Good morning, Kalamazoo.

The new $49M youth sports complex broke ground today at its site set to feature full-size basketball courts convertible into pickleball and volleyball courts, plus an indoor turf field, team rooms and college recruitment space to boost local business and athletic programs.

Completion is expected in fall.

MDARD is reviewing permanent biosecurity guidelines for farms — drawing on emergency measures from the 2024 bird flu outbreak — and proposing tighter safety rules to prevent future disease; West Michigan farmers can review the draft and submit feedback by August 30 with a virtual public meeting on August 27.

Portage Northern football standout Kane Morris, a 3-star recruit committed to Western Michigan, is preparing for a breakout senior season.

The fast receiver overcame injuries & transfers as he works to lead his team to a fifth consecutive postseason appearance.

The 2026 high school 8-man football season in Southwest Michigan begins with practices on Aug.

11 and games scheduled from Aug. 27 to Oct. 23 at local fields (teams include Climax-Scotts, Marcellus, Martin, Mendon and Van Buren).

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.