Good morning, Kalamazoo.

A fire broke out in a vacant apartment near Applegrove Lane and Anna's Lane Monday night, leaving no injuries and damage limited to the unit; officials credited working smoke alarms and are investigating the cause.

R.W. LaPine Inc. will spend $9.5M to expand its facilities in Comstock Township and St. Joseph, creating 70 new jobs + a $345,000 state grant boosts capacity for mechanical fabrication and HVAC services.

Target and Walmart stores in Michigan are among those recalling Taylor Farms products after fresh jalapeños were linked to a salmonella outbreak (announced Monday by Taylor Farms).

The recalled items have a best if used by date of Aug. 16 or earlier, and new suppliers will fill orders.

Today, Kalamazoo County Health & Community Services Department offers free cannabis lock bags to help residents store cannabis safely and prevent accidental ingestion by children and pets (funded by the Michigan Operation and Oversight Grant).

Lock bags are available while supplies last at the HCS front desk and community events.

Kalamazoo Central began its football camp on Monday, Aug.

10 at the high school as new head coach TJ Smith stressed discipline and accountability while preparing players for the season (he told opponents to bring their mouthpiece).

More than 30 local high school football teams held day 1 practice Monday as players and coaches prepared for a season full of new challenges.

Coaches at Portage Central, Portage Northern and Loy Norrix stressed discipline (their top goal) to build a strong foundation for upcoming games.

Twenty Kalamazoo-area high school defensive football players were profiled as rising talents for the upcoming 2026 season, with key prospects (including Kalamazoo Central and Portage Central standouts) expected to energize games this fall.

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.