Category: Culture

Kalamazoo, MI – Kalamazoo County Health & Community Services Department (HCS) has provided community partners with adult KN95 masks to be distributed to residents, free of charge. Residents can pick up masks from the specified locations during their normal hours of operation and while supplies last. Masking, when done correctly, is a critical tool for […]

As we near the end of September, the celebration of National Fall Foliage Week couldn’t be more perfectly timed. Starting the last Sunday in September in Southwest Michigan, it’s the favorite time of year for many with perfect crisp temperatures, colorful landscapes, and the smell of cinnamon, apples, and donuts in the air. Gorgeous fall […]

On any given Sunday in autumn, finding a place for brunch can be scary—long lines and cold breezes can make a wait unbearable. If making your decision where to go has you all scrambled, we’ve gathered a few spots for you to consider in advance, so there’s no need for waffling! Although “pancake” is in […]

Treystar invites the public to an opening and dedication ceremony to officially open downtown Kalamazoo’s newest outdoor space to enjoy community, arts, music, and social interactions. Known as Haymarket Plaza, the community celebration is set for Thursday, September 16, from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Driven by the belief that downtown commercial spaces create opportunities […]

Skateboarders have gotten a bad rep for years, but that’s changing. The sport emerged on the west coast in the 1950s as a way for surfers to practice their skills when the waves weren’t cooperating. Over several decades, skateboarding rolled its way across the U.S., finally landing a spot in the 2021 Summer Olympics. For […]

Whether you just ran a half marathon or cheered on your favorite runner on a hot summer day, the first beverage reached for by many is often a cold brew. With the first Friday in August traditionally recognized as International Beer Day, what better way to show your Olympic spirit than by embracing the celebration? […]

Originally reserved for college athletes to help them maintain proper conditioning, training tables don’t have to be reserved only for campus football players anymore. Play a key role in keeping your family healthy and eating well with a visit to one of these nine local farmers markets as we close out National Farmers Market Week. […]

The warm Michigan summer weather continues through September, which means the celebration of National Dairy Month in June can continue all summer long. While a lot of dairy products including cheese, butter, and milk are great, our one true love is ice cream. Ice cream is perfect for a hot summer day—or really any day—and […]

Fireworks have been part of Fourth of July celebrations since the first one back in 1777. Last year, the pandemic hampered most displays, but this year a few communities are bringing back the booms and bangs, along with the accompanying oohs and aahs. So, keep all your fingers and toes and let the experts handle […]

We’re going to let you in on a little secret: today is National Hamburger Day! If you get the chance to enjoy a home-grilled burger this holiday weekend, we challenge you to get out and see how yours stacks up against the pros. And if you don’t, well, taste and see what’s grilling out there. […]

Summer means it’s time to grill out and chill out in Southwest Michigan. FIRST & 42 has gathered a list of four of the sauciest barbecue joints in the region for you to dig into—napkins not required, but highly encouraged. Moe Pritchett, owner of Big Moe’s BBQ Sauce and Catering, is an award-winning chef and […]