Good morning, Kalamazoo.

MLive reporters won 116 awards + the Kalamazoo Gazette was named Newspaper of the Year for Class C at the Michigan Press Association Better Newspaper Contest announced on Thursday, April 23 in East Lansing.

Kalamazoo Public Schools is showing discipline improvements with fewer fights, classroom disruptions and suspensions—Student Services director Dr. Lisa Dewey noted that extra support staff has helped reduce incidents.

Superintendent Darrin Slade said further updates will be provided as the school year continues.

Today is the final day for city flood response services as the emergency declaration expires.

City crews removed about 193,000 gallons of water + completed 56 surveys and delivered 31 cleanup kits while continuing damage assessments and water-level monitoring.

JAMA published a study on Wednesday showing that teen and young adult suicides dropped 11% in the first 2.5 years after 988 Lifeline launched in July 2022.

NAMI local experts (in Southwest Michigan) say the service offers free immediate support and connects callers with trained crisis counselors.

Construction crews completed the structural framework for the new $515M Kalamazoo Event Center after placing a 33-foot beam on April 24 — marking a major milestone that allows interior buildout to begin.

The venue at 411 W. Kalamazoo Ave will open in fall 2027 for WMU sports and community events.

High school baseball coaches statewide have shared survey results ranking the best middle infielders, highlighting rising talents and returning all-state players.

The survey notes standout performances including Hackett Catholic Prep’s Max Gerl + his solid play this season.

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.

Connections Recovery Support Group

5:30-7 p.m. — Kalamazoo Public Library - Central Library — Free entry — Connect with others on the recovery journey for peer support in mental health.

The Mountain Goats Live

8-11 p.m. — Bell's Eccentric Cafe — Tickets from $137 — Experience an unforgettable live performance by The Mountain Goats in Kalamazoo.