Good News December 2016

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December 2016

free

paper

GOOD NEWS

December 2016

Come and enjoy our new locations and be charmed by

Downtown Mattawan

-Boutique Oz-

24028 Front Ave. 269-668-9200 facebook.com/theboutiqueoz Instagram: @theboutiqueoz www.theboutiqueoz.com

-Refuge Salon-Boutique24032 Front Ave. 269-668-9048 facebook.com/refugehairspace Instagram: @refuge_salon_boutique www.refugesalon.space

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December 2016

GOOD NEWS

Experts Q & A Foot Health

Dentist

Q: I’m interested in giving a gift to promote good health this holiday, do you have any suggestions?

Q: I’m embarrassed to smile. Can you help me smile again?

A: Yes, grounding/earthing footwear would be a Steven Smith great choice. According to C.Ped.,MC. existing studies they are known to increase energy, promote healing, fight fatigue and support a more normalized body state. Because of the barefoot like sensation, this footwear enables the earth’s natural energy in the form of free electrons to one’s body.

The Shoe Smith now carries Pluggz™ grounding/earthing shoes. Every pair naturally reconnects you to the earth’s energy that lies right beneath your feet. This happens when you walk directly on the ground – whether it’s grass, soil, sand, gravel, stone, tiles, brick and even concrete sidewalks too.

Stop in and see our selection of fashionable grounding footwear today!

A: There are many options to improve Susan M. Dennis your smile. We D.D.S. are able to give you the smile of your dreams with minimum-prep veneers. Little to no tooth reduction is needed and they are extremely durable to remain resilient for many years. Your veneers will be created with your facial profile and personality in mind. They look natural and are done in as little as two visits.

Call our office today to schedule your complimentary cosmetic consultation and smile enhancement imaging.

The Shoe Smith 6210 S Westnedge Ave, Portage (269) 327-0204 www.theshoesmith.biz

8150 Moorsbridge - Suite A - Portage, Michigan 269-216-9523 www.mydrdennis.com

Susan M. Dennis, D.D.S.

Share your expertise with thousands of readers by advertising in this targeted feature please contact: Jackie Merriam (269) 217-0977 goodnews.jackie@gmail.com

remember when Frank’s nursery & crafts

Frank’s Nursery & Crafts, specializing in shrubs, trees, accent plants, flowers, lawn furniture and crafts had two locations in this area, one was in Portage at 325 Mall Dr., which is now a Dollar Store, and the other was located in Kalamazoo at 5474 W. Main Street, and is now a Dunham’s Sports.

What started, as a food market,

called Franks Market in 1942 by Frank Sherr and Max Weinberg on the northeast side of Detroit, became a chain of stores, with 170 outlets across 14 states.

The original Franks Market expanded to sell Christmas trees, annuals, and other plants in addition to its mainstay of produce and other goods and in 1949; the owners pur-

chased a vacant lot across the street from the market to house the growing number of plants the market offered. The owners realized that the profits from the plants were more profitable than the grocery items, so they began selling ferns, trees, lawn chemicals, and other landscaping supplies as well.

The business thrived, and in 1957 the company—by then four stores strong—incorporated, becoming Frank’s Nursery Sales, Inc. By 1965 Frank’s owned 18 stores throughout Michigan, and its sales were $11.35 million.

Since lawn-and-garden sales were dependent on season, the business was cyclical in nature, with highest revenues during the growing season.

This led the owners to devise a plan to keep sales high during the winter months. In 1966, Frank’s Trims, a store that only sold craft goods, opened its doors.

By its 25th anniversary in 1971, Frank’s son, I. William Sherr, who had previously served the company as executive vice-president and

treasurer, succeeded Frank Sherr.

Max Weinberg continued to serve as company president.

In 1980, Frank’s Nursery Sales officially changed its name to Frank’s Nursery & Crafts, Inc. to emphasize both the lawn-and-garden and craft sector of its operation.

In 1983, General Host Corporation purchased Frank’s Nursery & Crafts. Frank’s, at that time, spanned 95 stores. Following its acquisition by General Host Corporation, Frank’s used its parent company’s wealth to go on an acquisition spree with the ultimate goal of becoming the first national garden center chain in the United States. In addition to the acquisitions, the company also expanded its footprint southward, with new stores in Virginia, Florida, Georgia, and Tennessee.

In September 2004, Frank’s Nursery & Crafts filed for bankruptcy and closed all of its 170 stores.

Jackie Merriam

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December 2016

GOOD NEWS

Welcome to the Good News Paper

National Fruitcake day is on December 27th, these traditional holiday cakes have remained popular for thousands of years, and are quite possibly the most popular item for re-gifting - 38% say they give fruitcakes away when they receive them.

Fruitcake is a cake made with chopped candied fruit and/or dried fruit, nuts and spices and some are soaked in spirits. Most people are either in one camp or the other in regards to fruitcakes. Camp 1 – you love fruitcake and can’t wait for the yummy holiday treat each year. You are also very likely to give fruitcakes as gifts. Camp 2 – you can’t understand why fruitcakes have been popular for thousands of years and do not enjoy this cake. You are also very likely part of the 38% re-gifting statistic.

I have to admit that I’m in Camp 2. It’s one of the few sweet things,

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(along with mincemeat pie), that I have never acquired a taste for. To be fair, maybe the only fruitcakes I’ve ever tasted are of the re-gifted varieties that have sat on one shelf or another for years. Which brings me to a fun fact about fruitcakes – the ones that have been soaked in spirits will last a good long time. In and article on December 24, 2003, in the Tuscaloosa News, Jay Leno sampled one such cake that was 125 years old.

An unusual use for fruitcake began in 1995 in Manitou Springs, Colorado, when they began hosting the Great Fruitcake Toss on the first Saturday of every January. The all-time Great Fruitcake Toss record is 1,420 feet, set in January 2007 by a group of eight Boeing engineers who built the “Omega 380,” a mock artillery piece fueled by compressed air pumped by an exercise bike.

Now we have the perfect excuse to visit Colorado this January – I wonder if fruitcake will make it through airport security?

Jackie Merriam

Graphic Designer: Lauren Ellis Editor and Publisher: Jackie Merriam (269) 217-0977 - goodnews.jackie@gmail.com Like us on Facebook!

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December 2016

GOOD NEWS

Thrift, Vintage, Antiques, Repurposed, Artisan & Hand Made Stitching Memories

Decorate with Timeless Style

Gifts & gift certificates

for your favorite stitcher Antiques Collectables & More

Knitting Crochet Needlepoint CrossStitch

Great Selection Exquisite Pieces

In the Airview Plaza on Portage Road 5401 Portage Road - Portage – 552-9276 Stitchingmem.com

8411 N. 32nd St., Richland 760-1682 Fri. 11-5, Sat. 10-5, Sun. 11-4

Thousands of gently used books at a fraction of the retail cost!

We sell gift certificates too!

FRIENDS BOOKSTORE

Kalamazoo Public Library Lower-Level 315 S. Rose St. Wed. 12-7, Thur.-Sat. 10-4 friends@kpl.gov • kpl.gov/friends

Stitching Memories Mary Stillman, owner of Stitching Memories fell into the stitching business quite unexpectedly almost 20 years ago. Her sister, Laura, wanted to open a business and Mary suggested filling the niche that was vacated when The Stitchery closed. Laura, an avid stitcher, thought it was a great idea and the stitching venture began. Laura left the business after a year or so, and Mary became the sole owner.

Stitching Memories offers all of your knitting, crochet, cross-stitch and needlepoint needs. They have hundreds of yarn varieties from lace to chunky. They offer finishing services, blocking, framing and a variety of classes that can be found on their website.

Their original location was on Milham Rd., which was soon outgrown and the business was moved to Gladys St., just off of Westnedge in a building that Mary and her husband purchased. They have since sold the building and moved to 5401 Portage Rd. in the Airview Plaza.

The store has 7 part-time workers who are knowledgeable and passionate about stitching. A typical Monday at Stitching Memories is a lot of fun because they have a social knitting circle that begins at 11am.

They share stitching advice, work on their projects and even bring their lunches to eat together. Mary says customers are welcome to come in any day to stitch and ask advice.

Don’t miss their lock-ins on the second Friday of every month from 6-10 pm.

They also offer Make-it, Take-it projects during the month of December - you can make a gift from start to finish in less than 3 hours.

Experience a warm welcome by shopping locally at Stitching Memories.

For more information, visit their website stitchingmem.com, visit their Facebook Page, call 552-9276 or visit the store Mon, Wed., Thurs. Fri., 10am-6pm, Tues. 10am8pm or Sat. 10am-4pm.

December 2016

Home Decor

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GOOD NEWS

The Perfectly Wrapped Christmas Gift

Boxes under the tree wrapped with colorful paper, crisp edges and glorious bows evoke a sense of excitement and anticipation - one of the many magical elements of the holiday season.

Whether I’m giving or receiving, I’ve always appreciated a nicely wrapped gift. I realize in the big scheme of things, it may seem frivolous to be overly concerned with packaging - because what truly matters is the thought behind the gift. But there is something special about a beautifully wrapped gift, where the giver has taken the time to ensure every detail is perfect. It makes whatever is wrapped within feel that more special.

When I sit down to wrap my gifts, I want the wrapping of my gifts to reflect the time, energy and thoughtfulness I put into selecting their gift. It’s why you wear your best clothes on an interview or a date. Your resume or conversation represents the gift itself, “what you look like on the inside” and your appearance is the beautiful packaging. For me, when you take time to beautifully wrap a gift, you are setting the expectation that your gift is a thoughtful expression of yourself and regardless of what’s inside, your thoughtfulness will be felt.

Challenging Shapes

It’s nearly impossible to wrap a

$5 off

gift that is oddly shaped. If possible, purchase a box that your gift will fit into neatly . Boxes can be pricey, but there are many affordable options.

Personally, I like boxes that can be reused time and time again, which is better for the environment and is also a bonus gift. I opt for the kraft boxes that can be used throughout the year.

The Inside Counts Too

For me, tissue paper is a must.

It insulates the gift from banging around inside the box and adds an additional layer of surprise. That extra layer of texture shows you’ve gone even further to make the gift feel special. Plus, you can wrap several smaller items within one box as well and tissue paper will help separate them nicely.

Wrapping Paper Alternatives

If you’re out of wrapping paper or you simply want to use something different, there are many creative alternative options. White Butcher Paper or Kraft Paper is a great alternative to traditional papers.

You can purchase a large roll at Gordon Foods or other specialty food store that can be used for any occasion throughout the year. By simply tying with beautiful ribbons you create a festive and seasonally appropriate gift.

In pinch or low on funds? Use newsprint for your paper or upcycle brown paper grocery bags as wrapping paper. The key to making your wrapped gift feel special doesn’t necessarily matter what you use, but how you use it. If you have nice crisp edges, hidden seams and adorn the box with beautiful bows, ribbons or even tied with string your package will express the love and thoughtfulness you’re hoping to give.

Personalize It

Name tags can add a lot of color and are a fun way to add glam to your gift. Adding a black and white photo of your recipient on the front is a cool alternative. It doesn’t have to be just ribbons and bows! I love using sprigs of evergreen, a small ornament, their favorite candy or

even a small unwrapped gift to the top of a gift. It’s a bit of the unexpected that makes a huge impact.

Leave it to the Pro’s

If wrapping is just not for you, consider having your gifts professionally wrapped. We offer free gift wrapping for all of our guests at HITE HOUSE and many other local retailers offer free gift wrapping too, or at the very least offer it for a small fee.

Wishing you a blessed Merry Christmas & Happy New Year from all of us at HITE HOUSE! Julie Hite-Neilitz of HITE HOUSE Home Furnishings www.hite-house.com New Location: 6360 Stadium Drive

purchase of $25 or more Expires 12/31/16 TOH16

4502 W. Main St. - Kalamazoo (Westwood Plaza) 349-0849 drizzled.org

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December 2016

GOOD NEWS

pets THE PLIGHT OF BLACK CATS AND DOGS Every pet adoption is a life saved, but in the case of black cats and dogs, you’re saving a life that’s at an even higher risk of being cut short. ~ Sarah It is an unfortunate and sad fact that color, black to be specific,

Syndrome, and these animals become the unfortunate victims of this tragic problem. By bringing this plight to our readers’ attention, KAR hopes to save as many lives as we can for the black dogs and cats awaiting new homes.

There are many reasons why people overlook an animal in a shelter or rescue, but more often than not, black cats and dogs face this unhappy truth because of their dark coat. As a result, they have a harder time finding a new home. Shelter and rescue workers see wonderful, adoptable pets passed by as they languish in their

contributes to hundreds of cats and dogs being euthanized each year. It is known among rescue groups as the Black Cat and Dog

Find Your Outdoor Adventure Gifts at Lee’s

Lee’s has great gifts for the whole family.

Check out all the warm winter wear from all the best brands. Plus see our selection of ski, snowboard and xc ski equipment.

Stop in today!

Lee’s Adventure Sports 311 W. Kilgore Rd. Portage, Mi. 49002 269 381 7700 LeesAdventureSports.com

cage because they do not stand out as well or photograph as clearly.

They do not have distinctive coloring like a calico cat or a Dalmatian with spots, and are therefore not as highly sought after. If the kittens and puppies are not euthanized, then they are very likely to grow up in a rescue, making it even harder to gain adopter’s interests.

Many people in this country have superstitions and believe that black cats and dogs are unlucky; however, the opposite is true for our British counterparts. For instance, owning a black cat is supposed to bring good fortune and bless your family and home.

In fact, most cultures see black cats and dogs as being a prized possession.

Even if you are unable to adopt another animal, please help spread the word to friends and family that black dogs and cats make excellent companions. Perhaps they will think twice when selecting their next pet. For those of us who share our lives with these animals, we know that color means absolutely nothing so far as temperament and behavior go. Black cats and dogs make wonderful additions to the family and are just as playful, loving and intelligent as animals with more “interesting” markings.

Join KAR in taking action to stop the Black Cat and Dog Syndrome before more feline and canine companions are destroyed due to color.

Danielle Wallis KAR Newsletter May, 2009 Reprinted with permission from Kalamazoo Animal Rescue

December 2016

Vintage

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GOOD NEWS

Baby, it’s cold outside!

So, here we are in December already. And it’s cold! When it comes to vintage wear, that’s not a bad thing. It just means it’s time to break out those beautiful vintage coats with all of their glorious details! Here’s a quick run-down of some basics through the decades, in case you need some tips or pointers to get you started.

Let’s begin with the 1920’s, always a great place to visit! The Jazz Age offered curved shapes with large fur collars, providing a warmth and style like no other.

The coats themselves were usually quite simple, typically with a single button closure and a bare minimum of decorations so as not to detract from the luxurious fur, and it was

1970’s winter coat

really all about the high fashion outfits underneath at this time!

The 1930’s switched things up a bit by embracing the Hollywood style with long, tailored velvet, tweed, wool, and faux fur winter coats. Many women back then had to choose wisely, often only having one coat to last them several winters. This is why the coats tended to be more simple or bland so that they could be worn often and for years to come. Think quality over quantity, a lesson we can all learn from!

By the 1940’s, coat styles had restrictions due to WWll rationings. Most coats were made from wool and rayon-wool blends, many repurposed from wool blankets and coats and were long, just below the knee, with large shoulder pads and in herringbone, tan, gray dark green and navy colors to mimic the military coats.

Although this sounds somewhat drab, the simple design and cuts of these coats can be completely flattering and elegant!

By the 1950’s winter coats started to take on a life of their own, becoming more about fashion than practicality. One of the most popular 1940’s and ‘50’s styles was the polo coat or box coat.

This was cut very straight and wide, hanging just to mid hip with large cloth covered buttons. For evening, these coats were often made of velvet or exotic fur. There was also a long variation of

1940’s winter coats

the box coat, falling just below the knee, called the swagger coat. On the flip side of this was the 1950’s cinched waist or tightly belted coat.

This made coats appear child-like but also very feminine, which was the goal of 1950’s fashion.

Coat styles varied in the 1960’s.

Fur collars were still popular, but coat lengths and styles ran the gamut. Women often wore long wool or leather coats, maxi coats, with mini dresses or skirts to keep their legs warm. By the end of the ‘60’s Hippie fashion was in and leather and bohemian fashion were all the rage. This carried into the 1970’s with short and long leather coats, often decorated with vari-

ous fur accents. Colors and styles became bold and fun, defying tradition.

Keep in mind this winter that the wonderful thing about sporting a vintage coat, or any other piece of vintage, really, is that you can pick from a decade and decide what works for you. What fits you best?

Which decade speaks to you, captures your heart and is calling your name? Don’t be afraid to show your vintage love, to jump in and to stay warm this winter with style!

Jayne Gulliver Owner of J-Bird Vintage 511 W. Vine, Kalamazoo

Holiday Worship

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December 2016

GOOD NEWS

The top books published this month that librarians across the country love Faithful: A Novel

by Alice Hoffman

Moonglow: A Novel

by Michael Chabon

“With only a touch of her usual magical realism, Hoffman crafts a tale that still manages to enchant. In Faithful, a young girl who survives a car accident that almost kills her best friend spends the next decade doing penance to try and alleviate her guilt. Despite her best efforts to avoid it, love, hope, and forgiveness patiently shadow her as she slowly heals. Shelby is a complex character and through her internal growth Hoffman reveals that she is a person worthy of love, a bit of sorcery that readers will hold dear. Simply irresistible.”

“A grandson sits by his dying grandfather’s bedside as his grandfather slowly reveals the light and shadows of a marriage and of a family that kept secrets as a way of life. He learns of his grandmother’s life growing up during World War II; her coming to America and living with a man who kept to himself, even lying to her about his short time in prison. Chabon’s signature style includes carefully observed characters that are both new and familiar and shimmering prose that reflects and refracts light much as moonlight does.”

Sharon Layburn, South Huntington Public Library, Huntington Station, NY

Jennifer Winberry, Hunterdon County Library, Flemington, NJ

I’ll Take You There: A Novel

The Fate of the Tearling: A Novel

“I’ll Take You There is delightfully entertaining, funny and a bit mystical with wonderful connections to old movies and movie stars. Felix Funicello runs a Monday night film club which meets in an old theater. One evening, he is visited by the ghost of a female director from the silent film era.

She takes him on a journey to his past where Felix sees scenes on the screen which help him gain an understanding of women who have been important to him throughout his life. This novel is insightful and inspirational in connecting scenes from the past with our present day society.”

“It’s been fascinating to watch the Tearling saga evolve into a riveting blend of fantasy and dystopian fiction with characters developing in unexpected but satisfying ways into people I really care about. With the introduction of new characters in the town, a third timeline is woven into the story, leading to a plot twist that I did not see coming at all.

This book has given me lots to think about–community, leadership, the use and abuse of power–and makes me want to reread all three books.”

Marilyn Sieb, L.D. Fargo Library, Lake Mills, WI

Beth Mills, New Rochelle Public Library, New Rochelle, NY

by Wally Lamb

by Erika Johansen

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

What's New? I am proud to call 8719 Gull Road at the Village Common home for Balanced Body Health, LLC. Richland is wonderful town offering a good variety of businesses to cater to most needs.

At BBH my mission is to provide individualized, sustained health through effective and healing body work with attention to joint mechanics, range of motion, and deep tissue to bone medical massage.

I started my business with the intent to become an allied health field provider. Depending upon your insurance plan, I can offer a universal code for reimbursement through your insurer.

Health care has taken so many turns over the last year or two and more people are seriously looking into alternative methods for rehabilitation and general health maintenance. This is critical no matter our age.

While a relaxing massage is sure way to allow the body to heal and regenerate, site-specific work over a period of treatment time can have excellent results for people who would otherwise depend upon surgery or be maintained on medications.

Ellen Bennett, L-CMT Balanced Body Health, LLC. 8719 Gull Road - Richland - 269.615.4803 balancedbodyhealthllc@gmail.com balancedbodyhealth.massagetherapy.com

With the holidays approaching, a gift certificate is a thoughtful way to say “I care.”

Please feel free to stop by the office to pick one up!

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December 2016

GOOD NEWS

In Search of our Super-Powers A Mother and Daughter Adventure Series

Jane: After decades of spending too much time shopping for Christmas, and buying too many gifts, and donating half what I received to charities in January, it was time to make a change. Last Christmas season both our daughters were looking for new jobs and were experiencing uncertainty in where they would be living next. Similarly, my husband and I wanted to reduce our possession, not add to them. A pile of gifts had lost its appeal for every one of us.

So we had a family meeting to come up with a plan. The idea was to reduce stress before Christmas; return to a spiritual focus, and to lighten our loads after the holidays

were over. We tossed around possible solutions such as: drawing names and giving to only one person; limiting spending to $5/ person; eliminating gift-giving altogether; or gift cards. These left us feeling uninspired, Scrooge-ish, or more pressured.

“What we need is a theme,” I said. “Something that invokes the

Christmas spirit of love, giving, and simplicity.”

Then we tossed around some themes. We could give each other food gifts? Maybe donate money to worthy causes? Buy only free trade, organic, or low-carbon footprint products? This still felt complicated and stressful.

Then Ellen suggested, “How

about if each of us picks the theme that means most to them? It would be heartfelt and we could give everyone all the same the thing so the shopping would be simple.”

Everyone’s face lit up like Christmas trees.

Jane and Ellen Knuth

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December 2016

Day Trip Now that the holiday rush is upon us, take a moment to spend time with family and friends to discover the origins of our holiday traditions from the 1800’s. See how the settlers lived and celebrated during winter in the Michigan wilderness — when candles lit the long nights, and decorations were made from objects found in nature.

The air will be filled with music and the scent of fresh pine boughs and gingerbread in the historic DeLano Homestead. Create your own tradition and enjoy the wonders of the season.

•Make gingerbread cookies and crafts •Listen to live music in the parlor •Stroll to the 1830s log cabin replica •Try your hand at candle making •Take an old-fashioned horsedrawn wagon ride (weather permitting) •Warm up with cider and a cookie •Watch skilled spinners, weavers, and blacksmiths demonstrate their crafts

History of the Delano Homestead

William Smith DeLano (18191901) was a southwestern Michi-

GOOD NEWS

Holidays at the DeLano Homestead Sunday, December 11, 1-4pm

gan pioneer settler. He built this modest Greek Revival-style house in 1858. A native of western New York State, DeLano came to the area with an uncle in 1837. He first worked clearing farms for neighbors. In 1843, at the age of twenty-three, he purchased 40 acres and began the family farmstead.

By 1854, DeLano owned over 100 acres; by 1880 he had 235 acres.

Over the years, DeLano’s sons continued to purchase neighboring lands.

The family eventually acquired over 600 acres.

Members of the family lived on the farm until 1963. For several years afterwards, the house was neglected. In 1968 the Kalamazoo Nature Center acquired the structure and most of the original DeLano farm. The farmhouse was restored and opened to the public in 1975. The historical name is William Smith DeLano.

Regular Kalamazoo Nature Cen-

ter rates apply for this event: Members: Free Adults: $7/Seniors $6 Children & Students (4-17) $4 Children 3 & under: Free

Bring your family and friends to the beautifully decorated DeLano Homestead for a step back in time.

Located at 555 West E Avenue in Kalamazoo, within the Kalamazoo Nature Center.

2105 Lake Street Kalamazoo, MI 49001

Senior Lunch Menu

2105 Lake Street Kalamazoo, MI 49001 11-2 PM

Half of Walnut Chicken Salad Senior Lunch Menu

Walnuts, cranberries, apple slices, andPM raspberry vinaigrette dressing, 11-2 served with our fresh baked bread.

Order Your Holiday Caramels & Chocolates Today!

Half of Half Walnut Chicken Salad Chef Salad

Ham, turkey, hard-boiled egg, raspberry cheese, tomato, Walnuts, cranberries, apple slices, and vinaigrette dressing, onion, cucumber and bacon, served with our fresh baked bread. served with our fresh baked bread.

Hot beefChef sandwich Half Salad

Half of a hot beef sandwich served with potatoes and gravy.

Ham, turkey, hard-boiled egg, cheese, tomato, onion, cucumber andAbacon, served with our fresh baked bread.

Cup and A Half

A cup of our house made soup and a half of a sandwich. *Excludes Burgers

HotFishbeef and sandwich Chips

Half of aOne hot piece beef sandwich served with potatoes of Corona battered Cod and fries. and gravy.

Chicken Strips A Cup and A Half Two chicken strips served with fries.

S to p in & E

H o t C h o c o la te n jo y !

Bar

A cup of our house made soup and a half of a sandwich. *Excludes Burgers All Senior (65 and older) items include your choice of Fountain Soda, Coffee, or Tea. One piece of Corona battered Codorand fries.

6.99 +Tax Not valid with any other offer special.

Fish and Chips

Chicken Strips • 345-0220 2105 Lake Street, Kalamazoo Two chicken strips served with fries.

You can also find our caramels, turtles & specialty chocolates at

the Farmers’ Market, Beer & Skittles, Serafino’s, The Cheese Lady, Sawall’s, Tudor House Spice & Tea, ChocolaTea, Food Dance & Cherri’s Chocol’art.

245 S. Kalamazoo Mall • www.cherrischocolart.com • 269-998-7339

All Senior (65 and older) items include your choice of Fountain Soda,

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December 2016

Show your local pride with fun t-shirts from The Spirit of Kalamazoo, including shirts promoting Kalamazoo, WMU, Kalamazoo College, Pure Michigan and even craft beer. They offer a wide assortment of sizes ranging from Infant through 2XL. The Spirit of Kalamazoo also carries other themed clothing items and merchandise, pottery and license plate signs created by local artists. In addition, they offer up to 24 flavors of Plainwell Ice Cream year-round.

The Spirit of Kalamazoo owners, Andrew and Kathleen Widner, opened the store in 2011 on Portage Street. In early November, they moved the store to the Kalamazoo Mall (In the former OptiMed Pharmacy building). The new space is 50% larger than their previous location and will allow them more room to display their merchandise, expand product lines and offer more seating for ice cream lovers to enjoy their treats.

They are grateful to the community for their support and patronage. “To reach the five-year milestone and to be able to move to a prime spot on the Kalamazoo Mall is really exciting. We are so grateful to our staff, the community and visitors to the area who have shopped at our store,” said Andrew.

Kathleen works part-time in the store along with 6 part-time employees. Andrew works a regular

WE OPEN THE DAY AFTER THANKSGIVING

GOOD NEWS

shift at the store once a week, in addition to his full time job at the Kellogg Biological Station.

They pride themselves on offering an inviting venue with friendly service and unique products at fair prices.

The Widner’s both agree that their greatest enjoyment from the business is the people that they meet, including customers, staff and the out-of-town visitors from

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Stop in to The Spirit of Kalamazoo today to enjoy some good old-fashioned ice cream and pick up some unique spirit wear for you or for holiday gift giving. They are located at 154 S. Kalamazoo Mall.

For more information, please call (269) 382-6249 or visit their website at spiritofkalamazoo.com.

Jackie Merriam

The Necchi sewing machines have arrived.

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December 2016

Kalamazoo Valley Community College’s Havirmill Cafe is now open at the Bronson Healthy Living Campus The student-run Havirmill Café opened to the public in October.

The Café is located in the Culinary and Allied Health Building, 418 East Walnut Street.

“The café classroom is part of Kalamazoo Valley’s “Menus That Matter” Culinary Arts & Sustainable Food Systems program and provides students with a hands-on experience in a working café,” according to John Korycki, Director of Culinary Education. “We welcome our guests to be a part of our students’ classroom experience.”

The café will be open between 11:30 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. Tuesday through Friday. “A variety of soups, salads and sandwiches will be prepared by our students following recipes from the healthiest cuisines of the world. Our menus will

change frequently based on the seasonal availability of locally sourced ingredients,” said Korycki.

Much of the produce for the meals prepared at the café are grown at the Food Innovation Center, located at 224 E. Crosstown Parkway, in the 9,500 square foot greenhouse or in the large indoor growing lab using hydroponics and aquaponics.

Chef Lucas McFarland, Culinary Storeroom Manager, works directly with local farms in procuring eggs, chicken, beef, pork and lamb for their kitchen lab classes and Menus.

The café blends a quick-service “grab & go” concept with a small “a la carte” menu of made-to-order

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GOOD NEWS grilled vegetable hoagie with pesto, open-faced BBQ chicken sandwich and a kale & fried egg salad. They also offer an extensive salad bar that includes homemade, nutritious salad dressing choices.

They have nutritional bottled drinks, iced and hot tea, coffee and naturally infused sodas prepared by the students – including a recent beverage creation, the Valley Sunrise, a peach, lime and lavender soda.

For daily menus and cafe schedule visit their Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/ KVculinaryeats. Be sure to check their Facebook page ahead of time as the café reflects the student schedules and classes - closing during exams, breaks, etc.

During the month of December they will be open for lunch Tuesdays - Fridays through December 14th.

Early in the coming year, Havirmill Café will also be offering a fullservice dining experience.

Also be on the look out for nondegree cooking classes that will be offered to the community.

items. The delicious A la Carte choices on a recent visit were:

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December 2016

GOOD NEWS

Mindful Parenting

When the kids are out of school it is a great time to make plans with each other and re-connect. Once the

gear seem new. Plus, pushing heavy objects gives some kids muscle and joint stimulation that helps them to be calm.

Have a “pajama day.” That is, plan a day where no one bothers to change out of their pajamas. We work hard all year to create our home and our lifestyle. Why not take one day just to wallow in it?

Indulge in holiday snacks, watch movies, and above all, be lazy. In modern society we live life at such a fast pace. It is important to rest and even to experience boredom once in a while.

Plan a random act of kindness together. Even if the holidays are over, it doesn’t mean giving has to stop. Kids often learn generosity very easily and they will have great ideas about what to do to express that generosity to others. Maybe

hustle and bustle of the holidays is over, don’t forget to take some time to share fun and new activities with your children. After all, memories are made from experiences. If winter has you hibernating, here are some ideas to get you started.

Collaborate on rearranging your child’s room. Some children might love to have input about how their space is arranged. Often my kid’s annual Christmas haul calls for some major organizing anyway. So it makes sense to move some furniture around in the process. Changing our environment helps stimulate the senses and makes our old

Socks

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Watches

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Books

winter Break

you could shovel a walkway for a neighbor or walk a dog at your local animal shelter. Small actions can make a big difference.

Teach your kids something new.

Sure, kids learn a lot in school, but there are many life skills that are important and are not necessarily found in a book. Remember you are a wealth of useful knowledge and teaching your kids is more valuable than you would think. Maybe they are old enough to learn basic car maintenance (even if they can’t drive yet, this is good to know).

Maybe there is a special skill you possess like juggling or knitting that you can pass on to the next generation. My husband’s dad is an electrician and there are times I sure wish he had taught my husband some basic electrical repair when my husband was young!

Hold a tournament. Maybe you have stacks of board games or a ping-pong table in the basement collecting dust. It’s time to use those things you bought to bring on the fun. If you don’t already have items like this, there are loads of ideas online for “minute to win it” or “boredom buster” games that only require common household items. This will present good opportunities to teach kids about taking turns and good sportsmanship. Plus it often leads to hilarious situations.

Winter break is a great occasion to be in the moment and enjoy our kids without having to focus on accomplishing the tasks of daily life.

Savor it while you can.

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December 2016

GOOD NEWS

Recipes Light ‘n’ Lively Libations T’is the season to be jolly but, more often than not, it’s also the season to be over-indulging in just about everything – even our cocktails! However, there are ways to make those drinks lighter, without affecting overall taste, One of my favorite ways to dial it down the calories is to simply add lots of ice. This not only dilutes the strength of the drink but also stretches it into additional servings. If you are afraid this will dilute the flavor, an alternative to ice is to fill the glass with frozen berries prior to adding any liquids. This not only takes up space in the glass, giving the illusion of more liquid but it also adds an extra shot of color, flavor and healthy antioxidants, too!

Another way to dial down the calories is to add flavorful mixers that are

low or no calorie.

If you need carbonation for a drink, try using club soda or sparkling water.

These have zero calories, naturally.

That said, the same cannot be said for tonic water. Most come in around 125 calories per twelve ounces so, be sure to not get those two mixers mixed up!

It’s also smart to avoid high proof spirits. As alcohol proof levels go up, so does their calorie counts. To lower the proof of cocktails even more, try watering down the spirits by simply adding some distilled water to their decanters.

Here now are a few fancy, festive ways to keep your holiday parties flowing as light ‘n’ lively as you see fit.

-1 bunch fresh mint, trimmed -1/2-cup sugar -1-cup light rum -1 1/4 cups fresh limejuice -3/4 cup frozen cranberry juice cocktail concentrate, thawed -2 10-ounce bottles sparkling water, chilled Using a wooden spoon, mash mint with sugar in bottom of large pitcher. Add rum and lime juice; stir to dissolve sugar. Mix in thawed cranberry juice concentrate and water. Mix in 6 cups ice.

Approximate servings per recipe: 8.

Laura Kurella

Festive Cranberry Fizz

-Ice cubes -1/2 ounce Sloe Gin -1/2 ounce Gin -8 ounces Cranberry Ginger Ale -Fresh cranberries and mint for garnish

Merry Christmas Mojito Punch

Fill a highball glass with ice cubes. Add the gin and sloe gin then top with cranberry ginger ale. Stir and garnish with fresh cranberries and mint leaves on a decorative skewer.

Approximate servings per recipe: 1.

Pomegranate Martinis

-1/2 of a medium orange, cut into wedges -Sugar -1 1/2 cups standard vodka or gin -1/3-cup grenadine -3 tablespoons dry vermouth -Ice cubes -Small pomegranates (optional)

Rub orange wedges around rims of 8 martini glasses. Invert glasses into a dish of sugar to coat rims; set glasses aside. In a small pitcher, combine the vodka, pomegranate syrup, and vermouth. Place ice cubes in a martini shaker. For each drink, add 1/4 cup of the syrup mixture; shake. Strain into one of the prepared martini glasses.

Garnish with a small pomegranate, if desired.

Approximate servings per recipe: 8.

Orange Option: Prepare as above, except use 3 tablespoons frozen orange juice concentrate, thawed, in place of the syrup. Omit garnish.

Apple Option: Prepare as above except use 1/3 cup frozen apple juice concentrate, thawed, in place of the syrup. Garnish with fresh orange peel curls.

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December 2016

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health pay to (dis)play

I came across a rather disconcerting article in the current issue of Nutrition Action, the monthly newsletter from the Center for Science in the Public Interest. I was surprised to discover that there is a serious pay to display system for companies who want to place their products in supermarket chains.

We have a hard enough time trying our best to make healthy choices when we’re shopping for groceries. However, it’s clear that “big food” manufacturers like Frito Lay, Nestle’, PepsiCo, Coca-Cola, and Mondelez (Oreo, Triscuits and Nabisco) have an enormous influence in what we buy and subsequently eat.

It turns out that big companies pay big fees to display their products. And they’re more than happy to do it because they favor the big players, who, in turn, get to place their products at several locations throughout the store. Soda, for example, can be found in the soda aisle, next to the deli sandwiches, in a cooler at the checkout line, and on end caps. Next time you’re shopping in a supermarket, play “where’s the

soda” and see how many displays there really are. I think you’ll be surprised.

So, if you’re an enterprising entrepreneur and have come up with an organic and healthy food option that tastes absolutely great, you’re going to have to “run with the big dogs” and pay to have your product displayed. Assuming you can afford the placement fee, otherwise there is no guarantee that your product will be visible. You may get a bottom shelf location beneath a nationally recognized product that is now featuring a BOGO (buy-oneget-one free) offer.

I was surprised to find out that, even in a supermarket, there is “beachfront property.” Where is it?

If you guessed the checkout aisle, you’re right. The average price for just a few months of shelf display in the checkout aisle (are you sitting down?) works out to $3 to $5 per inch! That’s correct per inch! So if the average candy bar is 6 inches, it could cost more than $5 million for the candy bar to secure a spot on the checkout shelf in the 50 largest national chains for several months.

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Now I understand why there’s a candy bar named $100,000.

Why would food manufacturers pay such high prices? Because the demand for shelf space in the checkout aisle is so high that supermarkets can charge it and, more importantly, manufacturers are willing to pay it.

Market research has shown that nearly two-thirds of shoppers never go down the candy aisle. In some stores, candy can be hard to find.

(I know by experience when I’m trying to find dark chocolate.) But everyone goes through the checkout aisle and that’s where a lot of the impulse shopping decisions are made.

The reality is that there is little money to be made on the 2-liter bottle of soda. That’s true for the retailer as well as the bottler. But the 20 ounce soda in the cooler near the checkout aisle reaps huge profits, often costing more than the 2 liter bottle. The same is true for chips and snacks. Chip manufacturers make more money on a small $1.50 bag that people buy while waiting in line than on the larger bags in

GOOD NEWS

the chip aisle.

This is a very sad situation indeed.

Many shoppers are demanding healthier food choices. But if you, as a small producer, don’t have the money to pay for shelf space, you can’t play the game - even if you are successful in getting your product into the market.

I like to end my articles on a positive note and offer some concrete strategies for addressing issues.

However, I admit to scratching my head over this.

Still, in the end, we are in control of what we buy. There certainly are healthy food options in our supermarkets; all we have to do is to understand how the system works.

We certainly can make our lists at home and go on “treasure hunts” and try to find them. Another option is to patronize stores that only feature healthy products. The more we support them, the more successful they will become.

Till next time, Ken Dettloff, ACE Personal Trainer.

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December 2016

GOOD NEWS

Downtown Mattawan With the help of three grants and contributions from the Downtown Development Authority (DDA) and the Village, Downtown Mattawan has undergone improvements and infrastructure upgrades in the heart of the downtown area along Murray and Front Streets.

A high-tech parking lot that includes an electric car charging station and a small park was added at the corner of Murray and Front Streets.

Storm drains, water lines and water mains were replaced and a new water retention pond was constructed just west of the Mattawan Village Hall.

The Streetscape updates include new sidewalks and cross walks, along with plantings and lampposts.

A few dilapidated buildings were also demolished and grass was planted – a community meeting will be held to discuss ideas for development of this prime downtown space.

The total expenditures for the revitalization project came to $1,618,870, Grants accounted for $867,400, Village Contributions totaled $235,725 and DDA Contributions were $515,745.

The Village Of Mattawan traces its beginnings to a federal land

grant given to Nathaniel Cheesboro, an attorney for the Michigan Central Railroad, in 1839. With the completion of the railroad, Mr. Cheesboro named the station “Mattawan” after a town on the Hudson River in New York. Lyman Lawrence filed the first town plat in

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1850 and called it Mattawan, after the name given the railroad station, which is an Indian word meaning “Good Pelts.”

The Village of Mattawan offers small-town charm in the downtown area, featuring a shady city park on one side of the main street area and a row of unique shops and eating establishments on the other. William Lesterhouse Antiques sits on the corner and has been a fixture for over 60 years. Some exciting new businesses have moved in including: Oz Boutique, Refuge Salon-Boutique and a wonderful restaurant called Nonla Vietnamese

Street Food. Just up the street is The Garden Griddle restaurant and Moo Moo’s Ice Cream Joint that will be opening again in the spring.

In addition to the downtown area, there are many unique businesses and restaurants in McGillen’s Crossing, located just south of the I-94 interchange and many others north of I-94.

Mattawan is located only 6 miles west of Kalamazoo in the heart of Michigan’s wine country – offering specialty shops, dining and largescale industry with local flare. For great service and country charm, visit Mattawan.

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December 2016

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Homegrown Holiday

By this time each year, the garden has been lulled to sleep by cooler temps and dustings of snow. I still head out to snip a few stems of kale (its hardy leaves made slightly sweeter by the cold) now and then, but, for the most part, anything edible is grown on the sills of windows within my home and three season room.

With the hubbub of the holidays, I’m always a little grateful that the demands of our large food plot slow down this month. The work of weed-pulling and produce harvesting is replaced by family gatherings, baking, and gift wrapping – it’s as if life never slowed down at all. One thing I used to fuss over this time of year was holiday décor. There’s something about the warm glow of lights, sparkle of ornaments, and scent of pine and cinnamon that brings back a flood of memories from my childhood that I now try to provide for my daughter. In an effort to streamline the decorating process and enjoy the most of what the great outdoors has to offer this season, I turn to Mother Nature for help.

Cedar and white pine are two of my favorite greens to bring indoors during winter months. They smell amazing, can be found in abundance, and are long lasting. Fill a vase with pine and add a few bare branches and holiday bulbs for a centerpiece you can enjoy through January. Wire boughs together to hang over doorways, line banisters, or wind across mantels. Adding pine cones, twinkling lights, or garland to greens creates a dreamy seasonal atmosphere. If you don’t have pine available to you in your backyard, check with friends or family to see if you can cut a few branches from trees in their yard or check with local tree farms to see if you can pick up branches they’ve cut and won’t use.

While we’re on the subject of Mother Nature – it’s also important to remember the critters who help keep your garden ecosystem thriving during warmer months.

Placing feeders in locations that are protected from harsh winter winds is a great way to keep birds who feast on garden pests during the summer close to your yard. Hanging halved oranges and

Santa Claus in coming to town and you can find him at Binder Park Zoo during ZooLights. This winter festival and fundraising event happens from 5:00pm – 8:30pm each night. And the big man himself will make special appearances each evening December 16th – 23th prior to Christmas.

other fruit pieces from trees or on bushes provides a good source of food for birds, too. Remember that compost piles are a fantastic way to continue to build beneficial soil microbes and breed good bugs, but they often attract unwanted cold and hungry critters in the winter that can do damage to fruit trees and linger when spring arrives. If dogs or cats aren’t around to keep rodents at bay, consider tossing food scraps in a protected bin during the winter, or be sure to disturb your pile frequently.

Enjoy what nature has to offer this time of year, from the birds to the boughs. It makes for a truly homegrown holiday.

Meg Gernaat Meg is a Kalamazoo native growing what she can on her almost-acre of land. See what she’s up to at WestEHomestead.com.

During ZooLights stroll along lighted paths with nightly entertainment, while viewing some of the Zoo’s weather-hardy animals on exhibit enjoying the winter season.

These special evenings will include unlimited FREE carousel rides, up-close animal meet and greets, special activities, holiday stories, and time to visit with Santa. (Please note: The Wild Africa section of the Zoo will be closed.) The cost for ZooLights is $5 for Binder Park Zoo Members, $6 Non-members, Children under 2 are FREE. Dinner with Santa is also available all 8 nights in Conservation Hall. The cost: Adults $20, Children 2-10 $15 and under 2 free.

Seating is Limited. Register online at binderparkzoo.org or call the office at 269-979-1351. Guests may start arriving at 4:30pm, dinner will start promptly at 5pm and Santa will be present at the dinner from 5pm to 6pm ZooLights is a general fundraiser to help feed and care for the animals over the winter months.

Stay tuned to the Zoo’s Facebook page for more event announcements.

Binder Park Zoo is located at 7400 Division Drive in Battle Creek, 3 miles south of I-94 exit 100.

GOOD NEWS

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December 2016

GOOD NEWS

I’m Dreaming of a Green Christmas

Happy Holidays! Do you know what could make the holidays even happier? By being green this Christmas!

While wrapping paper may be fun and pretty, it is a major contri-

bution to waste during the holidays.

Instead of using wrapping paper, try using reusable bags or, for a more interesting look, use old newspapers or magazines.

Of course, you need a tree to put

those presents under. You may be surprised that purchasing a real tree can have environmental benefits.

Christmas trees are typically grown for the exclusive purpose of use for the holidays, so when you buy a real tree you aren’t contributing to deforestation.

In fact, when you purchase a real tree, you are supporting Christmas tree business that will grow more trees to meet demand, thereby increasing the number of trees they plant and increasing the total carbon dioxide uptake of those trees. When you’re done with your tree for the holidays, you can even recycle it.

An integral part of the holidays are the celebrations and gettogethers. Although using disposable dinnerware makes for an easy cleanup, it also makes for major waste contribution. Use real dishes

to serve your food.

In addition, especially when company is over, lower your thermostat a few degrees. All of the heat from cooking and the many bodies in the room will help to heat your home, and turning the thermostat down just a few degrees can make a large difference in the amount of energy consumed by your home.

Of course, you can’t participate in a get-together without a way to get there. When you have to travel this holiday season, carpool with others to save on gas and limit your carbon dioxide footprint.

Have a wonderful holiday season and make your New Year’s Resolution a promise to be greener and to help the environment.

Judy Smith Heidelberg University Student

Call for Entries

For Kalmazoo valley’s sixth annual alumni art show

It isn’t too early to start thinking about entering Kalamazoo Valley’s Sixth Annual Alumni+ Art Show. The show opens on Friday, April 7 at 5:30 p.m. and submissions are accepted until February 24, 2017.

This juried art show enables Kalamazoo Valley alumni to showcase their works.

There is no artist entry fee. Each year this show is held at Kalamazoo Valley’s Center for New Media in conjunction with Art Hop. Works submitted will be considered for six awards, which will be presented to artists on the night of the show. Show judges are area professionals who come from a variety of disciplines and whose expertise enables them to deliver expert, but impartial, determinations. Previous judges have been impressed by the variety and quality of work.

An alumni artist can enter the show if

they: 1) have successfully completed at least one class at Kalamazoo Valley, and 2) are not currently enrolled in any class at the time of the show (winter 2017).

You need not have been an art student.

Previous show entrants have come from a variety of backgrounds including law enforcement, accounting, and medical coding.

Please consider being a part of the 2017 Alumni+ Art Show. As you prepare your work or create something new, visit https:// www.kvcc.edu/alumni/artshow/ for show details and links to the Call for Entry Form, Show Guidelines, and Exhibition Loan Agreement.

Art can be turned in to Cindy Parks at the CNM reception desk. The submission deadline is Feb. 24, 2017.

Photo: Side Long Glance by Janet Lucking, Best of Show 2014.

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December 2016

GOOD NEWS

gardening Growing Amaryllis - It’s Easy Want to see some gorgeous blooms? Plant an amaryllis!

1.) Choose your containers with an understanding that big amaryllis bulbs develop very large, heavy flowers. To keep bulbs that are in full flower from toppling over, select pots, tubs or urns that weight several pounds each when empty.

Or add some weight in the form of rocks or sand to the bottom of the containers. Also, keep in mind that you’ll want to protect windowsills and other surfaces from draining water.

2.) Fill your containers with good quality, well-drained potting soil; Fertilome Ultimate Potting Soil is ideal. Make sure there are adequate drainage holes; the bulbs must never sit in waterlogged soil or they will rot.

3.) Site the containers where they will receive bright light or partial sun. Cooler temperatures (55-65F) will prolong flower life, so consider placing your pots in an area that’s a bit on the cool side.

4.) Plant your amaryllis singly in pots that are a bit snug, ones with diameters 1”-2” larger than that of the bulbs. For several amaryllis bulbs in the same container, plant

close to each other with shoulders about an inch apart for the most brilliant display. Tuck them in so that the top inch of the bulb is above the soil surface. The top of the bulb is the part that looks a little like the stem area of an onion and the bottom has a flat plate, often with a few roots attached.

5.) Water well, gently soaking the soil and settling it around the bulb.

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TOGETHERHOOD GIVING THE ESSENTIONALS for the HOLIDAYS

Throughout DECEMBER, we’re collecting (new) underwear for both genders at both of our branches for Ministry with Community, Kalamazoo county’s day-time shelter for the homeless.

Please stop by and drop off donations. Socks, long underwear, briefs, boxers, etc. will be very appreciated.

Thinking to join the Y? Donate five or more (new) items and we’ll waive the joiner fee.

For 150 years, the YMCA of Greater Kalamazoo has provided support and services to our local area to build healthy body, mind and spirit. We’re not just a gym. We’re a community center built up through a membership that lifts our neighbors and each other.

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After the initial watering, wait to add more moisture until after you see stem and/or leaf growth to prevent overwatering. One of the most common problems that occur with indoor amaryllis is overwatering.

6.) Enjoy your colorful flowering pots. Most good quality amaryllis bulbs with produce more than one flower stem, each with 3-5 flowers.

As your amaryllis grow, rotate pots

a quarter turn every day or two to keep stems upright and to counteract their tendency to lean towards the light.

7.) When blooming is finished trim off the flower stems.

Kay Wedel Landrum Wedel’s Nursery, Florist & Garden Center

FREE december EVENTS Through January 8 Exhibit: Sustainable Shelter Kalamazoo Valley Museum 373-7990

Fridays, Dec. 2, 9, 16, 23 Live Music: Potter’s Lounge Four Points by Sheraton 8:00-11:00pm, pattiflemingmusic.com

Through January 16, 2017 Let’s Dance: Dancing in Kalamazoo – Spanning from the 1920’s-1980’s Kalamazoo Valley Museum 9am, 373-7990

Sat., Dec. 3 – Sun. Dec. 4 Christmas at Wings Art & Craft Show Wednesdays, Dec. 7, 14, 21 Wings Event Center - Sat. 9am, -4pm, Live Music: Potter’s Lounge Sun. 10am-4pm, 349-1185 Four Points by Sheraton 5:30-8:30pm, pattiflemingmusic.com Saturday, December 3 Annual Christmas Bazaar Wednesday, December 7 St. Andrew Community Church Music: Whisky Before Breakfast 9am - 3pm, 349-1173 O’Duffy’s Pub 8-10pm, 344-5666 Saturday, December 3 North Country Trail Holiday Hikes Thursday, December 8 Short Hike: 6.1 mi, Long Hike 10.5 WMU University Percussion Enmi. semble B Drive N @ 20 Mile Rd., Marshall Dalton Center Recital Hall 9:30am, 341-5964 7:30pm, 387-4667

Through January 8 Exhibit: Sustainable Shelter Kalamazoo Valley Museum 373-7990 Through January 16, 2017 Let’s Dance: Dancing in Kalamazoo – Spanning from the 1920’s-1980’s Kalamazoo Valley Museum 9am, 373-7990

Wednesday, December 7 Book Discussion & Movie: The Fundamentals of Caregiving Disability Network Southwest Michigan Noon– 2:30 pm, 345-1516

Saturday, December 3 Gift Shop Holiday Open House Gilmore Car Museum 10am-2pm, 671-5089

Thursday, December 8 Music: Tom Duffield O’Duffy’s Pub 8-10pm, 344-5666

Thursday, December 1 Holiday Sip & Shop Refreshments, jewelry, pottery & more Lighting & Décor by JSM in Portage 5-7pm, 345-0967

Saturdays, Dec. 3,10,17,24,31 Music: BenJammin’ and Analisa Educational entertainers & Kids breakfast Old Dog Tavern 10 – 11am, 381-5677

Friday Dec. 9 – Sunday Dec.11 K-9 Fanciers Dog Show Kalamazoo County Expo Center Fri.3-11pm, Sat.8-5, Sun 8-4 (989) 860-9845

Thursdays, Dec. 1,8,15,22,29 Singer/Songwriter Night Boatyard Brewing Co. Sign up at 6pm Performances 7-11pm

Saturday, December 3 Candy Cane Hunt - Arts & crafts, drawings and Santa too!

Homer Stryker Field Noon – 2pm, 337-8191

Thursday, December 1 Music: WMU Student Composers II Dalton Center Recital Hall 7:30pm, 387-4667

Saturday, December 3 First Saturday – Central Branch Stories, activities, guests & prizes Kalamazoo Public Library 2-3:30pm, 342-9837

Thursdays, Dec. 1,8,15, 22,29 Crafty Needles - Knitting Night Boatyard Brewing Co. 4-9pm, 226-0300

Fri., Dec. 2 – Sat. Dec. 3 Holiday Art Sale Kalamazoo Institute of Arts Fri., 4-8pm, Sat.9am-3pm, 349-7775 Friday, December 2 Art Hop Downtown Kalamazoo & In the Vine Neighborhood 5-8pm, 342-5059 Friday, December 2 Art Hop @ KIA 5-8pm, 349-7775 Friday, December 2 Art Hop Visual Experience: Derek Ketchum Photography 5-9pm Live Music: Kalamazoo Mandolin And Guitar Orchestra, 6-9pm Kalamazoo Valley Museum 373-7990 Friday, December 2 WMU Guest Artist Recital: Greg Maytan, Violin & Theodore Buchholz, Cello Dalton Center Recital Hall 8pm, 387-4667 Friday, December 2 Music: Alex Mays & Eddie Blue Lester Boatyard Brewing Co. 8-11pm, 226-0300

Sunday’s, Dec. 4,11, 18 Irish Music Jam Boatyard Brewing Co. Noon, 226-0300 Sunday, December 4 Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas KSO’s Burdick-Thorne String Quartet Milwood United Methodist Church 3pm, 349-7759 Sunday, December 4 Blue Christmas Service Gull Lake United Methodist Church 3pm, 629-5137 Sundays, Dec. 4,11,18 Bell’s Eccentric Café Sunday Team Trivia Doors open at 5pm Trivia 6-8pm, 382-2332 Tues. & Wed., Dec. 6,7,13,14, 20,21,27,28 Indoor Flea & Antique Market Kalamazoo Expo Center 8am-2pm, 383-8761 Tuesday, December 6 Video: Tales of Winter: The Art of Snow & Ice (conclusion) Kalamazoo Institute of Arts Noon, 349-7775

Wednesday, December 14 Book Discussion: The Last Painting Of Sara de Vos, by Dominic Smith Kalamazoo Institute of Arts 2-3pm, 349-7775 Wednesday, December 14 Music: Carrie McFerrin O’Duffy’s Pub 8-10pm, 344-5666 Thursday, December 15 Music: Megan Dooley O’Duffy’s Pub 8-10pm, 344-5666 Friday, December 16 Ugly Sweater Party Boatyard Brewing Co. 4-11pm, 226-0300 Friday, December 16 Music: The Kathy Ford Band The Dock at Bayview 8pm-12am,pattiflemingmusic.com Wednesday, December 21 A Winter Solstice Celebration!

A Night of Candlelight & Music From the Dow Family Band Boatyard Brewing Co. 5-10pm, Band 7pm, 226-0300S

Wednesday, December 21 Music: Out of Favor Boys Friday, December 9 Teen Night: middle & high schoolers O’Duffy’s Pub 8-10pm, 344-5666 Pizza, pop, new friends & art!

Kalamazoo Institute of Arts Friday, December 23 6-8pm, 349-7775 Music: Robert Rolfe Feddersen Boatyard Brewing Co. Friday, December 9 Music: Susan Harrison (Bluesy Suzy) 7-10pm, 226-0300 Boatyard Brewing Co. Friday, December 23 7-9pm, 226-0300 Music: Tony Fields & Doug Decker The Dock at Bayview Saturday, December 10 8pm-12am.pattiflemingmusic.com Buy Local Art & Craft Fair Kalamazoo Nature Center Saturday, December 24 9am-5pm, 381-1574 Christmas Eve Open House Boatyard Brewing Co. Saturday, December 10 Noon - 4pm, 226-0300 Christmas Expo & Craft Show Kalamazoo County Expo Center Tuesday, December 27 9am-4pm, 903-5820 Storyteller, Karen Czarnik Kalamazoo Valley Museum Saturday, December 10 Art Detectives, Ages 4-8 with adult Noon, 373-7990 Kalamazoo Institute of Arts Tuesday, December 27 11am-Noon, 349-7775 A Big GLAMA Jama Boatyard Brewing Co. Sunday, December 11 7-9pm, 226-0300 Portage Winter Indoor Market Portage Senior Center Wednesday, December 28 10am-2pm, 359-6727 Music: Joe Wang and The Test Pilots O’Duffy’s Pub Sunday, December 11 8-10pm, 344-5666 Kalamazoo Record & CD Show Kalamazoo County Expo Center Thursday, December 29 11am-4pm, (734) 604-2540 Musician: BenJammin Kalamazoo Valley Museum Sunday, December 11 Noon, 373-7990 Preserving Your Family’s Textiles Kalamazoo Valley Museum Friday, December 30 1:30pm, 373-7990 Music: Alex Mays & Eddie Blue Lester Tuesday, December 13 Boatyard Brewing Co. Video: The World of the 8-11pm, 226-0300 Lindisfarne Gospels Kalamazoo Institute of Arts Noon, 349-7775