Encore August 2023

Lori Hannemann, Michael Brundage, CFP® & Michelle Eldridge, CFA,CPWA® Wealth Management Partners

From the Editor

And just like that, August is here and fall is on its tail. In this issue, we encourage you to make the most of these glorious but fleeting days of summer before we have to snuggle into our puffy coats.

Our cover story is about paddling the Kalamazoo River. This story is an offshoot of June's in-depth article on the state of the Kalamazoo River. In researching that story, writer Bob Weir found that there was much to say about the recreational opportunities on the river, and he pitched the idea of exploring those opportunities in a stand-alone story. We are glad he did — his piece is the perfect primer on the ins and outs of paddling the river and the beauty that can be seen there.

Also this month, Sakhi Vyas takes us on a little international culinary trip by visiting five local ethnic groceries. An avid foodie, she loves exploring the unique, culturally specific foods available in these stores. As she says, it’s a great way to take a culinary tour without leaving your hometown.

On the arts front, we meet two young people whose stars are rising in the international arts world after being named the Young Gilmore Artists for the 2024 Gilmore International Piano Festival. A little closer to home, we meet artist Judith Farmer and her husband, Bill, a woodworker. Together they have created a unique home and studio outside of Scotts. From moving a historic house to their property to lovingly cultivating the grounds around it, they have made a truly creative paradise.

Finally, we meet Dr. Eric Achtyes, the new head of the Department of Psychiatry at the Western Michigan University Homer D. Stryker School of Medicine (WMed). He comes to his role at time when mental health issues are on the rise and a shortage of psychiatrists is predicted to get worse in the next few years. He tells us what WMed is doing on a local level to help.

Next month is Encore’s 50th anniversary. If you enjoy our magazine and its great coverage of the places, people and things that make our community special, we hope you'll take a minute to tell us. You can let us know what you like about Encore by emailing us at editor@encorekalamzoo.com or by commenting on our Facebook page at facebook.com/EncoreKalamazoo. Have a wonderful August!

Left to right: Tyler J. Stewart, Charles S. Ofstein, William B. Millard & Hannah M. Recknagel

Katie Houston

In this issue, Katie writes about The Gilmore's recent Young Artist awards for rising pianists, ahead of the organization's 2024 Piano Festival. “Hearing these young women still in their teens so excited about receiving this surprise award really put a smile on my face,” she says. Katie is an avid consumer of area arts offerings of all kinds, who gave up learning an instrument after attempts with a violin, a flute and a guitar.

Marie Lee

As part of the Southwest Michigan Journalism Collaborative's Mental Wellness Project, Marie interviewed Dr. Eric Achtyes about how the WMed Department of Psychiatry is preparing new psychiatrists and improving local access to mental health services. "A very experienced clinician, Dr. Achtyes knows that the best way to address the shortage of mental health care workers, specifically psychiatrists, is to adopt a collaborative team-care model," Marie says. "It's reassuring to learn what his department has done and is doing in that area." Marie is the editor of this fine magazine.

Heidi McCrary

Heidi wrote this month's story about artists Judith and Bill Farmer. “It’s not often that I insert myself into a story I am writing about others,” Heidi says, “but as I crafted this piece, I realized that telling the story about this delightfully artistic couple living in Scotts worked well as a quirky and entertaining travelogue. It was an adventure that encompassed art, nature, woodworking and local history. They’re both private people, so it was an extra treat that they opened their doors to allow a peek inside their beautiful retreat.” In addition to writing for Encore, Heidi has written the novel Chasing North Star, available locally and online. You can follow her at heidimccrary.net and facebook.com/heidimccraryauthor.

Robert M. Weir

Writing about paddling the Kalamazoo River flowed easily for Encore contributor Robert Weir. He has canoed, kayaked and rafted waterways in 12 states, including Michigan’s Grand River, the entire length of our state’s Au Sable River and through the Grand Canyon. You can see more of his work at robertmweir.com.

Publisher encore publications, inc

Editor marie lee

Art Director alexis stubelt

Photographer brian k powers

Contributing Writers kalloli bhatt, sharon sargent eckstein, katie houston, marie lee, heidi mccrary, sakhi vyas, robert m weir

Copy Editor/ Poetry Editor margaret deritter

Advertising Sales janis clark, janet gover, krieg lee

Distribution robert zedeck ron kilian

Office Coordinator kelly burcroff

Proofreader hope smith

Encore Magazine is published 12 times yearly. Copyright 2023, Encore Publications, Inc. All rights reserved. Editorial, circulation and advertising correspondence should be sent to:

www.encorekalamazoo.com

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Telephone: (269) 383–4433

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Email: Publisher@encorekalamazoo.com

The staff at Encore welcomes written comments from readers, and articles and poems for submission with no obligation to print or return them. To learn more about us or to comment, visit encorekalamazoo.com. Encore subscription rates: one year $36, two years $70. Current single issue and newsstand $4, $10 by mail. Back issues $6, $12 by mail. Advertising rates on request. Closing date for space is 28 days prior to publication date. Final date for print–ready copy is 21 days prior to publication date. The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by those interviewed and published here do not reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of Encore Magazine or the official policies, owners or employees of Encore Publications

FEATURE

With liveries, water trail maps and more, paddling the Kalamazoo River is easier and more accessible than ever

OntheCover: MembersoftheGreatLakesAdventureClub,clockwise fromthebottomright,NateStrong,KatherineBrennan,Dave GeelhoedandLisaWilliams,kayaktheKalamazooRiverbetween OtsegoandAllegan.PhotobyBrianK.Powers

"The Scent of Heaven," by Sharon Sargent Eckstein

First Things

Something Homey

Tours feature new and remodeled homes

Twelve newly constructed houses and one remodeled home will be highlighted Aug. 3–5 and Aug. 10–12 in the Parade of Homes, sponsored by the Home Builders Association of Western Michigan.

The event will offer in-person and virtual tours of the homes, which are located throughout Kalamazoo County. In-person tours of new homes will be held from 6–9 p.m. Aug. 4, 5, 11 and 12 and 1–7 p.m. Aug. 6 and 13, with tours of the remodeled home set for 6–9 p.m. Aug. 4 and 5 and 1–7 p.m. Aug. 6.

Tickets are $8 in advance and $10 at the event. The homes can all be viewed online for free. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit HBAParadeofHomes.org.

Something Wild Corks & Kegs event to benefit zoo

With live music, local and national beers and wines, gourmet food and exotic animals, the Corks & Kegs event Aug. 5 at Binder Park Zoo promises a wild time.

The annual event is a fundraiser for the zoo, located at 7400 Division Drive, in Battle Creek, and will include more than 20 local beer, wine and cider makers, a cornhole tournament, silent and live auctions, and chances to visit the zoo's animals.

The hours for the event, which is for adults only, will be 3–8 p.m., but VIP ticketholders will be admitted at 2 p.m. and have access to a VIP area until 5 p.m. Tickets are $55 for general admission, $25 for a designated driver, and $100 for VIP access. They are available at binderparkzoo.org.

Something New Fair Ground Festival debuts

A lineup of local, regional and national female artists will headline the first Fair Ground Festival, set for Aug. 27 at the Barry County Expo Center, at 1350 M-37, in Hastings.

The festival will feature Joseph, a folk band from Portland, Oregon, made up of three sisters. The group has appeared on several TV shows and was named a Spotify Spotlight Artist. The lineup also includes singer-songwriter Kyshona, blues artist Ruthie Foster, and Michigan bands The Accidentals, The Crane Wives, and Patty PerShayla and the Mayhaps.

Doors open at 2 p.m. for this event, which is sponsored by the Thornapple Arts Council. Tickets are $25–$50 for general attendance and $125–$250 for VIP tickets. Parking is $5. For more information or for tickets, visit thornapplearts.org.

ENCORE FIRST THINGS

Something Musical

Back-to-back blues events slated

If you are a blues fan, the weekend of Aug. 18–19 is for you.

An evening of free blues performances by the Crossroads Resurrection Band and Johnny Burgin will be the highlight of the Friday Food Truck Festival Blues Fest, set for 5–10 p.m. Aug. 18 at Arcadia Creek Festival Place, in downtown Kalamazoo. The event will also feature food truck and merchandise vendors and alcoholic beverages. For more information, visit foodtruckrallykz.com.

The next day the Kalamazoo Valley Blues Association's Blues Bash will present six international and award-winning blues acts at Old Dog Tavern, 402 E. Kalamazoo Ave. The lineup features 2019 Emmy nominee Victor Wainwright and the Train, Annika Chambers, Paul DesLauriers, Deuce ‘n a Quarter, DownRiver Dan, and 5-Second Rule.

The music begins at 3 p.m., doors open at 2 p.m., and attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs. Tickets are $25 in advance or $30 the day of the event. For tickets or more information, visit kvba.org.

Lynn Houghton, the regional history curator for Western Michigan University’s Archives and Regional History Collection, will lead several walks this month exploring the community’s history and architecture. The 60– to 90–minute walks are free, and no registration is required. The tours and meeting locations are as follows:

• Downtown Historical Markers, 8 a.m. Aug. 4; meet at Gazelle Sports, 214 S. Kalamazoo Mall.

• Vine Historic District, 6:30 p.m. Aug. 10; meet at Pearl & West Dutton streets.

• Riverside Cemetery, 6:30 p.m. Aug. 24; meet at Gull Road and Riverview Drive.

• Oakland Drive/Winchell Neighborhood, 8 a.m. Aug. 25; meet at Winchell Avenue and Aberdeen Drive.

ASK LAWYER

A.

Q. My husband is going into a nursing home. I’ve been told it is possible for me to create a trust and protect my assets from the spend down at the nursing home. Is that true?

Please send your questions to:

Michael J. Willis, J.D., C.P.A. Willis Law 491 West South Street Kalamazoo, MI 49007 269.492.1040 www.willis.law

countable asset, but instead an income stream and thereby exempt for Medicaid purposes. This is a sophisticated planning technique, and highly encourage you to seek counsel before implementing this technique or any other Medicaid

Q. Does the Biden administration intend to modify the estate and wealth transfer tax laws?

planning.

it is

A. Yes. Most often when folks talk on trust planning, they are referencing a revocable trust. In fact, that is the case probably more than 99% of the time. A revocable trust under Michigan law generally is set up only to avoid probate--that’s its only benefit. However, there is an irrevocable trust for persons in your circumstances that can be established with your assets to the extent they exceed the protected amount (which under Michigan law will cap at a little over $125,000).

If the trust is irrevocable and the assets are effectively established in an annuity income stream back to you per the terms of the trust, then in such a circumstance the trust will no longer be considered a countable asset, but instead an income stream and thereby exempt for Medicaid purposes. This is a sophisticated planning technique, and highly encourage you to seek counsel before implementing this technique or any other Medicaid planning.

9471992-01

BUSINESS

THE

A. Under certain circumstances, a spouse might be financially liable for debts incurred by their late spouse while they were alive. Under Michigan law, a spouse is responsible for debt only if they e lender would have the right to seize the collateral to satisfy the debt. However, if the debt is unsecured and was solely in the name of the deceased spouse, the debt obligations would fall to the deceased person’s estate. MCL 700.3803 provides a 4-month time frame for creditors to bring a claim against the estate of the deceased spouse upon the publication of notice to creditors by the personal representative of the estate. If the estate is solvent, the debt would be paid pursuant to the priority of claims as established through the probate court.

Please send your questions to: Michael J. Willis, J.D., C.P.A. Willis Law 491 West South Street Kalamazoo, MI 49007 269.492.1040 www.willis.law Michael J. Willis is the Managing Partner of Willis Law, Attorneys and Counselors at Law, is licensed to practice law in Florida and Michigan, and is registered as a certified public accountant in the state of Illinois. Attorney Willis is rated as an A V -Preeminent Attorney by Martindale-Hubbell. This rating, according to Martindale, which has been rating lawyers for over a century, signifies that an attorney has reached the heights of professional excellence and is recognized for the highest levels of skill and integrity. He is listed in the Best Lawyers in America. Ask LAWYER THE BUSINESS AND ESTATE PLANNING Michael J. Willis is the Managing Partner of Willis Law, Attorneys and Counselors at Law, licensed to practice law in Florida and Michigan, and is registered as a certified public accountant the state of Illinois. Attorney Willis is rated as an -Preeminent Attorney by Martindale-Hubbell. This rating, according to Martindale, which has been rating lawyers for over century, signifies that an attorney has reached the heights of profession excellence and is recognized for the highest levels of skill and integrity He is listed in the Best Lawyers in America. Please send your questions to: Michael J. Willis, J.D., C.P.A. Willis Law 491 West South Street Kalamazoo, MI 49007 269.492.1040 www.willis.law ASK LAWYER THE BUSINESS AND ESTATE PLANNING MICHAEL J. WILLIS, J.D., C.P.A., WILLIS LAW Q. My husband is going into a nursing home. I’ve been told is possible for me to create a trust and protect my assets from the spend down at the nursing home. Is that true? A. Yes. Most often when folks talk on trust planning, they are referencing a revocable trust. In fact, that is the case probably more than 99% of the time. A revocable trust under Michigan law generally is set up only to avoid probate--that’s its only benefit. However, there is an irrevocable trust for persons in your circumstances that can be established with your assets to the extent they exceed the protected amount (which under Michigan law will cap at a little over $125,000). the trust is irrevocable and the assets are effectively established in an annuity income stream back to you per the terms of the trust, then in such a circumstance the trust will no longer be considered a countable asset, but instead an income stream and thereby exempt for Medicaid purposes. This is a sophisticated planning technique, and highly encourage you to seek counsel before implementing this technique or any other Medicaid planning. Michael Willis is the Managing Partner of Willis Law, Attorneys and Counselors at Law, licensed to practice law in Florida and Michigan, and is registered as certified public accountant in the state of Illinois. Attorney Willis is rated as an A -Preeminent Attorney by Martindale-Hubbell. This rating, according to Martindale, which has been rating lawyers for over century, signifies that an attorney has reached the heights of professional excellence and recognized for the highest levels of skill and integrity He listed in the Best Lawyers in America. Please send your questions to: Michael J. Willis, J.D., C.P.A. Willis Law 491 West South Street Kalamazoo, MI 49007 269.492.1040 www.willis.law ASK LAWYER THE BUSINESS AND ESTATE PLANNING MICHAEL J. WILLIS, J.D., C.P.A., WILLIS LAW Q. My husband is going into a nursing home. I’ve been told it is possible for me to create a trust and protect my assets from the spend down at the nursing home. Is that true? A. Yes. Most often when folks talk on trust planning, they are referencing a revocable trust. In fact, that is the case probably more than 99% of the time. A revocable trust under Michigan law generally is set up only to avoid probate--that’s its only benefit. However, there is an irrevocable trust for persons in your circumstances that can be established with your assets to the extent they exceed the protected amount (which under Michigan law will cap at a little over $125,000). If the trust is irrevocable and the assets are effectively established in an annuity income stream back to you per the terms of the trust, then in such a circumstance the trust will no longer be considered a

9471992-01 Michael J. Willis is the Managing Partner of Willis Law, Attorneys and Counselors at Law, is licensed to practice law in Florida and Michigan, and is registered as a certified public accountant in the state of Illinois. Attorney Willis is rated as an A V -Preeminent Attorney by Martindale-Hubbell. This rating, according to Martindale, which has been rating lawyers for over a century, signifies that an attorney has reached the heights of professional excellence and is recognized for the highest levels of skill and integrity He is listed in the Best Lawyers in America.

9471992-01

Five Faves

Grocery stores that help you travel the globe

BY sakhi vyas PHOTOGRAPHY BY brian k powers

It’s tough to hop on an airplane and jet around the world, but experimenting with new foods is an exciting, low-risk way to explore new cultures. This has become easier in recent years, as the international, or world foods, aisles at the major grocery stores have expanded their offerings, but there is nothing quite like a specialty grocery store that can transport you to another continent or region. These are my favorite local stores that are sure to take you to another culture and fill your home with flavors and aromas from across the world.

Pacific Rim 229 W. Kilgore Road

A longstanding staple of Kalamazoo, Pacific Rim started out in the lower level of Oakwood Plaza before moving to its Kilgore location in 2018, where it expanded its offerings to include Cravings Deli, on-site cooking classes, and workshops such as traditional floral painting and Chinese watercolor painting. Pacific Rim has fresh produce as well as herbs and spices from China, Vietnam, Japan, Korea, Thailand, Philippines and Malaysia — it’s my go-to stop whenever we’re making sushi or dumplings at home. Pick up some aromatic greens like fresh lemongrass or kaffir lime leaf or browse the store's beverage selection to sample floral flavors like lychee or cherry blossom. And, of course, Pacific Rim is the place to go for specialty cooking tools that you might not find elsewhere, such as bamboo steamer baskets, spoons for sticky rice, coconut knives and woks of all sizes. And while you’re there, stop in at Cravings Deli for a gorgeous bowl of ramen or other international dish.

World of Spices 5911 S. Westnedge Ave.

I’ve been coming here since it was just the back room of Hoffman’s Party Store. I still call it “Neha Aunty’s store” referring to Neha Sharma, the owner, and I had to look up the name World of Spices while writing this piece. Admittedly, I’m no good at cooking Indian food (my late grandmother would be aghast), but this place smells of the roasted spices, sandalwood incense and dusty flours that once filled my grandmother’s home. You can find all the tools and ingredients to cook up a dish or two or three from across the Indian subcontinent. Try out some of the produce, such as bitter melon, green chilis, fenugreek greens or mangos when they’re in season. The store's freezer section is your hookup for samosas, parathas or puris, and the dry goods section has all varieties of lentils, rice in enormous quantities and, of course, spices. An incredible array of herbs and spices are also available, ranging from beginner-friendly coriander seeds and roasted cumin powder to the more pungent stuff like asafetida and black salt.

Asifiwe Supermarket

1923

W. Main St.

Asifiwe brings flavors from Africa and the Caribbean to Kalamazoo at its unassuming little spot along West Main Street. As you enter, you’ll be hit with the heady scent of dried meat and rich groundnuts as your eyes settle on the joyful selection of tea biscuits — Parle-G, Marie Biscuits, and Digestives are the perfect little bites when dipped into a cup of milky tea or coffee. Farther in, you’ll find some accessible ingredients like peanutmeal (perfect for thickening a hearty stew) and fresh or frozen cassava (a tuberous root also called yucca in different parts of the world). And if you’re coming in armed with some recipes and research, this is the place where you’ll find flours such as sorghum, millet, tapioca and teff. There is fresh and refrigerated produce to browse as well as freezers full of meats. Asifiwe’s unique selections will bring African and Afro-Caribbean flavors into your meal routine.

El Ranchero

4315

Portage St.

We live in a region with a rich population of Hispanic and Latin American neighbors, and there are lots of great culinary options, including La Tienda Guatemalteca, La Hispanica and even La Azteca Bakery. But a grocery visit to El Ranchero is sure to fill your kitchen with the flavors of Latin America. Browse the meat counter, shuffle through fresh produce, fill your cart with snacks and spices, stock up on tortillas and sauces and pick up some juice, maybe guava or mango. Note: You will not be able to tear your children away from the party section if they spot the piñatas. And stop at the restaurant counter for tacos after filling your grocery cart.

International Gourmet Pantry 1514 W. Michigan Ave.

This shop near Western Michigan University was established in 1982 and specializes in food from the Mediterranean, the Middle East and the South Asian subcontinent. Notably, this is the place to go for halal meats, including chicken, beef, goat and lamb. The shop has an amazing selection of goodies such as baklava and date-based sweets. You will also find a robust refrigerated and frozen section with falafels and kebabs. There’s a lot of dairy to explore here as well— thickened yogurt like Labne, yogurt-based beverages, cheese spreads or blocks such as paneer, milk powder and more. Plus, a kitchen staple: ginger-garlic paste. If you get only one thing, let it be the ginger-garlic paste. It’s so versatile.

About the Author

Sakhi Vyas grew up in Kalamazoo and attended Kalamazoo College, where she studied international relations and business. As part of her studies, she spent time in Japan and China, then moved to India to work for a year before getting her master’s degree at a university in Madrid. Sakhi returned to Kalamazoo in 2012, but she often craves flavors and textures from around the world.

Bringing Art and Nature Together

Artists Bill and Judith Farmer have created a sanctuary in Scotts

BY HEIDI MCCRARY

My watch beeps, and as instructed, I make the turn, traveling down the backroads of Southwest Michigan between Kalamazoo and Battle Creek. I am looking for Two Farmers Studio, the artistic refuge of Judith and Bill Farmer.

Horses graze in an open field to my right, and a farm spans the length of a city block to my left. I come to the little hamlet of Scotts — too small to be categorized as a town or village, it receives the unglamorous distinction of being an unincorporated community. But this proud community in Pavilion Township begs to differ.

Scotts acquired its name from fur trader Samuel Scott, who settled in the area in 1847. However, it is believed that much earlier, Chippewa, Ottawa and Potawatomi tribes occupied this area in fairly large numbers. A cluster of homes and businesses soon grew around the train stop of the Grand Trunk Railroad, and the community grew in population until the importance of travel by rail dwindled. As its population declined, so did Scotts, with the brunt of the demise taking place in 1911 when a tragic fire destroyed the majority of the town.

A U.S. post office is the lone holdover. I drive past the four corners, passing a general store, a café and a malt shoppe, making a mental

note to visit these shops on another day. Turning down a driveway almost hidden within the trees, I ride past beautiful hanging artwork on both sides before the woods open up to a clearing where Judith and Bill Farmer’s homestead is found.

Visitors will immediately notice the cozy two-story house, complete with a front porch adorned with two pairs of mud boots carefully arranged by the front door. To the left, a brick walkway, featuring repurposed bricks from Kalamazoo streets, leads guests to Judith’s art studio, a building that also serves as a garage and as Bill’s woodworking shop. It appears that artistic blood flows through the veins of both wife and husband.

Judith waves me into the house. Art in the many forms surrounds me — photos, pottery, furniture. The floors and walls speak the history of this house which is sitting on its second foundation. Originally a two-story house built in 1842, it stood tall at the corner of 36th Street and R Avenue on a small dairy farm owned by Gladys (formerly Grover) and Ed Carver on the outskirts of Scotts, appropriately called Grover Corner at the time.

The Methodist church in Scotts eventually acquired the house, along with 40 acres of land, with plans to tear it down and build a new

At left: Judith and Bill Farmer relax on the porch of their home in Scotts. Above: It's a short walk from the house to Judith's art studio and Bill's woodworking shop.

Brian Powers

church on the spot. At one point, the members of the church even considered donating the house to the local fire department to burn down as a training exercise. Instead, a church board member fought to save the house. With its solid post and beam construction (like a barn), it was built to be disassembled if needed, and moved. The church held a silent auction for the structure, which the Farmers won, along with the 20-plus acres where it now sits.

But moving a 180-year-old structure from the center of Scotts to a wooded private area south of the four-corners was another matter. The process took six weeks from start to finish. The house was trailered down 36th Street, blocking traffic for several days before settling onto its new location on 27 acres of wooded land. The move attracted the attention of locals and even local media such as the Kalamazoo Gazette, which printed a story on the historic move.

The Farmers appreciate the importance of maintaining the integrity of their historic dwelling. “With every project we tackle, we are careful to follow the original design of the home — doorway trim, flooring,” Bill says. “We were able to save the flooring in most every room. While this wood flooring in the entry is new, we made sure it complements the flooring in the adjoining rooms.”

“Obviously we needed to update certain amenities,” Judith explains as we walk into the laundry room and bathroom, which originally functioned as a walk-in pantry. But even with the updates, every shelf, cupboard and teacup reflect the magic of this repurposed home.

The artwork found throughout the house is not just that of Judith and Bill, but rather a celebration of many local and regional artists, from Richard Jordan, who specializes in plein air painting (painting outdoors, while immersed in the surroundings) to Conrad Kauffman, another artist who paints landscapes found throughout Southwest Michigan.

As all homeowners know, updates are constant. “We just added a new coat of paint to the outside, monochromatic. A nod to its nineteenth century roots,” Judith says, noting how the colors are neutral but bold, fitting in seamlessly with the outdoors in every season. “It’s never ending. We’re always working on something.”

“She’s very hands-on and not afraid to get her hands dirty,” Bill laughs. “She even has her own wheelbarrow.”

We make our way to Judith's studio, where the walls are accented with her oil paintings. “I used to paint to relax,” she says. “Then I grew into creating art with a mission to disrupt — encouraging those who view my art to think and contemplate what the piece is saying to them. My work has evolved to sometimes including an environmental narrative which speaks to our assault upon it.

"Art and my admiration for my surroundings was in my blood from as early as I can remember. Growing up, we often camped up north, and I was always combing the Michigan beaches for rocks, driftwood, anything that spoke to me.”

Judith’s passion for the outdoors shows in her work: oil paintings inspired by nature. Looking at a series of oil paintings hanging in the gallery, it’s easy to see the message Judith is conveying, both metaphorically and literally in the dark dramatic colors and lines.

While in the studio, an orange tabby cat greets us momentarily before scurrying off to find the other cats that live on the property and come and go as they please. “It started with one feral cat who visited us and surprised us with two litters, one after the other,” Judith says, “We were finally able to catch her so we could get her to the vet, and they’re now all happily fixed.”

Making our way back to the house, we sit down for tea and more conversation. I take a bite of my cranberry scone, fresh from the oven, as I take in the kitchen, which imbues a theme of Joanna Gaines meets Walton’s Mountain. (An assessment corrected by

Clockwise from top left: The Farmers painted their house a monochromatic color that blends with the surroundings; Judith in her art studio; oil paintings created by Judith; and the meticulously cared for grounds that surround their sanctuary.

Brian Powers

Judith, who jokingly reminds that she tackled the majority of the interior design long before the talented Ms. Gaines entered the TV world of home improvement.)

“This is our spiritual sanctuary. The majority of our heat comes from our woodburning stove. It’s important to us to lessen our carbon footprint,” Bill says, noting that all the wood is taken from fallen trees in the woods on their property.

After a career in graphic design, Judith, and Bill, an arbitration specialist with the American Federation of State, County & Municipal Employees (AFSCME) organization, now enjoy retirement at their self-described retreat, complete with a welcoming firepit in the backyard and an outdoor shower equipped with cold and hot water.

“Art is my life,” Judith explains. “It’s the environment you create for yourself. People

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Visit Two Farmers

The public can visit Two Farmers Studio during the Arts & Eats Tour of Southwest Michigan, from 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Oct. 21–22. This free self-driving tour takes fans of the arts down the back roads of Allegan, Barry, Calhoun, Kalamazoo, and Van Buren County, providing many unique studios and dining options along the way. Learn more about the Arts & Eats Tour at artsandeats.org. More of Judith’s art can be viewed at judithfarmerfineart.com.

often say they’re not artists, but I believe everyone is an artist in their own way. I used to be uncomfortable selling my art because it meant putting a dollar value on what I do, putting a price on where and how art fits in our culture. But quite literally art encompasses everything we do — what we eat, how we speak, and how we live.”

And it shows … all around me. From the house to the grounds to the woods.

Brian Powers

“Sometimes we can’t help but wonder how this all came to be," Judith muses. "It has become part of our life’s work, beating us up and feeding us at the same time. We always take time to acknowledge how fortunate we are to have found ourselves here, healthy and still loving everything.

As summer unfolds, their time in the studio picks up, planning for new work for this year’s Arts & Eats, an annual event coming up again this fall.

"When I paint, I am channeling from my visual bank of beautiful places, nature and everyday objects,” Judith says. “They become environments created with color, light and texture, in this time and place. Within those images, stories are told, warnings are given, sadness is addressed, and the beauty of Earth is reminded … energy created.“

Left: Despite modern amenities such as a dishwasher, the Farmers have maintained the home's historical farmhouse essence. Above: The Farmers enjoy the nature that surrounds their home.

In June's issue, Encore took an in-depth look at the Kalamazoo River, its ancient and recent history, the way it’s been abused, and the means by which it is being restored. This article focuses on the river's recreational value, especially for canoeists and kayakers, many of whom also take to the water to catch game fish.

BY ROBERT M. WEIR

The dream of pleasantly dipping a paddle, floating down a river and maybe wetting a fish hook exists as a possibility for people in Southwest Michigan thanks to abundant waterways, including those of the Kalamazoo River watershed. The main showpiece of the watershed is, of course, the river itself. Wending from two headwaters east of Albion, the river flows 130 miles northwest to Saugatuck, where it joins the waters of Lake Michigan.

The rise of rental and livery services on the river, as well as the popularity of sports such as paddleboarding and kayaking, have made getting a river's-eye view of the area more accessible than ever. And, according to experienced paddlers, the river does not disappoint.

Kenny Kornheiser, vice president of the Kalamazoo River Watershed Council, has paddled the entire river downstream from Albion. He says the Kalamazoo “offers a wide variety of paddle experiences.”

“It’s very varied in its terrain,” he says, “with agricultural land, urban land, sand dunes near the Lake Michigan shore, and areas that are nearly unpopulated and relatively wild, particularly in the Allegan State Game Area.” In the backwaters of dam impoundments, the water is flat and the flow is slow. But Kornheiser adds that there are “a few patches with more rapids and swift water with ripples.”

Nate Strong, another experienced paddler and a member of the Great Lakes Adventure Club, says the river “has mostly a wild, rural feeling to it. You don’t see a lot of houses. Unfortunately, the towns haven’t incorporated the river into their culture. When you paddle through a town, it has more of an industrial feeling. But most of the time, it’s scenic.”

Dan Burton, who has paddled the river’s entire length and created the Michigan Water Trails map for the Kalamazoo River (see link on page 20), says the river near Ceresco (between Marshall and Battle Creek) is “a really fun stretch … rocky and bouldery, reminiscent of rivers in Northern Michigan.” He has a special fondness for the North Branch and the South Branch above their confluence in Albion.

“These are a little more challenging and quite nice, with some wetlands. The headwaters are very pretty, especially with the golden colors of leaves in the fall,” he says.

Kenny Kornheiser, Kalamazoo River Watershed Council vice president, and his sidekick, Lucy, float in a canoe down the Kalamazoo River alongside kayaker Pat Fisher.

Go Float Your Boat

Paddling the Kalamazoo River can be a 'wonderful' experience

Brian Powers

Liveries and launch sites

Getting on the river is not a problem. For those with their own watercraft, there are dozens of put-in and take-out points along its banks. Some have ample parking for vehicles and trailers; some offer only roadside pull-overs — all of which are nicely defined by the Michigan Water Trails map.

And with four rental and livery services serving the river, those who don’t have their own vessel can still enjoy a few hours on the water.

The Twin Pines Campground and Canoe Livery is located on the South Branch, between Hanover and Albion. Owner Cheryl Travis says this part of the river is “very calm, not real deep, good for first-timers and families with kids, with lots of nature, like deer and ducks.”

Lois Heuchert, owner of Plainwell Kayak Co., speaks with passion about the part of the Kalamazoo where her customers paddle, primarily from D Avenue to Plainwell and Plainwell to Otsego, with some paddlers starting in Parchment or Otsego. “It’s a beautiful, flowing river with clear water that provides a wonderful recreational experience,” she says. “It’s not real deep in most places, and it’s not a fast-flowing river most of the summer.”

Farther downstream, near Fennville, Julie Hulsey, owner of WaterTrail Ventures Kayak Rental, says this downstream part of the river “is quite gorgeous, one of the most scenic sections on the Lower Kalamazoo. It’s all natural. A lot of wildlife and beautiful scenery. No docks and no homes all the way from Allegan Dam to our landing in New Richmond.”

Hulsey also mentions Ottawa Marsh, “a huge marshland with a lot of migratory birds,” the entrance to which is accessible from this part of the Kalamazoo. However, Hulsey and paddlers who know the marsh and its numerous, potentially confusing channels, warn that first-timers should not go there alone. “We’ve had a few people who don’t have a GPS or a guide get lost and not know which way to go to get out,” she says.

Ryan Gerard at Third Coast Paddling, in Douglas, says that paddlers are fortunate to be able to access the part of the Kalamazoo River where it widens considerably before flowing into Lake Michigan. Gerard’s company, located between County Road

A-2 and US-31/I-196, is on the east side of a section of the river called Wade’s Bayou. From there, he says, because “the strength of the river is significantly reduced,” it is possible to easily paddle a canoe, kayak or paddleboard downstream into Saugatuck and back or explore the wide bayou, which he describes as “a beautiful stretch of water that is essentially wilderness with a lot of wildlife and very little boat traffic.” This is the only part of the Kalamazoo River where paddling does not require “spotting cars” downstream or hiring a livery service to transport watercraft upstream.

"Spotting" a vehicle

Paddlers who own their own vessels and don’t use a livery service to shuttle them back from the take-out point will need to “spot” a vehicle at the take-put point and then leave another at the put-in point. This involves at least two vehicles and three people, or two people and a means to lock the watercraft to prevent theft.

Spotting vehicles involves driving both vehicles to the put-in point and leaving the vessels there locked up or with a third person to prevent theft. Then both vehicles are driven to the take-out point, where one is left. The paddlers then return in the second vehicle to the put-in point.

After paddling to the take-out point, they leave their vessels there (again locked up or with a third person.) Two paddlers then drive back to the put-in point, retrieve the other vehicle and drive both vehicles to the takeout point to load the watercraft. If “spotting” with only two people, paddlers should be sure to take locking cables with them when paddling. (The author of this article, paddling alone, has accomplished this “spotting” procedure with his vehicle, a bicycle and a security lock.)

Whether "spotting" vehicles or using a livery service, paddlers should be sure to take with them on the river what they might need at the end of the paddle: car keys, tiedown straps, locking cables, a towel, dry clothes. While tipping over into the water is not likely, splashes happen. Put anything you

Kayakers from the Great Lakes Adventure Club, from top left, Katherine Brennan, Nate Strong, Robert Weir, Pat Fisher and Lisa Williams, make their way from a launch site on the Kalamazoo River in Otsego.

Kanoe the Kazoo

Kanoe the Kazoo is a series of events designed to help people learn about and enjoy the Kalamazoo River. They are hosted by signatories to the Lake Allegan/Kalamazoo River Total Maximum Daily Load agreement and are offered through a partnership with the Kalamazoo River Watershed Council (KRWC). This is the 20th year these events have been offered. The events include eight paddle outings and three river cleanups (the latter for experienced paddlers only).

The keynote event will be a celebration Aug. 19 that marks the 20th anniversary of Kanoe the Kazoo. This celebration will begin with a paddle trip starting from the M-89 Boat Launch, west of 43rd Street and 12 miles upstream (southeast) from New Richmond, and ending at WaterTrail Ventures Paddle Respite Landing, at 3151 57th St., in New Richmond.

Julie Hulsey, owner of WaterTrail Ventures, advises paddlers to be at the bridge as early as 8:30 a.m. to unload their watercraft. Her river stewards will keep an eye on equipment while paddlers drive their vehicles to the landing, from which they will be shuttled back to the boat launch. Paddlers will launch between 11 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. and should arrive at the take-out point four to five hours later.

The party will continue across 57th Street at The Chapel at New Richmond for an evening of catered food, beer, wine and live bluegrass, Americana and blues music by the Hoot Owls and BlueBack. The latter includes Kenny Kornheiser, of the KRWC, on harmonica.

People are welcome to attend the party even if they don’t paddle. There is no cost, but donations are welcome and will benefit education efforts about the Kalamazoo River.

The KRWC is the river’s oldest and most active citizenbased advisory organization. Founded in 1993 with the goals of education, science and partnership with community organizations, government agencies and municipalities, the watershed council also knows how to have fun — and help others to have fun — on the river.

You can find details at the KRWC website: kalamazooriver.org/events/kanoe-the-kazoo.

Brian Powers

want to stay dry, including your phone and camera, in a waterproof dry-bag and secure it to your vessel.

Improved launch sites

As more and more folks begin to appreciate the Kalamazoo River's recreational potential, communities along the waterway are embracing that potential as well.

The city of Parchment is in the early stages of installing a new launch site downstream from the Mosel Street Bridge, near the local post office. This site will feature a chute for canoes and kayaks — but not motorboats — that corresponds with the riverbank’s natural features. The project will also involve partial removal of an unused railroad trestle a few yards farther downstream. The section not removed will be transformed into a fishing pier and pedestrian observation deck.

Cheryl Lyon-Jenness, chair of Parchment's Parks and Recreation Department, encourages paddlers who pass through Parchment to pause at Glenn Allen Island, a land mass 2,000 feet long and 500 feet wide that bifurcates the river due west of Parchment Middle School and is accessible only by water. The south end of the island is a heron rookery that is also visible from the walking path on the east riverbank.

Lyon-Jenness says the stretch of the river from Parchment to Plainwell, is “an amazing resource, a delightful river trail, a hidden jewel people can get tremendous pleasure from.”

An outing from Parchment to Plainwell can take several hours, depending on the speed of the current and the rate at which paddlers paddle. A popular mid-point to either put into or take out is near D Avenue. The current launch site is on private property immediately north of the D Avenue Bridge on “river right” (a term paddlers use to denote a side of the river as one floats downstream). The fee is $1 per vessel, plus $1 per vehicle to park, and paddlers need to bring exact change.

Cooper Township Supervisor Jeff Sorensen reports that the township owns property on

Here are links to liveries, maps and organizations mentioned in the main story:

Liveries & rentals

Plainwell Kayak Company: 211 N. Main St., Plainwell. 269-365-2926. plainwellkayakcompany.com. Offers a three-hour trip from D Avenue to Plainwell: single-person kayak, $55; tandem kayak, $110, and a one-hour trip from Plainwell to Otsego: single-person kayak, $30; tandem kayak, $60. Shuttle service for those with their own kayaks: $15 per kayak.

Third Coast Paddling: 26 Bayou St., Douglas. 269-932-4575. thirdcoastpaddling. com. Offers paddling on Wade’s Bayou: single-person kayak, $25 per hour; tandem kayak, $30 per hour; stand-up paddleboard, $25 per hour. Also has other rental sites on the Paw Paw River near St. Joseph/Benton Harbor, the Galien River near New Buffalo, and Lake Michigan at Silver Beach, in St. Joseph, and at Warren Dunes State Park, near Sawyer.

Twin Pines Campground and Canoe Livery: 9800 Wheeler Road, Hanover (southwest of Jackson). 517-524-6298. twinpinescampgrounds222653671.wordpress. com. Offers three-hour trips: two-person canoe, $35; single-person kayak, $30. Shuttle service for privately owned vessels, $10 per vessel.

WaterTrail Ventures Kayak Rental: 3151 57th St., Fennville. 269-547-1884. watertrailventures.com. Offers trips along the Lower Kalamazoo ranging from two hours to a full day: single-person kayak, $30–$40; two-person canoe, $40–$50; guided wilderness tour, $55 per person; shuttle service for privately owned vessels, $40 per kayak or $50 per canoe. Also offers multiple-day paddling and camping trips.

Maps and organizations

• Dan Burton’s Kalamazoo River Trail map: michiganwatertrails.org/trail.asp?ait=cv&cid=269

• Great Lakes Adventure Club: greatlakesadventureclub.com

• Kalamazoo Nature Center: naturecenter.org

• Kalamazoo River Watershed Council’s Kanoe the Kazoo web page: kalamazooriver.org/events/kanoe-the-kazoo

• SnoFlo (showing river flow rates): snoflo.org/river-levels/kalamazoo-river

• U.S. Geological Service’s National Water Dashboard (showing river flow rates): dashboard.waterdata.usgs.gov/app/nwd/en/?region=lower48&aoi=default

Ready to get your paddles wet?

Katherine Brennan, front, and Dave Geelhoed navigate rapids on the Kalamazoo River downstream from Otsego.

Brian Powers

river left just upstream (south) from that bridge. “There’s a trailhead there that the township leased to the Kalamazoo County Parks Department to expand parking for the Kalamazoo River Valley Trail,” he says. Representatives of the township, the county, and the Michigan Department of Natural Resources have had a few initial discussions about possibly constructing a kayak and canoe launch there too. “That would be a nice stopping point, starting point, or a place to get out and relax,” Sorensen says.

Another lovely relaxation spot is the Kalamazoo Nature Center's two miles of undeveloped river frontage between Parchment and D Avenue. The nature center has a network of pathways from its interpretive building to an observation platform overlooking the river. With its audible current, this platform is a highly restive and restorative place that currently is accessible only on foot or by paddlers who are experienced enough to deal with a very challenging docking maneuver.

However, Tom Springer, the Nature Center’s vice president of development, says his organization is “trying to secure funds to put in ramps with rollers that would make it easier for kayakers to get up and pull their boat on shore."

"We would like to use the river to invite more people to the nature center,” he says.

Water safety

Even though much of the river is wide and flat, Plainwell Kayak Co.'s Heuchert advises, “Make sure you know what the river conditions are before you go out.”

Strong, of the Great Lakes Adventure Club, also urges caution, especially for novice paddlers and people who want to take their kids out for the first time. “It’s important to understand river safety,” he says, “especially in the spring when the water’s high (due to rain and snowmelt). You’ll hear people say, ‘Hey, the river’s up! Let’s go!’ But experienced paddles will say, ‘That’s not a good day to go.’ If the river’s too high, it’s not safe.”

To help determine the safety of the river, Heuchert recommends looking at a website hosted by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) that shows the river’s flow rates. “When

the cubic feet per second gets over 1,400 to 1,500, people seem to have trouble,” she says. “Really experienced kayakers will tell you that faster water is more fun to them, but the average or inexperienced kayaker does better when the flow rate is under 1,000 feet per second.”

With monitoring stations on the river near Marshall, Battle Creek, Comstock, Allegan and New Richmond, the USGS provides an interactive map on its web pages to show

this flow-rate information along with other river data. The climate research and outdoor recreation organization SnoFlo also provides the same data in simple numbers. Search for “flow rate on the Kalamazoo River today.”

But, the best advice for beginning paddlers? Go with experienced paddlers who know river safety and can help with “spotting” vehicles. And, as you float, enjoy the abundance of nature at every bend.

TheArts

Gilmore Young Artists College student, high school senior win 2024 honors

BY KATIE HOUSTON

The Gilmore is best known for its biennial piano festival, but the organization also commissions music, has a robust piano education program and presents concerts in "off-festival" years.

Another aspect of the organization’s depth is the career-making awards it gives out and is known for internationally. As each festival approaches, the organization bestows Gilmore Young Artist honors on two young pianists and names its Gilmore Artist, an honor that can shine a spotlight on a deserving pianist for years, if not throughout a career. The award winners are determined by a nominating committee and advisory panel, the latter of which spends months, if not years, hearing artists perform, in person whenever possible. The artists are unaware they are being considered and get to enjoy a life-changing phone call or in-person visit from the leader of The Gilmore, who currently is Executive and Artistic Director Pierre van der Westhuizen.

Last month the organization kicked off its 2024 festival announcements by naming the two 2024 Gilmore Young Artists. Princeton University junior Kasey Shao and New York high school senior Harmony Zhu will each receive $15,000 to further their careers and education and $10,000 to commission a new piano composition. In addition, they will play solo recitals and concertos (with orchestra) during the 16th Gilmore International Piano Festival, April 24 through May 11, 2024, in Kalamazoo and throughout Southwest Michigan.

“There’s nothing I love more than hearing a stunned silence or scream of delight from a new Gilmore Young Artist,” van der Westhuizen says. “It’s among the best parts of my job. What’s mindboggling about these two young women is how devoted they are to other studies and interests while maintaining a high musical standard, which makes for a well-rounded artist. We are so gratified to welcome them to the family of Gilmore Young Artists and to Michigan for the 2024 Festival.”

Spotlighting greater Kalamazoo's arts community

2024 Gilmore Young Artists are Harmony Zhu, above, and Kasey Shao, at right.

Shervin Lainez

Born in 2004, Shao started playing piano at age 6 and made her concerto debut at age 12 with the Philadelphia Orchestra. This Steinway Young Artist and 2021 U.S. Presidential Scholar is concentrating in music and pre-med at Princeton, hoping to become a hand surgeon to help pianists maintain their ability to play. She has

won countless competitions, including the 2018 Steinway and Sons Piano Competition, performed across the country and been featured in the Philadelphia Inquirer, Cincinnati Business Inquirer, Oberlin Tribune and Cleveland Classical

Zhu, who attends New York City’s Brearley School, began piano study at The Juilliard School at age 8, was recognized as a Young Steinway Artist at 10 and made her debut at Carnegie Hall's Stern Auditorium at 14. She won the 2021 Young Concert Artists International Auditions and has been featured on National Public Radio’s From the Top and NBC's The Ellen DeGeneres Show and appeared as a soloist with the Philadelphia Orchestra, Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Israel Philharmonic and Orquesta Filarmónica de Medellín (Colombia).

Shao and Zhu join a group of 40 Gilmore Young Artists that includes Kirill Gerstein, Micah McLaurin and Yuja Wang. A conversation among the two young pianists and 1996 Gilmore Young Artist Orli Shaham can be found online at TheGilmore.org and on The Gilmore’s YouTube channel.

The other major award for the 2024 festival — the 2024 Gilmore Artist honor — will be announced Sept. 17 in a livestreamed event from Western Michigan University, where the winning pianist will play several classical selections. The ninth such artist and the first named since Germany’s Igor Levit in 2018 (no artist was announced for the 2020 or 2022 festivals due to the Covid-19 pandemic) will join a roster of Gilmore Artists that includes Piotr Anderszewski (Poland), Leif Ove Andsnes (Norway), Rafal Blechacz (Poland), Ingrid Fliter (Argentina), Kirill Gerstein (U.S.), Ralf Gothóni (Finland) and David Owen Norris (U.K.).

The lineup for the 2024 festival will be announced in November, with tickets available in December to the general public. For more information, visit thegilmore.org.

Yuxvan Zhen

TheArts

TheWizardofOz, EscapetoMargaritaville, Nunsense Barn Theatre

The Barn Theatre has three musical shows for audiences this month. The first, The Wizard of Oz , follows Dorothy on her adventures down the Yellow Brick Road as she tries to get back to Kansas. Show times are 8 p.m. Aug. 1–5 & 8–12 and 5 p.m. Aug. 6 & 13.

Island life and the carefree spirit of the beach will be featured in the theatre’s performance of EscapetoMargaritaville , a comedy featuring such Jimmy Buffett classics as “Margaritaville” and “Cheeseburger in Paradise.” Show times are 8 p.m. Aug. 15–19 & 22–26 and 5 p.m. Aug. 20 & 27.

Finishing out the month will be Nunsense , with antics and misadventures as the Little Sisters of Hoboken stage a variety show to raise money to bury their sisters who were accidentally poisoned by the convent cook. Show times are 8 p.m. Aug. 29–31 & Sept. 1 & 2 and 5 p.m. Sept. 3.

The Barn Theatre is located at 13351 West M-96, Augusta. Tickets are $43–$51. For more information or to purchase tickets, call 731-4121 or visit barntheatreschool.org.

Ongoing Production

She Persisted, The Musical

Through Aug. 6

Farmers Alley Theatre

VISUAL ARTS

Ongoing Exhibitions

Kalamazoo Institute of Arts:

Author Talks Various Times Various Venues

Authors of both fiction and nonfiction works will discuss their writing this month, some in person and some online:

Isabel Estrada O'Hagin will present a talk on her picture book, La Mariachi, at 5 p.m. Aug. 1 at This is a Bookstore, 3019 Oakland Drive. It’s about a young girl in the 1970s who wants to become a mariachi but is told only boys can be that kind of singer.

Robert Jones Jr. will discuss his award-winning novel and bestseller, The Prophets, online at 4 p.m. Aug. 15. To register, visit kpl.gov.

Writer Cassandra Clare will discuss her latest book, Chain of Thorns, online at 8 p.m. Aug. 23. To register, visit kpl.gov.

Jeff Selingo will give an online talk about his book, Who Gets In and Why: A Year Inside College Admissions, at 2 p.m. Aug. 30. To register, visit kpl.gov.

Clockwise from top left: Authors Isabel Estrada O'Hagin, Robert Jones Jr., Cassandra Clare and Jeff Selingo.

TheArts

SummertimeLiveConcerts

Various times

Various venues

August offers a calendar chock full of free outdoor concerts. Attendees are encouraged to bring their own blankets or chairs. The groups performing and the concert locations are:

• Joshua Tree, 3 p.m. Aug. 2, Richland Area Community Center, 9400 East CD Ave., Richland

• Zion Lion, 5 p.m. Aug. 2, Gilmore Car Museum, 6865 W. Hickory Road, Hickory Corners

• The Skeletones/Hurricane, 5:15 p.m. Aug. 2, 126 N. Kalamazoo Ave., downtown Vicksburg

• The Kalamazoo Kittens, 5:30 p.m. Aug. 2, Bates Alley (between Pitcher and Portage streets), downtown Kalamazoo

• The Kennedy Affair, 11:30 a.m. Aug. 4, Bronson Park

• Fake Baseball, 5:30 p.m. Aug. 4, State Theatre

• Kalamazoo Avenue Band, 6 p.m. Aug. 6, Flesher Field, 3664 Ninth St., Oshtemo Township

• The Bronk Bros, 6:30 p.m. Aug. 6, Kindleberger Park, 122 N. Riverview Drive, Parchment

• RetroVibe, 5 p.m. Aug. 9, Gilmore Car Museum

• Rusty and the Nails/Tom Askey — Old Hank’s Son, 5:15 p.m. Aug. 9, downtown Vicksburg

• Comedian Cam Honeyager/Pieter the Great/DJ Mel V, 5:30 p.m. Aug. 9, Bates Alley

• Rhythm Society Orchestra, 7 p.m. Aug. 10, Overlander Bandshell, 7810 Shaver Road, Portage

MUSIC

• Shelagh Brown Band, 11:30 a.m. Aug. 11, Bronson Park

• Samuel Nalangira Ensemble, 4 p.m. Aug. 13, Bronson Park

• Kaitlin Rose and the Thorns, 6:30 p.m. Aug. 13, Kindleberger Park

• LaSoulfulRock, 3 p.m. Aug. 16, Richland Area Community Center

• Thornapple Jazz Quartet, 5 p.m. Aug. 16, Gilmore Car Museum

• Three of a Kind/Greg Cordes, 5:15 p.m. Aug. 16, downtown Vicksburg

• UG Bino/Early N Da Mornin’/Courtney Moore/Jurell/DJ NoLimit, 5:30 p.m. Aug. 16, Bates Alley

• Youth and Teen Talent Show, 11:30 a.m. Aug. 18, Bronson Park

• Schlitz Creek Bluegrass Band, 4 p.m. Aug. 20, Texas Drive Park, 6603 Texas Drive, Texas Corners

• Gizzae, 6:30 p.m. Aug. 20, Kindleberger Park

• Michigan Freedom Rockers, 5 p.m. Aug. 23, Gilmore Car Museum

• Zion Lion, 5:30 p.m. Aug. 23, Bates Alley

• Ben Traverse, 11:30 a.m. Aug. 25, Bronson Park

• Dogpatch Lullaby/False Atlas, 4:30 p.m. Aug. 25, Celery Flats, 7328 Garden Lane, Portage

• Kalamazoo Scottish Festival, 6:30 p.m. Aug. 27, Kindleberger Park

• Hoot Owls, 5 p.m. Aug. 30, Gilmore Car Museum

• DJ Chuck with Native Child and more, 5:30 p.m. Aug. 30, Bates Alley

Shelagh Brown Band

Kaitlin Rose and the Thorns

The Bronk Bros

Fake Baseball Samuel Nalangira Ensemble

Hoot Owls

LaSoulfulRock Schlitz Creek Bluegrass Band

PERFORMING ARTS THEATER

Musicals

She Persisted, The Musical — Some of America’s most fearless women get the spotlight in this new musical, 7:30 p.m. July 29, Aug. 3–5, 2 p.m. July 30 & Aug. 6, Farmers Alley Theatre, 221 Farmers Alley, 343–2727, farmersalleytheatre.com.

The Wizard of Oz — The classic tale of Dorothy as she follows the Yellow Brick Road in search of the Wizard who can help her get home, 8 p.m. Aug. 1–5 & 8–12, 5 p.m. Aug. 6 & 8, Barn Theatre, 133351 W. M-96, Augusta, 731-4121, barntheatreschool.org.

Escape to Margaritaville — A musical journey and comedy that celebrates island life, featuring classic hits from Jimmy Buffett, 8 p.m. Aug. 15–19 & 22–26, 5 p.m. Aug. 20 & 27, Barn Theatre, 731-4121, barntheatreschool.org.

Nunsense — A night of comedy, dancing and music following the Little Sisters of Hoboken as they stage a variety show to raise money to bury a deceased Sister who was accidentally poisoned by the cook, 8 p.m. Aug. 29–Sept. 2, 5 p.m. Sept. 3, Barn Theatre, 731-4121, barntheatreschool.org.

MUSIC

Gun Lake Live Summer Series — Lakefront concerts at 6 p.m. Wednesdays, Lakefront Pavilion, Bay Pointe Inn, 11456 Marsh Road, Shelbyville: Rusty & The Razorblades, Aug. 2; Brena, Aug. 9; Nick Dekoff Band, Aug. 16; Heather Bartman Band, Aug. 23; Stone Soul Rhythm Band, Aug. 30; 888–486–5253.

Richland Summertime Live 2023 — Free concert series, 3–6 p.m., Richland Area Community Center, 9400 East CD Ave.: Joshua Tree, Aug. 2; LaSoulfulRock, Aug. 16.

Cruise-In Concerts — Live concerts, 5 p.m. Wednesdays, Gilmore Car Museum, 6865 Hickory Road, Hickory Corners: Zion Lion, Aug. 2; RetroVibe, Aug. 9; Thornapple Jazz Quartet, Aug. 16; Michigan Freedom Rockers, Aug. 23; Hoot Owls, Aug. 30; 671-5089, gilmorecarmuseum.org.

Burg Days of Summer — Live music, food trucks and activities, 5:30–8:30 p.m. Wednesdays, Main Street and Prairie Street, downtown Vicksburg: The Skeletones, DeHurricane, Aug. 2; Rusty & The Nails, Tom Askey — Old Hank’s Son, Aug. 9; 3 of a Kind, Greg Cordes, Aug. 16; downtown.vicksburgmi.org.

Beats on Bates — Entertainment under the lights of Bates Alley, 5:30–8:30 p.m. Wednesdays: The Kalamazoo Kittens, Aug. 2; Comedian Cam Honeyager, Pieter the Great, DJ Mel V, Aug. 9; UG Bino, Early N Da Mornin’, Courtney Moore, Jurell, DJ NoLimit, Aug. 16; Zion Lion, Aug. 23;

DJ Chuck with Native Child and more, Aug. 30, kalamazooarts.org/summertime-live.

Lunchtime Live! — Live music, games & food, 11:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m. Fridays, Bronson Park: The Kennedy Affair, Aug. 4; The Shelagh Brown Band, Aug. 11; Youth and Teen Talent Show, Aug. 18; Ben Traverse, Aug. 25; kalamazooarts.org/ summertime-live.

State on the Street — Live concert outside the State Theatre, 404 S. Burdick St.: Fake Baseball, art-pop band, Aug. 4; seating starts at 5 p.m., music at 5:30 p.m., kazoostate.com.

Bell’s Eccentric Cafe Concerts — Katy Kirby with Lutalo, Aug. 4; The Spits w/Timmy’s Organism, Silicon Heartbeat, Aug. 5; JD McPherson w/Yohei, Aug. 8; Yonder Mountain String Band, Railroad Earth, Leftover Salmon, Aug. 9; Moon Orchids, Wowza In Kalamazoo, Paul Fake, Aug. 10; Joshua Powell, BoneHawk, Aug. 11; Basic Comfort w/ Finkel, Headband Henny, Aug. 12; Sister Hazel, Aug. 18; The Beths w/Disq, Aug. 22; The Baseball Project, Aug. 25; The Righteous Babes, Aug. 26; Magic City Hippies w/Pink Skies, Aug. 29; Murder By Death w/Laura Jane Grace, Aug. 30;

all shows begin at 8 p.m., 355 E. Kalamazoo Ave., 382–2332, bellsbeer.com.

Oshtemo Summertime Music in the Park — Kalamazoo Avenue Band plays classic rock, 6–7:30 p.m. Aug. 6, Flesher Field, 3664 S. Ninth St., oshtemo.org/events.

Kindleberger Summertime Concerts — Bronk Bros, Aug. 6; Kaitlin Rose & The Band of Thorns, Aug. 13; Gizzae, Aug. 20; all shows begin at 6:30 p.m., Kindleberger Park Stage, Parchment, kindlebergerarts.org.

Portage Summer Concert Series — Rhythm Society Orchestra, 7 p.m. Aug. 10, Overlander Bandshell, 7810 Shaver Road, portagemi.gov/ calendar; bring a blanket or chair.

Concerts in the Park — Samuel Nalangira Ensemble, 4 p.m. Aug. 13, Bronson Park (no rain location), kalamazooarts.org/summertime-live.

The Avett Brothers — Americana band, 7:30 p.m. Aug. 11, Wings Event Center, 3600 Vanrick Drive, wingseventcenter.com/Events.

Concert in the Corners — Schlitz Creek Bluegrass Band, 4–6 p.m. Aug. 20, Texas Drive Park, 6603 Texas Drive, texastownship.org.

Crescendo Academy of Music Fiddle

Jam — 6:30–8 p.m. Aug. 24, Kalamazoo College, crescendoacademy.com.

Friday at the Flats — Live music and food trucks, 4:30–8:30 p.m. Aug. 25, Celery Flats Pavilion, 7335 Garden Lane, portagemi.gov/calendar.

COMEDY

Hot and Delicious Improv Show — 8–10 p.m. Aug. 25, Dormouse Theatre 1030 Portage St., dormousetheatre.com.

FILMS

Vicksburg Movie Night in the Park Familyfriendly events at 8 p.m., movies at 9:30 p.m.: Haunted Mansion, Aug. 4; Moana, Aug. 18; Vicksburg Pavilion, 300 N. Richardson, vicksburgmi. org.; bring a blanket or chair and snacks.

Kzoo Parks Summer Cinema — Family-friendly activities and free outdoor movies, 6-10 p.m.: U-Pick the Flick, Aug. 11, Spring Valley Park, 2600 Mt. Olivet Road.; Inside Out, with face painting, Aug. 25, Frays Park, 4400 Canterbury Ave.; kzooparks.org/summercinema.

Encanto — Portage’s Movies in the Park feature begins after sunset (approximately 9 p.m.) Aug. 25, Celery Flats Historical Area, 7335 Garden Lane; bring a blanket or chair and snacks; portagemi. gov/calendar.

VISUAL ARTS

Kalamazoo Institute of Arts

314 S. Park St., 349-7775, kiarts.org

Exhibitions

West Michigan Area Show — Juried exhibition in a variety of media by artists from a 14-county region of western Michigan, through Aug. 27.

Sugoi!200YearsofJapaneseArt — Celebrating the artists and art practices of East Asia, through Sept. 3.

Unveiling American Genius — Abstract & contemporary works emphasizing stories told by African American, Latino & other artists, through Dec. 31.

LIBRARY & LITERARY EVENTS

Comstock Township Library 6130 King Highway, 345-0136, comstocklibrary.org

Summer Reading Program — Read books, complete library challenges & win prizes, infants to adults, through Aug. 31.

Book Tasting — Explore different genres of books to decide your next read, with light refreshments served, 6–7:30 p.m. Aug. 30; registration required.

Adult Book Club — Discussion of Our Best Intentions, by Vibhuti Jain, 6–7:30 p.m. Aug. 31; registration required.

Kalamazoo Public Library

553-7800, kpl.gov

Yoga in the Park — All-ages and skill levels welcome: 3:30 p.m. Aug. 4, front lawn, Washington Square Branch, 1244 Portage St.; 4:30 p.m. Aug. 17, La Crone Park, 535 W. Paterson St., with rain location of Barnabee Gallery at Alma Powell Branch, 1000 W. Paterson St.; bring your own mat.

Kalamazoo Puzzle Swap — Swap puzzles and enjoy snacks, raffle and more, 1–3 p.m. Aug. 5, Oshtemo Branch, 7265 W. Main St.; bring only gently used puzzles with all of the pieces.

Movie Mondays — Enjoy snacks, crafts and a movie, 1:30–3:30 p.m. Mondays, through August, Eastwood Branch, 112 Gayle Ave.

KPL Mobile Library — 3:30–5 p.m. Aug. 7, New Village Park/Heather Gardens, 2400 Albans Way; 4–5:30 p.m. Aug. 15, Park Street Market, 512 N. Park St.; 5–7 p.m. Aug. 16, Kalamazoo Literacy Council, 420 E. Alcott St., with multi-generational activities; 11 a.m.–noon Aug. 17, Ecumenical Senior Center, 702 N. Burdick St.; 10–11 a.m. Aug. 22, Lodge House, 1211 S. Westnedge Ave.; 3–4 p.m. Aug. 22, Maple Grove Village, 735 Summit Ave.

Kids Market at Kalamazoo Farmers Market —

Home-grown, handmade & repurposed items made by youth 17 and under, with KPL Mobile Library, live music and more during regular Tuesday Market, 10 a.m.–1 p.m. Aug. 8, 1204 Bank St.

Page Turners Book Club Discussion of The Man Who Could Move Clouds, by Ingrid Rojas Contreras, 6:30–7:30 p.m. Aug. 8, Oshtemo Branch, in-person and online; registration required.

Coffee Talk — "What Happens to Gas Stations When the World Goes Electric?” talk by Emily Grubert, 10:30–11:30 a.m. Aug. 9, Oshtemo Branch.

John Ball Traveling Zoo — An up-close encounter with zoo animals, 2–3 p.m. Aug. 9, Van Deusen Room, Central Library, 315 S. Rose St.; registration required.

Rose Street Poetry Club — A monthly adult program to share in the reading and writing of poetry, 10–11 a.m. Aug. 12, Central Library.

Author Talk: Robert Jones Jr. — An online talk by the author of The Prophets, 4–5 p.m. Aug. 15, kpl.gov/live; registration required.

Chalk It Out! — Express yourself with sidewalk chalk in front of the library, 11 a.m.–1 p.m. Aug. 19, Central Library Portico.

Author Talk: Cassandra Clare — An online talk by the author of Chain of Thorns, from The Last Hours Series, 8–9 p.m. Aug. 23, kpl.gov/live; registration required.

Author Talk: Jeffrey Selingo — An online talk by the author of Who Gets In and Why: A Year Inside College Admissions, 2–3 p.m. Aug. 30, kpl.gov/live; registration required.

Dungeons and Dragons Game Night — Play a game with other adults, from beginner to experienced levels, 5:30–7:30 p.m. Aug. 30,

Washington Square Branch; registration required.

Parchment Community Library

401 S. Riverview Drive, 343-7747, parchmentlibrary.org

Observing the Sun – Observe the sun safely with members of the Kalamazoo Astronomical Society, 11:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m. Aug. 12.

Parchment Book Group – Discussion of The Souls of Black Folk, by W.E.B. DuBois, 6 p.m. Aug. 14.

Mystery Book Club Agatha Christie Series –Discussion of Murder in Retrospect, 6:30 p.m. Aug. 15.

Portage District Library

300 Library Lane, 329-4544, portagelibrary.info

Friends of the Library Book Sale — 9 a.m.–3 p.m. Aug. 5, with members only pre-sale 4–5:30 p.m. Aug. 4.

Great Crossings: A Presentation of Sailing Adventures — Presented by author, speaker and traveler Robert Weir, 7 p.m. Aug. 17.

Kalamazoo Macintosh Users Group — Get help with Macintosh programs and accessories, 9 a.m.–noon Aug. 19.

Recipe Swap: Fall Favorites — Bring three copies each of three favorite fall dishes, 7–8 p.m. Aug. 21; registration required.

Sundaes and Sharing — Make a sundae and enjoy a story about culture and customs told by Madalene Big Bear from the Pokagon Band of the Potawatomi, 7 p.m. Aug. 23; registration required.

Pub(lic) Library Trivia — Pub-style trivia, 6:30 p.m. Aug. 24; registration required.

Kalamazoo Plant It Forward August Swap — Join indoor and outdoor plant lovers for a plant swap social event, 10 a.m.–noon Aug. 26; registration required.

Richland Community Library

8951 Park St., 629-9085, richlandlibrary.org

Bridge Club — Noon Tuesdays.

Richland Area Writer’s Group — 10 a.m.–noon Aug. 12.

Richland Genealogy Group — Roundtable discussion group open to new members, 10 a.m.–noon Aug. 17, in person and via Zoom.

Vicksburg District Library

215 S. Michigan Ave, 649-1648, vicksburglibrary.org

Dungeons & Dragons for Adults 5:30–8 p.m. Aug. 2 & 16.

Book Club for Adults 9:30–10:30 a.m. Aug. 3.

Writers’ Accountability Group Report progress, set goals, share resources and advice, and brainstorm projects, 6:30–7:30 p.m. Aug. 9.

Trivia for Adults/Seniors 2–4 p.m. Aug. 11.

Speculative Fiction Book Club Science fiction, fantasy and horror books, 4:30–5:30 p.m. Aug. 17.

All-Ages Talent Show 2–4 p.m. Aug. 19; registration required.

Comedy Movie Club Watch Ghostbusters: Afterlife, with popcorn and drinks, 4–6 p.m. Aug. 23; adults only.

Movie Club for Adults Watch Me Before You, with refreshments served, 1–3 p.m. Aug. 28.

MUSEUMS

Air Zoo

6151 Portage Road, Portage, 382-6555, airzoo.org

DCSuperHeroes:DiscoverYourSuperpowers — Interactive traveling exhibit focusing on DC’s Justice League members, including Batman, Superman and Wonder Woman, through August.

Fly-In of Visiting Plane and Rides Historic aircraft Rosie’s Reply will be visiting and available for ticketed rides at 10 a.m., 11 a.m. & noon Aug. 19; tickets can be purchased in advance on the Air Zoo’s website.

Summer STEAM Days Free outdoor community events with hands-on science stations

staffed by local businesses and educators, 11 a.m. Aug. 19.

Gilmore Car Museum

6865 Hickory Road, Hickory Corners, 671-5089, gilmorecarmuseum.org

Wednesday Night Cruise–Ins — Collector cars, oldies music & food, 5–8 p.m. Wednesdays on good-weather nights, through September.

Red Barns Spectacular Antique, classic and special-interest car shows open to vehicles 25 years old and older, 9 a.m.–4 p.m. Aug. 5.

Lincoln Homecoming Weekend Celebrating the 100th anniversary of the Lincoln Motor Co., 9 a.m.–1 p.m. Aug. 11–12.

Relix Riot Traditional hot rods, custom cars and motorcycles, 9 a.m.–4 p.m. Aug. 19.

Pierce-Arrow Gathering Showcasing the luxury cars built in Buffalo, New York, from 1901–1938, 10 a.m.–3 p.m. Aug. 27.

Kalamazoo Valley Museum 230 N. Rose St., 373-7990, kalamazoomuseum.org

Events

Rain Garden Tours Showcasing rain gardens, storm sewers and native plants, 10:30 a.m. & 1:30 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays, through August.

Pink Floyd’s Wish You Were Here — With fulldome music and video light effects, 3:30 p.m. Saturdays, through August, KVM Planetarium. Exhibition

Wonder Media: Ask the Questions! — Test your media literacy skills and learn to discern misinformation & disinformation in the media, through 2023.

NATURE

Kalamazoo Nature Center

7000 N. Westnedge Ave., 381-1574, naturecenter.org

Great Blazes! — Look at a special type of wetland on the Habitat Haven Trail with a conservation educator, 1–3 p.m. Aug. 5.

Creative Wilderness: Artists & Authors — A guest artist or author shares work and guides art making, 1–3 p.m. Aug. 10.

Garden to Table — Learn basic canning, drying & freezing techniques, 10–11:30 a.m. Aug. 12, DeLano Homestead, 555 West E Ave.; registration required.

Blue Moon Benefit Gala — Enjoy a three-course dinner under a blue moon, with live auction, 5:30–7:30 p.m. Aug. 24; registration required.

Creatures and Conservation — Meet an ambassador animal & discuss conservation, 5:30–6:30 p.m. Aug. 24.

Other Venues

Geo Mystery Tour: Bug Safari — A geocaching adventure in the Portage Parks System, Aug. 1–31, register at mypark.portagemi.gov and click Recreation Activities & Facility Rentals.

Corks and Kegs at the Zoo — Local and national beers and wines, food trucks and chefprepared meals from the zoo restaurants, 3–8 p.m. Aug. 5, with VIP access 2–5 p.m., Binder Park Zoo, 7400 Division Drive, Battle Creek, 9791351, binderparkzoo.org.

Ramona Beach Bonfire — Live music and s’mores materials provided, 7 p.m. Aug. 12, Ramona Park, 8600 S. Sprinkle Road, portagemi.gov/calendar.

Kalamazoo Astronomical Society Public Observing Session Perseid Meteor Shower, extended viewing time, no special equipment needed, 9 p.m.–3 a.m. Aug. 12; The Moon & Saturn, 9 p.m.–1 a.m. Aug. 26; both at Kalamazoo Nature Center, 7000 N. Westnedge Ave., kasonline.org.

Wild Wetlands: The Secret Life of Bogs — Exhibition exploring how fens & bogs combat climate change, 8 a.m.–5 p.m. Monday–Friday, through Sept. 5, Portage City Hall Atrium, 7900 S. Westnedge Ave., portagemi.gov/calendar.

MISCELLANEOUS

Kalamazoo Farmers Market — 8 a.m.–1 p.m. Tuesdays & Thursdays, 7 a.m.–2 p.m. Saturdays, through October; Night Market, 5–10 p.m. Aug. 18 & Sept. 15; 1204 Bank St.; pfcmarkets.com.

Kalamazoo Food Truck Rallies — 5–7:30 p.m. Aug. 1, Water Street, downtown Kalamazoo; 5–7:30 p.m. Aug. 8, The Mill, Vicksburg; 5–7:30 p.m. Aug. 15, Fannie Pell Park, Plainwell; 5–10 p.m. Aug. 18, Blues Fest at Arcadia Creek Festival Place, downtown Kalamazoo; 5–7:30 p.m. Aug. 22, Warner Vineyards, Paw Paw; foodtruckrallykz.com.

Richland Farmers’ Market — Local produce, artisans, artists and food trucks, 3–6 p.m. Wednesdays, through Sept. 13, Richland Community Center, 9400 East CD Ave., Richland, richlandareacc.org.

Yoga in the Park — All ages welcome, 3–4 p.m. Aug. 2, Richland Village Square; bring a mat.

Dog Days of Summer at Bell’s — Dog-friendly days at Bell’s Beer Garden supporting the Animal Rescue Project, with puppy kissing booth, dog treats and special menu, 3–10 p.m. Aug. 2 & Sept. 6, 355 E. Kalamazoo Ave., 382–2332, bellsbeer. com; dogs must use special entrance.

Parade of Homes — In-person and virtual tours of newly constructed and remodeled homes, Aug. 3–5 & Aug. 10–12, kalamazoohomepage.com/ paradeofhomes.

Bell’s IPA Day Celebration — Exclusive beer

releases, live music, 11 a.m.–midnight Aug. 3, Bell’s Eccentric Café, 355 E. Kalamazoo Ave., 382–2332, bellsbeer.com.

Vicksburg Farmers Market — 2–6 p.m. Fridays, through Sept. 29, 300 N. Richardson St., Vicksburg, vicksburgfarmersmarket.com.

Historic Walks — Walks discussing local history and architecture: Downtown Historical Markers, begins at Gazelle Sports, 8–9:30 a.m. Aug. 4; Vine Historic District, meets at Pearl & West Dutton streets, 6:30–8 p.m. Aug. 10; Riverside Cemetery, meets at Gull Road and Riverview Drive, 6:30–8 p.m. Aug. 24; Oakland Drive/Winchell Neighborhoods, meets at Winchell Avenue and Aberdeen Drive, 8–9:30 a.m. Aug. 25; gazellesports. com/pages/kalamazoo-historic-walks.

Kalamazoo Rib Fest — Food, entertainment and music, 11 a.m.–10 p.m. Aug. 4 & 5, Arcadia Creek Festival Place, 145 E. Water St., kalamazooribfest. com.

Summer Park Party — With foam (hypo–allergenic and safe for kids), music, games and food, 1–3 p.m. Aug. 5, Merrill Park, 5845 Comstock Ave.

A Walking Tour of Downtown Kalamazoo Breweries — 1–4 p.m. Aug. 4, 12, 19 & 26; 350–4598, westmibeertours.com.

Portage Farmers Market — 9 a.m.–1 p.m. Sundays, through October, Portage City Hall, 7900 S. Westnedge Ave., 329-4522.

Kalamazoo County Youth Fair & Family Festival — Farm animals, educational displays, 4-H exhibits, horse shows, dog show, livestock auction, magic shows, food and more, Aug. 8–12, Kalamazoo County Expo Center & Fairground, 2900 Lake St., 383–8778, kalamazoocountyfair. com.

Kalamazoo Balloon Fest — Hot-air balloons, with entertainment and family activities, Aug. 11–13, Gull Meadow Farms, 8544 Gull Road, gullmeadowfarms.com.

Vintage in the Zoo — Outdoor vintage market & handmade goods, noon–7 p.m. Aug. 12, KVCC’s Anna Whitten Hall, 202 N. Rose St., vintageinthezoo.com.

Kalamazoo Blues Fest — Live music, food and vendor booths, 5–10 p.m. Aug. 18, Arcadia Creek Festival Place, foodtruckrallykz.com.

Sunflower Days — Walk through five acres of sunflowers, with family activities and wagon rides through the woods, Aug. 18–20 & Aug. 25–27, Gull Meadow Farms, gullmeadowfarms.com.

Kalamazoo Reptile & Exotic Pet Expo — Reptiles, amphibians, small mammals and other exotic pets, plus supplies & food, 10 a.m.–3 p.m. Aug. 19, Kalamazoo County Expo Center South, 2900 Lake St., kalamazooreptileexpo.com.

Kalamazoo Black Business Expo — Showcasing black entrepreneurs, 1–5 p.m. Aug. 26, Kalamazoo County Expo Center South, blackwallstreetkalamazoo.org.

The Scent of Heaven

To Annie

This is a new landscape for me, this stretch of sand, this water bowl as big as the sky. My person unleashes me and I run free, nostrils flaring, scooping an aroma that accelerates my legs to the speed of smell.

And despite the fact that my person calls Annie come, I’m on to something big that trumps all human commands. All 220 million of my olfactory receptors shout in unison: This way to Glory Land!

My tongue wags, my mouth froths, my heart drums, my paws pound in a rapid crescendo as my nose pulls me into uncharted dimensions, toward a sublime bouquet for which a dog would die. A cloud of gulls rises up screeching and speeds away as I plunder their booty, plunging my body into the carcass of an enormous fully ripened carp. Carpe diem!

WHAT’S

Summertime

With flies, maggots and beetles, I writhe in ecstasy, coating every fur follicle in oil de rancid. I shove my snout into pure aroma, beyond stench and slime, then zoom through galaxies of fish-scale stars and fish-eye moons, with multitudes of snouted heavenly hosts howling: Halleluuuuuujah! I am one with God.

— Sharon Sargent Eckstein

Eckstein lives near Lawton with her husband, Brian, Gustave the dog and Fiona the cat. The couple adopted Annie, a golden retriever/Rottweiler mix, in 2003 from Kalamazoo Animal Rescue. Eckstein describes her as a fearless dog who charged a raging stallion and a black bear to protect her. She also loved cats and kids. The carp episode in this poem is true, Eckstein says. Annie died at 13.

free SUMMER concerts ARE BACK!

The Arts Council of Greater Kalamazoo is collaborating with the cities of Parchment, Portage, Oshtemo Township, Richland Township, Vicksburg and Kalamazoo, as well as numerous venues, artists, and the Irving S. Gilmore Foundation to bring you the 2023 Summertime Live concert series. This year’s series is bigger and better than ever, with:

1 3 venues & 115 free concerts!

All types of musical genres are represented, so there’s something for everyone. Best of all, each concert is FREE of charge so bring your family and friends to soak up some soul-soothing live music this summer!

For full schedule, visit: KalamazooArts.org/Summertime-Live/

Eric Achtyes (continued from page 34)

to help other aspiring doctors find their way into the field at a time when they are sorely needed. Psychiatrists are an essential part of the mental-health workforce. Unlike psychologists, psychiatrists are medical doctors, which means they have expertise in both mental and physical health and the intersection between the two. Psychiatrists also are licensed to prescribe psychotropic drugs, which most other mental-health professionals cannot do.

There already is a nationwide shortage of psychiatrists, the result of growing demand amid shrinking numbers of doctors as Baby Boomers retire, and that shortage is expected to grow. The American Association of Medical Colleges estimates that in just a few years the U.S. will be short between 14,000 and 31,000 psychiatrists.

"We're not going to train our way out of that,” Achtyes says. “We have to think about creative, creative approaches. We want people to be able to get treatment for mental health conditions in the same way that they do for physical health conditions."

What is your biggest challenge in this role?

It is workforce and competing with other markets to attract talent. Coming out of the pandemic, the entire health care system is strained. A lot of focus was on the medical system, and people were really tired after the pandemic. We saw a number of people take early retirement and decide that it was time to end their work. It's going to be really hard for us to replace those people and to compete with other markets that are trying to recruit the same talent that we are.

Also, any time you have a large traumatic event, whether it's a pandemic, a war or a natural disaster, there's the event and then following that event is a much longer mental health shadow. Those in mental health care are going to be continuing to help people who developed depression, anxiety disorders or addictions during the pandemic for years after much of the rest of society has gotten back to whatever the new normal looks like. The mental health workforce is going to continue to be challenged for months and years to come.

Is there a solution for that?

We have to develop new strategies because only a tiny fraction of people with mental health conditions in the United States ever see a psychiatrist. There just aren't enough psychiatrists in the pipeline so that everybody who needs to can see a psychiatrist.

We need new models of care, and some of that is team-based care. Much of the time, a primary-care doctor can treat anxiety and depression for patients in their practice. But if they've tried a couple different medications or counseling and things aren't getting better for that individual, they could refer them to psychiatry, but there's limited access because we don't have enough psychiatrists, or they can work through a collaborativecare relationship. The collaborative-care model is incredibly important for providing access and to leverage expertise and get it to more people.

A few years ago, WMed started the Kalamazoo Collaborative Care project, where the expertise of a single psychiatrist is leveraged to affect patients within primarycare practices. One of our psychiatrists will meet with members of treatment teams from primary-care practices and review cases and say, “OK, you've tried these two medications and you've tried this therapy, the next step in care that I would recommend is to try this option.” Then the primary-care doctor can implement those. Many people are understandably more comfortable staying with their primary-care doctor, who they've known for years and have a relationship with, to try to address some of those symptoms.

With just an afternoon every other week of psychiatric expertise, the doctors can spread that expertise to hundreds and even thousands of patients within a practice. Research shows that there are more students applying for psychiatric medical programs than before. So why aren't there more psychiatrists coming through the pipeline?

We need more residency slots. Many residency slots are funded through the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), and when a hospital develops a

residency program, it gets one shot to say how many residents it will have in each specialty. If the community grows or the need grows, the hospital can't go back and get more CMS-funded residencies. Our program at WMed, which has been around for a long time, only has four CMS-funded slots per year. The only way that we can increase that allocation is if a hospital that doesn't have a residency training program opens one and they establish a new residency cap for that hospital.

We do have some opportunities coming up here. The Bronson Behavioral Health Hospital, opening in Battle Creek, will have the opportunity to set a new cap, which we could do in collaboration with them. The same is true for the new NeuroPsychiatric Hospital (a new 64-bed facility under construction in Texas Township). If they choose to establish a residency training program, they can apply for CMS funding to support those residency slots.

There are endless debates about how CMS funding works. We've built new medical schools to graduate more doctors, but we need to expand the residency slots to accommodate those students that are graduating. And we need Congress to act to do that. Is there really a strong rationale that only brand-new hospitals should be able to grow their residency programs? If there's an established program that's already teaching and training, adding a couple more residency slots to that program makes a lot more sense, but we have to have the political will to do that.

This story is part of the Mental Wellness Project, a solutions-oriented journalism initiative covering mental health issues in Southwest Michigan, created by the Southwest Michigan Journalism Collaborative. SWMJC is a group of 12 regional organizations dedicated to strengthening local journalism. For more information, visit swmichjournalism.com.

— Interview by Marie Lee, edited for length and clarity

Eric Achtyes Chair, WMed Department of Psychiatry

As a medical student, Eric Achtyes really didn't know what field he should specialize in. But after a six-week rotation in psychiatric medicine, he knew.

"In that period, I got to experience an inpatient unit and see some patients in a partial hospitalization program. I got to see outpatients and spend a week at an addictions hospital. I remember going to all of those different areas and thinking, 'Wow, I could really do this someday,'" the 48-year-old says. "I would say psychiatry found me, not the other way around. I was just blown away by the opportunity to help people in that way."

Now, as the chair of the Department of Psychiatry at the Western Michigan University Homer Stryker

M.D. School of Medicine

(WMed), Achtyes hopes

(continued on page 33)

(continued on page 37)

Van Andel Institute