Good morning, Kalamazoo.

Following his death, West Michigan communities remember Rev.

Jesse Jackson for his message of unity + voting rights, recalling visits to Kalamazoo and Benton Harbor that sparked local civic action. Local leaders say his words continue to guide community efforts.

On Tuesday, Feb. 17, Portage welcomed Raising Cane’s with over 80 people lining up for the 9:40 a.m. opening.

One customer camped 18 hours and played euchre overnight while the restaurant, set in a redeveloped strip mall, created 130 local jobs & showcased nearby school spirit.

Shiloh Industries in Comstock Township will close on March 31, leading to 160 job losses as Grouper Acquisition Company LLC filed a WARN notice — the company will also shutter its metal stamping plant in northern Indiana on the same day.

Tyler Langs returned as dean of students at Climax-Scotts High School on Tuesday after a paid leave that began mid-October amid concerns over his coaching conduct.

He remains on leave from his athletic director and football coach roles as the board awaits his response to his contract for next school year.

The city commission approved a $3.3 million plan to restore the historic Peninsula Building downtown (damaged by fire last summer) that will add 11 apartments (including five affordable units) above a ground-floor restaurant.

Funding includes a $736,000 tax offset from a Brownfield Development plan.

State legislators plan to introduce a bipartisan Housing Readiness Package this week to ease zoning rules and cut redundant fees for builders.

The proposals aim to lower housing costs by allowing duplexes in single-family zones and reducing minimum lot and parking requirements.

Tuesday night at the township hall, Dorr Township officials held talks on a zoning ordinance for battery energy storage systems + residents raised concerns linking the energy project to a potential data center; officials clarified that no formal plans have been submitted and no vote will occur at this meeting.

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.

Stephen King's Misery

7:30–9:15 p.m. — Farmers Alley Theatre — $45-$49, $20 student tickets — Experience the gripping tale of an author held captive by his obsessed fan in this thrilling live adaptation.

Arancini Cooking Class

4-8 p.m. — 4023 Douglas Ave, Kalamazoo, MI — Hands-on experience — Learn to craft delicious Sicilian arancini from scratch while exploring their rich history.

Live Music with Megan Dooley

7-9 p.m. — Zero: Non-Alcoholic Bar — Free entry — Enjoy a delightful evening of live music at a unique venue.