Good morning, Kalamazoo.

On July 4, fireworks sparked a fire that destroyed Judy Lowery's garage on Sheridan Drive, where she stored supplies for her homeless outreach programs.

A GoFundMe has raised over $4,200 of a $7,500 goal while investigators examine the blaze’s cause.

The Edison Neighborhood Association is renovating its building on Washington Avenue into a resilience hub to support residents during severe weather.

Renovations include solar panels installed in June, battery storage, a commercial kitchen starting in July, and a revamped community room for livestreaming meetings later this year.

Following severe storms that left nearly 10,000 customers without power as of Monday afternoon, Consumers Energy crews are restoring service statewide while local businesses (like The Briar Patch flower shop) rely on backup generators and face delays until full power returns.

Happy’s Pizza returns to Kalamazoo with the area’s first Savvy Sliders at 3205 S.

Westnedge Ave., opening Monday, July 6. The restaurant offers dine-in, carryout & delivery and will hold its grand opening from Aug. 7 to Aug. 9 while seeking new staff.

Triple-A Michigan reports statewide gas prices have dropped to an average of $3.96 per gallon, with Kalamazoo County at $3.94 and prices ranging from $3.62 to $4.05 elsewhere.

A 15-gallon fill-up now costs about $59.

Hundreds of Kalamazoo Public Schools students began summer school yesterday to catch up on key subjects after failing to meet regular year requirements.

Superintendent Darrin Slade said improvement over the next few weeks will determine if students advance to the next grade (extra help efforts are in place).

Kalamazoo Public Schools is breaking ground on an 87,000 sqft new El Sol Elementary School today at 2 p.m. at 1428 Baker Street in Kalamazoo Township (site of former Brucker Elementary School); the school will feature dual-language classes, athletic facilities, and a playground to support its growing magnet program.

On Monday, July 6, 10,000 gallons of wastewater spilled near Emerald Drive and Miller Road, and city crews cleared the blockage by 3:50 p.m. while the health department advised residents to avoid Davis Creek until water quality is confirmed safe.

Residents have pressed city leaders to remove fencing blocking public access at Arcadia Creek Festival Place, arguing it contradicts an earlier promise; officials say the temporary barrier will be taken down between events as construction is set to pick up in fall though no start date has been confirmed.

Michigan officials announced 170 cases of cyclosporiasis today and expect numbers to rise to 572 by Saturday; residents in the southwest region should wash fresh produce thoroughly plus cook fruits and vegetables when possible as the investigation continues.

The former Disciples of Christ Christian Church at 2208 Winchell Ave—designed by Frank Lloyd Wright protégé Alden B.

Dow—was sold in June for $1.3M to BAPS Kalamazoo LLC and will be transformed into a Hindu community center and temple with only minor interior updates planned.

Rising Kalamazoo Central offensive lineman Dewey Young committed to Colorado under Coach Prime on Monday night during a ceremony — attended by about 100 local supporters — adding to the Buffaloes’ 2027 recruiting class.

John R. Miller Concert

8 p.m. — Bell's Eccentric Cafe — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy live music at one of Kalamazoo's favorite venues.

Kindleberger 5k Run/Walk

7:30 AM — Lower Kindleberger Park — Free entry — Kickstart your day with energy and community spirit at this charming 5K run/walk.

Sierra Shame Concert

6:00-7:30 p.m. — Texas Drive Park — Free entry — Experience a high-energy blend of Classic Rock and Kickin' Country from Sierra Shame.

2026 PZSC Cars & Cocktails Car Show

4-7 p.m. — Portage Zhang Senior Center — Cost varies — Enjoy a vibrant car show with live entertainment, food, and fun contests.

Here Come The Mummies Concert

8:00 PM — Bell's Eccentric Cafe — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a lively performance with the quirky band Here Come The Mummies.

Here Come The Mummies

8:00 – 9:30 PM — Bell's General Store — Check venue for ticket pricing — Enjoy a lively performance from the unique and entertaining act, Here Come The Mummies.

Moonlight Festival with Matt Giraud

— Time Range — Old Dog Tavern — Cost Info — Experience a musical journey with Matt Giraud and Wavy Awakening at this lively festival.