Back row: Mischelle Korelich, Julie Johnson, Maryann Evans, Lynn Hettinger. Front row: Kemi Laing, Morgan Kline, Sarah Fiengo. Missing from picture: Jacki Stevens.
As of the new year, Hairitage Salon, 121 North Davis Street in Vicksburg, will continue under new ownership. Kemi Laing, the shop’s owner since 2012, is selling the business to a familiar face: Sarah Fiengo, a current Hairitage nail technician.
Laing, a lifelong area resident, has stood “behind the chair” for nearly forty years. Laing has loved it. “It’s so much more than hair. Many of my clients have been with me for most of these years. We have grown to be close friends, and I look forward to seeing them.”
Laing began her career in cosmetology in 1984 at the Crossroads Mall. After a year, she worked in Milwood for a short time before coming home to Vicksburg. A stylist was retiring at the Beauty Fountain, a salon on Main Street owned by Gay Willis and Kay Jensen. Willis called Laing and offered her the opportunity to take over the clientele. “It was a great start to building my own business.”
After eight years, Jensen retired and Laing became co-owner with Willis for another eight years. “It was a special group there,” Laing says. “We had so much fun!” Laing eventually worked at two other locations in the village.
Hairitage Salon was established in 2012. Laing’s parents, Tom and Janet Cousins, and her brother Tom, along with other friends in the skilled trades, worked together to get the shop open quickly. Throughout the years, Laing’s husband Jim was a huge support, painting the salon and helping to maintain it. The staff has felt his generosity with his deliveries of coffee and treats.
Laing says, “It’s the girls that make people want to come back here to Hairitage.” She stresses the great work the staff does and the special treatment of clients. “There is no drama. God blessed me with a great team who have created a warm and friendly atmosphere.”
Fiengo and Laing know each other well and have worked together for many years. Fiengo has been a nail tech for sixteen years. “We have eleven-year-old twins who keep us busy, but it’s time for this new journey,” says Fiengo. She also stresses the positive work environment. “I am blessed beyond measure to have such a wonderful work family.”
Fiengo says the operation and staff will remain the same. Her goals include growing the business and working to expand the space. “I hope we can make space for another nail technician, and possibly for an additional stylist,” Fiengo says.
The salon will soon welcome Lynn Hettinger’s daughter, Morgan Kline, to the group. Fiengo recognizes the importance of this new addition. “It’s a fast-paced industry where styles, techniques, and products change rapidly. It’s important for us to stay current. Morgan will teach us new tricks while we show her the secrets of the trade.” Kline will be available for weddings and formal events.
Laing will continue to cut and style two days a week, but she and her husband Jim look forward to a little more freedom and the flexibility to travel and visit their children and grandchildren.
A view of the east side of the Vicksburg United Methodist Church.
By Kathy DeMott
Pastor Greg Culver from Vicksburg United Methodist Church and Brian Penny, senior outreach coordinator at South County Community Services, have a vision to decrease loneliness among local seniors.
They’re looking for partners to share the vision.
After reading about the negative impact on health because of loneliness and seeing it in our community, Greg was further inspired by watching “Live to 100: Secrets of the Blue Zones” a documentary series, on Netflix.
According to Wikipedia, “Blue zones are regions in the world where people are claimed to live, or to have recently lived, longer than average. The notion is not based on scientific evidence but demographic anecdotes.”
These communities tend to eat more healthily while remaining physically active. They promote having a purpose in life at all stages. They remain socially active with family, friends, faith communities, and doing things for the common good. They practice good habits that contribute to positivity. Such older adults enjoy more socialization as an integral part of their daily routine.
A report posted on the Center for Disease Control (CDC) website from the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine (NASEM) points out that more than one-third of adults aged 45 and older feel lonely, and nearly one-fourth of adults aged 65 and older are considered to be socially isolated.
Older adults are at increased risk for loneliness and social isolation because they are more likely to face living alone, the loss of family or friends, chronic illness, and hearing loss.
“VUMC has a generously sized facility that is being underutilized,” Greg said. “Wouldn’t it be great for the community to provide a place for older adults to socialize and enhance relationships? Loneliness is a health crisis. The latter stages of life should be more abundant than what they seemingly are. We are located right in the heart of Vicksburg with a gym, plenty of classroom space, internet, a commercial kitchen. The building is handicapped accessible and is itching to serve people’s real needs.”
Brian has worked with seniors for more than 20 years and understands that being socially active gives people a sense of belonging which can improve emotional, mental, and physical wellness. He is concerned that the growing number of older Americans are being isolated. There are a lack of affordable senior housing and places that honor their wisdom.
Brian and Greg have been brain-storming about activities to support the 55+ community. VUMC currently hosts drop-in pickleball in the Family Life Center on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday evenings from 6:30 to 8:30. The South County Senior’s “Pace Maker’s” Walking Group will also meet there for the Tuesday activities from 10-11 a.m. during the winter months. They are envisioning additional activities such as games like bridge, euchre and exercise classes such as chair yoga. They would eventually like to host educational lunch & learns on compelling topics and resources.
Brian, Greg, as well as Drew Johnson, South County Community Services’ executive director, would like to invite other brainstormers to come together to share the vision, suggest ideas, and partner in strengthening senior adult service. Those who would like to learn more, suggest ideas, and help support the vision of a non-church affiliated senior center in Vicksburg, can join them at the church on Wednesday January 10 at 3 p.m. Words of wisdom and encouragement may also be emailed either to Brian (bpenny@southcountycs.com) or Greg (pastor@vicksburgumc.org).
VUMC is hosting a French Toast Dinner during Christmas in the Burg on Saturday December 9 from 4-6 p.m.
A Vicksburg woman channeled grief from the loss of her husband last year into a campaign that is bringing love and happiness to the community.
Sandy Skinner has embraced the nickname “The Rock Lady” – recognition of her newfound passion for painting rocks and placing the artwork in random locations throughout the village.
Skinner said the hobby is therapeutic. She loves spreading sunshine in such a simple manner.
“It all started when I lost my husband back in March 2022 and we had his ashes turned into rocks … I know it sounds strange but that’s an option people now have,” she said. “I’ve always loved rocks anyhow; I collected them as a kid. Anyhow, the rocks came back and they were just plain ol’ white rocks. That’s when I started painting rocks and once you start it’s so easy to just keep at it.”
Skinner, 63, said friends started bringing her rocks from their travels, asking her to paint them. Skinner was happy to oblige and spent the better part of 2022 painting rocks.
At the moment, she is taking a brief hiatus from the hobby. A number of her friends, however, have been inspired by Skinner’s gift to the community and are now involved in the undertaking.
Messages on the rocks vary greatly, though love, peace, hope and joy are common themes. Many feature a colorful picture of surprising quality, considering the canvas is a small, odd-shaped surface. Others include animals, landscapes and holiday themes such as Halloween. Skinner also painted and placed several rocks connected to Vicksburg’s 150th birthday last year. On a more personal level, she gave a shout-out to her favorite local restaurant, the Rise-N-Dine, with a specially painted rock in its honor. (She highly recommends its pumpkin bread.)
So, what exactly is protocol when someone happens upon a rock?
“Well, if someone is moved by what they see, whether it’s an inspirational message or just a picture they find pleasing, it’s OK to keep the rock,” Skinner said. “There are really no rules, but the idea is to find a rock, appreciate it, smile and then hide it again as if you’re borrowing a moment of happiness.”
Several people have found Skinner’s rocks and responded on her Facebook page: “Vicksburg Rocks!” She said a woman recently found a rock displaying the message “You are my sunshine.” The discoverer was moved to tears.
“Her husband had also recently passed and she posted that he sang that song to her every day,” Skinner said. “What an incredible coincidence she would find that and she indicated it has meant so much to her.”
A lifelong Vicksburg resident, Skinner laughed when sharing that her biggest concern has been a fear that young children will attempt to bite into a rock painted to look like an M&M.
Ideal rocks, she said, are flat and smooth. Such rocks are typically found in lakes.
Skinner said she is thrilled to hear anecdotes about grandparents painting rocks with their grandchildren after learning about her passion. Also, there have been rock-painting parties locally because of what she has started.
Skinner, whose maiden name was Glenn, said she plans to return to rock painting soon.
“Being kind and bringing happiness to people never gets old, it’s always in style,” she said. “So, I’ll keep at it for a while, along with the people in the community who have picked up this hobby because of me.”
A new Book Garden has just been “planted” and is already blooming in Vicksburg. Located within the Mezanmi Play Café at 105 S. Kalamazoo Ave, this Book Garden is a partnership with Mezanmi and Gilbert and Ivy, the local independent bookstore.
Book Gardens are bookshelves that we “plant” by filling them up with new books which have been donated or sponsored for youth of all ages in hopes that they will find one they love and take home for their growing reading curiosity,” said Nicole Kalmbach, coordinator of instructional services and community supports for KRESA. Children may keep the book they take home. Gilbert and Ivy will replenish the Garden at Mezanmi for the first six months, then work with KRESA through grants and donations to maintain it.
There are two more Book Gardens in Vicksburg – one at Indian Lake Elementary and the other at the Vicksburg District Library. The library Book Garden is unique. It serves those individuals unable to get a library card due to residency.
The goal of the KRESA Book Gardens is to replenish the book desert in Kalamazoo County. Our plan is to place book gardens throughout Kalamazoo County in historically underserved areas.
The KRESA book gardens are simply a way to get books into the hands of youth.
More information about the book gardens or a link to make a donation to support the program can be found at kresa.org/Page/2178.
Book Club for Adults – December 7 and January 4 from 9:30-10:30 a.m. Discuss a book with the group. At our December meeting, we will discuss “The Forever Witness” by Edward Humes. Check with the library for January’s book.
Crafts for Adults – December 12 from 1-3 p.m. Make fragrant orange pomander balls. Registration is required. Call 649-1648 to register.
Evening Writers’ Motivational Group – December 13 from 5:30-6:30 p.m. – new time! Report progress, set goals, share resources and advice, and troubleshoot or brainstorm your projects with other writers.
Birdwatchers / Nature-Watchers – December 28 from 1-2 p.m. For any adults who love to look at birds or nature, whether out in the wild or in your own back yard. Share photos, plans, and tips; learn from your fellow enthusiasts; and tell us about your adventures in pursuit of nature.
Movie Club: Featuring the Classics – December 18 from 1-3 p.m. Watch “Dr. No” at the library with coffee, tea, and cookies.
Adult Coloring – December 8 from 10:30-11:30 a.m. An hour of relaxing coloring, conversation, and hot drinks. All materials provided.
Trivia for Adults/Seniors – December 4 from 1-3 p.m. An afternoon of trivia with questions from the ’50s, ’60s, and ’70s. Prizes will be awarded.
Bridge Club – Join us for our weekly friendly game. Tuesdays from 9:30 a.m.-noon.
Tai Chi Class – Weekly class. The community is welcome. Tuesdays from 7-8 p.m. and Thursdays from 10:30-11:30 a.m.
Ladies Library Auxiliary Meeting – December 1, January 5 from 1-3 p.m. in our Lower Level space.
Youth and All-Ages Events
Gingerbread Houses – December 6 from 3-5 p.m. Come to the library to make gingerbread houses. Drop-in program for everyone ages 5+. All materials are provided, so registration is required. Call the library or register online.
All-Ages Holiday Craft – December 11 from 3-5 p.m. Fun, all-ages crafts for Christmas, Hanukkah, and Kwanzaa. Drop-in program for everyone ages 5+. All materials are provided, so registration is required. Call the library or register online.
Elementary Movie – December 27 from 10 a.m.-noon. “Frozen II”, rated PG. Includes popcorn; bring your own drink. Ages 5 -11.
Teen Movie – December 27 from 12:30-2:30 p.m. “Barbie”, rated PG-13. Includes popcorn, bring your own drink. Ages 12-18.
Elementary Craft/Activity – December 29 from 10-11 a.m. Join us and plan to be creative! Ages 5-11.
Teen Crafts – December 29 from 11 a.m.-noon. Join us for craft-making activities. Completed grades 6-12.
Mugs and Hugs – December 6 and 20 from 10-10:45 a.m. Stories, rhymes, peer interaction. Ages 4 and below.
Family Storytime – December 4, 11, and 18 from 10-10:30 a.m. Read, sing, and play. Ages 4 and below.
STEAM – December 18 from 11 a.m.-noon and December 21 from 6-7 p.m. Ages 5–11+. Engage in hands-on activities inspiring creativity and problem-solving skills.
Lego Club – December 19 from 1-2 p.m. and 6-6:45 p.m. Ages 5–11+. Events have suggested themes, but individual creativity is the goal.
Bulldog Break Time – December 14 and 28 from 2:45-4:15 p.m. Grades 6-12. A safe space for teens and tweens to get together and have fun. Crafts, games, social activities, and tasty treats provided.
Teen Break – December 14 and 28 from 4:15-5:45 p.m. Grades 6-12. Nintendo Switch and games for people under 18! All supplies provided along with fun snacks.
Brian and Ashley Robbins with Kelly and Dave Downs.
By Kathy DeMott
ChapNaz Lead Pastor Dave Downs has served this congregation for over 26 years. He and his wife, Kelly, are retiring at the end of December and have passed the leadership baton to a new team. Kelly has also served ChapNaz in many different capacities throughout the years, including children’s ministry, community engagement, and women’s ministry.
The new lead pastors are Brian and Ashley Robbins, who have attended ChapNaz since they were teens. They have been working with youth and serving as associate pastors since returning to Vicksburg in 2018. Brian has an MBA degree from Olivet Nazarene University, a master’s of divinity from Fuller Theological Seminary, and is currently working on a doctorate of ministry at Duke Divinity School. Ashley has a master’s of social work degree from the University of Illinois and is a licensed counselor.
“Having grown up in Vicksburg, we love our small town, the schools, and the broader community. I attended Vicksburg schools from kindergarten through 12th grade and now our three children are doing the same,” Brian says. “Caleb attends Vicksburg Middle School while Grace and Cora both attend Indian Lake Elementary.”
“We are so excited to minister in this new capacity. We see it as an opportunity for our entire family to serve in a place where our hearts are firmly planted. We value building relationships with all people. While the world promotes doing life alone, our goal is to help others feel loved by God and our church community,” adds Ashley.
As lead pastors, Brian and Ashley are committed to shared leadership. They will both carry the responsibility of pastoring, communal decision making, and have an equal voice in ministry as a co-pastoral team. They are the first spousal team to co-pastor at ChapNaz. Historically, the Church of the Nazarene has ordained women in positions of pastoral leadership since its establishment in 1908.
“We are stepping into something new, but we have been sharing leadership roles for quite some time already. If there is a decision to make that we don’t fully agree on, then we probably haven’t reached the right solution yet,” shares Ashley. Although Dave Downs has held the title of lead pastor, he and his wife Kelly have modeled shared leadership as a couple to their daughters, Ashley, Chelsey, and Kati, along with their church family for decades.
Dave and Kelly love their community and are excited for the future of the church. “We have a thriving congregation with a growing children’s ministry, youth ministry, young adult ministry, and an active Encore ministry for those 55 years and up.
We have several other ministries that engage our local community including Kids Hope and our Clothes Closet, which serves the entire south county area. While we do provide free clothing, diapers, hats, coats, gloves, and the like; it is the relationships we foster with the many different families we get to serve that is the greatest gift,” shares Kelly.
While a completely separate entity, ChapNaz is located one mile from the Michigan District Campground (Indian Lake Nazarene Campground, ILNC). Different church groups and individuals come from all over the Midwest to visit ILNC. However, “ChapNaz is a local church serving Vicksburg and her neighboring communities. Everyone is welcome here,” states Pastor Dave.
Dave and Kelly plan to move to North Carolina this winter to spend more time with their family and grandchildren who live on the East Coast. However, they will return to Michigan and enjoy the summer months in Vicksburg. The hardest part of retiring will be missing their church and community family.
The community is invited to attend the Retirement Celebration Open House for Pastor Dave and Kelly Downs on Sunday, December 10th from 2-5 p.m. at ChapNaz Church.
