🌱 The Cinderella Project Returns + Dogs Off Leash In Local Parks

Hey, neighbors! It's me, Michelle Paul, your host of the Kalamazoo-Portage Patch newsletter — here to tell you everything you need to know about what's happening locally. Including news on these three stories.

But first, your local weather:

• Monday: Mostly cloudy. High: 48 Low: 26.
• Tuesday: Mostly cloudy. High: 49 Low: 29.

Business owners and marketers in Kalamazoo-Portage: Do you want to build awareness with local customers? I have a limited number of sponsorships available to introduce our readers to local businesses they need to know. Click here to learn more.

Here are the top three stories in Kalamazoo-Portage today:

1. This Wednesday, Mar. 29, you have the opportunity to get rid of old and unwanted electronics for free depending on the item. DeNooyer Chevrolet and DeNooyer Ford are joining hands with their event where you can drop off these goods from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Kalamazoo or Vicksburg dealerships. You can click here for more information regarding items and what will not be accepted. (WKZO)
2. The Cinderella Project returned to Kalamazoo on Friday, Mar. 24, helping young girls "say yes to the dress" for prom in an affordable manner. Volunteers helped girls find the perfect dress, shoes, and jewelry for free as a way to save from the cost of expensive dresses. (FOX 17 West Michigan News)
3. The Portage Department of Parks and Recreation has seen an increase in reports of dogs being off their leash in parks in the past year. To remind park users, the City of Portage emphasizes Michigan law that requires dogs to be properly leashed and Portage Parks and Recreation's rule that mandates all dogs to be on a leash in their parks. The South Westnedge Dog Park is available for dog owners who want to let their dogs off their leash, and more information can be found on the city of Portage Parks and Recreation website. (WWMT)

From our sponsor:

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Today and tomorrow in Kalamazoo-Portage:

Monday, March 27

• Reading Together Listening Session - Oshtemo Branch Library (6:00 PM)

Tuesday, March 28

• Dog Man Release Party - Kalamazoo Public Library (All Day)
• DIY Sticker Making - Washington Square Branch Library (1:00 PM)
• Build With Katherine - Oshtemo Branch Library (4:00 PM)

From my notebook:

• Western Michigan University's figure skating team had a season-high score earlier this month and took bronze in the U.S. National Championships. This is now the second year the team brought home a national medal. (Western Michigan University via Facebook)
• National Beer Day is on Apr. 7! Here are six reasons you should spend it right here in Kalamazoo. (Discover Kalamazoo via Facebook)
• KYD Net is accepting applications for grants up to $75,000 supporting summer youth programming. The application will be open to nonprofits and community partners working with nonprofits. A training webinar will be held tomorrow, Mar. 28. (The City of Kalamazoo, Michigan via Facebook)

Now you're in the loop and ready to head out the door on this Monday! I'll see you soon.

— Michelle Paul

About me: Michelle Paul is a Utah-based writer and photographer with a professional background in content management and registered nursing. When not working on projects ranging from photo editing to copywriting, they enjoy traveling, video games, and expanding their skills.