Out and About for July 29th, 2008

A week from today is a big day in St. Joseph County. August 5 is a day when, once again, you have the opportunity to exercise your right to vote. Voting citizens in this county do not have a very good reputation for exercising this right. Actually, it’s pretty shameful. Case in point: Wal-Mart opened their doors in Three Rivers on August 8, 2007. More adults showed up for the grand opening than voted the day before for the millage for the St. Joe County Transportation Authority. Thankfully, the millage passed. Quite a few people’s futures depend on what you do next Tuesday. It’s YOUR business how you vote, but do the right thing and vote. Many people have made the ultimate sacrifice to insure that you have that right. Excuse me now while I step down off that soapbox. Read more

Out and About for July 22nd, 2008

As I write about what’s going on in the Three Rivers area, I hope you readers realize just how many activities and events are FREE. In this age of high gas prices, you really have to look hard for anything that’s really a bargain, let alone free. Every summer the Kalamazoo Symphony Orchestra puts on a concert in Scidmore Park. Attendance is usually pretty good, but there are still tables that sit empty. Various companies, merchants and civic organizations sponsor these tables. Each table has either a fruit platter or cheese platter to be shared by those wishing to sit there. Read more

Out and About for July 15th, 2008

One of the advantages of living in Three Rivers is the number of public parks that are available for all to enjoy. They range in size from a small park, with maybe a bench to sit on, to a large park like Scidmore, complete with a playground, picnic areas, popcorn stand, and even a petting zoo. On any given evening, you can see families walking and playing together. Sometimes, you can see the family dog on a leash. It’s almost like a Norman Rockwell painting. Riverside Cemetery is an interesting place to go for a stroll. It’s interesting to look at some of the dates on the tombstones. When visiting the cemetery, please remember that dogs, even on a leash, are NOT permitted. Fido would much prefer to visit one of the other beautiful parks where dogs are always welcome. Read more

Out and About for July 8th, 2008

Before I forget, I mentioned last week that I would provide more information on the Summer Full of Art at the Carnegie Center for the Arts. I also mentioned that if you were interested in Session I, you must register by July 7 and that was yesterday. I will therefore still list the classes available, but they will be for Session II, which starts July 28. If I haven’t already confused you, then please read on. Read more

Out and About for July 1st, 2008

Welcome to July. This month we are fortunate to have the Kalamazoo Symphony Orchestra coming to Three Rivers for their annual concert in the park. The date to remember is July 17. I’ll have more information on this special event in a week or so.

Many of you still drawing a paycheck will probably have this coming Friday off. As a result, you’ll end up with a three-day weekend. It, of course, is in celebration of Independence Day, better known as the Fourth of July. It is another one of those days when we congregate with family and friends, gather around the outdoor grill and forget about that diet as we fix ourselves just one more hot dog or brat. As for me, I plan to take in as many parades as possible. No matter what your plans are for this special day and extended weekend, let’s not forget the true meaning of the Fourth of July. Constantine is probably the closest town with a parade, and it steps off at 11 A.M. on the Fourth. Read more