Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 23rd of January.
Good morning, Kalamazoo.
Six Abdullah brothers opened Mocha House in Kalamazoo in October 2025, offering traditional Yemeni coffees and American drinks.
Their shop honors heritage with a logo reflecting Yemen’s coffee history and serves unique matcha drinks — a tribute to their journey from Coldwater to community success.
After several inches of snow fell Wednesday night, county crews are working hard to clear high-traffic roads with extended shifts due to strong winds and drifting snow.
Officials urge drivers to keep sidewalks clear to let plows work + keep travel safe.
City officials mobilized extra staff Thursday to plow snowy streets after several rounds of snow + residents are urged to drive carefully and check city channels for updates.
Kalamazoo officials are asking residents to move parked cars off residential streets to allow plows to safely clear roads in Vine and Knollwood neighborhoods today as more snow is expected.
Emergency Management + Public Works are adding extra staff to clear priority routes.
Kalamazoo County commissioners have allocated $850,000 for two housing developments on the south side to create 156 workforce housing units with amenities (childcare, fitness, grocery) while a multi-story project sees demolition of the former public safety station; construction is expected to begin later this year.
Due to extreme cold, Kalamazoo County postponed its annual homeless count to Feb.
5 to ensure safety for volunteers and those in need. The count, which tracks federal housing fund allocation and trends, was originally scheduled for this week.
Today, Kalamazoo firefighters adapt their tactics amid freezing temperatures and heavy snowfall while responding to emergencies.
Fire Lieutenant Tim Loso said crews slow down on icy roads, reroute when needed, and use tools (like salt and digital mapping) to protect equipment and ensure safety.
Experts warn that below-zero temperatures are straining vehicles and risking breakdowns, with AAA advising drivers in Kalamazoo to keep emergency supplies (blankets, water, and jumper cables) and avoid long idling.
The caution comes as West Michigan continues to face harsh weather that challenges vehicle performance.
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.
Family Storytime
10:30-11:00 a.m. — Kalamazoo Public Library - Oshtemo Branch — Free entry — Enjoy a delightful half-hour of stories, songs, and playtime for the whole family.
2026 MIVCA Coaches Clinic
February 6-7 — Loy Norrix High School — Not specified — Learn from top practitioners at this valuable volleyball coaching clinic.
Father-Daughter Valentine Dinner & Dance
6:30-9:30 p.m. — Radisson Plaza Hotel at Kalamazoo Center — $30 per person — Celebrate the special bond of fathers and daughters with dinner, dancing, and festive fun.
Avian Arts Exhibition Artist Reception
2-4 p.m. — Kalamazoo Nature Center — Free admission — Celebrate creativity and bird conservation through the lens of local artists and photographers.
Family Storytime at Oshtemo Library
10:30-11:00 a.m. — Kalamazoo Public Library - Oshtemo Branch — Free entry — Enjoy an engaging half-hour of stories, songs, and playtime for families.
Candlelight: Valentine’s Day Special
6:30-7:45 p.m. — The Civic Auditorium — $34 — Experience timeless music by Queen and The Beatles in a romantic candlelit setting.
Story Corner
10-11 a.m. — Kalamazoo Nature Center — Included with admission — Enjoy a delightful story time featuring nature-themed picture books followed by a gentle hike for little explorers.
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