Good morning, Portage.

A West Michigan tree farm was named national grand champion by the National Christmas Tree Association and will provide the White House with its annual Christmas tree this December.

Owners of Korson's Tree Farm in Sidney thanked their team on Facebook — a win that highlights the farm's expertise — as they prepare for the holiday display.

Friends of Michigan Animals Rescue warned animal lovers when a fake Instagram account using stolen photos of sick and abused pets to request donations was reported by a follower — the shelter board asked for the account to remove their logo though the similar name remains.

The Air Zoo in Portage recovered over 80,000 artifacts damaged by the May 7, 2024 tornadoes with help from Prism Specialties and local staff—community funding from the Tyler-Little Family Foundation helped restore the museum, which was back in operation by Thanksgiving.

Wildfire smoke from Canada is lowering air quality and visibility across Michigan, and the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality has issued an air quality alert for people with respiratory issues—residents are advised to limit outdoor activities as the National Weather Service said the smoke will persist through Saturday while warm, dry conditions continue.

Michigan lawmakers are discussing a new bill that would let adults with a PTSD diagnosis possess up to two ounces of psilocybin for personal treatment — the proposal, sponsored by Rep. Matt Longjohn from Portage, is in its early stages.

Kalamazoo County created a community grant portal to give $400,000 to non-profits with new programs—commissioners received 61 applications requesting a total of $7.2 million and will select winners during this year’s budget deliberations for next year.

Portage city staff are reviewing a plan to turn dead trees into firewood after last year’s tornado left many trees uprooted in the city.

Council member Vic Ledbetter said the idea could help remove fire hazards while avoiding liability risks from letting residents use chainsaws on the trees.

Michigan tennis stars will compete in the 2025 USTA Boys Nationals at Stowe Stadium in Kalamazoo, with tournament play starting on Friday.

The event will feature top in-state talent as they advance through the competition.

BrickUniverse LEGO Fan Expo - VIP

9-10:30 a.m. — Kalamazoo County Expo Center — VIP Admission $28.99 — Experience the largest collection of LEGO creations under one roof and meet professional artists.

Stewardship Day

9:00 a.m. — Gourdneck State Game Area north-east parking lot — Free (Registration required) — Participate in invasive species removal and support local public lands in Portage.