Thursday, May 15th, 2025
Good morning, Kalamazoo. Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 15th of May.
CRIME NEWS
- ➤ George Stanard pleaded guilty to three counts of first-degree arson and one count of third-degree arson in Kalamazoo for allegedly starting eight fires last year — one firefighter was injured, two others suffered heat exhaustion and a home was lost — and he is scheduled for sentencing on June 2 and faces up to life in prison. WKZO
- ➤ Police continue to search for missing 15-year-old Glenn Brown—last seen leaving Pennfield High School before entering a wooded area—and his extended absence, amid two reported sightings and a history of runaways, has raised local concern. WWMT
- ➤ On May 12, seven inmates were trapped in a jail transport van at the county jail for two hours in extreme heat—one inmate, Dominique Motton, said he feared for his life as deputies examined the inmates and staff were placed on leave while an investigation continues. WWMT
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ Michigan's Pre-K for All program now offers free preschool for all 4-year-olds because of state budget allocations, replacing the income-based Great Start Readiness Program. The statewide program enrolls 47,500 students—up 23% since Governor Whitmer announced it in 2023—and state leaders plan to pilot free programs for 3-year-olds soon. WWMT
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ Portage city council approved a new ordinance making being a really bad neighbor a misdemeanor after residents said a local man terrorized them on Quail Street by spying, confronting, and intimidating homeowners — the rule takes effect in 15 days and will not apply retroactively. WKZO
- ➤ Kalamazoo officials are working to resolve tension between the Civil Rights Board and the city commission over board membership and authority. Mayor Dave Anderson said he is willing to meet and discuss options if current plans do not work—city Attorney Aaron Leal noted that many complaints were dismissed—and community members have mixed views on the board’s legal powers. WKZO
SPORTS NEWS
- ➤ Kalamazoo-area high school boys track athletes met early state qualifying marks at pre-qualified meets under the new rule by the Michigan High School Athletic Association—which uses a three-year average of sixth-place marks—to secure spots in the state finals regardless of later regional results. MLive
- ➤ Rodney Marshall—who has served as a longtime assistant since the early 2000s—was named the new head coach of Loy Norrix boys basketball after De’Tavia Moore resigned in March. Marshall said he will focus on strong player relationships and maintain the team’s fast pace as most of the varsity roster returns. MLive
- ➤ Bob Lemieux, the first head coach and general manager of the Kalamazoo Wings hockey team, died at 80 late last week surrounded by his family. He coached the team from 1974 until 1977 and managed it until 1979—he also played for the Oakland Seals and other teams while staying in Kalamazoo. WKZO
- ➤ Kalamazoo-area high school girls track athletes have earned early state finals spots at pre-qualified meets under a new rule by the Michigan High School Athletic Association—this rule sets standards based on a three-year average of sixth-place finishes. Their qualification means they will compete in state finals regardless of results at this weekend's regional meets. MLive
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Girls Night - The Musical
7:30-9 p.m. — Miller Auditorium — Tickets required — Experience a hilarious journey of friendship through 80s and 90s hits in this acclaimed musical.
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Oshtemo Cruise-In & Auto Show
2-5 p.m. — Flesher Field — Free entry — Enjoy a day of classic cars, food trucks, and family fun while supporting a great cause.
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Davey and The Midnights Concert
7 PM – 1 AM — The SugarBowl Bar & Grille — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a night of unconventional country music and rock & roll from Davey & the Midnights and the Driftless Revelers.
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Summer Live Music at The Squirrel
7-10 p.m. — Squirrel Hollow Golf Course — Free entry — Enjoy an exciting lineup of 40 free live music shows with local bands and food trucks amidst stunning sunsets.
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Michigan Lighthouse – Half Off Bottled Wine Wednesday
6-8:30 p.m. — Wine and Canvas Kalamazoo — $38 — Enjoy a creative paint and sip experience with half off bottled wine and professional instruction.
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2 Day Psychic & Holistic Expo
9 a.m. – 6 p.m. — Kalamazoo County Expo Center — General Admission $10, 12 and under free — Discover products and services for your body, mind, and spirit with over 50 vendors.
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Yo-Yo Ma Concert
7-9 p.m. — Miller Auditorium — Ticket costs vary — Experience the enchanting sounds of world-renowned cellist Yo-Yo Ma in a captivating live performance.
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KIA Arts Fair 2025
3 PM – 5 PM — Bronson Park — Free entry — Experience over 130 fine artists showcasing unique creations at this vibrant two-day juried art show.
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Harry Potter and The Chamber of Secrets in Concert
7:30-9 p.m. — Miller Auditorium — Tickets required — Experience the magic of Harry Potter on a giant screen with a live symphony orchestra performing the iconic score.
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Kenosha Kingfish vs. Kalamazoo Growlers
1:35-3:05 p.m. — Homer Stryker Field — Tickets available — Catch an exciting summer baseball matchup featuring local teams.
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TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
The shoe that fits one person pinches another.
~ Carl Jung
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