Southwest Michigan Spark-October 2022

Expert Advice

Health Food

Q: What type of produce does Sawall’s carry?

Insurance

Hearing Health

Mark Sawall Owner

A: Sawall’s has always carried local and certified organic produce.  Its the very best quality that can be found.  We receive produce orders almost every day!  We also carry as much local produce that we can find seasonally.  We are always looking for quality produce from local farmers.  Come in soon and enjoy the areas largest selection of fresh CERTIFIED ORGANIC PRODUCE!!

Mon-Sat. 8am-9pm, Sun. 10am-6pm Sawall Health Foods

Oakwood Plaza • 2965 Oakland Dr. at Whites Rd. • 343-3619 • www.sawallhf.com

Funeral Services

Q: How can you help tell your loved ones story?

A: Everyone has a story, and it’s there to be told if you understand how to ask the right questions.  At Langeland we take the time to communicate with the family and uncover powerful and uplifting memories. These treasured moments from the past provide a meaningful farewell and also help ease a family’s way through grief. Helping you tell the stories of the ones you love is our life’s work.

Langeland Family Funeral Homes

“Quiet dignity with compassion” has meant so much for many people... for many years. 4 locations to serve you 269-343-1508 • www.langelands.com

A: That is a common issue with many people. I would be happy to look at what you currently have and evaluate it for you and maybe give you a few things to think about. No, I never push and NO I don’t pressure you. Give me a call at 269-323-7888.

Charley Endres, CPIA Endres Insurance Agency

6660 S. Westnedge Ave., Portage • 269-323-7888 charley@endresins.com

Transitions

Q: What is the timeframe for move-in for an independent living apartment or cottage in a senior community?

A: A move to a community may include a visit to your physician, a medical interview from a qualified health professional, financial qualification and proof of assets, as well as the renovations or building of your new home. This process may take 30 days to a year or more depending on your specific circumstance.

Friendship Village

Woodside Assisted Living and Memory Care 1400 North Drake, Kalamazoo (269) 381-0515 www.friendshipvillagemi.com

Audiologist, Kim Kragt, M.A., CCC-A

A. The answer is No. Hearing aids sold by Audiologists are considered prescription devices and would not meet the new FDA guidelines to be sold as an over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aid. Over-the-counter hearing aids are being created to be selffitting devices without a hearing evaluation or the assistance of a professional. They are designed to provide an option for someone who is starting to notice hearing difficulty but would rather not seek professional service. We recommend having your hearing evaluated by an Audiologist before making the decision to pursue OTC devices.

Constance Brown Hearing Centers

1634 Gull Road, Ste 201 Kalamazoo, MI 49048 (269) 343-2601

4855 W. Centre Avenue Portage, MI 49024 (269) 372-2709

Roofing

Q: I hear that Sherriff Goslin Roofing uses their own unique shingle. Can you tell me more about this shingle?

A: The Art Loc shingle is SherriffGoslin’s original patented shingle. It can be used as a re-roofing shingle over another layer of existing shingles, or as a primary shingle over roof sheathing. It assures a smooth, windproof and watertight job. The Art Loc shingle provides a unique appearance and lends character with distinction to any home.

Justin Reynolds Manager

Today’s Art Loc shingle has been modified to include an ingredient known as an SBS (Styrene-ButadieneStyrene) polymer, which is used to alter the properties of asphalt, making the asphalt tougher and more flexible. This polymer dramatically slows down the aging process of the asphalt, providing superior waterproofing, low temperature flexibility, impact resistance, high wind endurance and extended life expectancy. Call us at (269) 342-0153 or visit us at worryfreeroof. com today to learn more.

Sherriff-Goslin Roofing Co. Since 1906 342-0153 800-950-1906

Member Home Builders Association of Greater Kalamazoo

Q: I’m not sure I need anything, my plan has been pretty good. But how do I know if I need to look at another plan or not?

Charley Endres

Diana Duncan Director of Sales and Marketing

Q: Will I be able to buy the hearing aid my Audiologist recommended over the counter?

Rob Baas

Langeland

Tasty “Harvest”

As I was getting my mail the other day, a neighbor asked if I would like some tomatoes from their garden. “Yes,” I exclaimed, and took two vine ripened tomatoes. They asked me if I could use more, as many of them had ripened at the same time, so I grabbed a few more.

A few days later, another neighbor asked if I liked tomatoes. I said, “yes,” and he quickly went home and grabbed me a whole bag full.

It seems that I’m a magnet for fresh produce lately. I stopped by my friend Fred’s house while out bike riding and

he inquired if I liked peaches, which I enthusiastically replied, “Yes, I love peaches!” He then asked, “How about vegetables?’” which I again said, “yes.” He came back with a large bag of peaches, pears, squash, cucumber, peas and green tomatoes. I was a bit worried about riding home with this large grocery bag on my bike, but how could I pass up free fresh produce? The bag seemed to get heavier and heavier as I pedaled the 3 miles home but I somehow made it without incident.

FROM THE EDITOR

Lee Dean:

Creative Discipline, Corporal Punishment

History: Kalamazoo’s Infant Welfare Station..............6

Nature: Up in the Air.

Birds Navigating the Anthropocene

Spark Book Reviews.........................................................8

Spark Recipe: Making the Rounds!.............................9

Cover Story: Husted’s Farm Market...........................10

While at Jackie’s the next day, a neighbor of hers mentioned he had just picked a bag of Japanese pears. He explained that the neighbor across the street has a large tree full, and it was pulling down the branches and breaking them due to the weight of the fruit. He encouraged us to pick as many as we wanted. I walked over with Jackie’s grandson, Lucas, and filled up a large bag. They were round, slightly smaller than a tennis ball, and very tasty!

One of the more challenging vegetables to have neighbors take off your hands is the large green zucchini squash that are about the size of a loaf of bread. This reminds me of a joke I heard the other day, warning people that when your car is in the driveway, to be sure to lock your doors, or you may find it loaded with zucchini squash.

Luckily, this hasn’t happened to me, but I am keeping my car doors locked, just in case!

Steve Ellis, SPARK Publisher steve@swmspark.com

ON THE COVER:

Volunteer: Diane Schrock.............................................12

Wednesday Warriors......................................................13

Healthy Living..................................................................14

Spark Movie Reviews.....................................................15

Business Profile: Angelo’s Italian Eatery.....................17

Tales from the Road: Williamston, Michigan ..........18

Sage Advice....................................................................19

Writers and Contributors Include: Area Agency on Aging, Steve Ellis, Lee Dean, Laura Kurella, Richard Martinovich Dave Person, Kalamazoo Nature Center, Kalamazoo Public Library, Kalamazoo Valley Museum, Portage Public Library, Senior Services of Southwest Michigan, YMCA

SPARK accepts advertising to defray the cost of production and distribution, and appreciates the support of its advertisers. The publication does not specifically endorse advertisers or their products or services. Spark is a publication of Ellis Strategies, LLC. No part of this publication may be reprinted or otherwise reproduced without written permission from the publisher.

SPARK publications, contact: Steve Ellis, 269.720.8157, steve@swmspark.com

Editor and Publisher: Steve Ellis Graphic & Page Development: CRE8 Design, Kalamazoo Content/Photography: Lauren Ellis

Mary and Scott Husted. Photo by Steve Ellis

Creative discipline, yes; corporal punishment, no

Lee A. Dean screendoor@sbcglobal.net

Two stories are making the rounds early in this school year. A school board in Cassville, Missouri has voted to reinstate corporal punishment as a last resort method of discipline. The district made its decision based on feedback from parents who wanted an additional level of discipline.

For a different parental view of discipline, consider this local tale about a kindergarten student who dropped the dreaded F-bomb on his teacher. The parents proclaimed to the teacher that the child was merely exercising his First Amendment rights and that any attempt at discipline would be met with a lawsuit.

So much for “if you get in trouble at school, you’ll also be in worse trouble at home.”

Would the return of the paddle be a deterrent to potty-mouthed five-year-olds and other behavior problems? I have my doubts.

In my school years, I cannot remember a single case of spanking during the elementary years. Our teachers had other methods they used to keep us hooligans in line. Not all of them worked.

In fifth grade, my friend Don called our teacher an old sea hag. She told him write the sentence “Mrs. Flora is not an old sea hag” 100 times on the blackboard. Don promptly marched to the blackboard and started writing, “Mrs. Flora is an old sea hag.” Our laughter tipped her off to what was happening behind her, and Don was marched to the office. The paddle may have been employed there, but he never said one way or the other.

Corporal punishment increased exponentially once we got to high school. Teachers had their own weapons, carefully crafted in shop class. One of these models was made from thick fiberglass with holes dripped into it for aerodynamic and psychological effect.

One teacher was well-known for his liberal use of “the board of education.” A new kid wasn’t aware of this teacher’s propensity for punishment. When the teacher walked into the classroom a couple minutes into the hour, the hapless student greeted him with the words, “Hello, Wamon, you’re late.”

The teacher, whose first name was Ramon, froze in his tracks. We students were also chilled, certain we were about to witness a murder. A summons was issued: “(Last name), get up here!” The poor kid got it twice: once for calling the teacher by his

first name and again for sheer impudence.

I got along well with this teacher except for the day my big yap got me in trouble. This teacher was also the basketball coach. One day in September, one of his star players committed a minor offense and received a mild tap on the glutes in return.

At that point, to quote comedian Ron White, I had the right to remain silent but didn’t have the ability.” For some reason, I said to the teacher, “It looks like your arm isn’t warmed up yet.”

The next sentence was all too predictable: “DEAN, GET UP HERE!” I receive one vigorous swat. “How’s my arm now?” he asked. “I think you’re warmed up just fine,” I said, while taking my burning buns back to my seat with an adjusted attitude.

Corporal punishment could backfire on a teacher even then. One day in third grade, the classroom door flew open and one of the mothers stormed in. She called her son to the front of the room and asked him to pull down his shirt collar. We could see three angry red claw marks where the teacher had grabbed his neck the day before.

“If you do that to him again, I’m going to leave some marks on YOU!” she thundered at the teacher.

leave the paddles in the history books. I was fortunate enough to witness this brilliant example of a better disciplinary method. One day, a female teacher told a male student to stop talking. He responded by shouting, “Don’t tell me what to do, you H.”

“H?” the teacher replied, with eyebrows arched.

“Yes, you’re nothing but a dirty H.” Then he pronounced the word.

The teacher calmly wrote the word down on a piece of paper with its proper spelling: W-H-O-R-E. She knew he had heard the word but didn’t know what it meant. She asked him to look the word up in the dictionary. He did, and his face turned six shades of deep purple.

“Do you really think that’s what I am?” the teacher asked.

“No, ma’am,” he mumbled. Nothing else needed to be done or said. Her method of correction was far more effective than any corporal punishment.

As for that foul-mouthed kindergartener and his enabling parents, I suggest they also consult a dictionary and look up the word “consequences.” If they carry their attitude into life much farther, life will give them a spanking — and they will have asked for it.

I hope that teachers and school districts

Kalamazoo’s Infant Welfare Station: “Keep the well babies well”

by Keith Howard, Kalamazoo Public Library

If you happen by the intersection of Gull Road and East North Street today, you’ll probably notice a very nicely groomed green space known as Harrison Park. A little over a century ago, however, that same triangle of land was occupied by a small but important piece of Kalamazoo’s wellbeing, the Kalamazoo Infant Welfare Station No. 1.

By 1913 there was concern in the Kalamazoo community over the growing problem of infant mortality. That’s when the Kalamazoo Child Welfare League was formed for the “betterment of the welfare of our children, our homes, our city and the conservation of our future citizens.” Some one hundred fifty members came together each month to discuss the importance of children’s food, clothing, behavior, and other such challenges of childrearing. One of the group’s first major projects was to establish Kalamazoo’s first permanent Infant Welfare Station.

The Kalamazoo Infant Welfare Station No. 1 was designed to provide educational resources for new and economically challenged parents and their

families, especially during the strenuous times of war, through well baby visits. It was modeled after a similar program in Chicago with the chief goal of reducing the infant death rate in Kalamazoo. “Keep

ally, at least three other such stations were opened elsewhere around the city.

The station was not designed to provide medical care. Instead, parents received instruction on how to feed, clothe, bathe, and otherwise care for their infant children. Two mornings each week, typically Tuesdays and Saturdays, mothers were permitted to bring their infants to the station for examination and a conference with a doctor. Other days, a nurse in residence would follow up with in-home visits to provide hands-on training about proper childcare.

the well babies well” was their motto.

The station was located at the intersection of Gull Road and East North Street. The lot at the time was provided lease-free by the Michigan Railway Company, which made it unique among similar such stations in other cities by allowing it to function on a small budget. Scores of local companies and individuals donated time and materials to make the station a reality.

The building itself was small, a single room with a stucco exterior designed by Kalamazoo architect Rockwell A. LeRoy – a room “so comfortable and cozy that mothers [would] love to bring their babies there.” Construction began in June 1916, and the station opened for service on August 29. Eventu-

During the years that followed, the station served more than 200 families each year. The building also hosted events such as adult education classes, a weekly children’s story hour facilitated by the Kalamazoo Public Library, and it served for many years as a First Ward polling place for Kalamazoo’s city elections.

The station remained under the control of the Child Welfare League through the 1940s. In 1952, ownership was transferred to the City of Kalamazoo and extensive repairs were made, but its use as a clinic ceased soon after. During the 1960s and 1970s, the building was used as a church, then later by the City’s Community Relations Department. The building was demolished in 1979 to make way for the current city park.

More at kpl.gov

By Kimberly Zewatzsky

The fall season is here. The days are shorter and birds begin to know it’s time to migrate. There is a word for this feeling of restlessness in birds before migration, Zugunruhe.

Some birds migrate only a few hundred miles while others migrate thousands of miles.

To prepare for a long-distance migration, birds can gain up to 70% of their total body mass in fat; the equivalent to a 100-pound runner gaining 50 pounds of fat prior to a marathon.

It’s been KNC’s mission to track the seasonal ways of birds since 1974. KNC’s new exhibit, ‘Up In The Air: Birds Navigating the Anthropocene’, is interactive and showcases the conservation and research initiatives which have been a part of it’s long history.

Leading the team into new territory is Kim Long, Exhibit Coordinator, whose had previous experience at The Detroit Institute of Arts. This experience paired nicely with KNC’s new focus on hosting museum-quality exhibits.

Long said that “Up In The Air” features the ongoing research conducted by KNC’s avian team. As the second half of the title suggests, “Birds Navigating the Anthropocene,” we now live in an era that’s characterized by human domination over the earth’s climate and environment.

“The biggest over-arching theme of the show focuses on how birds have had to adapt to living among humans,” Long explained. “What we’ve done to our environment and the earth creates some benefits for birds, but also many obstacles as

they seek habitat or during migration.”

“The exhibit covers birds’ travels through fall, winter, spring and summer and talks about those challenges. The show also offers ideas for visitors on how to make the lives of birds a little easier during their stay here among us.”

The heart of the exhibit features the work of Kalamazoo artist Olivia Mendoza, who created original illustrations specifically for “Up in the Air: Birds Navigating the Anthropocene.” Also included in the show is the work of Kristen Schufelt in the Glen Vista Gallery. Her environmental practices are reflected in her artwork.

Long had a few takeaways on how we can all help birds with their habitat and survival. Growing native plants is helpful; and, leave garden beds alone this fall so birds can feast on dried seeds and use the different grasses for shelter. And please keep your pet cats indoors – they prey on birds.

The exhibit runs through January of 2023 during KNC Visitor Center hours. Monday-Saturday, 9am5pm and Sundays 1-5pm.

Book Reviews

The Lincoln Highway Amor Towles

The Lincoln Highway is about four boys — three 18-year-olds who met in a juvenile reformatory, plus a brainy 8-year-old — as they set out from Nebraska in June 1954 in an old Studebaker in pursuit of a better future. If this book were set today, their constant detours and U-turns would send GPS into paroxysms of navigational recalculations. But hitch onto this delightful tour de force, and you’ll be pulled straight through to the end, helpless against the inventive exuberance of Towles’ storytelling. There’s so much to enjoy in this generous novel packed with fantastic characters — male and female, black and white, rich and poor — and filled with digressions, magic tricks, sorry sagas, retributions, and the messy business of balancing accounts.

Lock Every Door

Riley Sager

Jules Larsen is down on her luck. She lost her job, and after discovering her boyfriend cheated on her, she lost her apartment. With no money and nowhere to stay, she finds her dream job: an apartment sitting at the exclusive Bartholomew apartments. While the Bartholomew has a checkered past, and some of the rules of the job seem odd, Jules is delighted with the apartment

and the pay. However, it doesn’t take long before she notices that something is very wrong. First off, she meets Ingrid, another apartment sitter, who is clearly agitated about something. The next day Ingrid is gone. Upon investigation, Jules discovers that a lot of people have disappeared from the Bartholomew— all people with no family, just like her. Determined to find Ingrid and uncover what is happening, Jules discovers some dangerous secrets.

Mexican Gothic Silvia MorenoGarcia

Noemí Taboada is a socialite from Mexico City in the 1950s.

After coming home from a costume party, her father tells her he received a letter from her cousin and childhood friend Catalina, who recently married Virgil, the heir to an English family that owns a defunct silver mine. Catalina’s letter is distraught and claims she is being “poisoned.” Noemi’s father wants her to visit Catalina and make sure she is safe. True to the “Gothic” in the title, Naomi arrives to find Virgil’s family living in an isolated mansion that has seen better days. She believes Catalina needs psychiatric help, which her husband Virgil resists, and so she stays to get to the bottom of Catalina’s distress. What she finds is a tragic family history and a haunting with a very creepy twist. Noemi’s plucky, sunny demeanor in the face of ancient, hostile secrets makes for an endearing, compelling read.

Book Reviews by the Portage District Library staff

The 5th Annual Happy Holidays Community Expo and Cooking Show

November 6, 2022

The Community Expo

The Cooking Show

crafters

growers and brands.

For more information, call 269-435-8900 or visit Laura’s Facebook page *must be present to win

Midwest Morsels: Memorable Recipes and Reflections

Spanning Laura Kurella’s 20 years as an award-winning recipe developer and food columnist, her new book is a unique memoir of Laura’s life told through recipes. Reaching back to ancestral roots in the “old country” and forward to recent national recipe contest wins, this memoir is sprinkled with childhood favorites from the Calumet Region and Chicago area and ones savored through adult life in the Great Lakes Region of the Midwest. It is tentatively set to be released at the Cooking Show

EDEN FOODS Inspired Winter White Dip Crudite’

Prep Time: 5 minutes Serves: 6.

DIP

15 ounces EDEN Great Northern Beans, 1 can drained, reserve liquid or EDEN Cannellini Beans, or EDEN Navy Beans

3 tablespoons EDEN Roasted Sesame Tahini

2 teaspoons EDEN Umeboshi Paste, or to taste

2 cloves garlic, minced

2 tablespoons lemon juice, freshly squeezed

1/4 cup fresh parsley, minced

Place ingredients into a food processor or blender and puree. Add the bean cooking liquid (aquafaba) until dip is preferred consistency. Serve with sesame bread sticks, pita bread, or vegetables.

[Laura’s Alternate Method: Place all ingredients in a quart size freezer zipper storage bag. Remove air and seal then knead with hands (great for kids to help with) or roll with a rolling pin, until smooth. Place the bag in the refrigerator until use.

CRUDITE’

Fresh vegetables sliced (your favorites) assorted crackers

Laura Kurella is an award-winning food columnist, recipe developer, andhome cook who loves life in Michigan. She welcomes your comments at laurakurella@yahoo.com.

by Laura Kurella

HUSTED’S FARM MARKET THE BOUNTY OF MICHIGAN’S HARVEST

By Dave Person david.r.person@gmail.com

Hailing from Georgia — the Peach State — Daniel Halmi has found himself surrounded on a daily basis not only by peaches but also many other varieties of fruits and vegetables at his job at Husted’s Farm Market.

And, best of all, he gets to work among people he considers more than just co-workers.

“I enjoy the atmosphere, the family environment,” Halmi says of the market that has been selling produce and related items, such as fruit pies, apple cider and caramel apples, from a stand at 9191 W. Main St. since the 1980s.

Husted’s is open June through November, but Halmi, 33, says fall is definitely the busiest time of year. With 65 acres of farmland, much of it in orchards behind the farm stand, Husted’s sells 25 varieties of apples.

Husted’s also grows its own strawberries, cherries, peaches, sweetcorn and assorted other produce for sale during the summer.

Throw in the fruit and vegetables grown elsewhere, mostly in West Michigan, and sold at Husted’s and the

choices are almost endless.

In addition to the large variety of apples on display this time of year, as well as related items such as apple cider (and doughnuts), apple cider syrup, caramel apples, apple sauce and apple butter, Husted’s sells pumpkins,

gourds, fall squash, cabbage, cauliflower, broccoli, brussels sprouts, beets, turnips, rutabagas, maple syrup, honey, frozen fruit jam and countless other goodies.

Acorn and butternut squash will join the lineup of apples and apple products in November.

For the record, Halmi’s favorites are the honeycrisp and pink lady varieties of apples.

Scott Husted, a second-generation owner, and his wife, Mary, took over the business from his parents, Glenn and Alice, who started selling produce from the garage at their farm on West KL Avenue, which backs up to the current farm stand, in the mid-1960s.

Halmi, who is in his third year of working at Husted’s, can be found behind the counter or restocking shelves and bins, although sometimes he helps out in the kitchen where the homemade fruit pies, applesauce, salsas, pickles, hand-dipped caramel apples, sweet breads, doughnuts (apple cinnamon, pumpkin and buttermilk) and lemonade and apple-cider slushies and more are made.

Although Husted’s is open June through November, employees are working before and after that time.

“In April we start prepping for the springtime,” Halmi says. And in December and January they stay busy pressing apples into cider.

The farm stand opens in June with asparagus, rhubarb and strawberries and then follows the abundant seasonal fruits and vegetables as the summer progresses and turns into fall.

With the orchards, gardens and farm stand, Husted’s employs 15-18 people, Halmi says.

Customers are welcome to pick their own strawberries, sweet and tart cherries, and apples if they prefer.

For those already planning their Thanksgiving meals, Husted’s bakes holiday pies right up until the day before Thanksgiving, when the farm stand closes for the year.

Husted’s is open 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday, through October, and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday in November. It is closed on Mondays.

Knowing Volunteering from the Inside and Out

By Jim Coppinger, Milestone Senior Services Volunteer

Diane Schrock came to Kalamazoo to attend Western Michigan University to study English and become a teacher; she later received a master’s degree in counseling and personnel. Diane has lived here ever since and established deep roots throughout the community.

She began her professional career working for Goodwill and then the Portage Community Center.

Diane says she gained an abiding appreciation for volunteers seeing just how vital these people are to local non-profit agencies—most of which would not survive without volunteer support.

Volunteers are a significant resource for these organizations to fulfill their purpose.

She retired from agency work in 2014. However, she had no intention of retiring from her lifelong passion of helping others and the community.

Diane heard about the Shepherd’s Center of Greater Kalamazoo—one of 55 national affiliates of Shepherd’s Centers of America. The non-profit is primar-

ily dedicated to providing transportation for seniors (60+) who are unable to drive to medical appointments. Prior to the COVID pandemic, transportation was also provided for grocery shopping and Diane says the goal is to resume that service in the future.

Diane is ardently dedicated to the work of the Shepherd’s Center as a volunteer and board member. After thirty-three years, the Shepherd’s Center faces an enormous challenge. Not only did the COVID pandemic curtail operations, but the pandemic also had an impact on volunteer drivers—its lifeline. The Center went from ninety volunteer drivers to twelve. While they have been able to increase that number some, there is still an immediate need for new volunteer drivers to meet the demand. Volunteers can choose their own level of participation—so any assistance is greatly needed and appreciated.

To learn more about the Shepherd’s Center, which collaborates with Milestone Senior Services, its website is http://shepherdscenterkalamazoo.com and the phone number is (269) 383-1122. Even if you are able to volunteer once a week or a month, your assistance will help. All appointments are within

Kalamazoo County. Whenever possible, drivers are paired with clients who live the closest distance to each other.

And it goes without saying, Shepherd’s Center can always use financial donations.

Diane is also a volunteer with Meals on Wheels and she and her husband, Steve Burness, do this as a couple. This has become a popular way for many couples to volunteer. Diane says she’s the driver and her husband is the “hopper.”

As for other interests, especially being an English major, Diane loves to read. She is particularly fond of general fiction and memoirs. She also enjoys gardening, going for walks and golfing.

As for other interests, especially being an English major, Diane loves to read. She is particularly fond of general fiction and memoirs. She also enjoys gardening, going for walks and golfing.

Diane’s Meals on Wheels and Shepherd’s Center service is supported through a partnership with AmeriCorps Seniors at Milestone Senior Services.

Milestone (previously known as Senior Services of Southwest Michigan) is an AmeriCorps Seniors grantee. AmeriCorps Seniors empowers people age 55 and older to serve their communities. AmeriCorps Seniors helps people find a volunteer opportunity that fits their passion. There are currently opportunities in Kalamazoo County and Calhoun County. Volunteers are needed with Meals on Wheels, Companionship phone calls or visits with Seniors, Transportation for seniors, Milestone Home Repair, and with community partners. Regular, flexible schedules available. Contact Milestone at 269-3820515 or apply to volunteer at www.milestoneseniorservices.org.

WARRIORSWednesday

Ikigai

Okay all you volunteers out there. You are definitely trending. As the Wednesday Warriors celebrate their twentieth year of volunteering for the Southwest Michigan Land Conservancy, we might just serve as the poster children of the idea of ikigai. Ikigai is the Japanese concept of having a sense of purpose. What gets you up and doing? When we head out into one of the 50 preserves to restore habitat, scout new terrain, harvest seeds, we always seem to go home with more than just some dirt under our nails. We have a sense of satisfaction that we are making our little corner of the world a little better.

And research shows this sort of thing makes us healthier. Now, we certainly didn’t need a scientific study to convince us. We can just look at 80-something Stan plunging through the underbrush to subdue another surly Asian honeysuckle. And newcomers who try us out, just keep coming back for more.

Sense of purpose is one of the characteristics of the people in Okinawa Japan, who live long, healthy lives. Researchers also point to their bean-heavy diet, but the Warriors are going to have to deviate here, unless Bradley finds some bean doughnuts to keep us stoked.

While we’re at it, the rest of the Blue Zone shtick includes moving naturally, having the right tribe, belonging, doing what you love, doing what you’re

good at. I think I’ll save those for another article, but they sure seem to fit, don’t they?

If you want to fire up your ikigai with other active, motivated nature-lovers, consider joining us some Wednesday, as your schedule permits.

There is also a spin-off group, the Privateers who meet on Mondays. For more information, contact the Conservancy at conserveland@swmlc.org and ask to get on their email list. Their website is also kept up-to-date with details of each week’s workdays. Bring your own work gloves. And beans.

Kristi Chapman, volunteer, Southwest Michigan Land Conservancy

HEALTHYLIVING:

Go Climb a Mountain!

Written by Vicky Kettner, Marketing and Communications Director, YMCA of Greater Kalamazoo

If we’ve heard it once, we’ve heard it a thousand times: The way toward better health is to keep our bodies moving.

Truth is --- when we start to lean towards a sedentary lifestyle, there are a host of health issues that can arise or exacerbate existing conditions. According to the World Health Organization, “Sedentary lifestyles increase all causes of mortality, double the risk of cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and obesity, and increase the risks of colon cancer, high blood pressure, osteoporosis, lipid disorders, depression and anxiety.”

Heavy stuff, right?

The good news is that we can make lifestyle choices, incrementally, to work towards daily exercise and purposeful movement!

Sure, some might be inspired to pursue training for extreme sports like running a marathon, or climbing Mount Kilimanjaro to challenge themselves. For the rest of us who are not there – it means we are challenged to identify activities that challenge us to move our limbs and bodies to stimulate blood flow, strengthen muscles, and help to keep our brains sharp.

The concept of “daily exercise” may turn us off, and one may think this has to be laborious, but “keeping active” means exactly that – moving around. Bending joints. Using muscles throughout our bodies. Getting our heartrate up. It’s that simple. (It doesn’t automatically mean we have to invest in special equipment, buy techy tracking gadgets, or sign up for club memberships!) We have all we need on our persons to be successful.

And so, we may not be the mountain-climbing, Marathon types. No worries! It means that we make a promise to ourselves to add something to our day that moves our body just a little bit more.

Let’s be good to ourselves, and find safe space where we can add incremental, purposeful movement that simply increases our level of activity from wherever we are on the “active” spectrum.

Maybe we incorporate walking up and down a set of stairs a couple times more a day? Can’t do stairs? Maybe it means adding a walk around the block each morning and pushing the pace when it becomes less challenging. Can’t walk right now? Maybe it means sitting in a chair with hand-weights and doing arm and leg lifts? Maybe all you can muster up in strength is to do a small set of armcircles – that’s okay! Because it’s a start. It’s your challenge to overcome. And you can do this!

One movement at a time: It’s your mountain to climb!

Get Back

In its contemporary review of the Beatles’ 1970 LP release Let It Be, UK magazine New Musical Express lamented the album’s potential legacy as a “cardboard tombstone” for the band. The tie-in film documenting the recording sessions displayed the tension between, and apathy among, band members John Lennon, Paul McCartney, George Harrison, and Ringo Starr, as they learned new songs for a multi-media concept (which, as envisioned, fell through). Though the LP became a smash success, selling steadily in the decades since its release, the downbeat nature of the film (despite its iconic rooftop concert finale) lent credence to a long-accepted narrative: loss of team spirit and inventive spark led to the Fabs’ demise. This history makes Peter Jackson’s 2021 documentary series The Beatles: Get Back all the more astounding.

Returning to the hours of film footage and unused audio captured by original director Michael Lindsay-Hogg and his crew, Jackson uncovers scenes of joy and pure songcraft which outnumber the sour moments (the group seeming to pull the song “Get Back” from out of nowhere is a revelation). The new context is cause for celebration for Beatles fans; however, anyone who’s been part of a creative collective (musicians in particular) can appreciate this close-up look at a group of artists honing their craft, getting back to their love of creation while making the best out of difficult circumstances. –

Submitted by Karl Knack

Movie Reviews

Weight of Massive Talent

For the past 40 years, Nicolas Cage has cultivated a persona and a dedicated following arguably unrivaled in Hollywood powered by his unceasing productivity and self-aware bizarreness. Regardless of its authenticity, the public perception of the real life Nicolas Cage has become virtually inseparable from his many, many roles and that appears to be the way he likes it… and that is the brilliant notion at the core of The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent. Cage stars as himself (two versions of himself, actually) as an increasingly despondent and drunk actor beginning to consider the implications of hanging up his career completely. After being passed over for a role that has him characteristically hyped, he reluctantly accepts a gig in Mallorca attending the birthday party of one of his biggest fans. Javi (Pedro Pascal) is thrilled to meet Cage and the two hit it off in spectacular fashion. All is not as it appears however, as Cage is swiftly contacted by a pair of CIA operatives (Tiffany Haddish, Ike Barinholtz) keeping close tabs on Javi, who turns out to be a major player in an international crime syndicate. They convince Cage to spy for them by appealing to his signature ‘nouveau shamanic’ acting method, and he goes to work. The pairing of Cage and Pascal proves to be an inspired one, and the script by Director Tom Gormicon and co-writer Kevin Etten is pitch-perfect and packs surprisingly broad appeal. This production deftly surpasses expectations. –

Submitted by Patrick Jouppi

Reviews submitted by Ryan Gage. These great titles and others are available at the Kalamazoo Public Library.

Angelo’s Italian Eatery

By Richard Martinovich

After being fired from the company he founded, Steve Jobs came back to lead Apple Computer to its most creative run. When Starbucks stock plummeted earlier this year, Howard Schultz came out of retirement to take over the coffee giant he built as a global brand.

Now Pat Barnhart has returned to Angelo’s Italian Eatery, after a three-year absence! Barnhart owned Angelo’s in 2006 but sold it in 2018, then bought it again in December 2021. “We missed our customers!” says Pat. Angelo’s has always been known for its grinders, but their pizza just might be the best kept secret

in Kalamazoo. “We don’t skimp on the toppings,” says Barnhart. There are many toppings they will happily pile on for you; pepperoni, sausage, green and black olives, onion, banana peppers, jalapenos, green peppers, pineapple, mushrooms and a top choice among pizza lovers -- crumbled bacon! In the nearly twenty years of operating Angelo’s Italian Eatery, Barnhart has perfected the crust and sauce, and customers have given a big thumbs up!

A big reason grinders are so popular at Angelo’s is the bread. Angelo’s makes their Italian white dough fresh daily, and as they state on the menu, “Italians Dough it Better! We’re Worth the Trip!” The Italian Deluxe; Italian sausage, ham, salami and mozzarella is a long-time favorite, but there are over twenty grinder combinations like BBQ Pork, Seafood, All Meat Combo -- roast beef, turkey, ham, mozzarella, lettuce and mayo -- and vegetarian selections, too!

There are appetizers, home-made spaghetti, Chicken Fettuccini Alfredo, calzones, nachos, soups, salads, beverages and desserts -- and a children’s menu!

Angelo’s Italian Eatery is located in the Airview Plaza next to the airport on Portage Road.

Tales roadFROM THE

Williamston, michigan

By Steve Ellis

Williamston is located east of Lansing on Grand River Avenue (M-43) and has a population of about 3,900. The Red Cedar River runs through the middle of town.

The area started as the crossroads of the Grand River and Saginaw Indian Trails. It was first occupied by a small band of the Saginaw tribe of the Chippewa People which by the mid-19th century used the area as a ‘summer village.” They used Williamston for planting crops, burying their dead, and an annual spring gathering,

The area was settled by Europeans in 1834 when Hiram and Joseph Putnam moved briefly to the area from Jackson. They spent less than one year in the area, planting and then harvesting one crop of oats.

In 1839, the Putnam’s sold their land to Oswald B., James M., and Horace B. Williams, three brothers from New York James M. “Miles” Williams, who built a dam, sawmill and later a grist mill in town, eventually platted the land in 1845 and named the town “Williamstown” after himself. It is unknown how it lost the “w” in its name.

The town was a popular stop on the Grand River trail that later became a plank road from Detroit to Lansing in the 19th century. Because the primary means of transportation at that time was the horse and buggy and because the trip from Detroit to Lansing took more than one day, Williamston became a convenient overnight stop.

The town was incorporated as a village in 1871, and later as a city on April 1, 1945.

In driving back from my my old hometown of Waterford on I-69, we would sometimes stop at The Antique Market of Williamston just off the highway. This was my glimpse at Williamston and I had not ventured into downtown Willimston in 25 years or more.

former National Bank Building has been repurposed into a classic tavern with updated flair. The interior includes exposed brick, original columns and plank flooring. Zynda’s is longtime locally owned restaurant and bar serving Southwestern fare.

Back in August after a trip to visit my sister and and brother, rather than hopping on the highway at M-59 and US-23, I decided to take the old Grand River Ave through Howell, Fowlerville , Webberville and Williamston and enjoyed the ride. It didn’t hurt that it was a gorgeous Michigan day, perfect for taking the old, two-lane highway through these classic small towns.

Williamston was the highlight of my small town travels. I was pleasantly surprised at how downtown Williamston has been rejuvenated and I spent an hour walking through the downtown area, stopping into a handful of interesting business.

My first stop was at the Sunday farmers market next to the Red Cedar River that once housed a dam and gristmill. Looking closely, a few traces of the old dam can still be seen.

I treated myself to a delicious blueberry milkshake at Spad’s Twisters and peaked into a handful of interesting eateries, which will come in handy for my next visit.

Ellie’s Country Kitchen appears to be a great place for breakfast and lunch for the whole family. The Bistro had quite an extensive menu and Tavern 109 in the

I walked by the classic Sun Theatre, build in 1947, and would love to see a movie there someday. Barrett’s Books in the historic Barrett’s Building, offers a large collection of quirky and unusual titles.The Studio shop-carries a large selection of Michigan made gifts. The Artisan Alcove Gallery And Gifts has a very eclectic selection of unique, one of a kind pieces of art.

My favorite store in Williamston was Vintage Sound, packed with vintage stereo equipment, radios, guitars and vinyl records - it was like walking into a music museum!

After heading out of town I drove past the popular Old Nation Brewery that brews the well-known and very good, M-43 India Pale Ale.

My trip would fit well into Robert Frost’s famous The Road Not Taken poem-“I took the road less traveled by, and that has made all the difference.”

3 Keys to Healthy Living: Diet. Exercise. Vaccination

Don Saldia, RN, BSN, Interim Director Kalamazoo County Area Agency on Aging

There’s been a lot of talk about the COVID-19 vaccine over the past couple years. But that’s not the only immunization that should be on our minds.

There remains a list of longstanding vaccines that have been tested over time and proven to help keep people of all ages safe from debilitating disease.

Whatever your feelings about the COVID-19 shot, it’s important to touch base with your doctor or local health department to make sure you’re up to date on other immunizations that go a long way toward keeping you healthy into the future.

“It’s being proactive in your health care to stay up to date with your vaccinations,” said Don R. Saldia, Division Chief of Older Adult Services with the Kalamazoo County Area Agency on Aging.

“There is that question (about routine immunizations now because of concerns with the COVID-19 vaccine): Can it be trusted? Yes, it can.”

Take, for example, the tetanus shot. The diphtheria, tetanus and acellular pertussis vaccine is a big one in childhood, with four recommended doses in the first 18 months of life and a fifth by the time a child starts school. It’s also advised to get a tetanus booster once every 10 years through adulthood.

Tetanus is an infection caused by bacteria that can enter your body through something as simple as a cut or scrape. Staying up to date with your tetanus vaccine not only shields you from the potentially serious or even deadly symptoms of tetanus, but also protects against the diseases diphtheria and whooping cough, all with the same vaccine!

“The tetanus vaccine is safe,” Saldia said. “It’s proven. It’s one of those things you can do to protect yourself.”

Another important vaccine to get in adulthood is for shingles (also known as Zoster). If you’ve had chickenpox as a child, the same virus remains in your body and can emerge in adulthood as shingles, a rash that can be incapacitating and cause excruciating pain.

The likelihood of developing shingles increases with age, as people’s immune systems tend to weaken. That’s why a shingles vaccine, called Shingrix, is recommended for people ages 50 and over. With two doses of Shingrix two to six months apart, you can protect yourself from shingles.

“When we’re younger, we have stronger immune systems. Once we start reaching older ages, our immune system starts weakening,” said Cassaundra A. Bailey, the agency’s quality assurance & compliance

coordinator. “(By staying up to date with recommended immunizations), you’re ensuring that your immune system is going to be better protected against everything.”

See the Vaccine Checklist from Kalamazoo County’s Area Agency on Aging

COVID-19 disrupted the world the past two years. The virus also has had a dangerous side effect: It has disrupted the normal routine for many of us. Maybe we haven’t gotten out and about as much. Maybe we’ve experienced social isolation. Maybe we haven’t been seeing the doctor or the dentist regularly.

Just as visiting the dentist and getting regular preventive cleanings is vital to the health of our teeth, so is going to the doctor and keeping a regular schedule of immunizations. Vaccines are an essential part of our overall health care, and it’s crucial not to neglect them – either in childhood or as we age in adulthood.

“As people are starting to come back to normal life our immune systems are a little bit more weakened because we haven’t been around each other, so having those vaccinations up to date is important,” said Beverly Allen, program manager with the Kalamazoo Area Agency on Aging. “Especially for our older adult population, it will give them that peace of mind that they are protected.”

Because there are fewer recommended vaccines for adults than for children, it can be easy to forget that you need them. Yet, immunizations are vitally important to your health. Talk to your doctor to make sure you’re up to date with all of the immunizations recommended for your age and health.