by Eric Ringwelski | Feb 9, 2026 | Business
Last Thursday, February 5, 2026, Southwest Michigan First hosted its third annual State of Economic Development event, welcoming more than 500 regional stakeholders, business owners, and community leaders for an afternoon focused on economic insights, emerging trends,...
by Eric Ringwelski | Nov 10, 2025 | Culture, First & 42 Original, Places
A box truck eases into a Kalamazoo parking lot on a warm weekday afternoon. Volunteers unfold tables and set out baskets of bright produce, loaves of bread, and ready-to-cook meal kits with simple recipes tucked inside. Neighbors step forward, take their time, and...
by Eric Ringwelski | Oct 27, 2025 | People
Economic growth is at the core of nearly every local decision, and the next slate of local leaders will directly influence how our community attracts talent, supports small businesses, and invests in quality of place. As a regional economic catalyst, Southwest...
by Eric Ringwelski | Oct 14, 2025 | Culture, People
Economic growth is at the core of nearly every local decision, and the next slate of local leaders will directly influence how our community attracts talent, supports small businesses, and invests in quality of place. As a regional economic catalyst, Southwest...
by Eric Ringwelski | Sep 25, 2025 | People
Governor Gretchen Whitmer has reappointed Dr. Brandy Brown of Kalamazoo to the Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund (MNRTF) Board, where she will continue her service as Chairperson. The appointment, announced in September, highlights Kalamazoo’s leadership on...
