With the winter fast approaching, and energy costs still on the rise, Kalamazoo area residents are looking for ways to stay warm this winter without breaking the bank. Finding ways to scale back your heating not only saves money, but it is better for the environment as using less heat is less of a draw on our energy resources.
So, this winter, how exactly do you use less heat, but stay just as warm? Here are a few tips:
Don’t Use Unnecessary Heat
Don’t unnecessarily heat rooms that you don’t use often, such as guest rooms. If possible, turn back thermostats in those rooms, or keep the door closed to prevent heat drifting in.
Additionally, if you tend to be gone for long stretches during the day, scale your thermostat back a little before you leave. Then return it to normal as soon as you get home. Be sure not to turn your thermostat higher than your desired temperature in an effort to heat the house faster when you return. This doesn’t heat your home any faster, but makes your furnace work harder, and possibly use more energy than needed.
Wash Clothes in Cold Water When Possible
Not all clothes need to be washed in warm or hot water, but it’s easy to leave the dial set as such. Check clothing tags for clothes that can be machine washed cold, and change your dial accordingly.
Keep Your Chimney Flue Closed When Not In Use
An open flue is like leaving a window open. The hot air escapes right out the chimney. Be sure to keep this closed when you are not using your fireplace.
Take Advantage of the Sun’s Natural Warmth
Open the shades and blinds of south facing windows on sunny days. Additionally, close them at night to reduce the chill from cold or frosty windows.
Check Your House for Energy Leaks
Look and feel around doors and windows for drafts, leaks or holes. Use weather stripping, caulk, or door sweeps to prevent heat loss this winter.
Cut Your Shower Time
Hot water can be a major influence on your energy expenditures, especially in big families. Ask everyone in your family to cut back on their hot shower time by a few minutes. Shorter hot showers can save up to 33% of your hot water heating costs.
Tuesday, October 14, 2008
Thursday, October 2, 2008
At-Home at Homecoming?
Two years ago I sat along a curb in East Lansing, waving to Kermit the Frog as he rolled by in a white convertible. Moments later, massive draft horses with green manes and hooves pounded the pavement as they trotted down Grand River Avenue. Another Homecoming parade was passing before me as quickly as the year had passed since I graduated.
Each fall I drive into Michigan State’s campus and read the imaginary banner above Spartan Stadium that screams, “Welcome to the Happiest Place in Michigan!” Sure, I admit I’m biased toward my alma mater—but every time I step foot on campus toting a grill and wearing a signature hooded sweatshirt, I feel like I’ve been welcomed to the largest extended-family reunion known to man. It’s a celebration I have most appropriately termed “Tailgation Nation.”
Tailgation Nation is more than a parade, high-fives, the smell of hot dogs and the blast of a sportscaster on an AM radio. Exceeding the celebration of a football game, Tailgation Nation is the celebration of community and the sense of family developed during one of life’s greatest periods of transition. My college years taught me astronomy, biology and ethics and communication theories. But the greater education was about myself—about love and friendship, heartache and triumph. I left East Lansing with more than a degree—and each time I return I can’t help but celebrate the place that nurtured me and fostered my growth from a shy farm girl to a confidant woman.
Although I didn’t go to Kalamazoo’s Western Michigan University, I’m guessing it has a group of graduates and enthusiastic fans similar to what I experienced at MSU. In the midst of another exciting season of college football, I am convinced that Tailgation Nation is a universal phenomenon. And if it’s not—it should be. Our community can learn from the universities: perhaps a stable and lifelong sense of community results from providing a supportive environment that evolves and transforms the individual.
No matter where I wind up in life, I have the comfort of knowing my alma mater will always welcome me home. I’m confident that Kalamazoo can do the same.
Each fall I drive into Michigan State’s campus and read the imaginary banner above Spartan Stadium that screams, “Welcome to the Happiest Place in Michigan!” Sure, I admit I’m biased toward my alma mater—but every time I step foot on campus toting a grill and wearing a signature hooded sweatshirt, I feel like I’ve been welcomed to the largest extended-family reunion known to man. It’s a celebration I have most appropriately termed “Tailgation Nation.”
Tailgation Nation is more than a parade, high-fives, the smell of hot dogs and the blast of a sportscaster on an AM radio. Exceeding the celebration of a football game, Tailgation Nation is the celebration of community and the sense of family developed during one of life’s greatest periods of transition. My college years taught me astronomy, biology and ethics and communication theories. But the greater education was about myself—about love and friendship, heartache and triumph. I left East Lansing with more than a degree—and each time I return I can’t help but celebrate the place that nurtured me and fostered my growth from a shy farm girl to a confidant woman.
Although I didn’t go to Kalamazoo’s Western Michigan University, I’m guessing it has a group of graduates and enthusiastic fans similar to what I experienced at MSU. In the midst of another exciting season of college football, I am convinced that Tailgation Nation is a universal phenomenon. And if it’s not—it should be. Our community can learn from the universities: perhaps a stable and lifelong sense of community results from providing a supportive environment that evolves and transforms the individual.
No matter where I wind up in life, I have the comfort of knowing my alma mater will always welcome me home. I’m confident that Kalamazoo can do the same.
Friday, September 26, 2008
tax credit copy
Did you know that the federal government has made home ownership more enticing for first-time buyers?
For the remainder of this year and the first half of 2009, the government will give a tax credit of up to $7,500 to eligible couples. The tax credit is worth 10% of the purchase price of the home. The tax credit amounts to an interest-free 15-year loan for first-time homebuyers.
In the words of Kieren Quinn, Chairman of the Mortgage Bankers Association: “This is the most important piece of housing-related legislation that we have seen in more than a generation.” The new legislation has helped put many young couples in Allen Edwin Homes.
Because the tax credit is for people who purchase their primary residence, individuals may qualify for the tax credit even if they own a vacation home or rental property as long as those properties were not their primary residence for at least three years preceding the purchase of their new home.
The credit is phased out for individuals with modified adjusted gross income between $75,000 and $95,000. For married couples filing a joint return, the phase out range is $150,000 to $170,000.
The credit is fully refundable, meaning taxpayers will be able to obtain an additional federal tax refund of up to $7,500 even if they have no other tax liabilities. Taxpayers will be able to claim the credit on their 2008 tax return for homes purchased in 2008. For homes purchased in 2009, the IRS will allow the purchasers to file an amended 2008 return to claim the credit.
Then the credit will be repaid as an additional tax on tax returns for the next 15 years. For the maximum $7,500 credit, this works out to annual repayments of $500 per year.
For the remainder of this year and the first half of 2009, the government will give a tax credit of up to $7,500 to eligible couples. The tax credit is worth 10% of the purchase price of the home. The tax credit amounts to an interest-free 15-year loan for first-time homebuyers.
In the words of Kieren Quinn, Chairman of the Mortgage Bankers Association: “This is the most important piece of housing-related legislation that we have seen in more than a generation.” The new legislation has helped put many young couples in Allen Edwin Homes.
Because the tax credit is for people who purchase their primary residence, individuals may qualify for the tax credit even if they own a vacation home or rental property as long as those properties were not their primary residence for at least three years preceding the purchase of their new home.
The credit is phased out for individuals with modified adjusted gross income between $75,000 and $95,000. For married couples filing a joint return, the phase out range is $150,000 to $170,000.
The credit is fully refundable, meaning taxpayers will be able to obtain an additional federal tax refund of up to $7,500 even if they have no other tax liabilities. Taxpayers will be able to claim the credit on their 2008 tax return for homes purchased in 2008. For homes purchased in 2009, the IRS will allow the purchasers to file an amended 2008 return to claim the credit.
Then the credit will be repaid as an additional tax on tax returns for the next 15 years. For the maximum $7,500 credit, this works out to annual repayments of $500 per year.
Meet The Young Professionals
Working in education and fund development, Brooke Nobis Buys wasn't bumping into that many young professionals in her daily work. So, like a number of other people not too long out of college, she checked out Kalamazoo Area Young Professionals.
Attending art exhibits, programs and social events, Buys has bought into the "live, learn and grow together" motto of the informal group, organized through the Kalamazoo Regional Chamber of Commerce.
"I work with a lot of people whose networks are established and careers are fixed. It's good to interact with young people who are facing the same issues you are," says Buys.
Among the people she's met is Callie Gaines, a young professional herself who provides some Chamber of Commerce staff support for the volunteer board which sets the direction of the group.
Gaines says the group has a lot of fun, and their monthly events have included presentations from CEOs and college professors, wine tastings, tailgating at WMU football games, and attending new art exhibits. Sometimes, she says, members just get together at a restaurant for lunch, or for an after-work drink. While there are a lot of things to do, in the end it’s really just about getting people together. “We try to emphasize the networking aspect of it,” Gaines said.
“Definitely bring your business cards.”
Despite ‘young’ being in the group’s name, there are no age restrictions when it comes to joining. The majority of the group tends to be in their twenties, thirties, and young forties, and often in the early stages of their careers or looking to start them. Thus the desire for networking. Anyone, however, that is just looking to get out in the community and meet an energetic group of local people is welcome. “We do require that people be at least 21 because there is alcohol served at some events,” Gaines says.
Getting involved is easy, painless, and free. Interested people may sign up for the e-newsletter by contacting Gaines at the Chamber.
There are no dues or initiation fees, although members are expected to cover their own food, drink, and admission at events. The group meets about once or twice a month and the event planners love to get input from the group as to what type of events people are interested in.
More information is available at The Chamber's Web site.
Attending art exhibits, programs and social events, Buys has bought into the "live, learn and grow together" motto of the informal group, organized through the Kalamazoo Regional Chamber of Commerce.
"I work with a lot of people whose networks are established and careers are fixed. It's good to interact with young people who are facing the same issues you are," says Buys.
Among the people she's met is Callie Gaines, a young professional herself who provides some Chamber of Commerce staff support for the volunteer board which sets the direction of the group.
Gaines says the group has a lot of fun, and their monthly events have included presentations from CEOs and college professors, wine tastings, tailgating at WMU football games, and attending new art exhibits. Sometimes, she says, members just get together at a restaurant for lunch, or for an after-work drink. While there are a lot of things to do, in the end it’s really just about getting people together. “We try to emphasize the networking aspect of it,” Gaines said.
“Definitely bring your business cards.”
Despite ‘young’ being in the group’s name, there are no age restrictions when it comes to joining. The majority of the group tends to be in their twenties, thirties, and young forties, and often in the early stages of their careers or looking to start them. Thus the desire for networking. Anyone, however, that is just looking to get out in the community and meet an energetic group of local people is welcome. “We do require that people be at least 21 because there is alcohol served at some events,” Gaines says.
Getting involved is easy, painless, and free. Interested people may sign up for the e-newsletter by contacting Gaines at the Chamber.
There are no dues or initiation fees, although members are expected to cover their own food, drink, and admission at events. The group meets about once or twice a month and the event planners love to get input from the group as to what type of events people are interested in.
More information is available at The Chamber's Web site.
Thursday, September 18, 2008
Fit and Fun
The Kalamazoo Institute of Arts presents the season premiere of its Sunday Funday series, a free program designed for families and children. “Active Art” will take place Sunday, September 28, from 2-4 p.m. at the KIA.
Families will enjoy creating their own work of art, taking part in a scavenger hunt, and getting physically fit.
YMCA Instructor Laura Sprague will offer a fun program of Pilates and aerobics for children in the KIA auditorium at 2:30 and 3:15 p.m.
Sunday Funday at the KIA is sponsored by Target and the Michigan Council for Arts and Cultural Affairs. It is free of charge and open to the public.
Families will enjoy creating their own work of art, taking part in a scavenger hunt, and getting physically fit.
YMCA Instructor Laura Sprague will offer a fun program of Pilates and aerobics for children in the KIA auditorium at 2:30 and 3:15 p.m.
Sunday Funday at the KIA is sponsored by Target and the Michigan Council for Arts and Cultural Affairs. It is free of charge and open to the public.
Concerto anyone?
Rachmaninoff, Dvořák, Mendelssohn, and more! Join us to explore the world of the concerto with four special guest presenters: Pianist Rich Ridenour, KSO Assistant Conductor Barry Ross, KSO Principal Cellist David Peshlakai and PPS Music Teacher Marcia Working. From the basics (what is a concerto, anyway?) to the insider perspective on playing and conducting concertos, each session will provide unique insights on this fascinating musical genre. The final session will even give you an opportunity to experience the concerto form first-hand, through a fun, guided, Orff-style workshop. No musical experience is required! Works explored in the class will be performed by the Kalamazoo Symphony Orchestra throughout the 2008-9 season.
Schedule:
4 Tuesdays, 9/30-10/21
7:00-8:30 PM
Cost: $58
Two KSO ticket vouchers are included.
To Register: Contact Portage Community Education at 323-6700 or www.PPSCommEd.org
Schedule:
4 Tuesdays, 9/30-10/21
7:00-8:30 PM
Cost: $58
Two KSO ticket vouchers are included.
To Register: Contact Portage Community Education at 323-6700 or www.PPSCommEd.org
How Do I Join?
Looking to get involved in Kalamazoo’s recreational sports leagues? Here is all the information you’ll need:
Youth Hockey: Winter
Kalamazoo Optimist Hockey Association
(269) 349-7825
www.koha.com
Adult Hockey: Winter
Wings Stadium
(269) 349-7825
www.wingsstadium.com
Youth and Adult Indoor Soccer: Fall/Winter/Spring
Soccer Zone
(269) 329-0171
www.soccer-zone.com
Youth Soccer: Spring/Summer/Fall
American Youth Soccer Organization
Sue Copeland – Registration – (269) 344-9563
www.ayso211.com
AYSO is always looking for referees for their youth soccer games. Keep active while helping our area youth stay active. Volunteers must be 11 or older. No experience is required. Training and uniforms are provided. Eat free at the concession stand. It’s o.k. to coach your own child’s game.
Contact Bill @ (269) 744-5556
Adult Soccer: Spring/Fall/Winter
Kalamazoo Men’s Open Soccer League
www.kmosl.com
info@kmosl.com
Little League: Spring/Summer/Fall
Bud Vanderberg – Administrator for Southwest Michigan
(269) 345-3123
Adult Softball: Spring/Summer/Fall
Kalamazoo City Parks and Recreation
(269) 337-8191
www.kalamazoocity.org - Click Departments, then Parks and Recreation, then Adult Sports Leagues
Enrollment for Spring starts in December
Portage Parks and Recreation
www.portagemi.gov
Barry Bacon – (269) 329-4522
Enrollment for Spring starts in December
Bicycling: Spring/Summer/Fall
Mike Boersman – President – (269) 720-1409
www.kalamazoobicycleclub.org
Next meeting is: Tuesday, October 14th, 7:00, 1001 W. Maple St.
Youth Hockey: Winter
Kalamazoo Optimist Hockey Association
(269) 349-7825
www.koha.com
Adult Hockey: Winter
Wings Stadium
(269) 349-7825
www.wingsstadium.com
Youth and Adult Indoor Soccer: Fall/Winter/Spring
Soccer Zone
(269) 329-0171
www.soccer-zone.com
Youth Soccer: Spring/Summer/Fall
American Youth Soccer Organization
Sue Copeland – Registration – (269) 344-9563
www.ayso211.com
AYSO is always looking for referees for their youth soccer games. Keep active while helping our area youth stay active. Volunteers must be 11 or older. No experience is required. Training and uniforms are provided. Eat free at the concession stand. It’s o.k. to coach your own child’s game.
Contact Bill @ (269) 744-5556
Adult Soccer: Spring/Fall/Winter
Kalamazoo Men’s Open Soccer League
www.kmosl.com
info@kmosl.com
Little League: Spring/Summer/Fall
Bud Vanderberg – Administrator for Southwest Michigan
(269) 345-3123
Adult Softball: Spring/Summer/Fall
Kalamazoo City Parks and Recreation
(269) 337-8191
www.kalamazoocity.org - Click Departments, then Parks and Recreation, then Adult Sports Leagues
Enrollment for Spring starts in December
Portage Parks and Recreation
www.portagemi.gov
Barry Bacon – (269) 329-4522
Enrollment for Spring starts in December
Bicycling: Spring/Summer/Fall
Mike Boersman – President – (269) 720-1409
www.kalamazoobicycleclub.org
Next meeting is: Tuesday, October 14th, 7:00, 1001 W. Maple St.
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