Good morning, Portage.

A memorial has grown around a broken traffic pole at an Oshtemo Township intersection following the fatal crash on Aug.17 that claimed the lives of 19-year-old Exzonia Ann Smetana from Paw Paw & 17-year-old Grace Kavanaugh, as investigators said speed may have played a role.

Officials in Kalamazoo County debated whether to drop DEI language from the county’s contract with LISC for federal COVID-19–funded community programs.

Administrator Kevin Catlin said LISC requested the change to comply with federal orders — county board chair Jen Strebs said the county will keep the original agreement and has put the request on hold as staff awaits LISC’s response.

Kalamazoo County’s health director, Jim Rutherford, resigned to take a state job and deputy health officer Debra Lenz is recommended as interim director pending county board and state health official approval—Rutherford served 13 years and became well known during the COVID-19 pandemic.

On Wednesday evening, the Kansas City Chiefs traded former WMU wide receiver Skyy Moore to the San Francisco 49ers—sending Moore and a 2027 seventh-round pick in exchange for a 2027 sixth-round pick.

Moore, a two-time Super Bowl winner who had spent three seasons with the Chiefs, struggled to secure a consistent role with the offense.

Loy Norrix football is gearing up for a strong season as the Knights plan to challenge Kalamazoo and secure a playoff berth in 2025.

They build on last year’s winning record—seeking redemption and a better postseason position.

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.