NL - KPVibe 9-9-25

NL - KPVibe

What’s Planned for the New Entertainment Venue?

Zap Zone XL’s proposed offerings include a robust lineup of attractions designed to appeal to a wide audience:

Go-karts
Bowling lanes
Skating rink
Laser tag
Mini-golf
Arcade
An adventure park area

On-site restaurant, potentially with a bar and grill

Additionally, Summit Properties has revealed plans for a bungee trampoline attraction in the mall’s center court—a complementary entertainment feature aimed at boosting overall foot traffic

And for grown-ups looking to unwind, Zap Zone XL is pursuing a liquor license to offer a full-service bar and dining area—making it a versatile spot for date nights, corporate outings, and kid-free evenings.

Building Community Through Entertainment

President Mike Hafez envisions the venue as more than just a play space. With room for up to 1,500 guests, it’s designed to host birthday parties, team-building events, and community gatherings.

The project is still in its early development stages, with no official opening date announced, but excitement is already building across Kalamazoo and Portage.

Potential Data Center in Pavilion Township Sparks Job Creation and Resource Utilization Discussion

A potential new data center in Pavilion Township, Michigan, is being discussed as a way to bring jobs and utilize natural resources.

The proposal, located on a plot of land owned by real estate company Franklin Partners, is still in its preliminary stages.

The township has confirmed that the land has been available for three years and has seen various ideas for development, with the latest being the construction of a data center for an unidentified company. Pavilion Supervisor John Speeter believes the location's access to airport, highway, and rail services makes it prime property for expanding businesses.

However, concerns have been raised by nearby residents about potential impacts on utility costs and water usage.

Despite these concerns, Consumers Energy has expressed readiness to provide reliable energy to support economic development in the area. While the project still requires approval from the planning commission and township board, interested parties seem to be supportive of the development.

A public hearing is scheduled for September 18th for residents to share their thoughts on the proposal.

KZOO Cream Frosted Whispers Cookies: A Sweet Success Story from a Local Baker in Kalamazoo

Kristi Potts of Kalamazoo fulfilled her dream of opening her own bakery, Kzoo Cream, with a grand opening on September 2, 2025.

The bakery features her mother's famous cream cheese sugar cookies called “Frosted Whispers,” and other unique flavors like almond cream and lemon cream.

Potts sourced local ingredients for her cookies, and offers them for $1 each or 10 for $7.

In addition to cookies, Kzoo Cream serves soft-serve ice cream and dirty sodas.

Potts, who secured funding from the city and Michigan Women Forward, took a risk by investing all her life savings in the business.

Despite the challenges, Potts is confident in the success of Kzoo Cream and is currently hiring culinary interns.

Visit the bakery's website for more information.

There is a LOT happening in Kalamazoo and Portage this coming weekend!

Check out some of the events below.

"September 2025 Food Truck Rally at Arcadia Festival Site in Kalamazoo: A Celebration of Local Cuisine, Small Businesses, and Live Music" A Taste of Kalamazoo.

A lively monthly food truck rally celebrating local cuisine, small businesses, and live music will take place at the Arcadia Festival Site in Kalamazoo on September 12, 2025, from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM.

Admission is free.

The event will feature food trucks offering a variety of delicious dishes, as well as performances by Matthew Borr and Northern Ground.

It's a great opportunity to support local vendors and enjoy a fun evening of food and music in a festive atmosphere. Click for more info

Celebrating Local Creativity: Art Exhibition at Portage City Hall showcasing West Michigan Area Show Winner

An art exhibition will be held at City Hall in Portage from September 12 to November 7, 2025, showcasing the work of the Portage-winning artist from the West Michigan Area Show.

Admission to the exhibition is free, and it aims to celebrate and highlight local creativity in the area.

The event provides an opportunity for the community to appreciate and support the talents of artists in Portage and the wider West Michigan area. Click here for more info

"Inclusive Dance Event on September 12, 2025 at Portage Parks & Recreation Building"

A dance event is being held on September 12, 2025, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM at the Portage Parks & Recreation Building.

The event is inclusive and catered to people of all abilities, featuring a local DJ and refreshments.

Admission requires a registration fee, and chaperones can attend for free.

The event aims to provide a fun and enjoyable experience for everyone in a welcoming and accessible environment. Click here for more info

Fall Fest Farmers Market Extravaganza at City Hall in Portage: A Celebration of Local Vendors and Community Spirit - September 14, 2025, 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM!

Join us at City Hall in Portage on September 14, 2025, from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM for a free farmers market featuring local produce, baked goods, and crafts.

Enjoy family-friendly fall activities such as live music and tractor rides.

It's a vibrant event that offers something for everyone to enjoy, making it the perfect way to spend a Saturday morning supporting local vendors and indulging in delicious treats.

Don't miss out on this opportunity to immerse yourself in the community spirit and celebrate the season in a fun and festive atmosphere.

Click here for more info

"Multi-Event Extravaganza at Kalamazoo Expo Center: Gun & Knife Show, Indoor Flea Market, Holistic & Metaphysical Fair, Reptile & Exotic Pet Expo"

The Kalamazoo Expo Center will host a variety of events on September 13-14, including a Gun & Knife Show, an Indoor Flea Market, a Holistic & Metaphysical Fair, and a Reptile & Exotic Pet Expo.

The Gun & Knife Show will feature firearms and related accessories, the Indoor Flea Market will offer a wide array of unique items for sale, the Holistic & Metaphysical Fair will showcase products and services promoting health and wellness, and the Reptile & Exotic Pet Expo will provide a platform for enthusiasts to buy and sell exotic pets and supplies.

Attendees can explore a range of interests and hobbies at these diverse expos. Click here for more info