The latest from Southwest Michigan.
Fundraising Campaign Underway for New Park at Site of Former School in Niles
A fundraising campaign to turn the site of a former school building into a park has begun in the city of Niles. The Ferry Street School was built in 1867 and was used for various purposes until it burned down in 2023. The original facade of the school will serve as an entryway to the new Ferry Street School Memorial Park and will include seating and a stage to host small music shows, concerts, or family reunions.
Kalamazoo Rx Kids is Ready to Launch, Giving $7,500 to All Families with New Babies
Kalamazoo’s new Rx Kids program—available to all expectant parents and babies born after Feb. 1, 2025—will open for enrollment this week. The first-of-its-kind program for Kalamazoo offers a no-strings-attached cash payment of $1,500 mid-pregnancy and $500 each month during the first year of a baby’s life for families in the city limits.
Experience Communal Dining at Farrand Hall with Local Flavors
At Farrand Hall, the focus is on good food and good company. Unlike a traditional restaurant, everyone who comes is served the same meal and sits together at a large 40 top table. Guest chefs are scheduled for every Saturday from May through October.
Greenleaf Hospitality Group Celebrates 25 years in Kalamazoo
The host of Kalamazoo, Greenleaf Hospitality Group (GHG) is celebrating 25 years of delivering exceptional dining, lodging, and entertainment experiences. Check out some of the incredible deals they are offering, including a revival of the beloved Zazios delivery through Grubhub and Doordash for a limited time!
Homegrown Success in Southwest Michigan
Meet Javon Myles, Sr., who built his career at Greenleaf Hospitality Group, starting in housekeeping and growing into the Event Services Manager role.
Chili Tour to Return to Downtown St. Joseph
Whether you like your chili mild, sweet, or fiery hot, you’ll find more than 25 ways to chase away the winter chill during the return of the annual Chili Tour on Friday, January 31.
Kalamazoo Ranks #90 on the 2024 U.S. News & World Report List of Best Places to Live
The ranking highlights Kalamazoo’s unique blend of affordability, job market strength, and quality of life. With its vibrant downtown, strong educational institutions, and welcoming community, Kalamazoo continues to stand out as a top choice for residents and newcomers alike.
Kalamazoo Grad Named to Forbes ‘30 Under 30′ List, Wants to Reinvest at Home
Tinashe Chaponda was named to the Forbes “30 under 30″ list for his work at Sosani Studios, an influencer marketing company he founded in 2020. Now he’s using his influence to raise money for 30 scholarships for Kalamazoo-area high school and college students.
Kalamazoo Gears up for Annual New Year’s Fest Celebration
Held in Bronson Park in downtown Kalamazoo, New Year’s Fest is an all-ages performing arts festival to ring in the new year. Featuring bands, comedians, magicians, ventriloquists and more, party goers may enjoy over 70 shows throughout the night.
Gilmore Car Museum Dazzles with Classic Cars, Holiday Lights, and Festive Attractions
Catch the return of the “Winter Wonderland Holiday Experience” at the Gilmore Car Museum! The third-annual event features dozens of dynamic lighting displays, holiday music, rides in classic cars, and holiday-themed food and drinks across the 90-acre campus.
62nd Annual Maple Hill Holiday Parade in Downtown Kalamazoo on November 23
Join 20,000 of your closest neighbors and friends in downtown Kalamazoo on Saturday, November 23 to celebrate 62 years of holiday festivities! Ignite your holiday spirit and kick off the holiday season with a community parade and activities like no other.
LMC Pop/Rock Concert is Free November 20 at Mendel Center
Lake Michigan College Visual & Performing Arts Department presents the Pop/Rock and Jazz Band Concert at 7 p.m. Wednesday, November 20. And, there’s a unique twist–the concert, brings the audience into the experience through sitting on stage with the performers.