Good morning, Kalamazoo.

On July 11, a 29-year-old man drowned near the Allegan Dam when strong currents swept him from waist-deep water while fishing in the Kalamazoo River — first responders arrived after police were called at 8 p.m. but could not save him.

Bronson Park hosted the Black Arts Festival on Saturday, July 12, where the Black Arts & Cultural Center celebrated black artistry and history with live music, DJ sets, yard games and local vendors — giving local entrepreneurs a chance to share their work.

Kalamazoo/Battle Creek International Airport received a $14 million FAA grant to build a 450-foot runway extension, improve its taxiways, and update key safety features.

Construction will begin in spring 2026 and finish by fall 2026—ensuring the airport becomes safer and more efficient.

Lawmakers are considering the Rescissions Act of 2025 which would cut $1.1 billion in federal funding for public media; if passed, Kalamazoo’s WMUK will lose about $356,498 and WGVU roughly $1.4 million, forcing both stations to cut programming and staffing—local emergency alert services in rural areas could also suffer. The Senate is expected to vote on the bill as early as Tuesday.

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.

Fieldpiece A2L Refrigerants and HVACR Field Best Practices Workshop

8:00-9:30 a.m. — Young Supply Company - Kalamazoo — Free entry — Learn about A2L refrigerants, regulations, and best practices for HVACR field work.

Kzoo Parks Summer Cinema: U Pick the Flick

6-10 p.m. — Crane Park — Free entry — Enjoy a community movie night featuring your choice between 'Harold and the Purple Crayon' or 'The Garfield Movie' under the stars.

EPS Foam and Electronics Recycling Day

10 a.m. – 1 p.m. — Mayors Riverfront Park — Free entry — Drop off your EPS foam and electronics at this quarterly recycling event.

Tomas Esparza Blues Band – Oshtemo Music in the Park

6-7:30 p.m. — Flesher Field — Free entry — Enjoy Chicago Style Blues and raffle prizes in a scenic park setting.

Dokidokon 2025

July 28-30 — Radisson Plaza Hotel & Suites Kalamazoo — Tickets from $10 — Celebrate anime, gaming, and fandom with a pirate theme at this vibrant community convention.

Parade of Homes Kalamazoo

6-7 p.m. — Home Builders Association — Ticket prices vary — Explore stunning homes and find inspiration for your next project.

Whack For Warmth Golf Outing Fundraiser

7 AM-4 PM — Cedar Creek Golf Course — All proceeds benefit heating assistance programs — Play for a cause at this engaging community golf outing.

Concerts in the Park

4-5 p.m. — Bronson Park — Free entry — Enjoy live summer music brought by the Arts Council of Greater Kalamazoo.