Good morning, Kalamazoo.

Fort Custer camp is drawing many campers as Memorial Day kicks off the summer season, with nearly all 219 sites booked and new bathhouses now featuring handicap-accessible showers & outdoor sinks.

Camp hosts Janice and Terry Honeycutt advise calling for available spots since reservations are made six months in advance.

The Kalamazoo Rotary Club held a Memorial Day parade on Monday, May 26 starting at 10 a.m. on Michigan Avenue and an honor ceremony at 11 a.m. at Riverside Cemetery to remember local service members.

Retired Major Brian Webb (Michigan's Veteran Liaison) spoke on the theme 'All Gave Some, Some Gave All' while local vocalist Grace Kalafut and the U.S. Marine Corps Color Guard performed.

Kalamazoo Public Schools report that Superintendent Dr. Darrin Slade’s tougher discipline measures have reduced absenteeism by 15% and disciplinary issues by 37% over the past three years—teacher morale has risen with added support such as a new truancy officer and increased mental health services.

Jenny Doezema is the new executive director of the Kalamazoo Climate Crisis Coalition and has led the group since its start in 2019 while now steering a project to upgrade 300 single-family homes and invest in four neighborhood centers.

Kalamazoo County is preparing legal action to contest the terminated $19 million EPA grant and the project will prevent an estimated 700 metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions — a key part of a broader local climate justice plan.

Veterans, families, and state leaders gathered Monday morning at Riverside Cemetery to honor service members and highlight the need for mental health support for veterans.

State Rep. Julie Rogers urged the use of the National Suicide Hotline — 988 as project lead Brian Webb promoted outreach programs to help those in need.

Portage City Council is set to approve a conservative $28 million budget today that funds capital improvements and will raise water and sewer rates by 5% and 8% respectively.

Council Manager Pat McGinnis said discussions went smoothly plus city bills may increase based on updated home valuations.

On May 24, 2025, Edison Initiatives welcomed a family into a renovated home in Kalamazoo’s Edison neighborhood during an open house—this nonprofit relies on volunteers and paid contractors to help families build wealth by offering a future chance to buy the home at fair market value within five years.

Defending Northwoods League champion Kalamazoo Growlers will open their home season Wednesday, May 28, against the Lakeshore Chinooks with first pitch set at 11:05 a.m. and a field upgraded with a new grass base path—sold-out education games and themed nights highlight the team's commitment to fan-friendly improvements.

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.

Wausau Woodchucks vs. Kalamazoo Growlers

1:35-3:05 p.m. — Homer Stryker Field — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a thrilling baseball game between the Woodchucks and the Growlers in Kalamazoo.