Out and About Blog by Norm Stutesman

I was fortunate to spend most of last weekend in Mackinaw City. The trip up and back was filled with fall colors. Unfortunately, I made the trip alone, so I couldn’t share the excitement of the colors with anyone. It’s sort of like taking a trip to Yellowstone or Cedar Point by yourself. You really need someone with you to …

“Volunteer….the world is run by those who show up.” I truly believe this. As a matter of fact, I’ve been known to have this as my motto. I enjoy volunteering, and the other volunteers that I spend time with are among the finest people you’d ever want to be associated with. The only pay you receive is a good night’s …

The 2011 St. Joseph County Grange Fair is now in the history books. The numbers are not in yet, so we don’t know if the fair was a monetary success or not, but from what I’ve heard, everyone seemed to have a good time. For once, the weather cooperated, so I’m sure the numbers were good. I’ve heard from some …

The St. Joseph County Grange Fair is now in progress. It’s too early to tell how the fair will do as far as profit margins and attendance are concerned. A lot depends on the weather. Usually “Fair Week” means plenty of rain, which is a shame, but this is Michigan and this is September. The entertainment is top notch, the …

This past weekend was a mixture of sadness and celebration. Saturday the funeral for Three Rivers Fire Lt. Erika Bloomfield was held. She fought the bravest battle with cancer, but finally succumbed last week. I’ve heard more than once that she had “spunk”, and during my brief time of working with her, I found that to be true. She didn’t …

As promised, here are the answers to last week’s trivia questions: The Russians celebrate the October Revolution in November. The Canary Islands in the Pacific are named after dogs (canines). King George’s first name was Albert. We get cat gut from sheep and horses. I hope that everyone enjoyed a safe and relaxing Labor Day weekend. I don’t know where …

Back in the day, there were about 21 gas stations in the Three Rivers area. Self-service didn’t exist, and you would get your windshield cleaned, oil checked, and have your tire pressure checked. It also wasn’t uncommon to tell the station attendant to put in a buck’s worth of gasoline. The latter is very difficult to do these days. There …

The Carnegie Center for the Arts thanks all involved in their recent Summer Full of Art. It was a huge success with over 150 students of all ages taking a variety of classes in art and music. The classes were directed by seven teachers and four student assistants. Students are invited to check with the Carnegie next summer and join …

Ahh, summer. Summer is swimming in a refreshing pool, hot dogs or burgers on a grill, chilled watermelon, and a glass of lemonade so cold that it’s difficult to hold on to the glass. Summer is also a nice meal consisting of a fresh garden salad. My doctor would opt for the latter. If a fresh salad tickles your taste …

This last May, a new pet foster care network called “Up-Cycled Pets” was formed. Last Sunday, August 7, a “Meet and Greet” adoption event was held at the TSC store in Sturgis. Another “Meet and Greet” adoption event is scheduled for this Saturday, August 13, at the Diamond Creek Country Store in Three Rivers. The store is located on Johnnycake …