Good morning, Kalamazoo.

Kalamazoo County parks employees are working today to mark Juneteenth by waiving entrance fees at all locations+ inviting residents to spend time outdoors.

The new Woollam Preserve in Texas Township opened last week and now offers kayak rentals on Bass Lake at 6578 Texas Drive+ giving families a fresh way to enjoy nature.

Since Kalamazoo updated its mobile nuisance party ordinance four weekends ago, KDPS noted fewer incidents of reckless driving and dangerous stunts but saw a brief uptick last Friday—officers quickly documented violations by 267 vehicles and issued 139 warning letters.

Local organizations in Kalamazoo celebrated Juneteenth yesterday with parades, art exhibits, music, and dance to mark the day slavery ended (a federal holiday since 2021).

Elder Leslie Mathews said the events reminded residents of the need to value freedom and foster empathy during challenging times.

A heat wave will hit West Michigan this weekend as forecasters predict daytime temperatures in the lower 90s and a heat index near 100 because a heat dome builds over the area to keep conditions hot and humid into mid-week.

Governor Gretchen Whitmer joined Senate Majority Leader Winnie Brinks and House Speaker Matt Hall online on Wednesday—while she is in Australia—to discuss plans for the K-12 fiscal year 2026 budget; she used the Administrative Board to move funds as all three leaders aim to pass the budget by July 1.

Housing Resources Inc reported that its 50 housing pods bought in 2021 for $1 million to provide temporary housing are now up for auction until June 30— the program was scrapped in September 2024 after neighbors raised concerns about placement.

Officials expect bidders may repurpose the pods for emergency or recreational use to help recoup HRI's investment.

Around 150 children participated in a Play Ball clinic at Kalamazoo Central High School yesterday organized by Derek Jeter’s Turn 2 Foundation in partnership with MLB — the program is intended to become a local tradition as both Derek and Sharlee Jeter are Kalamazoo Central graduates —.

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.

Kanola Band at Lunch Time Live

11:30 AM – 1:30 PM — Bronson Park — Free entry — Enjoy a variety of food options and good vibes with the Kanola Band at this community event.

Been Lovin’ You: The Works Of August Wilson

7:30 p.m. — The Jolliffe Theatre — Box office hours available — Experience the dynamic storytelling of August Wilson highlighting Black Love through powerful theatrical performances.