Good morning, Kalamazoo.

MLive photojournalists captured the resilience and everyday life of Southwest Michigan through a gallery of 198 photos, highlighting the community's triumphs and challenges throughout 2024.

Former President Jimmy Carter's volunteer efforts with Habitat for Humanity in Benton Harbor, MI, following 2003 riots, significantly contributed to community rebuilding and affordable housing, embodying his humanitarian spirit.

A 25-year-old man was arrested in Kalamazoo, MI, by the Kalamazoo Valley Enforcement Team for possession with intent to deliver crack cocaine and for having a stolen firearm.

William Wolfe, who admitted to the 2021 killing of Virgil and Kailey Walker, will not be released as previously planned and instead will continue hospitalization.

Michigan sees a seven-cent decrease in gas prices, averaging at $3.03 per gallon, offering slight relief to drivers.

Kalamazoo County recorded 48 home transactions between Dec.

23 and Dec. 29, with a median sale of a 1,064-square-foot home for $275,000.

Kalamazoo County is considering an election to decide on establishing a new sports tournament center, expected to stimulate the economy by $50 million annually through a proposed accommodations tax increase.

Kalamazoo Public Schools Superintendent plans to initiate the year with community meetings on key educational topics, including semester structures, digital report cards, and metal detector installations.

Michigan's Great Beer State Conference & Trade Show

The conference features seminars on brewery operations and a trade show for craft brewing industry professionals, including a sensory evaluation workshop and a dinner reception.

The Art of Reading Smoke Seminar

This seminar led by Rob Backer focuses on teaching firefighters effective tactics for understanding fire behavior through smoke analysis, complemented by hands-on case studies and demonstrations.

Celebrating MLK Day Through Community Service

In honor of MLK's yearly day of service, Milestone Senior Services is hosting a Birthday Cake Kit Drive with donation requests of a cake mix, icing, a can of Sprite (or other lemon-lime soda), candles, and decorative elements such as colored sugar, sprinkles, etc. Any items can be brought to Milestone Senior Services, 918 Jasper, Kalamazoo, MI 49001, where kits will be assembled and given to Loaves and Fishes for distribution to families to help them celebrate a special day!

Traditional Bowhunters Expo 2025

This expo features archery supplies and demonstrations, showcasing products relevant to traditional bowhunting enthusiasts.

Contra & Square Dance Workshop

Enjoy an evening of dancing with a beginning workshop and live music at the Oshtemo Grange Hall.

The Lion King Musical

The Lion King is a critically acclaimed, Tony Award-winning musical that brings the beloved Disney movie to life with stunning visuals and engaging performances.

Disney's The Lion King

Disney's The Lion King brings to life the visually stunning and musically captivating tale of the Serengeti through exceptional performances and theatrical artistry.