Good morning, Kalamazoo.

Western Michigan University will host the second annual Southwest Michigan Vision Resource Fair Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the College of Health and Human Services (Building 145), providing free resources and product demos for people with low vision and their advocates.

The DNR announced that visitors canceling state park reservations for overnight stays from Jul.

15-19 due to hazardous wildfire smoke will receive full refunds — same-day cancellation fees are waived, and reservations held until 3 p.m. Sunday will be canceled if guests do not check in.

Air quality in Kalamazoo is declining as wildfire smoke from Canada drifts into our region; local monitors record hazardous levels and officials advise sensitive groups to stay indoors.

The haze is expected to linger until winds shift later this week.

Michigan congressional representatives sent a letter to Canada’s Prime Minister urging prompt and measurable steps to reduce wildfire risk amid ongoing smoke affecting local communities — they warned that continued inaction may lead the United States to take its own fuel reduction measures to protect air quality.

The MDHHS reported 4,312 cases of cyclosporiasis statewide on Thursday, including 63 in Kalamazoo County with 102 hospitalizations overall.

Officials noted lettuce may be involved while advising anyone with symptoms to seek testing + treatment as the investigation continues.

Canadian wildfire smoke made air unhealthy in most areas, and officials say sensitive groups may feel effects as the Mackinac Bridge was obscured yesterday.

The Blue Stem restaurant—set on a hilltop at the Gull Lake View Golf Resort near Augusta—offers sweeping views and American bistro fare.

It operates seasonally from May through mid-September, serving lunch six days and dinner Thursday through Saturday.

Michigan State announced its Athletics Hall of Fame Class of 2026, featuring standout athletes Kalin Lucas + Tico Duckett among seven inductees.

The induction will be held on Sept. 11 with recognition at Spartan Stadium when Michigan State hosts Eastern Michigan.

Sterling Heights Stevenson offensive lineman Braden Chaffin, who committed to Stanford on June 1 after a season off the field, is set to boost his team this season with leadership and renewed drive — coach Brandon Gennette said his work in workouts could help improve last year's 5-5 record.

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.

Dead Letter Fest 2026

4-11:45 p.m. — Old Dog Tavern — Expected capacity 500 — Celebrate alternative music and DIY culture at a vibrant festival connecting artists and audiences.