Good News May 2016

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Q: My shoes feel a bit too tight and they hurt my feet after wearing them for a short time. Do you have any

suggestions? A: Yes, shoes can be stretched to give your feet more room. Stretching can increase length and width (though extending length is most successful on flat shoes), as well as stretch specific areas, like too-tight toes. Bring your shoes in today, and we will gladly evaluate the fit and offer stretching solutions when pos-sible.

Q: What is the best way to replace a missing tooth?

A: Dental implants are an amazing solution for missing teeth as well as securing a removable denture. Implants will

replace everything an individual has lost - a beautiful smile, the ability to laugh and eat comfortably and the self-confidence that comes from having a healthy smile. An implant is a titanium root in combination with a strong, beautiful porcelain crown that replaces the natural tooth. It functions in exactly the same manner as a natural tooth and most likely will last a lifetime. This simple, permanent solution can transform how you feel about your smile - giving you back your confidence as well as incredible, natural function. Call our office today to schedule your evaluation with Dr. Dennis to discuss the many dental options available.

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Susan M. Dennis D.D.S.

Experts Q & A

Share your expertise with thousands of readers by advertising in this targeted featureplease contact: Jackie Merriam (269) 217-0977 [email protected]

“First in Sports Equipment” was Miller & Boerman’s slogan. They were a favorite with local sports enthusiasts for over 50 years in downtown Kalamazoo, opening their doors on Michigan Avenue, February 1, 1930.

The original location was at 316 W. Michigan, the home of the old Greyhound bus station. The business moved to the First Federal Building at 330 W. Michigan in 1934 and to its final location at 502 S. Burdick St, on the corner of Cedar & Burdick in 1965. The building was originally a grocery story and now houses the Blue Dolphin.

Miller & Boerman was named after the men who started the business: Rudel (Rudy) Miller and Samuel (Sam) Miller, both local athletic standouts during the 1920’s.

When you mention the store today, long-time residents love sharing their fond memories of

shopping for their first baseball glove or bowling ball. Miller & Boerman originally sold a large variety of sports equipment, but later had to specialize to remain

successful. Their focus became bowling, scuba diving and ski equipment, along with their gun shop, originally operated by L.J Tolley and later operated by his

stepson, George Higgins.At one time, there were 3

generations of Millers working at the store at one time: Rudy, his son Gene, who started working there when he was only 14 years old, and Gene’s son’s Kevin, Steven & Craig.

Unfortunately Miller & Boerman closed their doors in March of 1982, due in part to high utility costs, lack of walk-in traffic and tough economic conditions. Shopping also slowed downtown as the malls and big box stores began to open in the suburbs.

Miller & Boerman, along with other long-standing downtown sporting good stores, such as Shau Powell and Warren Sporting Goods, bring back fond memories of the past.

Jackie Merriam

remember when Miller & Boerman Sporting Goods


May is National Bike Month, which includes an ever-expanding array of events in our community and nationwide. National Bike to Work Week is May 16-20 — but the biggest day of the month is Friday, May 20, which is Bike to Work Day.

Biking is so enjoyable; you can easily get lost in thought while riding and not even realize that you had a great workout. You get the same cardiovascular benefits from cycling that you get from any other form of aerobic exercise—walking, jogging or dancing and it’s easier on your joints. You will also improve posture, coordination, and muscle strength and decrease body fat levels!

There is no better feeling that heading out on your bike to feel a sense of freedom and exhilaration, and biking is known to reduce stress levels too. My grandson is just learning to ride a bike with training wheels and you can see his face bursting with pride and excitement as he pedals faster and faster around the cul-de- sac in front of my home.

It doesn’t matter if your bike is a garage sale find or your dream bike – get out and enjoy the season and celebrate national bike month!

P.S. – be sure to check out kalamazoobikeweek.com for the many fun events in this area.

Jackie Merriam

This publication does not specifically endorse advertisers or their products or services. No part of this publication may be reprinted or other-wise reproduced without the written permission from the publisher.

Welcome to the Good News Paper

Planting Season has Finally Arrived!The frost-free date for our area

is not quite here yet, but there’s a lot to do to prepare for a green-thumber’s favorite time of year – planting season! There are many cool-weather crops that may be put in now, such as pansies, peas, onions, lettuce, broccoli, strawberries, trees, gladiolus bulbs, and more. Now is also the time to plan out your flower garden areas. An ounce of garden soil preparation is worth a pound of flowers – isn’t that how the saying goes?

Before planting vegetable or flower gardens, check out the weed population. If perennial broadleaf weeds or grasses are numerous, I recommend spraying KillZall to clear them out before planting. Spray KillZall twenty-four hours after a rain or irrigation, then wait three days. After that, till the soil and water well, then wait ten days for

signs of any regrowth. If needed, spray again, wait three days, till the soil, then begin planting any time. Eradicating perennial weeds before planting will save hours and hours of weeding this summer.

Now, as spring planting begins, condition and improve the soil in your gardens. It’s time to add composted cow manure, compost, and sphagnum peat moss to raise organic levels in depleted soils. Use Clay Soil Conditioner and gypsum to soften hard soil, improve drainage, and increase root growth. If you are not sure what your soil needs, feel free to bring a couple cups of soil in to Wedel’s for a free analysis and pH test.

George Wedel has had over 60 years of experience planting gardens and has developed the following recipe for optimum growth.

George’s Recipe for Great Annual & Perennial Flower and Vegetable Beds

Mix the following ingredients into the top 5” of the garden topsoil. The following should condition approximately 100 sq. ft. (10’ x 10’ or 5’ x 20’).

• 4 cu. ft. Perlite• Two bags of Dairy Doo

organic composted manure• 4 cu. ft. Sphagnum Peat Moss• 25 lb. bag of Healthy Garden

Organic fertilizer• Two 1.4 qt. Myke’s Annual

& Perennial or Myke’s Vegetable Garden Mycorrhizae

Use Fertilome Water Soluble Plant Food or Fertilome organic fish emulsion in June & July.

Provide the best root zone for your plants and lawn and they will reward you handsomely.

Another “must” in my perennial beds is Miracle Gro Garden Weed Preventer. Shake this on wherever weeding is completed so the weeds won’t return, it will save you many hours of weeding time throughout the coming season!

Any time you have a garden question, the Plant Doctors at Wedel’s are always glad to help. Happy Gardening!

Terrie Schwartz Wedel’s Nursery, Florist & Garden Center

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FRIENDS BOOKSTOREKalamazoo Public Library Lower-Level 315 S. Rose St. Wed. 12-7, Thur.-Sat. 10-4

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If you would like to share your unique business with thousands of readers please contact

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Home Decor Liven up your space with Living Plants!

Imagine…you walk into a room, you see a plant in every corner, on every shelf and on every ledge. It’s a bright sunny day, but the room feels dim as the plants suffocate the light. In your home, this may be a case of “too much of a good thing.” Now imagine walking into a room with neutral colors, a few books on the coffee table, maybe a non-descript rug on the floor. What type of room was this, a waiting room for the dentist or doctor? A room with no living plants can feel sparse, almost institutional. The answer is balance. But how do you know when too much, is too much? Or too little is too little?

There really isn’t a rule. It’s completely subjective. You’re probably thinking I’m not much help, right? But the truth is, I do have a rule that I live by and I’ll share it with you. When your eyes move around a room, you are naturally drawn to focal points. Nothing creates a focal point like the soft lines and bright green color of a living plant against the background of textural and angular lines in your home. Similar to an artist’s painting, the lines of the room bring your eyes to a focal point. This explains why when you have too many plants, your eyes don’t know where to focus and it appears chaotic, overwhelming. Too few and your focal point defaults to the dull and boring, non-descript areas of the room.

Take the plants out of your room and look around. What areas are your eyes naturally drawn? This may be a clue on

where you should place your plants. Stand in different areas of the room to find different focal points depending on your vantage point. Use your own judgment. How does it make you feel? Is it calming or smothering the space? Are the plants interfering with the function of the room? Are you tripping over them? If so, you may need to edit a few and disperse them around the house or offer as a gift to a friend. In my experience, use no more than a handful before it begins to feel like too much of a good thing.

The container that holds your beautiful living plant is an opportunity to make a statement and draw the eye in, use colorful ceramic pots and ditch the plastic. If living plants really aren’t your style, try using colorful fruit or

fresh cut flowers in clear glass vessels n your kitchen or great room. Anything alive with color will add warmth and color to your space.

Save our Bees! Whether your plants will be inside or outside, we must be mindful of what chemicals our plants and flowers have been treated with. Many big box garden centers sell plants that have been treated with neonicotinoids, pesticides highly toxic to bees, butterflies and other insect pollinators. Instead of helping our bees and monarch butterflies, we are killing them! When the bees take the pollen back to their hive it can cause the entire colony to weaken and collapse. The best way to ensure what you are buying is safe and free of harmful pesticides is to

buy organically grown plants. Purchase from your local nursery and ask a lot of questions!

Here is a fun and easy experiment. Browse the pages of a home design magazine. You’ll notice that almost every photograph of a room has at least one strategically placed plant or vase of flowers. Now place your finger over the plant and see how it changes the feel of the room. You’ll discover how one little plant really does liven up a room!

Julie Hite-Neilitz of HITE HOUSE Couture Your chic home decor store of Kalamazoo. www.hite-house.com 210 S Kalamazoo Mall & 6360 Stadium Drive

H I T E H O U S E

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Spring has arrived! While we delight in the onset of warmer weather and longer days, the not so pleasant part of the season are the parasites and pests that plague our pets, and sometimes us. That’s right, it is flea and tick season, and soon the mosquitos will arrive too. Just as you would prepare for the arrival of a guest in your home, animal lovers can take steps to prepare and protect their pets. So, here is The Good, The Bad and The Ugly as it pertains to fleas, ticks and mosquitos.

The Good The old saying, “An ounce of

prevention is worth a pound of cure” rings true when it comes to keeping pests away. It’s much simpler (and more cost effective) to take home.

Ticks can be picked up from woody areas or from tall grasses. If you go hiking with your dog or allow your cat outdoors, be sure to check them for ticks and remove any you find before they have a chance to latch on. A flea and tick comb can be handy for this. If you find a tick, check out the video for proper removal.

Mosquitos are the carriers of heartworm disease. Keeping your pet on year-round preventative is vital to combating this disease, and is much less expensive than treatment. KAR cared for and treated five heartworm positive dogs in 2014 and six so far this year. The treatment is expensive and is hard on the animal’s system. Unfortunately, there is no treatment for cats, so it’s important to keep your indoor and outdoor feline friends on heartworm medication.

Pet owners have a number of preventative product options available to them. The medications come in pill, tablet, chewable

or topical form. Many of these products address multiple conditions, such as heartworm, fleas (eggs and adults), ticks and internal parasites. The best course of action is to dis-cuss the options with your veteri-narian. Your geographic location, pet’s age, breed, weight and overall health condition are all factors that need to be considered. Your vet can advise you on the safest and most cost effective option for each furry friend in your house-hold. Medications for cats are different than for dogs. It is also important to follow label direc-tions and administer the proper dosage at the right time.

The Bad Fleas, ticks and mosquitos carry

dangerous diseases. They can make your pet’s life (and yours) miserable. Each pest is capable of causing a host of medical issues in your dog or cat, including:

• Fleas – skin allergies, hot spots, skin infections, scratching misery and tapeworms. Allergic

reactions can lead to infection and hair loss. Large infestations can cause anemia.

• Ticks – Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, Lyme disease, tick paralysis and Ehrlichiosis.

• Mosquitos – West Nile virus, heartworm disease and roundworms.

Pet caregivers should take steps to minimize their cat or dog’s exposure to these pests, both indoors and out. Wash your pet’s bedding frequently and vacuum high- traffic areas and where your pet sleeps. Outside, clear away brush and debris such as leaves from places where your animals roam.

The Ugly Here are some interesting, but

perhaps disgusting facts about these blood-sucking creatures:

• Fleas – There are 3,000 different types of fleas. The “cat flea” is the most common found on both felines and canines. A female flea can lay 30-50 eggs a day. The eggs drop to the ground

to invade carpet and upholstery. Once fleas are in your

home, it can quickly become an infestation. Getting rid of fleas can take several months.

• Ticks – There are approximately 850 species of ticks. A female tick can lay up to 3,000 eggs. Ticks live exclusively on the blood of their host. Peak tick season is spring and late fall. Adult ticks are most active during cooler months.

• Mosquitos – There are 22 species of mosquitos in the U.S. that carry heartworm disease. Some females can hibernate during the winter to lay eggs in the spring. A female can lay 100-400 eggs and they need stagnant water to reproduce. The females suck blood and the males drink nectar. Dusk to dawn is peak mosquito biting time.

KAR Newsletter, April 2015 reprinted with permission from Kalamazoo Animal Rescue. Lynn Bolhuis

Pets Fleas and Ticks and Mosquitos, Oh My!

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These days, with the likes of Internet sales, popular TV shows like American Pickers or Pawn Stars, and second hand shops that pay cash on the spot for things, it seems like every item has value. Yes, there are items which are worth more and sell best and there are the items which values have dropped completely and prove a hard sale. They usually sell for pennies on your dollars spent. Wondering what to salvage and what to donate? Let me give you some guidelines on how to earn cash from your vintage treasures. What’s HotFURNITURE: Anything Mid Century Modern (aka MCM) is flying out of stores everywhere. The younger generations right now are loving setting up their places and spaces like a time warp to the 1950s and 1960s. Atomic patterned curtains, Pyrex dishes, kidney-shaped coffee tables, and anything with a modern and straight edge can’t be held. This is what’s hot in vintage furniture right now and that you can ask a pretty penny for. Art Deco furni-ture is also a good sell.

HOUSEWARES/HOME DÉCOR: Again, the most popular products you want to sell came to life dur-ing the middle of the 20th cen-tury. Look for starburst clocks, old Bakelite radios and telephones for props, which are popular. Kitchen dishes and small appliances from the 50s fly off the shelf. Items such as patterned tall and skinny drinking glasses or bar sets. These are sure to fetch you some cash. FASHION: Clothing is ever changing. Circle skirts, peter pan collars, saddle shoes, or fluffy prom dresses may always stay on point for vintage looks. Right now, the teens and 20-something are eating up the 1980s looks. Graphic tees, leather skinny pants, and sequins prom gowns are going fast along with heavily pattern and flowy clothing noted as “Boho” style. Contrary to what many think, costume jewelry is hot. The bigger and blingy-er, the better. Salvage these from the closets if possible. What’s NotFURNITURE: Colonial style furniture or big, dark, and heavy pieces are totally out. Also, the

1980s brought a revival to the “country” look. Pass on these things too as they are simply dated. The younger buyers are just not digging these clunky and large items right now, but look for items with clean lines and a modern appeal.HOUSEWARE/HOME DÉCOR: Col-lectibles are completely out. I would say it’s nearing a dead market. Glassware is out. I’m talking about Fenton, vases, candy dishes and the like. Full china sets and sterling flatware can still be sold, but overall are a dying item unless used for a purpose- like a vintage-inspired wed-ding.FASHION: Polyesters are ter-rible. They don’t store well, have little value, and don’t last long. Only consider keeping it if it’s a loud mini dress with a bright and vibrant pattern. Straight, plain, and monochromatic fashion is totally out. With these tips, you will be sure

to have a successful go at making some extra cash with your vintage goodies!

Mrs. Janice Glasser is a vintage clothing and accessory expert and ap-praiser with over 16 years experience in the vintage marketplace. Follow her on Facebook at www.facebook.com/TheVintageStylist.

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For book recommendations from your Kalamazoo Public Library Staff go to

www.kpl.gov/blog/

The top books published this month that librarians across the country love

Every Heart a Doorwayby Seanan McGuire

“What happens to children who find a doorway into a fantasy land, and then come back into the mundane world? It’s certainly not a happily ever after scenario for these children, but those that find their way to Eleanor West’s school are learning to cope. Shortly after Nancy comes to the school, a series of horrific events occur. It’s up to her and others at the school to figure out who is commit-ting these atrocities. This book is so wonderfully written.”

Jennifer Kelley, Kershaw County Library, Camden, SC

Tuesday Nights in 1980by Molly Prentiss

“Following the lives of three individuals in New York on the cusp of 1980, this book was struc-tured in such a unique and original way. Lucy is in her early twenties, experiencing life in a big city; James who after college finds himself the reigning critic of the art world and Raul, escaping the post Peron Dirty War in Argentina will find himself the art world’s new favorite; these three will find their lives entwined in many ways. A tragic accident will change all these characters and others close to them. This is a wonderful book that I wasn’t ready to finish.”

Diane Scholl, Batavia Public Library, Batavia, IL

Eligible: A Modern Retelling of Pride and Prejudiceby Curtis Sittenfeld

“Love, sex, and relationships in contemporary Cincinnati provide an incisive social commentary set in the framework of Pride and Prejudice. Sitten-feld’s inclusion of a Bachelor-like reality show is a brilliant parallel to the scrutiny placed on char-acters in the neighborhood balls of Jane Austen’s novel, and readers will have no question about the crass nature of the younger Bennets, or the pride—and prejudice—of the heroine.”

Leslie DeLooze, Richmond Memorial Library, Batavia, NY

Lilac Girls: A Novelby Martha Hall Kelly

“This is story of the Ravensbruck Rabbits: seventy-four women prisoners in the Ravensbruck con-centration camp. Using alternating first-person narratives, the characters relate their experiences from 1939 through 1959. Drawing upon a decade of research, Hall reconstructs what life was like in Ravensbruck. More than a war story, this is a tale of how the strength of women’s bonds can carry them through even the most difficult situations. Lilac Girls is a solid, compelling historical read.”

Andrea Larson, Cook Memorial Public Library, Libertyville, IL

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Giving into Exuberance

Jane: Ellen calls me today and shouts into the phone, “I GOT THE JOB!

I am her mother/primary cheerleader so I hurrah and congratulate and demand all the details. “Can I tell Grandma?” I ask.

“Well, hold on,” she back-tracks. “It was only a verbal offer; the paperwork will be sent out in a few days. Until I get the letter I’ll be antsy for no good reason.”

“What could happen? They won’t withdraw the offer.”

“They already contacted my references, but they still need to

do background checks.” “Ellen,” I frown into the phone.

“You don’t even have a speeding ticket—the background check is a formality. Go ahead and celebrate. Enjoy this moment. Exuberance is always fleeting. Allow yourself a day-long happy face.”

“Okay!” she relents. “I didn’t sleep well last night; probably too much excitement all at once.”

We exude happiness back and forth for a little longer before disconnecting. As I hang up the phone I think about the tricky virtue of hope. Hope is more than optimism that things will work out alright. Hope is not a pitiful longing nor is it an irrational blindness to the facts. Hope is the shine on a person’s face who is still in the middle of the struggle. It is confidence that, no matter what happens, there will be joy eventually.

Hope is essential to living today well. It is not about what happened in the past. It is not about what might happen in the future. It is about choosing to enjoy this present moment. And that isn’t always easy to do.

Ellen: I get off the phone with

my mom and call a friend who was a great support during my job search. After I relay my news, I am about to end the conversation when she interjects, “Have you bought your lotto ticket yet? The big drawing is tonight!”

I stare puzzled into space for a second before replying, “Well, no. I heard the jackpot is super big, but I have never bought a lotto ticket before. There’s, like, less than a 1% chance of winning…”

“But there is a chance!” I can hear her excitement. “That’s the fun of it! Sure, I probably won’t be an instant millionaire--but I can hope! It’s kinda like prom: more fun to anticipate than to actually go.”

I haven’t ever considered this part of playing the lotto before. After hanging up, I continue to ponder, and realize that a lot of things I enjoy are as much for the advance build-up as they are for the fun during and the good memories after. In many ways the

enjoyment is in the entire process, not just any one stage, even when the result isn’t quite what I hoped.

My mom’s advice about giving into the exuberance of my new job sneaks back into my thoughts. Fine. It’s time to celebrate, background checks notwithstanding. But how best to do so? It only takes me a moment to come up with my favorite solution. I’ll go to the bookstore for a new book! Already smiling, I grab my coat and keys and head for the door.

I wonder what kind of book I’ll get? I hope my favorite author has a new one!

Jane & Ellen Knuth

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GET READY TO BE ON THE WATER!Come in and check out our great selection of kayaks and stand up boards. Lee’s has recre-ational easy paddling kayaks to full on touring

models and many models in-between.Ask about our Kayak Demos on May 14 and 21

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Kalamazoo Community Foun-dation Offers Education Assis-tance to Women

Applications for grants from

the Women’s Education Coalition (WEC) Fund at the Kalamazoo Community Foundation are due May 15.

WEC support is for underem-

ployed or unemployed women, with significant breaks in their pursuit of a part or full-time certificate or degree program, who are in need of education to be-come financially self-sufficient.

Grants are based on need and

are renewable, and are available to residents of Kalamazoo, Allegan, Barry, Calhoun, St. Joseph, and Van Buren Counties. There are no minimum or maximum award limits; however, the typical range is $500 to $3,000. Grants are for tuition, fees, books, and may also cover related costs like child care and transportation.

“This is a very unique grant program,” says Brittany Morton, scholarship coordinator at the Community Foundation. “Recipi-ents demonstrate how post-high school education will help them reach their goals of increased financial independence. The fund supports any educational oppor-tunities that will lead to employ-ment or improved employment. Priority will be given to underem-

ployed working mothers and those enrolled or enrolling in nonprofit educational institutions.”

WEC was established at the

Community Foundation in 1995 by Alpha Kappa Alpha Soror-ity, Delta Signma Theta Sorority, Kalamazoo Network, and YWCA of Kalamazoo.

Information in both English

and Spanish is online at:http://www.kalfound.org/

Scholarships/ScholarshipSearch/tabid/230/s/1386/Default.aspx. For those without computer ac-cess, the application will be mailed or arrangements can be made to visit the Community Foundation to use a computer. Call 269-381-4416 for more information.

Kalamazoo Community Foun-

dation, established in 1925, has the mission of making life better for all through leadership and stewardship of resources that last forever, with the vision of a community where every person can reach full potential. KZCF’s strategic priorities are equity and education. Learn more at www.kalfound.org.

Kalamazoo Community Foundation Offers Education Assistance to Women

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The Art of Enriching Lives campaign is seeking $5.1 million in community philanthropy to provide much needed renovations and improvements to The Kalam-azoo Civic Theatre.

They have three outstanding venues – the Civic Auditorium, the Parish Theatre, and the Carver Center Studio, all in constant use for production, rehearsals and Academy of Theatre Art classes. These buildings are aging and in need of critical infrastructure upgrades and interior renovations. Providing the best community theatre experience in a warm and professional setting is their top priority.

The Civic Auditorium was un-veiled in 1931, with funding from Dr. W.E. Upjohn. Their inspired history drives them to maintain the standards of excellence estab-lished at the beginning of their organization.

Now in its 87th season, the Civic has endured as the com-munity’s liveliest, most cherished source for quality entertainment for the entire family.

Each season, in service to our community, they provide:

• Volunteer opportunities for 1,000 volunteers

• Educational experiences for 850 students of all ages

• Entertainment for 39,000

patrons• Training, outreach, em-

ployment and partnerships to local residents, visitors, and orga-nizations

• Financial aid for over 140 participants in the Academy of Theatre Arts

• American Sign Language Interpretive Services

• Outreach to schools

They continue to honor the tradition of the Civic by evolv-ing with society and the needs of anyone who walks through their doors. With the help from our community, they will make the upgrades and renovations necessary to provide exceptional programming in safe, comfort-able, state-of-the-art facilities for generations to come.

Thanks to the generosity of individual donors, businesses, and foundations, The Art of Enriching Lives campaign has reached $4.4 million of its $5.1 million goal.

The Kalamazoo Civic Theatre recently announced that it has re-ceived a generous dollar-for-dollar matching gift from the Irving S. Gilmore Foundation for repairs to the historic Civic Auditorium. The procurement of the dollar-for-dollar matching gift will assist the Civic in reaching its campaign goal and begin work on repairing the cultural cornerstone that is the Civic. According to Kristin Che-sak, The Civics’ Executive Direc-tor, “We are very close to our goal, and now have an extraordinary opportunity to double any future gifts to the campaign!”

For more information visit their website at KazooCivic.com, Call 343-1313, or stop into The Civic theatre, located at 329 S. Park Street in downtown Kalamazoo.

The Kalamazoo civic theatre

8842 Portage Rd., Suite 101 • Portage

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My daughter and two grandsons ages 2 ½ & 3 ½ recently attended one of the fun and informative Animal Encounter programs at the Kalamazoo Nature Center.

We learned all about spiders and got to touch a tarantula exoskeleton. Tarantulas have an exoskeleton, which is an external skeleton that protects their body. This was a new word for the kids and many adults in attendance, including myself.

Animal Encounters are geared to children five and under and are attended with an adult. The Encounters occur on Wednesdays from 10 -10:45am. Kids learn about a different Michigan animal friend each week! They hear a story, color a picture, meet a live animal and enjoy a snack.

For the first 15 minutes, kids are allowed to play, color and get acclimated to their surroundings. It also serves as a nice grace period for parents who had a hard time getting their children out the door that morning.

I was very impressed with all of the teaching and learning that went on during the Animal Encounter. Lauren Knollenberg, the program leader, incorporated

many teaching moments. The kids learned about vibrations – which are how spiders are able to locate their prey.

The children were also engaged learning the difference between soft (fur) and hard (tortoise shell), as well as heavy (rock) and light (feather) and searched for wet and dry objects during our mini outdoors hike.

Lauren kept the kids engaged and was constantly changing things up from moving their bodies and asking them questions to teaching them all about spiders

The Animal Encounters are

held inside the award winning visitor center in the Expedition Station, which has rotating seasonal themes (and a cool loft for the kids!). The visitor center also has many interactive exhibits and has live animals, a tropical Sun-Rain Room, wildlife viewing areas, Glen Vista Gallery, and the Expedition Gift Shop.

Other fun family programs ideal for families with small children include Creature Features on Saturdays from 11am-Noon, Farmyard Wednesdays held at the DeLano Homestead from

10:30am - Noon ( June-August) and Nature’s Playground where kids have a great time exploring, splashing and climbing (open May 1- October 1) during regular visitor center hours.

The Kalamazoo Nature Center is located at 7000 North Westnedge Avenue in Kalamazoo. For more information call (269) 381-1574, or visit their website at naturecenter.org

Hours are Monday-Saturday 9am - 5pm Sunday 1-5pm

Daily Admission Rates Members: Free Adults: $7/Seniors $6 Children & Students (4-17) $4 Children 3 & under:

Free.For the special programs, there

is a $2 program fee per child for materials and snack (in addition to regular admission). Jackie Merriam

day trip Kalamazoo Nature Center

Open daily for Lunch and Dinner Serving Breakfast on weekends

Serving late night menu Thursday - Saturday

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Remember The Walton’s on television in the 70’s (now on Netflix or whereever)? There were three generations living together, not because of financial hardship but because that was what families did. And, they ate their meals together. We watched as they passed the food and talked about their work, their struggles, and their joys.

In the new millennium, our lives are pressured: both parents often work a full day away from their children. Children’s lives are more filled with activities away from home in addition to school. Everyone seems to be in a hurry – running here and there – and food is something we grab quickly or along the way. Our lives are filled up, but are they richer? What do we give up when we grab take-out and eat in the car? What is the focus when we eat pizza in front of the TV? What is your teen thinking when they eat their food alone in their room?

Mealtime together is an important tradition: sitting down at the table, facing each other, listening to each other, and learning social give-and-take is essential to child development,

adolescent growth, and life-skills overall. Here are some reasons why this is so important:

1. Young children need to be able to predict to feel secure. Knowing about mealtimes – to predict who will be there - is a sure way to generate a sense of safety, security, and general well-being in your kids.

2. Recent research has shown that eating together as a family reduces depression and anxiety in children. It allows discussion about their fears, struggles, and successes. It is specific time set aside for listening to them.

3. A recent article in Parenting discussed how teenagers who had family meals together had lower incidents of substance abuse. They attributed the consistent contact with family members and accountability as contributing factors in keeping kids out of drugs.

4. Young children need the family mealtime to learn from others. Mimicking parents and positive behaviors of siblings can build both relationship skills and interaction patterns. It also expands their vocabulary, develops expressive language, and

can overcome social anxiety or awkwardness.

5. Social table manners are not skills to be scoffed at. Business articles have mentioned these skills as essential to landing a job, meeting new people, or starting a business. Many companies include a meal as part of the interview process to assure that the individual’s manners (or lack thereof ) won’t embarrass the company. Family mealtime, including table manners, builds these skills.

6. Family meals together enhance self-esteem. Turning off the television, tablet, smartphone, etc. and focusing on each other tells your children they are important you. When kids count, their confidence gets a permanent boost.

So tune out the world and tune into your family. Once or twice a day eat together to develop their minds, their hearts, and their lives in positive ways.

Dr. Susan Carter is clinical director of Center for Change and Growth PLC in Kalamazoo, a play therapy center for children and families.

Positive Parenting: Eat Meals Together

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Recipes ciNCO DE MAYO SUPPER!

Ingredients -1 can Hormel No Bean Chili -1/4 cup coarsely chopped onion -1/4 cup coarsely chopped green pepper -2 cloves garlic, pressed -1-teaspoon chili powder -1-teaspoon paprika -1-teaspoon oregano -1-teaspoon cumin -1-teaspoon parsley -1-teaspoon sugar -1/2-teaspoon cayenne -6 cups chicken broth -1/2-cup hearty red wine -14 ounce canned tomatoes, diced -1 pound medium peeled and deveined raw shrimp (or other seafood)

In a large Dutch oven, combine all ingredients except shrimp. Bring to a boil; reduce heat to low, and simmer, covered, for 2 hours, stirring occasionally. Just before serving, rinse shrimp, drain then add to pot. Cook only until shrimp are no longer translucent. Add more chicken broth or red wine if mixture becomes too thick. Serve hot.

Ingredients -4 cups Mexican melting cheese (or Monterey Jack) -2 ounces cooked Chorizo, optional -1-cup beer -2 Jalapeños, diced -1-teaspoon onion powder -1-tablespoon garlic powder -1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped -1/2-teaspoon salt -Black or cayenne pepper, to taste

Bring beer to boil in medium saucepan, add chorizo, if using, and then reduce heat to low. Add cheese mixture, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring

constantly until all cheese is melted. Repeat with the remaining cheese - but do not boil. Stir in remaining ingredients then pour into a warmed serving bowl. Before serving you can put the dip under a broiler to brown the top giving it a nice crust. Sprinkle with additional jalapenos and cilantro, if desired. Serve immediately with tortilla chips, or keep warm till use.

Approximate servings per recipe: 8. Per serving: Calories 98; Fat 9g; Sodium 328mg; Carbohydrates 2g; Fiber 1g; Sugar 1g; Protein 5g.

South of the Border Seafood Bisque

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Celebrate Cinco de Mayo with fresh homemade Spanish goodness! Cooking it from scratch at home is so warm and mouth watering won-derful, one bite will make everyone shout, “Ole!” By Laura Kurella

Fast ‘n’ Fabulous Fundido


health PHUBBINGYes, this is a real word and I’ll

give you 5 seconds to give me the definition….I’m waiting. Give up? I thought you would. So here’s the definition:

Phubbing: the act of glancing at your cell phone while having a face-to-face conversation with someone.

Perhaps you’ve been “phubbed” or maybe you’ve been the phubee. If you’ve been the phubbed, as I have, the feeling is one of being dismissed or shown your irrelevancy. If you’ve been the phubee, shame on you. I totally admit that I’m a dinosaur when it comes to social media and technology. In fact my grandsons have started calling me “Rex” as in T-Rex. However this is something for which I am completely unapologetic. I happen to believe there is something unsettling about our increasing reliance on social media and believe it’s making us less well. So I’m grateful for an article written by James McWilliams “Saving the Self in the Age of the Selfie” in the current journal of “The American Scholar”. Mr. McWilliams has plenty to say.

Let’s start with the average attention span of American adults. Care to guess? It’s 8 seconds! This is less than a preschool student. This is amply supported by research as well as endless anecdotes from mindful individuals who have lost their ability

to stay focused. The typical example is trying to read a book and reading the same paragraph over and over again.

McWilliams believes (and I agree) there’s something more insidious going on, namely losing a sense of who we really are. Our digital world disarms our ability to protect our deeper sense of self from the media’s dominance over our lives by luring us with assurances of convenience. The struggle, I believe, is how to form relationships with technology in which WE determine the use of digital media rather than giving into cybernetic tyranny.

He offers 4 habits than can be cultivated to build character-building behaviors that, once they become ingrained, can nurture our weapons of resistance rather than exchange them for the conveniences of the

Internet. They are:1. Spending time alone2. Engaging in meaningful

conversations3. Forming friendships4. Pursuing an activity with a

communityIf we can tolerate being alone,

without distraction, we may hear the whisperings of our consciousness that we are the only person on earth who can answer the critical questions of “What’s it like to be you?” There is no better value of isolation than the opportunity to answer this question.

But isolation is only temporary. Time spent alone with your thoughts and feelings are a preamble to another meaningful experience: face-to-face conversation. Conversation, when done correctly, is more than the functional exchange of information.

It has the potential to be a payoff in self-knowledge, empathy, and the experience of community, perhaps discovering what we have hidden from ourselves.

Deep conversations can lead to another element of self-identity: friendship. (I happen to think that Facebook “friends” are an insult to the meaning of true friendship.) Friendship mellows over time, not instantaneously granted by a click of a mouse. Those who are fortunate enough to have deep friendships can rely upon a genuine feedback and reflection of who they are, for better or worse.

The 4th component of identity protection is done within a social context leading to participation in a group activity. Joining a team, club, religious organization, a band or any group that can cultivate a special commitment to something that is not “about us” typically does this. This leads to arrangements, which require you to teach and be taught, to lead and to be led, to humble and be humbled. In other words, being away from the self-reinforcing screen or tablet that we watch.

Heavy stuff? I think so. Valuable? You bet!

Ken Dettloff ACECertified Personal Trainer.

269.342.5686 pfcmarkets.com

Shop Any of Our Local Marketsfor the Freshest Goods in Town

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Wednesdays3pm – 7pm

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SundaysNoon – 4pm

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SNAP, Double Up Food Bucks, WIC Project FRESH & Market FRESH Accepted

Maple Branch 1001 W. Maple St. Kalamazoo MI 49008 269-345-9622

Portage Branch 2900 W. Centre St. Portage MI 49024 269-324-9622

CELEBRATING ALL MOMS Moms of all ages are invited to Try the Y for free!

To celebrate our 150th Anniversary serving the Greater Kalamazoo area, we’re inviting all moms to Try the Y for free during Mother’s Day Weekend (Friday through Sunday.) Join on the same day, and we’ll waive the joiner fee. And, our new rates make membership affordable, now more than ever.

We’re not just a gym. We’re a community center built up through a membership that lifts our neighbors and each other.

The Y. For All.

FOR YOUTH DEVELOPMENT® FOR HEALTHY LIVING FOR SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY

kzooymca.org

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The Wentzel family invites your family to visit and experience the beautiful colors of spring!

Opening May 4th!


“Hometown Goodness” is the phrase that comes to mind when I think about Nancy Morehouse and her restaurant, Nancy’s Kitchen, located in Plainwell.

Home cooked favorites like your grandma used to make are what you can expect at Nancy’s. In fact, her grandmother’s kitchen was the inspiration for the restaurants casual atmosphere, with its mixture of mismatched dining chairs and dishes. The 1911 building adds to the charm.

Breakfast favorites include homemade biscuits and gravy – an old time favorite that sticks to your ribs. Cheesy hash brown potato breakfast casserole and their breakfast burrito filled with chopped sausage, cheesy hash browns, scrambled eggs and cheese, covered with sausage gravy and cheese. Oh, and of course the popular cinnamon rolls that are available Friday through Sunday only.

For lunch, try their customer’s favorite, homemade chicken salad, the new Havarti bourbon burger or the pan seared salmon filet served on a salad or inside a pita.

Nancy was born and raised in Plainwell and her husband grew up in Plainwell as well. They’ve raised three children who reside in Plainwell and are proud of their five grandchildren, all Plainwell students. She loves small town Plainwell and supports the community in many ways, especially Plainwell Days, which she wanted me to be sure to mention. For all of the exciting events ( June2-5 this year) see facebook/plainwelldaysfestival.

Nancy’s Kitchen opened in November of 2006, and filled a niche that was seriously lacking in the local community ~ ready to serve individual, home cooked meals. Every meal is prepared to be not only tasty, but also nutritious, filling and is also easy on your pocket book. Nancy’s Kitchen is the perfect place for a single person or for families when they don’t have time to cook a meal.

Order your family dinner or boxed lunch ahead of time or visit the restaurant for breakfast or lunch daily from 7am-2pm.

Catering is available for all occasions, with delicious choices for everything from graduation parties to weddings. They can work within most budgets. The restaurant is also available after 2pm for showers and private gatherings with seating for up to 30 people.

Nancy’s Kitchen is located at 615 Bridge Street, next door to Plainwell Ice Cream. For more information visit their website at nancy-kitchen.com, follow them on Facebook at facebook/nancys-kitchen-kafe or call 685-2115.

Stop in for some hometown goodness today!

Jackie Merriam

EAT nancy’s kitchen

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Hours: M - F 8am to 5pm; Sat 9am to 4pm. 29891 E. Red Arrow Hwy. at 30th - Paw Paw (269) 657-4577 greatlakespondscapes.com


April showers bring May flowers, and boy did we get some showers in April! Some of you might be wonder-ing what kind of plants to get for this spring season, or maybe you don’t want all of the work that comes with spring vegetation. I have a wonderful suggestion: plant flowers and vegetation that is na-tive to Michigan! One of the best examples of why native plants should be grown in-stead of plants from other habitats is the spruce tree. Spruce trees are struggling to survive in Michigan. They were actually transplanted from the Rocky Mountains to Michigan, and the Rocky Moun-tains is a very different environ-ment.

In fact, spruce trees are exposed to a greater number of pests and diseases in Michigan than in their native habitat. One particular dis-ease that is affecting spruce trees, especially Colorado blue spruce, is Phomopsis canker. This disease causes the branches on the tree to wither and die. The only way to prevent this disease, along with many others, is to apply pesticides, which are horrible for the envi-ronment. Why not just plant vegetation that is native to Michigan? Native plants already have natural immu-nities to local diseases and pests, which means that you don’t have to apply pesticides. Native plants are easier to maintain and support other local organisms and ecosys-

tems. To learn about na-tive plant species you can visit your local greenhouse or look on the web. A very use-ful website is http://www.nativeplant.com/plants/search/input. This website gives you information on na-tive Michigan plant species with pictures, how tall they get, how much water and sun-light they need, and when they bloom. Let the April show-ers bring Michigan native May flowers to your garden to help the environment!

Judy SmithHigh School StudentGalesburg-Augusta/KAMSC

The City of Portage and People’s Food Co-op of Kalamazoo are partnering to launch a new weekly farmers market called the Por-tage Market. The inaugural event will be held on Sunday, May 1, noon to 4pm at the Portage Senior Center (320 Library Lane, Portage, MI). Portage Market will continue to run on Sundays through October 30. The launch follows two success-ful pilot markets held in 2015, which drew over 1000 visitors. People’s Food Co-op’s Farmers Market Manager Chris Broad-bent explained that “everyone we talked to who came to those two test markets told us they would be excited to have a weekly farm-ers market in Portage. We believe the new market will create more access to healthy food, and it’s a great way to meet farmers and food producers.”

Portage Sunday Market’s open-ing day will feature 30-40 vendors, including food trucks, fruits and vegetable vendors, artists, and more. “We’re going to take the ex-pertise and lessons we’ve learned

from operating the Kalamazoo Farmers Market for the past three years and put it to work in Portage.” Farmers Market As-sistant Manager Gaby Gerken said. People’s Food Co-op was contracted in 2013 to operate

Kalamazoo Farmers Market, and has hosted the 100-Mile Market, a small market of exclusively local vendors, since 2009. To ensure that everyone is able to eat fresh, healthy food, many vendors at the Portage Sunday Market accept SNAP benefits. In addition, many produce vendors accept Double Up Food Bucks, a program that matches SNAP Bridge Card purchases of Mich-igan-grown fruit and vegetables dollar-for-dollar. This season, vendors are accepting WIC Proj-ect FRESH and Market FRESH Coupons. A win-win situation, these programs also benefit local food producers. For additional information, please contact Farmers Market Manager Chris Broadbent (269-342-5686, [email protected]), or visit the website at pfcmarkets.com.

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Here’s a fun scoring system you may want to add to your golf league!If you are in a golf league this

year – add another unique scoring system from “the little golfing guy” and have some fun as you work your way to a special 18-hole score by the end of the year.

Here’s how it works:THE LITTLE GOLFING

GUY’S “FUN” SCORING SYS-TEMAfter each 9-hole round of your

league – gather together all of the score cards at the “19-hole” or whatever (favorite watering hole) your group likes to go to after your

round. Bring with you 9 play-ing cards – the ace through the 9 card – which will represent holes 1 through 9. Place them face down on the bar or table – and then have your lovely bar maiden turn over one of the cards. Whichever card she turns over – (let’s say it’s the 5 card) – then whatever everyone shot on the 5th hole that day will be their score for that week. (And when a golfer isn’t able to

play a certain week – those absent golfers will receive a score that is the average score for that week

plus 1 penalty stroke. So if the av-erage score that week is a 4 – golf-ers who are absent that week will receive a score of 5.)Continue doing this for 18 weeks

to eventually complete your 18-hole score. Have a spreadsheet that will record each golfers score for that

week for weeks 1 through 18. Then the golfer with the lowest 18 hole score wins! In the “little golfing guy’s” golf group – we have a special “Medalist Trophy” that the winner receives and gets to keep all year. And to add a little spice to the competition – you could also have all the golfers throw a “friendly wager” into a pot and the low score would also win that as well. So have some fun this year and

add this scoring system to whatever golf league you are in. You can find this article and other fun stuff about golf on my website at:www.kissyoury-

ipsgoodbye.com Kurt Pugh

KALAMAZOO – The long, lazy days of summer will include out-door fun and adventures for boys and girls who attend a Summer Time Adventure Camp starting in June at Rota Kiwan Scout Reser-vation.The trees and trails at Rota Kiwan

provide the perfect backdrop for activities such as hiking, fishing, and compass reading. Campers will learn, but they will likely be having too much fun to notice the life skills they will take away from

their experience.“We have designed

the activities based on the program-ming we offer in Boy Scouts,” said Scott Hagler, Camping Direc-tor for Boy Scout properties in the southern part of Michigan. “No one can offer the type of camp experience that we offer. We

want our campers to walk away with a newfound confidence and skill set.”The day camp is being offered in

six weekly sessions beginning June 27 and ending on August 5. It is open to youth in grades K-5.Each camper will be placed in

age-specific groups that will par-ticipate in a wide range of activi-ties and experiences designed to teach them about the outdoors such as science, swimming, nature,

and crafts. Each group will have a maximum of 10 children overseen by two adults.Hagler said many of the activities

will have a Scouting feel to them. He said campers who are Cub Scouts and Girl Scouts may be able to accomplish some of their advancements while completing activities at camp.“One of our best-kept secrets

is the programming we offer for girls,” Hagler said. “Our hope is that this camp will serve as an entry point for boys and girls who want to be Scouts.”Girls are able to participate in

Scouting through Venturing and Explorer programs offered by the Boy Scouts of America. Venturing and Exploring are both available to youth ages 14-20. Venturing crews can specialize

in a variety of avocation or hobby interests, including high adventure while Exploring is more career-focused. Hagler said parents are encour-

aged to come out and join their children at the camp.“Boy Scouting isn’t a spectator

sport and we want parents to know that they don’t have to stay on the sidelines,” he said.Every adult at the day camp must

have a completed and approved background check from the State of Michigan.Each weekly session will be from

8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Cost of the camp is $165 per week, per camper. Campers will need to bring a sack lunch each day. Snacks will be provided and each child will receive a free t-shirt and reusable lunch bag.To register or for more in-

formation please contact the Camp Director, Aaron Collins at 734-807-0201 or visit: http://michiganscouting.org/outdoorad-ventures/properties/rota-kiwans-cout-reservation/

Jane Parikh

Fun Golf Scoring System

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Weekends - Golf w/ Cart(After 3pm)


The Stulberg International String Competition has selected the 12 young artists as semifinalists for its 2016 competition, the 41st annual event set for May 21 on the cam-pus of Western Michigan Univer-sity.This year’s competitors include

both local and international flavor, with performers from Michigan, Canada and Germany. Many of the musicians are violinists, though the competition will also feature a cellist and a violist.

The 2016 semifinalists are:

Austin Berman, 19, of Berwyn, PA (violin)Zachary Brandon, 17, of Battle

Creek, MI (violin)Zeyu Victor Li, 19, of Philadel-

phia, PA (violin)Nathan Meltzer, 15, of New York,

NY (violin)Aubree Oliverson, 17, of Orem,

UT (violin)Kiarra Saito-Beckman, 17, of

Bend, OR (violin)Tristan Siegel, 19, of Blooming-

ton, IN (violin)Grace Sohn, 16, of Coquitlam,

BC, Canada (cello)Yu Chao Weng, 19, of Ann Arbor,

MI (violin)

Ade Williams, 18, of Philadel-phia, PA (violin)Brenden Zak, 18, of Ocean, NJ

(violin)Silas Zschocke, 19, of Berlin,

Germany (viola)

The judges for the 2016 competi-tion are Glenn Dicterow (violin), Steven Tenenbom (viola) and Peter Wiley (cello). Dicterow is on the faculty of the University of South-ern California Thornton School of Music, and was concertmaster of the New York Philharmonic for 34 years. A faculty member at the Curtis Institute of Music, Tenen-

bom is the violist with the Orion String Quartet and piano quartet Opus One, and has performed with jazz and classical artists. Wi-ley also performs with Opus One, and teaches at the Curtis Institute of Music, University of Maryland and Bard College Conservatory of Music.The 12 semifinalists were selected

from a pool of 166 applicants, a new record number of entrants for the Stulberg International String Competition. This year’s contest will be Satur-

day, May 21, at the Dalton Center Recital Hall at WMU. Semifinal

performances will be each half hour from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. They are free to attend. The same evening, at 7:30 p.m.,

the field will be narrowed to six performers, who will compete in the finals. From there, a top three will be named. Tickets for the finals performances are $20 for adults or $5 for students. They will be available April 1 at www.stulberg.org. The next day, Stulberg competi-

tion judges will lead master classes, sharing their expertise with local music students. Master classes start at 12:30 p.m., also at WMU’s Dalton Center. All classes are free and open to the public. More than 2,500 young string

musicians between the ages of 11 and 19 have participated in the Stulberg International String Competition, which marked its 40th anniversary in 2015. The Stul-berg has attracted world-renowned musicians to Kalamazoo to serve as judges and instructors in master classes exclusively for the competi-tors. For more information, contact

the Stulberg International String Competition at (269) 343-2776, [email protected], or www.stulberg.org.

stulberg competition 2016 Semifinalist performers & Events

8324 Portage Rd., Portage • 327-1578RIGHT-WAY RENTAL

IT’S GRILLING TIME! SALE & DEMO DAYS! MAY 7 & 28, 10-3

Through Friday, April 9Kalamazoo Gals: A story of women &Gibson’s banner guitars of WWIIKalamazoo Valley Museum373-7990

Through Sunday, May 8Goose Bumps: The Fear of Science exhibitExperience & learn about fearKalamazoo Valley Museum373-7990 Mondays, May 2,9,16,23,30Cruz-ins at Dean’s Ice Cream in Plainwell5-8pm, 685-6641 Thursdays, May 5,12,19,26Cruz-ins at Deano’s 50’s Diner Pizza & Ice Cream in Allegan6pm-dark, 686-9009

Through August 21Fares and Squares: The History ofChecker MotorsKalamazoo Valley Museum373-7990

Sundays, May 1,8,15,22,29Bell’s Eccentric CaféSunday Team TriviaDoors open at 5pmTrivia 6-8pm, 382-2332

Sundays, May 1,8,15,22,29Portage Farmers MarketPortage Senior CenterNoon – 4pm, 337-8899

Mon., May 2 – Fri., May 6Gilmore Keyboard Festival FilmsKalamazoo Valley MuseumNoon, 373-7990

Tuesday, May 3ARTbreak: North by Midwest Micro-Budget Film Festival Micro ScreeningKalamazoo Institute of ArtsNoon, 375-7775

Tuesday, May 3Dessert w/Discussion: Climate Change in MichiganKellogg Biological Station6-8pm, 671-2015

Wednesday’s, May 4,11,18,25Washington Square Lunch Market1350 Portage St., Kalamazoo11am-2pm, 342-5686

Wednesday’s, May 4,11,18,25Cruise-InsGilmore Car Museum 5-8pm, 671-5089

Wednesday’s, May 4,11,18,25100-Mile MarketPeople’s Food Co-op3-7pm, 227,8899

Wednesday, May 4Music: Whisky Before BreakfastO’Duffy’s Pub8-10pm, 344-5666

Thurs., May 5- Sat., May 7Scholastic Book Fair Warehouse SaleKalamazoo County Expo CenterThurs.11-7, Fri. 9-7, Sat.9-3(800) 843-0112

Thursday, May 5Children’s Mental Health Awareness Day CarnivalKalamazoo County Expo Ctr.4-7pm, 553-7122

Thursday, May 5Open Mic Jam NightKoffee Klutch in Galesburg6:30pm, 370-8144

Thursdays, May 5,12,19,26Singer/Songwriter NightBoatyard Brewing Co.Sign up at 6pmPerformances 7-11pm

Friday, May 6Art HopDowntown Kalamazoo& in the Vine Neighborhood5-8pm, 342-5059

Friday, May 6Friday Night Highlight 5-9pmKalamazoo Valley Museum5pmVisual Experience: “Feathership Of The Wing Jewelry Exhibition6pm Live Music: Jared Knox Band373-7990

Friday, May 6Music: The Hershey BandBoatyard Brewing Co.7-10pm, 226-0300

Saturday’s May 7,14,21,28Kalamazoo Farmers’ Market1204 Bank St.7am-2pm, 337-8899

Saturdays, May 7,14,21,28Music: BenJammin’ and AnalisaEducational entertainers & Kids breakfast Old Dog Tavern10 – 11am, 381-5677

Saturday, May 7First SaturdayStories, activities, guests & prizesKalamazoo Public LibraryCentral Branch2-3:30pm, 342-9837

Saturday’s, May 7,14,21,28Music: The Duffield/Carron ProjectSoulful piano and sultry songstressOld Dog Tavern5-8pm, 381-5677

Saturday, May 7Music: Benedict Dolly RockersBoatyard Brewing Co.7-10pm, 226-0300

Sunday, May 8Sunday Series: Invite a Monarch toLunch – Plant a MilkweedKalamazoo Valley Museum1:30pm, 373-7990

Tuesday, May 10ARTbreak: Artist’s Talk withEllen NelsonKalamazoo Institute of ArtsNoon, 349-7775

Wednesday, May 11Music: Carrie McFerrinO’Duffy’s Pub8-10pm, 344-5666

Thurs., May 12 – Sat. May 14Michigan Youth Arts FestivalWMU Campus9am-10:45pm, 545-9200

Thursday, May 12,26Crafty Needles - Knitting NightBoatyard Brewing Co.4-9pm, 226-0300

Thursday, May 12Music: Tom DuffieldO’Duffy’s Pub8-10pm, 344-5666

Friday, May 13Teen Night – check out galleries,Get hands dirty, & have pizza & popKalamazoo Institute of Arts6-8pm, 349-7775

Friday, May 13Music: Final ApproachBoatyard Brewing Co.7-10pm, 226-0300

Saturday, May 14All Ears Theater: The Murders In the Rue MorgueFirst Baptist Church – Kal.6pm, 345-2195

Saturday, May 14Art Detectives: Photo realPainting & Photography, art projectKalamazoo Institute of Arts Library11am – Noon, 585-9291

Saturday, May 14Music: A. Mays & BlueBoatyard Brewing Co.7-10pm, 226-0300 Monday May 16Kal. Valley Genealogical SocietyPortage District Library7pm, (6:15pm skill session)(616) 334-1288

Wednesday, May 18Book Discussion: Lisette’s ListKalamazoo Institute of Arts2-3pm, 349-7775

Wednesday, May 18Music: Out of Favor BoysO’Duffy’s Pub8-10pm, 344-5666

Thursday, May 19Teacher Night – Casual laid back evening celebration for teachers Kalamazoo Institute of Arts6:30-8:30pm, 375-7775

Thursday, May 19Music: Megan DooleyO’Duffy’s Pub8-10pm, 344-5666

Friday, May 20Music: Steve PeschBoatyard Brewing Co.7-10pm, 226-0300 Fri.-Sat. May 20-21Plant Sale, Portage Garden ClubFri. 7am-3pm, Sat. 8am-noon.6851 Hickory Pt. Dr. East, Portage.492-2851

Saturday, May 21#EpicScreening: Come watch the Best!All Day Event, concluding with awardsEpic Center – Kal.10am-7pm, 343-2211

Saturday, May 21Stulberg International StringCompetition SemifinalsDalton Center Recital Hall, WMU9am-4pm, 343-2776

Saturday, May 21Music: Dow Family BandBoatyard Brewing Co.6-9:30pm, 226-0300

Saturday, May 21Family Fishing FairRamona Park10am-1pm, 329-4522

Saturday, May 2163rd Annual Circus Maximus,Antique Toy ShowKalamazoo County Expo CenterFree 1-2pm, (262) 246-7171 May 21Spring Flea- For- AllBookends Design, Décor & MoreIn Parchment9am-4pm , 998-0988

Sunday, May 22Stulberg International String Competition Master ClassesDalton Center, WMU12:30-3pm, 343-2776

Sunday, May 22 – Sept. 11Lego Travel AdventureKalamazoo Valley Museum373-7990 Sunday, May 22Sunday Series: The Match-e-be-Nash-she-wish: Looking Back & ForwardKalamazoo Valley Museum1:30pm, 373-7990

Wednesday, May 25Music: Joe Wang and The Test PilotsO’Duffy’s Pub8-10pm, 344-5666

Thursday, May 26Music: Bog RoadO’Duffy’s Pub8-10pm, 344-5666

Friday, May 27Music: Joe Wang & The Test PilotsBoatyard Brewing Co.7-10pm, 226-0300

Sat – Mon., May 28-30May’d In MichiganThe Olde World VillageCelebrate Michigan artisans, crafters,Growers & musicians10am – 6pm, 580-1290

Saturday, May 28All Ears Theater: Escape From ChristianaFirst Baptist Church – Kal.6pm, 345-2195

Saturday, May 28Music: Benedict Dolly RockersBoatyard Brewing Co.7-10pm, 226-0300

FREE MAY EVENTS

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Good News May 2016