Good morning, Kalamazoo.

Kalamazoo Public Schools superintendent Darrin Slade gave a strategic plan update last night outlining progress in academics, attendance and fiscal responsibility while noting many areas were rated as adequate.

A community session to discuss the plan is scheduled for Feb. 23 at Milwood Magnet School at 6 p.m.

City crews repaired a water main break in a Kalamazoo neighborhood this week by working through frozen ground and rushing water.

Officials said the decades-old pipe and winter frost add strain to the system; residents should boil tap water if pressure drops during repairs.

Kalamazoo’s Rx Kids pilot program turned one this week, enrolling 94% of pregnant residents and supporting 942 families with nearly $4 million in funds; the program pays $1500 during pregnancy + $500 monthly for the baby’s first year and will soon expand countywide.

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.

SpongeBob Musical: Youth Edition

2-3 p.m. — Kalamazoo Civic Theatre — Tickets available — Dive into an undersea adventure as SpongeBob and friends save Bikini Bottom from disaster.

K-Wings vs. Indy Fuel Hockey Match

7–9 p.m. — Wings Event Center — $3 beers, sodas, and hot dogs — Start your weekend with a win at $3 Friday as the K-Wings take on the Indy Fuel.

Member Meetup at Wax Wings Brewing Company

4-6 p.m. — Wax Wings Brewing Company — $1 donation per beer — Celebrate the debut of Exhibit Ale brewed in collaboration with Wax Wings while supporting the KIA.

Kalamazoo Nature Center Guided Hike

2-3 p.m. — Kalamazoo Nature Center — Free entry — Explore the beautiful trails of KNC with a guided hike through nature's hidden gems.

Great Lakes Gift Show

March 2-4 — Kalamazoo County Expo Center — Cost varies — Discover a fantastic collection of unique companies and name brands at Michigan's premier gift and boutique show.

Great Lakes Gift Show Kalamazoo

5 PM – 5 PM — Kalamazoo County Expo Center — Check for entry costs — Discover the latest trends and products in the gift and toy industry.