Remembering the Kalamazoo Junior Symphony’s “Dr. Bob”
Dr. Robert Ritsema led the Kalamazoo Junior Symphony Orchestra from 1978 to 2001. When news came of his passing last year, current director Andrew Koehler acknowledged the loss in remarks during the spring program, but the upcoming concert at 3 p.m. Sunday, Feb 15 at Chenery Auditorium will be a more complete...
United Way Southwest Michigan celebrates critical 211 Call Service
ST. JOSEPH, Mich. -- Feb. 11 is National 221 Day, an annual observance celebrating the three-digit, 24/7 help resource that connects people across the US and Canada with local health and human services free of charge. The vital service supports neighbors in need throughout Berrien, Cass, and Van Buren Counties.
New stage, viewing platforms planned for historic Michigan winery, music venue
Plans include bringing in 14 shipping containers to create "mini suites," bathrooms, concession areas, bars and a merchandise space.
20 major projects fueling a $9.5 billion investment surge in Southwest Michigan
KALAMAZOO, MI —Southwest Michigan is experiencing an all-time high $9.5 billion in economic development across its seven-county reach. Jonas Peterson, CEO for Southwest Michigan First, highlighted some of the projects driving that phenomenon during the organization’s annual State of Economic Development last...
Missile Defense Plan Could Transform Battle Creek
Battle Creek, Michigan, may soon live up to the “Battle” in its name with the possible installation of a new defense missile system.
Michigan woman arrested in connection to homicide of Fort Wayne teen
Initially, the FWPD charged Burch with murder, believing her to be responsible for Jacobs' death, and a detective traveled to Michigan for an interview on February 5.
Kroger proposed west of Kalamazoo raises walkability concerns
KALAMAZOO COUNTY, MI -- A developer wants to build a Kroger just west of Kalamazoo. But there’s concern among township staff over whether adding the grocery store fits with Oshtemo Township plans to make the land — 48 acres across from Advia Credit Union, 6400 W. Main St. — more connected and walkable.
Woman who died in weekend camper fire identified; foul play not suspected
LOCKPORT TOWNSHIP, Mich. — Foul play is not suspected surrounding the camper fire that killed a 67-year-old woman on Saturday. Previous | Woman dies after camper fire near Three Rivers Municipal Airport. St. Joseph County Sheriff's Office (SJCSO) deputies and fire personnel responded to reports of 67-year-old Juanita...
Here come the ‘Caniacs’: Special traffic plan made for Raising Cane’s grand opening
PORTAGE, MI — One of the Kalamazoo-area’s busiest routes is bracing for Raising Cane’s grand opening on Feb. 17. The restaurant coming to 6005 S. Westnedge Ave. will be the chain’s fifth to open in Michigan, per a city of Portage press release. The Louisiana-based chain...
Another Familiar Southwest Michigan Name Pops Up in Epstein Files
We recently became aware that Kalamazoo, Michigan is mentioned in the 3.5 million pages released by the Department of Justice (DOJ) under the Epstein Files Transparency Act. Now, the latest batch of unsealed Epstein documents includes a popular aviation company with local ties to Southwest Michigan. Here's what we've...
