Good morning, Kalamazoo.

On Friday, April 17, the Kalamazoo Curling Club purchased 2.5 acres on Island Avenue in Parchment and began fundraising for a new facility + its former home, the Wings Event Center, is set to close in spring.

Officials said that testing a month ago detected high copper and lead levels, leading to water fountains being turned off at the jail.

Inmates receive up to seven water bottles daily and county health officials are working with building staff to resolve the issue in six to eight months.

Gov. Whitmer declared a state of emergency Friday, April 17 for Kalamazoo, Ann Arbor and five counties facing severe flooding and tornado damage; the move helps local officials access funds to repair damaged roads, homes and businesses.

Kalamazoo and county officials declared a local state of emergency after severe rain caused widespread flooding and basement intrusions.

City services and crews are assisting residents while sandbag distribution sites (Northside Association for Community Development, Douglass Community Association, and Edison Neighborhood Association) are open and further storms are forecast.

A Michigan House report finds that the state’s mental health care system is under severe strain with staffing, capacity and administrative issues plus too few beds.

MDHHS is expanding services with new crisis stabilization units planned in Kalamazoo to ease pressure on hospitals and jails.

Good Night, Oscar

7:30-9:45 p.m. — Farmers Alley Theatre — Ticket prices range from $20-$52 — Experience the witty and poignant tale of Oscar Levant on a late-night talk show in the 1950s.

Zeigler Kalamazoo Marathon 2026

7 a.m. - 2 p.m. — Bronson Park — Registration required — Celebrate health and community at the annual marathon in Kalamazoo.

2026 Kalamazoo Rock, Mineral, Gem, and Fossil Show

2-8 p.m. — Kalamazoo County Expo Center — $5 adults, kids under 12 free — Explore one of Michigan's largest showcase of minerals, gems, and jewelry from 50 vendors.

Future Islands Concert

Time unknown — Bell's Beer Garden — Ticket prices vary — Experience the energetic sound of Future Islands alongside Open Mike Eagle in a lively setting.

Emmy Kastner Book Release Event

5-6 p.m. — Bookbug & this is a bookstore — Free entry — Celebrate the release of a delightful picture book filled with ice cream and laughter.

38th Annual Vicksburg Hearty Hustle (5K)

1-3 p.m. — 501 E Hwy St, Vicksburg, MI — Registration fee required — Celebrate fitness and community at this beloved annual 5K walk/run event.