Good News January 2024

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January 2024

GOOD NEWS

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January 2024

Wedding & Party Planning Feature Inside!

Cover Recipes On Page 16 & 17 7

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January 2024

Remember When Oakland Pharmacy – Where Good Friends Meet!

The Oakland Pharmacy was a popular neighborhood pharmacy, soda fountain, market, and lunch counter for the community, especially local college students and faculty.

Local pharmacist and proprietor, Donald Strickland, along with his partner and pharmacy manager, Edward F. Crabb opened the Oakland Pharmacy in 1926. Crabb handled most of the daily operations at the pharmacy and Strickland was a silent partner in the venture Although the doors opened in May 1926, they delayed the formal grand opening until September 30, 1926 once the students returned to campus. Friday evening was set aside for Kalamazoo College students and faculty and Saturday evening was for WMU (named at the time Western State Normal School) students and faculty.

The pharmacy lunch counter became a popular lunch spot where you could grab a ham, peanut butter, corned beef or American cheese sandwich for a dime and coffee for just a nickel.

Located in the iconic triangleshaped building located at the corner of West Michigan Ave. and Academy St. (773 W. Michigan), it was close to both K-College and WMU campuses.

Oakland Pharmacy was the first of many businesses over the years to occupy the space designed by Howard Fields Young, prominent, Kalamazoo architect. The English Tudor style design is warm and inviting, which is attributed to Young’s predominately residential work.

The building was designed with space for four separate businesses, originally 135, 131, 129, and 127 Oakland Drive, which later changed to 769, 767, 765 and 763 West Michigan Avenue. Another entrance faced Academy Street. (742 Academy St.).

The pharmacy occupied the main section of the building (two sections), a market occupied the center section, and a barber shop was located in the

small back area.

On a cold and blustery day (February 26, 1935) during a busy lunch hour, a furnace fire erupted and extensive damage was done to the building. Twenty-five customers, mostly students, and eight employees evacuated safely. Damage was estimated at $40,000, which was a significant amount of money at that time.

The building was quickly repaired by using Kalamazoo laborers and Kalamazoo products whenever possible.

The pharmacy opened again just 3 months later, on Saturday, May 18, 1935, and the newly renovated Oakland Pharmacy celebrated its formal grand re-opening. Don Strickland, Ed Crabb, and the eight other members of their staff welcomed customers back to the store.

In the late 1930’s, with the Great Depression in the rear-view mirror, Oakland Pharmacy, affectionately nicknamed “The Pharm,” was back in action. Crabb created special “Pharm Phriends” certificates for his loyal customers, and awarded them honorary degrees in “Pharmology” once the necessary “courses” had been completed. Diplomas were dutifully signed by Mr. Crabb himself, and certified by the president, “I. Sippa Coke,” and the secretary, “Gimme A. Candibar.”

Strickland married in 1939 and sold his interest in the Pharmacy. He continued working as a pharmacist in Kalamazoo. Crabb continued as sole proprietor of the Oakland Pharmacy and worked alongside the Upjohn Company research department on pharmaceutical supplies.

The interior of the building was once again remodeled and modernized in 1946. Life magazine selected the store for a promotional campaign featuring nationally advertised products. Newspaper advertisements of the time highlighted many of the store’s products and services; from cosmetics to prescriptions, magazines, fountain pens, vitamins, and last-minute gifts. The lunch counter had been discontinued by this time,

GOOD NEWS

although the soda fountain service would remain a popular feature until 1959.

Former patrons shared their fond memories on the popular Vanished Kalamazoo website: I so wish we could go back to these simpler times.”

“I worked there in 1958 as a stock boy and have always loved the building!” “Before the various other pharmacies around town-Oakland was the main one.” “When we moved to Kalamazoo, we had never had a pharmacist come out from behind the counter to advise you on if you should be taking that drug or not. I cannot think of his name, but he was one-of-a-kind, sure do miss Oakland Pharmacy!” “It was my home away from home - I used to go spend all my money there, as a kid! Good memories!!”

In 1961, Ed Crabb retired and sold his pharmacy business and building to John W. Spicer, a Belding, Michigan native and a Ferris State College graduate, who continued to operate Oakland Pharmacy for another sixteen years. After a half-century of operation, Oakland Pharmacy was finally closed in February 1977.

“In its heyday, no one around could touch it for service or beauty.”

—John Spicer, Kalamazoo Gazette, February 24, 1977 The relevancy of the slogan, “Where good friends meet,” remained intact in that space for several years. Stay tuned to next month’s feature on Boogie Records that made the space their home for over two decades. The building is presently vacant and available for lease.

Jackie Merriam On a side note: Young’s architectural style received national recognition. His residential designs include eight Kalamazoo College faculty homes along Monroe Street, in addition to distinctive residences at 2003 Oakland Drive, 2705 Clovelly Road, 1805 Indiana Street, 1221 & 1225 Howard Street.

A home in the prominent Orchard Hills, 1130 Short Road was built for Dorothy Upjohn by her father in 1928, shortly after her marriage.

Young also designed several notable buildings in Marshall.

References: Kalamazoo Public Library History Room files, Kalamazoo Gazette – 9/29/26, 2/26/1935, 5/17/35, 2/24/77, Life Magazine 1946

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January 2024

GOOD NEWS

Houseplants to Brighten Up Your Winter

Here’s a great way to brighten your winter days: grow these beautiful houseplants!

We have 3 easy-care choices highlighted here that will add beauty and color to your indoor landscape.

ing season (while the plant is not blooming) to encourage blooms

Norfolk Pine (Star pine, Polynesian Pine)

Christmas cactus are not like other desert cactus that require large amounts of light, and perform the best in bright indirect light Fun Facts: • Despite being a cactus, this plant calls the tropical rainforests of Brazil its home • Christmas cactus are what are called “epiphytic”, meaning that they grow on other plants, usually the crevices and bark of large trees • Blooming is triggered on Thanksgiving and Christmas from longer and cooler nights, and the blooming typically lasts for 4-6 weeks Plus, they’re very easy to care for: • Water this plant when the soil feels dry to the touch. They can tolerate some drought, but do not handle soggy conditions well, especially during the winter months • Feed with a Shultz Blooming Plant Food once a month during the grow-

Norfolk pines will struggle without bright indirect light. If outside in the warmer months, place somewhere ideally with morning sun.

Fun Facts: • Norfolk pines are endemic to Norfolk Island off the coast of Australia, meaning that they do not naturally grow anywhere else in the world.

• The mature height for a wild Norfolk pine can reach up to 200 feet tall, and their trunks can be as much as 10 feet wide!

• Despite being a “pine”, Norfolk pines are tropical trees, and cannot survive temperatures below freezing.

Care: • Norfolk pines prefer moist soil, but do not tolerate being wet for too long. Give this plant a deep watering whenever the first inch or two of the soil feels dry.

• Norfolk pines can be kept outside until nighttime temperatures reach below 50 degrees.

• Fertilize in the spring and summer months once a month with Schultz

“January opens the box of the year and brings out days that are bright and clear.”

Leland B. Jacobs, Columbia Professor Emeritus (1907-1992) The month of January literally kicks off

with a big bang when the clock strikes midnight announcing the New Year. The month of January was named after Janus, the Roman god of new beginnings, for his ability to turn one face to reflect upon the past and yet another face pointed towards the future. January is a symbol for new beginnings and looking ahead towards our goals.

Those born in January, it is believed, have leadership qualities and a charming personality. They usually have multiple skills and are able to make friends easily because of their sense of humor, which make those born in January stand out.

Being a January baby, I find this quite interesting and worthy of sharing, ha!

January in Michigan is on average the coldest month of the year (the second month of winter). The cold weather

Christmas Cactus

Plant Food

Amaryllis Bulbs

Amaryllis need lots of light—6 hours is ideal. Without adequate light, the flower stalks will stretch to reach light, making them leggy and weak. Use grow lights if natural light isn’t available.

Amaryllis can give you many years of enjoyment if you follow these tips: • Choose a container about an inch wider and deeper than the amaryllis bulb. Make sure the container has a drainage hole.

• Fill the pot about half full using Fertilome potting mix that will promote drainage. Amaryllis bulbs can rot if they sit in soggy soil.

• Place the bulb in the pot on top of the soil, adding more soil around the sides of the bulb. Leave the top third

of the bulb exposed above the soil line.

• *Water the bulb after planting. Don’t water it again until you see signs of growth, and then water sparingly.

• Once flower stalks form buds, begin watering as needed. Check the top two inches of soil. If dry, it’s time to water.

• When the flower finishes blooming, cut off the spent flowers, but keep the green stem and additional buds. Do not remove the leaves.

Amaryllis Picture & Article from the National Garden Bureau Christmas Cactus & Norfolk Pine article by Jackson Distelrath, Wedel’s Houseplant Expert

makes it a perfect month to celebrate the following national observances: Hot Tea Day ( Jan. 12), created in 2016 by the Tea Council of the USA to promote consumption of tea for better health. In addition, January is declared as the “unofficial” National Soup Month and is one of America’s favorite comfort foods. National Oatmeal Month also fall in January. We buy more oats in January than any other month of the year. Oats are among the healthiest grains on earth and are naturally gluten free.

Start the new year off right by setting your sights on new beginning for 2024.

Happy New Year!

Jackie Merriam

Cover Photo courtesty of Laura Kurella

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January 2024

GOOD NEWS

be ART ful

The art of weaving is recognized as one of the oldest surviving crafts in the world. Dating back 12,000 years ago to Neolithic times and I am only just now discovering my love for it!

What took me so long?

My beARTful confession to you; more often than not, I teach these monthly ideas to myself first before sharing with you. Sometimes I am successful and sometimes I am not.

For this tutorial, my original idea was to make a mini cardboard weaving that should have been a beautiful necklace. When that didn’t work, I tried a straw weaving method that I thought would make a fun bracelet.

To my dismay, it was equally unsuccessful. So I paused and then remembered that this is January…the first month of a brand new year. Taking a deep breath, I gave myself permission to begin again and trust the process of creativity. I might go back to the necklace and bracelet idea in the future, but those failures helped guide me in the right direction that would lead me to circle weaving. I absolutely love it and my intuition tells me that you will too, so let’s get started!

Supplies needed: embroidery hoop . yarn . scissors . warp thread Bonus: by using materials I already had at home, this enjoyable and

calming experience became cost free.

Step 1. Remove the outer ring of the embroidery hoop and set it aside. Tie your warp thread, which is just strong cotton yarn, to the inner hoop with a knot and leave a tail. Keeping the tension, pull the thread straight across the hoop, wrap around and bring back up (anywhere from a half inch to an inch) on the side of the knot. Create a figure 8 pattern with the over/ under process all the way around.

When you get back to the beginning, the embroidery hoop will look like the spokes on a bicycle wheel. Tie off the thread with the original tail. Take a shorter piece of thread and wrap it around the middle several times in various directions and tie off. This will help define the starting point.

Replace the outer hoop and secure tightly.

Step 2. Choose your various yarns.

I had several yarn scraps in different colors, textures and sizes. Pick a yarn, start in the center and begin weaving by using the over and under method between the spokes with your fingers.

Leave a tail at both ends of all the yarns in the back and keep weaving and adding additional yarns until the spokes are filled in. Tie off all the

loose ends on the backside and trim.

As we begin 2024, let’s really give ourselves the freedom to be a beginner at trying something new. Always remember that it’s ok if an idea doesn’t work out. Art is the process of discovery through experimentation, failure, growth and success. Happy

New Year to you all and happy art making! xo - Bridget Email: bridgetfoxkzoo@gmail.com Social: https://www.instagram.com/ bridgetfoxkzoo

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January 2024

GOOD NEWS

2024 Solar Eclipse A View from Kalamazoo

In the new year, we know of one amazing event that will take place on April 8, 2024, reaching maximum at 3:10 p.m. That afternoon, Kalamazoo will experience a deep partial solar eclipse and, weather permitting, experience the grandeur of our solar system and universe.

A solar eclipse occurs when the moon is perfectly aligned between earth and the sun and the moon’s disk completely blocks the sun – casting a dark shadow across earth’s surface. At the moment of totality, only the sun’s outer atmosphere is visible as a glowing ring of light called the corona. This is the precise moment many people travel the world to witness.

The path of this eclipse’s “totality” (100%) will not be directly over Kalamazoo but slightly to our south and east as it arches from central Mexico to Newfoundland and Labrador—crossing over Indianapolis and Cleveland. So, from our vantage point, the eclipse will actually be 95.99% of total.

The path of total eclipse is relatively narrow; for April’s eclipse, “totality” will be a swath 120 miles wide.

The farther away from the center

of that path, the percentage of total decreases—about 96% of total for our area.

For months, if not more, enthusiasts and dedicated umbraphiles (and people who follow eclipses) and those wanting to experience a total solar eclipse for the first time, have been booking hotel rooms along its path.

Whether you plan to travel to see the eclipse or observe from our area, one local organization has dedicated its efforts and resources to help enhance your eclipse experience – it’s the Kalamazoo Astronomical Society founded in 1936.

The Kalamazoo Astronomical Society offers monthly meetings encompassing all aspects of astronomy as well as topical presentations, workshops, events, and outings.

KAS president, Richard Bell, says, “Anyone interested in astronomy or space exploration is welcome to become a member of the Kalamazoo Astronomical Society, the oldest and largest group of its kind in Michigan.

All of our activities are free and most are open to the general public. Just visit our website (www.kasonline.org) to see what’s coming up.”

In addition, KAS provides members and the community year-round opportunities for people to get involved in astronomy.

Since 1998, the KAS has operated Owl Observatory, located on the grounds of the Kalamazoo Nature Center. It is a specially-built structure with a retractable roof which exposes the 16-inch telescope inside to the entire night sky for viewing.

From April through October (weather permitting), KAS offers free public observing sessions at the site.

It is a marvelous opportunity to see the moon and planets up close as well as gaze at other stars and galaxies within our visible universe.

During the winter months from November through February, when standing in frigid night air would be unbearable, KAS provides an alternate viewing option. KAS remotely operates a telescope situated in an isolated desert location in Arizona.

Members and the public are welcome to connect via computer, smart phone, or tablet as KAS transmits live deep-sky images. These viewing sessions are also free to the public and at the end of each session, attendees may download images to share with family and friends.

For this year’s eclipse, thanks to a grant by the Irving S. Gilmore Foundation, the KAS is offering a series of presentations and workshops to cul-

tivate a broader understanding about solar eclipses (and our solar system) and to enhance the experience observing this rare celestial event.

The first part of KAS’s program is the Eclipse Series – a series of eight presentations by world-renowned experts (many of whom have witnessed dozens of eclipses around the globe) coming to Kalamazoo to share their knowledge. These take place at the Area Math & Science Center and also livestreamed on Zoom. For details and information visit KAS’s website www.kasonline.org.

The second phase of KAS’s public education program is the Community Eclipse Presentations series held at libraries and community centers throughout West Michigan. Again, dates and locations are listed on the KAS website.

And, as if those efforts were not enough, KAS is offering a free, fivepart lecture series titled Introduction to Amateur Astronomy. This series is only offered online via Zoom. Past offerings of this series drew more

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that 1,100 participants from around the world.

Finally, a word of caution, looking directly into the sun risks serious eye damage. Sunglasses or homemade devices will not protect eyes from potential permanent damage. To protect vision, the only safe way to look directly at the sun is to use special solar eclipse glasses or viewing devices.

KAS can help you find and purchase NASA approved eclipse glasses.

KAS Eclipse Shades are available for purchase at all KAS activities leading up to the eclipse or for purchase on the club’s web website (while supplies last) at https://www.kasonline.org/ skyshop.html Yes, the upcoming solar eclipse on April 8, 2024 is a rare opportunity for people of Kalamazoo and nearby communities to witness the grandeur of the cosmos. But, if you miss the April 8 eclipse, you’ll have to wait another twenty-one years to witness the next eclipse on August 12, 2045.

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January 2024

GOOD NEWS Raiders of the L Lost ost Hear Heartt Jo Segura (Berkley)

December 2023

Dr. Corrie’s professional dream has come true: she’s been invited on an archaeological dig to uncover an Aztec mystery. But there’s one big catch. Her longtime rival, Dr. Ford, is the lead on the expedition. As they become better acquainted, their animosity transforms into an undeniable attraction—that is, until the truth behind Ford's motivations comes to light. Will they be able to find their happily ever after?

This thrilling and steamy debut will appeal to fans of adventurous romances.

The Top T Ten en Adult Fiction and Nonfiction Chosen Monthly by America's Library Staff For book recommendations from Find out more at www.LibraryReads.org your Kalamazoo Public Library Staff go to www.kpl.gov/blog/

—Migdalia Jimenez, Chicago Public Library, IL NoveList read-alike: Do Your Worst by Rosie Danan

The Coup Couplle in the Photo Helen Cooper (G.P. Putnam's Sons)

The Curse of P Penryth enryth Hal Halll Jess Armstrong (Minotaur Books)

The F Fak ake e Mate Lana Ferguson (Berkley)

Lucy's perfect life crumbles when she sees a photo of her best friend on a romantic vacation with someone who isn't his wife. When she tells her husband, he tells her she must be mistaken and to leave it alone. Soon, the woman Lucy saw in the photo is found dead, making Lucy wonder if it's all in her head or if her husband is keeping something from her. Readers will be sucked into this well-written, fast-paced, twisty tale.

Unconventional American heiress Ruby is living in Exeter, where she runs a bookstore.

Sent to deliver a box of rare and dangerous books, she ends up getting involved in a murder, an ancient curse, and the possibility that witches really do exist. The story is revealed slowly, giving readers a chance to guess the who and why. The possibility of the supernatural lingers like fog along the Cornish coast: with a view that's sometimes clear and other times, otherworldly.

This paranormal rom-com follows two wolf shifters living in the human world, navigating the immense amount of shifter stereotypes to survive in the cutthroat world of medicine.

Ferguson takes an interesting approach, creating a world where shifters are known—and for the most part, accepted—in society. Mack and Noah circle each other through the novel, fighting the pull of nature and attempting to navigate a relationship that is both fake and real.

—Sarrah Knight, Newton Public Library, IA NoveList read-alike: Just the Nicest Couple by Mary Kubica

—Janet Makoujy, New City Library, NY NoveList read-alike: The Cherry Robbers by Sarai Walker

—Zoe Sucu, East Kingston Public Library, NH NoveList read-alike: Not the Witch You Wed by April Asher

Famil amilia: ia: A No Nov vel Lauren E. Rico (Kensington)

On the Plus Side: A No Nov vel Jenny L. Howe (St. Martin's Griffin)

The Other Mothers Katherine Faulkner (Gallery Books)

Gabby takes a DNA test and finds out she has a sister in Puerto Rico, and Isabella is convinced Gabby is her lost sister. The mystery of finding out what really happened, while switching between different perspectives and the rich characters, will keep readers intrigued. Puerto Rico in all its complexity is just as much a character. This is a great book club pick that explores what family and sisterhood means.

Everly has been chosen for a makeover show and is given the opportunity to see where she can go with her art and marketing skills, both of which she hides under a bushel. As she begins to grow and shine, she and the cameraman start falling for each other.

Unfortunately, the show and Everly both become victims of sabotage. Can Everly and the show remain on the plus side?

Choose your friends wisely!

Tasha needs to jump start her journalism career, so when a nanny turns up dead in a neighboring community, she begins to investigate.

She enrolls her son in school and becomes friendly with the other mothers. Exploring class and motherhood, this clever, twisty plot alternates between the nanny's past and Tasha’s present narration of events.

This Spe Spellls L Lo ove Kate Robb (Dial Press)

Two mothers—one Black, one white–form an uneasy relationship when their daughters become friends at their "progressive" private school. A must-read for those wanting contemporary fiction that addresses important issues but maintains a brisk plot and relatable characters. Book clubs looking for something both funny and compelling should definitely consider this one.

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A law firm focusing on estate planning, estate settlement, and the transfer of wealth.

Perf erfect ect LIttl LIttle eL Liv ives es Amber and Danielle Brown Bonus pick:

An inspirational narrative of unconditional love and healed grief

(Graydon House)

The V Vacation acation John Marrs (Hanover Square Press) As the reader explores the distance between unlikable and likable, each character reveals that they are not who they seem to be. When they intersect at a run-down hostel, these travelers—whether killers or caretakers—drive this fastpaced narrative in which each viewpoint is well fleshed out.

F

— Jessica C. Williams, Cleveland Public Library, OH NoveList read-alike: The Good Part by Sophie Cousens

l

—Jennifer Schultz, Fauquier County Public Library, VA NoveList read-alike: Such a Fun Age by Kiley Reid

Gemma just broke up with her ex, so her aunt, sister, and best friend Dax help her perform a love cleanse. Suddenly, she wakes up in another timeline where Dax doesn’t know who she is! Though now she has her own store, she wants to get back to her own reality. Or can she have Dax here as something more than a friend? Readers of Lana Harper's Witches of Thistle Grove series will love this.

NoveList read-alike: Mother of All Secrets by Kathleen Willet

l

Rebecca, Not Becky Christine Platt and Catherine Wigginton Greene (Amistad)

—Jayme Oldham, Highland Park Public Library, IL

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—Patti Cheney, Pima County Public Library, AZ NoveList read-alike: One to Watch by Kate Stayman-London

?

—Michelle Morris, Fort Worth Public Library, TX NoveList read-alike: The Berry Pickers by Amanda Peters

—Beth Emmerling, Enoch Pratt Free Library, MD NoveList read-alike: This Train by James Grady

Notable Nonfiction:

Airp irpllane Mode: An Irr Irre ever erent ent History of T Trrav ave el Shahnaz Habib (Catapult)

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

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Be sure to check out our social media for the Bonus Pick annotations!

For dog lovers, for those who’ve experienced PTSD, for anyone who seeks inspirational stories of hope and healing from pain, trauma, sorrow, despair, or grief Available at Michigan News Agency, Kalamazoo On-line at Amazon.com or Barnes&Noble.com

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

211 East Water Street, Suite 401 Kalamazoo 269.343.2106 dementandmarquardt.com

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For a signed copy to give to that special someone, contact that author at Christinehassing.com

Then stop by the southside bathrooms of the Visitor Center for activity sheets to learn more about Michigan’s mushrooms.

c

7

January 2024

GOOD NEWS

heart of the home Ignore This

Don’t listen to me. As the new year unfolds, listen to your own voice.

Let it come through and guide you.

Trends come and go, but what feels right to you, what puts a smile on your face, what fills you with a sense of peace and comfort—only you can know.

You bet I’ll be writing about those home décor trends in future columns.

It’s what I do. If any of them resonate with you, sure, embrace them. If not, toss. The open concept is dead, designers are saying, and walls are back in. But you love all that openness, your eye traveling across the kitchen island to watch your babies play in the great room. Bright, white kitchens are gone, replaced by a vibrant palette of colors, with blue among the most popular in the newest trends.

But your white kitchen to you feels clean and hygienic, and you wouldn’t have it any other way.

2024 promises to bring an uptick of interest in murals painted across the walls of your home. Hm, well, okay, that one might call to you a little. That dark recreation space in your basement could use an outdoor view, and it is simply not to be had in the confines of cement block walls.

A mural of bright sunshine flowing

through a window, a flower garden beyond, could do the trick. This idea you might keep.

Another 2024 trend gaining fast popularity is the sensory garden.

Enough of the indoors. Homebuyers are called to the wandering pathways, surrounded by a variety of native plants, herbs, even vegetables, attracting also butterflies and birds.

Nature—we miss it. We need it. This isn’t just a trend in your mind, this is good sense.

Still. You like your home just the way it is. You have accumulated memories within those walls, favorite items placed strategically on your bookshelves so that your eye falls on them from whichever point you take in the room to rest. The colors you are drawn to don’t match those the big designers call out. The ratty old recliner may not look so great anymore but tell that to Grandpa when he rests his tired bones in its cushion, by now shaped to the angles of his body.

The best home décor is the décor that suits you. Your friends and relatives may or may not agree. No matter. After a crazed and busy day in that mad, mad world out there, it is the oasis on your personal planet.

Your dog greets you at the door,

already there at the sound of your step approaching. Your key hangs on the hook by the door. The marks carved into the door jamb that tell of the yearly growth of your daughter are precious to you—you trace your finger along them every time you pass through.

Home is your sweetest place. It

is molded to you, and you wouldn’t change it for the world. Fashions and trends come and go, but this is the place that speaks your language.

In this new year, you will change nothing. Except maybe work on that sensory garden.

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January 2024

GOOD NEWS

It’ s Summer Thyme Year Round

The familiar sign at Summer Thyme Cafe and Bakery The New Year is starting with good news for customers of Summer Thyme Cafe and Bakery, and for anyone who appreciates good food and service.

Last summer, local news outlets reported that after 35 years in business, Summer Thyme would be closing as owner Jeff Wagner, who owned the restaurant for the last 17 of those years, announced he would be retiring. Hundreds of customers, especially regulars, expressed disappointment and hopes that someone would purchase the restaurant, called “beloved” in some of those news reports. Since its opening, Summer Thyme, located at 3928 Portage Street in Kalamazoo, has been enjoyed for its great food

and service, and closing would have been a loss for many.

Enter Chris Belsom—literally—at lunch one day at Summer Thyme.

Belson, who lives in the Milwood neighborhood near the restaurant, himself had enjoyed Summer Thyme for years as a customer. He began to research what it would take to buy the restaurant. Belson knows about good food and service, with 33 years of experience in the industry, including 20 years as bar manager at the Kalamazoo Country Club and then 13 years in food services at Stryker.

Owning Summer Thyme “wasn’t something that was on my radar,” says Belsom. “I had originally thought about having a food truck.

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Summer Thyme is known for its desserts But Steve (partner Steve Markwart) and I talked with Jeff (Wagner) about the potential for purchasing the business, and one thing led to another.”

Summer Thyme is the first establishment that Belsom has owned.

Summer Thyme is known for its entrees, its variety of sandwiches, wraps, soups, and for its excellent pies and other desserts, including seven-layer bars, lemon bars, and this writer’s favorite, peanut butter pie.

Most of the food served at the restaurant is made in Summer Thyme’s own kitchen. Belsom says he plans to keep the current menu in place “and add some new dinner menu items, including comfort foods.”

The cafe is also known for the excellent and friendly service of its staff.

Many customers know the servers on a first-name basis, and the servers frequently remember the favorite foods and beverages of regular customers.

Customers say that the friendliness and efficiency of the staff has resulted in a home-like atmosphere that’s conducive to a great meal and good conversation.

Despite a change in ownership, Belson says Summer Thyme was fortunate to be able to keep all five staff members, and to add an additional server. That news will please many who came to know the existing staff.

Like former owner Wagner, Belson is involved in hands-on work, and also enjoys meeting and talking with

A Holiday sentry welcomes customers to seat themselves at Summer Thyme customers.

The absence of TV screens and loud music is notable to customers. During the Holiday season, the café is decorated with hand-made Christmas items, some of which are available for purchase. While enjoying a meal or dessert, a customer at Summer Thyme can look around and observe it to be a great place for friends and family, including seniors, veterans, and children—across generations—to meet, enjoy a nice meal, and talk.

Tony Ettwein

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January 2024

Piece by Piece

Love leaves a legacy. How you treated other people, not your wealth or accomplishments, is the most enduring impact you can leave on earth. – Rick Warren

Periodically I perform a “purge and reorganize” exercise around my home.

Sometimes it is a particular closet, cupboard, or drawer. Other times, it is every nook and cranny of every room.

I can always count on two things occurring, besides the good feeling of freed up and cleansed space. New experiences and people flow into my life having “let go to let come”. The second is my deepened gratitude for the pieces that make up the picture of my life.

Like Mr. Weber and a gentleman I will call WK. Mr. Weber was a part of my life before I was six years old.

WK entered my life at the end of my fourth decade.

Mr. Weber was my grandparents “right hand” on their farm. If my very young memory has not filled in details with imagination, Mr. Weber lived in a small camper sized trailer on the farm, and his family was our family. The life story writer in me longs to know his story through his words. I only know his story through my lens. It includes that he was a man of humility, perseverance, and kindness.

Mr. Weber once gave me a yellowdressed beanie baby. I don’t foresee this treasure being purged in my lifetime. It is a footprint in my heart of a generous man who I anticipate

didn’t have abundant money to purchase this beanie baby for me when he did.

WK crossed my path when I was given the honor of writing his life story. I crossed WK’s path when he had become a recent widower.

WK offered to teach me how to make a wooden bowl. I, who had never worked with a lathe and special wood-carving tools, would soon learn from a wise teacher how to turn a square block of wood into a work of art. His lesson plan would also teach me life wisdom.

WK’s eyesight was diminishing. I felt like I was watching a maestro listening to the finest piece of classical music watching WK gently touch the bowl as it formed. He wasn’t using his mind alone to determine smoothness; he engaged the feeling of touch.

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And intuition.

When my cutting tool nicked the bottom of the bowl, WK wisely said you can’t hurt wood. No matter what you do to it, it will remain beautiful.

His words the reminder, underneath our scars remain our strength and beauty. When he guided me to slow down in my cutting and observe the bowl as it formed, WK was teaching presence with now, don’t rush to reach the end.

I stand at the doorway of 2024, having let go of what doesn’t need to enter the new year with me. I carry forward pieces of treasured legacies.

May all good things come to you in the year ahead.

Christine Hassing https://christinehassing.com

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January 2024

GOOD NEWS

Wedding Trends The wedding trends for 2024 are exciting and can make your day extra-special and memorable. Better yet, this year’s trends are easy to personalize and make your own. Here are what the experts are forecasting for this year.

One of the top wedding trends this year is bold and bright color schemes from fiery reds and beetroot purples to warm bold pinks, like Magenta, these colors add vibrancy to your event and make it memorable. Monochromatic color hues, or shades in the same hue, offer the effect of colors or tones fading into one another.

Add a splash of creativity and fun to your wedding with the use of patterns. The pattern options are endless from classis floral prints, paisley, geometric designs, or even bold, retro-inspired patterns. Patterns can be incorporated into every aspect of your wedding, from the invitations and décor to bridesmaids’ dresses and even the wedding cake.

Mini dresses for the bride and bridal party are on the scene for 2024 along with dress separates. The bridal fashion runways were full of skirts and tops and dresses with removable layers. Double looks without having to waste precious wedding day minutes, changing looks. There were dresses in eye-catching hues this year as well, according to The Knot.

The 2024 color trend for bridesmaid dresses is black, yes, you heard right. Black bridesmaid dresses are both classic and modern. Black is timeless. It’s elegant, slimming and incredibly versatile.

Themed rehearsal dinners make a personalized guest experience. As an example, celebrate your love of Italy or your Italian heritage with an authentic pizzeria experience, where guests participate in pizza making. If you love mysteries or the game Clue, host a mystery dinner experience.

The latest era of wedding photography is all about candid shots and natural light to capture the day.

Couples are no longer concerned about everything looking perfect and are focusing more on having their photographers capture the day with minimal direction or interruptions.

In addition, Drone photography adds to the visuals of the day from “up above,” especially effective for outdoor events.

The traditional dessert, cake, is back on trend with a twist! Think texture for your cake – pleats, lace, stenciled patterns, ruffles and more, provide a creative spin on this classic dessert option.

Audio guest books are a fun way to record your guest well wishes on a vintage phone. This retro accessory doubles as a recording device and the ultimate wedding keepsake. While a note is nice, there’s nothing quite like hearing your grandma share some marital wisdom or your college roommate crack and inside joke.

For the bride and groom send-off, cold fireworks and laser shows will be the rave for 2024. Cold fireworks

produce sparks at a low temperature making them safer than their counterparts. Laser shows can be set to music and double as a final moment of entertainment for your guests.

Minimoon’s plus a honeymoon are growing in popularity. Couples are saving the bucket list trip for a later date and are instead taking a minimoon to a nearby destination to recharge and relive the memories of the day. These weekend long respites are the perfect way to celebrate on a small scale.

Consider incorporating some of these exciting new trends into your special day and enjoy a one-of-a-kind experience that will linger in your guest’s memories for years to come.

Jackie Merriam Sources: theknot.com, vogue.com, weddingforward.com & brides.com, pureinvitation.com.

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January 2024

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January 2024

GOOD NEWS

Wedding Invitations

New and Next in Wedding Trends

An invitation is the first opportunity a couple has to express their style, create excitement and give guests a preview of the magical day they are about to experience.

We’ve pulled together 6 existing and emerging trends we’re seeing couples explore for their wedding days, all beginning with the delivery of an invitation.

More is More

Maximalism is having a moment!

Imagine layers of texture, mixed materials, pattern juxtaposition and non-traditional bits and bobs. You no longer have to choose between elements, you can have them all!

The more is more trend is truly a show stopping introduction to your dream wedding day.

Simple Splendor

On the flip side, we are still seeing

many simpler, more intimate affairs.

Perspectives have changed. Rather than formal extravaganzas that take years of planning, couples are opting for smaller, more heartfelt celebrations, where each detail is allowed to flourish and breathe. Invitations for these more modern moments are often reflections of a couple’s love, filled with beautiful details that truly reflect their story: personalized maps with favored haunts, custom shaped RSVP cards, hand-painted pet portraits, family crests, and more.

vintage elements or iconic styles from your favorite time period for a new look that is totally yours.

What goes around, comes around.

Every era brings a wealth of style inspiration and we’re seeing that influence throughout wedding design and stationery. Whether you’re bringing the 20s glam, the 60s groove, the 70s funk, or the 80s flash, there are a lot of ways to capture the essence of each decade and add a little vibe where you need it most. Incorporate

Envelopes have long been an afterthought but no more! They’re finally getting the attention they deserve with matching artwork, beautiful calligraphy, and customized suites of vintage stamps. Surprisingly, postage can be one of the more expensive elements in your invitation so you should make it count! Get your guests’ hearts racing from the mo-

Decades of Inspiration

Coastal Hues and Cues

Living in Michigan, we’ve always had a special place in our hearts for beachy blues and sandy neutrals, but it has quickly become one of the top color palettes industry wide. Get the look with natural materials, light airy fonts, and watercolor accents. Beyond the breezy seaside hues, add a touch of lilac or dusty rose for a hint of the famed beach-side golden hour.

Sign Sealed delivered

ment they see that envelope poking out from between the junk mail.

Floral Frenzy

There is absolutely nothing new when it comes to pairing flowers and weddings, BUT we’re here for it. We have seen an explosion of passion for florals in all shapes and sizes, from bright bold splashes of color, to more delicate wreaths of meadow blooms.

They are the perfect complement to any style or dream decor, and thus the perfect addition to your wedding paper goods.

No matter the trending colors or popular styles, your wedding day should reflect who you are as couple, and share your love story with those who love and support you.

Consider what matters most and do what makes you happy. These trends are a great place to start!

Kristina Scobie | Creative Director Noteworthy Invitations by Design

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January 2024

GOOD NEWS

Relationships

The Art of Giving and Receiving Gifts

With the major holidays in the rearview mirror, you can slow down and reflect on what gift-giving means to you and prepare for the next holiday, birthday or event. Some people have an easier time than others regarding gift-giving or receiving, and it could be related to their love languages. The five love language quiz can help you determine your love language and give you more insight into why you love, despise, or are indifferent when it comes to exchanging presents. Often, if you enjoy receiving gifts and that is high in your love language, then you may be more apt to shop for loved ones, trying to find the perfect present.

However, if gift-giving is low in your love language, it may be easier for you when shopping. Remember, knowing the people you love language is vital, so you know how they feel about giving/receiving gifts.

When my editor asked me to write something related to gift-giving, I immediately got writer’s block. As gift giving/receiving is lower in my love languages. While I like to receive gifts, I wouldn’t say I want to open them in front of others, and when it comes to gift-giving, I wander mindlessly around the store or on Amazon,

trying to figure out the perfect gift.

Vacations or destinations are always my favorite go-to because you create memories with your favorite people.

Since I had writer’s block, I put a poll out asking people to share their opinions with me about their giftgiving and receiving opinions, and the results were impressive.

Many people on my poll reported loving to shop for others. Some even said they don’t even need a reason to give gifts. When they know they have found something that someone would love, they instantly want to buy it for that person. Another person suggested that even though gift-giving is not their love language, they focus on what will fill the person they are shopping for love›s tank. Others •Cupcakes indicated that they love •Cookie Pops giving gifts but may not •Cake Pops & More feel as comfortable receiving gifts or opening Wed.-Fri., 3-6pm • laylascoolpops.com New gifts in front of others. n Curbside pick-up: laylascoolpops.square.site Locatio4213 S. Westnedge Ave., Kalamazoo - 269-767-8499 Donating to a cause or

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someone›s favorite charity would be a preference over a gift or a beautiful bouquet to fill the home and look at to enjoy.

Many suggested that thoughtful gifts are appreciated because it feels like the person took time and energy to pick out the gift while showing that the person knows them. Giftgiving is a creative craft that allows them to think outside the box when searching for the perfect present.

Across the board, people agree it differs from how expensive a gift is, but taking the time to make a meaningful gift is more appreciated than a costly one. It is important to remember that if someone spends $30 on a gift and only makes $10.00 an hour, it took them 3 hours to find a special gift for you, and that should be as important as thinking about the time it took for someone to show you, you are unique to them to take three hours out of their work week to offer you a gift.

A helpful tip for shoppers is having someone create a list of wants in several colors so the receiver gets

something they want without knowing precisely what it is. The philosophy behind the list is that the gift giver and receiver will have authentic responses in the gift exchange.

Another critical thing to recognize is the gift of time. If the person you are shopping for has quality time high in their love language, take time to spend with them. A day of beauty, a luncheon, a walk through the park, or a movie may mean more to them than a worldly possession. At the same time, others may speak the love language of acts of service. These people may appreciate you helping them with a project, cooking a meal, organizing a space in your home, or helping with yard work. Finally, those who speak the love language of words of affirmation may appreciate a poem or song created just for them.

Ultimately, knowing the people you are shopping for and taking into consideration what their love language is will assist you in finding that perfect gift. Remember, homemade gifts from love can be more priceless than any possession. Take time this year to find out what the people on your list prefer. It may allow you to add some new traditions to your holiday season next year.

Remember, if you are struggling with the stresses of the post-holiday season, local counselors are here to assist you in decreasing any stresses you may have. It is okay to ask for help. Shopping around for a therapist that relates to you, and you connect with is also OK. Dr. Julie Sorenson, DMFT, MA, LPC

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January 2024

GOOD NEWS

Vintage

Winter is here again, Good News Paper readers – instead of getting sad, let’s welcome it! While many of us take this time of the year to lessen our social calendars and stay inside, there is still much to do! In our (thankfully) post-pandemic world more and more events are popping up all over the area so there is no better time to jump in. Maybe instead of letting those “Winter Blues” take over this year, dive into the cold season and allow a fresh new perspective to take hold- FRIGID FUN! We here at Vintage in the Zoo (VITZ) are glad to have recently wound down producing and throwing another successful season of Vintage and Handmade market events in Kalamazoo and Grand Rapids. We can never stop though, so as usual there is more ready to go! Perhaps you can add some time supporting our amazing vendors in amongst your FRIGID FUN schedule? Sound interesting? Well, read on to learn more!

In our experience there is nothing like good food, great friends, secondhand shopping, unabashed dancing, and maybe an adult-beverage to fire

up some good times on a cold evening. Knowing this, we have an event series coming this winter that will meet all the above. Vintage in the Zoo has again partnered with Louie’s Trophy House to bring the community our “Night Shop” Pop-Up market for three (3) dates in 2024!

These events have it all, and with the smashing success of this series last winter, we HAD to bring it back.

Join us at Louie’s (629 Walbridge St, Kalamazoo, MI 49007) from 5 - 10pm on January 26th, February 16th, and March 29th for a healthy dose of midwinter community connection, opportunities to shop and support local independent businesses, and soul-warming FUN. As always, the amazing DJ Dan Steely will be there spinning the best mix of live vinyl Kalamazoo has to offer and setting the ultimate feel-good dance party vibe. VITZ is bringing a curated list of independent businesses to pop-up at each date, featuring thirteen (13) of the region’s best Vintage and Handmade vendors. Is that not enough to get you outta the house!??

Ok, how about Louie’s offers up some killer specials / special offerings

on their food and beverage menus too, and we do giveaways! Being the oldest bar in Kalamazoo, you know Louie’s Trophy House knows how to put on a party! We couldn’t be more overjoyed to partner with this historic local establishment again J As always Vintage in the Zoo events are “free to all, come shop small!” Join us in supporting SECONDHAND and LOCAL, from January – March (and year-round really) at each Night Shop Pop-Up Market events inside the backroom

of Louie’s Trophy House in Downtown Kalamazoo - full event details/ schedule are on our Instagram page (www.instagram.com/vintageinthezoo/). PLUS, you can keep the local love going by perusing our vendors and giving them a follow as well. WE LOVE LOCAL, and are proud to help make Kalamazoo a place where independent and entrepreneurial dreams can flourish.

CYA at Louie’s!

Patrick Turner | VintageintheZoo.com

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January 2024

GOOD NEWS

Parenting They Are Always Watching Have you ever heard the phrase “You better be careful what you say.

Children hear EVERYTHING”?

It’s so true. OK, correction... Besides the selective hearing issue of most children who clearly do not hear your requests for them to do dishes or brush their teeth, they are watching and listening to your actions and words.

No one is asking for you to be the perfect public relations representative and filter your words constantly.

However, I would challenge you to be mindful of some important concepts that you are modeling for the curious minds you are raising.

The first one is empathy. We live in a complicated time and people can be very cynical. You may use sarcasm to express your opinions, often shading compliments with a hint of judgement. You may make flippant comments about someone’s appearance or status while driving in the car. You may have a conversation with a friend about another’s friend’s circumstances that you would not otherwise say to their face. Your children hear you.

You are modeling for them that it’s OK to say things that could hurt someone’s feelings, but we immediately make our little ones apologizing

as soon as they do the same thing. It makes it hard for them to understand what empathy is if we are showing them that it’s OK for us to judge others harshly without thinking first.

The other important concept I want to touch on is acceptance. We are so lucky to live in a world filled with so much diversity and learning opportunities for upcoming generations. When I was a child, when we saw someone who looked or acted

differently from me, my mom would say “Don’t stare. Mind your own business. Come here”. And that was that. There was no discussion or teaching moment. I just learned they were different and it wasn’t my business. I likely missed the opportunity to know some pretty great people. I challenge you to help your children be a catalyst for acceptance and inclusion. You model that for them and they will model it for their peers.

Educate them on differences and that it is OK to acknowledge those differences. Encourage them to include friends who may be shy or join those who want to play something that your child thinks is “baby-ish” or “not fun”. Read books to them about diversity and inclusion. Bring them to community events, not just activities in their small social circle of school.

Don’t get me wrong. I am guilty of the “do as I say, not as I do” thing.

We are all learning. This article is not laced with judgement or meant to sound punitive. This is just a request to pause and think about the modeling we are providing to our children.

It may be worth a conversation and acknowledging when you make a mistake so they can learn that it’s OK to make mistakes and learn from them. There is an abundance of natural learning opportunities out there.

Take advantage and grow some really great humans.

And remember, you are doing a great job. Keep it up!

Arlene Giacona, LMSW Brightside Counseling www.brightsidecc.com

January 2024

Recipes Eating a bowl of homemade, high fiber soup is a surefire way to lose weight while enjoying delicious food!

There are just so many of us always looking for a quick fix for losing weight and improving health. However, one of the biggest reasons our bodies hold onto excess weight/fluid is due to infrequent nutrition and hydration.

Not providing our bodies with a solid, timely routine for food and water throws our body systems into the “Fight or Flight” mode, which triggers the release of cortisol, causing the retention of fluids, and slowing of the metabolism so more calories are stored.

Therefore, the easiest way to start losing unhealthy weight and excess fluid is to simply get yourself into healthy habit of scheduled eating and drinking times throughout the day, every day.

16

Slimming Soups Consume an ounce of water for every pound of your ideal weight, and you make sure to consume adequate amounts of fiber and nutrition on a regular schedule, too. Excess weight will start to come off in as little as 3 days. No calorie or carb counting needed, just nutrients, fiber, and water.

When we consume nutrients and hydration on a regular basis, it sends a signal to our bodies to relax, let go of excess weight and fluid, and turn off the “fight or flight” mode.

Another system issue that can hinder health and weight is not having bowels moving regularly. Bowels can easily add ten pounds to the scale if they are not flushed out with daily fiber, which not only helps literally scrub them clean, but also helps us feel fuller longer. Fiber is also vital because it is the only food that good gut bacteria consume. Consuming healthy fiber will keep both the bowels and your immune system running optimally, too.

Nutrition is key to keeping everything working well in our bodies. I am always looking for ways to sneak in nutrition, and personally recommend kale because it is at the top of the nutrition potency charts. Plus, it is surprisingly easy to sneak it into dishes, too.

Kale is perfect for adding to a favorite soup, even if you need to puree it so you don’t see or taste it alone. That said, I often add vegetables I don’t like to soups because I can puree them, and avoid any unpleasant textures or tastes while benefiting from the amazing nutrition that make them worth consuming.

Not having solids to examine somehow makes it okay to eat, which makes pureeing prime nutrition perhaps the easiest way to up the power of the food we consume.

When we eat more powerfullynutritious foods our bodies benefit greatly, and so do our moods!

Soup is the fastest path to greater health, and I am excited to share that

I have begun filming new cooking episodes available for viewing (free) on YouTube, courtesy of EBELS. For a direct link to these cooking episodes, look on my Facebook page, website, or email me.

This month we are releasing a special “Soup” episode that features my World Food Championships Fantasy French Onion Soup, which scored a 98.75 out of a possible 100.

As a top contender, I am so thrilled to have the opportunity to share my secrets for making this mouthwatering-amazing soup with you on film, and here now is a palooza of additionally pleasing soups, including some you can puree. Enjoy!

Laura Kurella is an award-winning home cook who loves to share her recipes from her Michigan kitchen. She welcomes your comments at laurakurella@ yahoo.com Stylist & Photographer: Laura Kurella

Splendid Butternut Squash Soup 2 tablespoons butter 1 sweet onion, sliced 3 cloves garlic 3 sprigs fresh thyme 1 butternut squash - peeled, seeded, and cut into 1-inch cubes 2 quarts low sodium chicken stock 1/8 teaspoon ground cumin 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper 1 pinch ground allspice 1/2 teaspoon unrefined mineral sea salt In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, melt butter. Add onion and cook until softened, about 7 minutes. Add garlic, thyme and cook

Oh-so-creamy Mushroom Soup 1/4 cup unsalted butter 2 pounds sliced fresh mushrooms 1/2 teaspoon unrefined mineral sea salt 1 large sweet onion, diced 1 1/2 tablespoons all-purpose flour 6 sprigs fresh thyme 2 cloves garlic, peeled 4 cups chicken broth 1 cup water 1 cup heavy whipping cream freshly ground black pepper, to taste 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaf for garnish, or to taste Melt butter in a large soup pot over medium-high heat; cook mushrooms in butter with salt until the mushrooms give off their juices; reduce heat to low. Continue to cook, stirring often, until juices evaporate and the mushrooms are golden brown, about 15 minutes. Set aside a few

GOOD NEWS

attractive mushroom slices for garnish later, if desired. Mix onion into mushrooms and cook until onion is soft and translucent, about 5 more minutes. Stir flour into mushroom mixture and cook, stirring often, for 2 minutes to remove raw flour taste.

Tie thyme sprigs into a small bundle with kitchen twine and add to mushroom mixture; add garlic cloves. Pour chicken stock and water into mushroom mixture. Bring to a simmer and cook for 1 hour. Remove thyme bundle. Transfer soup to a blender in small batches and puree on high speed until smooth and thick. Return soup to pot and stir in cream. Season with salt and black pepper and serve in bowls, garnished with reserved mushroom slices and a few thyme leaves.

for about 5 minutes. Add squash, chicken stock, and spices then bring to a boil. Reduce heat to a simmer and cook until the squash is tender, 10 to 15 minutes.

Remove from heat and pour soup into a blender, filling the pitcher no more than halfway. Hold the lid of the blender in place with a kitchen towel and carefully start the blender using a few quick pulses to get the soup moving before leaving it on to puree. Puree in batches until smooth and pour into a serving bowl. Alternatively, you can use a stick blender and puree the soup in the pot.

January 2024

17

Recipes

Super-nutritious Cabbage Soup

GOOD NEWS

3 large sweet onions, sliced 3 carrots, sliced 1 bunch of celery, leaves included, sliced 10 ounces mushrooms, sliced 1/2 head garlic, minced 2 green bell peppers, seeded and sliced half a head of cabbage, sliced kale leaves (optional) 30 ounces tomatoes 2 quarts low sodium chicken or vegetable broth unrefined mineral sea salt, black pepper, to taste Slice onions then add to a large deep

skillet or Dutch oven over mediumhigh heat. Add oil and stir then slice and add carrots. Cook until onions begin to caramelize then add sliced celery and mushrooms. Stir well then add minced garlic and sliced peppers. Cook stirring for 3 to 5 minutes then add cabbage and tomatoes.

Cover with broth, and bring to a boil.

Reduce to a simmer, cover, and cook for one hour.

Note: If you would like a spicy soup, add a small amount of curry or cayenne pepper now.

Salt and pepper to taste. Puree, if desired, before serving.

4 tablespoons unsalted European butter 1 large yellow onion, chopped 1 stalk celery, minced 1/4 cup flour 1 pint half-and-half or cream 1 pint low-sodium chicken bone broth 1/2-pound broccoli, (about 3 cups) 1 cup raw carrot, hand-shredded 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional) 8-ounce brick sharp cheddar cheese, grated* unrefined (colored) sea salt and ground black pepper, to taste Cut up broccoli, setting crowns aside, then chop stems into small, bite-size pieces.

In the bottom of a large, heavy bottomed skillet, melt butter then add onions and celery. Cook over medium-high heat until soft, and onions begin to caramelize, about 5 minutes.

Add chopped broccoli stems and shredded carrot. Stir for 2 minutes,

then sprinkle flour over the onion/ broccoli mixture. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, for 2 minutes, then add chicken stock and carrots.

Cook over low heat for 20-25 minutes or until the broccoli and carrots are tender. Add salt and pepper, to taste.

If you prefer a smooth soup, blend now.

If adding dairy, return soup to pan and place over low heat then whisk in the half & half.

If adding Cheddar, add the cheese at this point. *=Use brick only because pre-shredded is coated to prevent clumping, which may make soup unappealing.

Keep over lowest heat setting to prevent soup from becoming grainy.

Before serving, sprinkle a little freshground nutmeg over the top of the bowl, if desired. Serves well with crusty bread.

some of the sugars that make beans difficult to digest. While some nutritionists often recommend rinsing canned beans to reduce the sodium, others say you’re tossing valuable nutrients when you do.

What if beans are not to your liking? Try sneaking them in to some of your diet. Hummus, a staple in middle eastern cooking, is a great snack with pita chips. You can also puree some white beans into mashed potatoes, or use roasted chickpeas to replace croutons on your salad.

All beans are good choices, but the best way is to eat a variety because some boast extra benefits. Black and red beans have the most antioxidants, navy beans supply calcium, and lentils are rich in iron.

Let’s not forget that beans are plentiful, always in season, and easy on the food budget. For those whose digestion produces “social consequences” of beans in a diet, there are products that claim to reduce or eliminate some of those consequences. It seems the news on beans is so good that finding a way to eat more of them deserves some serious thought.

I wish you all a happy and healthy new year. Remember kindness never goes out of style and MAKE every day great.

Till next time,

Creamy Broccoli Soup (with/without Cream/Cheddar)

HEALTH Spilling the Beans

The expression actually has historical significance when elections were decided by how many beans candidates had when the container was “spilled” and the beans were counted.

But this isn’t about elections; we’ll be hearing plenty of election news all year. This is about the great health benefit of beans, which can be incorporated into several warm weather meals.

Among nutritionists, beans are a super food. They’re the only food that counts both as a protein and a vegetable. They’re rich in vitamins and minerals, such as calcium, iron, potassium, and magnesium. Plus you get about 8 grams of protein and 7 grams of fiber in just a half-cup of cooked or canned beans. Your daily protein requirement is about 64 grams, so with a bowl of chili or navy bean soup, you’re well on your way to meeting your requirement.

Beans are also high in resistant starch, a carbohydrate that’s similar to fiber. It isn’t digested and converted to glucose (blood sugar) the way other carbs are. They also have antioxidant compounds that protect

against the kind of cell damage that raises the risk of heart disease and certain cancers. Flavonoids are the type of antioxidant most plentiful in beans. They’re mostly concentrated in the coating of the beans, where they provide the pigment. That’s why darker colored beans are highest in antioxidants. (Think kidney beans.)

Numerous studies have shown a link between higher bean consumption and better health, lower risk of type 2 diabetes and colon cancer. A 2021 review of studies found that eating an average of ¾ cup of beans a day lowered LDL (bad) cholesterol by 19% and overall rates of cardiovascular disease by 11%. Plus, the American Journal of Medicine suggested a higher fiber intake may lead to better cognitive function in older adults. These are significant numbers!

You may ask if canned beans or dried beans are equally healthy?

The advantage of canned beans is, of course, they take no preparation.

Beans cooked from scratch tend to be creamier and keep their skin intact.

Soaking beans overnight helps speed the cooking process and breaks down

Ken Dettloff ACE Certified Personal and Brain Health Trainer

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January 2024

GOOD NEWS

LOCAL LANDMARK: The Ladies’ Library Association of Kalamazoo

A marker at the peak of the LLA Building The Ladies’ Library Association of Kalamazoo (LLA) brings to mind the quote by anthropologist Margaret Meade: “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed individuals can change the world. In fact, it’s the only thing that ever has.”

The LLA, which officially incorporated in 1852, actually began to fill its function eight years earlier, in 1844, when two young Kalamazoo women, Lois Hemphill Ransom and Helen Chamberlin Kendall (then aged 31 and 28, respectively), began reading to each other once a week. The group soon grew into a “sewing circle” in which one member read aloud while the others sewed. The group continued to grow and set objectives of increasing literacy and achieving women’s right to vote. One of the LLA’s eight charter members, Lucinda Hinsdale Stone, was a women’s rights advocate and philanthropist whose husband, James Stone, was the first president of Kalamazoo College.

“Most of the women in the group came from New England and Upstate New York,” says Grace Kalafut, LLA member and past president. “They came from an environment of culture on the East Coast and books were

a big part of that,” she explains. At that time, Kalamazoo did not have a public library. The women of the LLC began building a collection of books and provided library services to local residents for just 50 cents per year. By 1852, the collection included some 2,000 books; it was first maintained in the home of Col. George Rice (brother of LLA member Susan Rice) and later in stores and churches. Men could borrow books but could not be LLA members.

The LLA was the first women’s club in Michigan, and third such organizations in the Unites States, according to LLA Vice President Dr. Sharon Carlson. To raise funds, the group held ice cream and strawberry socials, raffles, concerts, lectures, and from interest on loans to local businesses. In addition to literacy and women’s suffrage, the LLA has supported service personnel, which included making socks and blankets for Union troops during the Civil War. In 1855, discussions began for the LLA to have its own building. The resulting structure, as well as the manner in which the group was able to construct it, was also historic.

LLA founding member Ruth

Plaques mark the LLA Building as the first women’s club in Michigan and its designation on the National Register of Historic Places

Holiday decorations in the beautiful vestibule of the LLA Building Webster offered a parcel of property such an important part in this comshe owned at 333 South Park Street, munity. the current location of the LLA The Kalamazoo Ladies Library building. Her offer was accepted by Association Building hosts events the LLA board of directors in 1872. throughout the year and is available But before construction began in for public events.

1878, the law literally needed to be changed, as women could not own Tony Ettwein property in Michigan unless they inherited it from their husband. With support of State Representative Jonathan Parsons of Kalamazoo, such a law was enacted, and construction began. Chicago architect Henry L. Gay designed the red brick building in the Venetian Gothic style, complete with a tower and gargoyle. From the stairway inside the building, visitors look up to the beautiful top of the tower. Local builder Frederick Bush was contracted to build the structure, which was completed the following year. Thanks to the LLA, the building remains a tribute to generations of The skylight in the tower is the “crown jewel” women who have played of the LLA Building

19

January 2024

GOOD NEWS

The Beauty of Winter Leaves It would be reasonable to think that, as a lifelong Midwestern girl, I would be used to the inevitable icy, snow-covered roads that come with living in Michigan. Although that is generally true, I need a bit of acclimation each year when the first frozen precipitation requires me to slow down and take turns more cautiously than usual. One recent morning, cursing as I fish-tailed a bit, my expletives were met with a beautiful sight on the road ahead. There was a beautiful, small oak tree that had not yet dropped its leaves. A layer of heavy white snow blanketed the leaves.

What a lovely image! I thought that as the snow melted, it would cause the leaves to drop, and the next time I would travel by, the limbs would be bare. A few days later, after temperatures rose back into the 40s, I was amazed to see the tree still clinging to its full complement of foliage. With that phenomenon in mind, I noticed other deciduous trees still with many leaves. Now I see them everywhere!

How have I not paid attention to this before?

Sure enough, it is not uncommon for some species to retain leaves long into the winter months, sometimes until spring. Of course, there is a scientific name for this behavior, marcescence, loosely meaning “withering, but persistent,” and scientists have proposed several ideas for the benefits to the tree.

“Normal” deciduous trees, like maples and birches, for example, shed their leaves in fall. The process begins in response to climate cues, such as changes in the angle of sunlight and shortening daylight. We are most familiar with color change when chlorophyll breaks down and other pigments, frequently yellows, oranges, and reds that have been active but hidden by the abundance of green, become visible. At the same time, abscission (the detachment of the leaf ) occurs as cells at the base of the leaf stem (where it attaches to the branch) begin to die. The leaf detaches and

falls. The majority of trees we are most familiar with, except evergreens which engage in a different process, follow this pattern. Some species, however, have modified the procedure.

Marcescence typically occurs in young oak and beech trees. Instead of the abscission cells dying and allowing the leaf to fall, the cells hang on to their twig attachment. In early spring, months after the tree’s neighbors, leaf fall finally occurs. The dried-up, dead leaves are literally pushed off the branch by the growth of new buds, eager to put on a spring show of green.

Scientists don’t know for sure, but there are several hypotheses for why trees exhibit this behavior and its potential benefits. Research has found that dead, dried foliage is generally unpalatable to browsers - animals such as deer - attracted to leaves, twigs, and bark as a food source in the winter. By shielding tender, overwintering growth from herbivores, new tissue is more likely to survive the winter and is better able to be productive in the spring. Another thought is that oaks and beeches, especially young specimens, frequently have shallower root systems and can easily be out-competed for nutrients by more mature trees. The young tree can receive nourishment and water more efficiently by dropping its leaves in the spring as decomposition proceeds.

They are, in essence, providing their own fertilizer.

At some point in the growth cycle, most marcescent trees become fully deciduous as they mature, although it is not uncommon to see lower branches of large oaks retaining their leaves

. It is unclear whether this is due to sufficiently massive root structures or larger branches that are not subject to being eaten by wildlife or some other factor. However, like so many things in life, it is just another phase that some juveniles, in this case, trees, go through.

Birds and, to a lesser extent, squirrels benefit from marcescent trees by providing camouflage from predators and shelter from harsh winds and heavy precipitation. I marvel at nests perched high above the ground as they sway in the cold winter storms.

Since I’ve had the opportunity to learn about marcescence, I see it everywhere and, as always, am left with some questions. Why is it a strategy that has only caught on with primarily oaks and beeches? Is it more common in densely populated tree environments? Is soil fertility a factor?

Does the phenomenon cease when the tree reaches a specific size? Above or below ground? At a certain age? So many questions…

I hope you will also begin to pay attention and stay curious. Happy New Year!

Cheryl Hach Retired Science Teacher Kalamazoo Area Math and Science Center Reference: Charter Oaks Company (2017, January 25). Why Do Some Trees’ Dead Leaves Not Fall Off the Tree.

Charter Oaks Company Blog. Retrieved December 4, 2023, from https://www.charteroakscompany. com/2017/01/25/trees-dead-leavesnot-fall-off-tree/

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January 2024

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FREE january Events virtual

Museum to Host March 6 Through January 7 Exhibit: Splat! The Buzz About Fly Swatters, KVCC Museum

Sundays, Jan. 7,14,21,28 Music Open Mic Night, 7-11pm Valhalla /Norse Nectar Meadery

Through January 21 Exhibit: Off the ShelvesFurniture& artifacts collection that spans 200 years. KVCC Museum

Monday, January 8 Great Michigan Read Launch Party, 4-5:45, Parchment Library

Mondays, Jan. 1,8,15,22,29 Parchment Update Interviews Parchmentlibrary.org Mondays, Jan. 1,8,15,22,29 Family Storytime- books, songs…10-10:30am, Vicskburg Library Mondays, Jan. 1,8,15,22,29 Team Trivia at Old Burdick’s Wings West, Kalamazoo, 7-9pm Tuesdays, Jan. 2,9,16,23,30 Preschool Story Time, ages 3-5, 10:15am, Richland Library Tuesdays, Jan. 2,9,16,23,30 Drop-In Gaming, grades 6-12, 3-5pm, Richland Library Tuesdays, Jan. 2,9,16,23,30 Theme Trivia Tuesdays, 7-9pm Revel and Roll West, Register: (269) 488-3800 Wednesdays, January 3 & 17 Mugs & Hugs, 10-10:45am, Stories & more, Vicksburg Library Wednesdays, Jan. 3,10,17,24,31 Wednesday Wigglers, infants/ Toddlers, 10:15am, Richland Library

Tuesday, January 9 ArtBreak: Dia de los Reyes: Cultural Traditions in Mexico and Beyond, Noon-1pm Kalamazoo Institute of Arts Tuesday, January 9 Big Furry Friends Therapy Dog 4:30-6:30, Parchment Library Tuesday, January 9 RCL Cookbook Club, 6pm, Choose recipe from the Selected cookbook, make it, Bring it & share, Richland Library Wednesday, January 10 Bird & Coffee Chat: Birding And mindfulness, 10am on Zoom, Register:kbs.msu.edu, Kellogg Bird Sanctuary Wednesday, January 10 RCL Adult Film Club, watch movie & Come & discuss, 6pm, copies of DVD at Richland Library Thursdays, January 11 & 25 Teen Break & Bulldog Break, Crafts, games, activities &treats!

2:45-5:45, Vicksburg Library Thursday, January 11 Comedy Open Mic Night, 9-11pm Valhalla/Norse Nectar Meadery

Wednesdays, Jan. 3,10,17,24,31 Final Goofery Comedy Night, 8:30-10pm, Final Gravity, Kal.

Friday, January 12 Forge Your Own Prop Sword, Grades 6-12, 5-9pm, Register: Richland Library, 629-9085

Thursdays, Jan. 4,11,18,25 Trivia Night, 7pm, Gull Lake Distilling Company, Galesburg

Saturday, January 13 Craft Show-beat the winter blues! 9am-3pm, Kalamazoo Expo Center

Thursdays, Jan. 4,11,1724,31 Euchre Tournament, 7-10pm, Final Gravity Brewing

Saturday, January 13 Your Story! Public Media Network, 10am-Noon, Make a Video, Epic Center, Kalamazoo

Thurs. Jan. 18,25, Feb. 1,8 The Art of Storytelling (4-week Class), grades 1-5, 4pm, register: 629- 9085, Richland Library

Saturday, January 13 Art Detectives: The Crayon Man featuring Wellspring Dance, 10:30am-Noon, Kalamazoo Institute of Arts

Thursday, January 18 Evening STEAM, 6-7pm Vicksburg Library

Saturday, January 13 WMU Concerto Competition Finals, 1pm, Dalton Recital Hall Saturday, January 13 Washington Ave. Arts & Culture Crawl, 2-6pm, Edison Neighborhood Sunday, January 14 2nd Sundays Live! Concert: The Birdseed Salesmen, 2pm, Parchment Library Monday, January 15 STEAM event, 11am-Noon Vicksburg Library Tuesday, January 16 ArtBreak: Staging Dr. King: Reflections On the Mountaintop at Kalamazoo College, Noon-1pm, Kalamazoo Institute of Arts Tuesday, January 16 LEGO Club, 1-2pm & 6-6:45pm Vicksburg District Library Tuesday, January 16 Mystery Book Club-Elsa Hart Series: Jade Dragon Mountain 6:30pm, Parchment Library Wednesday, January 17 Book Discussion: The Gown, 2-3pm, Kalamazoo Institute of Arts Wednesday, January 17 Early Release Art Club, drop in, Grades 1-5, 3pm, Richland Library

Fridays, Jan. 5,12,19,26 Family Story Time, 10:15am Richland Library

Thursday, January 18 Heartbreak Book Club: The Last Letter by Rebecca Yarros, 6:30-7:30pm, Paw Paw Library Sunday, January 21 WMU Horn Day, 11am Dalton Center Recital Hall Tuesday, January 23 ArtBreak: Coloring the Mind: Fantasy, Imagination, and Stereo-Typeing early Twentieth-Century Pulp Fiction Illustration, Noon –1pm, Kalamazoo Institute of Arts Tuesday, January 23 WMU Master Class: Megumi Kanda, Trombone, 7pm Dalton Center Recital Hal Thursday, January 25 Between the Lines Book Club: Tom Lake by Ann Patchett 6:30-7:30pm, Paw Paw Library Friday, January 26 Canvas & Cocoa, grades 6-12, 3-5pm, Register: Richland Library, 629-9085 Friday, January 26 Night Shop “Pop Up” Market 5-10pm, Louie’s Trophy House Saturday, January 27 Madalene Big Bear: Great Lakes Indigenous Food Ways 10:30am, Parchment Library Monday, January 29 WMU Mast Class: Andrea Cheeseman, Clarinet, 1pm Dalton Center Room 1120 Monday, January 29 WMU CMIX Guest Artist Recital: Andrea Cheeseman, Clarinet, 7:30pm, Dalton Recital Hall

Fridays, Jan. 5,12,19,26 Trivia Fridays, 7-8:30pm Valhalla Horse Nectar Meadery

Tuesday, January 30 ArtBreak: Closed Reserves: A Look at Special Collection of the Meader Fine Arts Library, Noon – 1pm Kalamazoo Institute of Arts

Friday, January 5 Memory Café for people w/mild Dementia & their care partners 10:30am-Noon, Paw Paw Library Sundays, January 7,14,21,28 Portage Farmers Market 9am-1pm, 7900 S. Westnedge

Thursday, January 18 RCL Book Club, read & come Discuss, 6pm, copies of books At Richland Library

Photo Taken at Prairie View Park. Photo courtesy of Kalamazoo County Parks.