Good News October 2023

Remember When

A Pizza Yen served up delicious pizza, hot baked sandwiches and subs, specialty hot dogs, homemade sloppy joe’s and more! Everyone who walked through the door was welcomed with a heartfelt greeting and treated like family.

When I worked at the Portage Gazette, I was a regular for lunch at A Pizza Yen. Their hot subs served on French bread toasted, oozing with mozzarella cheese and slathered with butter and mustard, kept me coming back for more! Pizza was a popular choice for families and a high school gathering place after the local football games. Many former patrons enjoyed their delicious coney, Chicago and kraut dogs.

Founder, Richard “Dick” Ertz, got his start in the food business working in the U.S. Army as a butcher and then running the officer’s club in France. After leaving the military he hit the road to sell food as a route driver for

Eckrich Meats, followed by Saluto Foods. Dick’s desire to spend more time with his family and his dream of opening a pizzeria was realized when A Pizza Yen opened on July 7, 1970 at 7635 South Westnedge Avenue in Portage.

As if the stress of opening day at A Pizza Yen wasn’t enough, Dick got a call from his neighbor alerting him to come home, that his garage was on fire. Thankfully, neighbors helped douse the flames with their garden houses while waiting for the fire department, which minimized the damage.

The small building that housed A

Pizza Yen was quaint with a handful of red booths with very tall backs that standing kids couldn’t see over, you could listen to the latest hits on the jukebox and entertained in the game room at the back while waiting for your food to be prepared.

In the beginning, the restaurant just served pizza, hot dogs and soft drinks. They were open for dinner after 4pm.

In the 1970’s when you had mostly local pizzerias as your friendly competition, Tubby’s and Pizza King, the menu stayed the same. As competition from National Chains were arriving in the late 70’s, they added sandwiches and subs to offer a larger variety of menu items created by ingredients on hand and influenced by their staff personal creations. Their biggest competitor, McDonald’s made the most noticeable difference in daily sales. Along with adding hours for lunch time, the restaurant became a more popular local stop for customers.

Former patrons of A Pizza Yen have shared many fond memories on the popular Vanished Kalamazoo website, which include: “Dick made the best subs I’ve ever had!“ “Wow, they had the BEST ham and cheese sandwiches....they would grill them on this wonderful bread and serve them hot with the cheese melting... YUM!” A must stop after Friday night Portage Central High School football games.” “Loved hanging out and playing the pinball machines.”

“My grandmas took out the front wall with her car!” “I miss a pizza yen and midnight movies.” “The best

chili dogs ever!” “I remember going to A Pizza Yen almost every day when I was in high school.” “They had good pizzas!” “They had the best Chicago and kraut dogs around. My sister and I never wanted to eat 2 hot dogs, so we would split 3 between us. It was always such a difficult decision.’

In 1980, Dick was approached with an opportunity to start a catering banquet hall facility, called The Windjammer, located on Romence Rd. in Portage (where Hiemstra Optical is presently located).

The catering business was moved into A Pizza Yen in 1993 and the name changed to Uncle Dick’s Picnics Catering and then changed once again to All Foods To-Go Catering.

Dick’s children, Michelle and Anthony grew up in the family business and eventually joined their dad in the restaurant and catering businesses. Both kids worked at the restaurant, Anthony starting with dishwashing at 10 years old and Michelle at 12 years old. Anthony ran A Pizza Yen while in college, while Michelle worked at A Pizza Yen and weekends at the Windjammer Banquet Hall. In his last semester of college, Anthony began his own venture, Eds Bread, distributing bread products for Chicago bakeries. Michelle was thrilled to take over operations at A Pizza Yen, to continue the family business. She was a junior in college at WMU at the time and changed her student status to part-time.

Michelle admired her dad’s entrepreneurial spirit. “He was great at finding opportunities and wasn’t afraid to take risks. Meeting new

people and learning their stories was one of his greatest strengths,” she said. Sadly, Dick passed away at the age of 86 on May 17, 2022.

Michelle also shared that her mom Christiane (Chris) worked in the corporate world at International Paper Company for 48 years, providing the family with the financial stability of insurance benefits and a constant paycheck. She also did the weekly bookkeeping for A Pizza Yen and was very supportive of her husband’s passion for entrepreneurial adventures.

In 2004, eminent domain proceedings began by the City of Portage, forcing A Pizza Yen to move to 1807 Vanderbuilt, where they continued with limited hours for A Pizza Yen dine-in and pick-up orders until December of 2021. Michelle has continued providing catering services from the same licensed commercial kitchen.

Michelle, with her bubbly personality, continues to operate All Foods To Go catering service where they provide breakfast, hot/cold lunch and dinner menus, grill menu items, desserts, and appetizers. They are proud to be celebrating 53 years in business in the Portage community.

For more information visit their website at allfoodstogo.com. Contact Michelle Ertz-Rosenbach for your next catering event – family reunions, weddings, graduations & more by phone 269-327-4449 or fill out a contact form on the website or email allgoodfoodstogo@gmail.com.

Jackie Merriam

The Next Couple of Weeks are the Best Time of Year to Improve Your Lawn

September is the ideal time for seeding grass in Michigan. Cooler temperatures and shorter day length will result in less time for soil drying, which will allow for quicker grass plant establishment. There are several steps to putting in a new lawn, but if you do it right, it will last a lifetime. If you choose the wrong seed or skimp on preparing the soil properly, you may need to start over again in the future. Stop in and visit with Wedel’s lawn professionals to get your personalized lawn improvement program.

1. Kill all old grass and broadleaf weeds with Killzall herbicide.

2. Determine the type of lawn you want, to select appropriate seed. Making sure you have the correct species and cultivar of seed is a critical step. One newer variety you may be interested in is Jaguar. Jaguar seed develops an extra-hardy & deep root system. You will benefit by seeing a lawn that needs less water.

3. Measure square footage of sun and/or shade areas.

4. Bring in a soil sample to Wedel’s for free pH testing and soil analysis.

5. Apply appropriate soil amendments.

 To improve clay soil: add gypsum, clay soil conditioner, and Dairy Doo Compost.

 To improve sandy soil: add sphagnum peat moss and Dairy Doo Compost.

6. Till soil to about 1-2 inches deep.

7. Rake to remove stones and debris.

8. Roll and rake level.

9. Apply Fertilome Lawn Starter Fertilizer, rake in 1-2 inches deep.

10. Sow seed.

11. Lightly rake in seed with back of leaf rake. DO NOT bury seed deep, any seed deeper than the width of the seed seldom grows.

12. Set seed by watering with hand held nozzle.

13. Cover new seed with EZ Mulch Seed Protector or EZ Straw

Happy October & Happy National Book Month!

Celebrating National Book Month is easy. Simply pick up some of your favorite books and make time to read them. Buy a new book, borrow one from your local library or visit your favorite book box for a free book.

As the weather gets cooler, it’s the perfect time to get a cozy blanket, your favorite hot drink, and curl up on the couch or in your favorite cozy chair with a good book.

Reading is a wonderful escape. I love getting lost in the pages of a good book. I have gotten into the habit of reading in

with Tack. Using EZ Straw will save you time and give you better results! It has a natural bonding agent that holds it together and protects grass seed from heavy washout and wind. Grass seed will also be protected from birds and other animals. Germination is faster, you won’t need to water as often. Because it biodegrades, there’s no mess to clean up, just leave in place after the seed grows.

14. Water frequently; DO NOT LET SEEDS DRY OUT! A light moistening 3-4 times a day is needed if seed mulch or straw is not used.

15. If straw other than EZ Straw was used, when seedlings are about 1 inch tall, remove straw. It takes about 10-12 days for Rye, 15-20 days for Fescue, and 20-30 days for Bluegrass.

16. Begin mowing 10 days after straw is removed. If using pellets or seed protector, mow based on the approximate dates above. Cut at the highest setting. Be sure to sharpen mower blades before first cutting. Frequent

bed at the end of the day -drifting off to some faraway places, which lately happens to be in the Amazon, the setting of my latest read, “State of Wonder” by Ann Patchett.

The purpose of National Book Month is to encourage reading that is proven to have many advantages. Reading can help build a better vocabulary, improve memory, increase knowledge and even decrease anxiety.

Crack open a book this month and celebrate the importance of reading, writing and literature.

Jackie Merriam

Graphic

mowing stimulates new grass plants to fill-in faster.

17. Apply Fertilome Lawn Food with Iron at ½ rate after 2nd mowing.

18. Apply Fertilome Lawn Food with Iron at ½ rate after 4th mowing.

19. Fertilome Weed Free Zone, Broadleaf Weed Control, may be used to spot treat weeds after 5 mowings. Be sure to irrigate lawn 24 hours before weed controls are applied.

20. Ask a Wedel’s lawn pro for a year-round lawn maintenance schedule.

21. Last but not least, Be Patient, grass takes a long time to establish itself. Sometimes depending on site, care and variety of seed, it takes up to 12-15 months before the grass completely fills in. Best wishes for your new lawn.

Terrie Schwartz

Wedel’s Nursery, Florist & Garden Center

Simplicity is the Ultimate Sophistication — da Vinci.

In the words of Ricky Ricardo of I Love Lucy fame, “AY-YI-YI-YI-YI!”  Where did this mountain of stuff we’ve accumulated come from?

My hub and I face the same problem many Boomers are facing... what to do with the huge pile of ‘stuff’ we’ve accumulated over the years? The problem is how to get myself to let most of it go. My excuse has been,  “I may need that ______ someday.”

Fill in the blank with anything you  like, such as elementary school report cards, dried-up oil paints, or  the 1989 electric bill. You have your own list of needful things, I’m sure. I was the “Give it to Ann, she’ll take anything” person in my family. In  July, I finally made a start at downsizing. I laid out piles labeled  toss, donate, recycle, and sell. I filled six big boxes, four of them  with antiques. Now what? I started looking for a non-profit garage sale  to donate it all to. All Creatures Deserving/Liz’s Wildlife Rescue is a  non-profit group of dedicated, bighearted people who rehabilitate small  wildlife in our area, and they planned to have a garage sale. When we  dropped off the boxes, I realized what a generous community we live in  because of so much great new and old donated stuff. It was a huge sale!  We returned after the sale to help pack the unsold items that All

Creatures Deserving donated to other non-profits who were waiting to  pick them up. I noticed about 80% of my antiques had been sold, and it  felt great to know my stuff did some good for my community and its  wildlife. I think I finally broke through the barrier to letting go of  stuff!

All Creatures Deserving is a nonprofit and was started six years ago by  Liz Osborne. This group rehabilitates small wildlife who’ve been  abandoned, wounded, or traumatized. They take in 600-800 small patients  a year and help many more over the phone, online, or with referrals to  other Michigan rehabbers. They are currently located in a small facility  and have vastly outgrown it. In the future, they are planning a  fundraiser to help them search for and purchase, or have donated to  them, a new property. They hope to find a place with enough room for a  building so they can spread out and take in larger animals to rehab. All  Creatures Deserving said their current property is in an area where loud  noises, such as those from fireworks, occur. They said that no matter  how much they try to protect the animals, loud noises panic animals and  they run into things, hurt themselves, attack each other, and have heart  attacks. This year they had some ani-

mal deaths from loud noises over the  holiday and many injuries. So you can see they definitely need a  different location.

When I thought about the good this organization does for all of us, I  felt great about finally letting go of our stuff. My hub is starting to  downsize his stuff too. Me: “Hey, Hon, how about letting go of that  dented old obsolete computer tower that no one wants? No? You might need it someday?” Oh, well. Maybe I should have encouraged him to start with the 1996 electric bill. That might have been easier for him to let go  of. Maybe.

How about you? Are you ready to start downsizing your mountain of stuff and doing something good with it? I’ve started to fill more boxes for  another non-profit’s sale. I’ll never miss that stuff. Well, maybe just  my old well-worn wallet with the big hole in it. “Can I keep just one  thing? Please? No?” Anyway, happy downsizing!

Ann Murray is an award-winning commercial illustrator and author. She has illustrated 8 children›s books and her stories have been in three published anthology books.

www.allcreaturesdeserving.org

Between the cities of Kalamazoo and South Haven, once ran the Kalamazoo & South Haven Railroad. Established in 1870, this rail line served an important role in Southwest Michigan’s industrial and agricultural growth and a link to Lake Michigan’s ports. However, as the 20th century unfolded, the need for rail transportation diminished and the railroad ceased operation in 1973.

Rather than letting the once busy railroad beds fall into disrepair and be lost to history, a local grassroots group of visionary citizens saw an opportunity to convert these old tracks into something new and exciting –recreational trails that would honor the past while providing countless benefits to the community.

Thus, was formed the Friends of the Kal-Haven Trail and through their efforts, the Kal Haven Trail was born, named after the two towns it once connected. The trail is now formally called the Kal-Haven Sesquicentennial State Park—the first such state park in Michigan.

The transformation of the aban-

Rails to Trails Preserving History and Nature

doned rail line into a recreational trail became a labor of love; local community members worked tirelessly to clear the tracks of overgrowth and repurpose the old rail stations into trailheads. This trail became a living monument to the rich history of the Kalamazoo & South Haven Railroad and a place for people to enjoy nature and explore their surroundings.

The decision to convert old railway beds into recreational trails was not just a nostalgic gesture; it also proved to be an intelligent and sustainable way to reuse the land. Railroad beds are ideal for this purpose due to their level and compacted surfaces, making them easy to traverse for hikers, cyclists, and horse riders alike. The gentle grades and wide paths ensure accessibility for people of all ages and abilities. Moreover, this conversion preserves the historical significance of the railroad while reducing the need for further development and the associated loss of natural habitats.

Speaking of habitat, the Kal Haven Trail and similar rail-to-trail projects have become sanctuaries for wild-

flowers, birds, insects, and other wildlife. The former railroad tracks, once dominated by clanking locomotives, has now become a haven for native plants and animals. The absence of noisy trains has allowed the return of peaceful natural sounds, and the native flora has flourished, creating vibrant ecosystems. Rare and endangered species, like the Karner Blue butterfly and Henslow’s Sparrow, have found a refuge along these trails, ensuring their preservation for generations to come.

The ecological significance of these habitats extends beyond the preservation of species. The natural corridors created by these trails allow for the movement of wildlife between fragmented landscapes, promoting genetic diversity and population sustainability. Additionally, the restoration of native plant species helps improve soil health and water quality, benefiting both the ecosystem and the surrounding communities.

The benefits of these recreational trails extend beyond ecological significance; they also have profound impacts on the health, social, and economic well-being of the communities along its 33.5-mile length.

From a health perspective, the trails provide opportunities for physical activity, promoting active lifestyles, and reducing the risk of chronic diseases. The peaceful and scenic surroundings also contribute to mental well-being, offering stress relief and a sense of tranquility.

On the social front, the Kal-Haven, and other trails, foster a sense of community and connection. Families, friends, and individuals come

together to enjoy the trail, sharing experiences and building bonds. Community events and gatherings are often organized around these trails, strengthening the social fabric of the area. What were once train stations, have become trailheads.

From an economic standpoint, railto-trail conversions have proven to be wise investments. They attract tourists and outdoor enthusiasts, boosting local businesses like restaurants, hotels, and outdoor/sporting goods shops. Property values along these trails often rise, further enhancing the economic growth of the region.

Thanks to the Kal Haven Trail, the legacy of the Kalamazoo & South Haven Railroad lives on in the form of a thriving recreational reserve. A testament to the power of preserving history while embracing nature’s wonders, this rail-to-trail conversion showcases the harmonious blend of community vision, ecological stewardship, and sustainable development.

With each step taken and pedal pushed, the Kal Haven Trail serves as a model for others to follow, showing that a brighter and more prosperous future can be built on the tracks of the past.

James D. Coppinger

September 2023

The T Top T op Ten en Adult Fiction and Nonfiction Chosen Monthly by America's Library Staff

e at w w w.Librar yReads.org

For book recommendations from your Kalamazoo Public Library Staff go to www.kpl.gov/blog/

P Perferfectlectly Nice Neighbors y Neighbors

Kia Abdullah (G.P. Putnam's Sons)

This domestic thriller is about the dynamic and ongoing battle between neighbors, giving readers a suspenseful and exciting conclusion that they won't see coming. The commentary about race and social media is relatable to the world we live in. The battle between these neighbors may make readers think twice about moving to the suburbs

—Tabrizia Jones, The New York Public Library, NY

NoveList read-alike: Our Best Intentions by

T The V he Vaster Wil aster Wilds: A No ds: A Novveel l Lauren Groff (Riverhead)

This stunningly haunting, lyrical novel is set in the New World settlement of Jamestown, when colonists established an outpost neighboring the Powhatan natives Disease, conflict, and drought loom, with death soon following. In this period known as the Starving Time, sadly resulting in cannibalism, a servant girl flees, traveling deep into the woods Escaping only with a few possessions, she eats what she can, desperate to survive

—KC Davis, LibraryReads Ambassador, CT

NoveList read-alike: Song for Almeyda and Song for Annino by Gayl Jones

T Things W hings We L e Left Behind eft Lucy Score (Bloom Books)

In this series entry, Sloane Walton, local librarian, and Lucian Rollins, DC power player mix as well as oil and water

When Sloane decides she's ready to settle down, Lucian insists on watching out for her. Can they get past their animosity and build a relationship? Lucian and Sloane are likable but flawed characters and readers will root for them to get their HEA.

—Shari Suarez, Genesee District Library, MI

NoveList read-alike: Meet Me at the Lake by Carly Fortune

Bonus pick:

T The September House: A No he House: Novveel l

Carissa Orlando (Berkley)

Margaret believes in following the rules

Four years after moving into a haunted Victorian, she knows how to avoid the dangerous ghosts. But her husband can’t take it anymore and leaves when the paranormal activity escalates to excessive levels. Now their estranged daughter—who s never been to the house—is coming to visit, and Margaret doesn’t know how to explain (much less keep her child safe from) the specters violent antics

—Lucy Lockley, St. Charles City-County Lib Dist, MO NoveList read-alike: How to Sell a Haunted House by Grady Hendrix

T The L he Long Game: A No ong Novveel l Elena Armas (Berkley)

Adalyn needs a hug, not that she'll ever admit it. Exiled to tiny Green Oak, North Carolina after a very public breakdown, she's forced to examine her life—and of course, falls in love along the way. Armas hits all the right emotional notes and the slow burn is delicious. Pick this one up if you like smalltown romance, love interests who actually talk to each other and female leads who can handle their stuff

—Amanda Baumann, JCL Northwest, MO

NoveList read-alike: Part of Your World by Abby Jimenez

Godkil Godkilller: A No er: Novveel l Hannah Kaner (Harper Voyager)

Three mortals and a minor god go on a quest and encounter a water spirit. Gripping from the first page, this fantasy novel explores this complex world with just the right amount of world-building and description. Highly recommended for fans of The Adventures of Amina Al-Sirafi by Chakraborty The Name of the Wind by Rothfuss and classic fantasy

—Tommy Buttaccio, The New York Public Library, NY

NoveList read-alike: The Witcher series by Andrezej Sapkowski

Hush Harbor: A No A Novveel l Anise Vance (Hanover Square Press)

When racism explodes and it feels like the world is on fire siblings Jeremiah and Nova decide to form a resistance group in an abandoned housing project. But differences about how to move forward divide the group, threatening to derail their work. The group must find a way forward without becoming like the enemy Thought-provoking and intense!

L Land of Milk and Hone and Milk Honey y C Pam Zhang (Riverhead) Notable Nonfiction:

T The Nob he Noblleman's Guide to eman's Guide Seducing a Scoundr a Scoundreel l

KJ Charles (Sourcebooks Casablanca)

Rufus is the new Earl of Oxney, much to the consternation of his uncle

But another possible claimant steps forward, Luke. As Rufus and Luke work together to get the estate organized, it becomes impossible for them to ignore their mutual attraction. This fun historical LGBTQ romance set 13 years after the first in the series is an ideal beach read.

—Nancy Eggert, Chicago Public Library, IL

NoveList read-alike: The Turner series by Cat Sebastian

T The he Unf Unfortunate Side Eff ortunate Effects ects of Heartbr Heartbreak and Magic: A eak and A No Novveel l Breanne Randall (Alcove Press)

A light, witchy novel where the relationships aren't just romantic—there are family issues for the main character to work through as well. The magic system is a favorite cozy trope—herbs and baking—and there are lots of tasty-sounding recipes to try throughout. Readers will look forward to more to come from Randall.

—Josephine Incolla-Moore, Frederick Cty Urbana Branch, MD

NoveList read-alike: The Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches by Sangu Mandanna

T The Museum of F he Museum Failurailures: es: A No Novveel l Thrity Umrigar (Algonqiun Books)

Remy Wadia is back in Bombay to adopt a child and to check in on his estranged mother but nothing is working out as planned. As necessary truths are finally shared, Remy is forced to rethink his entire life A beautifully written, heartwarming, and welcoming glimpse into the Parsi community and the complications of family

Of Time and T Time Turtlurtles: es: Mending the W Worlorld, She d, Shelll l b by Shatter y Shattered She ed Shelll l Sy Montgomery (Mariner Books)

Read-alikes provided by NoveList and the LibraryReads Community | Made in LibraryAware - www.libraryaware.com

Vibuti Jain

—Alicia Ahlvers, Henrico County Public Library NoveList read-alike: American War by Omar El Akkad

—Jessica Trotter, Capital Area District Libraries, MI NoveList read-alike: Sankofa by Chibundu Onuzo

VINTAGE

Happy day, Good News Paper-pals! Hoping this article finds you well and getting into the Fall vibe. Here come the shorter days, beautiful colors, and of course: cider and donuts. This is why we live here friends; the majesty of season change is something we should all be grateful to witness.

As the season change so do our routines: if you have kids, you well know- school starts again, summer lessons/activities end, fall lessons/ activities begin, and we begin the march toward the Holiday Season and New Year. We here at Vintage in the Zoo slow down as our regular Market event season winds down, take in the year of growth, gather the learnings we can, and continue planning for the company’s development. We might not have any large markets to attend but, the fun of shopping for items individualized to your tastes and passions doesn’t need to go into hibernation also! The world now lives online for those who want it, and with a new shopping app called “Whatnot” a space to view, interact, and shop for treasures you love is operated 24/7, 365 days a year.

Founded in December 2019, Whatnot is a livestreaming app for collectors to buy and sell things – on this marketplace you can find many thousands of verified sellers holding scheduled live sales, offering every-

thing from sports cards, comic books, action figures, Pokémon cards, pins, vintage clothing, sneakers and much more. On the app you can find and follow sellers that specialize in the items you love, then tune in to scheduled live sales where you can bid on items in real-time. If you are so lucky (or bold enough in bidding) to win an auction, the payment, shipping, and communication are all handled through the app directly with the seller. Whatnot vets all their sellers so you can buy with confidence and has seen tremendous growth since it launched.

Many of our Vintage in the Zoo Market vendors now also have seller accounts on Whatnot, and the passion you see at our events continues online as they hold livestreaming sales – we are 100% here for it. Speaking with Abigail Phillips, owner of the vintage shop “Golden Roller Skate” it seems clear that Whatnot is a sales lane that is here to stay. When asked about the app Abbie related “It’s an active online marketplace with always changing inventory and a lively crowd bidding on unique auction items in real time” and “Vintage clothing is a relatively new category to buy and sell from, and it’s really taking off” - with 200 sales made after opening her selling account on Whatnot only 6 weeks

ago, we tend to agree! This new arena has grown not only Golden Roller Skate’s sales opportunities, but also her sourcing opportunities as well: “I find myself with lots of contacts and resources to source inventory, and don’t have to pass up opportunities to source new items since I can sell relatively quickly and as often as I like on Whatnot. I schedule shows at my convenience.” She concluded when asked why people might want to consider downloading the Whatnot app “The price points are a bit lowered so it’s a great place for people with a passion for one-of-a-kind items to find things they love at reasonable prices.”

So, whether you shop our vendors live IRL at Vintage in the Zoo events, or check out their offerings in an online marketplace, we hope you support local and find the items that fit your fancy. Maybe give Whatnot

a try as the snow flies, and shopping events become harder to attend. If you do, check out Golden Roller Skate’s link here, for $10 credit toward your first purchase with any of the sellers on Whatnot: https://whatnot.com/invite/goldenrollerskate Happy Fall, all!! Be sure to also keep an eye out for Vintage in the Zoo Market announcements, coming very soon!!

Patrick Turner | VintageintheZoo.com

Tyler J. Stewart, Charles S. Ofstein, William B. Millard & Hannah M. Recknagel

Still Behind Our Baseball Team: The 1968 Detroit Tigers

By most standards, the year of 1968 was not a good one. It was the peak year of the war in Vietnam. We lost two American leaders by assassination, Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. and Sen. Robert F. Kennedy. The nation was mired in social turmoil including riots at colleges and at the Democratic National Convention in Chicago.

But for residents of Michigan, there was a notable exception: The Detroit Tigers. The “Bengals,” comprised largely of fan-favorite veterans, played exciting baseball all year, and in the World Series, overcame a 3-1 game deficit against the defending champion St. Louis Cardinals to win their first world championship since 1945. October 2023 marks the 55th anniversary of that remarkable world championship.

The ’68 Tigers were memorable in the context of the overall game in addition to that year’s national and world events. The previous season had ended on a heartbreaking note for the Tigers, who lost the American League pennant on the last day of the season. And during July of 1967, the city was devastated by riots, a dark period of civil unrest that resulted in the deaths of 43, injuries to 1,189 more, and the destruction of 400 buildings, some of which were never rebuilt or replaced. When the 1968 season began, Detroit was a city badly in need of healing.

In baseball, 1968 was “The Year of the Pitcher,” with the Cardinals’ Bob Gibson compiling an astoundingly low 1.12 Earned Run Average (ERA) and Luis Tiant posting a similarly unbelievable 1.60 ERA for the Cleveland Indians. Los Angeles Dodgers’ righthander Don Drysdale pitched 58 2/3 consecutive scoreless innings.

Fortunately, the Tigers had their own historic pitching weapon in 24-year-old Denny McLain, who won 31 games in 1968, the first

pitcher to win 30 or more games since 1934. Since then, only one pitcher has won as many as 27. When the World Series began on October 2, McLain’s arm seemed worn out and he only won one game (Game 6) in three starts. But their ace lefthander, Mickey Lolich, bested

the Cardinals throughout the series. Lolich won all three of his starts, including the deciding Game 7 on October 10th, earning him the Most Valuable Player award for the series. Lolich remains the last major league pitcher to earn three complete-game victories in the same World Series.

Some all-time Tiger greats were on that team, including Al Kaline, who scored the pennant-winning run and was exceptional in his only World Series. Outfielder Jim Northrup batted in the winning run in Game 7; he also hit five grand slams during the season including one in the World Series and two in consecutive at-bats in June. In order to allow Kaline, Northrup, and Detroit native Willie Horton all to play in the outfield during the World Series, Manager Mayo Smith asked outfielder Mickey Stanley, the Grand Rapids native and consensus “best athlete on the team,” to replace light-hitting Ray Oyler at shortstop. Stanley didn’t disappoint.

Rounding out the infield in 1968 were fan favorites “Stormin’ Norman” Cash at first base, Detroit native Bill Freehan at catcher (with Jim Price as his backup), leadoff man Dick McAuliffe with his unusual foot-inthe-bucket stance at second base, and Don “Coyote” Wert at third base. In addition to McLain and Lolich, the pitching staff included Earl Wilson, Joe Sparma, and reliever John Hiller. Many of the 1968 Tigers are gone now, but the joy they brought to fans remains.

Tony Ettwein

Photo Index

Photo courtesy Sports Illustrated

“The Maestro of the Mound,” pitcher Denny McLain high-kicks and deals on his way to 31 wins in 1968

Photo courtesy Detroit Free Press Page One of the Detroit Free Press the day after the Detroit Tigers won the World Series on October 10, 1968

Photo courtesy Associated Press Bill Freehan, Willie Horton, and Al Kaline greet Jim Northrup at the plate following Northrup’s grand slam in Game 6 of the ’68 World Series, October 9, 1968

be ART ful

tion of mine. You never know what you’ll find, but I guarantee, treasures await…so let’s get started!

Supplies needed: nail polish . tub/ bucket . white dessert plates . nail polish remover . cotton balls . paper towels . plastic gloves

Step 1: Working in a well ventilated area, you will need to fill a tub or bucket three quarters of the way with room temp water. Whatever container you use, please be aware that it will become stained with nail polish. Don’t forget to protect your work surface and wear plastic gloves.

remove the leftover polish. Pour out the old water and repeat the process again as many times as desired.

Step 3: Resist the urge to hand dry the plates. Set them on paper towels to dry naturally. If you wipe or blot them, the nail polish will come off and the marbling effect will be ruined. I recommend at least a 24 hour window of dry time. Flip over to the back side once dry and carefully clean off any access nail polish with a cotton ball and remover and ta-da they are done!

Here’s a fun fact! Did you know that nail polish originated in China over 5,000 years ago to showcase wealth and influence? It was made from a mixture of beeswax, egg whites, gelatin and vegetable dyes. However, it wouldn’t be until the 1920’s in America before it took on its modern day liquid form. The invention of glossy lacquer was designed to mimic the shine on automobiles and the first company to offer a clear liquid version was Cutex. Not long after, cosmetic company

Revlon would revolutionize the industry by introducing colored nail polish.

Did you also know that if you mix nail polish with water, you can create a marbling effect? Intrigued, I couldn’t wait to try out this technique for myself! Nail polish not only makes your nails look pretty, but can also alter simple dollar store merchandise into an ahhh-mazing marble transformation project. All of my supplies came from Dollar Tree, which is a favorite shopping destina-

Step 2: Slowly drizzle ribbons of each nail polish color you would like to use onto the surface of the water. Depending on the age of the nail polish and what kind you are using, it may float, spread, or sink. Glide the plate just under the surface of the water to capture the nail polish. Swiftly move the plate around and pull out of the water. The nail polish will cling onto the surface creating a remarkable marbled result. Before moving on to the next plate, skim the water with a paper towel to

I think these stunning decorative plates will be perfect propped up on a picture frame ledge in a grouping or attach a plate hanger and secure them on a wall for instant art. The cool thing about this is no one will even know you made them using nail polish…it’ll be our little secret! xo -Bridget

Email: bridgetfoxkzoo@gmail.com

Social: https://www.instagram.com/ bridgetfoxkzoo

Exceptional Heart Care

When it comes to your heart, you want the best. At Bronson, our teams are dedicated to quality and are skilled at coordinating medical and surgical services to meet each patient’s unique needs. When you choose one of our cardiologists or surgeons, you get the skill, compassion and fierce determination of all of us. That’s why Bronson Methodist Hospital is one of the 50 Top Cardiovascular Hospitals in the nation and the Bronson system is the top choice for heart care in southwest Michigan!

Learn more at bronsonhealth.com/heart

Love the trees until their leaves fall off, then encourage them to try again next year.

– Craig Sugg

Did you play Going on a Picnic as a child? I shouldn’t exclude adulthood; if memory serves me well, it was my childhood friend’s mother who taught us this memory game when we were on road trips. I’m going on a picnic and I’m going to bring an…apple. Then my friend would say I’m going on a picnic and I’m going to bring an apple and a… banana. Then I would determine something to bring starting with the letter “C”, while ensuring I also included any items of the alphabet already stated. We would take turns until we reached the letter “Z”.

In August I had the opportunity to go on a week-long backpacking adventure in the Olympic National

Park in Washington. Two friends and I hiked through the rain forest, up and down mountain switchbacks, and we even got an opportunity one of the days to sing Christmas carols rather loudly to not just one, nor two, but five different black bears who were focused on their gatherings for the season after Fall. After all, winter hibernation is best having stored up many a huckleberry in one’s system! (If you are asking why Christmas carols, it is the first thing we thought of to follow park ranger recommendations; be loud and shout if we encounter a bear.)

At a certain point of our adventure, during a couple of rather HOT temperature days hiking up what we tried to affectionately refer to as “stairsteps” – i.e., the steep mountain switchbacks – we began playing ABC

games to help divert our attention from our sweltering climb. We went on a picnic. We shared places we had been that began with each of the letters of the alphabet. And we played the ABCs of gratitude in the present moments of our hike.

A for ability. B for breathtaking views. And black bears (thankful not grizzlies!) C for cold river water.

D for distance traveled thus far. E. Electrolytes. F. Fairies (after all, we were walking through an enchanted forest!). Feet. G. Gaining (nearing the top). H. Horizons. I. Ice cream (would really taste good right now!).

J. Joyous adventure. K. Knees. L. Love. M. Moss. N. No phone service. O. Optimistic attitudes. P. Panoramic views. Q. Quiet and serene. R. Rest. (Yay break time!).

S. Staying safe. T. Trees (shade!). U.

Unchartered experience. V. Valleys W. Wildflowers. X. X-tra care on the steep paths. Y. Yoga (stretches). Z. Zigzagging (and not straight up this mountain!)

How about for you? If you pause for a few minutes while observing the maroon, orange, and yellow leaves. The squirrels frantically gather nuts. Apple and pumpkin signs beckoning here. And as you open that drawer to pull out one of the cozy sweatshirts that has been patiently waiting for its next season debut. What are your ABC words of gratitude?

A for…Autumn. B for…

Christine Hassing https://christinehassing.com

The Energizer Bunny at 90

Truth be told, I have no idea how old the Energizer Bunny is. But I do know that some 90-year-olds would be able to kick the bunny’s butt. I see it every day! Much of what we’ve learned about being active and thriving in our later years is relatively recent. According to the September 2023 issue of Consumer Reports, life expectancy is 26 years longer than it was in the 1950’s. A baby born today in the U.S. has a life expectancy of about 76 years. Someone who has reached 40 is projected to live to almost 79, and a person who reaches 60 is expected to live to 82. If you’re 80 now, chances are you could live to nearly 89. All this means there’s a good chance your later years will be richer than you might have thought years ago.

Of course, there’s a major difference in living a longer life and enjoying a longer life. Though some of our capabilities peak early, such as rapid information processing, other functions continue to improve. For example, our ability to produce creative work can grow throughout life. Some evidence even suggests that happiness has a U-shaped curve, high in young

adults before dropping to a low point around the late 40’s to early 50’s, then rising again.

(Let me take a moment to talk about happiness. While the concept often connotes joy, I believe the ancient Greeks had a better handle on what makes us happy. Aristotle used a word in many of his writings that translates into the English word “flourishing.” I can think of no better term to describe “happy” people in their later years.) While environment and genetics often play a role in our physical well-being as we age, there are three factors, apart from getting regular check-ups and vaccinations, that are very important to maintain our vitality. These are exercise, eating well, and getting enough sleep. There is also a fourth: robust social connections which are always found in areas renowned for having many super-agers. The strong social fabric is important because the network can show “people care.”

Fall is for FAMILY!

I’ve heard some people say they’re fated to a shorter life because genetics dealt them a bad hand. So the question is “Can you overcome ‘bad’ genes?” In many cases the answer is “yes.” Research shows that even if people in your family died at an early age from heart disease or developed early onset Alzheimer’s, it won’t necessarily happen to you.

For diseases where early detection can lead to earlier treatment, such as heart disease, breast cancer, or prostate cancer, knowing that you’re at an increased risk can point your doctors to biomarkers they can check for. It can also help you figure out your own efforts as you get older. Lifestyle steps can significantly reduce your risk for a number of diseases, including many that run in families, such as Al-

zheimer’s, heart disease, and various cancers. In some cases your genetic make-up may even help determine your treatment path and make you a good candidate for certain medical therapies.

Wherever you live and whatever life experience you’ve had or whatever your family history is, you can benefit from certain specific actions to shore up body systems that may falter as you grow older. And it’s never too early or too late to start.

Did I ever mention that being kind has been shown to be a benefit to our health?

Till next time,

Ken Dettloff ACE Personal and Brain Health Trainer

October is fondly known as ‘Walktober’ in communities across the country in recognition as the national month of walking. The U.S. Department of Transportation marks this month as National Pedestrian Safety Month to raise awareness of the importance of everyone feeling safe to walk or roll; and remind drivers of their responsibility to stay alert for pedestrians and cyclists, especially youth, seniors, and disabled road users.

This year the City of Kalamazoo is celebrating Walktober by working with resident groups this month to learn about how they walk around

their neighborhoods. In May, West Main Hill kicked off their neighborhood planning effort with the City of Kalamazoo, launching a series of Meet & Greet opportunities for residents to connect with city staff to discuss a range of topics from transportation to forestry. This October, residents will have a chance to participate in their own neighborhood walk audit that focuses on barriers for disabled pedestrians.

Douglas residents restarted their neighborhood association in 2022 to reignite community building efforts in their neighborhood. After recent successes working with residents to complete curb appeal projects in partnership with Building Blocks, the Association is looking get started with their neighborhood plan with conversations around non-motorized improvements for bicyclists and pedestrians. Plans for scheduling a neighborhood walk audit in Douglas is underway!

Within the last year, the City has partnered with Western Michigan University, Disability Network, and Global Ties Kalamazoo, to host similar events city-wide. Walk

Julianna’s Restaurant

audits are a quick and easy activity residents can do themselves or in groups to get to know their neighborhood even better. All one has to do is to pick a route and walk it with the goal of observing the conditions around them. Things to notice could include missing or damaged signage, street and sidewalk conditions, overgrown trees, inadequate lighting, down utility lines, litter, or blocked storm drains. Walk at different times of the day to see how your experience may change based on traffic, weather, and lighting.

Many of these concerns that come out of the walk audit can be reported

directly to the city through 3-1-1 or reaching out to the appropriate utility, like Consumers Energy via their outage map, streetlights.consumersenergy.com.

Everyone is a pedestrian! Whether you walk or roll to get to work or as a recreational activity. Spend this month getting to know your neighborhood from a different perspective and imagine ways to enhance the pedestrian experience for you and your family.

Jae Slaby, City of Kalamazoo Neighborhood Activator

Senior Menu

Meat & Eggs!

Senior Lunch Menu

1 egg, choice of bacon or sausage, hashbrowns, and 1/2 order of toast 4.99

Pancake & Eggs

I2 pancakes and 2 egg any style 4.99

111 Breakfast

1 egg, 1 meat choice of bacon or sausage and 1 pancake 4.99

Ham & Cheese Omelet

2 egg omelete with hash browns and 1/2 order of toast 6.99

1/2 Hot Roast Beef Sandwich

Served with potatoes and gravy 6.99

Burger & Fries

Topped with lettuce, tomato and mayo

Cranberry Walnut Chicken Salad

Chicken, walnuts, cranberries and apple slices served with raspberry vinaigrette

Fall for PEARS!

pear quinoa SALAD

Yield: 40 (5 ounce) Servings

1-#10 can Pacific Northwest Canned

Pear Dices, drained, reserve juice

1-1/2 pounds Dried cranberries

3 + 1/8 quarts Liquid (pear juice plus water)

6-1/4 tablespoons Olive oil

1 pound Yellow onions, diced

5 cloves Garlic, minced

3-1/4 pounds Quinoa

1-1/2 tablespoons Vegetable base

1 tablespoon Kosher salt

1 tablespoon Black pepper

2/3 cup White balsamic vinegar

8 ounces Feta cheese, crumbled

1-1/2 pounds Walnuts, toasted, chopped

18 ounces Romaine lettuce, rinsed and chopped

METHOD

1. Rinse quinoa well under cold running water and drain.

2. Drain pears, reserving juice. Measure out 1-1/2 cups liquid and add dried cranberries to plump; set aside. Once cranberries have plumped, drain before adding to salad.

3. Pour remaining pear juice into liquid measure, add enough water to reach 3 + 1/8 quarts; set aside.

4. In a 5-quart pan, heat oil over medium heat, add onions and cook until translucent.

FICTION/HUMOROUS/POLITICAL

5. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.

6. Add quinoa and toast the grains until fragrant and slightly browned.

7. Stir in the liquid and vegetable base and stir well.

8. Add salt and pepper. Reduce heat to a slow simmer and cover.

9. Once all liquid has been absorbed, remove quinoa from heat and allow to cool completely.

10. Gently stir romaine, walnuts, drained cranberries, diced pears, white balsamic vinegar and feta cheese into the room temperature quinoa. Toss to coat evenly, chill until serving time. Temperature should be approximately 41ºF at service.

NUTRITION INFORMATION

Calories 418

Sodium 290mg

Vitamin A 23% DV

Calories from Fat 26%

Carbohydrate 62g

Vitamin C 44% DV

Fat 17g

Dietary Fiber 6g

Calcium 8% DV

Saturated Fat 2g

Sugar 18g

Iron 16% DV

Cholesterol 5mg

Protein 9g

A rollicking tale of Washington lobbying that will have you in stitches and make you think twice about our government.

FICTION/HUMOROUS/POLITICAL

A rollicking tale of Washington lobbying that will have you in stitches and make you think twice about our government.

capital, A Feeding Frenzy in Washington is a hilarious look at the politicians, lobbyists, and assorted scalawags who work behind the scenes to create public policy. A laugh-filled work of fiction that exposes how Congress really works and a must-read for anyone who thought it couldn’t get any worse.

Filled with a cast of characters only found in our nation’s capital, A Feeding Frenzy in Washington is a hilarious look at the politicians, lobbyists, and assorted scalawags who work behind the scenes to create public policy. A laugh-filled work of fiction that exposes how Congress really works and a must-read for anyone who thought it couldn’t get any worse.

As a lawyer, lobbyist, and former Vice President of Worldwide Government Affairs for Kellogg Company, George has an insider’s perspective on how Washington works and doesn’t. He spent years in the halls of Congress as a major player on behalf of the food industry where he developed the anecdotes and saw firsthand the outrageous personalities parodied in his books.

GeorgeFranklinAuthor.com | @georgefranklinauthor

GeorgeFranklinAuthor.com | @georgefranklinauthor

As a lawyer, lobbyist, and former Vice President of Worldwide Government Affairs for Kellogg Company, George has an insider’s perspective on how Washington works and doesn’t. He spent years in the halls of Congress as a major player on behalf of the food industry where he developed the anecdotes and saw firsthand the outrageous personalities parodied in his books.

Filled with a cast of characters only found in our nation’s

FPA BOOKS

Laura Kurella is a nationally award-winning recipe developer and food columnist who enjoys sharing recipes from her Michigan kitchen. She welcomes comments at laurakurella@yahoo.com.

The acronym LGTBQIA2S+ stands for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer and Questioning, Intersex, Asexual, Two-Spirit, and other ways people self-identify. Many young people are concerned they will not be accepted for who they are, afraid their family or friends may stop loving them or have others judge them when deciding to come out.

It is crucial that your loved one feel they are supported. When feeling loved and supported, people feel more capable of sharing their innermost feelings and have a higher chance of resilience.

It is expected that parents have a variety of feelings and emotions when they discover their child is LGBTQIA2S+ (Miller, 2023). There are possible concerns that their child could be bullied at school or discriminated against at work, according to Miller, 2023. Some families may have reservations because of religious reasons (Miller, 2023). However, listening to your child, letting them see and hear you support them, and being empathetic is vital. It is imperative to show your child love and support. Suppose you are having distressing feelings about your child being LGBTQ+. In that case, it is important not to indicate those feelings to your child, but sharing them in support groups such as PFLAG, church, or a local therapist could assist you in learning ways to support your child (Miner, 2023).

Children need to know they can feel safe, honest, and heard when talking to their parents or caregivers; that is the best way to build a healthy relationship with your child. Children who do not feel supported may feel alone and less likely to seek deep and meaningful conversations with their parents. Keeping the lines of communication open will allow your child to feel safe sharing whatever they need to discuss. Saying “Thank you for telling me” or “Help me understand what

you are saying” can make your child feel heard and less likely to shut down when talking with you. Open communication means listening, being free of judgment, and validating your child (Miner, 2023). If your child comes out to you it is important not to minimize their feelings or try problem-solving, which can lead to your child feeling they made a mistake in sharing their feelings about their identity with you (Miner, 2023). Reassuring your child that you love them above all else is crucial to being a parent. The Child Mind Institute suggests using language like “I am glad we can discuss this because I want you always to feel safe and supported” or “Whatever decisions you are contemplating, I would like to help you make the best ones for you” (Child Mind Institute, 2023).

Safety is Key

You are your child’s best advocate. When you show that you are proud of your child’s identity and support them, it allows them to express themselves and be comfortable being who they are. Parents may feel concerned about how their child is treated at school and other areas in the community that may not welcome LGBTQ+ people. Teaching their child how to deal with potential hostility and bul-

lying and asking, “do you feel safe at school or in other places” This language offers children to let you know if they feel safe and supported or if there are potentially harsh environments in which they spend their time.

If your child attends school, become familiar with your child’s school policies. If you feel your child is not being supported at school, advocate for change or consider relocating to a more supportive environment (Miner,2023). The Trevor Project provides crisis intervention and suicide prevention for LGBTQ+ youth.

Telling Friends and Family

Adolescence is a difficult time for children. It is a time when they are trying to discover themselves and find their independence. It is also a time that many people come out as it is a time to discover themselves. Coming out can be a relief but sometimes painful (Miner, 2023). Children often worry about how other people will respond, especially the essential people in their Life. As a parent, you need to listen to whom your child wants to share with and what they want to share and respect them. After your child talks with people, check in to see how they feel about coming out to

friends or family. The key is to listen and allow active communication with eye contact and paraphrases, never assume you know what they are feeling without asking them. According to Minor, 2023, children commonly share their gender identity with their friends and trusted adults before sharing it with their parents. It is essential not to be angry or upset with your child for telling others first; remember it may have been hard for them to express their feelings, and they need to feel supported first and foremost (Minor, 2023).

Minor shares the reason children may be apprehensive about sharing their identity with parents first is:

• Parents have control over things like housing, money, and transportation and may worry they could be removed.

• They could be concerned about their parent›s expectations of whom they think their parents want them to become.

• Their friends may be more accepting and supportive.

Together we can make a difference. Remember, you are your child›s most prominent advocate, supporter, and fan. It is up to you to make them feel safe, loved, heard, and accepted.

For additional information, this link will provide resources https://www. cdc.gov/lgbthealth/youth-resources. htm

Dr. Julie Sorenson, DMFT, MA, LPC

References

LGBTQ+ Youth Resources, 2023, Center For Disease Control and Prevention

Miner, C, 2023 How To Support LGBTQ+ Children, When kids are coming out, what do they need from parents Child Mind Institute

parenting Teaching Your Child that it’s Okay to Make Mistakes

Many parents want to create a safe haven for their children and protect them from anything and everything. Keeping your children safe is essential for parents, but sometimes it is teaching children that they can’t make mistakes, and if they do, their parents will take care of the mess. The desire to protect your child from mistakes leaves little room for children to learn from their mistakes. Mistakes should be looked at as growth opportunities.

Today, some parents feel the need to raise rock star children. They have high expectations for their children in sports, arts, academics, or other areas. These expectations make children feel they can’t make a mistake and they need to be perfect. Many parents are helicopter parents or over parent, leaving little room for children to find out who they are by making mistakes

and learning how they can grow from the mistakes they make. Watching your child succeed can be fantastic, but what is the cost to children if they don’t think they can make a mistake? Parents go to great lengths to ensure their child doesn’t fail. Putting their child in the best lessons and overscheduling them in areas where parents want to see them flourish could be taking the enjoyment and drive away from their child.

When children don’t learn that making mistakes is okay, it takes away their power and decision-making skills. They may feel helpless and avoid taking risks or trying new things. Making a mistake and failing at things allow children to:

• Become resilient.

• Be motivated.

• Learn how to make good deci-

sions for themselves after making a bad one or two.

• Helps children find themselves.

• Learn patience.

• Overcome challenges.

• Face frustrations

• Pursue their own goals. Teaching your child that mistakes are a part of learning will allow them less need to feel perfect. It also takes pressure off getting the perfect test score and hopefully decreases anxiety related to the stress of getting everything right. Children who feel the need to be perfect often feel forced thoughts of “What if I make a mistake? What if I don’t get the perfect test score? What if I’m not the best on the team? What if I am not the first chair in band?” These thoughts can be a painful and never-ending loop of emotions, sometimes leading to

depression, anxiety, substance abuse, or eating disorders. The need to feel perfect can stifle creativity. When children feel that making mistakes is okay, it can increase their self-esteem and decrease anxiety. It allows them to take risks and be comfortable in their skin. Mistakes enable children to grow. Parents’ can guide them to understand and explain the difference between mistakes and lifealtering mistakes, setting them up for success in their times of failures. Teach your child ways to learn from the mistakes they make and how to navigate through the mistakes. Youth is a time to explore and to make mistakes that can teach valuable life lessons.

Dr. Julie Sorenson, DMFT, MA, LPC

An Ageless Game: Why Golf Is a Sport for All

Golf is often referred to as the “ageless game,” a sport that transcends generations and offers something unique to people of all ages. From kids taking their first swings to seasoned veterans with decades of experience, golf has a universal appeal that goes beyond physical prowess. Let’s discuss the reasons why golf is indeed a sport for all ages, highlighting how its inclusive nature, mental challenges, and low-impact characteristics make it a lifelong pursuit.

1. Physical Accessibility

One of the most compelling reasons why golf is suitable for all ages is its accessibility. Unlike some sports that demand peak physical condition or swift reflexes, golf places less strain on the body. This low-impact nature

allows individuals of varying fitness levels to partake without causing undue stress on joints and muscles. Grandparents can tee off with their grandchildren, and parents can enjoy rounds with their kids, fostering a sense of togetherness that few sports can replicate.

2. Lifetime Learning

Golf is a complex game that requires continuous learning and improvement. Players of all ages find themselves perfecting their swings, reading the course, and mastering various shots. This lifelong learning aspect not only keeps the mind engaged but also serves as a powerful motivator for individuals to stay active and involved. Whether you’re a teenager honing your skills or a retiree exploring new techniques, the pursuit of mastery is a driving force that transcends age.

3. Mental Challenge

Beyond its physical demands, golf presents a unique mental challenge that draws individuals of all ages. The intricacies of club selection, reading the greens, and strategizing shots require thoughtful decision-making and focus. The mental exercise involved in golf can be especially appealing to older adults, as it stimulates cognitive functions and helps maintain sharpness. Younger players, on the other hand, benefit from developing patience, discipline, and

strategic thinking—skills that extend well beyond the golf course.

4. Social Interaction

Golf is renowned for its social aspect, offering a platform for individuals to connect, communicate, and forge new friendships. Multi-generational groups can be seen enjoying rounds together, sharing experiences and stories as they walk down the fairways. The golf course becomes a space where age differences become irrelevant, and shared passions bind people together. This social engagement is especially valuable for older adults, as it helps combat feelings of isolation and fosters a sense of belonging.

5. Health and Well-Being

Golf’s physical benefits are not limited to any particular age group. While it might not provide the same intense workout as some sports, the act of walking several miles during a round of golf contributes to cardiovascular health. Additionally, the mental and emotional well-being that comes from spending time outdoors, surrounded by nature, cannot be understated. For older players, the gentle exercise of golf can be a vital component of a healthy lifestyle. Golf truly lives up to its reputation as an “ageless game,” appealing to individuals of all ages for a number of reasons. Its inclusive nature, mental challenges, low-impact characteristics, and opportunities for social

interaction make it a sport that brings people together across generations. Whether you’re a teenager looking to learn valuable life skills or a senior seeking a way to stay active and engaged, golf offers a timeless pursuit that transcends age barriers. So, whether you’re stepping onto the fairway for the first time or the thousandth time, remember that golf is a sport that welcomes you, no matter where you are on your life journey.

Nikki Hackworth Director of Marketing – The Dome Sports Center / Next Level Performance www.DomeSportsCenter.com

Few milestones in our lives mark our memories more than moving to a new home. As my daughter’s family sold their house (in one day!) and, after three tries (it’s a competitive market out there!), had an offer accepted on what may well be their “forever home,” I considered all the moves I have made in my own life. More than 30 different addresses over my life span. In 2012, however, I finally let down roots in my own “forever home” on a country parcel of ten gorgeous acres. I am here to stay. Lessons learned. Before moving into a new home, the new homeowner should consider a list of recommendations. If you are moving into new construction, some of these can fall off your list—but if you are moving into an older home that has had a previous owner or owners, it is a good idea to make a to-do list.

• Use the move to declutter and eliminate unwanted items from

your previous home. All those boxes in your attic, basement, garage, storage shed—are they worth moving? If these items haven’t been used in a year or two, consider donations or the trash bin.

• Do a walkthrough of your new home before moving in. Have all the repairs negotiated during the purchase been done? If any items were in your contract to be left behind for you, are they present? Are any warranties and maintenance guides for the home available? Is everything in the home in working order?

• Find those fuse boxes and electric panels in your new home as well as the water shut off valve. Call your utility and energy company to switch service—to be turned off in your previous home and switched to your account in your new home. You will want the

lights to turn on, the furnace to work, the garage door to open, and the water to run when you move in. And you don’t want to have to pay the bill for the previous owner.

• Do a thorough cleaning of your new home if it’s not new construction, top to bottom. Include refrigerators, ovens, garbage disposals, all appliances. You may also want a carpet and duct cleaning done. If changing paint colors, get your painting done before move-in day.

• Check filters to see if they may need to be replaced. Air conditioners and furnaces may need new filters. Septic tanks may need to be cleaned. Ensure smoke alarms have fresh batteries.

• Have your mailing address changed so that you don’t miss mail. Submit your address change to the post office and go through

all your accounts to make sure your address is updated. Let all your friends know as well as your workplace.

• Change locks. You don’t want anyone else out there to have access to your home.

Now comes the fun part. Unpack those boxes and arrange that furniture. While packing up the old home can get tedious, unpacking and finding new places for your belongings can be great fun as you make your new space yours. When done, take time to wave to your new neighbors, introduce yourselves, maybe even throw a welcome party. Explore your new community, sign up for a library card, pick out new favorites for all your family needs—grocery stores, health clinics, vet offices, and so on. Have fun! You are home at last.

Zinta Aistars

Cleaning for a Reason—that’s the essence behind the non-profit with that name. To provide free house cleaning services to cancer patients, Cleaning for a Reason partners with a North American network of more than 1,200 cleaning companies, including local Kalamazoo-based business, Jeannie Cleaning.

From October 18-24, Jeannie Cleaning of Kalamazoo will host its 4th Annual Cleaning for Cancer Week to bring much needed awareness to important services of Cleaning for a Reason. The week will culminate with the #PINKOUT for a Reason fundraising celebration featuring the live music of The Iconix.

Since 2017 in partnership with the nonprofit, Jeannie Cleaning has supported over 65 cancer patients with a donated value of over $15,000 in free cleanings. Owner Jeannie Henderson was also recognized on April 7, 2022 at Cleaning for a Reason’s first annual Gala in Dallas, TX receiving the Top 3 Partner Award for the number of patients served and the Triple Star Award for her contributions in service, fundraising, and spreading awareness of the program.

Pictured left to right: Jeannie Henderson, Mike Weintz, Megan Duncan, and Debbie Sardone, founder of Cleaning for a Reason.

“Our mission at Jeannie Cleaning is to ‘Make Lives Better’ and one of the ways that we do this is through our partnership with Cleaning for a Reason,” said Henderson.

“Cancer treatment makes it exhausting for patients to do the things they usually do. A free home cleaning visit helps the patient and their loved ones focus on the things that matter most… rest, healing, and precious time together. Our entire team feels very blessed to be able to serve cancer families in their time of need.”

Cleaning for Cancer Week is October 18-24. Jeannie Cleaning will clean for cancer patients all week. The week will culminate with a fundraising celebration, #PINKOUT for a Reason, featuring the live music of The Iconix. Anyone can help by nominating a patient or donating to further the cause at https://jeanniecleaning.com/ cleaning-for-a-reason/.

Said Debbie Sardone, founder of Cleaning for a Reason, “During and well after the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s critical to keep cancer patients’ homes clean, safe, and healthy, as their immune systems and strength may be compromised. Cleaning for a Reason Week is a great way to give back to cancer patients and do what the cleaning industry does best—clean!”

For more information on how to

support the cause, go to https://jeanniecleaning.com/ cleaning-for-areason/

About Jean nie Cleaning

Jeannie Cleaning is locally owned and operated by Jeannie and Terry Henderson, who have both been long-time philanthropists in Kalamazoo. It is their personal and professional mission to make lives better through all that they do. To learn more, visit JeannieCleaning. com.

Jeannie Cleaning is also a member of ARCSI/ISSA, the residential arm of the international cleaning association. Jeannie Henderson serves as the Chairperson of the ISSA Residential Cleaning Council.

About Cleaning for a Reason

Cleaning for a Reason partners with more than 1,200 residential cleaners throughout the United States and Canada to offer free house cleaning to any household battling cancer. Since

2006, the nonprofit and its partners have donated more than $15.2 million in services, helping more than 45,000 cancer patients. In 2017, Cleaning for a Reason was adopted by ISSA Charities, the charitable arm of ISSA, The Worldwide Cleaning Industry Association. To learn more about Cleaning for a Reason and to apply for free house cleaning, see https:// cleaningforareason.org/

Trick or Trash or Treasure?

Writing this, it’s just a few days after Labor Day weekend, and autumn is making her presence known. Leaves are already beginning to fall, and the pool is too cold for a leisurely float – darn it! Crisp mornings give way to warm, sunny afternoons, though. To use a new slang term I just learned, it’s “swacket” weather. Sweater or jacket? You get to choose!

The squirrels are wildly scampering from tree to tree, chasing each other and gathering food for the long winter tuck-in. My wildflowers are going to seed, inviting a crowd of sparrows, cardinals, and even a few hummingbirds.

Of course, retailers are the first to jump into any seasonal change. Before school supplies were tucked into backpacks, it was time to get out the Halloween candy and spooky decorations. My friends will tell you (correctly) that Halloween is my least favorite holiday. It’s sweet to see the littlest ones out gathering treats from close neighbors, but after that, I’d prefer it to be over. Alas, my opinion is in the minority, but I was recently reminded of an enterprise that I hope will become a widespread tradition for those partaking in the festivities.

In 2022, an estimated 600 million pounds of candy (!) was pur-

chased during the Halloween season. Even for someone with a sweet tooth, that seems like a tremendous amount of sugar and chocolate. These treats have several downsides – cavities, empty calories, and tighter clothes. For me, the real victim (as always) is the environment. The plastic wrappers from treats are not recyclable through usual waste pickup facilities. Because each of those tasty morsels is wrapped, individually for safety purposes, in plastic made from various polymer resins, the familiar triangular recycling symbols cannot be applied since the material is not purely one type.

Enter the «hero» of this month›s column. Rubicon is a software company, started in 2008, that partners with refuse haulers, recyclers, and transportation systems to promote sustainability by creating networks that support what they term a «circular economy» that can reuse and recycle materials in cost-effective ways to keep products that can be repurposed out of landfills.

In 2019, Rubicon launched «Trick or Trash,» an effort to divert candy wrappers from landfills. The company provided recycling boxes to community partners (retailers, schools, churches, etc.) that would receive empty wrappers after the holiday and send them back, postage-paid, for re-

purposing. Now entering its fifth year, the program is small, but interest is growing. The initiative has collaborated with Mars, Inc. (maker of M&Ms, Snickers, and many other candy and snack items) to promote sustainability. Additionally, they have partnered with the National Wildlife Federation to support its education program, teaching us to be more mindful of how we deal with the waste we generate from casual food choices.

When boxes are received back at the Rubicon facility, they are directed to a processor that certifies that all materials will be repurposed. None of the waste will be sent to a landfill. Most plastic wrappers are made into pellets that are used to fill dog beds, which are then donated to shelters for homeless animals. Paper and aluminum materials are traditionally recycled. What happens to any candy still in the wrappers? Good question! It is composted!

I›ve been emailing Katie Kinnear, Rubicon›s Director of Engagement Strategy, regarding this year›s campaign. Due to high interest in the project, the program is relaunching with a new name – «Trash or Treasure.» The mission has expanded to include support in efforts to reduce waste throughout the year, not just

during the Halloween season. The plan now includes a Valentine›s Day campaign and other «sweet» holidays. A new, expanded website is just launching. Katie assured me it would not be too late to request materials when this article reaches readers in late September and early October. She suggests that interested individuals and organizations sign up for their newsletter ( https://rubicon. com/trash-or-treasure/ ) to receive notification when boxes are available to order, free of charge. Please consider requesting a recycling box and spreading the word about this worthwhile initiative. I plan to promote it at my church, but it would be a hit at schools, daycare facilities, and community centers as well.

Nothing would make me happier than to hear from Katie that southwest Michigan’s response to the program was phenomenal! It might even make me feel better about the pound or two I›ll put on from the Trick or Treat goodies I keep for myself!

Cheryl Hach Retired Science Teacher Kalamazoo Area

FREE october Events

Museum to Host March 6 virtual

Through October 15

Exhibit: Explore Your World Explore land, sea & space

Kalamazoo Valley Museum

Through December, 2023

Exhibit: Wonder Media: Ask The Questions, KVCC Museum

Through January 7

Exhibit: Splat! The Buzz About Fly Swatters, KVCC Museum

Sundays, Oct. 1,8,15,22,29

Portage Farmers Market 9am-1pm, 7900 S. Westnedge

Sundays, Oct. 1,8,15,22,29

Open Mic Night, 7-11pm Valhalla/Norse Nectar Meadery

Mondays, October 2,9,16,23,30 Parchment Update Interviews Parchmentlibrary.org

Mondays, October 2,9,23,30

Family Storytime 10 --10:30am Vicksburg Library

Mondays, October 2,9,12,30

Team Trivia at Old Burdick’s Wings West, Kalamazoo, 7-9pm

Tuesdays, October 3, 10

Kalamazoo Farmer’s Market 8am-1pm, 1204 Bank St.

Tuesday, October 3 Kalamazoo County Senior Expo 9am-3pm, Kalamazoo Expo Ctr.

Tuesday, October 3

Dessert with Discussion: Genetic Rescue to the Rescue, 6:30pm W.K Kellogg Biological Station

Tuesdays, October 3,10,17,24,31

Theme Trivia Tuesdays, 7-9pm Revel and Roll West, Register: (269) 488-3800

Tuesday, October 3

WMU Jazz Lab Band, 7:30pm Dalton Center Recital Hall

Wednesdays, Oct. 4, 18

Mugs & Hugs, 10-10:45am Vicksburg Library

Wednesdays, October 4,11,18,25

Final Goofery Comedy Night 8-10pm, Final Gravity Kal.

Thursdays, October 4, 12

Kalamazoo Farmers Market 1204 Bank St., 8am-1pm

Thurs., Oct. 5 & Mon. Oct. 9

Adult Book Club: Firekeeper’s Daughter by Angeline Boulley 10/5-9:30-10:30am, 10/9 –5:30-6:30pm, Vicksburg Library

Thursday, October 5

Open Mic Hosted by Lackback Easy, Dormouse Theatre, 7-9pm

Thursdays, October 5,12,19,26

Trivia Night, 7pm, Gull Lake Distilling Company, Galesburg

Thursdays, October 5,12,19,26

Euchre Tournament, 7-10pm, Final Gravity Brewing

Friday, October 6 Historic Walk: Architects in Kalamazoo, 8am, meet at Gazelle Sports

Friday, October 6 Memory Café for people w/mild Dementia & their care partners 10:30am-Noon, Paw Paw Library

Friday, October 6 State on the Street: The Battle For Kalamazoo, 5:30-8:30pm State Theatre, Dwtn. Kalamazoo

Fridays, Oct. 6,13,20,27 Trivia Fridays, 7-8:30pm Valhalla Horse Nectar Meadery

Friday, October 6

WMU Guest Artiist Recital : Nois Saxophone Quartet, 7 :30pm Dalton Center Recital Hall

Saturdays, Oct. 7,14,21,28 Kalamazoo Farmers Market 7am-2pm, 1204 Bank St.

Saturday, October 7 Library Garage Sale, 9am-Noon Parchment Library

Sunday, October 8 2nd Sundays Live! Concert: Norse Code, 2pm, Parchment Library

Sunday, October 8

WMU Symphonic Band & Wind Symphony, 3pm, Miller Auditorium

Monday, October 9

Parchment Book Group: The Healing of Natalie Curtis by Jane Kirkpatrick, 6pm, Parchment Library

Monday, October 9

WMU Master Class: James Box, Trombone, 7pm, Dalton Center

Tuesday, October 10 Talk: How the Teatro Olimpico and the Drottningholm Slottsteater Perform their Pasts, 12-1pm Kalamazoo Institute of Arts

Tuesday, October 10 Parchment City Commission Candidate Forum, 6:30pm Parchment Library

Tuesday, October 10

WMU Faculty Recital: Marja Kerney & Friends, 7:30pm, Dalton Center

Wednesday, October 11

Bird & Coffee Chat: movements & Population dynamics of Great Lakes Mallards, 10am on Zoom, Register: kbs.msu.edu, Kellogg Bird Sanctuary

Wednesday, October 11

Project Connect of Kalamazoo County Noon-3pm, Kalamazoo Expo Center

Wed., Oct. 11, 25, Fri. Oct. 13

Teen Book Club: Firekeeper’s Daughter by Angeline Boulley. 10/11 & 10/25:2:45- 3:45pm, 10/13: 1-2pm

Wednesday, October 11

RCL Film Club: Wait Until Dark 6pm, Richland Library

Wednesday, October 11

Evening Writers’ Motivational Group, set goals, brainstorms, etc. 6:30-7:30pm, Vicksburg Library

Thursday, October 12

Artist Reception: Leah Meyer 6-7pm, Richland Library

Thursday, October 12

Heartbreak Book Club: The Dead Romantics, by Ashley Poston 6:30-7:30pm, Paw Paw Library

Thursday, October 12

WMU Guest Artist Recital: Jesse Cook, Trumpet, 1pm Dalton Lecture Hall

Saturday, October 14

Your Story! Public Media Network, 10am-Noon, Make a Video, Epic Center, Kalamazoo

Saturday, October 14

Fall Rockhound Festival, 10am6pm, Rockhound Rock Shop in,Galesburg

Saturday, October 14

Internet Users Group, 10am-Noon Bring your devices & questions! 10am-Noon, Paw Paw Library

Saturday, October 14

Art Detectives: Gustavo the Shy Ghost, 10:30am-Noon, Kalamazoo Institute of Arts

Saturday, October 14

Geek Fest! (Comic Con),11am3pm, Kalamazoo Expo Center

Saturday, October 14

Annular Eclipse Watch Party 11:30am-2:30pm, Parchment Library

Saturday, October 14

Mallmart + Zoo Flea - Vintage & Handmade Marketplace, Water St., Kalamazoo, 12-7pm

Saturday, October 14

Artist Gallery Opening: Pamela Lyles, 2-6pm, Vicksburg Library

Sunday, October 15

WMU International Festival, 2-6pm, Miller Auditorium

Sunday, October 15

WMU Choral Showcase, 3pm Dalton Center Recital Hall

Monday, October 16

Youth STEAM event, 11am-Noon Vicksburg Library

Monday, October 16

WMU Master Class: Josh Hart, Bassoon, 1pm, Dalton Center – Room.1120

Tuesday, October 17

Introducing Leslie Donaldson, Director of the Kirk Newman Art School, 12-1pm, Kalamazoo Institute of Arts

Tuesday, October 17

Mystery Book Club-SJ Bennett Series: The Windsor Knot, 6:30pm, Parchment Library

Wednesday, October 18

Book Discussion: Nothing Special 12-1pm, Kalamazoo Institute of Arts

Wednesday, October 18

Meet the Author: Ron Rademacher Author of Oddities & Rarities of MI 6pm, Richland Library

Thurs., Oct. 19 – Sun., Oct. 22 Hot Tub & Swim Spa Sale, 10/19:12-7,10/20:11-7, 10/21:11-4 Kalamazoo County Expo Center

Friday, October 20

Historic Walk: Mountain Home Cemetery, 8am, Meet on W. Main St.

Sat., Oct. 21 – Sun. Oct. 22

Arts & Eats: A Backroads tour of Art, Food and Farms, artsandeats.org

Monday, October 23

WMU “The President’s Own” U.S. Marine Band, Miller Auditorium

Tuesday, October 24

Engaging with Modern Dance, 12-1pm, Kalamazoo Institute of Arts

Tuesday October 24

Lego Club, 5:30-6:30pm Vicksburg Library

Wednesday, October 25

Euchre Tournament, Crafted Copper, Kal,, 6pm, Register 250-5054

Wednesday, October 25 Trivia Night, 6:30-7:30pm Richland Library, Register 629-9085

Thursday, October 26 Book Club: Demon Copperhead by Barbara Kingsolver, 6-7pm Richland Library

Thursday, October 26

Between the Lines Book Club: Everyone Knows Your Mother is a Witch, by Rivka Galchen, 6:30-7:30pm, Paw Paw Library

Thursday, October 26

WMU Studio Recital: Student Composers I, Dalton Center Recital Hall, 7:30pm

Friday, October 27

Spooktacular Trunk or Treat at Tapper Chevy, games, prizes, more!, 6--8pm, Paw Paw Library

Saturday, October 28

EPS Foam Recycling, 10am-1pm Mayors Riverfront Park & KVCC Oshtemo Campus

Saturday, October 28

Day of the Dead/Dia de Los Muertos, 4-8pm Native Aztec celebration, Kalamazoo County Expo Center

Tuesday, October 31

Witches, Devils, Goblins and Other Images of Halloween, 12-1pm, Kalamazoo Institute of Arts