From the Editor
There are many gratifying things about running Encore, but one of them is that we can bring beauty to people in so many ways.
One way is by telling the stories of people and organizations in our community. I look around me and see stories everywhere, and it is a beautiful thing to share them with others.
Another way of bringing beauty to our pages is through the amazing images that go with our stories. This month's issue is a celebration of those images and the man primarily responsible for them — our photographer, Brian K. Powers.
We've been working with Brian for more than a decade, and his work never, ever disappoints. He captures scenes and people in our community that give Encore its signature look. And he always provides us with more wonderful images than we can print but that we know need to be shared. That's what our annual "Revealed" issue is all about. We take a moment to honor Brian's artistry and eye, which have become so embedded in the Encore that readers love.
Also in this issue, we take a look at some other folks who create beauty through their kindness and caring. We visit Peace House, a space for youth in Kalamazoo's Eastside neighborhood. Two couples wanting to make a difference in their neighborhood created Peace House in their own homes and yards. The ripple effects of their efforts will be long felt.
We also meet Lucinda Stinson, chief executive officer of Lending Hands, which provides medical equipment to those who need it. Stinson's role at Lending Hands is an extension of her long career as a force in improving health care in our community.
And speaking of people who are forces for good, we are proud to tell you about the recent recipients of the Community Arts Awards from the Arts Council of Greater Kalamazoo. They are just a sampling of the dynamic individuals who make Kalamazoo's arts community so vibrant.
Amid all the hubbub of the holiday season, I encourage you to take a moment to witness the beauty that surrounds us and to appreciate those who create it. Have a wonderful holiday season.
Jordan Bradley
For this issue’s Back Story, Jordan spoke with Lucinda Stinson, CEO of Lending Hands of Michigan, a local organization that lends out medical equipment such as walkers and wheelchairs. “Lucinda is someone who knows the health care industry,” Jordan says, “and it’s really apparent that she cares about patients — even when they’re not exactly her patients. Lending Hands is such a unique organization, and Lucinda’s leadership has really propelled it forward.” Jordan is an intern-turnedfreelance-contributor to Encore. When she’s not writing, she can be found walking her dog or at the yoga studio.
Katie Houston
Katie Houston wrote this month's story about the familyrun Peace House, which was established 16 years ago and has become part of the fabric of Kalamazoo's Eastside neighborhood. “I was really struck by the literal peacefulness of the people and the vibe when I visited," Katie says. "There is a lot of trust and love and, of course, learning there.” Katie is a Kalamazoo-based writer and marketing consultant.
K. Powers
When Brian first walked into the Encore offices to talk about working for us as a photographer, he never expected it to become a relationship that has lasted more than a decade and for it to have had such an impact on the publication. His images are often the mostcommented-on aspect of the magazine, which is why we make sure to highlight his work in our annual "Revealed" issue.
"Sometimes I'll see a picture in the 'Revealed' issue and not remember having taken it," he admits. "My favorites are portraits. I love capturing the essence of people and making those who hate being photographed see how beautiful they really are." Brian is a Kalamazoobased freelance photographer who is trying to retire, but we won't let him.
Brian
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Publisher encore publications, inc Editor marie lee
Art Director alexis stubelt
Photographer brian k powers
Contributing Writers jordan bradley, katie houston, marie lee
Copy Editor/Poetry Editor margaret deritter
Advertising Sales janis clark kimberly juwong
Distribution ron kilian robert zedeck
Office Coordinator kelly burcroff
Proofreader hope smith
www.encorekalamazoo.com 117 W. Cedar St. Suite A, Kalamazoo, MI 49007
Telephone: (269) 383–4433
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 Encore Magazine is published 12 times yearly. Copyright 2025, Encore Publications, Inc. All rights reserved. Editorial, circulation and advertising correspondence should be sent to:
First Things
Something Funky
All-American Funk Parade to play at Bell's
If you're looking for a funky holiday party, then you'll want to attend the All-American Funk Parade's annual holiday dance party Dec. 20 at Bell's Eccentric Cafe.
This is the fifth annual holiday party at Bell's for the Michigan-based funk and rock band. The show begins at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $25.31 and available at bellsbeer.com or the Bell's General Store.
Something Aglow
Car museum offers Winter Wonderland
The Winter Wonderland Holiday Experience at the Gilmore Car Museum presents a mile of holiday light displays from 5–9 p.m. on select dates through Jan. 4.
In addition to this outdoor driving tour, the event features indoor activities, including a "Christmas Through the Decades" exhibit with festive room displays from the early 1900s to the 1990s and a Festival of Trees with 40 uniquely decorated trees. Themed days include a chance to meet favorite fairy tale and holiday characters on Thursdays and live music and fireworks on Fridays.
Tickets are $12 for adults and youth ages 5–17 and free for children age 4 and younger. They can be purchased at gilmorecarmuseum.org.
Something Good
Underwear Party to help those in need
For the price of a pair of new underwear or an item of warm clothing, you can have a good time for a good cause at Ministry With Community's annual Underwear Party, set for 5–7 p.m. Dec. 1 at the Lawrence Education Center at Beacon Kalamazoo (formerly Borgess Hospital).
This annual event gathers warm clothing and raises funds for Ministry's daytime shelter, which provides resources and meals for those experiencing homelessness, substance abuse or other crises. The organization is seeking donations of underwear, thermal wear and winter gear for adults in sizes medium to 3XL as well as monetary donations.
To see Ministry's donation wish list and to register for the event, visit ministrywithcommunity.org.
Something Adventurous Show to highlight off-road vehicles
If you are into vehicles that can get down and dirty, then the Michigan Off-Road Orama Dec. 5–7 at the Kalamazoo County Expo Center will provide the chance to get up close and personal.
Owners of off-road vehicles, including classic and custom 4x4's, custom side-by-sides, classic dirt bikes, dune buggies, and other off-road vehicles, are invited to display their rides for free. In addition, vendors will sell accessories and other off-road items.
The show's hours are 2 to 8 p.m. Dec. 5, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Dec. 6 and 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Dec. 7. Tickets are available at the door. They are $10 for adults and free for children 12 and under. For more information, visit offroadorama.com.
Something Handmade
Markets feature local artists, crafters
If you're looking for unique gifts this holiday season, you're in luck: There's a stocking full of local opportunities to find handcrafted items
The Kalamazoo Institute of Arts' Kirk Newman Art School Holiday Art Sale, featuring works created by students and faculty, will be held 4 to 8 p.m. Dec. 5 and 9 a.m.to 3 p.m. Dec. 6, with members-only hours 4 to 8 p.m. Dec. 4.
The Holiday Walk & Market, featuring wares by local artisans, will be open from 11 a.m.–4 p.m. Dec. 6, 13 and 20 at the Kellogg Manor House, in Hickory Corners.
Christmas at Wings Arts & Crafts Show will offer 340 booths from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Dec. 6 and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Dec. 7 at Wings Event Center.
The Girl Scouts Christmas Craft Show will have more than 40 vendors selling their crafts from 10 a.m.–3 p.m. Dec. 6 at the Girl Scouts building at 601 W. Maple St.
The Christmas Craft Show at the Kalamazoo County Expo Center will offer 220 booths from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Dec. 13 and 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Dec. 14 in the Main & South rooms.
And finally, the KIA will hold a Gallery Shop Meet & Greet from 4 to 7 p.m. Dec. 18, offering the chance to meet local artists as well as shop and enjoy discounts.
Gift Guide2025
St. Julian Winery & Distillery
716 S. Kalamazoo St., Paw Paw 269.657.5568 • stjulian.com
Discover the perfect holiday gifts with our selection of over 100 expertly crafted beverages! From premium spirits to award-winning dry and sweet wines, we have something to delight every wine and spirit lover on your list.
Design Details
Home and Gift
3766 W. Centre Ave., Portage 269.329.3000 • shopdesigndetails.com
Looking for that perfect gift for someone special or decorating your home for the holidays? Shop the curated selection of holiday decor and gifts at Design Details while supporting a locally owned small business. Happy Holidays!
Tromblay Salon and Gallery
627 S. Burdick St. 269.383.4300 • tromblay.com
Enjoy browsing the eclectic mix of clothing and gifts artfully displayed in the historical Bosman building in downtown Kalamazoo. Local art, leather goods, blouses and beeswax, you never know what you'll find at Tromblay.
Elina Organics
4205 S. Westnedge Ave. 269.384.9080 • elinaorganics.com
National award-winning, handmade, organic, clinical skin care products and services made in Kalamazoo. Voted best facial of Chicago by Chicago Magazine and Best Facial for Glowing Skin by CS Magazine
The Pantry on Tap
7634 S. Westnedge Ave., Portage 269.978.6641 • thepantryontap.com
Add some flavor to your life! The Pantry On Tap is a gourmet food & gift store featuring Olive Oils, Vinegars, Seasonings, Dips and Unique Gifts. Bring out your Inner Chef! Located near our sister store –‘ChocolaTea,’ where we can create a custom gift basket for holiday giving.
Genesis Fitness and Wellness
205.433.9377 • genesisfitwell.com Health and fitness is the best gift you can give to those most important to you. Have our certified personal trainers come virtually or in person to the safest environment — your home!
Gift Guide 2025
UniQ Jewelry Gallery
3940 W. Centre Ave., Portage
269.459.1669 • uniqjewelry.com
From us to you...
"May your presents be many, and your troubles be few..."
Pop on over and shop at UniQ. 11/1/25–12/31/25
Shop & Save
Buy up to $750, Save 25%
$751–2,500, save 30%
$2,500–4,000, save 35%
$4,001+ Save 40%
Kalamazoo Institute of Arts
314 S. Park St.
269.349.7775 • kiarts.org
This year, give the gift of art in KIA memberships, gift certificates, classes, and one-of-a-kind works of art from the Gallery Shop.
Learn more about hours of operation at kiarts.org.
Schultz Sweets
6857 West Main St., Unit 6
269.254.8277 • schultzsweets.com
We have all your favorite holiday goodies, including hand-dipped caramel apples, chocolates and sweets. Stay for lunch and ice cream or enjoy a hot chocolate in our cafe. Check out our candy making parties and custom ice cream cakes at Schultzsweets.com.
Kalamazoo Candle Company
202 S. Kalamazoo Mall • 269.532.9816 kalamazoocandle.com
Gilmore Car Museum
6865 W. Hickory Rd., Hickory Corners
269.671.5089 • gilmorecarmuseum.org
Give the auto enthusiast in your life the ultimate gift! A Gilmore Car Museum membership fuels their passion with unlimited cruises through classic collections, exclusive events, member perks, and timeless automotive memories.
Candles are a classic holiday gift, so why not give the best with Kalamazoo Candle Company? Shop 50+ fragrance options and more! Our new downtown location welcomes Zerø: Non-Alcoholic Bar for festive drinks and cozy vibes.
Mitten Running Co.
6290 S. Westnedge Ave., Portage 269.492.3544 • mittenrunningco.com
Whether you are a seasoned runner, dog walker, or just looking for quality athletic shoes, Mitten Running Co. has you covered. We offer the best name brands in running footwear, apparel, accessories, and nutrition. Stop in for your free digital foot scan, and our fit experts will get you dialed in for your next excursion. Located next to V&A Bootery in Portage.
Gift Guide 2025
Binder Park Zoo
7400 Division Dr., Battle Creek 269.979.1351 • binderparkzoo.org
Give the gift of adventure this holiday season with a zoo membership. A zoo membership offers a year of educational opportunites, family fun, unlimited visits and the chance to support wildlife conservation. It's the perfect gift for animal enthusiasts of all ages.
Liberty Square Furniture
8639 Portage Road, Portage 269.329.0434 • lsfhome.com
Liberty Square is so much more than a furniture store! We offer unique and tasteful holiday décor and accessories to adorn your home this holiday season. Hurry in for best selection.
Initial Attraction
3021 Oakland Drive • 269.341.4444 shopinitialattraction.com
Find just what you’re looking for this holiday season at Initial Attraction. Where trend meets tradition, you’ll discover gifts, entertaining essentials, and home accents from favorite brands including Jellycat, Juliska, Simon Pearce, Scout, and Nora Fleming to make thoughtful giving and holiday hosting beautifully easy.
Downtown Kalamazoo Shops
Downtown Kalamazoo Shop. Savor. Stroll.
Experience the season in Downtown Kalamazoo — where every purchase supports your community. Discover unique local shops, one-of-a-kind restaurants, and the joy of supporting small businesses that make our city shine. Skip the big box. Shop small.
Air Zoo – Aerospace & Science Center
6151 Portage Road, Portage 269.350.2842 • airzoo.org
A membership to the Air Zoo offers unlimited access to exhibits, rides, simulators, shows and member-only events all year! Members enjoy presales on programs, discounts in the gift shop and reciprocal membership opportunities. Explore options at airzoo.org/membership.
Theatre Kalamazoo
An organization of live theatres across Kalamazoo! • theatrekalamazoo.com
Questions? theatrekalamazoo@gmail.com
Give the gift of live theatre this holiday season! From musicals to comedies to powerful dramas, Theatre Kalamazoo member theatres offer something for everyone. One gift, endless experiences. Share the magic. Visit theatrekalamazoo.com to explore participating theatres.
Gift Guide 2025
Kazoo Books
2413 Parkview Ave.
269.553.6506 • kazoobooks.com
35 years of bookselling experience makes us the perfect place to shop for the right book as a gift or holiday reading. Take a break from the rush and relax in the fireplace room. Remember entrance and parking in the back.
Encore Magazine
117 W. Cedar St. • 269.383.4433 encorekalamazoo.com
Nothing stuffs a stocking like a subscription to Encore! The magazine for those who love Kalamazoo, each issue celebrates the people, places and things of our community. Subscribe online at encorekalamazoo.com/subscribe.
Kalamazoo Civic Theatre
329 S. Park St.
269.343.1313 • kazoocivic.com
Tickets to the Kalamazoo Civic Theatre make the perfect gift. Whether you're looking for a Holiday favorite like Annie, classics like The Odd Couple and The Producers, or contemporary shows like Dogfight, the Civic has something for everyone on your list.
Park Club
219 W. South St.
269.381.0876 • parkclub.net
Downtown Kalamazoo’s premier private dining club since 1904. Gift a membership of superior cuisine, attentive personalized service, and a loyalty to comfortable elegance.
The Candy Lady
640 Romence Rd. #111, Portage
269.343.5900 • shopcandylady.com
We have everything you need to create holiday themed candy, cakes and treats! New to candy making or want to learn more? Check out our class schedule and holiday cookie decorating workshops at shopcandylady.com. Want to host a party or event? We've got you covered!
Air Zoo Store
6151 Portage Road, Portage
269.350.2828 • airzoostore.org
Shop local for the perfect gifts! Explore unique books, jewelry, toys, and more for everyone on your list, even the hardest to shop for. Visit us in-store seven days a week or online anytime at airzoostore.org.
Eastside’s Peace House
An oasis of community, learning and peace for kids
BY KATIE HOUSTON
Depending on the dictionary you're using, an oasis can be defined as a refuge from the usual or challenging, a calm and pleasant spot in the middle of a hectic place, or somewhere to find safety and sustenance. Kalamazoo’s Peace House is all of those things, by intent. It's designed to serve the kids of the urban Eastside neighborhood with fun, friendship and learning.
Peace House was launched in 2009 by two couples who had attended Kalamazoo College, moved away from Kalamazoo and returned, choosing the Eastside neighborhood after sharing their vision with and seeking input from community leaders, including Kalamazoo city commissioners Don Cooney and Jeanne Hess.
“We were just starting to raise our own kids and wanted to create something that
we could do at the same time,” says Molly Mechtenberg, who is married to and has two children with Jerry Berrigan (son of the late Phillip Berrigan, a famous peace activist). The other co-founders are Jen and Mike DeWaele.
Peace House is located on Phelps Avenue and includes the couples' two homes, a repurposed garage, and outdoor yards and decks that host both summertime and school-year sessions centered on boosting success for K-12 students from the neighborhood. It serves about 50 youth who come and go as they are able.
“The idea is that kids can bring homework, and we and our volunteers work with them on that, or they can just come and play,” says Berrigan. “Not everybody’s ready to sit down right after school and do homework. We're open to the energy of the day.”
Jen DeWaele emphasizes the importance of Peace House's longevity. "We have a lot of talents, but what we're really good at is just being here a long time,” she says. “We've become a dependable fixture, and even people who've never sent their kids here feel like we belong to them, belong to the neighborhood.”
Jennifer Bradley, a single mother of four, praises the founders of Peace House and its volunteers. “They are genuine people,” she says. “It's important to me that my kids are around people who are genuine and show them respect. I really trust them. I know that my kids are safe here.”
Outdoor space at Peace House offers decks, play equipment and open space for crafts, games and play of all kinds.
Bradley’s son Anthony, 16, started visiting Peace House at age 6 and now serves on its Youth Advisory Board, which is made up of 17 teens who work with the adults on programming and help supervise the younger children during the summer. They earn $16 per hour for one three-hour shift each week.
“It’s a good opportunity that’s preparing him for real work,” says Bradley. “He enjoys it, and he takes it seriously. I love to see him get up on time, put on his Peace House shirt and get down here on his own. He's set an example for his younger sister and brothers.”
Mike DeWaele sees the youth board as an essential part of the program. “The Youth Advisory Board has been a huge stabilizing factor, helping us with consistency and even attendance,” he says. “They help ensure we're doing things that are interesting and fun, and since they know the kids so well, they can help us understand when somebody's having a hard day.
“This is our second generation of teens, so those who were here at the beginning have grown up, started families of their own, and are bringing their own kids here. It's the most wonderful thing. Every once in a while somebody will come by who we haven't seen in a long time, and they'll just stroll around the grounds remembering when they were here.”
Amos Mechtenberg-Berrigan was mowing a corner of the property when Encore visited. At 21, he would soon head back for his senior year at Aquinas College, where he is training to be a teacher. He said growing up at Peace House was good practice for his career.
“It was a great experience, though sometimes it could be intense, because there would be random kids in my house all the time. Overall, I was part of something good. I always had people to hang out with, and I’m still friends with a lot of people from the neighborhood."
The Peace House summer program hosts kids four days per week for two hours, with crafts, gardening, cooking, games, field trips and optional reading time — the last of which could earn prizes for the young readers. The kids’ families were invited for weekly evening programs that included canning, gardening, cookouts and even a spa night. Fall programming, now underway, encompasses 90 minutes three times weekly.
Malachi, 15, lives across the street from Peace House and has been visiting since 2022. He was there most days this past summer as part of the Youth Advisory Board.
Top: Members of the Peace House Youth Advisory Board, which helps the organization with programming and supervision of younger children are (first names only), top row from left, Stacy, Trinity, Ja’nyiah, Amare and Leah; bottom row from left, Anthony, Landon, Zane, Malachi and Rishard. Center: A youngster enjoys a wide bench swing on the grounds. Bottom: A view of the expansive outdoor space at Peace House.
“We have expectations that they set for us; they help us learn how to act and be a role model. We make sure the kids get a snack, help clean up and just be a friend,” he says. “It’s a cool environment. It’s small, not too many people, mostly people I know from the neighborhood.”
Marcel, also 15, has been visiting Peace House for two years and was on the organization’s payroll this past summer. He says he’s learned a lot about working with kids.
“Some can be difficult, but I feel like overall this is a place for them to better their behavior," he says. "It’s a very helpful environment to be in, and I feel like a lot of kids have improved. I love it here and everybody here.”
The teens are less active during the school year but still meet and have enrichment programming of their own, like team building and social and emotional learning. Peace House activities, which are provided at no charge, are funded by the MechtenbergBerrigan and DeWaele families and individual donations. Volunteers have been part of the mix from the beginning, helping to clear, build and renovate the spaces and serving as reading and math mentors.
Phelps Avenue neighbor Diane Carver has grandkids, nieces and nephews who visit Peace House. She speaks with pride about the reading prizes her granddaughter has received: “She’s reading way, way above her grade level.”
“It's such a great opportunity for kids to advance in whatever they're doing,” Carver says. “What they do for the community is just outstanding. My granddaughter and my great niece came home last week with a jar of pickles. Last night they made bouquets. It's just all about community, interacting with each other. It's a safe place for kids in the neighborhood to grow and learn and have fun.”
To learn more about Peace House or to volunteer or make a donation, visit peacehousekzoo.org.
From left: The outdoorsy mural is on the back side of the Mechtenberg-Berrigans' garage which was made into indoor study and board game space; a young participant is served a snack during a summer program.
Lori Hannemann, Michael Brundage, CFP® & Michelle Eldridge, CFA,CPWA® Wealth Management Partners
Revealed
Our photographer Brian K. Powers takes hundreds of photos for us in any given year, and many times we have more wonderful images to choose from than we can print. That's why we created Encore's annual "Revealed" issue — to allow our readers see more of his beautiful work. Encore staffers cull through these dozens of photos and pick their favorite unpublished images to feature. There are always surprising images of mundane things (like the light fixture on page 18) and landscapes, but this year we had a number of portraits that made the cut. Brian is a master of finding the essence of people with his lens, as you will see in the following pages.
PHOTOGRAPHY BY BRIAN K. POWERS
A golden sunset overlooking Portage's Sugarloaf Lake.
This page: Clockwise from top: Bronson Healthcare CEO Bill Manns listens intently to the young men at the Breakfast of Champions; the underside of a table lamp Powers captured while waiting to take a photo for a story; and the gate to the yard at Peace House.
Opposite page: Powers captures a fun moment during a portrait shoot of Northfield Mandolins' product manager Derek Smith (left) and founder and owner Adrian Bagale.
Clockwise from above: Kalamazoo rapper and activist Ed Genesis; a fiery outline of incoming storm clouds above Portage; artist Dave Middleton at work in his studio; and components of a mandolin in production at Northfield Mandolins.
Clockwise from top left: While on a shoot, Powers captured this adorable alpaca duo watching him work; a graphic recording of the events at a Koa Cafe created by artist Alexandra Nash for the Koa Fund; Jenny Doezema, executive director of the Kalamazoo Climate Crisis Coalition on the porch of the home on Kalamazoo's Northside where she was born and raised; poet and spokenword artist Marcel Fable Price.
Mark Kubas MI 4156A
Matt Stemple NE 6601BT
Breilen Maybee MI 4763A
Trevor Roepcke MI 4254A
Ryan Plunkett WI 0882A
Lou Mitchell MI 4423A
Dominic Fulton MI 4691A
Ben Yost MI 4086A
Celebrating Impact Annual awards recognize contributions to the arts community
BY ENCORE STAFF
The Arts Council of Greater Kalamazoo will recognize artists, arts organizations and those who support the arts in its annual 2025 Community Arts Awards this month.
The awards will be given in a celebration at 7 p.m. Dec. 9 in Kalamazoo Valley Community College's Lake Auditorium, on the Texas Township campus.
Four artists working in different mediums will receive the Community Medal of Arts, which recognizes an artist with a significant body of creative activity, leadership, local or national acclaim, and community impact through art. Those receiving the 2025 award are:
• Fran Dwight, a photographer who has captured stories of resilience, pride and belonging with her lens. Dwight created the acclaimed Edison: Inside/Out project, which installed large black-and-white portraits of Edison neighborhood residents on buildings in the neighborhood.
• Al Harris Jr., a painter and educator who has shared the transformative power of art for more than 60 years. Harris inspired thousands of students during his 34-year career as an art teacher in Kalamazoo Public Schools. A gifted painter, he continues teaching at the Kalamazoo Institute of Arts.
•Robin Nott, founder of the Performing Arts Company at Gull Lake Community Schools. Nott has inspired generations through the power of theater, storytelling and music. A performer, educator and mentor, he has shaped thousands of students, artists and audiences for more than four decades.
• Bradley Wong, a world-class clarinetist, educator and arts leader. Wong has had an impact on the community's music scene for more than 40 years. As a professor and director of the School of Music at Western Michigan University, he mentored generations of musicians. Now, as the executive and artistic director of Fontana Chamber Arts, Wong provides impact through the organization's programming and outreach.
“These honorees demonstrate how the arts build belonging, fuel learning and shape a vibrant community,”
Clockwise from top left: Community Medal of Arts recipients Fran Dwight, Al Harris, Robin Nott and Bradley Wong. Courtesy photos.
says Kristen Chesak, executive director of the Arts Council. “Their work shows what is possible when talent and generosity move in step with purpose.”
Other honorees to be recognized at the event include:
•April Woodward-Slack, who will receive the Gayle Hoogstraten Arts Leadership Award in Administration. Slack is the operations manager of Crescendo Academy of Music.
• Felix Bahrou and Ivan Tai, who will receive the Adam F. Carter Young Artist Award. Bahrou, a Loy Norrix High School senior, has appeared in 13 stage productions, including lead roles in Urinetown, Puffs and Grease. Tai, an 18-year-old violinist studying
violin performance and environmental engineering at Case Western Reserve University, is a graduate of Kalamazoo's Crescendo Academy and a former member of the Kalamazoo Junior Symphony Orchestra.
• Farmers Alley Theatre and Prairie Ronde Artist Residency and Gallery, which will each receive the Epic Award. It recognizes arts organizations or programs that enhance life in the community.
Farmers Alley Theatre, in downtown Kalamazoo, is the region's only year-round Equity theater. It was founded in 2008 and has presented diverse productions and partnered with community organizations to provide inclusive access and theater education.
Since 2017, Prairie Ronde Artist Residency and Gallery in Vicksburg has provided nearly 200 artists the time, space and inspiration to create. Through exhibitions, performances and educational programs, the residency and gallery have added to the region's cultural vitality.
• Zhang Financial, which will receive the Business Arts Award for its support and commitment to the local arts community. Its founders, Charles and Lynn Chen Zhang, have long been champions of the arts in Kalamazoo, supporting a number of cultural organizations. Zhang Financial, for example, is the title sponsor of Miller Auditorium's Broadway season.
TheArts
WMU School of Music Concerts
Throughout the month
Various venues
The Western Michigan University School of Music finishes out its fall semester with several performances by students and faculty. Unless otherwise noted, the performances will be in the Dalton Center Recital Hall, and tickets are $6 to $18:
• Multimedia Arts Technology Studio Recital, 5:30 p.m. Dec. 1, 3 & 4, Dalton Center Lecture Hall, free.
• WMU Student Chamber Ensemble, 7 p.m. Dec. 4, Zion Lutheran Church, 2122 Bronson Blvd., free.
• Western Horn Choir, 7:30 p.m. Dec. 4, free.
• A Choral Christmas , featuring WMU's Amphion, Anima & University Chorale, 4 & 7:30 p.m. Dec. 6, First Presbyterian Church, 321 W. South St.
• Brass for the Holidays , performed by Western Brass Quintet and guests, 3 p.m. Dec. 14.
To purchase tickets or for more information, visit wmich.edu/music/events.
Choral Performances Throughout the month
Various venues
If choirs are key to your holiday joy, then you'll have many mirthful opportunities this month. Local choral performances scheduled in December are:
• Making Spirits Bright , performed by Blendings Vocal Ensemble at 7:30 p.m. Dec. 6 at Second Reformed Church, 2323 Stadium Drive. Tickets are $10–$20 and available at blendings.org.
• There’s Still Our Joy , presented by the Kalamazoo Community Chorale at 3 p.m. Dec. 7 at First United Methodist Church, 212 S. Park St. For more information, visit kalamazoocommunitychorale.com.
• Holidays with Kalamazoo Choral Arts at 4 p.m. Dec. 7 in Kalamazoo College's Stetson Chapel. Tickets are $21.50–$29.50 and available at kalamazoochoralarts.org.
• Cocktails & Carols , a Kalamazoo Choral Arts holiday sing-along at 7 p.m. Dec. 9 at Shakespeare’s Pub. A $10 donation is suggested. For more information, visit kalamazoochoralarts.org.
Miki Yamanaka Trio
Dec. 6
The Gilmore
Jazz pianist Miki Yamanaka, known for her energetic and expressive playing, will perform two shows at Bell's Eccentric Cafe.
Yamanaka will perform music from her own repertoire as well as interpretations of Great American Songbook and jazz standards.
Show times are 5 and 8 p.m. Tickets are $10–$28 and available at thegilmore.org.
Carolsby Candlelight
Dec. 17
Kalamazoo Symphony Orchestra
Enjoy the warm glow of candlelight and holiday tunes when the KSO's Artists in Residence perform in the round in the Arcadia Ballroom of the Radisson Plaza Hotel in downtown Kalamazoo.
Show times are 5:30 and 7:15 p.m. Tickets are $5–$25 and available at kalamazoosymphony.com.
MUSIC Holiday Magic
Dec. 5
Kalamazoo Concert Band
The Krüger Brothers, a quartet that blends classical music with folk and bluegrass traditions, will join the Concert Band for a free performance at 7 p.m. at Miller Auditorium.
The Krüger Brothers have released more than 20 albums and performed with such well-known musicians as Doc Watson, Earl Scruggs, Ricky Skaggs and Willie Nelson.
For more information, visit kalamazooconcertband.org.
LibbyYork JazzShow
Dec. 11
Crawlspace Theatre
Chicago jazz vocalist Libby York, described as a storyteller who swings, will make her Kalamazoo debut at 7:30 p.m. Dec. 11.
York's album Dreamland was listed among Downbeat Magazine's Best of the Year for 2023. She has performed at Mezzrow in New York City, Winter’s Jazz Club in Chicago, and Cafe Laurent in Paris.
The theater is located at 315 W. Michigan Ave., and tickets are $10–$20 in advance. For more information, visit crawlspacecomedy.com.
AnEarly American Holiday
Dec. 6
Early Music Michigan
Diverse repertoires of music from New England, New France and New Spain will be featured in this performance at 3 p.m. at First Congregational Church, 345 W. Michigan Ave.
Early American classical and folk music for instruments and voices will be featured alongside the choral writing of Lowell Mason and unique harmony of shape note singing from William Billings.
Tickets are $15–$50 and available at earlymusicmichigan.org.
AboveAll ThisBustle: SilverBells
Dec. 13
Kalamazoo Ringers
Bells will be ringing when this handbell ensemble performs at First United Methodist Church, 212 S. Park St.
Show times are 3 and 7 p.m. Admission is free, but offerings will be collected. Attendees are invited to bring winter hats, gloves, socks and scarves to be donated to local people in need. For more information, visit kalamazooringers.org.
VISUAL ARTS
Create Dec. 5 Art Hop
Honoring the beauty of handmade art is the focus of this month's Art Hop in downtown Kalamazoo.
This free event, organized by the Arts Council of Greater Kalamazoo, runs from 5–8 p.m. and features a variety of artists’ works as well as live music and the chance to visit downtown businesses.
For a brochure showing Art Hop sites and providing information about participating artists, visit kalamazooarts.org.
Ongoing Exhibitions
LynnSures:GlancingattheUnseen , through Jan. 14, Kalamazoo Book Arts Center
Kalamazoo Institute of Arts:
• Washi Transformed: New ExpressionsinJapanesePaper , through Jan. 11
• KirkNewmanArtSchoolFaculty Review , through Jan. 25
• TaekyeomLee:Designed,Printed & Fired , through March 8
TheArts
SantaSuit
Dec. 6
All Ears Theatre
This all-audio holiday comedy, written and directed by Tim Eschlebach of Kalamazoo, will be performed at 6 p.m. at the Kalamazoo Nonprofit Advocacy Coalition, 315 W. Michigan Ave. It features local actors Ron Centers, Glynis Fenn, Tim Hill, Ish Klein, Richard Philpot and Michael Waldschlager II. The show is free. For more information, visit allearstheatre.org.
Colleen Cambridge
Dec. 17
Parchment Community Library
LITERATURE
Historic mystery author Colleen Cambridge will give a talk at 11 a.m. Dec. 17. Colleen Gleason, writing under the Cambridge pen name, has authored a dozen books, including A Fashionably French Murder. Gleason is a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author who also writes under the pen names C.M. Gleason and Alex Mandon and in various genres, from dystopian romance to historical romance and mysteries. The library is located at 401 S. Riverview Drive. For more information, visit parchmentlibrary.org.
Cabaret
Performances
Throughout the month
Two venues
If holiday-themed cabaret shows appeal to you, then you may want to catch one or two put on by local theater organizations this month.
You can hear holiday songs and enjoy a complimentary cup of hot cocoa when the Barn Theatre, in Augusta, presents its annual Christmas Cabaret Dec. 12–21. Show times are 7 p.m. Dec. 12–14 and 17–21 and 2 p.m. Dec. 13–14 and 20–21. Tickets are $41 and available at barntheatreschool.org.
Center Stage Theatre is inviting audiences to make it a December to Remember when it presents its cabaret fundraiser Dec. 12–13 at Connections Community Church, 11500 N. US-131, in Schoolcraft. The show's proceeds will support the all-volunteer community theater program. Show times are 7 p.m. Dec. 12–13 and 2 p.m. Dec. 13. Tickets are $15 and available at kzoocst.com.
Annie
Dec. 6–19
Kalamazoo
Civic Theatre
This heartwarming musical about a plucky young orphan with curly red hair who believes the sun will always come out tomorrow will be staged at the Civic Auditorium.
Charlotte Nickell makes her Civic debut in the title role of the production, which will be directed by Mike Artis.
Show times are 2 p.m. Dec. 6–7, 13–14 and 20–21 and 7:30 p.m. Dec. 5, 12 and 19. Tickets are $17–$32 and can be purchased at kazoocivic.com or by calling 343-1313.
Other Productions
AVeryKalamazooChristmas, through Dec. 14, Farmers Alley Theatre
A Christmas Carol, through Dec. 18, New Vic Theatre
NextStop, Broadway
Dec. 4–6
WMU Department of Theatre
Broadway actress Lana Gordon will join seniors from the Western Michigan University musical theater program for this annual cabaret performance in WMU’s Williams Theatre.
Gordon starred as Persephone in the Broadway and national tour of Hadestown She also starred as Velma Kelly in Chicago on Broadway and throughout North America and Europe. Her other Broadway credits include The Lion King and Jesus Christ Superstar
Tickets for the 7:30 p.m. performances are $7–$24 and available by calling 387-6222 or visiting wmich.edu/theatre.
Mahalia:
AGospel
Musical
Dec. 5–14
Face Off Theatre
THEATER
The art and activism of gospel singer Mahalia Jackson will be spotlighted in this production, which will be staged at First Galilee Baptist Church, 1216 N. Westnedge Ave.
The show, directed by Arizsia Staton, celebrates a woman whose music became both a balm and a battle cry during the Civil Rights Movement.
Show times are 7:30 p.m. Dec 6, 12 and 13 and 2 p.m. Dec. 7 and 14. Tickets are $20 and available at faceofftheatre.com.
Merry,Queer&Bright
Dec. 12–14
Queer Theatre Kalamazoo
Four lifelong friends who each embark on a journey from different parts of the U.S. to reunite in their hometown of Kalamazoo are at the heart of this Hallmark-inspired Christmas rom-com by local playwright Brooke Lindley.
Show times are 7:30 p.m. Dec. 12–13 and 2 p.m. Dec. 14. Tickets are on a name-your-price basis. For tickets and location information, visit queertk.org.
TheNutcracker Kalamazoo
Dec. 6 & 7
Ballet Kalamazoo
The holiday classic gets a little local flavor when it’s performed this month in Comstock — such local sites as Bronson Park and the Kalamazoo Mall are woven into the tale.
The production will feature guest artists Matthew Rusk of the St. Louis Ballet as the Nutcracker Prince, and Seyong Kim, dance professor at Western Michigan University, as Drosselmeyer.
Show time is 2 p.m. Tickets are $15–$30 and available at balletkalamazoo.com.
TheArts
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PERFORMING ARTS
THEATER
Plays
A Very Kalamazoo Christmas — A woman evaluates her life & priorities, through Dec. 14, Farmers Alley Theatre, 221 Farmers Alley, 343-2727, farmersalleytheatre.com.
ScroogeinRouge— A comical twist on Dickens’ A Christmas Carol, 7 p.m. Dec. 5, Dormouse Theatre, 1030 Portage St., dormousetheatre.com.
Merry, Queer & Bright — Christmas play about four friends reuniting in their hometown of Kalamazoo, 7:30 p.m. Dec. 12 & 13, 2 p.m. Dec. 14, Location TBD per website, queertk.org.
Musicals
A Christmas Carol — Annual production of the Dickens story, 8 p.m. Dec. 3–5, 10–11 & 18, New Vic Theatre, 134 E. Vine St., 381-3328, thenewvictheatre.org.
NextStop,Broadway— WMU seniors majoring in musical theater perform with guest Lana Gordon, 7:30 p.m. Dec. 4–6, Williams Theatre, WMU, 387–6222, wmich.edu/theatre.
Mahalia:AGospelMusical — The story of gospel singer Mahalia Jackson, 7:30 p.m. Dec. 5–6 & 12–13, 2 p.m. Dec. 7 & 14, performed by Face Off Theatre Company, Galilee Baptist Church, 1216 N. Westnedge Ave., faceofftheatre.com.
Annie — A young orphan is determined to find her family, 2 p.m. Dec. 6–7, 13–14 & 20–21, 7:30 p.m. Dec. 5, 12 & 19, Civic Theatre, 329 S. Park St., 343-1313, kazoocivic.com.
Other
Santa Suit — All-audio theater production, 6 p.m. Dec. 6, Kalamazoo Nonprofit Advocacy Coalition, 315 W. Michigan, allearstheatre.org.
Christmas Cabaret — Holiday songs, 7 p.m. Dec. 12, 17–19, 2 & 7 p.m. Dec. 13–14 & 20–21, Barn Theatre, 13351 West M-96, Augusta, 731-4121, barntheatreschool.org.
December to Remember — Cabaret fundraiser for Center Stage Theatre, 7 p.m. Dec. 12, 2 & 7 p.m. Dec. 13, Connections Community Church, 11500 N. US-131, Schoolcraft, kzoocst.com.
Cirque Dreams Holidaze — Music & dance featuring holiday storybook characters, 7:30 p.m. Dec. 16, Miller Auditorium, millerauditorium.com.
DANCE
TheNutcrackerKalamazoo— Presented by Ballet Kalamazoo with guest artists, 2 p.m. Dec. 6 & 7, Comstock Community Auditorium, 2107 N. 26th St., balletkalamazoo.com.
MUSIC
Bands & Solo Artists
Bell’s Eccentric Cafe Concerts — Kalamazoo Academy of Rock, 6 p.m. Dec. 2 & 3; The Lemonheads, Dec. 4; Santino Jones w/Sonny Ski & The Kaden Anderson Quintet, 7 p.m. Dec. 5; An Evening with Spafford, Dec. 7; Lowdown Brass Band, Dec. 12; Knee Deep Shag w/Payton & Annabelle, Zero Sun, 7:45 p.m. Dec. 13; John Prine Tribute & Benefit Concert for Smiling Acres Music Festival, Dec. 19; All-American Funk Parade, 7:30 p.m. Dec. 20; all shows at 8 p.m. unless noted otherwise, 355 E. Kalamazoo Ave., 382-2332, bellsbeer.com.
A Carpenters Christmas — Concert based on the pop duo’s holiday albums & variety shows, 7:30 p.m. Dec. 6, Miller Auditorium, millerauditorium.com.
Night of 1,000 Stevies — Singing & lip-syncing to music by Stevie Nicks, 8 p.m. Dec. 20, Dormouse Theatre, dormousetheatre.com.
Orchestra, Chamber, Jazz, Vocal & More
Multimedia Arts Technology Studio Recital — Capstone works by WMU’s Multimedia Arts Technology students, 5:30 p.m. Dec. 1, 3 & 4, Dalton Center Lecture Hall, wmich.edu/music/events.
Christmas In Kalamazoo — Kalamazoo Male Chorus & Kalamazoo Ringers perform, 7:30 p.m. Dec. 2, Centerpoint Church, 2345 N. 10th St., KalamazooMaleChorus.org.
WMU Student Chamber Ensemble — 7 p.m. Dec. 4, Zion Lutheran Church, 2122 Bronson Blvd., wmich.edu/music/events.
Western Horn Choir — 7:30 p.m. Dec. 4, Dalton Center Recital Hall, wmich.edu/music/events.
Holiday Magic — The Kalamazoo Concert Band performs with the Krüger Brothers, 7 p.m. Dec. 5, Miller Auditorium, kalamazooconcertband.org.
Kalamazoo Mandolin & Guitar Orchestra — Performing during Art Hop, 6–7 p.m. & 7:15–8 p.m. Dec. 5, Kalamazoo Valley Museum, 230 N. Rose St., kalamazoomuseum.org.
Congregational Church, 345 W. Michigan Ave., earlymusicmichigan.org.
AChoralChristmas— Featuring WMU's Amphion, Anima & University Chorale, 4 & 7:30 p.m. Dec. 6, First Presbyterian Church, 321 W. South St., wmich.edu/music/events.
Miki Yamanaka Trio — Jazz trio presented by The Gilmore, 5 & 8 p.m. Dec. 6, Bell’s Eccentric Cafe, 355 E. Kalamazoo Ave., 342–1166, thegilmore.org.
Making Spirits Bright — Blendings Vocal Ensemble performs, 7:30 p.m. Dec. 6, Second Reformed Church, 2323 Stadium Dr., blendings.org.
There’s Still Our Joy — Kalamazoo Community Chorale performs, 3 p.m. Dec. 7, First United Methodist Church, 212 S. Park St., kalamazoocommunitychorale.com.
Holidays with Kalamazoo Choral Arts — Festive carols, 4 p.m. Dec. 7, Stetson Chapel, Kalamazoo College, kalamazoochoralarts.org.
Cocktails & Carols — A holiday sing-along, 7 p.m. Dec. 9, Shakespeare’s Pub, 241 E. Kalamazoo Ave., kalamazoochoralarts.org.
Gull Lake Jazz Orchestra — Christmas show, 7 p.m. Dec. 10, The Dock at Bayview, 12504 East D Ave., Richland; for reservations, call 731-4911.
Crescendo Community Voices — Teens & adults with intellectual disabilities perform, 4 p.m. Dec. 11, First Congregational Church, crescendoacademy.com.
Libby York Jazz Show — 7:30 p.m. Dec. 11, Crawlspace Theatre, 315 W. Michigan Ave., crawlspacecomedy.com.
Violin Treasures by Barry Ross & Tina Gorter — Violin performance, 7 p.m. Dec. 12, Second Reformed Church, facebook.com/events/1978273306265137.
SaturdayswithStulberg — Online recital by 2022 Stulberg Bronze Medalist Angeline Kiang, 10:30 a.m. Dec. 13, stulberg.org.
Crescendo Academy of Music Student Recital — 2 p.m. Dec. 13, First Presbyterian Church, 321 W.
p.m. Dec. 13, First United Methodist Church, 212 S. Park St., kalamazooringers.org.
Chapter Two Band — Rock, pop & Motown music, 2 p.m. Dec. 14, Parchment Community Library, 401 S. Riverview Drive, parchmentlibrary.org.
BrassfortheHolidays— Western Brass Quintet & guests, 3 p.m. Dec. 14, WMU's Dalton Recital Hall, wmich.edu/music/events.
Carols by Candlelight — Holiday tunes performed by Kalamazoo Symphony Orchestra artists-in-residence, 5:30 & 7:15 p.m. Dec. 17, Radisson Plaza Hotel, 100 W. Michigan Ave., kalamazoosymphony.com.
COMEDY
Crawlspace Comedy Theatre — Improv performances: What Sharp Teeth & Blunder Bus, Dec. 6; Crawlspace Eviction, Dec. 12–13; both shows begin at 7:30 p.m., Kalamazoo Nonprofit Advocacy Coalition, 315 W. Michigan Ave., crawlspacecomedy.com.
Chi-TownComedyTakeover— Damon Williams & other comedians, 8 p.m. Dec. 19, Miller Auditorium, for ages 18 and up, millerauditorium.com.
FILM
Black Christmas — Screening of the 1974 horror film, 7 p.m. Dec. 11, Dormouse Theatre, 1030 Portage St., dormousetheatre.com.
VISUAL ARTS
Kalamazoo Institute of Arts 314 S. Park St., 349-7775, kiarts.org
Exhibitions
Washi Transformed: New Expressions in Japanese Paper — Works by 9 Japanese artists, through Jan. 11.
Kirk Newman Art School Faculty Review — Showcasing 50 Southwest Michigan artists, through Jan. 25.
TaekyeomLee:Designed,Printed&Fired — 3D printing with traditional ceramic making, through March 8.
Events
Art Bridges Access for All — Free admission on Thursdays, 11 a.m.–8 p.m.
Kirk Newman Art School Holiday Art Sale — Works by students & faculty, 4–8 p.m. Dec. 5, 9 a.m.–3 p.m. Dec. 6; members only, 4–8 p.m. Dec. 4.
Gallery Gathering: Washi Transformed: New ExpressionsinJapanesePaper — A look at works from this exhibition, 5:30 p.m. Dec. 11; registration encouraged.
BetweentheFolds— Screening of a documentary on artists & scientists applying the art of origami, noon Dec. 17; registration encouraged.
Book Discussion — Of Marilyn Chase’s Everything She Touched: The Life of Ruth Asawa, 2 p.m. Dec. 17; registration encouraged.
Gallery Shop Meet & Greet —Meet local artists as you shop, 4–7 p.m. Dec. 18.
Simple Folded Books — Create a book from a single piece of paper, 11 a.m.–3 p.m. Dec. 20.
Richmond Center for Visual Arts Western Michigan University, 387-2436, wmich.edu/art
DeVries Student Gallery — Works by Hope Donovan & Lucas Gilbert, Dec. 2–13.
Other Venues
Lynn Sures: Glancing at the Unseen — Mixedmedia works examining geology, physics & the origins of humans, through Jan. 14, Kalamazoo Book Arts Center, 326 W. Kalamazoo Ave., Suite 103A, kalbookarts.org.
Art Hop — Art on the theme of “Create,” honoring the beauty of handmade art, 5–8 p.m. Dec. 5, downtown Kalamazoo, 342–5059, kalamazooarts.org.
LIBRARY & LITERARY EVENTS
Comstock Township Library 6130 King Highway, 345-0136, comstocklibrary.org
Holiday Open House — Treats, crafts, Mrs. Claus & live music by Selkie, 1–3 p.m. Dec. 6.
Nightmares Before Christmas — A Jeopardystyle game about spooky holiday traditions, 6 p.m. Dec. 11; registration required.
CTL Writers — Group discussion of writing, 10 a.m. Dec. 12.
State Rep. Matt Hall Listening Hour — Converse with the representative’s staff, 1 p.m. Dec. 17.
Pride Book Club — Discuss E.M. Forster's Maurice, 6 p.m. Dec. 17, in-person & online; registration required.
Shelf Assured Book Club — Choose an awardwinning book to read & share with the group, 11 a.m. Dec. 20; registration required.
Adulting 101: Car Maintenance Basics — For young adults or those wanting a refresher, 6 p.m. Dec. 29; registration required.
Kalamazoo Public Library 553-7800, kpl.gov
Friends of KPL Annual Gift Book Sale — Gift-quality books, DVDs & CDs, noon–6 p.m. Wednesdays, 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Thursday–Saturday, through Dec. 27, Friends of KPL Bookstore, Lower Level, Central Library, 315 S. Rose St., kpl.gov/ friends.
KPL Tech Days — Personal session to learn technology & the internet, 10 a.m.–2 p.m. Dec. 2, 6, 9, 13, 16, 20, 23, 27 & 30, Central Library; sessions are first-come, first-served.
Do More, More Naturally — Online workshop on aligning one’s actions & one's strengths, 9:30–11:30 a.m. Dec. 3; registration required.
Parchment Community Library
401 S. Riverview Drive, 343-7747, parchmentlibrary.org
Holiday Chocolate & Parchment Wassailing — Hot cocoa & cookies, 6–8 p.m. Dec. 3.
Parchment Book Group — Discuss Jean Meltzer’s The Matzah Ball, 6 p.m. Dec. 8.
Mystery Book Club — Discuss Colleen Cambridge’s A Fashionably French Murder, 6:30 p.m. Dec. 16.
Author Visit — Meet Colleen Cambridge, 11 a.m. Dec. 17.
Portage District Library
300 Library Lane, 329-4544, portagelibrary.info
Kalamazoo County Historical Society — Local history speaker & discussion, 7 p.m. Dec. 1.
Muffins & the Market — Discuss stock market trends, 9 a.m. Dec. 4 & 18.
Friends of the Library Book Sale — 9 a.m.–3 p.m. Dec. 6; members-only pre-sale, 4–5:30 p.m. Dec. 5.
The Mediterranean Way — Health benefits of the Mediterranean diet, 6 p.m. Dec. 9; registration required.
International Mystery Book Discussion — Discuss Hannelore Cayre’s The Godmother, 7 p.m. Dec. 11.
Documentary & Donuts — View Jiro Dreams of Sushi, 10 a.m.–1 p.m. Dec. 12; coffee & donuts served.
Kalamazoo Macintosh Users Group — Help with Mac computers, programs & accessories, 9 a.m.–noon Dec. 13.
Saturday Sound Immersion — Wind Willow Consortium plays instruments for a well-being experience, 10:30 a.m. Dec. 13; registration required.
Plots & Pages: A Local Writers Group — Discuss the craft of writing, 6–8 p.m. Dec. 16.
Light Lunch & Literature — Discuss Fredrik Backman’s Deal of a Lifetime, noon Dec. 22; registration required.
Family Movie and Craft Drop-In — Viewing of Toy Story, 1–3 p.m. Dec. 30.
Richland Community Library
8951 Park St., 629-9085, richlandlibrary.org
Romance Book Club: Between the Pages — Discuss Kerrigan Bryne’s The Highwayman, with gift book exchange & craft, 6–8 p.m. Dec. 3, Ned’s on Gull Lake, 15450 M-43, Hickory Corners; registration required.
Holiday Family Photos at the Library — Seyanna Grace Photography provides a free 5-minute session, 1–3 p.m. Dec. 6; registration required.
Adult Dungeons&Dragons Bravo Team — New crusade each month, 5–8 p.m. Dec. 10 & 3–6 p.m. Dec. 17; registration required.
Richland Area Writer’s Group — Noon Dec. 12.
Happy Birthday, Jane Austen! — Tea time with etiquette demo, 6 p.m. Dec. 16; registration required.
RCL Book Club — Discuss Wade Rouse’s Magic Season, 6 p.m. Dec. 18.
Van Buren District Library — Antwerp Sunshine Branch 24283 Front St., Mattawan, 668-2534, vbdl.org
On a Lighter Note — Book club for adults, 5:30 p.m. Dec. 9.
Adult Book Club — 5:30 p.m. Dec. 17. Vicksburg District Library 215 S. Michigan Ave., 649-1648, vicksburglibrary.org
Bridge Club — 9:30 a.m.–noon Tuesdays. Book Club for Adults — Selection available at the circulation desk, 9:30 a.m. Dec. 4.
Scrabble Club for Adults — All skill levels welcome, 1 p.m. Dec. 9.
Writer’s Motivational Group — Set goals & report progress, 4 p.m. Dec. 11.
MUSEUMS
Kalamazoo Valley Museum
230 N. Rose St., 373-7990, kalamazoomuseum.org
DancingwithLife:MexicanMasks — Historic & contemporary masks, through Jan. 4.
Am I an American or Am I Not? — Exploring unfair treatment in the U.S., through Jan. 4.
Other Venues
Winter Wonderland — Outdoor driving experience with lights, music, decorations & indoor activities, 5–9 p.m. on select dates, through Jan. 4, with fireworks on Fridays, Gilmore Car Museum, 6865 Hickory Road, Hickory Corners, 671-5089, gilmorecarmuseum.org.
NATURE
Monthly Beginning Birding Walk — 9–11 a.m. Dec. 6; meet at Wolf Lake State Fish Hatchery's second parking lot, 34270 County Road 652, Mattawan, kalamazooaudubon.org.
Buy Local: Art & Gift Fair — With free admission to the trails, 9 a.m.–4 p.m. Dec. 6, Kalamazoo Nature Center, 7000 N. Westnedge Ave., 381-1574, naturecenter.org.
TELETHERAPISTS
Birds & Coffee Chat — Online discussion about rare bird sightings in Michigan, 10 a.m. Dec. 10, Kellogg Bird Sanctuary, 12685 East C Ave., Augusta, 671-2510; registration required, birdsanctuary@ kbs.msu.edu.
Festival of Lights Hike — An out-and-back hike of up to 6 miles along Linear Park, behind Kellogg Manor House, with Battle Creek’s "12 Days of Christmas" displayed in lights; hike begins at 6:45 p.m. Dec. 11 at Clara’s on the River, 44 McCamly St., Battle Creek; meet at 5:30 p.m. for dinner at Clara’s; northcountrytrail.org/events.
Online Viewing Session — Utilizing the Kalamazoo Astronomical Society's remote telescope in Arizona, 8:30 p.m. Dec. 13 online (cloud date, Dec. 20); register at kasonline.org.
MISCELLANEOUS
Underwear Party — Donate warm winter clothing & underwear to Ministry With Community & enjoy live music, 5–7 p.m. Dec. 1, Lawrence Education Center, Beacon Kalamazoo, 1521 Gull Road; Ministry's donation wish list at ministrywithcommunity.org or on Amazon.com.
Holiday Card & Tree Walk — Large holiday cards & decorated trees, Celery Flats, 7335 Garden Lane, Portage, Dec. 1–31.
Parchment Wassailing — Trolley rides to businesses featuring holiday treats, caroling & entertainment, 6–8 p.m. Dec. 3, 650 Riverview Drive, Parchment, 349-3785, facebook.com/ ParchmentWassailing.
Holiday Walk & Market — Handcrafted gifts by local artisans, 11 a.m.–4 p.m. Dec. 6, 13 & 20; Jingle & Mingle, 6–8 p.m. Dec. 3; Holiday Spice Tea, 2–3:30 p.m. Dec. 9 & 16, Kellogg Manor House, 3700 E. Gull Lake Drive, Hickory Corners, 269-671-2160.
Richland’s Wassailing Celebration — Carols, crafts, treats & live music, downtown Richland, 5–8 p.m. Dec. 4, richlandlibrary.org.
Holly Jolly Trolley — Free trolley in downtown Kalamazoo, Dec. 4–7, 11–14, 18–21, 23–24 & 31; for route & times, visit downtownkalamazoosanta.com.
Santa’s Workshop — Free event with Santa, crafts, activities, Dec. 4–7, 11–14 & 18–24, City Centre, 125 Kalamazoo Mall; for schedule, visit downtownkalamazoosanta.com.
Downtown Gingerbread Contest — View gingerbread house creations, Dec. 5–20, 20 sites in downtown Kalamazoo; for locations,visit communityhomeworks.org/news/ gingerbreadhousekzoo.
Holiday Greens Sale — Locally made seasonal gifts, evergreen door swags & floral arrangements, 10 a.m.–6 p.m. Dec. 5, 9 a.m.–3 p.m. Dec. 6, Portage Zhang Senior Center, 203 E. Centre Ave., kalamazoogardencouncil.org.
Michigan Off-Road Orama — 4x4s, ATVs, motorcycles, & overland camping gear, 2–8 p.m. Dec. 5; 10 a.m.–6 p.m. Dec. 6; 10 a.m.–3 p.m. Dec. 7, Main, South & North rooms, Kalamazoo County Expo Center, 2900 Lake St., 219-575-8502, offroadorama.com.
Christmas at Wings Arts & Crafts Show — 340 booths, 9 a.m.–4 p.m. Dec. 6 & 10 a.m.–4 p.m.
Dec. 7, Wings Event Center, 3600 Vanrick Drive, wingseventcenter.com/Events.
Girl Scouts Christmas Craft Show — More than 40 vendors, 10 a.m.–3 p.m. Dec. 6, Girl Scouts Building, 601 W. Maple St., discoverkalamazoo.com.
Holidays with the Vicksburg Historical Society — Model train layout, photo opportunity & craft, 11 a.m.–4 p.m. Dec. 6, 13, 20 & 27, Vicksburg Historic Village, 300 N. Richardson, Vicksburg, vicksburghistory.org.
Traditional Holiday & Tree Lighting Celebration — Caroling, Santa & Mrs. Claus, ice sculptures & live music, 6–8 p.m. Dec. 6, Celery Flats, 7335 Garden Lane, portagemi.gov.
Kalamazoo Record & CD Show — New & used LPs & CDs, 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Dec. 7, Room A, Kalamazoo County Expo Center, 734-604-2540, rerunrecords.com.
2025 Community Arts Awards Ceremony — Recognizing Kalamazoo area artists, arts organizations & supporters, 7 p.m. Dec. 9, Lake Auditorium, KVCC, kalamazooarts.org; RSVP encouraged.
Christmas Craft Show — 220 booths, 9 a.m.–3 p.m. Dec. 13 & 10 a.m.–3 p.m. Dec. 14, Kalamazoo County Expo Center Main & South rooms, 903–5820.
Christmas in the Burg — Food, winter farmers market, tree lighting, entertainment & parade, Dec. 13, downtown Vicksburg, with activities starting at noon, vicksburgmi.org.
Holiday Ice Revue — Greater Kalamazoo Skating Association members perform, 2:30 & 7 p.m. Dec. 13, Wings Event Center, wingseventcenter.com/ Events.
Kalamazoo Indoor Flea Market — New & used items, antiques & crafts, 9 a.m.–3 p.m. Dec. 20, Kalamazoo County Expo Center South Room, 383-8778.
Santa Skate — Skate with Santa to holiday music & for photo opportunities, 1–3 p.m. Dec. 20, Millennium Park Ice Rink, 280 Romence Road, portagemi.gov.
Kalamazoo Reptile & Exotic Pet Expo — Reptiles, amphibians, small mammals & exotic pets, 10 a.m.–3 p.m. Dec. 21, Kalamazoo County Expo Center South Room, kalamazooreptileexpo.com.
New Year’s Eve Skate — Music & party lighting, 5–8 p.m. Dec. 31, Millennium Park Ice Rink, portagemi.gov.
New Year’s Fest — An all-ages showcase with performances at outdoor, indoor & tented venues, 6 p.m.–midnight Dec. 31, downtown Kalamazoo, with ball drop & fireworks at midnight, facebook. com/NewYearsFest.
Lucinda Stinson (continued from page 38)
trajectory at Borgess (Hospital, now Beacon Kalamazoo), I was tapped to go into leadership as the supervisor for the Pulmonary Services Department and then director of operations of a neuro-ortho trauma care center.
From there, I went on to start an actual health plan — with the help of Borgess and Bronson hospitals as collaborators — to ensure people in our community received health care coverage. I ran that for several years and then became the director of operations for the Family Health Center and executive director of the Kalamazoo County Health Plan. We ran that successfully until the Affordable Care Act, when all those lines that we had under our health plan merged in.
From there, I took another twist and became the deputy director of the Kalamazoo County Health Department. I worked for the county for seven years and then decided corporate America is great, but it's time for me to take care of myself, because it's very stressful. I'm a two-time breast cancer survivor. I had to step away.
I was in the process of figuring out what I wanted to do next and received a call from Julie VanderNoot, the then-board chair of Lending Hands, wondering if I was interested because the founder, John Hilliard, was going to retire. I had a very engaging conversation with the board, some volunteers and Miss Maggie Bodley, who’s known me since the cradle. They asked, “Will you give us a two-year commitment?” I looked at Miss Maggie, and she gave me the nod. Almost 10 years later, that two-year commitment has multiplied. How did it feel to be notified that you were the recipient of the NAACP’s 2025 Humanitarian Award?
My daughter, Lucretia Stinson, put my name in. You raise your kids and want to make sure that you're a good role model for them. That was the ultimate tribute and recognition that I didn't do too bad raising my daughter. It was quite the honor and very overwhelming. God gives you talents and gifts that you are supposed to use for the betterment of the world, and if I can just have a small portion where I can do something that's impactful and everlasting, then I've done what I was called to do.
What would you like people to know about Lending Hands?
I always say that John Hilliard was one man with one vision. He started Lending Hands in his garage in 2005. He’s from Kalamazoo and came back from Arizona to take care of his ill mother, and when he did, he realized she needed medical equipment. It's expensive, so he went to garage sales, started collecting equipment, took it back to his house, cleaned and repaired it, and then redistributed it to the community. The Kalamazoo Community Foundation gave him $5,000 to open a storefront on Portage Road. The first volunteer he had was Miss Maggie Bodley. Their first year, they served 42 individuals. Since that time, we have served over 50,000 individuals in this region. We saved them not only hundreds of thousands, but millions of dollars.
We were growing so much that in 2022 I leased two more spaces in the same complex, but we still had to go outside our building to get to our wheelchairs. We are all senior citizens, and in the wintertime it was dangerous to get this equipment. We found the place at 4570 Commercial Avenue, and after six months of building it out we opened on Nov. 3, 2023. It has done a lot for the volunteers, because it gives us a much larger, brighter, safer space, and everything is curbside.
Lending Hands is an organization that we run efficiently and effectively by the work and dedication of over 40 volunteers. We're excited to serve more people and bring in people from the community that want to volunteer. The School of Occupational Therapy and Physical Therapy at Western Michigan University brings their students. If you're going to be a physical therapist or occupational therapist, you're going to use some of the equipment we're distributing. What better way than to get in there, take the equipment apart, clean it, reassemble it and understand what it is that you're doing so you’re not unfamiliar once you graduate? Right now we primarily need cleaners because we get a lot of equipment in, and I have one full-time cleaner. Sometimes we have to put people on a wait list, and I don't like doing that, because people need this.
— Interview by Jordan Bradley, edited for length and clarity
Lucinda Stinson From community health care to Lending Hands
Lucinda Stinson knows the health care system from just about every angle — she has served in the roles of clinician, supervisor, administrator, director and beyond.
She is currently CEO of Lending Hands, a nonprofit and primarily volunteer-staffed organization that provides medical equipment free of charge to individuals throughout Southwest Michigan. She has served in this role since 2019.
Earlier this year Stinson’s impressive contributions were recognized by the NAACP’s Metropolitan Kalamazoo Branch, which awarded her its 2025 Humanitarian Award.
In light of Stinson’s body of work, the word “dedication” comes to mind, something she credits to her upbringing.
“My parents owned and operated the first African-American business in Kalamazoo. It was a grocery store in the 1940s until we closed in the 1970s after my dad died,” she says. “I saw what they did for their community. Even though I was very young, it left a lasting impression upon me, as far as giving back to the community and working in the community and knowing your community. That really was the foundation that propelled me to where I am today, and I give them all the credit for that.”
How did you get where you are today?
I spent the last 45 years in the health care industry, starting my career in the mid-'70s as a registered respiratory therapist. In my
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Top Tips for Stress-Free Holiday Flying
By Kalamazoo/Battle Creek International Airport Staff
The holidays are one of the busiest — and most meaningful — times to fly. Whether you’re leaving Michigan to see family, chasing sunshine, or welcoming loved ones to Kalamazoo, a little planning can go a long way toward keeping your travels merry and bright. Here are some tips from your local airport team to make your holiday journey as smooth as possible:
Pack Smart and Light
Start by packing with security in mind. Keep liquids, gels, and aerosols in 3.4-ounce containers inside a clear quartsized bag and place it near the top of your carry-on for easy screening. If you’re bringing gifts, skip the wrapping paper — TSA may need to inspect them. Instead, pack wrapping supplies or gift bags to finish the job once you arrive. And don’t forget: bulky winter coats, boots, and scarves take up space. Pack layers of clothing you can re-wear and leave extra room for those after-Christmas treasures.
Arrive Early and Relax
During the holidays, airports everywhere see higher passenger volumes and occasional weather delays. While Kalamazoo’s airport is quick and convenient, the airlines recommend arriving at least 90 minutes before your scheduled departure to allow time for check-in, baggage drop, and security screening. Parking is close and convenient, but it can fill up quickly during peak holiday travel times.
Breeze Through Security
You may have your boarding pass on your phone, but it may be a good backup to have your boarding pass printed ahead of time. Have your ID and boarding pass ready before entering the checkpoint. Empty your pockets and remember to remove large electronics and liquids. If you travel often, consider enrolling in TSA PreCheck, which helps you move through security more quickly and with fewer steps. You may not experience long lines in Kalamazoo, but you may upon return if you’re traveling to a large airport.
Plan for Winter Weather
Michigan winters can bring snow, ice, and delays, but airports like AZO are ready with 24/7 snow removal teams and deicing equipment to keep flights moving safely. Even so, it’s smart to sign up for flight alerts through your airline’s app and allow extra travel time to and from the airport. It’s also important to keep an eye out on the weather in your connecting city as that may impact the flight coming to Kalamazoo or your connection along your way.
From all of us at Kalamazoo/Battle Creek International Airport, we wish you safe travels and joyful reunions this holiday season. And, as you shop local, remember to fly local. When you do your trip starts easier and ends closer to home.
