Good morning, Kalamazoo.

Today, meteorologists confirmed 27 tornadoes in Michigan with 19 in West Michigan, making 2025 one of the top ten tornado-active years since 1950—most of the events were rated EF-0 or EF-1 and more may be confirmed later.

Graphic Packaging International has submitted a permit request to Michigan to modernize its north side paper recycling plant—ending production on the older K3 machine and permanently shutting down boilers 8 and 9—so production will shift to the K2 facility while the state review process begins.

Kalamazoo Township approved $125,000 in emergency funding on Tuesday to clear debris after severe weather hit the area on May 15 — curbside brush pickup will start on June 2 and residents can submit service requests for larger tree removal.

Real estate developer Jamauri Bogan plans a 5-story apartment complex near Bronson hospital that will replace a shuttered Foodmaxx liquor store and five houses with 80 affordable apartments and a child care facility.

He has asked the city to rezone the 1.3-acre site and city commissioners will vote on the request on June 2—this project aims to serve the needs of the city’s essential workforce.

City commissioners approved tax breaks on Monday, May 19 for two downtown apartment renovation projects to cut future property taxes and spur up-front investment.

The East Michigan Avenue project is in a Neighborhood Enterprise Zone that freezes taxes for 15 years and the Portage Street project uses a rehab certificate — both measures that may boost property values while saving more than $260,000 in tax revenue, officials said — as renovations are updated.

A tree crashed through a fence on May 20 in Kalamazoo amid strong wind storms that damaged many areas—neighbors now face insurance questions about who pays for the repair work.

Local agents said liability only arises if a homeowner knew a tree was rotten before it fell and that minor repairs may be paid out of pocket.

Portage Central ace Tatum Helsom, who signed with Georgia Gwinnett, received over 4,000 votes in a statewide poll to be named the top senior softball player from April 10-16 & she became the No. 1 pitcher this season while excelling as a hitter.

Bell’s Brewery signed a unique NIL deal with 11 parents of WMU hockey players after the Broncos won their first national title in 60 years, giving each a Two Hearted care package with a jersey, pint glass, hat and other swag—an honor for behind-the-scenes support.

The brewery said it may expand the deal in the future as it continues to celebrate those who helped raise the players.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

UKC PREMIER Nationals Dog Show

8 AM – 2 PM — Kalamazoo County Expo Center — Dogs not in competition are asked to stay home as they prance, weave, and soar at this premier event showcasing the UKC's 'Total Dog' philosophy.

Festival Fridays 2025

8 PM – 12 AM — Arcadia Creek Festival Place — Free entry — Enjoy a vibrant evening of community festivities in downtown Kalamazoo.

Kalamazoo Klassic 2025

7:30-10:30 a.m. — Maple Street Magnet School for the Arts — Registration required — Celebrate community and inclusivity while achieving your fitness goals with 5K, 10K, and 15K options.