KALAMAZOO, MI -- In late November I compiled a list of Kalamazoo-centric gift ideas, that is, items made locally and/or reflecting the area in some way.
My preliminary list was so big and included so many cool items, I decided to split it into two segments. Here is Round 2.
If you have other suggestions, please share them in the comment section below. And you can read Part 1 of my Kalamazoo gift guide on MLive.com.
Happy holidays.
Kalamazoo Kettle Corn's Holiday Corn
What: In addition to its array of popcorn, the Kalamazoo business is making a Wild Cherry and Pistachio flavored popcorn in green and red. The business also sells a variety of holiday-themed baskets and other packages.
Available: Kalamazoo Kettle Corn, 3415 Ravine Road, as well as several other retailers (go here for the list).
Cost: $4.49 for eight-ounce bag; $8.49 for 16-ounce bag; $11.99 for 14-ounce tub
Contact: 269-382-1767, www.kalamazookettlecorn.com
Kalamazoo-made candles
What: Upscale Soy makes natural soybean wax candles in a variety of sizes and scents, many referencing Michigan locations.
Available: On the company's website, as well as retailers, including Kalamazoo Nature Connection, 359 S. Kalamazoo Mall.
Cost: Price ranges start at $1.25 for votives to $15 for 12-ounce jars
Contact: 269-816-8448, info.rjohnson@yahoo.com, www.upscalesoy.com
Holiday Ale from Bravo! Restaurant & Cafe
What: The seasonal beer from chef and head brewer Adam Stacey is described as
"caramel in color and lightly spiced with orange peel, ginger, cinnamon and honey. This easy sipping beer has a surprisingly high alcohol of 11%." Pick up a growler of it as a gift for a friend, or yourself.
Available: Only at the restaurant, 5402 Portage Road
Cost: $15 for a half-gallon glass container with the restaurant's logo on it
Contact: 269-344-7700, www.bravokalamazoo.com
What: Gazelle Sports co-founder Bruce Johnson has made three Kalamazoo magnet designs that are sold at several downtown retailers.
Available: Nature Connection, Spirit of Kalamazoo, Alfred E. Bike, Pedal Kalamazoo, Zoo City Cycle, Gazelle Sports.
Cost: $5
Locally-made postcards of Kalamazoo landmarks
What: Vicki Horn, of Vicksburg, created a series of hand-drawn cards showing Kalamazoo-area landmarks in the winter. Horn then sprinkles glitter over her drawings to give them a festive feel.Locations include the Kalamazoo State Theatre, Bronson Park and more.
Available: Nature Connection of Kalamazoo, 359 S. Kalamazoo Mall
Cost: $4-$5
Contact: 269-567-2873, www.natureconnect.com
Lawton Ridge wines depicting Kalamazoo area
What: The Kalamazoo winery makes a red and white wine with the airport code for Kalamazoo, AZO. The red wine label depicts a plane flying over the Kalamazoo River, while the white labels shows a plane taking off from Gull Lake.
Available: Lawton Ridge Winery, 8456 Stadium Drive
Cost: $12.95 per bottle.
Contact: 269-372-9463, lawtonridgewinery.com
Kalamazoo Goat soap, lotions
What: Kelly Linton, of Kalamazoo, uses goat milk to make soap, lotions and oils. They are only sold at the Nature Connection. The products are available in a variety of scents, including lavender, lemongrass mint and patchouli.
Available: Nature Connection of Kalamazoo, 359 S. Kalamazoo Mall.
Cost: Prices range from $3.25 for small soap to $8 for lotion.
Contact: 269-567-2873, www.natureconnect.com
Stephen Lynch's new comedy album
What: Comedian Stephen Lynch, a Western Michigan University graduate who recently moved back to Kalamazoo, released his newest album, "Lion," on Nov. 13. Blending his folk music leanings with comical lyrics about Tennessee, vegans and other subjects, the album debuted at No. 1 on iTunes. The two-disc album includes the studio recording as well as live versions.
Available: Major retailers, Stephen Lynch's website, iTunes, Spotify and more
Cost: $12.99 for CD; $9.99 for MP3
Contact: stephenlynch.com
John Liberty can be reached at 269-370-7372 or jlibert1@mlive.com. Follow me on Twitter @JohnTLiberty