KalamazooBlog.com

Kalamazoo Highlights

Since 1999, Southwest Michigan First has been a local organization committed to creating and supporting a thriving economy through entrepreneurial innovation. They have created a top list of why living in the region is cool.

Here are just a few from the list:

• #3- Derek Jeter
• #7- Creation of big yellow taxi cabs
• #16- At one point in time, 90% of the world's peppermint oil was supplied from A.M. Todd - a Kalamazoo company
• #30- Home of the United Kennel Club
• #35- Kalamazoo County is the leading producer of bedding plant in the U.S.
• #58- Westnedge Avenue is the second busiest street in Michigan
• #66- Oakwood Bistro ranks among the nations 100 top restuarants as selected  by culinary professionals

Stamp Out Hunger

This Saturday May 10, 2008 is the Annual Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive hosted by the National Association of Letter Carriers. Kalamazoo area letter carriers will be collecting non-perishable food items that are set out by your mailbox. (No expired items or glass containers) Local food pantries will benefit from their collection. Many thanks to the efforts and energy of our local food carriers!

Greek Festival

The 2008 Greek Festival organized by Theo and Stacy's is slated for June 5, 6 and 7, 2008 at the Arcadia Festival Place in beautiful downtown Kalamazoo. In it's 32 year history, this festival has been known to kick off the summer season in Kalamazoo on Super Saturday. Learn more about this year's festival.

Cinco de Mayo

Downtown Kalamazoo will host the first citywide Cinco de Mayo Celebration on Saturday May 10, 2008 at the Arcadia Festival Site from noon until 11:30 pm. Highlights include:

• Los Bandits
  
• Orquesta Sensacional (Salsa Band)
  
• Mariachi
  
• Mexican dancers
  
• Pinatas
  
• Mexican/Latin Food
  
• Variety of vendors
  
• Salsa dancing competition

Kleinstuck Preserve

Just away from the intersection of Oakland Avenue and Winchell quietly sits the Kleinstuck Preserve. Truly a natural gem in the heart of Kalamazoo, the Preserve is a destination for neighbors, wildlife and many species of plants. Over the winter months, the Stewards of Kleinstuck, have embarked on a long range plan to help rejuvenate the Preserve and restore many of the native plants and forestation.