org September 10 Volunteer Center’s Day of Service Various shifts from 9 am - 3 pm. 9/11 National Day of Service and Remembrance, with various project sites throughout Kalamazoo. More info and online registration, www.volunteerkalamazoo.org or 269-382-8350.

September 12 IAAP Kalamazoo Chapter Meeting Kalamazoo RESA. 5 pm networking, 5:30 pm dinner, 6 pm program of Estate Planning presented by Attorney Danielle Streed, 7 pm business meeting. Guests always welcome! $10 cost for dinner.

Register at michelle.stickley.cnuz @statefarm.com or 269-553-2086 by Sept. 6.

September 13 Kalamazoo Network Fetzer Center WMU. 5:15 pm Dinner & Program; Networking for business women. Cost $20. RSVP to www.kalamazoonetwork.org

September 13 Hand Tools Community Homeworks, 808 S Westnedge Ave. 6 pm. How to use different types of hand tools and how to choose the right one for the job. 269-998-3275. education@ communityhomeworks.org

September 13, 20, 27 Artist's Way Group Kazoo Books Parkview. 6:30-8:30 pm.

Discover or recover your creativity. Pre-registration required. $20.

269-552-9299 Ext.2 or creativepath4you@aol.com.

September 13 An Evening with Deanna House – Apples, Apples, Apples!

Parchment Community Library, 401 S Riverview Dr. 6 – 8 pm. Tickets available 8/23 - 9/8 @ the library. Limit 2 per person. No reservations.

September 13 – 27 Michigan Professional Womens Resource Beacon Club, 5830 Portage road. 9 am.

We network, and a resource to each other. Guests welcome! For more information call 269-910-3579.

September 14 Tomato Dinner Food Dance. 6 – 8 pm. We get so excited about tomato season at Food Dance that we’re celebrating by having a five-course tomato dinner. Seems a bit over the top?

Not when you consider the beauty, flavors and versatility of the thousands of varieties of tomatoes. $45. 269-3821888. fooddance.net/events-classes September 14 Miniature Breads with Polymer Clay Parchment Community Library, 401 S Riverview Dr. 6:30 pm. Holly Burke teaches how to make miniature breads. Registration closes 9/10.

September 15 Borgess Heart Failure Clinic Borgess Health & Fitness Center. 4:30 – 5:30 pm. A free discussion discussing Questions and Answers About Medication. Call 269-226-8135 to register or visit wellness.borgess.com September 16 Diva Night Art Bayou. 6 – 9 pm. Welcome back ladies!! Paint pottery without the kids!

Bring your favorite beverages. Space is limited, so please call and reserve your seat 269-375-2600. We will do door prizes. Adults only please. Cheaper than therapy, way more FUN! 269-375-2600. www.artbayoustudio.com

September 2011

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September 16 – 18 NSRA Street Rod Nationals NORTH plus Kalamazoo County Expo Center.

Friday & Saturday 8 am – 5 pm; Sunday 8:30 am – 2 pm. Annual event that brings Street Rods to Kalamazoo from across the Nation. The event is now open to 1980 and earlier manufactured vehicles. $14, $5 for children ages 6 – 12.

303-776-7841. www.nsra-usa.com September 18 Southwest Michigan Community Harvest Fest Tillers International in Scotts. 11:30 am – 6:30 pm. Keynote Speaker Patty Cantrell will talk about foodsheds, regional economies, and the cultivation of healthy communities through local food. $10 per vehicle. 269-492-1270. info@fairfoodmatters.org September 18 "Divine Feminine" Art Exhibit Parish Church of Christ the King, Texas Dr. & 8th St. Kalamazoo. Reception: 12 pm - 3 pm. Featuring the work of artists in Southwest Michigan to promote peace, justice, unity, collaboration, cooperation and respect for all.

269-388-2988. www.parishchurch.org September 18 Labyrinth Walk for Peace Parish Church of Christ the King, Texas Dr. & 8th St. Kalamazoo. 1 - 1:30 pm.

Walking the outdoor Santa Rosa Labyrinth. www.parishchurch.org or 269-388-2988.

September 20 Power Tools Community Homeworks, 808 S Westnedge Ave. 6 pm. How to safely operate the most common power tools.

269-998-3275. education@communityhomeworks.org September 20 The Kalamazoo MI After 5 Women’s Connection The Beacon Club, 5830 Portage Rd. 6:30 – 8 pm. Dedicated to connecting women through fellowship, fun and inspiring messages. Business women are welcome! $17. RSVP to Sharon at 269-323-8978. Info @ www.meetyathen.webs.com September 20 Free Talk on Urinary Incontinence in Women Women’s Health Care Specialists Bldg 7110 Stadium Drive, Kalamazoo Upper Level-in Oshtemo near 8th St. 6:30 pm Come ask the doctor your questions.

Refreshments will be served. RSVP to (269) 372-7600 www.drrogerbeyer.com September 21 Serving On a Nonprofit Board Workshop 5:30 – 8 pm. Learn the responsibilities of nonprofit board service. Develop your leadership skills and share them with a nonprofit in need. $50 ($5 discount for online registration). Register online www.volunteerkalamazoo.org or by calling 269-382-8350.

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September 21 The Turbulent Sixties Parchment Community Library, 401 S Riverview Dr. 6 – 8 pm. Sharon Caron with a lively overview of the cultural, political and economic landscape of the 60s. Parchment Yearbooks on display.

Registration required at 269-343-7747.

September 21 Free Talk on Urinary Leaking in Women Portage Public Library – Gourdneck Lake Room, 300 Library Lane Portage 6:30 pm. Come ask the doctor your questions.

Refreshments will be served. RSVP to (269) 372-7600 www.drrogerbeyer.com September 22 Pure Silver Jewelry Making Art Bayou. 12 – 9 pm. Who doesn’t love jewelry? You’ll be able to make necklaces, earrings, pendants, bookmarks, wine charms, mobile phone dangles, luggage tags, key chains and more out of pure silver. No experience necessary.

Cost of $50 includes all materials, tools and finishing instructions needed to complete your project. Pre-register and reserve your seat 269-375-2600. Feel free to browse www.lillyollo.com for more info.

September 22 New Eyes Film & Dialogue Series Exploring Compassion & Forgiveness in Community Transformations Spirituality Center. 6:30 – 8:30pm. This series invites you to see the world with new eyes viewing and discussing films that explore the path of individual and community forgiveness and compassion. $50 whole series. Info @ www.transformationscenter.org or info@transformationscenter.org or 269-381-6290 ext. 249 September 23 Integrative Breathwork Parish Church Office 6928 Texas Dr. Kalamazoo. 7 - 9 pm. A musical journey for insight, emotional healing, creativity & renewal. $30. Pre-registration is needed. www.adamczassociates.com or 269-388-2988.

September 23 – 24 Irish Festival Downtown Kalamazoo – Arcadia Creek Festival Place. Join us for: Live Celtic Music, Irish Step Dancers, Celtic Vendors & Activitiesand Good Irish Cuisine. Fri – 4:30 – 12 & Sat. 10:30-12.

Cost: $8 ppKids under 13–Free w/Adult.

More info @ kalamazooirish.org Septemberr 23 – 24 Irish Fest of Kalamazoo Acadia Creek Festival Place. Fri. 4:30 11:30 pm; Sat. 10:30 am - 11:30 pm.

Celebrating all things Irish including music with 12 bands, Irish dancers, merchandise, beverages, food and cultural area. Children activities on Saturday. Presented by the Irish American Club of Kalamazoo. $7 for adults, Children 13 and under with adult free. www.kalamazooirish.org

September 2011

September 24 Praying with the Beatitudes in the Words Jesus Spoke Transformations Spirituality Center. 9 am – 3 pm. Spend time listening to and reflecting on the meanings of these words at the heart of Jesus’ message; meanings which help guide our day-to-day experiences and challenges. $40 includes lunch. Info @ www.transformationscenter.org or info@transformations center.org or 269-381-6290 ext. 249 September 24 5th Annual KIA Benefit Appraisal Day Kalamazoo Institute of Arts. 10 am – 4 pm. Professional appraisers from DuMouchelle's auction house in Detroit donate their time to support this fundraiser by providing verbal appraisals for artworks, antiques, jewelry, and other treasures. $15 per item members/$18 per item non-members. Register by calling 269-349-7775. www.kiarts.org September 24 Integrative Breathwork Parish Church Office 6928 Texas Dr. Kalamazoo.10 am - 5 pm. A musical journey for insight, emotional healing, creativity & renewal. $80. Some partial scholarships. Pre-registration is needed. www.adamczassociates.com or 269-388-2988.

September 24 Super Science Saturday: Magnetism – It's Everywhere!

Air Zoo. 11 am; 1 & 3 pm. Kids will learn about magnetism, sunspots, and how planets and stars can have magnetic properties. They'll make their own magnet and play with "magic magnet fluid."

Free with general admission. 269-3826555. www.airzoo.org September 27 Home Safety & Security Community Homeworks, 808 S Westnedge Ave. 6 pm. How to prevent and prepare for safety related events in your home including fires, radon, carbon monoxide, intruders and natural disasters. 269-998-3275. education@communityhomeworks.org September 28 Centering Prayer Introduction Transformations Spirituality Center. 6:30 – 8:30pm. If your spiritual journey has led to a hunger for a deeper experience of prayerful silence in God’s presence, join us for an evening on the process and practice of Centering Prayer. $20. Info @ www.transformationscenter.org or info@transformationscenter.org or 269-381-6290 ext. 24 September 29 WMU College of Fine Arts Networking Event Gilmore Theatre Complex Atrium. 5 – 7 pm. This event is a chance to network with other women professionals and learn about the WMU College of Fine Arts. RSVP danielle@rsylawoffice.com Sept 30 – Oct 1 Autumn Festival & Kid’s Day Wedel’s Nursery, Florist and Garden Center. Fri – 10 am – 7 pm and Sat – 9 am –

4 pm. Petting Zoo, Stuff-recrow, Kids’ Scavenger Hunt, Straw Maze. Lots of fun for kids of all ages! More info go to Wedels.com or call 269-345-1195.

October 1 crescendoFest!!

Epic Center in downtown Kalamazoo.

2 – 5 pm. Sponsored by the Crescendo Academy of Music. A celebration of locally grown music and food. 2nd annual signature event to increase scholarship funds and create greater community awareness for Crescendo Academy of Music. $10 per person or $25 per family.

269-345-6664. www.crescendoacademy.com October 1 – 2 Old Tyme Harvest Festival Scotts Mill County Park. Sat. 9 am - 5 pm; Sun. 9 am - 3 pm. Annual event presented by the Scotts Olde Tyme Power & Equipment Association. Featured attractions include hayrides to the pumpkin patch, corn shocks for sale, pumpkin chunker and husker shredder. $5, children 12 and under are free.

269-729-4349. www.sotpea.org October 2 Bailey Park Battle Creek - Come Walk With Us in the ACS Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk. 1:00 pm Visit cancer.org/strides on line or call 1-800-227-2345 October 3 – 7 Downtown Worker Appreciation Week TBA. 10 – 10:30 am. Want Coffee? Only during Worker Appreciation Week do they twist the meaning of a coffee break at the “water cooler.” Each day during this special week, Downtown Kalamazoo Inc. will set up their water cooler breaks outdoors with fabulous coffee, pastries, and heartfelt thanks for working downtown. Free. 259-344-0795. www.downtownkalamazoo.org October 4 Senior Expo Kalamazoo County Expo Center & Fairground. 9 am – 3 pm. 15th annual presented by the Kalamazoo County Area Agency on aging. This expo features information and displays from many community resources. Free health screenings will be available. Free. 269-373-5147. jgboni@kalcounty.com

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

Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk Preview Interested in what’s going on in your local community? The Making Strides Against Breast Cancer (ACS) Walk is an event that happens every year in downtown Kalamazoo, Michigan, benefiting breast cancer victims and survivors and their families. The upcoming walk will be held on October 15, with festivities beginning at the Arcadia Creek Festival Site.

The ACS of Southwest Michigan kicked off their upcoming Making Strides events with a breakfast on August 3 at the Kalamazoo Country Club. With a motivational preview of the Dancing Queens of Miss Diane’s Dance Studio, the group that will perform at the October walk, a survivor speaker from Mastec, and a fundraising showcase highlighted some of the tools that the American Cancer Society utilizes to create an enjoyable experience at the Making Strides Against Breast Cancer walk. The breakfast was enjoyed by 150 guests.

The Walk will honor breast cancer survivors as special guests. All breast cancer survivors in the Kalamazoo area are invited, and there will be a tent designed to welcome survivors and make their experience special. Pre-event warm ups will be led by local cheerleading groups and dance teams, introducing high energy and spirit to walkers. This year will also feature “Spirit Squads,” groups that will be promoting high energy on the walk path by clapping and cheering walkers on as they are Making Strides Against Breast Cancer. Spectators and walkers are encouraged to wear pink to show support for those fighting cancer and those who are surviving today.

It is not too late to become involved with Making Strides. Stryker, Pfizer, Bronson Hospital, Borgess Hospital and media sponsor WKFR are among the list of sponsors for this year’s walk. With approximately 3.500 participants last year, there are high hopes for even more participation this October. Individuals or groups that would like to participate as Solo Striders or as teams, anyone interested in joining the planning committee or volunteer at the event, information can be obtained by contacting the local American Cancer Society.

For more information about this year’s Making Strides Against Breast Cancer walk on October 15, call Janelle Nagy at 269-349-8719, email StridesSouthwestMichigan@cancer.org or browse on www.cancer.org/stridesonline to search for local events.

September 2011

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Reader’s Lounge

By Alexandra Fix

Siesta Silver Jewelry Karla Piper and her husband Mark arrived home from their honeymoon in Mexico with wonderful memories, silver jewelry and a business idea.

A Vicksburg native, Karla began importing hand-crafted sterling silver jewelry from Taxco, Mexico in 2010. Keeping one eye on beauty and the other eye on affordable pricing, Siesta Silver Jewelry was born.

The stunning designs are created by approximately fifteen talented artisans including one who is currently featured on www.novica.com (a National Geographic website). In October 2010, www.siestasilverjewelry.com was launched. Siesta Silver’s latest creation is their more upscale “Siesta Moda” line.

Their top priority is giving back to the community which includes being involved in local schools and working with charities. One way they help is through the sales of their Signature Piece. The Signature Piece changes periodically and up to 20% of the retail price is donated to a specified charity. The current charity www.act-today.org helps military families with children on the Autism Spectrum. Siesta Silver Jewelry also sponsors a little league team in Vicksburg.

Karla Piper wants you to know that at Siesta Silver Jewelry “Customer Service is of the utmost importance. We help women of all ages enhance their inner beauty by accessorizing their outer beauty at an affordable price.”

Siesta Silver Jewelry pieces can be found at various events throughout West Michigan, at www.siestasilverjewelry.com and in local stores, such as: Stitching Memories in Portage, Rosewood Florist in Vicksburg and, most recently, at Siegel For more info: 269-548-7300 www.siestasilverjewelry.com

Wenke Greenhouses As Dutch farmers settled in Kalamazoo they planted celery and other edible crops. When California producers began to ship produce economically across the country, Kalamazoo growers made the switch from crops to flowers. In 1967, the Kalamazoo Valley Plant Growers Cooperative was established and blossomed into a membership of over 50 individually owned greenhouse businesses. Combined they are the country’s largest supplier of bedding plants.

In 1942, Chris and Ann opened Wenke Greenhouses. Lorence Wenke, their son, purchased the business in 1975 and later brother Dennis joined him. The Wenke business expanded to three locations including the original 3-acre facility in Kalamazoo, an 18 acre facility also in Kalamazoo and another site in Douglas, Georgia.

There are three divisions; Finished Wholesale, Young Plants, and Retail Garden Center. Finished Wholesale supplies independent garden centers, landscapers and the KVPG with plant flats, hanging baskets, geraniums, perennials, and specialty potted plants. In the Young Plants divisions, they sell plugs and liners through brokers to other greenhouse growers. They are a rooting station for Flower Fields, Goldfisch, Suntory, Simply Beautiful and A Cut Above. Wenke’s goal is “To Be the Preferred Supplier” in the Midwest and the Southeast.

Extensive retail experience enables Wenke Retail Garden Center Staff to understand what the gardener wants.

“We enjoy sharing a beautiful product and bringing happiness to the public,” Lisa Ambrosia, store manager. Wenke Greenhouses offers a free garden rewards program. Members receive newsletters, and other perks. Contact them at: 5071 Market St. Kalamazoo (269-388-2266). www.wenkegardencenter.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.

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September 2011

Money Secrets of the Amish: Finding True Abundance in Simplicity, Sharing, and Saving

By Lorilee Craker Thomas Nelson, 2011, $25.99 Caught up in the same financial woes as many, author Lorilee Craker decided it was time to personally take charge and get herself out of the hole.

A 2008 NPR program about how the Amish had emerged more successfully than others from recent economic disasters got her thinking. Growing up as a Mennonite, she had a bit of understanding about this culture but she wanted more. As she met with people in the Amish community, she gained tips on saving, spending and investing, but more than that, she picked up an understanding of a lifestyle so rich in family and community.

Thrift, self-control and carefulness are key in the Amish approach to handling life’s resources. Craker learned a great deal about what she calls “generous frugality.” Included in the ideas she shares with readers are frugal food sourcing, bartering, delayed gratification and simply saying “no” to flippant spending. There are some powerful thoughts about gift giving and de-spoiling our kids. In her year of financial mindfulness, Craker discovered a wealth of satisfaction and shares that gift with readers.

The Joy of Less: A Minimalist Living Guide How to Declutter, Organize, and Simplify Your Life

By Francine Jay Anja Press, 2010, $12.95 As the rhythm of the school year settles into place, September often brings a “new year” urge to purge and start fresh. This book could jump start a great new way of life for you.

The acronym STREAMLINE provides a 10-step plan to make decisions about your things, beginning with “Start over” and “Trash, treasure, or transfer.” For anything new coming into the home, Jay is all for “buy local, buy used, buy less.”

She urges us to own just enough to meet our needs and nothing more. Some suggestions were a bit extreme, but all were thought-provoking. Why not stay in tune with the spirit of this book, and instead of accumulating more, borrow this book from your local library.

The boldness of this book’s minimalist living plan took me by surprise. I have often advocated removing everything from a cupboard or closet as you purge.

That way, it’s easier to choose what you put back into the space.

This author takes a more radical approach: Francine Jay suggests emptying the entire room you plan to declutter.

When I picked up this book, I was in the midst of a new carpet installation in two rooms of my house and we had moved all the furniture and accessories out. The rooms were bare. It was exhilarating to look through the eyes of this minimalist plan and evaluate every item that re-entered the rooms.

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.

September 2011

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