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Trivia Question❓

The first outdoor pedestrian mall in the United States was constructed in which Michigan cities, which are located near each other?

Answer at the bottom of the newsletter

Kalamazoo Receives Over $1 Billion in Donations for New Career Connect Campus.

Kalamazoo is experiencing a surge of generosity, with over $1 billion in recent donations, including a landmark $100 million gift that is funding the creation of the Kalamazoo Regional Educational Service Agency’s new Career Connect Campus (CCC).

This state-of-the-art hub on the city’s south side aims to provide local students with access to high-demand careers and modern trades.

Inside the CCC, students have the opportunity to gain hands-on experience with advanced technology, such as self-driving car systems and electric and hybrid vehicles.

The recent philanthropy in Kalamazoo is described as unprecedented by community leaders, who believe that these investments will have a significant impact on education, workforce readiness, and long-term opportunities in the region.

To learn more about this initiative, individuals can visit Crain’s Grand Rapids Business, NowKalamazoo, and Second Wave Media for additional information on the CCC and student perspectives.

LOCAL HEROS

Amazon Delivery Driver Saves Man from House Fire in Portage, Michigan.

An Amazon delivery driver in Portage, Michigan, Cedric Figures, saved a man from a house fire by acting quickly and extinguishing the flames.

Figures believes it was divine intervention that placed him in the right place at the right time. He said "I feel like God put me in that spot."

The fire was started accidentally when the resident bumped his walker against the stove.

Figures' heroic actions are credited with preventing a potentially catastrophic situation.

The Portage Fire Department commended his bravery and quick thinking.

Figures humbly states that he was just doing what anyone would do in that situation.

A fire safety event is planned for residents to prevent similar incidents in the future.

Welder from Kalamazoo awarded Carnegie Medal for heroism in Lake Michigan rescue.

Gerold Prather, a 22-year-old welder from Kalamazoo, was awarded the Carnegie Medal for heroism for rescuing a drowning teenager in Lake Michigan.

Prather acted quickly when he heard cries for help at the beach and swam out to save the boy, pushing him towards land.

Without hesitation, Prather carried the teenager on his back to safety, with another man's assistance.

Despite the tragic loss of the boy's friends, Prather's courageous actions saved a life.

Congressman Bill Huizenga presented Prather with the prestigious medal in recognition of his selfless and heroic act.

RECENT RESTAURANTS IN THE AREA

Burdick's Bar & Grill Reopens in Downtown Kalamazoo with Enhanced Dining and Entertainment Experience

The long-awaited reopening of Burdick's Bar & Grill in downtown Kalamazoo is finally here. It reopens TODAY (9-23-25)

After a total renovation, the popular restaurant now boasts a larger space with 348 seats, two private dining rooms, duckpin bowling lanes, and multiple screens to catch all the game day action.

The updated menu features stone-fired pizzas, signature burgers, Italian panuozzos, and a selection of Michigan craft beer and cocktails.

With a new emphasis on customer experience and entertainment, Burdick's aims to be the go-to spot for celebrations and everyday gatherings in Kalamazoo.

Reservations can be made online at their website.

Mex House: A Fusion of Mexican and American Cuisine in Portage, Michigan

Mex House in Portage, Michigan offers a cozy atmosphere with subtle details and bilingual conversations.

Owned by Alberto Gomez, Lupita Gomez, and Itzel Ruiz, the restaurant serves a mix of Mexican and American cuisine for breakfast and lunch.

The chilaquiles, molletes, and quesa birria are customer favorites.

The restaurant also offers Mexican soups on weekends.

Mex House aims to provide a unique dining experience by blending both cultures, with options like pancakes and aqua fresca or a Monte Cristo sandwich and Aqua de Jamaica.

Open daily from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m., Mex House provides a welcoming family vibe for customers to enjoy.

THIS WEEK'S UPCOMING EVENTS

Tree Planting Event at Celery Flats in Portage, MI on September 26, 2025!

On Friday, September 26, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Celery Flats in Portage, MI, join us for a free tree planting event.

Volunteer and help restore Portage's green spaces with provided supplies and instructions.

Take part in this community effort to enhance the environment and promote sustainability.

Don't miss this opportunity to make a positive impact and contribute to the beautification of the local area.

Yacht Rock Night at Presidential Brewing Co. on September 26, 2025

Join us at Presidential Brewing Co. on Friday, September 26, 2025, from 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM for a ticketed event featuring live performances of yacht rock classics.

Enjoy great craft brews in the beer garden while listening to your favorite smooth tunes.

It's the perfect way to unwind and relax on a Friday evening in Portage, MI.

Don't miss out on this unique opportunity to experience the nostalgia of yacht rock music in a laid-back and enjoyable atmosphere.

Raise Funds and Raise Spirits at Glass Art Kalamazoo's Fundraiser Event

Glass Art Kalamazoo is hosting a ticketed fundraiser on Friday, September 26, 2025, from 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM.

The event will feature themed drinks, live glass art demonstrations, and a community celebration.

Guests can expect a lively atmosphere while supporting a good cause.

Get Ready to Laugh at Crawlspace Comedy Theatre's Original Show 'Deep Fake It Till You Make It' on September 26-27, 2025!

Experience fresh laughs with the local sketch comedy troupe at Crawlspace Comedy Theatre in Kalamazoo on September 26-27, 2025, from 7:30 PM to 9:30 PM.

The troupe will be performing their original show "Deep Fake It Till You Make It," promising a night filled with humor and entertainment.

Admission is ticketed, so be sure to secure your spot for a fun-filled evening of comedic performances.

Don't miss out on the opportunity to support local talent and enjoy a night of laughter with friends and family.

Kalamazoo County Expo Center Hosts Mom to Mom Resale Event for Bargain Hunters

On Saturday, September 27, 2025, from 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM, the Kalamazoo County Expo Center will host a popular resale event offering gently used items for babies, kids, and families.

Bargain hunters can expect to find a variety of items at the event, which requires a small admission fee.

This is an ideal opportunity for those looking for affordable deals on quality products for their children and family. More info here

Kalamazoo County Expo Center's Seasonal Showcase: A Celebration of Handmade Crafts and Artisan Creations

The Kalamazoo County Expo Center will host a seasonal showcase on September 27-28, 2025, from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM.

The event will feature a variety of handmade crafts and artisan creations for attendees to explore.

Admission is either free or requires a small fee.

It is a great opportunity for visitors to browse and purchase unique, locally made items while supporting the artisans. More info here

Neon Glow Party at Presidential Brewing Co. in Portage, MI on September 27th!

Join us on September 27th at Presidential Brewing Co.

in Portage, MI for a neon glow-in-the-dark party to celebrate the end of the beer garden season.

From 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM, enjoy music, lights, and fun in a vibrant atmosphere.

Admission is ticketed, so make sure to secure your spot for a night of unforgettable entertainment.

Don't miss out on this exciting event to close out the season with a bang.

Get ready to dance and have a great time at the glow-in-the-dark neon party.

Emanuel Ax to Perform Beethoven's Piano Concerto No. 3 with Kalamazoo Symphony Orchestra on September 27, 2025

Grammy-winning pianist Emanuel Ax will be performing Beethoven's Piano Concerto No.

3 with the Kalamazoo Symphony Orchestra at Miller Auditorium in WMU, Kalamazoo on September 27, 2025, at 7:30 PM.

Admission is ticketed for this highly anticipated event.

Downtown Kalamazoo to Host Free City-Wide Music Festival on September 28, 2025

On Sunday, September 28, 2025, Downtown Kalamazoo will host a city-wide music festival from 1:00 PM to 8:00 PM.

The event is free to attend and will feature multiple stages with diverse bands and genres for an afternoon of live performances.

Attendees can enjoy a variety of music throughout the day in a vibrant and lively atmosphere.

💡 Answer to Trivia Question:

Kalamazoo and Portage, Michigan.