If anyone doubts that President Obama has the ability to inspire, they should meet Thom Myers.
Myers chairs the group Obamazoo, made up of Kalamazoo area citizens who are aligning themselves with President Obama’s Organizing for America. Myers touts the group as a grassroots effort of people who want to continue to stay involved in the political process now that the election is over.
Obamazoo hosted the first of what Myers hopes to be many Town Hall meetings on January 27 at the Kalamazoo Public Library. More than 100 people attended, including Kalamazoo Mayor Bobby Hopewell, Kalamazoo City Commissioner Sean McCann, and State Representatives Bob Jones, Tonya Shuitmaker and Larry DeShazor. DeShazor is a Republican.
Myers says the group is not about advancing Democrat or Republican causes. Says Myers, "we're committed to engaging our neighbors in bringing about change in our local communities throughout Kalamazoo County and Southwest Michigan." This "Organizing for America" campaign is part of a larger, national network.
At the town hall meeting, attendees told stories about how they were inspired by not just the new president, but by the American people who got out and became involved in the process this last election year.
You can learn more about Obamazoo at my.barackobama.com/page/group/ObamaZoo-KalamazooforChange
Or e-mail kalamazooforchange@gmail.com. The group also has a Facebook page.
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
Monday, January 26, 2009
Valentine's Day: Go Big or Go Home
While I usually observe Valentine’s Day as a marketing ploy—I soften up every few years in hopes that I’ll have an amazing day on February 14. I admit I’m a little disgruntled, mostly because my personal history with this holiday suggests that I am cursed. The kindest Valentines I receive often say something like, “someday you’ll meet your prince. Love, mom.”
It all started when I was 15 years old. I made a plate of heart-shaped cookies for my high school crush. We held hands after track practice. Maybe it was the braces or the extreme shyness of a soft-spoken farm girl. Either way, he lost interest and I lost hope.
The following summer I grew a few inches and kicked the braces to the curb. The interest of my crush returned, but Valentine’s Day didn’t. He informed me he “didn’t believe in Valentine’s Day.” Apparently Valentine’s Day was a holiday celebrated by young women with romantic ideals and the weak men they managed to convert to their sissy ways. I disagreed and we broke up the following Valentine’s Day.
I went on to date two more men who prescribed to the evils of Valentine’s Day. As my college roommates got dressed up for nice dinners and were greeted at the door with roses, I had take-in Chinese and a date with my textbook. And although my grades were excellent, I never did get that heart-shaped box of chocolates. Instead, three different men have given me my heart back on, or right before, Valentine’s Day. Thus my dilemma—the Valentine’s Day Curse.
This year, I intend to break the curse. On Valentine’s Day, I plan to “go big” and stomp all over a decade of romantic misfortune. I have calculated that it will take several hours and last 13.1 miles—it’s the Austin Half Marathon. I think there’s no better way to revenge Cupid than in the Lone Star State. I’ll be anything but alone, seeing the sights, enjoying the company of good friends and indulging in one of my true loves, running. Instead of chasing boys with cookies, I’ll be chasing pavement—and that gives me butterflies. And where there are butterflies there is still hope…for next year.
Happy Valentine’s Day.
It all started when I was 15 years old. I made a plate of heart-shaped cookies for my high school crush. We held hands after track practice. Maybe it was the braces or the extreme shyness of a soft-spoken farm girl. Either way, he lost interest and I lost hope.
The following summer I grew a few inches and kicked the braces to the curb. The interest of my crush returned, but Valentine’s Day didn’t. He informed me he “didn’t believe in Valentine’s Day.” Apparently Valentine’s Day was a holiday celebrated by young women with romantic ideals and the weak men they managed to convert to their sissy ways. I disagreed and we broke up the following Valentine’s Day.
I went on to date two more men who prescribed to the evils of Valentine’s Day. As my college roommates got dressed up for nice dinners and were greeted at the door with roses, I had take-in Chinese and a date with my textbook. And although my grades were excellent, I never did get that heart-shaped box of chocolates. Instead, three different men have given me my heart back on, or right before, Valentine’s Day. Thus my dilemma—the Valentine’s Day Curse.
This year, I intend to break the curse. On Valentine’s Day, I plan to “go big” and stomp all over a decade of romantic misfortune. I have calculated that it will take several hours and last 13.1 miles—it’s the Austin Half Marathon. I think there’s no better way to revenge Cupid than in the Lone Star State. I’ll be anything but alone, seeing the sights, enjoying the company of good friends and indulging in one of my true loves, running. Instead of chasing boys with cookies, I’ll be chasing pavement—and that gives me butterflies. And where there are butterflies there is still hope…for next year.
Happy Valentine’s Day.
Friday, January 23, 2009
Featured Leader: Brandt Iden
“Kalamazoo has a ton going for it,” says Brandt Iden, co-owner of Baron Properties. "It's centrally located, a great family community, and it has one of the lowest unemployment rates in the state." In addition to his property management business, Iden serves on the board of Big Brothers/Big Sisters and Junior Achievement, and is the Political Action Committee Chair for the Kalamazoo Regional Chamber of Commerce.
Also, Brandt Iden is 25 years old.
One of Iden’s personal goals to is to see Kalamazoo prosper through its youth. He often talks to many of the Western and K College students who live in some of the properties he manages about staying in Kalamazoo. Iden points out that while many of the students may not know it, there are jobs here. “True, there are some companies cutting back on employees, but they’re not closing their doors. Not every community can say that.”
Iden has been on boards, sat through meetings and partnered with many of Southwest Michigan’s leaders. He notes that many of them would like to see more young people take on leadership roles.
Iden got an early start in roles that exposed him to community and political involvement, starting as a K-College student interning for the U.S. House Judiciary Committee. Now, in addition to his service on community boards, Brandt is not afraid to let local leaders know what he thinks. He never misses a Legislative Roll Call meeting at the Chamber of Commerce. “My challenge to Michigan legislators is to sit down with business owners and really listen. Not all elected officials are business people, and business drives this economy. I think local business owners could come up with some great ideas if legislators would just listen to them.”
Iden's political experience and fresh perspective on Kalamazoo serves to inspire community members of all ages. He continues to share his vision for Kalamazoo in hopes of addressing core issues and enlisting the help and support of other young people.
Also, Brandt Iden is 25 years old.
One of Iden’s personal goals to is to see Kalamazoo prosper through its youth. He often talks to many of the Western and K College students who live in some of the properties he manages about staying in Kalamazoo. Iden points out that while many of the students may not know it, there are jobs here. “True, there are some companies cutting back on employees, but they’re not closing their doors. Not every community can say that.”
Iden has been on boards, sat through meetings and partnered with many of Southwest Michigan’s leaders. He notes that many of them would like to see more young people take on leadership roles.
Iden got an early start in roles that exposed him to community and political involvement, starting as a K-College student interning for the U.S. House Judiciary Committee. Now, in addition to his service on community boards, Brandt is not afraid to let local leaders know what he thinks. He never misses a Legislative Roll Call meeting at the Chamber of Commerce. “My challenge to Michigan legislators is to sit down with business owners and really listen. Not all elected officials are business people, and business drives this economy. I think local business owners could come up with some great ideas if legislators would just listen to them.”
Iden's political experience and fresh perspective on Kalamazoo serves to inspire community members of all ages. He continues to share his vision for Kalamazoo in hopes of addressing core issues and enlisting the help and support of other young people.
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
Planning a Valentine’s Day Adventure? A Romantic Evening? A Charming Getaway? Consider all that Kalamazoo has to offer on February 14th!
Valentine’s Day Prix Fixe Dinner at Food Dance Café
Four course dinner with decadent options for any palate. Cost is $49 per person, plus tax and gratuity. Reservations are available from 5 p.m. until 9 p.m. Food Dance Cafe is located at 401 East Michigan Avenue in downtown Kalamazoo. For more information or to make reservations, call 269.382.1888.
Radisson Staycation: Valentine’s Retreat
Book a romantic retreat in the heart of Kalamazoo. Overnight accommodations in a Jacuzzi or Manhattan Suite are complemented with valet parking, a $50 gift card to any Radisson restaurant, a heart-warming breakfast buffet at Sol World Café and 20% off a couple’s massage at Idun Spa Salon. Cost is $199 per couple. To learn more or to make reservations, call 269.343.3333 or visit www.radissonkz.com.
Henderson Castle: Valentine Dinners
Named the premier romantic Inn of Southwest Michigan, Henderson Castle knows how to set the mood. Share an elegant meal in one of Kalamazoo’s most unique settings! The evening starts with a tour of the castle, followed by a plated dinner beneath sparkling chandeliers and live entertainment. Cost is $110 per couple. Consider an overnight stay to complete the experience! Reservations can be made on Friday, February 13, 6:30 – 9:30 p.m. or Saturday, February 14, 6:30 – 9:30 p.m. Henderson Castle is located at 100 Monroe Street in Kalamazoo. To make dinner or room reservations, call 269.343.9242.
Tug on your “Heart Strings”
The Kalamazoo Symphony Orchestra and guest vocalist Kathy Wagner perform music of love - from Tchaikovsky's Romeo and Juliet to Unchained Melody (from "Ghost") to The Way We Were. Program begins at 8 p.m. at Chenery Auditorium. Cost ranges $10 - $40. Visit the Kalamazoo Symphony Orchestra online for more information.
Go on a “Picnic”
University Theatre presents “Picnic,” William Inge’s Pulitzer-prize winning examination of yearning, regret and risk. The performance begins at 8 p.m. at WMU’s Shaw Theatre. For ticket information, call 269.387.6222.
Pink Ice Game
Looking for a lovely twist on an ice-cold sport? Start the evening with a four course meal at The Ice House by Old Burdicks at Wings Stadium. Cost is $50 per couple and includes an appetizer, salad, entrée, dessert, a non-alcoholic drink and a beautiful rose. Call 269.345.1125 to make reservations from 5 – 7 p.m. on February 14. After dinner, don’t miss the Pink Ice Game at Wings Stadium as the Kalamazoo Wings take on the Port Huron Icehawks at 7:30 p.m. For pricing information and to order tickets, call 269.345.5101.
Valentine’s Night of Sweetness
Tempo Vino Winery in Downtown Kalamazoo is offering a great way to the end the evening on a sweet note. Their wine and dessert pairing features 6 of their sweet wines paired with decadent deserts. Three seating times are available on Saturday, February 14: 5 – 6 p.m., 6:30 – 7:30 p.m. and 8 – 9 p.m. Tempo Vino Winery is located at 260 E. Michigan Ave. For additional details visit Tempo Vino online. To make reservations, call 269.342.9463.
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
You, the athlete
By Chris Crowell
Seduced.
It is so easy to be seduced by entertainment and information that flood into our lives. The ease of access to entertainment and information though readily available low cost technology and its marketing capitalization lure us to become addicts. As our time within a day/week/month is spent not just in front of a TV, but reading blogs, on Facebook, sending emails, watching YouTube, listening to pundits or being spectators to events, we are stimulated into an inactive paralysis. The stimulation is exciting and can create deep emotional and mental responses. However, it demands little or no participation of our body.
We must use the body as a means to free our minds and engage our spirits. We are a spirit experiencing this earth in a physical being and must utilize physical movement and challenges as stimulus for aliveness. That does not mean that the most physically strong or fit are the most successful, or that a rich life exists only through the physical, it is meant as an awareness of the value of physical in each of us. As Bill Bowerman, co-founder of Nike and coach of University of Oregon, is quoted “If you have a body, you are an athlete.”. We are all athletes and all need physicality to enhance the magic and glory of life.
Monday, January 19, 2009
Opportunity to Learn
“At this time, the table is open for discussion,” says Peter Dams, moderator at the January 19 Legislative Roll Call at the Kalamazoo Regional Chamber of Commerce. This is the time when members of the Chamber of Commerce can talk directly to local leaders about the pressing issues they want heard. It’s also a great way to find out exactly what our local leaders are making their priorities.
Who are these local leaders? While it varies slightly from meeting to meeting, this particular meeting finds State Senator Tom George, State Representatives Larry DeShazor and Tonya Schuitmaker, Portage Mayor Peter Strazdas, Kalamazoo City Commssioner David Anderson, and Chamber President Steward Sandstrom in attendance.
The Public Policy Committee of the Chamber selects issues to begin the discussions and the legislators attending give their status report on those particular issues. After that, the discussion opens for questions, comments, or any federal, state, and local issues of interest.
There may be no better way to get your voice heard directly by legislators than at the Legislative Roll Call, held monthly at the Chamber of Commerce. The next Legislative Roll Call will be held on February 16 at 8 a.m.
Roll Call is one of those under-rated benefits of membership in the Chamber of Commerce. For more information about Chamber membership, visit the Chamber Web site.
Who are these local leaders? While it varies slightly from meeting to meeting, this particular meeting finds State Senator Tom George, State Representatives Larry DeShazor and Tonya Schuitmaker, Portage Mayor Peter Strazdas, Kalamazoo City Commssioner David Anderson, and Chamber President Steward Sandstrom in attendance.
The Public Policy Committee of the Chamber selects issues to begin the discussions and the legislators attending give their status report on those particular issues. After that, the discussion opens for questions, comments, or any federal, state, and local issues of interest.
There may be no better way to get your voice heard directly by legislators than at the Legislative Roll Call, held monthly at the Chamber of Commerce. The next Legislative Roll Call will be held on February 16 at 8 a.m.
Roll Call is one of those under-rated benefits of membership in the Chamber of Commerce. For more information about Chamber membership, visit the Chamber Web site.
Monday, January 12, 2009
The Year of the Michigan citizen
ShareKalamazoo is pleased to announce, and be a part of, a new wave of community conversations across Southwestern Michigan, starting with Kalamazoo County.
Lam & Associates and ShareKalamazoo are partnering with the Center for Michigan, a respected state-wide "think and do tank." Local leaders Dr. Marilyn Schlack and Jim Hilboldt sit on the Center's board of directors.
The group is spreading its citizen engagement work throughout Michigan with a goal of gaining input from 10,000 citizens by the end of this year. Individuals who take part in the two-hour community conversations are providing both qualitative and quantitative information to help turn Michigan around.
This "Michigan's Defining Moment" public engagement campaign is a multi-year effort to heighten public awareness of the significant challenges and opportunities Michigan faces and tighten the focus of statewide leaders on a common ground agenda best suited to help Michigan achieve a new era of sustainable prosperity.
Watch the "Finding Common Ground" video to hear from others who have participated in our Community Conversations so far.
Want to join one of the community conversations in Kalamazoo County? Call the Special Events line (269) 345-1913. They'll also be taking place in other counties in Southwestern Michigan. The toll-free number outside the 269 area code is 1-877-255-2447.
To learn more about the Center for Michigan, visit their Web site, and sign up for their weekly newsletter. Also, bookmark ShareKalamazoo.com for reports from throughout Southwestern Michigan.
Lam & Associates and ShareKalamazoo are partnering with the Center for Michigan, a respected state-wide "think and do tank." Local leaders Dr. Marilyn Schlack and Jim Hilboldt sit on the Center's board of directors.
The group is spreading its citizen engagement work throughout Michigan with a goal of gaining input from 10,000 citizens by the end of this year. Individuals who take part in the two-hour community conversations are providing both qualitative and quantitative information to help turn Michigan around.
This "Michigan's Defining Moment" public engagement campaign is a multi-year effort to heighten public awareness of the significant challenges and opportunities Michigan faces and tighten the focus of statewide leaders on a common ground agenda best suited to help Michigan achieve a new era of sustainable prosperity.
Watch the "Finding Common Ground" video to hear from others who have participated in our Community Conversations so far.
Want to join one of the community conversations in Kalamazoo County? Call the Special Events line (269) 345-1913. They'll also be taking place in other counties in Southwestern Michigan. The toll-free number outside the 269 area code is 1-877-255-2447.
To learn more about the Center for Michigan, visit their Web site, and sign up for their weekly newsletter. Also, bookmark ShareKalamazoo.com for reports from throughout Southwestern Michigan.
Friday, January 2, 2009
How to give away your old office equipment
Want to donate old office equipment, supplies or even an computer to a nonprofit organization, but don’t want to go searching for who might want your hand-me-downs?
ShareKalamazoo.com has done the research for you.
And, thanks to the Greater Kalamazoo United Way, Goodwill Industries and Habitat for Humanity, the process should be fairly painless for you.
The United Way, at (269) 343-2524 serves as a clearinghouse for more than 40 nonprofits who may be able to use that old file cabinet or desk. Among those nonprofits are the Red Cross, Boys & Girls Clubs, Salvation Army, Girl Scouts, Senior Services and the YMCA.
The Habitat for Humanity Restore, at (269) 381-5523 is also happy to put your old office furniture to good use. With free weekly pickups, an unwanted desk or chair can be hauled off for a good cause with just a phone call.
If you’ve tried to get rid of an old computer, you know the process is even more trying. But, Goodwill Industries, thanks to its partnership with Dell, will accept your used electronics, working or not. Electronics which work are sold, and the proceeds support other community work through Goodwill. Nonworking electronics/computers are stripped for parts , with unwanted parts properly recycled. Goodwill’s number is (269) 382-0490.
There’s another good reason to recycle electronics. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, 45 million computers become obsolete annually, with between 80 to 8 percent of them ending up in landfills. This is a large contributor to the fastest growing portion of U.S. waste, now known as e-waste. This e-waste contains materials such as lead, mercury and chromium, all of which are harmful to the environment.
If you have other suggestions for ways to dispose of used office furniture and electronics that are safe, effective, and benefit the community, please let us know here.
Start the New Year off right!
One of the great traditions in the greater Kalamazoo area is the John Daley One-Run Run, hosted and organized by Gazelle Sports, benefitting the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Kalamazoo. It's a day to dress up and have fun while modeling good health and our compassionate support of young people. Here, Gazelle's Chris Crowell (left) and Bob Ezelle -- Chief Professional Officer for the Boys & Girls Clubs -- meet to greet the 1,000 or so New Year's Day celebrants at Spring Valley Park.
Next up for Chris is Borgess Run Camp (you can sign up at http://www.borgessrun.com), which begins at the end of January and continues through the Borgess Run for the Health of It! The 13-week camp includes coaches from K-Valley Orthopedics, the Borgess Health & Fitness Center and Gazelle Sports, along with team leaders who help new and experienced runners achieve their goals.
A no-obligation "orientation" for Run Camp is scheduled for Wednesday, January 14, at 6 p.m. at the Lawrence Education Center on the campus of Borgess Medical Center. For more information, call the Special Events Line, (269) 345-1913.
Ezelle, in addition to being one of the most respected youth organizers in the region, models good health behavior on a daily basis, lifting and getting in his aerobic exercise.
Thanks Chris and Bob!
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