Eat, Drink, & Be Merry - November 2016

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Greater Kalamazoo

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MAGAZINE | EXPO Luscious Libations

Captivating Decor

Essential • Entertaining • Enlightening WomensLifeStyleKazoo.com

Epicurious Sides

Here are some easy tips on “keeping in shape” while you’re pregnant: » Eat small frequent meals. Avoid excessive

amounts of sugars.

» Eat your fruits and vegetables! Getting fiber from

whole grains, fruits, and veggies combined with plenty of water is a great way to maintain a healthy weight and avoid constipation.

» Get Moving!! Walking for 30 minutes a day

is a great start if you have not been exercising previously. Swimming or riding a bike is great too!

Exercising regularly will increase your energy, put you in a better mood, help you sleep better and reduce backaches, constipation, and swelling.

» Doing regular exercise will help your recovery after delivery. » Make sure you are drinking plenty of water!!!!

Especially with the dry winter weather your body needs plenty of water. 80-100 ounces or 8-10 glasses every day.

» Be sure to get your protein in too. Protein is important for you and your baby! Good sources of protein are meats, milk, cheese and nuts. » Be sure to discuss your specific health needs with your doctor. Every woman is different, and every pregnancy is different! You need to find out what will work best for you and we can help you do that. » Your health needs change throughout pregnancy

and into the post partum period. Our website has some great resources - take a look: WWW. OBGYNPC.COM

Front row: Rebecca Kundan, FNP-BC Joseph Riethman, MD, FACOG Patti Zull, CNM, FNP-BC Rebekah Sharp, MD, FACOG Back row: Brittany Post, WHNP-BC Carter Lomax, MD, FACOG Carly Davis, MD, FACOG Marcia Johnson, MD, FACOG Wendy, Bauer, MD, FACOG Brandi Boone, CNM, WHNP-BC

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November 2016

OB-GYN P.C. 269.345.6197 2854 S 11th St Kalamazoo, MI 49009 www.obgynpc.com WomensLifeStyleKazoo.com

The People Who Make It Happen...

Publisher: Darlene Mohr dcmohr@wlskazoo.com Editor & Events Manager: Michelle Morgan mmorgan@wlskazoo.com Contributing Writers: Andrew Domino Kelly Duggan Heidi McCrary Erica Shier Sales Manager: Ruth Ann Dibert radibert@wlskazoo.com Account Executive: Brenda Murphy bmurphy@wlskazoo.com Layout & Design: Jennifer Chartier jchartier@wlskazoo.com Photography: K. Redmond Photography fb/kredmondphotography Administrative: Patty Clifford pclifford@wlskazoo.com Contact Us: 269-350-5227 Sales Info: 269-271-1032

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

By Email: info@wlskazoo.com editor@wlskazoo.com sales@wlskazoo.com Website: www.womenslifestylekazoo.com

NOVEMBER 2016

LIFE 5 10 Things to do in November 22 What A Year

LOOK WHO’S TALKING 14 Frances Vega

BUSINESS & FINANCE 28 New Business Adventure After 50

LEARN 20 The Art of Ease 22 5 Uses for Peppermint Oil 30 Lessons in Nature 34 Reader’s Lounge

STYLE 6

8 24 29

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HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

Local Shopping: Chicken Coop Treasures Neat Knits Local Shopping: Earthly Delights Express Your Style

FOOD & DRINK 10 13

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26 31

Luscious Libations Small Bites with Beverage Pairings Epicurious Sides - Fennel Gratin - Roasted Grape Salad Local Tastes: One Well Brewing Creamy Sweet Potato and Wild Rice Soup

COMMUNITY NEWS & HAPPENINGS 32 Calendar

Greater Kalamazoo MAGAZINE | EXPO

November 2016

3

FROMTHEPUBLISHER

“The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even touched. They must be felt with the heart.”

Eat Drink & Be Merry!

- Helen Keller

“Don’t let the past steal your present. This is the message of Christmas: We are never alone.”

As we head into the holidays, it’s important to find our own “true meaning” of what we want for the 2016 holiday season.

Sometimes we try too hard to make each holiday a carbon copy

- Taylor Caldwell

of the previous year(s). Releasing the old traditions makes room for new ones and opens our spirits to receiving all the world

“We elves try to stick to the four main food groups: candy, candy canes, candy corns and syrup.”

has to offer. No one is saying we have to give up all the old traditions, maybe just a few to make room for the new!

- Buddy the Elf

With that in mind, we hope you’ll find inspiration on the next pages to make a few changes to your Holiday festivities: 10 Things to Do in November, serving delicious foods and beverages with Small Bites with Beverage Pairings - all the way to Luscious Libations. And please take a moment to check out Local Shopping options before hitting the “Big Box’ stores.

“A friend is a gift you give yourself.”

- Robert Louis Stevenson

Our fondest wish for you is that you enjoy every moment of these upcoming holidays. Please know that even if you are dreading the holidays there maybe ways to circumvent that by taking that long dreamed of cruise to the Bahamas or treating yourself to a day or two at a luxury retreat. Next year you can go back to the traditions, if that’s what you choose. But for this year, why not give yourself permission to celebrate (or not celebrate!) however you choose. What a great holiday gift to give yourself – the gift of freedom – the gift of choice.

Gobble Gobble!

Darlene

“The only time to eat diet food is while you’re waiting for the steak to cook.”

- Julie Child

“Seize the moment. Remember all those women on the “Titanic” who waved off the dessert cart.”

- Erma Bombeck

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10 Things to do in

NOVEMBER 1

Be prepared.

Order your turkey, check on all the things you need for the upcoming month.

Sing. It’s a marvelous stress reducer.

4

Practice meditation each morning.

2

The holiday season can create unwelcomed stress, so here are ten ways to minimize negative thoughts and fill your cup with gratitude.

BY PEACHES MCCAHILL

Begin your holiday shopping.

Plan a visit to the many and simply fabulous local merchants that grace our town. Gather up great gifts and ideas that are one of a kind.

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5

Avoid extra sugar and caffeine.

Reach out to others.

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“When you arrive in the morning, think of what a precious privilege it is to be alive—to breathe, to think, to enjoy, to love and make that day count.”

Place a grateful statement somewhere you can see daily.

-Steve Maraboli

10

9

Replace a negative thought with one that is positive.

Greater Kalamazoo MAGAZINE | EXPO

Try a coloring book. It’s the newest craze and a terrific diversion.

8 Own your thoughts and feelings. Share them, if needed.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR Peaches McCahill is founder and president of The McCahill Group, a leading provider of health, wellness, beauty and talent solutions, and owner of M Power Studio. She has a passion to inspire others with simplistic lifestyle suggestions.

November 2016

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LOCAL SHOPPING

Chicken Coop Treasures

by Erica Shier

C

hicken Coop Treasures, “an eggstraordinary marketplace”, is located in an unassuming building in the heart of Texas Corners. The shop, at 7922 S. 8th Street, is owned and operated by Robin Burpee. Her desire is to inspire her customers by showing them a lifestyle that combines the new, the old and the handmade.

The items on offer at Chicken Coop Treasures are an eclectic mix of the antique, upcycled, new and unusual. Each item is selected with the hope that it will become a treasure; part of the fabric of your life and the story you’re telling.

The shop also offers beautifully reupholstered pieces with on-trend patterns and unusual details that make your piece a one-of-a-kind item. Giving old items new life is one of things that Chicken Coop Treasures is passionate about.

The shop offers Mixture candles in a variety of hues and fragrances. Hand-poured in New York, the scents are highly concentrated and will look lovely with any décor. As an added bonus, your favorite fragrance can be special ordered in any color glass you prefer.

Grace & Lace clothing line is a top seller in the store. The company sponsors orphanages and fights human trafficking in the villages and communities where its factories are located, making their apparel an ethical and fashionable choice.

The store is proud to offer its customers high quality rugs by Dash & Albert.

Manufactured by the Annie Selke Company, they are available in cotton, wool and jute (among other materials). Even better, the company is focused on empowering women to work outside their homes in order to sustain their families and communities.

Chicken Coop Treasures offers unique, upcycled furniture like the farmhouse table and chairs shown here. Painted in a current color palette, these pieces of furniture are always well-made. Quality is of the utmost importance, so you’ll find no press-board or shoddy workmanship in the store.

Chicken Coop Treasures offers six lines of home furnishing décor, paints and embellishments. It also does custom painting of pieces and holds painting classes every two weeks.

Erica Shier is a married mother of four who loves reading, scrapbooking and thrift stores. When she’s not driving her small pack of children around, she spends her time volunteering, writing and trying to keep on top of the laundry.

Chicken Coop Treasures, Inc. 7922 South 8th ST | “Texas Corners”| Kalamazoo MI 49009 | 269-447-2952 info@chickencooptreasures.com| www.chickencooptreasures.com M-T 10am – 8pm| W – F 10am – 6pm| Sat 8am – 2pm | Sun Closed

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November 2016

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Greater Kalamazoo MAGAZINE | EXPO

November 2016

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Neat

STYLE

Knits

Keep warm without sacrificing individuality. Find a kit that keeps your ears toasty and your spirits merry!

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Fuscia embroidered hat with ear flaps by Gucci.

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Eugenia Kim’s handcrafted headband with cat ears.

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Patagonia women’s vanilla beanie.

Anna Sui “Thinking Cap.”

Wool knitted hat with crochet in midnight blue by Gucci.

Stella McCartney red beanie.

Fendi hat with big eye detail and a touch of fur.

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November 2016

WomensLifeStyleKazoo.com

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November 2016

9

RECIPES

Luscious

LIBATIONS Creamy Chocolate Martini makes 1 serving

2 ounces vanilla vodka 1 ounce White Creme de Cocoa 1 ounce white chocolate liqueur, like Godiva 1 white chocolate bar

Pour ingredients into a shaker and shake thoroughly. Strain into a chilled martini glass.

Garnish with white chocolate shavings on top.

Spiced Cake Martini

Pomegranate Martini

White Hot Chocolate

2 ounces hazelnut flavor liqueur, like Baileys 1/2 ounce cake flavored vodka Sprinkle of nutmeg powder Sprinkle of powdered sugar

1 ounce citrus vodka 1/2 ounce orange liqueur

3 ounces pomegranate juice Chopped ice 1/4 teaspoon lemon juice Lemon slice for garnish

3 cups light cream or half-and-half 3/4 cup vanilla candy melts, chopped

1 teaspoon vanilla Pinch of ground cinnamon

1 ounce Irish cream liqueur

Combine all ingredients in a cocktail shaker. Add ice so that the shaker is about one-third full. Shake for several seconds and strain into a cocktail glass.

Garnish with the lemon slice.

Combine one cup of the cream with the candy in a saucepan. Melt slowly over low heat. Add the remaining cream, vanilla and cinnamon until everything is heated. Add the liqueur and stir.

Garnish with more cinnamon. Serve warm.

makes 1 serving

Shake liqueur and vodka together and strain into a martini glass. Sprinkle with nutmeg and sugar, and serve.

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November 2016

makes 1 serving

makes 4 one-cup servings

WomensLifeStyleKazoo.com

Local Holiday

Shopping Guide

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

Holiday Open House!

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November 2016

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Local Holiday

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November 2016

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Small Bites with

Beverage Pairings

BY JEN FOLEY • PHOTOGRAPHY BY TWO EAGLES MARCUS

W

ith the holidays around the corner, try something different for your annual get together. Offering a menu of tasty small plates with a different beverage to match each is sure to wow your guests.

Mini Beef Wellington with Creamy Horseradish Sauce Cranberry and Brie Pizzette with Rosemary makes 8-12 servings

1

1

1/2

2

2

package prepared pie dough wheel brie, sliced into 1 inch pieces cup cranberry preserves tablespoon fresh rosemary, minced eggs, whisked

Preheat the oven to 375 F. Using a 1-inch round cookie cutter, cut the pie dough into individual dough rounds and transfer them to a lined cookie sheet. Using a fork, prick the pie dough all over to prevent it from rising while baking. Brush each piece of dough with egg wash until well coated.

Top each piece of dough with a slice of brie, a sprinkle of rosemary, and a dollop of preserves and bake for 12-15 minutes or until the dough is golden brown on the edges and the cheese has melted. Try pairing with a glass of dry prosecco or rosĂŠ.

Seared Scallop over Parsnip Puree and Sauteed Greens makes 8-12 servings 12

1

1 1/2

4

1

1

2

For the scallops; heat 1 tablespoon olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Pat the scallops dry and season them on both sides with salt and pepper.

Sear the scallops for about 3 minutes on both sides, or until golden on the outside and translucent on the inside.

For the puree; add the parsnips, garlic, thyme, milk and cream to a sauce pan and bring to a simmer over medium heat.

Cook for 12-15 minutes, or until the parsnips are tender. Transfer the parsnips and garlic to a blender or food processor and puree. Add enough of the milk mixture to achieve a smooth, creamy texture. Season to taste with salt and pepper.

For the greens; heat the remaining olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.

Add the spinach and allow it to cook until wilted and deep green, about 5 minutes.

Serve a dollop of puree topped with some greens and a scallop. Try pairing with a crisp sauvignon blanc or a spicy pinot noir.

large scallops pound fresh spinach pound parsnips, peeled and sliced cup heavy cream cloves garlic, peeled teaspoon fresh thyme stick plus 1 tablespoon unsalted butter tablespoon olive oil Salt and pepper

Greater Kalamazoo MAGAZINE | EXPO

makes 8-12 servings

1 1/2 pounds beef tenderloin, cut into 12 pieces

1 cup mini portobello mushrooms, sliced

1 container boursin cheese, softened

2 sheets puff pastry, thawed and rolled to 1/4 inch thick

2 tablespoons unsalted butter

1 cup sour cream 1/4 cup horseradish

1 tablespoon dijon mustard

1 teaspoon white wine vinegar

1 handful fresh parsley, chopped Salt and pepper Pat the beef dry and season well with salt and pepper. Melt the butter in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the beef for no more than a few minutes, just until golden. Set the beef aside to cool.

Add the mushrooms to the same pan and cook until golden and softened, about 5 minutes. Allow to cool. Preheat the oven to 400 F and line a baking sheet with parchment.

Using a 2-inch round cookie cutter, cut the puff pastry into 12 circles and transfer to the baking sheet. Dollop a small spoonful of boursin onto each piece of pastry and top it with a piece of beef and a small spoonful of the mushrooms.

Bring the sides of the pastry up and around the beef and pinch it together to form a pouch.

Brush all of the wellingtons with egg wash and bake for 20 minutes or until golden brown.

For the sauce; whisk to combine the sour cream, dijon, vinegar, horseradish, parsley salt and pepper.

Serve the wellingtons either topped with sauce or with it on the side for dipping. Try pairing with a glass of dark cabernet sauvignon.

Jen Foley is a wife, mom and personal chef. She can be contacted at chefjenfoley11@gmail.com.

November 2016

13

LOOK WHO’S TALKING

F

or Frances Vega, there is nothing more important than her family. She and her husband, Fernando Costas, moved from their native Puerto Rico to Portage almost ten years ago because they were searching for a school for their son, Fernando Javier. The resources for children like Fernando Javier, who is on the Autism spectrum, are not nearly as plentiful in Puerto Rico as they are in West Michigan. Frances wanted to be sure her son had all the help and support he needed.

The family first heard of the Croyden Avenue School (now known as Kalamazoo RESA West Campus) through an Autism society, but they had to wait three years for Fernando, a Chemical Engineer, to get a purchase order in the area. When they finally arrived, the family was thrilled with the support they found and Fernando is now a Junior at Portage Central.

Frances, herself trained as a Chemical Engineer, soon found a new passion to pursue. Sangria is a vital part of her Puerto Rican heritage. She notes “Every family, every town has its own Sangria recipe”. She brought her own recipe to gatherings and soon people were asking her to make it for their own celebrations. It didn’t take long for her Sangria making to grow into a cottage industry, spread primarily through word of mouth.

Fernando was supportive of Frances’ new career and in 2010 they began the process of getting the business licensed. In August of 2012, The Sangria Shop opened its doors at its current location on South Sprinkle Road. At the time, the shop offered three flavors of Sangria: Classica (the recipe that started it all), Fragum (Strawberry) and Ambrosia. Since its inception, the Sangria Shop has also added Tropical, Stonefruits and Wildberry Sangria, all of which are seasonal.

FRANCES VEGA Immigrant, Autism Mother, Cancer Survivor, Chemical Engineer, Business Owner, Cook & More

In January of 2015, when her second son Gabriel was just an infant, Frances was diagnosed with Stage 3 Breast Cancer.

The road ahead was arduous; almost 18 months of treatment followed. Frances first had a mastectomy and the lymph nodes were removed. She then underwent four grueling months of dose dense chemotherapy.

After reconstruction, she received 33 doses of radiation and a year’s worth of Herceptin infusions. Frances is thrilled and relieved to report that she finished treatment in June of 2016 and there is no evidence of the cyst.

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November 2016

Frances is eager to return her attention to some of the things that had to be put aside during her cancer fight. She spent years volunteering with charities like the Autism Society of Kalamazoo and Great Start Collaborative of Kalamazoo (serving on the board of both) and was a member of the Optimist Club of Kalamazoo. She is an avid cook who loves to experiment with new recipes and techniques, so she looks forward to having more energy to dedicate to this passion.

More than anything, Frances loves to spend time with her husband and boys. She loves art and enjoys taking trips to Frederick Meijer Gardens, often making a whole day of it. The whole family loves Sci-Fi and enjoys watching the latest season of Doctor Who or newest installment in the Marvel movie franchise.

Whatever they are doing together, you can be sure that Frances is grateful for every moment.

WomensLifeStyleKazoo.com

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Greater Kalamazoo MAGAZINE | EXPO

November 2016

15

SIDES

PHOTOGRAPHY AND RECIPES BY EMILY WILSON

Fennel Gratin makes 4 to 6 servings

3 large (or 4 small) fennel bulbs

1 tablespoon olive oil 2/3 cup shredded parmesan cheese 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs 1/2 cup coarsely chopped parsley Pinch of salt and pepper Boil six cups of water in a large pot. Trim the fronds and base from the fennel bulbs and cut fennel into 1 to 2 inch pieces.

Remove any woody centers. Place the fennel bulbs in the boiling water and let cook for 5 to 7 minutes or until tender.

Meanwhile, combine the cheese, panko, parsley, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Drain the fennel bulbs and place in a baking dish. Mix half the breadcrumb mixture with the fennel and spread the rest across the top.

Bake, covered with tin foil, for 20 minutes. Remove the tin foil and bake an additional 15 minutes or until the top is browned.

Serve and enjoy!

Roasted Grape Salad makes 4 to 6 servings

For the salad: 4-6 cups seedless grapes (dark red or a mix)

1 tablespoon olive oil

5 cups arugula or mixed greens 1/3 cup crumbly blue cheese (or feta) 1/4 cup coarsely chopped walnuts Pinch of salt For the dressing:

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 tablespoon lemon juice Pinch of salt and pepper Preheat the oven to 450 F. Place the grapes in a jelly roll pan or on a silpat sheet and cover with olive oil and sprinkle with salt.

Roast in the oven for 5 to 7 minutes or until some grapes have started to pop open. Meanwhile, place the arugula on a large serving dish and mix together the ingredients for the dressing.

Remove grapes from oven and place on top of arugula.

Sprinkle the blue cheese, walnuts, and dressing on top and serve immediately.

Emily Wilson creates mostly healthy, often vegetarian recipes on her blog Shiny Happy Bright. Find these recipes and more at www. shinyhappybright.com, on Pinterest, and on Instagram as @shinyhappybright.

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November 2016

WomensLifeStyleKazoo.com

Local Holiday

Shopping Guide

➢ Independent

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

GALLERY SHOP THE ONE SHOP FOR UNIQUE Jewelry, Ceramics, Glass Textiles & Children’s Items from Local, National & International Artists Free giftwrap on all purchases.

Closed on Mondays

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Greater Kalamazoo MAGAZINE | EXPO

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November 2016

17

Local Holiday

Gift Guide Metal Pumpkins for your table. $16-$30.

Liberty Square 269.329.0434 8639 Portage Rd, Portage www.LSFHome.com M-F 10-6, W 10-8, Sat 10-4, Closed Sun

Jewelry by ADI Modeschmuck in Berlin found in Gallery Shop.

Kalamazoo Institute of Arts 314 S. Park St Downtown Kalamazoo www.kiarts.org

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We have a full line of NOW nutritional supplements and our popular line of Ultrasonic Oil Diffusers and Essential Oils starting at $5.99 to $49.99. Â Medicine Tree Pharmacy 56109 Village Center Circle Mattawan, MI 49071 269.668.6801 Mon-Fri 8-6, Sat 9-1

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November 2016

WomensLifeStyleKazoo.com

Local Holiday

Gift Guide

Shop GiftLoft for the best selection of Contemporary gifts.

Shown: Wherever you go, make yourself comfortable. Lamzac® the original is fun & simple to inflate. Just swing the lightweight bag to fill it with air and create a life size lounge seat.

Gift Loft 551 Romence Rd, Portage 269.329.0800 • www.giftloftfurniture.com Mon-Fri 10-6 • Sun 12-5

Free Remote Starter with purchase of a new Toyota from stock.

Cannot be combined with special offers or programs.

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Make a bold statement with these festive socks from troVe. $8.95 to $11.95. troVe 8639 Portage Rd Portage, MI 49002

Endless Jewelry ~ Danish Design & Handmade Fine Jewelry From the thoughts and ideas of the designer to the craftsmanship of the handmade fine Sterling Silver Jewelry; the vision is to create elements of beauty, allowing all women to express their true colors and true personality. Set your mind free and create endless opportunities with Endless Jewelry.

Greater Kalamazoo MAGAZINE | EXPO

Chicken Coop Treasures, Inc. 7922 South 8th Street Kalamazoo, MI 49009 269.447.2952 www.ChickenCoopTreasures.com

November 2016

19

The Art of Ease:

DESIGNING WITH INTENTION TO CREATE MEMORABLE OCCASIONS

BY JAN MCCOLLUM

things your guests may need nearby for their convenience (i.e. extra napkins) and make them available.

BABY STEP 3: KEEP THE DECORATING SIMPLE.

Sometimes less truly is more. Rather than decorating every square inch of space, work with a central focal point like the fireplace.

Accent several key areas such as the entry, buffet, or seating areas to create a rhythm that will carry the eye around the space.

Edited and strategic use of decoration will create great ambiance and allow good flow of energy throughout the space.

Pay attention to lighting. Lighting can create dramatic effects in a space and set the perfect mood for the occasion. Balance the atmosphere by lighting on several levels including ceiling, mid-range (lamps) and accent lighting. Use candles liberally! If entertaining outdoors, hurricane candle holders will block the wind and keep your candles glowing all evening long.

Play great music. Though the term “great” is somewhat subjective, select music that will the compliment the tone of the party or event and the vibe you want to create.

T

his is one of my favorite lines from the movie, “What About Bob?”. If you haven’t seen this movie (available on Netflix), Bob, the central character, is an all-in kind of guy. His intense engagement with life is both endearing and immensely annoying to those with whom he crosses paths. Bob’s many neuroses and his obsessive attachment to his ego-centric psychiatrist comprise the plot of the movie, which takes Bob on a personal journey from intensity to ease via intention. Baby step by baby step, Bob learns to conquer his phobias and an amazing transformation takes place.

Often, whether it is preparing for the holidays, or entertaining friends at a backyard barbecue, intensity seems to win out over intention. It is tempting to focus more on the latest seasonal decorating ideas and/or style trends than on the experiences and memories we hope the occasion will create. As we head into this holiday season, let’s design with intention as opposed to intensity. The following is my own list of “baby steps” to encourage focus on the memories instead of the mistletoe.

BABY STEP 1: BEGIN WITH THE END IN MIND.

How would you like your guests to feel when they leave? Reverse engineer accordingly. This is primarily a matter of anticipating needs and ensuring your guests feel comfortable and welcome in your home, backyard, or wherever you happen to be entertaining. Place yourself in the roll of your guest. Conduct a mental and

20

November 2016

“As we head into this holiday season, let’s design with intention as opposed to intensity.” physical walk through of the event. Is it easy to move throughout the space? Is the menu easy to negotiate whether standing or sitting? Is there enough space to accommodate the activities planned?

BABY STEP 2: CREATE A CONDUCIVE ATMOSPHERE

Plan the traffic flow. How would you like your guests to move through the space? Create a defined and welcoming entry. Depending on the season, designate an area for coats, boots, etc. This may be controversial to some, but here goes! If entertaining indoors, do not ask your guests to remove their shoes. If they choose to do so let it be their decision, not an instruction. Create an atmosphere that emphasizes the importance of your guests over concern for your floors!

The purpose of entertaining is to bring people together.

Move furnishings away from the perimeter of the room and pull together into “conversational clusters” to create coziness and easy interaction. Make sure there is a place for guests to set a plate or glass adjacent to where they are sitting or standing. Anticipate other

BABY STEP 4: KEEP THE FOCUS ON INTERACTION.

Revise your space plan to eliminate obstacles and make it easy for your guests to mingle. Entertaining is about community. The most enjoyable and successful occasions are so because of intentional focus bringing people together.

BABY STEP 5: SMILE FOR THE CAMERA!

Assign an event photographer (this is a great task for a responsible offspring). Snap candid pictures or videos of the event and create a slide show loop on an iPad or Apple TV during the event. This is a great way to record and remember the memories you’ve worked hard to create.

Decorating for the holidays may be more about infrastructure. We get a great feeling when we enter a beautifully appointed space, but we leave with a great memory if we’ve had the opportunity to experience design with intention by a host who understands the art of ease. Happy holidays!

Founder and design principal of J Parker McCollum, Inc., Jan is a speaker, mentor, educator, and product designer with projects featured in several local publications. jparkermccollum.com

WomensLifeStyleKazoo.com

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Greater Kalamazoo MAGAZINE | EXPO

November 2016

21

5 USES

FOR PEPPERMINT OIL

For those seeking alternative remedies for seasonal ailments, make friends with one of the most versatile essential oils: peppermint.

1

SOOTHE THE STOMACH

Perhaps you indulged—really indulged. Peppermint is a powerful anti-nausea that soothes the gastric lining and colon. Whether it’s indigestion or a simple stomach ache, add a single drop of oil to a cup of warm water for a soothing peppermint tea.

Here’s a Thought…

Women’s Issues • One Woman’s Opinion

What A Year!

If you live in the Kalamazoo area, you were probably knocked off your feet more than once this year by the horrific events involving the mass shooting in February, and the tragedy involving the bicyclists this past June. Both incidents drew national news coverage, and painted a dark picture of what people are capable of doing, along with the incredibly sad consequences of their actions.

No one would argue with any of us if we quietly closed out the year, saying “Next year will be better.” But that’s not how we operate here in Kalamazoo. Instead, after getting knocked down, we stood back up as a community, and stood side by side.

2

ENERGIZE

3

RELIEVE PAIN

THE PEOPLE… Beyond those who make the headlines on a regular basis, Kalamazoo is built on a foundation of good people who make a difference on a daily basis but without the fanfare. Like the two women highlighted below, who champion a segment of the community without a voice, and are Superheroes to world of dogs and cats.

4

RELIEVE SINUSES

Katie Timber works endlessly as the Executive Director of SPCA of SWMI – a non-profit organization dedicated to rescuing homeless dogs and cats, and adopting them into responsible homes. You have probably seen Katie with a spunky dog or two on the local news on Channel 3, or at one of the many SPCA events held in the area.

5

Boost energy and improve concentration with a few whiffs of peppermint. Diffuse it in an office or at home for a subtle lift of spirits and enhanced productivity.

Feeling muscle pain or achy joints? Ease pain and reduce inflammation by taking a warm bath with 3-5 drops of peppermint, or dilute 2-3 drops with a carrier oil or lotion and rub into affected area.

From seasonal allergies to the common cold, peppermint can reduce inflammation and clogging in the sinus cavity, serve as an expectorant, and enhance breathing. Diffuse peppermint with a diffuser, inhale it from the bottle, or dab a tiny drop onto the roof of the mouth with your thumb for relief.

REDUCE HEADACHES

Feeling under the weather? Peppermint can increase blood circulation and relax tense muscles. Take a single drop into the palm and dab peppermint with a finger on the temples, forehead and anywhere else tension is felt.

Disclaimer: This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

While the violence behind the two tragedies does not reflect who we are, how the people of Kalamazoo reacted to the events does define us. We are part of an incredible community – defined by three factors.

And over at Animal Rescue Project, Amy Geil Susan is also championing cats and dogs by dedicating her time to helping with the rescue, rehabilitation and adoption of at-risk pets in pound facilities. You may have encountered Amy with a cat or dog at one of the many fund-raising events she facilitates.

PLACES… When it comes to unique shops and eateries, the area is exploding with a distinct local flavor that rivals cities twice its size. And to keep us on our toes, the city’s shopping and dining landscape is ever-changing. From crack Fries at the new-to-Kazoo HopCat, Bronco shirts and Plainwell Ice Cream at the newly-located The Spirit of Kalamazoo, to a cappuccino at the new Coffee Bar at Sawall Health Foods, it’s all good! Want to relax?

Kalamazoo has you covered, with a multitude of parks, trails and nature preserves.

AND THINGS While Kalamazoo sounds like a Dr. Seuss name, the heart of what makes it tick is very real. People providing a large monetary gift to the city which will help in bringing down the city’s debt, and lessening the burden to those living in the city, and organizations stepping up in the rebuilding and revitalizing of Bronson Park is why I am proud to call Kalamazoo home.

Here’s a thought… As we look back on 2016, let’s remember what makes us Kalamazoo Strong.

Heidi McCrary is a writer, and co-owner of Ad Shop, etc. – a boutique advertising agency offering full-service and alá carte marketing services to local businesses.

Contact Heidi at heidi@adshopetc.com and on Facebook at adshopetc.

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November 2016

WomensLifeStyleKazoo.com

holiday shopping for your little ones!

269.366.4325 | LittleSproutBoutique.com 3009 Oakland Drive | Kalamazoo 49008

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Music Instruction for All Ages & Abilities Study and learn in a positive and supportive atmosphere with professional, enthusiastic, experienced, university-trained teaching artists including Kalamazoo Symphony Orchestra Artists-in-Residence • Private instruction on strings, woodwinds, brass, piano, guitar, percussion, voice, theory and composition • Workshops and Masterclasses • Crescendo Fiddlers • Kalamazoo Mandolin & Guitar Orchestra • Chamber Ensembles for strings and winds • Crescendo Community Voices for teens and adults with mental and/or physical challenges • Music Together® classes for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers • Orff Studio group classes for ages 5 and up Our mission is your musical growth and enjoyment!

Epic Center, Suite 12, 359 S. Kalamazoo Mall information@crescendoacademy.com www.crescendoacademy.com 269/345-6664

Greater Kalamazoo MAGAZINE | EXPO

REAL PEOPLE REAL MORTGAGES MERCANTILE BANK MORTGAGE SERVICES There are plenty of mortgage options out there, but chances are there is only one that is just right for you. Let a Mercantile Bank mortgage lender help you find the perfect mortgage for your life and your future. No gimmicks and no games, just solid mortgage options with competitive rates designed around your needs.

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November 2016

23

LOCAL SHOPPING

by Erica Shier

E

Earthly Delights

arthly Delights, located at 157 S. Kalamazoo Mall in the heart of downtown, offers casual couture for you and your home. The apparel offered at Earthly Delights is almost entirely made in the United States and in Europe by small production houses and individual designers. Fashions are selected with care months in advance of each season, with one size per color in each piece, which means your look will truly be unique.

Earthly Delights also offers unique accessories for your home. Here you can choose from richly embroidered pillows, recycled glass bowls from Shiraleah and irresistible tchotchkes to add just the right touch to your nest.

With carefully selected designs in a variety of colors, patterns and textures, Earthly Delights is the perfect place to search for a few key pieces to add zest to your current wardrobe. The staff is committed to developing personal relationships with the store’s customers and will make an effort to help you grow and evolve in your personal style.

Earthly Delights offers quality leather goods that will stand the test of time. Whether you’re searching for the perfect pair of boots, a stylish belt or a handbag you’ll treasure for years, you’ll likely find what you’re searching for here.

This asymmetrical jacket, Cordelia’s Other Duster, is from Neesh, a clothing line that is designed and manufactured in Chicago. The shape is easy and flattering with a two-way side zipper that adjusts from top and bottom so you can choose the perfect look for you.

Earthly Delights is proud to offer baby clothes and accessories by Milkbarn.

Beautifully made in northern California with organic cotton, these items are perfect for the little ones in your life. Available in sizes ranging from newborn to 18 months and featuring mix and match designs, you’re sure to find the perfect combination.

Cut Loose is a line designed and manufactured in San Francisco. Its pieces are comfortable and stylish at the same time and wash like a dream. Easy to wear and easy to care for, these pieces would make a perfect addition to any wardrobe.

Erica Shier is a married mother of four who loves reading, scrapbooking and thrift stores. When she’s not driving her small pack of children around, she spends her time volunteering, writing and trying to keep on top of the laundry.

Earthly Delights

a casual couture for you and your home

24

November 2016

157 S. Kalamazoo Mall | Kalamazoo, MI 49006 | (269) 226-0110 www.earthlydelights.us | FB: EarthlyDelightsKalamazoo M–F: 10am – 5:30pm, after 5:30 by appointment Sat: 10am – 4pm | Sun: Closed WomensLifeStyleKazoo.com

Holiday Catering

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Ink and Paper Ink and paper have worked together for thousands of years. Scribes and writers have invested painstakingly long hours in order to preserve traditions and communicate wisdom.

The printing press may have changed the process, but the motivation is still the same—to preserve the wisdom of the past and provide people today and in the future with information that could change their lives.

Every print job today still involves that time-honored tradition.

Our body of knowledge may be greater now, but we still hope to enhance the future for every individual in a meaningful way.

We can work with one another to improve our expertise, and in the process we can all continue to participate in that amazing tradition.

Let’s make our future look colorful, glossy, and bright!

1116 W Centre Avenue ☎ 323-9333 PortagePrinting.com

Greater Kalamazoo MAGAZINE | EXPO

November 2016

25

TASTES FROM THE KITCHEN

by Erica Shier

One Well Brewing ingredients to make food that is both healthy and delicious.

Because Chris is a vegetarian, Chef Sal has carefully created a menu in which most dishes are superb without meat, while offering patrons the opportunity to add it when desired. One Well also offers weekly and/or weekend specials that seek to take advantage of the wide variety seasonal fruits and vegetables available in West Michigan. Chef Sal’s background at fine dining restaurants has translated well into the Brewery’s menu of simple yet fresh and tasty food.

ne Well Brewing, located at 4213 Portage Street in Kalamazoo, is the manifestation of years of passion and dedication to excellence on the part of owners, Chris O’Neill and TJ Waldofsky.

Chris’ years as a home brewer and TJ’s commitment to find the best beers being produced today led them to this joint venture and gave Kalamazoo this welcome addition to the microbrew market.

While many patrons enter the doors looking for a pint, the food on offer at One Well is of the utmost importance to Chris and TJ. That’s why they chose Chef Sal Gonzalez to create a menu designed to bring people together and instill a sense of community. While the food can be described as “high-end bar food”, it’s much more than that.

Most of the menu items can be eaten with your hands or shared with another person. One Well believes that food is a craft and a form of art and they are committed to using fresh, locally-sourced

Talk about what One Well Brewery has to offer would be incomplete without at least mentioning the diverse brews on tap. From their Sweet Water Street porter to Professor Nutbutter’s House of Treats, the beers at One Well Brewing are unique and brewed with care. Whether you love a good IPA (choose Zeus’ Sexual Appetite) or a beer with chocolate undertones (do try the ironically named Don’t), you’ll find something for every taste here.

Whether you’re looking for a pint of delicious local beer or simply craving a good meal with friends, you can’t go wrong with a trip to One Well Brewing.

Erica Shier is a married mother of four who loves reading, scrapbooking and thrift stores. When she’s not driving her small pack of children around, she spends her time volunteering, writing and trying to keep on top of the laundry.

One Well Brewing | 269.459.9240 4213 Portage Street| Kalamazoo, MI 49001 www.onewellbrewing.com| FB: onewellbrewing W & Th: 3pm – 12am | F: 3pm – 1am | Sat: 12pm – 1am | Sun: 12pm – 11am | M & T Closed

26

November 2016

Steph Curry Pizza

Sauce Ingredients:

1/4 cup coconut milk

2 tablespoon peanut butter

1 tablespoon red curry paste

1 tablespoon brown sugar

1 tablespoon red pepper flakes Toppings:

10”

1/4

1/4

1/4

2

1

1

thin pizza crust cup shredded carrots cup diced red bell pepper cup diced yellow onion tablespoon cilantro tablespoon scallions cup shredded mozzarella

Preheat oven to 450 degrees. Mix sauce ingredients until a consistent texture is achieved. Spread sauce evenly over 10” pizza crust. Sprinkle all toppings on pizza crust except cilantro, applying the mozzarella cheese first.

When oven is preheated, place the pizza on a pizza stone or metal pizza pan. Heat for six to 10 minutes, or until crust and cheese are golden brown. Garnish with cilantro.

WomensLifeStyleKazoo.com

More than 13 cute therapy dogs in one calendar!

SOUNDS OF THE SEASON

Christmas with Angel Blue MILLER AUDITORIUM

Saturday, December 3, 2016 | 8pm

Support hospice!

Sold Nov. 1 - Dec. 31. at local Pet Supplies Plus stores, Bark’s 5th Avenue, and more, visit:

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Angel Blue is the laureate of Placido Domingo’s international Operalia competition.

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Raymond Harvey, Conductor; Angel Blue, Soprano & Kalamazoo Children’s Chorus, directed by Fred Sang

TICKETS Go to KalamazooSymphony.com or call 269.387.2300 Special Event Series tickets $24-$60 (Student and Veteran discounts available)

• Home Hospice Care • Rose Arbor • Grief Support • Adult Day Services

Seasons Greetings from the

Four Points Live Music

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IF YOU FIND YOU'RE PLAYING HIDE AND SEEK WITH YOUR LIFE

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Greater Kalamazoo MAGAZINE | EXPO

November 2016

27

IT’S NEVER TOO LATE from

Boats to Breakfast

M

ost people who like to cook get a chance to experiment now and then — maybe they make dinner for their families a few times a week or host a party on Saturday night. Then there are people who turn their favorite foods into a money-making venture.

Barb Perkovic, 68, co-owns The Adventures of Barb & Tammy, where each week she helps mix up a batch of granola for sale at local farmers’ markets. Her partner, Tammy Buffin, stirs together the dry ingredients, and Perkovic handles the liquids. They spend about four hours a week creating granola of nearly a dozen varieties, from cherry pecan to “peanut butter and jelly” to seasonal types like pumpkin and chocolate chai. They use the facilities at Kalamazoo Can-Do Kitchen, where they got their start almost a decade ago.

Perkovic and Buffin’s husbands worked together in the chemistry department at Western Michigan University, and also crewed a boat in the annual Chicago-toMackinac yacht race. Each year, Barb and Tammy would wait for their husbands on Mackinac Island.

One year, there was no wind on Lake Michigan which

slowed the sailors to a crawl. It also gave Perkovic and Buffin a chance to get to know one another. They discovered a shared interested in cooking.

“My parents owned a restaurant in Silver Lakes (Ade’s Glass Tap, now called the Lakeview Inn),” Perkovic said. “I grew up there. For me to do this is comforting.” Once they had their granola recipes worked out, they started with a table at the Texas Township Farmers Market, alongside custom-made birdhouses and plant decorations they also worked on.

“We had dirt on one side, and granola on the other,” Perkovic said. “I did the birdhouses and painted garden labels. Tammy did the plant displays. We both labored over those hyper tufa pots and the cement bird baths.”

The granola was popular right away; they did rely on their own financing for the first year or so, but after that, sales were enough to pay for ingredients and space at the Can-Do Kitchen. The Adventures of Barb and Tammy became a part-time business in about 2008. Perkovic is formerly a teacher in Dowagiac, and now works part-time as an usher at Chenery Auditorium. She has no intention of giving up on granola-making, though.

“We are a hobby client (of the Can-Do Kitchen); we’re not doing this for money,” Perkovic said. “When people taste it, they say, ‘Wow,’ that’s what we really like”.

Local granola maker starts new business

BY ANDREW DOMINO

Perkovic said she agrees with the idea that it’s “never too late” to get a business going. She enjoys the fact that granola-making and selling is a social experience.

“I get to talk to Tammy for four hours a week and all the people at the farmers markets”, she said.

She credits the Can-Do Kitchen for help in making their idea of locally made granola into a reality. The organization’s support in operating a small business — everything from marketing to licensing — meant Perkovic and Buffin could spend more of their time perfecting their recipes. “I like less risk-taking, it’s more indicative of my personality”, she said. “You have to consider all the risks, but go for it!” −−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−− The Adventures of Barb and Tammy granola is available at the Texas Township Farmers’ Market, the Bank Street Farmers Market in Kalamazoo (and the Winter Market in the same location), the Portage Market and Sawall Health Foods, 2965 Oakland Drive. www.facebook.com/The-Adventures-of-Barb-andTammy-176895662341824 You can see more of Andrew Domino’s writing at www.dominowriting.com

THE CROSSROADS MALL Featuring Over 30 Local Retailers & 100 Stores Located on Westnedge Avenue in Portage 1/2 Mile South of I-94 For a complete listing of stores, visit TheCrossroadsMall.com

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Affordable Help Is Available 28

November 2016

WomensLifeStyleKazoo.com

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Express Your Style

How to Create Signature Personal Style for the Office

W

hile you know that you get only one chance to make the all-important first impression, it is equally imperative to make every day a day that you look your very best, which includes expressing an authentic style. Expressing your style, begins by discovering and knowing ‘your’ style … your very own Personal Style.

Some people instinctively know what style or personality of clothes they feel “at home” in and truly express who they are. Others, because of being impressionable or a desire to please others, may even have a style dictated to them. This often happens to the professional, especially if she has a very conservative employer. Clothing Personality is a vital part of creating good personal style, and one of four components to the defining process.

Clothing Personality Traits

There are six categories commonly used in referencing clothing styles – Classic, Dramatic, Romantic, Ingénue, Natural and Gamin(Creative). You may find that one suits you perfectly or that you are a combination of two. Consider which of these clothing style personalities best flatter your figure as well as express your inner self: The Classic is controlled and organized. She is

refined and elegant, with a look that is timeless but fashionable.

Sophisticated with a high-fashion look is the Dramatic. Wherever she goes, she causes heads to turn. Her personality is one of mystery and majesty.

The Romantic is the epitome of femininity and sex appeal – she is born to be curvy and very feminine.

She’s charming, enchanting, and has a magnetic personality.

The Ingénue is naively feminine. She is the woman that carries a sweet, youthful, innocent portrait of femininity. She is often delicate looking.

More than any other personality, the Natural knows who she is from a very young age. Her clothes are less tailored and more unstructured. What she wants is comfort.

She is a gal of great energy and talent. The Gamin look is snappy but chic, with a style related to the Classic but much greater animation and energy.

Expressing Your Style in the Office

The Classic will rarely struggle to create a believable look in business attire. As for the balance of style personalities consider these points…

› The Dramatic, and at times the Gamin, tends to

overdress for business. For both it is important to express your style but be approachable at the same time. › The Romantic can present to sexy for business.

Watch necklines, skirt lengths and that finishing & accessories are businesslike. › The delicate youthfulness of the Ingénue may be perceived as powerless in business. Counter this with use of authorative colors. › Extreme Natural’s beware of too un-kept of an appearance for business. Simple and easy is the name of the game.

Knowing your industry well, and keeping the focus on the business at hand, are key.

Explore, define and honor your personal style traits.

Lastly, use these traits as a guide to grow an inner confidence, give you ‘looks’ that you wear & love, improve your prospects for career advancement and grow a Signature Style all your own.

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.

November 2016

29

IN NATURE

BY RICK VUYST

I

n this month of thankfulness, we often take for granted the trees surrounding us. As the final colorful leaves drift to earth and our attention turns toward boughs of holiday evergreen, reflect on how trees provide color, shade, oxygen, a home for wildlife, beauty, food, fuel and mark the seasons of our lives.

Trees also teach us valuable lessons of diversity, perseverance and value.

Every year it seems we experience a storm event where trees succumb to a wind or ice and cause damage. It is a natural physical reminder of entropy, or a lack of order or predictability, or gradual decline into disorder, in our lives. We all deal with entropy in our lives, but prefer to ignore signs of deterioration. We work to move forward because we are either moving forward or backward, and not much stays the same and certainly not for long. When it comes to entropy, we grow when we: 1 Recognize it as reality.

2 Develop the skill to identify it and resist apathy

and complacency.

3 Understand entropy applies not only to the

physical body, but mentally too (our attitudes and relationships).

4 Most importantly, developing a clear understanding of what you can manage. Entropy

dictates the need to manage what and how much we can manage in our realm.

This past year, a major wind event felled a number of trees in our neighborhoods. When they fell it was a good reminder of necessary maintenance, planning and development to battle the ever present effects of entropy. For example, to have strong trunks, tree trunks should be tapered from top to bottom. Trees develop tapered trunks from two major events in their lives: trunks swaying back and forth in the wind and the presence of branches with leaves all along the trunk.

These lessons are learned early in the life of a tree and its development. Without it, they won’t be able to support the canopy of the tree when the storms of life arrive. It is just like humans, the most intelligent have the ability to hold two opposing views in their mind and still be able to function.

The wind event reminded us of the importance of a tree’s root collar. It is the area where the roots join the main stem or trunk. At the base of the tree there is a flare leading to the major roots. The root collar is part of the tree’s trunk. Unlike roots, the trunk is not specialized to resist constant soil moisture. If the tree is planted originally too deep or has soil or mulch mounded against the root collar and bark that is not accustomed to being wet, we will eventually

see decline, and ultimately failure of the tree at some point. Root collar from the start makes a difference.

Strong root collars still experienced a condition called wind throw because support from the lateral roots was diminished due to surrounding driveways, walks, streets or other factors diminishing a stable lateral root system. We saw the entire tree roots and all lift out of the ground and topple over.

Finally, most people do not think of pruning. Pruning can be a good thing in our personal lives. A setback can help us re-evaluate and reset to move forward. A tree, even a large established tree, benefits from pruning.

Some of the trees that went over in the storm had been neglected for years. Pruning of trees is a safety issue, a tree health issue and is also done for aesthetics. Winter is a great time for pruning of deciduous trees and strengthens and improves them for future growth.

Lessons can be learned from the storms of life. May the forest be with you.

Rick Vuyst is CEO of Flowerland, host of the Flowerland Show on NewsRadio WOOD 1300 and 106.9 FM as well as Mr. Green Thumb on WZZM TV 13.

Trees also teach us valuable lessons of diversity, perseverance and value.”

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November 2016

WomensLifeStyleKazoo.com

HOME SWEET HOME BUSINESS LOCATE YOUR FAVORITE PRODUCTS & SERVICES Kelley’s Cupcake & Cakery Made from scratch every time!

Kelley Kocher Owner

269.352.0218 Find us on Facebook kelleyscupcakecakery@outlook.com

DIRECT SALES Berta K Jones ID #0947 www.tastefullysimple.com/web/bejones (269) 267-6040 or simplybertak@aol.com

Lisa Johnson, (269) 270-6750 Independent Distributor lisajohnson00@yahoo.com

Cassie DeForest cassiedeforest.scentsy.us (269) 321-0637

Michelle Heffernan, Pampered Chef Consultant phone: (269) 649-4886 pamperedchef.biz/michelleheffernan

Dana Eisinger, Team Leader DanaEisinger@yahoo.com, (989) 245-6031 www.mywildtree.com/DanaEisinger

Tabatha Dunklee my.tupperware.com/tabathadunklee (269) 910-9690

Kendra & Ryan Schwartz (269) 816-2164 www.SchwartzWellness.com Jen Pence, (269) 217-5001 fb: LuLaRoe Jen Pence jen.lularoe@yahoo.com Jill Blanchett, (269) 649-0937 GreenThumbStampers.stampinup.net GreenThumbStampers@hotmail.com Julie Tiller, 31 Director (269) 501-5853 www.mythirtyone.com/julietiller

Soup

Creamy Sweet Potato & Wild Rice

RECIPE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY LAURENDA BENNETT

Greater Kalamazoo MAGAZINE | EXPO

T

his hearty and aromatic soup pairs perfectly with the cooler autumn weather. With a creamy coconut broth spiced with nutmeg, clove and ginger, this surprisingly vegan soup will satisfy all foodies alike. Serve alongside a salad for lunch, or with baked chicken for dinner to turn this soup into a nutritious, well-rounded meal.

Sweet Potato and Wild Rice Soup makes 6 servings

1 cup chopped celery

1 cup chopped white onion

3 cups cubed sweet potato (1/2 inch cubes) 1/2 cup uncooked wild rice 32 ounces veggie broth

1 can (15 ounces) unsweetened coconut milk

1 tablespoon coconut oil

2 large garlic cloves, minced 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger 1/2 teaspoon cumin

Teresa Essex, (269) 569-0557 teresaeckert67@gmail.com teresaessexhealth.isagenix.com HOME-BASED Eisinger Course Consulting Joel Eisinger, (517) 706-1011 www.eisingerconsulting.com Tanya DeLong, Quilting Specialist (269) 720-8686 tanyahdelong@gmail.com

1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper 1/2 teaspoon salt In a large saucepan, melt the coconut oil over medium heat. Add the chopped celery, onion, minced garlic, nutmeg, cayenne, cumin, and ginger, and saute for 5-8 minutes until veggies become slightly translucent.

Add the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to a simmer and add the uncooked wild rice.

Cover and let simmer for 10 minutes. Add the coconut milk, cubed sweet potato, and salt. Stir, cover, and continue to simmer for 35 minutes until the sweet potatoes are soft and rice is fluffy.

Laurenda resides in Rockford with her husband Daniel and their two sons. Laurenda is a health food writer for LaurendaMarie.com and a West Michigan lifestyle and portrait photographer.

November 2016

31

Calendar of Events

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

Please type Calendar in the subject line.

November 1 Retired Personnel Gathering WMU Fetzer Center. 11 am. Kalamazoo County Association of Retired School Personnel. The program will be - Underground Railroad - The Bonine House. For further information contact Mary Ann at 375-9693. maryann191@aol.com.

November 1 Education for the Arts, Employment and Early/Middle College Kalamazoo County Expo Center. 5 – 8 pm. One stop shopping for parents and students in grades 6-12; career exploration, high school and post-secondary opportunities. Admission is free. For more information contact Kathy Spackman at 269-250-9300. kathy.spackman@kresa. org www.kresa.org November 1 - 6 The Foreigner Gilmore Theatre Complex. Times vary. A wild comedy of mistaken identity and cultural confusion! When the pathologically shy Charlie is assumed to be a foreigner, non-stop hilarity ensues as he is told more secrets than he ever cared to know! $20, discounts for seniors/students. 269-3876222. http://wmutheatre.com November 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 ArtBreak Kalamazoo Institute of Arts. 12 pm. Explore several new artistic topics and films each week. Free. 269-349-7775. www.kiarts.org November 2 – 29 Phyllis Branch & Therese Dean Viewing Willow Lake Club Gallery Parkview Hills, 3707 Greenleaf Circle, Kalamazoo. 9 am – 6 pm daily. Reception on November 10th from 6 – 8 pm. Watercolors by Phyllis Branch and Therese Dean. Free. 269372-4444 November 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 Live Music Potter’s Lounge, Four Points by Sheraton, 5:30 - 8:30 pm. Free. www.pattiflemingmusic.com November 4, 11, 18 Live Music Potter’s Lounge, Four Points by Sheraton, 8 - 11 pm. Free. www.pattiflemingmusic.com November 5 6th Annual Vendor/Crafter Fundraiser Kalamazoo Missionary Church. 9 am – 3 pm. 22 plus participants, home based businesses and independent consultants bake sale sponsored by the ladies of the church. 269-501-7057.

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November 2016

November 5 19th Annual Christmas Boutique Arts & Crafts Show Kalamazoo County Expo Center. 9 am – 3 pm. Come and visit the unique & talented artisans and crafters from cities throughout the Midwest for an extravaganza day of shopping for gifts. Held in Expo South.

Free. 269-327-5373. treasuredcrafts@ comcast.net November 5 Kalamazoo Craft Beer Festival 2016 Wings Event Center. 1 – 6 pm. Wings Event Center and Townsquare Media present the third Kalamazoo Craft Beer Festival on Saturday, November 5th from 1:00pm to 6:00pm. Join us for a day of beer tasting, specialty tappings, food & beer pairing classes, keg curling, corn hole, and much more! $10 - $95. 269-3451125. info@wingseventcenter.com November 5 Ray Charles, Motown & Beyond!

Miller Auditorium. 8 pm. Ellis Hall, Ray Charles’ only formal protégé, joins us for an unforgettable evening of Ray Charles’ classics, Motown classics, and more.

Hear and meet the living legacy of “The Genius of Soul,” singing and playing the Hammond Organ. 269-349-7759. www. kalamazoosymphony.com November 5, 12, 19, 26 Kalamazoo Farmers Market 7 am. We accept many forms of currency, including Food Assistance benefits. 269359-6727. https://pcfmarkets.com November 10 ABWA Meeting TGIF on West Main. 11:30 am. American Business Womens Association Meeting.

Please call Marilyn at 269 323-0468 for reservations or e-mail marilyn4038@att.net.

November 11 – 12 Holiday Bazaar Ladies Library Association. Enjoy shopping for books, puzzles, jewelry and homemade items. The luncheon will feature soups, sandwiches and pies. And on Saturday, begin your morning with hot chocolate and cinnamon rolls before watching Kalamazoo’s Holiday Parade. 269-344-0158.

November 11 – 13 Rent: 20th Anniversary Tour Miller Auditorium. 8 pm. A re-imagining of Puccini’s La Bohème, RENT follows an unforgettable year in the lives of seven artists struggling to follow their dreams without selling out. With its inspiring message of joy and hope in the face of fear, this timeless celebration of friendship and creativity reminds us to measure our lives with the only thing that truly matters—love.

269-387-2309. www.millerauditorium.com November 12 KDIC – Teen Manners Matter Part I Workshop. Beacon Club, Portage.

1:00 – 2:30pm. Have a teen? Know a teen? (7th – 12th grades) Send them our way for an educational and fun time learning table manners & essential social soft skills. Pre-registration required. $45/ student. support@kellyduggan.com 269.873.1598 November 12 5th Annual Portage Northern Huskie Holiday Craft & Gift Show Portage Northern High School, in the Dog House. 1000 Idaho, Portage, MI 49024 10 am to 4 pm. Please join us for an amazing day of shopping with over 100 vendors from all across Michigan. The event features handcrafted items such as home décor wood signs, jewelry, soaps, doll clothes, wind chimes, pet furniture, lighted bottles and lots more. Find us on Facebook. Free. mydragonfly61@gmail.com November 12 Vintage Inspired 52530 N Main St, Mattawan. 10 am – 5 pm.

Help us celebrate one year in business, be the first to browse our holiday displays, and enjoy light refreshments! 269-668-9042 Vintageinspiredmattawan@gmail.com

November 10 The B-52s FireKeepers Casino Hotel. 8 – 10 pm. $49. 877-352-8777. www.firekeeperscasino.com/see/events

November 12 Integrative Breathwork Workshop Unwindings, 5466 Holiday Terrace, Kalamazoo 11/12: 2 pm - 5 pm. A musical meditation for insight, emotional healing, creativity & renewal. $40. Pre-registration is needed. 269-388-2988. www.

AdamczAssociates.com.

November 11 Arcadia Woodwind Quintet Richmond Auditorium. 8 pm. The Ladies’ Library will present the first of a four part series performed by the Arcadia Woodwind Quintet. Plan to attend and bring your family and friends to hear this talented group of musicians. $10 donation is suggested. Light refreshments will be served. 269-344-0158.

November 12 Learn to Curl Kalamazoo Curling Club and Wings Event Center. 5 – 7 pm. A Learn to Curl clinic is a great way for anyone, age 7 to 70, to get your first exposure to the sport. Each lesson is a 2-hour introduction and instructional session that teaches people the basics of curling. Participants learn physical play, rules, and strategy. $20. 423-829-1449. www.kalamazoocurlingclub.com

November 13 Kalamazoo Animal Rescue Fundraiser Gull Lake Country Club. 3 – 7 pm.

Kalamazoo Animal Rescue Dinner Auction Fundraiser. Tickets: Call Alicia at 269-5477277. www.pattiflemingmusic.com November 17 Holiday Cocktails W.K. Kellogg Manor House. 6:30 – 8:30 pm. Bring your friends for a fun and festive night. Attendees will learn how to make three holiday cocktails while enjoying scrumptious hor d’ oeuvres. Three festive cocktails will be prepared and sampled.

Recipes will be provided. $50.88. 269-6712400. conference@kbs.msu.edu November 17 – 19 Holiday Art Sale Kalamazoo County Expo Center, Expo South. Thurs. 5 – 8 pm, Fri. 9 am – 8 pm, Sat. 9 am – 4 pm. Holiday sale featuring fine quality art made by members of the Kalamazoo Valley Potters and Art Etc. Admission is free. For more information contact Anne Marie Forrest at 269-8730537. anne.forrest@wmich.edu www. kazooartsale.com November 18 Kalamazoo Food Truck Rally Water Street, Between Rose and Church.

10:30 pm – 1 am. We are back at it! Kalamazoo Food Truck Rally will include food trucks, booths, music, and networking. The event is designed as a pop-up event where people come and go as they celebrate downtown’s entertainment hot spots. Food Truck Rally is a proud official location of The Music Hop Kalamazoo! 269-388-2830. events@eventkalamazoo.com November 18 & 19 Integrative Breathwork Workshops Lord of Life Church, 9420 Portage Rd. Portage. 11/18: 7 pm - 9 pm. A musical meditation for insight, emotional healing, creativity & renewal. $30. 11/19: 10 am - 5 pm. $70. Pre-registration is needed for both workshops. 269-388-2988. www.

AdamczAssociates.com November 19 Vicksburg Project Graduation Arts & Craft Show Sunset Lake Elementary. 9 am – 3 pm. The 23rd annual event hosts over 80 vendors, Arts and Crafts Show. There will also be a bake sale, concessions, and face painting.

Free. projectgraduationcs@gmail.com November 19 Holiday Expo & Craft Show Kalamazoo County Expo Center. 9 am – 4 pm. Great holiday shopping with over 100 of your favorite vendors and crafters from across Michigan. Admission is Free. For more information contact Lorie Money at 269-903-5820 or email moneys7714@ sbcglobal.net, loriesevents.vpweb.com November 19 Loaves and Fishes Benefit Concert Trinity Lutheran Church, 504 S Westnedge Ave. 6 – 10 pm. Featuring an evening of top quality, acoustic music performances,

WomensLifeStyleKazoo.com

the focus of this event is to raise funds and food donations for needy families and individuals in the Kalamazoo County area.

Bluegrass, Classical, Country, Celtic, Folk music and more! Admission is by cash donation or by a gift of non-perishable food items. 269-209-0371. wmbogen@gmail. com www.kzoofolklife.org November 19 – 20 17th Annual Kick-Off Classic Synchronized Skating Competition Wings Event Center. Synchronized skating is a team sport in which 8-20 skaters perform a program together. It uses the same judging system as singles, pairs and dance and is characterized by teamwork, speed, intricate formations and challenging step sequences. $10 adults, children 5 and under free. 269-345-1125. http:// greaterkzooskate.org/kick-off-classic/ November 24 Turkey Trot Time Prediction 5K Run Portage West Middle School. 9 – 11 am.

This is a timed prediction run and awards are distributed to the top 25 based on the closest predicted to actual time. Awards will also be given to the overall male and female open and masters winners, as well as an award for best costume and largest donation. No watches or other devices that track time. $15. 269-929-4954. karturkeytrot.wordpress.com November 25 Tree Lighting Ceremony Bronson Park. 5 – 8 pm. The City of Kalamazoo’s Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony will again be held at Bronson Park, the heart of Kalamazoo. Mayor Hopewell, City Commissioners, City Manager Ritsema and Santa will all be at the event. Along with all the fun activities that will be going on around the park there will be food trucks and we will be having a food drive to support the local food pantries. Free.

269-337-8295. www.KzooParks.org November 25 – 26 Greensky Bluegrass Kalamazoo State Theatre. 7 – 11 pm.

Spend Thanksgiving weekend with Greensky Bluegrass! Find out why Rolling Stone claims that Greensky Bluegrass is – “Representing the genre for a whole new generation” this November! If you have yet to experience this high energy performance supported by top notch lighting and sound, now is the time! $27.50 one day, $50 two day. 269-345-6500. http://www. kazoostate.com/greenskybluegrass November 26 Mannheim Steamroller Christmas Miller Auditorium. 8 pm. This has been America’s favorite holiday tradition for the past 30 years! www.millerauditorium.com November 29 – 30 Sesame Street Live Wings Event Center. 6:30 pm. No matter where you’re from or where you’ve been, everyone is special - so join in! The Sesame Street friends welcome Chamki, Grover’s friend from India, to Sesame

Street. Together, they explore the universal fun of friendship and celebrate cultural similarities, from singing and dancing, to sharing cookies! $20 - $58. 269-345-1125. contactus@wingseventcenter.com December 1 Run Through the Lights Bronson Park. 6 – 7:30 pm. Gazelle Sports, Kalamazoo Area Runners and Kalamazoo Loaves & Fishes are proud to host Run Through the Lights. Join us for a festive fun run or walk through the holiday lights of downtown Kalamazoo! It is an untimed, non-competitive 2.4 mile run/walk and everyone is invited. $30 with shirt, $15 without shirt. 269-929-4954. http://gazellesports.com/wp/run-through-the-lights/ December 2 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. 269-3425059. www.kalamazooarts.com December 2 – 3 Greens Sale Kalamazoo Expo Center. 9 am to 7 pm Friday, 9 am to 2 pm Saturday.

Wreaths, Swags & Roping, Porch Pots, Fresh Green Centerpieces. Thousands of handmade items created by gifted Kalamazoo Garden Council Members. Join us for our 63rd year of serving Kalamazoo.

Free. president@kalamazoogardencouncil.org December 3 Annual Christmas Bazaar St Andrew Community Church. 3631 Covington Rd., Kalamazoo across from Wings Event Center. 9 am – 3 pm. Costume jewelry, baked goods and handcrafted items.

Lunch available. Please join us for some unique gift shopping. (269) 349-1173.

Medicine Tree COMPOUNDING PHARMACY

December 3 Sounds of the Season Miller Auditorium. 8 pm. Angel Blue, laureate of Placido Domingo’s international Operalia competition, lights up the holiday stage for our annual Sounds of the Season concert. Join us for this annual holiday tradition. Even Santa Claus will be here! 269-349-7759. www.kalamazoosymphony.com December 3 – 4 Christmas at Wings Art & Craft Show Wings Event Center. 9 am. Free. 269-3491185. www.eagletakeflight.com December 4 Mrs. Claus Tea W.K. Kellogg Manor House. 3 – 5 pm. Join us for a day of family fun when Mrs. Claus takes a day out of her busy schedule to have high tea at the Manor House. Tea also includes a program and guided tour.

Reservations are required. Recommended for children ages 3 and up. $32 adults, $16 children. 269-671-2400. conference@ kbs.msu.edu

Specializing in Bio-Identical Hormone Replacement Therapy for Women Hours Mon-Fri 8am-6pm | Sat 9am-1pm

269.668.6801

MedicineTreePharmacy.com 56109 Village Center Circle Mattawan, MI 49071

November 2016

33

Reader’s

A

s the weather cools down and leaves fall from the trees holiday gatherings with family and friends begin to fill your mind and busy your hands. The following books will help you to plan and enjoy your next holiday gathering or party.

SUGGESTIONS BROUGHT TO YOU BY GLORIA TILLER OF KAZOO BOOKS

Contrary Motion

by Andy Mozina

In this novel, we meet a man who, on the surface seems to have his life together. He is a harpist with a great opportunity in front of him. So why does he seem to constantly create the chaos that surrounds him and threatens his quiet existence living in Chicago? The people around him tug at his consciousness. His sexy girlfriend loses interest, his six year old daughter becomes a rebel and he begins to wonder where he belongs in the world. Told in first person, we follow him on this road to discovery and possible destruction. Andy is another local author who writes with clarity about the human condition.

Death in Cold Water, A Dave Cubiak Door County Mystery

by Patricia Skalka

Mothers, Tell Your Daughters

by Bonnie Jo Campbell

We live in a world of relationships and none are as volatile as daughters with their mothers.

This is a selection of stories that makes us cringe with emotion and heart ache, maybe for our own struggles, but certainly with the author’s characters that jump off the page into our laps. Bonnie Jo is a local author who writes about the insides of people, the part we are afraid to see and many of them live just around the corner from us.

The Untethered Soul, The Journey Beyond Yourself

by Michael A. Singer

Our spiritual journey takes many turns and sometimes the guidance from a good book can help sort out life. So much of life is consumed with outward stimulus including family and work. It’s hard to get past the voices inside our head that block us from listening to our needs and who we are. How do we learn to listen? Can we discover a freedom and peace to enhance our lives? This guide helps open the doors to a life of self-realization.

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November 2016

As our weather turns colder, it’s time to snuggle up with a good mystery novel. This is the 3rd title in the series that takes place in the Wisconsin tourist area of Door County. Dave has settled in after moving from Chicago, but as sheriff, he still feels out of place. When a famous millionaire in the area is kidnapped it becomes a rush to uncover the secrets that have been hidden for decades.

Kazoo Books is owned by Gloria Tiller. It features used and new titles.

The staff is experienced and can help you with suggestions. Come visit them at 2413 Parkview. There is plenty of parking in the back.

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live. work. play.

BUSINESS SERVICES

MacKenzies’ Café & Bakery

www.A1PrintingCopyCenter.com (269) 381-0093 ForensicFluids.com (269) 492-7700 HMScreening.com A Local Screening Service!

Kalamazoo (2 Locations) & Portage

Kalamazoo

MEDIA, MARKETING

3204 Stadium Dr

& TECHNOLOGY

Portage

425 W Milham Ave

Ad Shop, Etc.

Mattawan

(269) 207-0103

23870 City Centre Circle

www.GreatDealsMagazine.com (269) 321-0612

Jeffmurphymediator.com (269) 375-3200

www.WMUK.org

HEALTH, BEAUTY &

102.1 FM

WELLNESS

WomensLifeStyleKazoo.com

www.FacesSkin.com

(269) 569-1647

(269) 447-2297 NaturalHealthFoodCenter.com

Kalamazoo (west) · Downtown Kalamazoo · Portage

Bella Terra Equine Adventure

(269) 342-9459 Sawall Health Foods sawallhf.com

RECREATION

fb: DiscoveryShopKalamazoo (269) 345-0661

www.bellaterraacres.com Kalamazoo Nature Center naturecenter.org

Westside Medical Pharmacy

Kalamazoo Wings

(269) 375-1700

Kwings.com

HOME SERVICES WWW.HOPERANCHMI.ORG

RETAIL

(269) 760-2171

fb.com/DiscoveryShopKalamazoo (269) 345-0661

Jaqua Realtors – Audrey DeVault (269) 207-3411

Kazoo Books

Loedeman's Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning

kazoobooks.com

loedeman.com MigalaCarpetOne.com

12000 N US 131 Hwy, Schoolcraft Vandenbergfurniture.com

INSPIRATION TO INSTALLATION

Kalamazoo – Portage – Mattawan

RESTAURANTS

RomenceGardensonline.com

theAmplePantry.com

Comensolis.com

311 W. Kilgore, Kalamazoo Neighborhood Cleaners

HOSPITALITY/

(269) 375-8300

www.leesadventuresports.com

9660 Shaver Rd. Portage

Jeffmurphymediator.com (269) 375-3200

(269) 345-6755

V & A Bootery

vashoesfit.com

SHOES THAT FIT YOUR LIFE K A L A M A Z O O • P O R T A G E • G R A N D R A P I D S • S T. J O S E P H

vabootery.com Vandenberg Furniture

HendersonCastle.com (269) 344-1827

12000 N US 131 Hwy, Schoolcraft

LawtonRidgeWinery.com

VanderSalm’s Flower Shop & Garden

(269) 372-9463

(269) 342-0123

www.thepantryontap.com 7634 S. Westnedge, Portage

Greater Kalamazoo MAGAZINE | EXPO

Sawall Health Foods sawallhf.com

Wenke Greenhouses Corner of Sprinkle & Market - Comstock November 2016

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