Category: Around the Region

One place that’s not closing its doors during this period is nature! That’s right, the great outdoors has decided to bloom for us in our time of need. In fact, Michigan’s Department of Recreation (DNR) has waived the need for the recreation passport to access state parks, trails, and forests. While getting outside is permitted […]

During times of adversity, the Kalamazoo community is well known to step-up and support one another. This current pandemic is no different. Organizations, businesses, and individuals are continuing to step up and provide additional support for those in need. As resources become available, we will update this web page. For now, check out what is […]

When it comes to good pizza, Kalamazoo really delivers. Whether you’re looking for thin crust or thick, sit down or carry out, meat lovers or veggie extreme, you can grab a slice in our region. We’ve boxed them up for you below. A treat smuggled straight out of Italy, Bimbo’s has served up slices since […]

We’re dreaming of the dog days of summer. While you can never know what Michigan weather will throw at you, with the days getting longer we don’t think it’s too far-fetched to say that warmer days are ahead. Prepare to take advantage of the nice spring days and plan your trips to dog parks in […]

Valentine’s Day is tomorrow and you’re feeling more prepared than usual. You’ve made the reservations, selected the perfect outfit, and even have a bottle of wine chilling for drinks before, but what about the gift? While it may be too late to surprise your loved one with a puppy, Kalamazoo does have several local options […]

Whether you’re hosting or visiting in Kalamazoo this Thanksgiving, we know one thing is certain, at some point Wednesday evening you will want to get away from your relatives. Instead of hiding in your damp Michigan basement or beneath the pile of laundry, head downtown for the evening and have some fun. We have you […]

On August 8, 2019, Landscape Forms hosted a celebration for its 50th anniversary of crafting unique products for enjoyment across the world. The beautiful weather was the perfect complement to Landscape Forms’ 50th anniversary celebration, as more than 100 community leaders gathered in the summer sun at the company’s Kalamazoo, Michigan home base. The event […]

Benton Employment Solutions is working with area teens to set them up for success.  There is nothing more important to a teenager than freedom—but after turning in final exams at the end of another school year, kids are hit with a hard truth: Going out with friends every day isn’t cheap. For high school students, […]

At this Gourmet Gala, the March of Dimes Celebrates Serving up Miracles: An Inside Look with Mark Jones. DETAILS COURTESY OF MARK JONES Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Amerifirst Home Mortgage, Presenting Sponsor of March of Dimes Signature Chefs Auction EVENT: Signature Chefs Auction ORGANIZATION: March of Dimes DATE: September 19, 2019 TIME: 5:30 […]

College students return to the region for career-building internships. For Michigan State University student Kimberly Verduzco, summer vacation doesn’t mean a hiatus from working toward career goals. Verduzco, who studies advertising with a minor in public relations, is spending her summer working as an intern at economic development catalyst Southwest Michigan First. “The thing that […]

Miniature Custom Manufacturing Recognized for Growth Trajectory. Sparkling confetti rained down on Steve Shoemaker as he stood—attired in a black tux and bow tie—center stage at the Breslin Center in East Lansing, Michigan. It was the evening of May 8, 2019, and his organization had just been named one of the 2019 “Michigan 50 Companies […]

When regional organizations provide excellent internship experiences, everyone benefits. Between the region’s nine colleges and universities, nearly 43,000 students step onto campus each academic year in Southwest Michigan. These students gain vital experiences in their years spent at these institutions, but classroom learning isn’t always enough to prepare them to launch straight into a career […]