Here's your local news at a glance for Tuesday, the 17th of June.
Good morning, Kalamazoo.
Prosecutors have authorized multiple charges against the suspect who shot and killed his 47-year-old wife, Sariah Robinson, last week on Woodward Avenue—a domestic violence incident where he later shot himself—and he now remains in hospital awaiting arraignment.
News Channel 3 began 75 years ago as WKZO-TV and is now WWMT-TV—using modern digital cameras and computers to edit stories much faster than when film was cut and spliced by hand.
Marcel Fable Price, a Kalamazoo native who gained recognition as Grand Rapids’ poet laureate in creative and nonprofit circles, returned to Kalamazoo in 2024 and now works to boost local literary culture—participating in readings and community events.
Today, Kalamazoo city commissioners will vote on contracts with downtown arena developers to reconfigure utilities, waterways, and infrastructure.
The project will close a stretch of roadway covering two blocks and cost about $13 million—costs split equally between the city and CD Arena LLC—and one lane of Westnedge is expected to reopen by November.
Kalamazoo city commissioners are meeting this afternoon with three finalist search firms to find a new city manager—using criteria like experience, client satisfaction and diversity commitments; they will pick a firm during their evening meeting.
City leaders in Kalamazoo are starting a multi-year project to update Arcadia Creek along Stadium Drive to reduce flooding and modernize aging infrastructure—this plan is funded by a $38 million PROTECT grant and a $5.8 million investment from downtown event center developers.
Traffic on Westnedge Avenue will be detoured through Michikal Street until June 2026.
WMU political science professor John Clark said that despite ongoing protests and acts of violence, the nation is not at its worst because past eras like the 60s and the Civil War faced similar turmoil & today’s media makes differences seem larger.
He urged open dialogue to bridge divides and strengthen unity.
Today the Kalamazoo County board is expected to accept a recommendation to build a new $40 million youth sports facility at the WestGate site.
County Administrator Kevin Catlin said a task force picked the site for its large open space for construction and expansion and for its close location to U.S. 131 and Kalamazoo Central High School, with hotel fees funding the project and tournaments planned to start in 2027.
JB Pump Day – Kalamazoo
11 AM – 1 PM — Young Supply Company — Free entry — Enjoy complimentary inspections and oil changes for vacuum pumps while getting wear-and-tear replaced on JB pumps.
Kalamazoo County Amateur Championship
Two-day tournament — Milham Park Golf Club — Registration required — Compete in a 36-hole individual stroke play championship with Open and Senior divisions.
Senior Living Awards Showcase
9 a.m. - 7 p.m. — 7132 W ML Ave, Kalamazoo, MI — Free entry — Celebrate the best in senior living with awards recognizing outstanding care, activities, and community spirit.
Battle Creek Battle Jacks vs Kalamazoo Growlers
6:35-8:05 PM — Homer Stryker Field — Tickets available — Enjoy an exciting game between local baseball teams in a vibrant atmosphere.
Kalamazoo Caribbean Festival
3:00 PM – 12:30 AM — Arcadia Creek Festival Place — Entry information not provided — Experience vibrant Caribbean music, food, and culture in downtown Kalamazoo.
Food Truck Tuesdays On The Road
5-7:30 p.m. — Midtown Fresh Market — Free entry — Enjoy a vibrant gathering of food trucks showcasing culinary delights and community spirit.
Battle Creek Field of Flight Air Show & Balloon Festival
July 2nd - 6th — Battle Creek Executive Airport at Kellogg Field — Events vary — Experience North America's largest combined air show and balloon festival with thrilling performances and family-friendly activities.
Traverse City Pit Spitters vs. Kalamazoo Growlers
6:35-8:05 p.m. — Homer Stryker Field — Ticket prices available — Catch an exciting baseball game featuring local teams in a vibrant summer atmosphere.
Battle Creek Battle Jacks vs. Kalamazoo Growlers
6:35-9:35 PM — Homer Stryker Field — Tickets available — Enjoy an exciting baseball game as local teams face off under the night sky.
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