Good morning, Portage.

Western Michigan University’s Biosciences Research and Commercialization Center earned $5.3 million from the Michigan Innovation Fund announced on July 14 by Governor Gretchen Whitmer to help local life sciences ventures—this state fund comes from a $60 million pool provided through a partnership with the Michigan Strategic Fund and the MEDC.

Starting Monday, Portage drivers will follow a detour on South Westnedge Avenue for two weeks as construction limits access—only northbound local traffic is allowed from Melody to Bacon, and work will finish on July 28.

Michigan State Senator Sean McCann announced his campaign last Monday for Michigan's 4th Congressional District to unseat Rep. Bill Huizenga in the 2026 election.

He said he would focus on tax relief, Social Security, health care, and fighting special interests for the people of Southwest Michigan.

Kalamazoo County board will appoint an authority board to decide on the new youth sports facility on the west side of Kalamazoo today — the meeting sets the stage for project planning.

Commissioners will review a list of 11 nominees — including youth sports officials, marketing representatives, hotel reps, and a township supervisor — to guide the project.

Emergency rooms across the Midwest reported 84 tick bite cases per 100,000 visits in 2025—the highest rate since 2019 and a significant rise from 56 last year, while a local hospital noted no uptick in Southwest Michigan.

Experts suggest using insect repellent and checking for ticks after spending time outdoors.

Western MI Parade of Homes 2025

6 PM – 7 PM — Home Builders Association — Cost not specified — Experience inspiring home designs at the 35th Annual Parade of Homes.