August 2020
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GOOD NEWS
AUGUST 2020
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August 2020
GOOD NEWS
RememberWhen
TOPP’S Topp’s Discount City Department Store opened its 28th location in Kalamazoo on September 27, 1961 at the corner 4445 S. Westnedge Ave. at Kilgore Rd. This self-serve super bargain center marketed national brand merchandise at lower prices. Boasted as having more than 100 complete departments under its 80,000 square foot roof, which included: clothing for men, women & children, shoes for entire family, domestics and draperies, hardware, paint, wallpaper, accessories, housewares, stationery, greeting cards, records, drugs, jewelry, toys, games and sporting goods. A snack bar was also located at the front of the store. Kalamazoo was also the first Topps location to carry a full line of drugs, including vitamins, and a registered pharmacist on duty Topp’s was known for their big modern buildings, wide isles, shopping carts, checkout counters, air conditioning and the convenient 1,000-car parking lot. The Kalamazoo store was identifiable by the large arched entryway. The headquarters for Topp’s was located in New England and the first store opened in Hartford, Connecticut in 1957. They also had stores in Chicago, Albany NY, Massachusetts, Ohio, Pennsylvania and Louisville KY, prior to the opening of the Kalamazoo location. The Kalamazoo grand opening was one of the largest in the chains history said Frank Beckerman, Topp’s founder. Crowds lined up outside the store and thousands jammed into the new store. The cutting of what is probably the worlds most widely traveled 7-foot piece of red satin ribbon highlighted the celebration. It was snipped for the first time at the opening of the first Topps store in Hartford, Conn. 5 years previously. It logged more than 63 hours and 2,310 miles of airplane time traveling over
29 states to officiate at the opening of all 27 Topps stores. Topps President Frank Beckerman considered the ribbon an important “lucky charm” to bring good fortune and insisted that it be used at the opening of each store. One local contributor on the Vanished Kalamazoo website fondly recalled the grand opening, “I remember my family lived over off Gull Rd. and my dad piled us all into the
car to follow an advertising beam in the sky. When we finally found it, it was Topps opening. Those were the days. The opening of Topp’s in Kalamazoo coincided with an announcement that Montgomery Ward & Co. planned to merge with Topps parent firm, Interstate Department Stores, Incorporated. Montgomery Ward operated a Kalamazoo department
store at 239 S. Burdick Street. The merger of Interstate with Montgomery Ward created a retailing empire. Sales were approximately $1.34 billion annually and assets of $768,826,000. Sears Roebuck & Co. would still remain the nations largest mail order house at that time with sales of $4.13 billion and assets of $4.20 billion (according to an article in the Kalamazoo Gazette dated 9/27/61). Other fond memories of Topp’s, shared on the popular Vanished Kalamazoo Facebook page include: “I loved going shopping there. They had a 1-cent rocket ride in the front of the store - as a kid you really thought you that was big.” “I got my first pair of bell-bottom pants from Topps.” “Mom and I would make a special trip to go to Topps. Loved that store.” Topp’s was the first place I had a cherry Coke!!! And the first time I bought my mom a glass figurine! “Topp’s is where I bought my records.” Topp’s was very popular for the 16 years they were in business before Stark’s took over the space in 1977 followed by Big Lots - only the third tenant to occupy that space in more than 50 years; they all offered a similar selection of discounted merchandise. In March 2019 Big Lots Moved to the former Toys R’ Us location. Ollie’s Bargain Warehouse is slated to take over this historic space soon, offering a wide range of closeout merchandise, including food, housewares & toys. Jackie Merriam Black & white images from the John Todd Collection of the Portage District library. Color photo courtesy of pleasantfamilyshopping.blogspot.com
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August 2020
GOOD NEWS
Protecting Trees From Drought Stress Summer can be the most stressful time of year for landscape plants with heat and drought being the main offenders. When not receiving sufficient moisture, plants are much more susceptible to insect and disease damage. Trees are the most valuable landscape plants and can be the most difficult to replace, so it is sensible that they should be given priority during periods of drought.
Identify Drought Trouble
Lack of water is not a clear indication of a drought when it comes to trees. Many trees have deep, active roots that can easily survive short periods without rain or moisture, but it is important to notice when they are starting to become drought-stressed. Wilting and curling leaves will appear on drought-stressed deciduous trees. Leaf edges will eventually turn brown and crispy and may drop prematurely. Evergreen needles will begin to turn brown at the tips. As
the drought continues, the entire needle will turn brown.
Prioritize Which Trees to Help
Generally, the trees most at risk are those that are newly planted or transplanted, as well as any younger trees. The root system of these plants is underdeveloped or has been damaged by the planting. Trees that are growing in a restricted area should also be of greater concern. This includes trees planted in containers, the narrow grass strip between the street and sidewalk and trees grown adjacent to your house or driveway where they suffer more from reflected heat and have less underground space to spread their roots to collect sufficient moisture. Drought-sensitive plants like birches, beeches, dogwoods, Japanese maples and magnolias should also be given priority during drought conditions.
Watering During
ing Bear Dunes, which gets its name from a Chippewa legend. As the legend goes…. long ago there was a great famine had spread over the land. A mother bear and two famished cubs walked the shore on the Wisconsin side, gazing wistfully across the great lake at Michigan, the land of plenty. Finally their hunger overcame their timidness and the bears tried to swim to Michigan. As they got closer to the Michigan shore, the mother’s words of encouragement urged on the weary cubs. When only twelve miles from the land of plenty, the mother’s heart sank as she saw a I love stumbling upon interesting tidbits baby sink and drown. With the remaining of information that pique my interest to investigate and share with Good News Paper cub she struggled to reach the beach. Two miles of slow dragging and the second of her readers. One such tidbit is the legend of the Sleep- beloved cubs also perished. The mother reached the beach, alone,
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a Drought
It is best to begin good watering practices before the tree succumbs to drought stress. Trees need approximately one inch of water per week. If they aren’t getting enough rain, then you should supply the water. It is best for the tree if the required water is applied all at one time to the soil, slowly and deeply. This can be accomplished by using irrigation bags on newly planted or small trees. Trees in a restricted area are best watered with a slow dripping hose placed at the base of the tree and moved frequently for even distribution. For larger trees, a soaker hose laid in a spiral pattern, radiating from the tree trunk out to the drip line, works well.
Tips for Helping Drought-Stressed Trees
Always water the soil and not the leaves or needles of the tree. 2-4 inches of mulch placed over the
soil, under the tree, from the trunk to just beyond the drip line, will help conserve soil moisture. Do not mound mulch against the tree trunk, which can encourage insects. Water on overcast days, early in the morning or in the evening. Evaporation is slower during these times and more water will soak down to the roots. Fertilizer can injure tree roots during times of limited soil moisture. Avoid using fertilizer during drought conditions. If amendments are necessary, choose compost or other gentle options. You can help your trees resist drought conditions with a little thoughtful care, and they will continue to thrive to help provide shade and beauty in your landscape. Terrie Schwartz Wedel’s Nursery, Florist & Garden Center
and crept to a resting place where she lay down facing the restless waters that covered her lost ones. As she gazed, two beautiful islands slowly rose to mark the graves of the cubs. The Great Spirit Manitou created two islands (North and South Manitou Islands) to mark the spot where the cubs disappeared and then created a solitary dune to represent the faithful mother bear that shows a resemblance to a sleeping bear. Today, the resemblance is less obvious because the vegetation has changed and trees have grown to block the view from some angles, but the Sleeping Bear Dune legend remains. Jackie Merriam Information courtesy of geo.msu.edu
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August 2020
GOOD NEWS
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August 2020
GOOD NEWS
In Search of our Super-Powers A Mother and Daughter Adventure Series
Talking with Bees Jane: Today, a bee landed on my wrist and I said to him, “Well, well, it’s good to see you! How are you doing, buddy? I hear things aren’t so great in the bee world.” Then the little bugger stung me. While I was icing the swelling lump, it occurred to me that I haven’t been stung in over thirty years. And the other thing that hasn’t happened to me in three decades is a case of poison ivy, which is currently burning nicely on my other wrist. My life is slowly transitioning back to the
style prevalent in my young mothering years. I’m outside half the day tending my vegetable garden, watering the trees, and talking across the driveway and the street with my neighbors. SPF 30 sunscreen is my new friend. Keeping hydrated doesn’t need to be intentional anymore because I am always thirsty from gardening. I like my new normal. Nothing needs to be done in a hurry anymore. Not only do I seldom look at a clock, but the calendar can go a
week before I notice the month has changed. Things aren’t so great in the bee world and they aren’t so great in the human world, but the world transition we are riding is taking me to a place where I talk to plants and creatures and neighbors and friends. I’m okay with that. Ellen: This year we bought an inflatable kiddie pool for the backyard. It’s about 6 ½ feet long and when it’s full there is room for two adults to stretch out (no diving, as the package warned us). It offers all the best parts of the beach (water, relaxation) without the annoyances (seagulls, sand in the swimsuit). We’ve used our backyard over the years, but perhaps never to its current extent. Suddenly we are hyper aware of the little animals who frequent our neighborhood, we know why the shade plants aren’t doing so well in the left front corner of the garden (surprise morning sunlight hours through the oak tree branches), and we’re grateful for our neighbors on a new level (only people we see regularly, even if it’s just from the porch). I’m both hyper aware of the wider world and more focused on the small area around me. I’ve always seen summer as the season of travel, parties, and people, so to have 2020 turn all of that on its head has been
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a learning experience. I’m reading more, watching TV less. I’m cooking more and getting over my brunch dependency. I’m still enjoying the best parts of summer, now defined as being outside in nature and spending time with the most important people (even though that’s largely over video call). My love for fresh seasonal fruits and veggies is heightened, my need for carnivals and concerts is lessened somewhat (though I cannot WAIT to get back to live music). I suppose I am learning that everything has its season. And summer 2020 is a season unto itself. Jane & Ellen Knuth
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August 2020
GOOD NEWS
ARTIST Alric Evans
While out on a bike ride in my neighborhood with my grandsons, they noticed a new trail and immediately stopped to check it out. This nature trail we stumbled upon offered many exciting surprises. When my neighbor Alric (Ric) Evans retired in April, he began creating a neighborhood space and trail to promote peace and reflection for everyone to enjoy. The trail offers the opportunity to enjoy weaving some long grass into a loom, make music on a series of bamboo chimes, read on a beautiful hand crafted bench next to the neighborhood book exchange box, listen to the birds and watch them play in the bird bath, climb into a teepee covered in vines, play a round of checkers or chess on a game table made of solid cherry or simply enjoy nature’s sights and sounds. Neighbors are encouraged to add their own touches to the trail. This new space to explore couldn’t have come at a better time, during the pandemic and now with summer break - families and kids are enjoying Ric’s altruistic creation. “Seeing people wander along the trail or enjoying a game of checkers, makes me happy,� says Ric. A few years ago, Ric’s creative energy went into making wooden flutes, which not only produce a beautiful ethereal sound, but are also creative works of art to be displayed. While still working at Ascension
Borgess, Ric’s colleagues saw one of his custom flutes and the interest had a domino affect. He was commissioned to make a few flutes, which
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are often based on a theme or a person’s interest – for a coworker who loved horses, he created dÊcor with horses, boots and spurs to embellish
the flute. He has also been challenged with another commissioned piece by the heart practice he retired from – he is presently working on an oversized heart, complete with the electrical physiology, to be used as a teaching tool for patients. When Ric was growing up, he was raised to do anything that was needed. He learned the mechanic and body shop painting trade from his father. Ric then went on to work as a carpenter and became a pastor at two churches. Ric changed his career path to become a Cardiovascular Technologist, to better understand his son’s very rare disease, Hunter’s Syndrome. Ric mentioned, that each of these experiences tie together and influence his art. Ric uses art to advance the idea of slowing down to hear your inner voice. His art is produced under the name Yavas-Yavas, which means “slowly, slowly� in Turkish. He is also a firm believer in the “Law of Attraction� and has a prominent reminder on the wall of his garage studio that says, “What you think about, is what you bring about in your life.� This reminds Ric and his wife, Gayle, to think positively, which attracts more positivity. If you have any questions for Ric about his art, feel free to contact him at ricevans@ymail.com.
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Support Local Vintage!
Sizo+Peny Good News Paper readers, we hope you are all well and safe. Sadly due to COVID-19 we have decided to pause the Vintage in the Zoo Market season until the situation is a bit clearer, and hope to announce dates soon. For this article we will
hope you will consider supporting local + small business in our community for that next purchase, it truly matters now more than ever. Sizo+Peny | Kalamazoo, MI IG: @sizoandpeny depop.com/sizoandpeny “So obviously COVID has completely changed my future plans, as it has for everyone! However, this has really encouraged me to get better at online selling and presence, which originally wasn’t something that I loved to do! I am personally a hands-on shopper and that’s how I always viewed my business being. We secured a new studio space right before the pandemic hit and took the opportunity to get better at photography and posting online, which has actually been pretty great. It has also helped me focus more on the styling aspect of selling clothing, rather than just selling a piece of clothing off a hanger. Working someone and piecing together an outfit is so much fun! I am planning on opening our studio doors to the public! Hoping within the next couple of months we will be scheduling appointments, and would also like to book small shop-
Great Lakes Thrift Out Of Line Vintage | Battle Creek, MI IG: @outoflinevintage outoflinevintage.com
hear how a few VITZ vendors are working hard to grow their dream throughout the pandemic, in their words. As it is said “Necessity is the mother of invention” – let’s all pivot, right!? We love the #VITZfam, and
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Out Of Line Vintage ping parties for groups of friends to come and shop together! I think that would be a lot of fun! There also might be random days where we will just announce “studio’s open today!” as well. I don’t always want to be in a studio, but I’m loving this opportunity for right now, and feel like it’s a great stepping stone.” – Jodi Pleasant, Owner Great Lakes Thrift | Kalamazoo, MI IG: @greatlakesthriftco shopgreatlakesthrift.com “COVID-19 took me by surprise, to say the least. Great Lakes Thrift was eager and ready to jump right into the bustling retail scene of downtown Kalamazoo. Just a week after signing the lease at 328 S. Kalamazoo Mall, COVID began to impact the country and eventually, our local community. Our April 3rd grand opening was cancelled and our elaborate plans for a new look, new space and new product came to a screeching halt. BUT, quarantine
ultimately brought us back to our roots; use what you have and reduce waste. I took the time in quarantine to re-evaluate our product and create a plan for the store using the fixtures, artwork and inventory we already had. By June 19th, we were up and running! I am very happy with how things turned out, considering the circumstances. I can’t thank the Kalamazoo community enough for coming out to support us, whether that was shopping online, stopping by the store, or simply an Instagram or Facebook like. I can honestly say, I have no idea what the future holds. I am taking it day-by-day, week-by-week. My focus for the remainder of the year is to keep my family, my customers and myself safe while continuing to provide awesome vintage and thrifted finds. The new location is open to the public! Our hours are Thursdays 127pm, Fridays 11-8pm and Saturdays 11-6pm.” – Anika Johnson, Owner
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“Navigating business in the midst of a pandemic has been a huge learning experience. Not much changed for me day-to-day. The thing that helped me the most when things did get difficult was taking it day-by-day and focusing on what I could control. I gave myself time and space to figure things out, and used the stay at home order as a catalyst for my creativity. I was already moving most of my sales online, and COVID was a big motivating factor in getting that done more efficiently. It was honestly a huge blessing in disguise. Building a presence online has given me a bigger platform to grow my business, and it’s done so exponentially. I’ve also been given the opportunity to expand my workspace out of my second bedroom, which has needed to happen for a while now. The space currently isn’t open to the public, but I would like to change that soon and take appointments for those who want to shop OOLV in person. Currently I’m focused on creating as much as possible. Right now I’m really excited to be working on our fall/winter collection that will be released in October. It will include some handmade wardrobe essentials to offer more versatility to the brand.” – Marissa Calderone, Owner In closing, we are lucky to have so many AWESOME small businesses in SW Michigan! Want to help make an impact by shopping local?! Check out the links to our VITZ vendors at VintageintheZoo.com today.
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August 2020
GOOD NEWS
Peace TTalks alks by Jim Butcher (Ace) “Eagerly awaited by wizard Harry Dresden’s legion of fans, this 16th book in the series is definitely worth the wait. Wonderful scenes feature magical illusions, and many familiar characters return for peace talks in Chicago. Not much is peaceful for Harry, as the wizards might kick him off the White Council, faerie Queen Mab wants him to do a couple of favors for vampire Lara, and Harry’s half-brother is in prison after an assassination attempt. For series fans of The Hollows, The Iron Druid Chronicles, and The Nightside.“ —Brenda O’Brien, Woodridge Public Library, Woodridge, IL NoveList read-alike: The Arcadia Project series by Mishell Baker
July 2020 - Thepublished top tten en books published thisthat month that librarians across the love.love The top books this month librarians across thecountry country Bo Boyfr yfriend iend M Mat ater erial ial by Alexis Hall
Cr Crook ooked ed Hallelujah by Kelli Jo Ford
(Sourcebooks Landmark) “Incredibly proper Oliver and drama-laden Luc are extreme opposites. Despite a case of annoyance at first sight, the two antagonists reluctantly agree that faking a relationship might help each of them out of a bind. Hall crafts a well-paced relationship that will have readers completely invested in a happy ever after. Perfect for fans of If I Never Met You and Red, White, and Royal Blue.”
(Grove Press) “A well-crafted story of identity, survival, and loyalty that explores the terrain of love and heartbreak, loss and displacement for four generations of Native American women across four decades. Finding their own sources of strength, these proud, fierce women magnetically draw the reader in. For readers who enjoy Louise Erdrich and Diane Glancy.”
—Sharon Layburn, South Huntington Public Library, Huntington Station, NY NoveList read-alike: Jilted by Lilah Suzanne
—Janet Schneider, Peninsula Public Library, Lawrence, NY NoveList read-alike: Where the Dead Sit Talking by Brandon Hobson
The LLost ost and FFound ound Bookshop A Novel by Susan Wiggs
NoveList read-alike: Blood by Allison Moorer
The Only G Good ood IIndians ndians by Stephen GrahamTHAN Jones A GYM THE Y IS MORE (Gallery/Saga Press)during as evidenced
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(Dial Press Trade) "In this hilarious and poignant rom-com debut, Bea Schumacher is a highly influential, body positive, heartbroken fashion blogger, who one day writes a blistering, viral, blog post about the lack of diversity on her favorite reality tv dating show, Main Squeeze. For readers who enjoyed Bridget Jones’s Diary and Me Before You."
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“The gripping story opens with a rampant strain of virus (in this case rabies), followed by quarantines, lockdowns, fear, and irrational behavior. It hits alarmingly close to home. For fans of Severance by Ling Ma and Contagion by Robin Cook.”
"Sam thought the dynamic Duncan Carpenter was out of her life forever, until he returns to the school at which she\'s a librarian and makes her think she might just get her happily ever after. For fans of JoJo Moyes and Rebecca Serle."
cautiously and responsibly, we are reminded with every single interaction Find out mor moree at w ww ww.Librar .LibraryR yReads eads.or .org g Cool Off that our mission to serve ALL is with important now more than ever before. We will be here for you when you are ready.
One tto oW Wat atch ch A Novel by Kate Stayman-London
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—Sarah Fetzer, West Palm Beach City Library, West Palm Beach, FL —Sandra Woodbury, Burlington Public Library, Burlington, MA Marcre�enter E. Fitch NoveList read-alike: Boy in the Box Asbywe the fitnessNoveList environment read-alike: Sealed by Naomi Booth
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(Grand Central Publishing) “This sequel to The Royal We follows Nick and Bex through the first years of their marriage--a challenging time for anyone, let alone a royal couple whose wedding was disrupted by a sex scandal. As they settle into their new home, they uncover a secret that could change the future of Britain. Fans of Royal Wedding (Cabot) and Royals (Hawkins) will enjoy this funny and sensitive novel.”
Memor emorial ial Dr Driv ivee A Daughter's Memoir For book recommendations from your by Natasha Trethewey
(William Morrow) “Personal tragedy turns Natalie’s relationship with her life upside down and leads her mother, piecing together back to her childhood home, events that led up to her including her family’s beloved homegrown bookstore. Natalie mother's murder at the faces the decline of her hands of her stepfather. grandfather’s health, a building FOR YOUTH DEVELOPMENT For fans of No Visible in need of repair, and a business FOR HEALTHY LIVING Bruises by Rachel Louise in the red but also finds Snyder and The Red Parts unexpected love. Give to FOR SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY readers who liked How to Find by Maggie Nelson." Love in a Bookshop and The Readers of Broken Wheel.” —Mary Bell, Wilbraham Public Library, Wilbraham, MA
—Joyce Livingston, Collinsville Community Library, Brogue, PA NoveList read-alike: The Bookshop of Yesterdays by Amy Meyerson
The Heir A Affair ffair by Heather Cocks & Jessica Morgan
—Tracy Babiasz, Chapel Hill Public Library, Chapel Hill, NC NoveList read-alike: Josh and Hazel's Guide to Not Dating by Christina Lauren Made in Librar LibraryA yAwar waree - w ww ww.librar .librarya yawar waree.com
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August 2020
GOOD NEWS
parents Managing Through The Crisis
I have written about parenting for the Good News Paper for several years, always with an optimistic heart and a hopeful spirit. These recent times have challenged that mindset. I have often had moments of lost hope and a pessimistic outlook. And I don’t have young ones at home that feel confused, anxious, and lonely for friends and family “the way things used to be.” Parents, and their children, are expected to adapt, to thrive in the change, and parents are asked to explain why when we may not really understand why. Even though we as adults cannot explain why our lives have changed
– working at home, wearing masks, staying at a distance and outdoors, having school on the computer – we can help children accept the danger of CoVID 19 from a practical stand point. We can give them just enough information to answer their questions, but not so much as to increase their worries. We can model for them what it means to have concern and to act as a community to protect each other. We are in this changed lifestyle for the long term, I am afraid. So being creative about how we cope and connect safely with others will help with the loneliness we all are feeling.
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Here are some suggestions that may help: Make a safe-connection pact with like-minded families – 1 or 2 households – with whom you will connect for regular playdates, backyard picnics, and Barbecues. Like-minded means that you are managing exposure to the virus by wearing masks in public places, maintaining social distance, and taking other precautions to keep your families safe, in similar ways. That way, the children and parents can be free to play and interact without restrictions or masks. Explain to your children, in language that is easy to understand, what CoVid 19 is, why it is dangerous to our communities, and why this disease is so different from other diseases. There are many resources to help you explain from YouTube videos (just search “Corona virus explained to children”) to websites and articles https://www.additudemag.com/ explain-coronavirus-covid-19-anxiety-adhd-child/ https://www.brighthorizons.com/ family-resources/talking-to-childrenabout-covid19 https://childmind.org/article/talking-to-kids-about-the-coronavirus/ Use the time at home to do creative
activities that support others: sew or create fun face masks to donate, make drawings or write letters to elders that are shut in and away from family, gather food to take to the food pantry, adopt an older couple in your neighborhood to support with shopping or errands, make posters encouraging others like “wear your mask” “Bee Optimistic” “Look for the helpers” to put in your windows or paint on your car. Children will begin to ask about returning to school, and whether they will be in classrooms or on computers (or some combination) is still undecided. Planning ahead by having conversations and pretend play about what school might look like will go a long way to ease their fears. As I said, these are times to challenge the most optimistic. But I encourage you to be upbeat, to look for things to be grateful for every day, small but important things, and model that focus for your children. Stay safe and we will come out of this a better and more caring community. Dr. Susan Carter has been a practicing child psychologist and play therapist for nearly 30 years, now semi-retired, in Kalamazoo.
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August 2020
Recipes Nothing is more nutritious – or tasty – than a fresh-picked peach, which is even more amazing when added to a favored dish, and absolutely divine when bought from a local farm, such as Corey Lake Orchards in Three Rivers. Peaches are a special fruit. So special that many phrases have turned to a peach to add a little extra sweetness. In fact, for three centuries Englishspeakers have been using “peach” and “peachy” to describe things that are considered good, desirable and attractive, including attractive young ladies, “She’s a real peach!” The word has also been used to mean something exceptional of its kind, like when a prize-fighter lands
A Real Peach!
“a peach of a blow!” There’s also that idiom of a “peaches and cream” completion, which means possessing beautiful skin or the pleasant turn of phrase, “you’re a real peach!” which is stated when one wants to express how helpful someone has been for them. If you happen to be living in happy times you might be inclined to say that your life is just “Peachy keen,” and it could become literal if you get the opportunity to bite into a farmfresh-picked peach this season, as well! Sweet, juicy, and oh-so-good for you, peaches are actually a member of the rose family that originated in China.
Grilled Peaches w/ Balsamic Drizzle & Blue Cheese
3 tablespoons white sugar 3/4 cup balsamic vinegar 2 teaspoons freshly ground black peppercorns 2 large fresh peaches with peel, halved and pitted 2 1/2 ounces blue cheese, crumbled In a saucepan over medium heat, stir together the white sugar, balsamic vinegar, and pepper. Simmer until liquid has reduced by one half. It should become slightly thicker. Remove from heat, and set aside.
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Preheat grill on medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grate. Place peaches on the prepared grill, cut side down. Cook for about 5 minutes, or until the flesh is caramelized. Turn peaches over. Brush the top sides with the balsamic glaze, and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes. Transfer the peach halves to individual serving dishes, and drizzle with remaining glaze. Sprinkle with crumbled blue cheese.
What might be surprising is there are only two main varieties of peaches: The clingstone, which the flesh sticks to the stone, and the freestone, where the stone is easily separated from the flesh. Either can also have a yellow or white flesh, which is sweeter and less acidic than its more traditional golden counterpart, too. With a large peach offering fewer than 70 calories and containing 3 grams of fiber, along with a good source of vitamins A and C, eating this fruit can quench that sweet tooth while providing nutrition without excess calories. When selecting peaches, look for those that have flesh with a slight give, but use your whole hand vs.
fingertips to check since the fruit bruises so easily. Also, check for an even coloring of golden or creamy yellow. Nothing is more nutritious – or tasty – than a fresh-picked peach, especially when added to a favored dish, but they are absolutely divine when bought from a local farm, such as Corey Lake Orchards in Three Rivers, so be sure to shop “local!” Here now are some gorgeous ways to grill up some of this year’s amazing Michigan peaches today – ENJOY! Story & Photographs by Laura Kurella
Grilled Peaches w/ Honey & Goat Cheese
3 tablespoons Local Honey 4 tablespoons toasted pine nuts 3 large fresh Ga peaches with peel, halved and pitted 2 1/2 ounces goat cheese, crumbled Preheat grill for medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grate. Place peaches on the prepared grill, cut side down. Cook for about 5 minutes, or until the flesh is caramelized. Turn peaches over. Drizzle the top sides with the local honey, and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes.
Transfer the peach halves to individual serving dishes. Sprinkle with crumbled goat cheese and pine nuts.
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August 2020
Recipes
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A Real Peach!
Grilled Peaches and Prosciutto Appetizers 4 firm ripe Georgia peaches, peeled and quartered 16 slices Prosciutto toothpicks Wrap each peach quarter with Prosciutto so that it goes around twice.
Secure with toothpick. Grill until Prosciutto has browned a bit. Cool slightly before eating.
Grilled Chicken with Cucumber Peach Salsa YIELDS: 4 Servings Salsa: 2 cups peaches, peeled and chopped 1 cup English cucumber, chopped ½ cup red bell pepper, chopped 2 tablespoons lime juice ½ cup crumbled feta cheese 3 tablespoons chopped fresh mint Chicken: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon brown sugar ½ teaspoon kosher salt 1 tablespoon olive oil
In a medium bowl, combine peaches, cucumber, pepper, and lime juice and set aside. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. With a sharp knife, slice chicken breasts horizontally to yield two cutlets. Sprinkle both sides of with pepper and drizzle with olive oil. Grill chicken for 3 minutes per side or until done. Stir feta and mint into salsa, spoon over chicken, and serve.
Grilled Salmon with Peach Avacado Salsa YIELD: 4 Servings Salsa: 2 cups peeled and chopped peaches 1 avocado, diced ½ cup grape tomatoes, halved 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped 2 tablespoons lime juice Salmon: 1 teaspoon chili powder 1 teaspoon brown sugar ½ teaspoon kosher salt 1 ½ teaspoons olive oil 4 (6-8 ounce) salmon fillets Lime wedges for serving In a medium bowl, combine peaches, avocado, tomatoes, cilantro, and lime
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juice. Season with salt to taste and set aside. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Combine chili powder, sugar, and salt and sprinkle evenly over salmon fillets and drizzle with olive oil. Grill, flesh side down, for 4 minutes or until salmon does not stick. Turn fillets over and grill for and additional 4 minutes or until slightly opaque in center. Serve salmon with salsa and lime wedges.
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12
August 2020
GOOD NEWS
Delicious Fall Gardening
Even though fall is just around the corner, you can still plants and harvest armloads of edibles from your garden. The cooler weather that these next few months will bring are ideal for growing a variety of quick-maturing foods, and with COVID-19 continuously reshaping our reality, having even a small garden can provide peace of mind that food is just outside the back door. I’ve been growing fruits, veggies, herbs and flowers for the past 12 years, and have found a handful of fast-maturing foods that I feel almost anyone can grow that require minimal monetary investment and gardening experience. Everything listed below can be planted now to be enjoyed before the snow flies.
Radishes: One of the fastestgrowing veggies, radishes can reach maturity in just 20 days! Give a little room between seeds so they have enough space to develop under the soil. Plant every few weeks starting mid-to-late August for best results. Radishes are great for detoxifying the liver and stomach.
Greens: Greens can be expensive at the grocery store and have a short shelf life. Kale, spinach, swiss chard, and lettuce blends are simple to grow in pots and can be clipped and washed just before use. Most greens will tolerate partial shade and can even be seeded among other plants because they don’t require a lot of space. Greens also contain vitamins and minerals to help keep your eyes healthy. Sugar Snap Peas: Sugar
snap peas can be planted along a fence or trellis now for fresh eating in early October. These are great for little ones who want to pick and eat something fresh from the garden, and they’re also delicious in stir-fires. Sugar snaps are a great source of iron and beta-carotene.
Bush Beans: Unlike pole
beans, bush beans do not require a trellis and will continue to produce
as you pick mature pods. Putting just 15-20 seeds in the ground in early August will provide you plenty of beans into October. Green beans are also loaded with vitamins A, C, and K to boost immunity.
Broccoli: A member of the brassica family, broccoli is a crop that loves cool temps and will continue to produce well into October. Try blanching and freezing extra florets to use later. Broccoli is a great source of vitamins C and A, calcium, protein and fiber with low carbs.
Sugar snap peas are always a favorite for little ones to grab and eat while in the garden.
Carrots: Great in raised beds, large pots, or in well-tilled soil, carrots make for a sweet fall treat. Because carrot seedlings are so fine, try planting them along rows of radishes if planted in the ground. Although the radishes will be harvested sooner, they’ll act as a guide while the carrots are small. Carrots are best-known for their ability to keep your eyes healthy.
Zucchini Squash: One of these plants in a 5-gallon bucket or in the garden will provide you with more than enough warm-weather squash. Zucchini is extremely versatile lending itself to delicious salsas, lasagnas, fritters and more. They contain a high level of potassium and folate which is good for the heart. Other fast-maturing plants that are can be dried or frozen for use during winter months are herbs. A few that I love to plant in late summer include basil, chives, cilantro, dill, parsley, chamomile, and stevia. Fall is also a great time to get next year’s garlic and onions in the ground. The internet has endless backyard gardening resources, and you can find discounted seeds and plants at local garden centers. I hope you’re staying happy, healthy and in good spirits. Go out and enjoy what’s left of our summer sunshine (and maybe do a little gardening)! Meg Gernaat is an avid gardener, mom of two, and owner of a small marketing business (Kith and Company Creative). She currently calls the Kalamazoo/Plainwell area home.
Basil can be dried or chopped and frozen with water in ice cube trays for later use.
Chamomile can be planted, harvested, and dried for use in tea this winter.
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August 2020
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be ART ful
“Water your mind to grow your soul.” I have been to the East Coast, lived on the West Coast…but my favorite place is the Fresh Coast! Born, raised and happy that I get to call our beautiful Great Lakes State of Michigan my home. Lake Michigan has always been my getaway when I need to slow down and quiet my mind; be still and know. It is my life long love of the water that has been my faithful source of visual inspiration. There is something captivating about being in the com-
pany of this Great Lake that draws me in and I always look forward to soaking up every given moment. It’s here that I feel like my most true and authentic self. It is so joyful to spend time photographing the water, boats, beach scenes and sunsets during the summer. Keeping these images for creative inspiration encourages me to keep painting what I love. From micro-mini to large-scale paintings, it really is therapeutic to move the paint back and forth across the canvas. Being childlike and playful, I mostly use my hands when painting. Oftentimes, I like the effect of using
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a palette knife too or if small details are necessary, of course a paintbrush is the ideal tool. I have taught numerous creative workshops, but I have never thought about teaching anyone how to paint. However, I enjoy it so much that I will try my best to articulate an easy two-step DIY so you can create your own lovely lake painting. Supplies Needed: canvas . acrylic paint . palette knife Step 1. Maybe start off with a small canvas board (4x6) to get the feel of the application of paint. With the canvas either vertical or horizontal, establish your horizon line. I like to use thick paint squeezed directly from the tube. Using white, mix a hint of blue onto a paper plate or artist palette. Begin by painting the horizon line either with your finger or palette knife. Fill in the sky by adding more of the white and blue paint, always going across the canvas. Keep adding a little more to build up layers while smoothing it out until you like what you see. To add clouds, apply more white and create a few shorter layered strokes and then blend a bit. Step 2. Below the horizon line I start with a darker combination of blues and greens. Again, always push the paint with your fingers, hands or palette knife from one side to the other. Play with the paint and colors by blending and adding textural layers. Then add a touch of white with shorter and thicker strokes. It
will look like the waves are rolling towards shore. And that’s my very short and hopefully really easy to follow tutorial. Enjoy the rest of your summer and go jump in the lake…any lake! ~xo Bridget Fox Email: bridgetfoxkzoo@gmail.com Social: https://www.instagram.com/ bridgetfoxkzoo
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August 2020
Layla Wallace in many ways is a typical 15-year-old teenage girl. She attends Portage Central High School and participates in volleyball, track and Girl Scouts. What isn’t typical about Layla is that she has owned her own business, Layla’s Cool Pops, for the past five years and is also giving back in our community by donating a portion of her proceeds to fight homelessness. The business was born out of a 4th grade economics project that inspired Layla to make her vision a reality. In the beginning she sold her delicious treats during Art Hops at the Park Trades Center in her dad’s fitness studio and has participated in various expos since 2015. Her parents, Gregory and Luchara, are Layla’s biggest supporters and are helping their daughter in her fight to end homelessness. Many of Layla’s delicious sweet treats are the perfect size to pop in your mouth, hence the name Layla’s Cool Pops. The menu includes
cupcakes, cake pops, cookie pops, brownies, pretzel sticks, Rice Krispie treats, puppy chow and more. When I asked Layla what were her favorite parts of the business, she said, “being creative while decorating the treats, meeting people and seeing them smile.” Delicious gourmet cupcakes are made to order. Signature cupcake flavors include Lemon Drop, Strawberry Heaven, Red Velvet Salute, Triple C (triple chocolate) and Mom’s Favorite. I purchased a package of Mom’s Favorite (yellow cupcakes with chocolate icing and Oreo cookie crumbles) to share with my grandkids – they were a big hit. My grandsons both agreed that their favorite part was the Oreos in the icing -my sentiment exactly. The price was reasonable: $6 for a package of 4 cupcakes and a dozen is $18. They welcome special orders and offer vegan and vegetarian options for an additional charge. Cookie pops are cookies dipped
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in chocolate and decorated with sprinkles or other edible décor. They are made to order and are perfect for any occasion. The cost for 4 is $6 and a dozen is $18. Cake pops are delicious little pops of cake dipped in chocolate, topped with decorations and served on a stick. They are a popular choice for birthdays, graduations and wedding celebrations. A dozen cake pops are sold for $24 and are made to order. Rich fudge brownies are available by the full or half pan and are available with add-ins such as chocolate chips, Reese’s peanut butter cups, walnuts and pecans. Layla’s Cool Pops is a non-profit designed to provide financial support to other organizations in the community committed to combatting homelessness and to ultimately purchase homes for homeless families. Currently, they are alternating weekly donations between the Kalamazoo Gospel Mission, Loaves and Fishes, the Urban Alliance, YWCA, and other special opportunities as they arise – they donated $500 this past month. In August 2018 RREC Real Estate offered them their current space at 1336 Portage Rd. rent-free for 2 years to revitalize the Edison neighborhood. They have been operating various events since then, until this past May, during the pandemic, they qualified for a Kalamazoo small business development grant and were able to purchase professional signage for the storefront and their business began to flourish. They sell several hundred treats each week and are
also receiving large catering orders from Feed the Fight Kalamazoo, Meijer and others, who are feeding their employees during the pandemic. Patronicity, a crowd-funding platform that matches your campaign goal, chose Layla’s Cool Pop’s as a participant. The generous donations from the community and the match from Patronicity allowed Layla to purchase the commercial equipment (oven & refrigerator) needed to expand her retail space and increase her capacity to do more good. To order, Layla posts her weekly menu on Facebook each Monday and keeps the order forms active until she’s sold out of products for the week (typically Tuesday). Orders are ready for pick up each Friday between 10am-2pm and can be picked up inside the store or through their convenient curbside pickup. On a recent Friday, tables were piled high with packaged treats and there was a steady stream of cars taking advantage of the curbside pick-up, while others stopped in to see if there were any extras available for purchase. Delivery is available for larger catering orders. Help Layla eliminate homelessness one sweet at a time! For more information visit their website at laylascoolpops.com or follow them on social media channels @ laylascoolpops. You can contact them by phone (269) 767-8499 or email info@laylascoolpops.com. Jackie Merriam
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August 2020
15
Health How About Some Berry Good News!
One of the benefits of living in Southwestern Michigan in the summer is the abundance of fresh fruits and vegetables, including a variety of berries. Our early ancestors ate berries as far back as the Stone Age. Thousands of years later, Native Americans made good use of berries by not only eating them fresh and cooked, but also drying them to eat during the winter. Today, wild berries are still gathered by enthusiasts, but most berries are now cultivated. What sets berries apart from many other fruits are their flavonoids and other polyphenols, a class of plant substances that have antioxidant and other healthful properties? Raspberries, for example, have notably high levels of flavonoids. Blueberries have been shown to have benefits related to brain health. People with diabetes and heart disease are encouraged to include berries as part of their diet.
Berries are also a staple in the Mediterranean diet, often recommended by dieticians. We’re in an age where berries are available year-round. Growing up, the thought of strawberries in January was ludicrous. They were only available in ice cream and preserves. Today, berries abound throughout the year. However, they’re not likely to taste very good if they’re not in season. That’s because berries are shipped long distances and have to survive two or three days before they’re shipped, and therefore not ripe when they’re picked. In addition, berries have negligible starch to be converted into sugar so they don’t get sweeter after picking. It’s better to buy fresh berries when they’re available. Fortunately, we live in an area that’s berry rich. Van Buren County, for example, is the largest producer of blueberries in Michigan.
One of the joys of summer is to “pick your own” in a number of blueberry farms close by. Strawberry season in Michigan is relatively short, but the smaller berry (as compared to the larger ones shipped from California) is worth the wait. They explode with flavor! And homemade strawberry-rhubarb pie is sheer delight. But of you desire berries yearround, consider buying frozen one in off-season instead of fresh ones. Berries destined for freezing are typically harvested at their peak ripeness and processed within a few hours. If you want to freeze your own, wash them first and make sure they are thoroughly dry. Discard any that are mushy, discolored, or moldy and cut off the green tops of strawberries. Arrange the berries on a baking sheet in a single layer and put in the freezer for no more than 24 hours
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(any longer may result I freezer burn). Seal the berries in a plastic freezer bag after removing the air inside and lay the bags flat in the freezer if possible. They will keep for about 10-12 months. Remember to put a date on the bag. Whether fresh or frozen, you can add berries to salads, cereal, yogurt, smoothies, pancake or muffin batter, and grain dishes. Bottom line for me is: I don’t know of a food group that tastes so good and is so good for you. One last thing: What do you call a person who uses hand sanitizer 25 times a day? A rubbing alcoholic. (groan) Till next time, Ken Dettloff ACE Certified Personal Trainer
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August 2020
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Power outage doesn’t stop couple’s wedding at a west Michigan brewery
If there isn’t a joke about losing power on your wedding day, Vanessa and Jared Chrzanowski could probably make a few suggestions on creating one. The Hartford couple tied the knot on Saturday, Feb. 22 — the palindrome 02/22/20 — at Three Blondes Brewing in South Haven despite a wide scale power outage the afternoon of its wedding. Vanessa said brewery co-owner Carrie Troyer emailed the bride-to-be as she was getting her hair done for the informal wedding. The cause of the outage was not immediately known and officials with Indiana Michigan Power estimated about 3,400 customers were without power starting at about 8:30 a.m. that day. “Everything we do is unconventional and outside-the-box,” Vanessa said. “It stood to reason our wedding would be the same.” Troyer said this was the first wedding held at the brewery, which opened in June 2018. She was at her home in South Haven getting ready to drive to Comstock Park
for the Michigan Brewers Guild’s Winter Beer Festival when brewer Jake Demski told her about the outage while picking up beer for the event. “My heart sank. I was like, “Oh no. The bride is going to be devastated and potentially angry. But her response melted my heart,” Troyer said. Vanessa and Jared decided the ceremony would move ahead and they would make the best of the situation. Vanessa texted her soon-to-be husband a series of emojis and the news of the outage. He replied the show must go on and “we’ll have the place to ourselves.” “When you have an outdoor wedding in the summer, you have a backup plan. You don’t plan to have the power go out in the whole city” in the winter, Jared said. Officials estimated the power could return as early as 1:30 p.m. The wedding was scheduled to start at 3 p.m. with pizza and beer to follow. Troyer said she was relieved the couple could roll with the circumstances and kept her commitment to host the ceremony. “I let my staff know that she (Vanessa) is game. ‘I need you to be there and do whatever you can to help,’” Troyer said she told her staff. “I confirmed the water worked and the beer still flowed.” The wedding party, including three
Jared and Vanessa Chrzanowski on their wedding day.
of Vanessa’s four children — groomsmen Isaac, 18, and Austin, 16, and flower girl Eliana, 5 — made final touches by cell phone flashlights in the brewery bathrooms. Vanessa’s oldest son, Jacob, 19, is serving with the U.S. Army in Hawaii and could not attend the ceremony. The windows surrounding the loft space at Three Blondes let in enough natural light to both illuminate and heat the wedding space for the 25 people in attendance. The power returned about an hour after the couple became official. “We’ve reflected on it every day since then and we asked what would we change if we could change anything. The reality is nothing. It prob-
ably made the day better,” Vanessa said. The couple’s first date was at Arclight Brewing Co. in Watervliet and they were engaged in December at Greenbush Brewing Co. It makes sense another milestone came at a Michigan brewery. “Their staff was overly welcoming, especially considering they were supposed to be closed,” Vanessa said of Three Blondes Brewing. “They went above and beyond the entire time we were there. We really appreciated it.” John Liberty West Michigan Beer Tours
FREE august EVENTS Due to Caronavirus be sure to call or look online for possible event changes or cancellations. Saturdays, Aug. 1,8,15,22,29 Kalamazoo Farmers Market 7am-2pm, 342-5686
Thursdays, Aug. 6,13,20,27 Allegan Farmers Market, 8am-2pm Water & Cutler St. Parking Lot
Friday, August 7 Live music: Jake Stevens Band The Dock at Bayview, 8pm
Saturday, August 1 Live music: The Rotations The Dock at Bayview, 8pm
Thursdays, Aug. 6,13,20,27 Kalamazoo Farmers Market 2-6pm, 342-5686
Sun., August 2 – Sat. Aug. 8 Harry Potter Crafts, ages 11-17 Pick up your kit at the library. Instructions will be posted on richlandlibrary.org & Youtube page
Thursday, August 6 Dragon Painting Class Online 1st-5th graders pick up dragon painting kit at Richland Library Log into Zoom -6pm live tutorial, Registration Required, 629-9085 Or richlandclibrary@gmail.com
Friday, August 7 Late Night Food Truck Rally Water St., between Church/Rose Downtown Kalamazoo, 8-11pm
Mondays, Aug. 3,10,17,24,31 Cruise-In’s, 4:30-8pm Dean’s Ice Cream, Plainwell Tuesdays, Aug. 4,11,18,25 Kalamazoo Farmers Market 8am-1pm, 342-5686 Tuesdays, August 4,11 Authors & Illustrators Group 3rd-5th graders, register ahead Richland Library, 629-9085 Zoom meeting, 4pm Tuesday, August 4 Food Truck Rally, 5-8pm Flesher Field, Oshtemo Wednesdays, August 5 Children & Family Live Story Time on Facebook: A Troll 11-11:30am, richlandlibrary.org, Wednesday, Aug. 5,12,19,26 Richland Farmers Market, 3-6pm Richland Community Center Wednesdays, Aug. 5,12,19,26 Gull Lake Sailing Club Racing Gull Lake, 5:30-9pm Gulllakesailingclub.org
Thursday, August 6 Live Music: Al Hight & M6-West Overlander Bandshell, Portage 7-9pm, 329-4522 Fridays, August 7,14,21,28 Kalamazoo Mall Market Downtown Kalamazoo Beginning at 10am Fridays, August 7,14,21,28 Lunchtime Live, food Trucks 11:30am-1:30pm Bronson Park, Kalamazoo Friday, August 7 Outdoor Cinema Family friendly activities 6pm, Movie begins at 7:30pm Bronson Park, Kalamazoo Friday, August 7 Drive-in Movie with Public Safety Heroes: “Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker,” 9pm Food Trucks 5-8pm, Drive-in parking closes at 8:30pm Ramona Park, Portage
Sunday, August 9 Lakeside Concert at W.K. Kellogg Biological Station, Hickory Corners, 3-5pm Tuesday, August 11 Food Truck Rally, 5-8pm Midtown Fresh, Kalamazoo Tuesday August 11 Food Truck Rally, 5-8pm Oswalt Park, Vicksburg Wednesday, August 12 Children & Family Live Story Time on Facebook: A Tall Tale 11-11:30am, richlandlibrary.org Thursday, August 13 Fantastic Fairy Tales Live on Zoom, 2pm Register ahead 629-9085 or richlandclibrary@gmail.com Thursday, August 13 T.A.B.: Jack Box Games, 3pm Ages 11-17, Richland Library Register ahead-629-9085 or richlandclibrary@gmail.com Saturday, August 15 Do-Dah Parade, 11am-Noon Downtown Kalamazoo
Saturday, August 15 Pig Out in the Park With Public Safety, 2-6pm Carnival games, magician, Free cookout & school supplies -while supplies last! Ramona Park, Portage Monday, August 17 “Detroit Shuffle ‘ The Scandalous World of 1912 Detroit Politics And Women’s Suffrage”, 7pm Parchment Library on Zoom parchmentlibrary.org Tuesday, August 18 Food Truck Rally Antwerp Community Center In Mattawan, 5-8pm Thursday, August 20 Parchment Action Team On Zoom, 7pm parchmentlibrary.org Friday, August 21 Outdoor Cinema: “Missing Link” Family friendly activities, 6pm, Movie begins at 7:30pm Frays Park, Kalamazoo Friday, August 21 Drive-in Movie: “Onward”, 9pm Food Trucks 5-8pm, Drive-in parking closes at 8:30pm Ramona Park, Portage Monday, August 24 “ Let’s Talk Baking” with Maria Brennan, 7pm Parchment Library on Zoom parchmentlibrary.org Tuesday, August 25 Food Truck Rally, 5-8pm Chem Link Inc., Schoolcraft