Quote Of The Day

"Be yourself; everyone else is already taken." - Oscar Wilde

Celery Flats is rising from tornado devastation with an innovative approach that's catching statewide attention.

Eighteen months after a destructive tornado stripped Portage's historic park, the community has launched the Library of Trees — a groundbreaking project that's turning disaster into opportunity.

Rather than randomly replanting, volunteers and city staff are mapping surviving trees to create a living database of climate resilience. Annie Pryor, the city's recreation program manager, explains that these survivors are "telling us stories about soil health, temperature shifts, and pest resistance."

This data-driven strategy is guiding Portage's largest reforestation effort ever — 250 new trees this fall funded by $150,000 in state grants.

Twin Lakes Nursery will handle professional planting under a $182,500 contract, while community volunteers continue weekend mapping sessions and the popular "Leaf-A-Legacy" donation program.

Early results show higher survival rates for native species selected through the program compared to previous random plantings. Other Michigan communities are now requesting information about Portage's innovative approach to storm recovery.

Portage High School’s Forgotten Greenhouse Springs Back to Life

For nearly a decade, a small, weathered greenhouse tucked behind Portage Northern High School sat mostly unnoticed — a relic of an old horticulture program that slowly faded away. But in the last week, a quiet revival has begun, thanks to a team of students and teachers who saw potential in the peeling panels and overgrown planters.

The “Greenhouse Restoration Crew,” a student-led volunteer group formed just two weeks ago, has started clearing out old irrigation lines, replacing damaged glass, and replanting the first test beds of cold-tolerant greens. What began as a simple idea for an after-school project has quickly taken on a life of its own.

The students’ plan is ambitious: transform the forgotten greenhouse into a working micro-farm that will supply fresh produce for the school’s culinary program, local food pantries, and eventually a small student-run farmers market. Teachers say the project has already drawn interest from environmental clubs, science classes, and even local garden centers offering starter plants and soil.

The first seedlings are expected to sprout within days — a fitting symbol for a project that’s already planting new roots in Portage’s future.

UPCOMING EVENTS

Holiday Theatre & Performances

A Very Kalamazoo Christmas

Dec 4–10 | Farmers Alley Theatre, Kalamazoo
A warm, funny holiday production celebrating local stories and seasonal charm. Multiple evening and matinee shows throughout the week.

The Nutcracker – Ballet Arts Ensemble

Dec 7 & 8 | Chenery Auditorium
A community-favorite holiday ballet featuring live orchestral accompaniment and local dancers.

Community & Family Holiday Events

Santa’s Workshop

Dec 6 & 7 | Downtown Kalamazoo (various locations)
Hands-on kids’ crafts, meet-and-greet with Santa, and family-friendly holiday activities.

Holiday Art Sale

Dec 5 & 6 | Downtown Kalamazoo
Local artists offer handmade gifts, prints, pottery, jewelry, and holiday decor. Great for finding unique items while supporting area creators.

Portage Winter Blast at City Hall

Dec 7 | Portage City Hall
Tree-lighting, carolers, kids’ crafts, warm drinks, and community celebrations. A great family stop for holiday photos.

Markets, Makers & Shopping

Kalamazoo Makers Holiday Market

Dec 6–7 | Kalamazoo Farmers Market (Indoor)
Regional artisans present winter goods, décor, baked items, and crafts. Ideal for supporting local small businesses.

Kalamazoo Record & CD Show

Dec 7 | Kalamazoo County Expo Center
Vinyl, CDs, posters, memorabilia, and hard-to-find music treasures. A staple regional show for collectors.

Festivals, Expos & Specialty Events

Michigan Off-Road-O-Rama

Dec 5–7 | Kalamazoo County Expo Center
A weekend expo celebrating off-road vehicles, accessories, demos, and the outdoor lifestyle. Good for families or gear enthusiasts.

Kalamazoo Holiday Lantern Walks

Dec 5–8 | Downtown Kalamazoo
Guided stroll through downtown’s historic areas, illuminated with lanterns and holiday lights. Light storytelling mixed with local history.

Live Music & Nightlife

Holiday Jazz Night – The Union Cabaret & Grill

Dec 6 | Downtown Kalamazoo
Local musicians present a cozy holiday jazz set. Great dinner-and-music pairing.

Acoustic Winter Session – Old Dog Tavern

Dec 7 | Old Dog Tavern
Relaxed evening acoustic sets from regional performers. A warm, festive atmosphere with craft drinks and food.

Workshops & Creative Events

Sip & Paint: Winter Cottage Scene

Dec 6 | Kalamazoo Craft House
Holiday-themed guided painting class. Bring-your-own snacks; materials included.

Holiday Cookie Decorating Workshop

Dec 7 | Portage Community Center
Instruction, supplies, and take-home boxes for cookies. Popular for both adults and families.

Outdoor & Seasonal Activities

Winter Trails Kickoff – Portage Celery Flats

Dec 7 | Celery Flats Pavilion
Season-opening nature walks, hot cocoa, and family-friendly cold-weather activities.

Kalamazoo Holiday Lights Self-Guided Tours

Now through Dec 10 | Various Neighborhoods
Popular neighborhoods include Westnedge Hill, Milwood, and Winchell. Routes updated weekly by local volunteers.

Newer Restaurants

Tavern 32

A casual restaurant and bar located at 8896 N 32nd Street in Richland, Michigan, near Portage, Michigan. Known for its relaxed atmosphere and approachable menu, it serves as a popular gathering place for both locals and visitors. The establishment emphasizes hearty comfort food, friendly service, and accessible dining with indoor and outdoor seating options.

Menu and Cuisine

Tavern 32’s menu focuses on American-style bar fare with a refined touch. Guest favorites include burgers, wraps, and sandwiches—especially the tavern burger, buffalo chicken wrap, and prime rib gyro. Seasonal entrées such as cherry-glazed salmon and hearty salads like the chicken chop and Waldorf provide variety. Sides such as sweet potato fries and crab rangoons are often singled out for praise.

Atmosphere and Experience

The restaurant features a rustic yet modern décor, a full bar, and a welcoming environment suitable for casual lunches, family dinners, or after-work drinks. Amenities include free Wi-Fi, ADA-compliant facilities, and dog-friendly outdoor seating. Many reviews highlight its attentive, upbeat staff and the balanced energy between its lively bar area and quieter patio section.

Background and Reception

Originally associated with the now-closed North 11 (Gull Road) restaurant, Tavern 32 continues that venue’s tradition of offering quality food in a friendly neighborhood setting. Patrons consistently commend the establishment for its solid value, consistent food quality, and personable service. With ratings around 4.3–4.5 stars on major review platforms, it’s regarded as one of Richland’s standout dining options. 

Notable Features

• Heated and covered outdoor seating for year-round comfort

• Happy hour specials and private dining availability

• Emphasis on inclusivity and accessibility

• Strong local following for reliable comfort food and cocktails

Tavern 32 blends the spirit of a neighborhood tavern with the polish of a modern American eatery, offering approachable meals and a welcoming space to unwind.

https://www.tavern32.com/

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