Good morning, Kalamazoo.

News Channel 3 looked back at 2025 with a year in review (focusing on local community events, business developments, and weather milestones in Kalamazoo).

The recap offers insight on key local trends as residents prepare for a busy 2026.

Cranes work across Kalamazoo County as 21 projects start construction on public safety upgrades, housing, and mixed-use sites.

Many projects are set for 2026 with some completing by early 2027, promising improvements from a new fire station to a family shelter and student dorms.

Michigan raised its minimum wage to $13.73 per hour on Tuesday, replacing the former $12.48 rate under the Workforce Opportunity Act.

The tiered plan will boost wages to $15 by 2027+ giving employers time to adjust.

On New Year’s Day, West Michigan hospitals welcomed four babies, including a baby boy born at 12:19 a.m. at Bronson Birthplace in Kalamazoo to the Kilmartin family, with additional births in Battle Creek, Grand Rapids and at University of Michigan Health-West; officials report each baby is doing well.

Local realtors report the West Michigan housing market is cooling at the start of 2026 with inventory tight and prices rising slowly.

They say higher interest rates have reduced buyer purchasing power plus a small rate cut may bring more buyers into the market.

Kalamazoo Boat Show

2-8 p.m. — Kalamazoo County Expo Center — Admission fees apply — Explore an exciting array of marine displays and products.

ThriftAbility Grand Opening

3-6 p.m. — ThriftAbility — Free entry — Celebrate the launch of a unique thrift store serving the local community with refreshments and friendly faces.

Tech Mondays

3-5:30 p.m. — Kalamazoo Public Library - Central Library — Free assistance — Get help with computer-related issues at this community support event.

Chicago The Musical

7:30-10:30 p.m. — Miller Auditorium — Tickets start at $46.56 — Experience the excitement of the Jazz Age with a thrilling tale of fame, fortune, and sensational performances.

When is the Right Time for Memory Care?

6-7 p.m. — North Woods Village of Kalamazoo — Free entry — Explore pivotal insights on dementia care and the importance of timely support for loved ones.

Harlem Globetrotters Show

7-9 p.m. — Wings Event Center — Tickets from $20 — Experience the thrilling antics of the Harlem Globetrotters live in Kalamazoo.

Primary Trust

2-3:30 p.m. — Farmers Alley Theatre — Ticket prices vary — Experience a Pulitzer Prize-winning play about new beginnings and stepping out of your comfort zone.

AMPLIFY Leadership Conference

9 AM – 3 PM — Western Michigan University — Seats are limited — Amplify your leadership and energize your team with practical tools and insights.

Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis

7-11 p.m. — Chenery Auditorium — Ticket prices vary — Experience the legendary Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra led by Wynton Marsalis in an intimate concert setting.