The latest from Southwest Michigan.
GVSU Expands Programming in Battle Creek with $10M Grant from W.K. Kellogg Foundation
Grand Valley State University announced plans to renovate the Kendall Center to accommodate new university programs as part of a three-year, $10.3 million grant from the W.K. Kellogg Foundation. The grant will serve Battle Creek area residents by offering GVSU degrees and certificates, growing the food innovation economy, and investing in an aging workforce and new industry opportunities.
$32.7M Project will Bring 82 Apartments, New Restaurant to Downtown Kalamazoo
A vacant commercial building at 203 N. Rose Street in downtown Kalamazoo will soon be home to 82 new residential units with a ground-floor restaurant. The $32.7 million project, called Arcadia Lofts, will be funded in part by a $4.875 million loan from the state’s Michigan Strategic Fund.
‘First Fridays’ Entertainment Initiative Aims to Draw More People to Downtown Battle Creek
If you are looking for something fun to do, Battle Creek has got you covered. The city, together with business owners and event organizers, recently launched a new initiative to draw more people to the downtown area. Residents may now enjoy live entertainment on the first Friday of every month in downtown Battle Creek.
Bell’s Brewery Kicks Off 2024 Beer Garden Concert Series
The 2024 Beer Garden Concert Series at Bell’s Brewery in Kalamazoo hosted its first performance of the season on Monday. The series, held throughout the summer, rain or shine, features performances by artists playing indie, folk, pop, rock, orchestral, and American reggae music.
Gilmore Car Museum Unveils New Features for Visitors
One of the top tourist attractions in Southwest Michigan, the Gilmore Car Museum in Hickory Corners unveiled a new multi-purpose carriage house event center that can be rented for just about anything. There’s also a new permanent and historic bar, just sent over from a famous restaurant in Detroit for visitors to enjoy.
Mendon Welcomes 61st Dust-Off Car Show with More than 400 Vintage Vehicles
Classic cars rolled up to Mendon High School in St. Joseph County yesterday for the 61st Dust-Off car show. According to organizers, the event featured more than 400 vintage and antique and collector cars and trucks.
Binder Park Zoo Opens its Doors for the 47th Season
New to visitors this year is the permanent home and habitat for the zoo’s beloved goat population. Also open is SkyLark Ridge, which boasts five ziplines that are three stories tall. There are structures available for those above and below 48 inches, so park-goers of all ages may enjoy the attraction.
Marvel Comics Illustrator Jerry DeCaire to Visit Albion District Library May 4
Marvel Comics illustrator Jerry DeCaire will discuss the craft of art and illustration, and share what it’s like to be an artist, during a visit to the Albion District Library on May 4. The event, intended for children in grades 5-12, as well as adults, is free and open to the public.
Veteran Launches ‘Puppy Playground’ in Galesburg with Dog Park and Daycare
A new, combined dog park and doggy daycare is opening in Galesburg. Owned by a local veteran, the Puppy Playground aims to be a one-stop shop for dog owners, featuring an indoor and outdoor park, overnight kennels, a groomer, and even a full concession stand for owners.
New Arena Plans: See Designs for Water Features, Courtyard, Parking Deck, Slimmer Street
Kalamazoo will narrow one of its downtown roads to make way for wider sidewalks, a parking structure, and an outdoor plaza to pave the way for the new $300 million downtown arena. Plans also include a skybridge in between the arena and the parking ramp as well as an educational water feature, a reflective pool, and waterfall.
New Kalamazoo ‘Cakery’ Brings Sweet Philosophy Downtown
Meka Phillips, who specializes in creating custom cakes for all occasions, is getting ready to open her first brick-and-mortar location in downtown Kalamazoo called Dessert First. In addition to sweets, the “cakery” will also have affordable breakfast and lunch offerings five days a week.
South Haven Proposes Expanded Social District
The South Haven City Council voted this week to approve plans that will implement several changes regarding the city’s social district. These include extending the daily hours, extending the season, and updating signage to make the boundaries more clear.