Good News February 2015

February 2015 1 GOOD NEWS

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Cherri Makes Chocolate Art!

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inside- February 2015Editor and Publisher: Jackie Merriam

Graphic Designer: Lauren Ellis

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Home Decor

Reinvent Your Space With ColorFun With Miniature GardensRemember When: Chicken Charlie’sExperts Q & AHow You Can Help Pets Left Out in the ColdBook ReviewsReduce, Reuse, Recycle Paper Vintage Style: What is Steampunk?A Mother and Daughter Adventure SeriesValentine’s Day featureEAT: Niko’s ExpressMindful ParentingRelaxation: Valentine’s Spa Day at Home!Tips for Achieving New Year’s ResolutionsNon-Profit Spotlight: thrift store.Day Trip: Air ZooFree Art Workshops for Children & TeensCalendar of FREE Events

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Reinvent Your Space with Color!

Color adds so much beauty to our lives. There is no easier way to create atmosphere than by adding color to your walls, but it can be intimidating- Agonizing over how to pick a paint color? Don’t fret; you’re not alone. Selecting a paint color can be an overwhelming process with so many options to choose from. Don’t give up. Adding color to your walls can have dramatic im-pact on your mood and how you live. Not to mention, it’s a super economical way to dramatically reinvent your space.

Whether you’re redecorating or

starting with a blank space, selecting your wall color may seem like the first logical step, but try to avoid this. Finding in-spiration through furnishings, a piece of artwork or a curtain fabric that you can’t live without is the best way to kick-start the process. A sofa or curtain you fall in love with may only have a handful of color options. With paint, you have every option imaginable!

Be mindful of mood. Before you make any decisions on paint, decide how you want to feel when you are

in your space. How will the room function? We are unconsciously attracted to colors that remind us of our past experiences. Without even realizing it, we try to recreate a feeling in our homes that re-minds us of atmospheres we have enjoyed and felt comforted by in our past.

Color Psychology. There is no doubt color can impact your mood. Green can be energizing. Yellow and red are stimulating, Blues feel restful and neutrals, well, feel neutral. The more satu-rated the color, the more it will impact your mood. Neutrals are the safest, most popular and ver-

satile options. Neutrals don’t have to be bland either. Grays, despite what you may think, can really warm up a space. All of earths colors found in rocks and clay are typically in the neutral palette and feel soothing. Neutrals can be warm, or can be cool and still impact your mood, but are subtle. Be aware, if you go too light the color can feel washed out and stark. If you go too dark it can feel closed in.

Color Trends. The Pantone color of the year 2015 is Marsala, similar to the color of red wine. It’s a beautiful color, but painting your walls based on a color trend is probably a mistake. Pick a color you love. Besides, who care’s what color is on trend? Trends change, but if you truly love a color, you’ll continue to love it. Plus, it’s your home and your mood, so pick a color that suits the function of your space and suits you.

A Few Favorites. A few of my go to colors by Benjamin Moore that will work in virtually any room are REVERE PEWTER HC-172, SHALE 861 and COVENTRY GRAY HC-169. You can find Benjamin Moore paints downtown Kalamazoo at Douglas & Sons,

personally my favorite place to buy paint. Ask for Jason or any of their staff, they are all super helpful, pa-tient and have years of experience.

Still Stumped? Just ask for help. It’s what we are here for! If you are up for something daring or just not feeling confident, it may be a good idea seek out a profes-sional for help in executing a more complicated color scheme.

Julie Hite-Neiltiz HITE HOUSE CoutureYour chic home decor store of downtown Kzoo.www.hite-house.com 210 S Kalamazoo Mall


Each day I indulge in a little square (or two) of Dove dark chocolate. I buy

Dove, chocolates not only because of the great taste, but also for the great advice. When you unwrap the chocolate in the red shiny wrapper, you receive an inspi-rational message printed on the

inside.

Some of the messages remind you to enjoy life. “Take a moment for yourself,”

“Feed your sense of anticipation” and one of my favorites “Remember the simple pleasures in life.” While other messages are compliments that lift you up and make you feel good

about yourself. “Your smile is your best acces-sory,” “Happiness looks great on you” and “Feel free to be yourself.”

And finally messages about love and kindness, which are appropriate this month as we celebrate Valentines Day. “Give a little love today,” Smil-ing is free,” Joy is contagious” and “Happiness never decreases by being shared.” These little messages are thought provoking morsels that I look forward to each day. The message in my chocolate today is very fitting for this daily indulgence of mine. “Give thanks for Chocolate!”

Happy Valentines Day! -Jackie Merriam-

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Like us on Facebook and view our website at www.goodnews-paper.com

Fun with Miniature Gardens With the winter snow piling up around us, we as gardeners, get cabin fever way before anyone else does. We long for the day to get some soil beneath our finger-nails and sweat on our brows! The fun of outdoor gardening can be brought inside with miniature gardening. Miniature gardening is a hobby that can be enjoyed by toddlers, the elderly and everyone in between. One of the neat things about miniature gardening is how some people get start their gardens. The base of these cute gardens could be an old bird bath or fountain that doesn’t work any more or even an old broken pot. Use your resources and imagination. For example, the broken lip to the pot could be snapped into pieces to make miniature steps inside the pot. The old fountain may not hold water, but it will sure hold soil!

The next thing to do is fill your container with soil; I have had the best results with Fertilome Ultimate Potting Mix. Then, start creating a setting – the possibili-ties are endless! Start out with a highlight in your container to be the focal point. Here are a few

ideas to get you started. Create miniature walls & steps, make a stone patio, add a miniature house or cabin or barn setting. Try putting in a little pond or make a mini waterfall out of stones. The next thing you will want to add is miniature outdoor furni-

ture, a little wagon or cart, or a cute vegetable garden. Oh my! The fun has just begun, because then the miniature plants, moss, paths, grass, fire pits, and trees can be added to create a natural set-ting. A fun way to top it all off is with miniature lanterns and party lights. What’s cool about miniature gardening is that as the seasons change, so can your landscape. One of the neatest, cutest, most fun parts can be the miniature Christmas scene. This hobby can help gardeners that feel trapped inside when the only shovel they get to use now is the snow shovel outside.

Have fun gardening! Andrew WedelWedel’s Nursery, Florist & Garden Center

Cberri Emery, owner of Cherri’s Chocol’art


Remember When chicken charlie’s

Chicken Charlie’s was owned and operated by Charles Schwarz, and was well known for the best fried chicken in town! One Vanished Kalamazoo website posting said that it was the primo prom-date restaurant in Kalamazoo.

A mid 1950’s menu shows Charlie’s Chicken Dinner (breast, wing, thigh and leg), complete with French fries, 2 side dishes or chef salad, rolls & butter and coffee, tea or milk for only $1.75. Only 35 cents for a hamburger with French fries and a glass of Stroh’s beer cost a mere 30 cents.

I have fond memories of working there as a waitress in the early 1980’s, while attending college at WMU. They had four very large dining rooms, and were always very busy. At that time many referred to the restaurant as Schwarz’s.

The original Chicken Charlie’s restaurant was located on South Westnedge near the corner of Whites Road. It was replaced by Damon’s Rib House, which was later torn down to accommodate a strip mall.

The Schwarz family also owned several other restaurants in

Kalamazoo, including Chicken Charlie restaurants with drive-ins. One of these was located on King’s Highway and the other was on South Westnedge, near The Crossroads Mall.

By Jackie Merriam

Chicken Charlie’s Drive -In Restaurant on King’s Hwy

Health Food Foot HealthFebruary is Heart Health Month. Diet, exercise, supplementation and ahappy frame of mind are key factors that help main-tain a healthy heart! According to the INTER-HEART study, which exam-ined cardiovascular risk fac-

tors in 51 countries, 9 out of the 10 strongest risk factors for heart disease are modifiable by changes in diet and lifestyle. That’s pretty exciting news. Simple steps can lead to big changes in your overall heart health. Increasing Omega 3’s and eating less sugar can be helpful . Regular exercise, relaxation, and proper sleep are also key factors. Numerous studies have shown the benefits of supplements, like CoQ10. And most exciting, The Harvard School of Public Health looked at 200 previous studies that measured psychological traits, alongside health behaviors and risk factors for cardio-vascular disease. Happiness and optimism were both linked to a lower risk of heart disease and stroke, with the most optimistic people having the greatest benefits! All Jarrow CoQ10 is on sale February!

Q: There are so many shoe inserts to choose from, how do I know which ones will work best for me?

A: This is where a qualified ex-pert comes into play. I frequent-ly recommend Superfeet insoles to my customers. Superfeet in-soles offer a unique broad range of products for every shoe and foot type. They not only provide enhanced support for your body, but may also help your footwear last longer. Come in and feel for yourself. Feel super all day long with Superfeet!

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Experts Q & A


This subject is near and dear to my heart. With the help of friends, I was trying to save a dog from a bad situation and I wanted to share this advice so that caring citizens can help save other animals too. While we cannot possibly save every outdoor dog and cat, we can certainly try!

As a rule: If it’s too cold for you, it’s too cold for your cat or dog too! It’s not ideal for domestic cats to be outside during winter, especially declawed cats that have lost the ability to catch food or defend themselves. If you know someone with outdoor cats, help ensure that they have a safe, warm shelter to go to like a garage, barn, or even a simple cat shelter like those used for feral cats. If you live in an area with stray or barn cats, be sure to knock on your hood or honk your horn before starting your vehicle. Cats seek out warm engines and this will startle them out and give them a chance to escape. While cats have a chance to fend for themselves, dogs are at the mercy of their owners when chained or enclosed outside.

By Michigan State law, pet owners who leave their pets outside for any length of time are required to provide the animal with adequate food, water and shelter. Adequate Shelter: a

well-built, insulated, slant-roof doghouse with an interior large enough for the dog to stand and lie down comfortably. The shelter should be elevated from the ground to ensure proper air circulation and the doorway should be covered with a protective flap to eliminate drafts and face away from prevailing winds. Clean, dry straw should be provided for warmth—towels and blankets absorb moisture and freeze in frigid temperatures. Failure to provide adequate shelter may result in misdemeanor animal cruelty violations, 93 days in jail, up to a $1,000 fine, community service, and loss of pet ownership for a specified duration.

Things you can do if you see a pet left out in the cold.

•Talk to the pet owners to find out if there is any way you can help. There may have been a sudden change in their life, like health issues, that prevent them from caring for the animal properly. Ask what the cat or dog is like, if you can meet it and develop a relationship with the owner so that they don’t think you’re judging them, but genuinely trying to be helpful.

•Contact All Species Kinship (A.S.K.) a nonprofit organization that responds to calls from the public 24/7. They believe that

the key to seeing change is to work with the current owner and educate them and try to help out all animals by providing them with adequate shelter, food and supplies. Find A.S.K. on the web or visit their Facebook page.

•Contact Kalamazoo County Animal Services and Enforcement. KCASE is required to follow up on every complaint. The more details you can provide the better. Note the time of day, date, exact location, number or animals, breed, age, and as many details about the situation as possible. Photo and video evidence help to bolster your report, so snap a few pictures with your cell phone.

Remember: Your local rescue is not a law-enforcement agency and

cannot take legal action. Rescues can provide advice and counsel if you need it.

We have all dealt with a neighbor who leaves their dog outside, or we have driven by someone’s home and seen a dog chained up. For those of us in rescue and with rescue hearts, our minds turn to the ones outside when the temperature plummets. Learn the facts so you can help cats and dogs come inside once and for all! By Danielle Wallis KAR Friends February 2014 reprinted with permission from Kalamazoo Animal Rescue

Pets How You Can Help Pets Left Out in the Cold

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Reduce, Reuse & Recycle Paper

Did you know that today around 50% of the world’s forests are gone? If the trend continues, we will only have 10% of our forests by the year 2030.

I’m going to give you some facts: It takes about 15 trees to produce 1 ton of paper, but paper receipts in the U.S. alone require 640,000 tons! That adds up to 9.6 million trees a year, just for receipts.

It also takes 390 gallons of oil to produce 1 ton of paper. With the amount of receipts we manufacture, the amount of oil used for receipts could be used to produce gasoline for about 7 million cars. The amount of carbon dioxide emitted from producing receipts is the equivalent of 640,000 cars driving 24/7, for an entire year! For making receipts, they have to use 1.2 billion gallons of water.

I know that was a lot of facts and

statistics, but I wanted to show you how mind boggling all of this really is. These statistics are only for the manufacturing of receipts! Think about all of the other paper products we use: paper bags, printer paper, notebooks, paper packaging,

etc. Already recycled paper products require a lot less water and oil, and produce less carbon dioxide. Also, keep in mind that many paper manufacturers use chlorine and other dangerous chemicals to bleach and treat the paper, which can end up in our lakes and rivers.

Please recycle and reuse your paper! Take advantage of the technology we have today to store your files and to communicate, instead of using paper. If you buy a paper product, look for the products that have already been recycled, and for the products that don’t use harmful chemicals in their manufacturing process. Judy Smith High School Student Galesburg-Augusta/KAMSC

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Vintage Style What is Steampunk?

In the vintage clothing industry, sales are leaping and a new market is emerging for clothing and ac-cessories related to a style properly named “Steampunk”.

Steampunk is defined as a subgenre of science fiction and fantasy literature and art that commonly features some aspect of machinery and the use of steam. It is generally in a setting inspired by the industrialized Western civilization during the 19th cen-tury. This genre really was birthed during the 1980’s but developed greatly throughout the 1990’s.

In fashion, steampunk style comes from a unique twist on Victorian-era inspired clothing. Often men will wear top hats and suit jackets with long tails, buckled boots and leather trench coats paired with industrial machine-type acces-sories. A good comparison may be found in recent films, notably

the Hunger Games series as well as the recent remake of “Charlie and the Chocolate Fac-tory” where Johnny Depp, who plays a futuristic and odd Willy Wonka, so smashingly was cos-tumed in the Steampunk fashion.

The ladies longing for that Ste-ampunk look should keep in mind the clothing women who lived and worked in the late 1800s may have worn. Clothing to shop for should include a corset or girdle, long Victorian-inspired skirts filled with stacks of lace, ruffles, or played up with abstract trim such as zippers or military metal but-tons. Cotton and gauzy romantic blouses should be included to pair under a corset. A pair of lace-up leather boots featuring several buckles would be ideal to round out this look.

The best way to achieve the Ste-ampunk style is to think outside the box with your choice of acces-sories. The accessories featured in this genre of dressing are abstract and industrial. Accessories you should be on the lookout for include small metal objects that

would fit well in a story. Objects such as bent copper piping, small steam whistles reminiscent of the ones on the original steam loco-motives or gauges. In this style, many different shapes and types of gears as well as clocks or time-pieces will be utilized including pocket watches. Abstract items such as old aviator googles, tire pumps or gas masks are all objects that can be added to the outfit to pull off this fantasy-styled look.

By utilizing my quick tips here, you will be sure to pull off the Steampunk look of the year and will properly fit this fictional and imaginative style of dressing.

Mrs. Janice Glasser is an expert in Vintage clothing and styling. Follow her on Facebook at www.facebook.com/TheVintageStylist. For 15 years she has partnered with her mother in operating The Clothing Connection Consignment Boutique in Kalamazoo

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In Search of our Super-PowersA Mother and Daughter Adventure Series

Jane: I like snow. I don’t ski or skate or snowmobile, so there re-ally is no excuse for this attitude. I like to watch it fall in big fluffy flakes, or tiny sparkles. I like the elegance of layered drifts along the side of the road. When chil-dren make huge snow people in their front yards, wrapped with scarves and holding brooms, this completely charms me. What is more captivating than watching the swirling gusts of a blizzard in a solitary streetlight?

Sure, there is some labor involved. But shoveling snow is not at all like shoveling manure or dirt—it’s an entirely different experience. Snow is clean for one. And odor-less. And it comes and goes all by itself. Eventually.

There are people who dread winter because of the treacherous driving conditions. OK. I’ll give

them that. Buy a Subaru. There is also the low air temperature re-quired for snow to exist. Sub-zero is no fun for anybody. All I want to say to that is: brisk, bracing, stimulating, low-humidity, and appropriate clothing.

The last thing I want to mention on this subject is—thank you to anyone who read this article so far. I know it took generosity on your part to hear me out on this con-troversial subject.

Ellen: Nope. Despite my mother’s elegant argument for the contrary, I am not about to budge, snow is just not my thing. Despite be-ing born and raised in Michigan AND owning a Subaru, I am not a fan of winter and never will be. Give me summer and a healthy dose of humidity.

It should come as no surprise that I am a tad seasonally affected. The lack of sunshine and heat causes me to droop listlessly, and my ad-venturous spirits plunge to near-existence any time ice or slush coat the roadways.

This makes me truly grateful for all those around me who, con-sciously or not, help me to sur-vive the bleak midwinter. To the snowplow drivers and those who salt the sidewalks: thank you, you are my heroes. To the coffee shop employees who brave the weather

earlier than I do every morning to get that hot cup of mood-saving brew ready: I love you. To the mechanics at Uncle Ed’s who make sure my car is ship-shape, and the weather forecasters who warn me when not to leave my house, and the electricians that keep the power on: I couldn’t do this without you.

So it seems that the season that

brings out the worst in me, suc-ceeds in showing me the best in others…funny how that works. That being said, I’m going to do my best to hibernate under the blankets on my couch until May, so if you need anything, maybe just ask my mom.

She seems to like this time of year.

By Jane & Ellen Knuth

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It is February - the month of love – and the month we celebrate Valentine’s Day. The observance of Valentine’s Day has spanned throughout the ages and is still celebrated by different nations and cultures. While many of us may believe that Valentine’s Day is about giving our loved ones cards, flowers and chocolates, the origin of Val-entine’s Day has likely escaped the masses.

The origin of Valentine’s Day is very confusing. Why? There is a lack of factual information out there. Because this occurred so long ago (around 270 A.D.) during times of persecution, many historic docu-ments were destroyed and obliter-ated – making the actual history of this ironic holiday even harder to pinpoint. While there does seem to be a common theme in the reason we even put this red, pink, and heart-shaped day on the calendar – in the name of love – this holiday really originated in the early times of martyrdom and within the his-tory of the Roman Empire.

In a very ancient book called Bede’s Martyrology – compiled during the 8th century – it states that February 14th was a day to remember many Christian martyrs, most notably Saint Valentine of Rome and Valentine of Terni.

The most noted origin of this love-filled holiday came about during the reign of the Roman Emperor Claudius II when there were many stringent rules and laws surround-ing the people, not to mention the agenda of this particular Emperor

who sought to increase his armies. It is rumored that Claudius out-lawed any soldier marrying dur-ing this time stating “married men do not make good soldiers.” It was there when the story remains consistent throughout the ages that Saint Valentine of Rome was performing marriage ceremonies outside of the law of Claudius. Val-entine had to answer to Claudius and it’s rumored that Claudius tried to get Valentine to rid his Christian ways and be rescued from death by seeking to convert him to Roman Paganism. Valentine refused and on the night preceding his execu-tion, Valentine performed a mighty miracle in a massive family.

During his time in jail, Valentine had befriended one of the jailers named Asterius. He had performed a miracle on his young blind daugh-ter healing and restoring her sight. Asterius had a forty-four member family who all were rumored to be “saved” by Valentine after he per-formed this miracle for the jailer’s daughter the night before the execution.

So, when did the greeting cards come in?

An additional story later came out that Saint Valentine had written a greeting card of sorts to the jailer’s daughter after healing her and signed it, “From Your Valentine” which is rumored to be the origin of exchanging cards on Valentine’s Day.

As time has passed this holiday on the calendar has changed as well. The Roman Catholic Calendar of Saints disposed of this holiday re-moving it from its calendar in 1969 stating “Though the memorial of Saint Valentine is ancient, it is left to particular calendars, since, apart from his name, nothing is known of Saint Valentine except that he was buried on the Via Flaminia on February 14.”

Since the removal of this day from the Catholic calendar the holiday itself has changed. Since the 1980’s its noted that not only greeting card companies, such as American Greetings and Hallmark, but also fine jewelry stores and florists got on the retail bandwagon to market their goods for this holiday – mak-ing it second place to Christmas for the biggest holiday of the year in these industries.

While you are on the hunt for something wonderful to give to the special person in your life this Val-entine’s Day, stand up for love like Saint Valentine of Rome, and enjoy this unique holiday!

By Janice Glasser

The History of Valentine’s Day

{ }Happy


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niko’s expressEAT

Niko’s Express is on fire…smok-ing meats that is! If you enjoy smoked flavor, you must head out to Niko’s Express and try their brisket, chops, sausage, ribs and more! Their Smoke House menu is available for lunch and dinner every Friday and Saturday. Addi-tionally, they have a weekly dinner special every Thursday of smoked beef brisket and sausage, served after 4pm.

Niko’s Express has become the community-gathering place, since arriving in Comstock 32 years ago. Known for home cooked, made from scratch meals. Niko Grafos founded the restaurant, and his son, Michael, manages it. Niko

continues to enjoy going into the restaurant every day to oversee operations

Michael Grafos started smok-ing wild game for himself fifteen years ago, while Mack Rodriguez, a cook at Niko’s Express, had previously smoked meat at a BBQ chain in Dallas Texas. Together they came up with the idea, as a trial, to offer smoked ribs as a menu special. They went through 63 racks of ribs in one day! Thus, the Niko’s Express Smoke House menu was born.

With the demand for their smoked meats established, they would need to have a much larger

smoker to accommodate the vol-ume. The smoker was built by four guys over seven Sundays, and has a 500-gallon LP tank. The smoker is large enough to accom-modate 2 whole pigs.

The key to their smoked flavor is cooking the meat slowly and at a low temperature, to keep it tender and moist, from 250-275 degrees Fahrenheit. Their beef brisket is smoked for a full twelve hours. The meats are also rubbed with a secret recipe rub and served with homemade barbeque sauce.

Try some of the best barbeque in town at Niko’s Express on Friday’s & Saturdays each week for lunch

or dinner until 8pm, or on Thurs-day for their brisket and sausage special after 4pm. You can even enjoy some live country music with your barbeque each Thursday & Saturday from 5-7pm. They offer their smoked meats and an array of other items for catering. Niko’s Express is located at 5876 King Highway in Comstock. Open Monday through Saturday from 6am – 8pm, and Sunday 7am-2pm. For more information, see the website at nikosexpressres-taurant.com, or call 342-0933.

By Jackie Merriam

Free Art Workshops for Children and Teenswith Artist and Art Therapist, Monica Kovach

For children aged 5-12 and a VIP (a very important person: parent, grandparent, older sibling, neighbor, etc.)Sunday, February 15, 2015 from 1-4pm

For teens: Sunday, February 22, 2015 from 1-4pm

Come spend a winter afternoon creating a “garden of hope” using natural materials, recycled objects, clay, paint, and your imagination! All materials will be provided, but participants are encouraged to bring one small, meaningful object (i.e. a rock, figurine, feather, shell, etc.) to place in the finished art piece.

Westminster Art Festival and Art Workshops funded by the Beim Foundation

Place: Westminster Presbyterian Church, 1515 Helen Street, Portage, MIRSVP by February 11: 344-3966

Participants may choose to enter their piece for juried submission into theWestminster Art Festival, March 28 - April 25, 2015.


Mindful Parenting

Much has been written about the hazards of allowing children to spend lots of time glued to screens: laptops, IPods, smart phones, TV, and video games. Overreliance on electronic media has been linked to losing interest in other forms of play, social isola-tion, blunted social development, decreased physical activity, delays in fine or gross motor skills as well as preoccupation with a device and conflict between caregiver and child over the use of the device (Fitzgerald, T., 2014). Playing games with violent themes can increase aggressive acting out and nightmares. Sleep problems have now been linked to overuse of electronics and reading on blue screen/back lit devices (Breus, M., 2011). The American Academy of Pediatrics has suggested no screen time at all for children under the age 2 and only two hours a day for the elementary aged children AND teens (www.aap.org).

As a parent, you are less likely to be able to follow through with these guidelines without an active plan about what your children are going to do instead; plugging into an electronic device is the easiest, most passive way to weather tran-sitions and emotional discomforts. The Electronic Babysitter is all too often an unwelcome guest in our homes, particularly in these long, indoor winter months.

Setting boundaries around screen time is one of the more difficult tasks parents face today. And this task is critical. Our children develop their neurological hard-wiring for attachment by face-to- face contact, physical touch and responsiveness. Furthermore, their capacity for imagination, solving interpersonal problems, calming themselves and practicing social skills are enormously as-sisted by nonelectronic play.

In my practice, I routinely spend time with parents and children coming up with expectations, cur-fews and guidelines around screen time. This topic usually generates much snarling and gnashing of teeth. And remember, as a par-ent, if you are encouraging life away from the screen, it is helpful to model other forms of activity for your recreation as well. With-out a media use plan and a list of alternative activities in hand, most

parents are worn down.So here are a few ideas:Make a list of things your child can do to assist with the dif-ficulty often experienced when transitioning from one activity to another:1. Set up a drawing/art corner where your child can be redirected for relaxation. 2. Establish a cozy spot to read (a white page device, like a Kindle, is an exception).3. Shoot a basketball on an indoor hoop.4. Listen to music. Dance.5. Do a puzzle. Leave a large puzzle out. Children and teens can finish a section when they need to relax.

6. Spend time playing with minia-tures (dolls, animals, Legos, cars).7. Read a guided meditation to your child.For longer stretches of indoor play, it is helpful to sit down with your youngster, who may be used to plugging into a screen, and plan for more involved activities: 1. Encourage dress up and cos-tume activities.2. Play board and card games. Set up a family game night. Families who play games together are hap-pier.3. Do a craft project. 4. Cook, bake. Cooking is a nur-turing activity and a life skill.5. Make a tent city between chairs. 6. Play Sardines or Hide and Go Seek inside.7. Build sculptures using objects from the recycling bin. Have an art show.8. Set up a mini spa. Tweens and teens especially love hand mas-sages, manicures and pedicures.9. Put on a play or skit. You can be the audience.10. Play charades.

You will find that the list grows as you and your children generate ideas and practice playing with-out a screen. Behavior specialists note that it often takes 40 days to develop a new habit. So if this process is tough at first, don’t despair!

Your child’s imagination will grow, along with yours.

You are fostering new bonds with your children as you engage in their play. And you are helping them develop lifelong skills to handle the quieter side of winter life.

For Further Information:American Academy of Pediatrics, www.aap.org/children and media.Beres, D.,(2014), Reading on a Screen Before Bed Might Be Kill-ing You, www.huffingtonpost.Breus, M.,(2011), “Teen Sleep Problems: Could Texting and E-mailing Be to Blame?,” www.huffingtonpost.Fitzgerald, T. (2014), “The Device Dilemma,”FYI Southwest Michi-gan, November/December 2014.Garth, M. (2010), Starbright: Meditations for Children.www.stressfreekids.com

Lindsay P. South, MA is a Li-censed Professional Counselor and Registered Play Therapist who practices in Portage.

“I’m Bored!” Combatting the Winter Doldrums


Deep Pressure vs. Deep Tissue

Which is right for you?relaxation

Ahhh…. Valentine’s Day- the ultimate spa holiday. What better way is there to show your special someone how much you appreci-ate them? That is, of course, until you see the price tag that goes along with all that pampering. But wait! There are ways to indulge your loved one and not spend your entire life savings: home spa treat-ments.

You can create a spa in the comfort of your own home while using simple ingredi-ents found in your pantry. While there is no substitute for a well-educated and trained spa service provider, the act of taking time for oneself will simulate the effects of visiting a relaxing spa. Go even farther and create the

mood: play relaxing music, light a few candles, and slip into a comfy robe. Try one (or all) of the recipes below for a wonderfully relaxing Valentine’s Day.

Deep Conditioning Hair Mask: •1 egg yolk •Coconut oil (amount depends on your length of hair)

Mix together and apply to hair. After 2-3 hours rinse out and enjoy silky soft locks.

Hydration Face Mask: •1 tablespoon cold heavy cream •1 tablespoon yogurt (the less sugar the better) •1 ½ tablespoon honey

•1 tablespoon aloe vera gel •½ an avocado

Mix together. Apply using a makeup brush or fan painting brush. Let sit until hardened. Rinse off with warm water. *For a complete spa experience: dampen hand towel and heat in microwave for 10 seconds and remove mask with heated towel.*Dealing with rough spots or dark areas? Add lemon juice to the mask.

Dry Skin Body Scrub: •1 cup brown sugar •1 cup raw oatmeal •1 cup olive oil

Mix together ingredients. Apply in a circular motion all over body

(not on face). Rinse off with warm water.

*Battling cellulite? Add 1 table-spoon each of coffee grounds and cocoa powder.

Tired Feet Foot Soak: •1 cup Epsom salts •Juice of 1 lime •Fresh mint leaves

Roughly chop mint leaves and add to other ingredients. Drop mixture in warm water and soak feet.

Rebecca Byron; LMT, CAOBTOwner of Water’s Edge Day Spa

Valentine’s Spa Day At Home!

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health Tips for Achieving New Year’s Resolutions

National YMCA survey finds more than half of American adults say outside support can help keep their 2015 resolutions. Each year, millions of Ameri-cans resolve to get in better shape and become healthier versions of themselves. According to a re-cent YMCA survey of more than 1,000 adults, less than a quarter of respondents kept their resolu-tion in 2014. An overwhelming 71 percent said they tried but fell short, and 40 percent confessed that they made it through only a couple of weeks or months. However, there’s hope for the coming year. One-third of survey respondents who plan to make a resolution in 2015 believe they’ll stick to it and reach their goals, with more than half believing that encouragement from others will keep them committed. “Finding a supportive commu-nity like the Y can be beneficial in keeping resolutions on track, be-cause our organization is so much more than a nonprofit gym,” said Trish Harrison, health & well-ness director, YMCA of Greater Kalamazoo. “It’s a community of supportive neighbors that offers more health, more hope and more opportunity for the New Year and years to come.”

A positive outlook doesn’t always

translate to action unless with-out setting manageable goals and leaning on the support of health and wellness communities. Here are five tips the Y recommends to help make a healthy New Year’s resolution stick: •Start small. Set attainable reso-lutions. For example, if your goal is to exercise more frequently in the New Year, don’t schedule seven days a week at the gym. Start with a reasonable three days a week. If you’d like to eat healthier, try re-placing desserts with other foods you enjoy, such as fruit or yogurt.

2. Take it one step at a time. Making a New Year’s resolution doesn’t require you to reassess every little detail of your life. Re-

placing unhealthy behaviors with healthy ones takes time so don’t become overwhelmed. Work to change one behavior at a time, and then go from there. 3. Choose a facility that focuses on a holistic approach to health. When it comes to adding healthy behaviors – like working out – to your lifestyle, finding a facil-ity that keeps you motivated is critical to maintaining your exer-cise routine. Before committing to a membership, take a tour of local gyms to find the best fit for you. Your facility should not be just a gym, but a community organiza-tion that offers more health, more hope and more opportunity. 4. Establish a little friendly competition. More than half of

the Y survey respondents felt a little “healthy competition” when friends encouraged them to be even more committed to keeping their New Year’s resolutions. Share your experiences with support groups – friends, family, fellow workout class members or close colleagues. Talking about your struggles and successes will make your goals more obtainable and less intimidating. 5. Set New Year’s goals with someone you love. It’s easier to stick to your resolutions if you have a partner working toward similar goals. More than three-fourths of survey respondents indicated that they would set the same resolution for a member of their immediate family. Team up with a family member to set your 2015 goals, and establish a game plan that is dedicated to achieving them. For additional tips or to learn more about how to get involved with the YMCA of Greater Kalamazoo, call 269.345.9622, 269.324.9622 or visit www.kzooymca.org.

Trish Harrison, MA, C-PFTAssociation Health & Wellness DirectorYMCA of Greater Kalamazoo

Kalamazoo’s Only Children’s Shoe Specialist

449 West Kilgore Rd., Portage -- 269.342.2024

Clearance Sale is going on now with merchandise up to 50% off.

“A network of experienced therapists in private practice who support Kalamazoo

area individuals, couples and families.”


non profit valley thrift store

There is a wonderful thrift store in the area offering affordable, gently used clothing, household goods and more. The Valley Thrift Store opened this past June, and is an outreach of Valley Family Church. Senior Pastors, Jeff and Beth Jones, saw this concept mod-eled at a church in another state and brought the idea back to this area.

The sole purpose of the Valley Thrift Store is to generate income for their Outreach Programs, with

many of the proceeds supporting their Friday Groceries program. This program provides supple-mental groceries to over 200 fami-lies in need each week in our com-munity. The pantry is open every Friday from 10am until noon at the Valley Family Church on 2500 Vincent Road. Non-perishable food donations are also accepted at the church Monday through Thursday from 9am until 1pm.

Two staff members and over 25 volunteers from the Valley Family

Church operate the 5,000 square foot thrift store. Shopping in the Valley Thrift Store supports people at need in the community. Spending just $10 at the thrift store helps feed 32 people for one day. Now that is what I call a guilt free shopping experience.

The Valley Thrift Store is run completely by donations, which are much appreciated and gladly accepted at the Valley Thrift Store at 8700 Shaver Road in Portage. Drop items off during business

hours: Monday and Wednesday 10am-6pm,Thursday, Friday and Saturday 10am-4pm. For infor-mation on the items accepted please visit their website http://www.valleyfamilychurch.org/valley-thrift-store.

Also, feel free to contact them at [email protected], or call 492-0575.

By Jackie Merriam

Words that heal | Feb 6-7, 2015

kalamazoomuseum.org 269.373.7990

The Kalamazoo Valley Museum is operated by Kalamazoo Valley Community College

and is governed by its Board of Trustees

Open daily for Lunch and Dinner at 11am Serving Breakfast weekends at 10am

Hours: Monday 11- midnight, Tuesday - Friday 11 - 2a.m.,

Saturday 10 - 2a.m. Sun. 10a.m. - midnight Serving late night menu until 1a.m. Thursday - Saturday


Day trip air z00

Immerse yourself in aerospace and science at the Air Zoo. Once you walk through the doors you are transported into the excite-ment of flight. An impressive hand painted Curtiss P-40N Warhawk plane hanging from the ceiling greets you and a tunnel of clouds leads the way into the museum.

The Air Zoo has many different exhibits and activities for all ages and interests. From their new and exciting Space: Dare to Dream exhibit, to the history of Guadal-canal and the hero’s of Michigan aviation, the Air Zoo is commit-ted to bringing you intriguing ex-hibits about the history of flight.

My daughter and I brought my grandkids ages one and a half and two and a half to explore the Air Zoo. The boys were in awe of the many large aircraft and the stunning murals painted on the walls from floor to ceiling. The amusement park style rides were great fun; they’re favorite was the Flying Circus Bi-Plane Ride. The colorful cockpit was equipped with steering wheel and joystick that really worked to raise and lower the plane.

The Kids’ Corner is another must-see at the museum when visiting with small children. There are a handful of additional free rides for children on space ships,

helicopters, and airplanes. Toys including blocks and airplanes are available to play with. A favor-ite for many of the children was a magnetic space station board complete with solar panels, satel-lites and more.

A trip to the Air Zoo is a won-derful place to visit for all ages, including small children; it’s a great way to peak their interest in aerospace and science at an early age. My two and a half year old grandson summed it up best as we were walking to the car after his first visit; he said “I love Air Zoo now.”

General admissions are only $10 and include their four amusement park style rides, children four and under are FREE. The Air Zoo is open Monday – Saturday 9am -5pm and Sunday Noon -5pm. The Air Zoo is located in Portage at 6151 Portage Road.

The Air Zoo also offers spring break and summer science day camps for children aged PreK-6th grade. For more information visit their website at airzoo.org, or call 382-6555.

By Jackie Merriam

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Fun Facts about February • It is the shortest month of the year.

• The Welsh call February “y mis bach” which means “little month”.

• It is the third month of winter.

• In the Southern Hemisphere February is a summer month the

equivalent of August.

• The month is named for the Latin word februum, which means purification.

• Together with January, it was the last of the months added to the

Roman calendar.

• The largest American sporting event of the year, the Super Bowl, is held

in February.

• The Saxon term for the month, Sol-monath, means “cake month”. This is be

cause they offered cakes to the gods during this month.

February Is…

American Heart Month During the month of February, Americans see the human heart as the symbol

of love. February is American Heart Month, a time to show yourself the love.

Learn about your risks for heart disease and stroke and stay “heart healthy” for

yourself and your loved ones.

Black History Month Black History Month is an annual celebration to remember and learn more

about the history and culture of Black Americans and their contributions to the

history of the United States of America as well as Canada. Before Black History

Month, Black Americans were mentioned rarely in history books, and mostly only

as slaves. Black History Month became a time to celebrate them for their achieve-

ments. A similar holiday is celebrated in the United Kingdom in October.

National Dental Health Month In 1950, the American Dental Association worked with Congress to program

February 6th as National Children’s Dental Health Day. Now the entire month of

February is considered Dental Health Month. The American Dental Association

(ADA) sponsors the month to raise awareness about the importance of

oral health.

Chinese New Year – February 19 Chinese New Year also known as Lunar New Year or Spring Festival is the first

day of the Chinese (Lunar) calendar. Celebrated by Chinese people around the

world, it is a major holiday where friends and family gather for a reunion dinner

and celebration. Red clothing is worn to ward away evil spirits and bad fortune

and new clothing symbolizes starting the year anew.

Free Art Workshops for Children and Teens

Are you looking for something fun to do on a weekend winter afternoon? The Westminster Art Festival is now offering free art workshops for children aged 5-12 and their VIP (very important older person) on Feb. 15 and for teens on Feb. 22, 2015. These in-teractive, Saturday workshops will be held at Westminster Presbyte-rian Church at 1515 Helen Street in Portage from 2-5pm. The festival’s theme, Garden of Hope, will be the focus of the art ses-sions. Funding for the workshops has been provided by a grant from the Beim Foundation.

Artist and Art Therapist, Monica Kovach, LLPC, has designed the

workshops to allow partici-pants to express their unique vision of hope. “Hope looks, feels, sounds, smells and tastes different to each person,” says Monica. She plans to assist children in creating their own “garden of hope” using a range of materials: glue guns, glitter, gemstone stickers, markers, colored pencils, wire, paper, natural materials, recycled objects, as well as soil and succulent plants. Partici-pants may take their pieces home and then choose to enter their sculptures in the Westminster Art Festival, which opens next month on

March 22.Children and teens can bring their sculptures to 1515 Helen Street between March 3-14, Monday-Friday 2-6pm, Saturday from 10 am-2pm, and Sunday 1-3pm. Registration forms will be avail-able at the workshops or can be downloaded from the Westmin-ster Art Festival Facebook page. Juried prize awards are available for each of the four age categories: Kindegarten-2nd grade, 3rd-5th grades, 6-8 grades and 9-12 grades. Adults entering the show are eligible for juried awards of $1000, $500, a Committee award of $200, and a People’s Choice award of $500.

Whether or not youth participants choose to enter the exhibition, Monica hopes that building these sculptures will foster a sense of bonding and accomplish-ment between the child and their VIP and among teens in a fun, creative and collaborative atmosphere. For more information, visit the Westminster Art Festival Facebook page or contact Monica at [email protected]. For registration, call (269) 344-3966. By Lindsay South


free february EventsThrough May 17, 2015Kalamazoo for the Union ExhibitCivil War history through the Eyes of people in Kalamazoo CountyKalamazoo Valley Museum373-7990

February 1Township History: Prairie RondeKalamazoo Valley MuseumMary Jane Stryker Theater1:30pm (seating is limited)373-7990 February 1Music: 7th Son Blues Jam open jam, everyone welcomeOld Dog Tavern6-9pm381-5677

February 1, 8, 15, 22Bell’s Eccentric CaféSunday Team TriviaDoors open at 5pmTrivia 6pm – 8pm382-2332

February 3ARTBreak: Elaine Seaman,Curator of Second Sight/Insight 2Does a picture Really tell a Thousand words?Kalamazoo Institute of Arts12 -1pm349-7775

February 3Food For Your SoulHow to make healthy mealsthat comfort the soul withwith Keneisha Morgan-Darden,restaurant owner & author orCooking ‘N Heelz.Alma Powell Branch Library6-7pm342-9837 February 3, 10, 17, 24Music: Tom DuffieldBoogie Woogie Old Dog Tavern5pm381-5677

February 4-5Kal. Bach Festival EducationalOutreach EventCome and hear how beautifulchoral music is created.Light Fine Arts Center9:15am-1:30pm337-7407 February 4, 11, 18, 25Ladies Night Dance PartyWith DJ’sOld Dog Tavern9pm381-5677

February 5Chicago Afrobeat ProjectA 7-14 piece world music ensembleBell’s Eccentric Café8pm382-2332 February 5Music: Jason SingerSinger, SongwriterOld Dog Tavern9pm-1am381-5677

February 6Kalamazoo Art HopDowntown Kalamazoo& In the Park Trades Center5 – 9pm342-5059

February 7Storytelling Festival, Words That HealStorytellers, vendor fair, arts &Crafts and books galore.Kalamazoo Valley Museum10am – 5pm373-7990

February 7Winter Snow PartyEnjoy the outdoors with family & friends. Decorate & bring your own cardboard sled and compete for best in show & fastest sled. Snow-man building contest, bonfire & more!Oakland Drive Park12-3pm329-4522

February 7First Saturday Stories, activities, guests & prizesKalamazoo Public LibraryCentral Branch2-3:30pm342-9837

February 7All Ears Theatre: The Cowfoot Stand DownPerforming newly scripted radioprograms for live audiences to bebroadcast later on WMUk-FMFirst Baptist Church6pmkalamazooarts.org February 8Music: Old Time JamOld Dog Tavern2-5pm381-5677

Music: Gator Boys Blues BandOpen JamOld Dog Tavern6-9pm381-5677

February 10ARTBreak Film: Keninde Wiley,An Economy of GraceFeatures New York based visualartist, know for his larger-than-life reinterpretations of classical portraits.Kalamazoo Valley Museum12-1pm349-7775

February 12Archaeology Extravaganza and exhibitSneak preview and receptionKalamazoo Valley Museum5-7pm373-7990

February 12Women & Investing: Financially and in Your HealthZach Alkhamis, CRPCBravo Restaurant & Café5:30pm (Appetizers served)RSVP: 978-0238 February 12Music: ThunderwudeOld Dog Tavern9pm-12am381-5677 February 13Music: Hired HandsAmericanaOld Dog Tavern5-8pm

February 14 Through August 30Evidence Found: Explorations In ArchaeologyLearn the real science and

methodology Of archaeology in this new visual and Hands on exhibit.Kalamazoo Valley Museum373-7990

February 14Romance Alive!Romance writers will give practical tips to spice up your love life.Portage District Library1-3pm329-4544

February 14Snowshoes, Trees & Fungi, Oh My!Snowshoes provided by Lee’s Adventure Sports while they lastNature Hike with/without snowSchrier Park in Portage2pm329-4522

February 15Free Art Workshop for ChildrenFor ages 5-12 & a Very Important Person(parent, older sibling, neighbor, etc.)Create a “garden of Hope”Bring one small meaningful item(ie: a rock, figurine, feather, shell, etc.) Westminster Presbyterian ChurchRSVP by February 111-4pm344-3966

February 15Civil War QuiltsKalamazoo Valley MuseumMary Jane Stryker Theater1:30pm (seating is limited)373-7990 February 15Music: Nashon Holloway 11am-2pmMusic: Cat in the Hat Open Jam, 6-9pmOld Dog Tavern381-5677

February 18Olivia Mainville ConcertAn eclectic blend of indie-folksounds, foot-tapping rhythmsand memorable harmonies.Kalamazoo Public Library –Central Branch7-8pm342-9837 February 19Music: Nashon HollowayOld Dog Tavern 9pm-1am381-5677

February 21Archaeology, Fragments fromthe Past.Learn more about the human side ofhistory with artifacts, fossils & anthro-pology.Kalamazoo Valley Museum1-4pm373-7990

February 21Come Spin With Us: A Demo by the Weavers’ Guild of KalamazooPortage District Library2-3:30pm329-4544

February 21All Ears Theatre: The Adventures of ZorroPerforming newly scripted radio programs for live audiences to be later broadcast on WMUK/FM.First Baptist Church6pmkalamazooarts.org

February 22Kalamazoo Record & CD ShowKalamazoo County Expo Center11am-4pm(734) 604-2540

February 22Free Art Workshop for TeensCreate a “garden of hope”(bring one small meaningful object(ie: rock, figurine, shell, feather…)Westminster Presbyterian ChurchRSVP by February 111-4pm344-3966 February 22Music: Graham Parsons 11am-2pmMusic: Crossroads Blues Band Open Jam6-9pmOld Dog Tavern381-5677

February 22Read All About It: Oral TraditionIn the African American CulturePortage District Library2-3:30pm329-4544

February 23Picturing Kalamazoo’s PastTake a look at more than 100 years of Kalamazoo’s history through thework of 6 notable photographers.Kalamazoo Public Library – Central Branch7-8pm342-9837 February 26Music: Abigail StaufferOld Dog Tavern9pm-1am381-5677

February 26Sidewalk Chalk ConcertLive Band hip-hop, funk and R&B from Chicago.Bell’s Eccentric Café8pm382-2332

February 27ArtifactoryThe Friends of Poetry collaborate With the museum in this annualCelebration of Kalamazoo Life & historyKalamazoo Valley MuseumMary Jane Stryker Theater1:30pm (seating is limited)373-7990

February 26Pfizer & Zoetis Employees Open House to Discuss Retirement & Sav-ings Plans QuestionsZack AlkhamisThe Retirement Wealth Mgmt. Group5pm (light refreshments served)RSVP: 978-0238


free entree

Good News February 2015

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