Good morning, Portage.

City of Portage will hold a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Friday, October 10 at the renovated Lexington Green Park.

The 23-acre park now offers walking loops, lamp-lighted trails, courts for basketball and pickleball, a bike ramp course, and a new playscape—its upgrade was funded by a $500,000 grant and matching city funds.

The Salvation Army started its Share the Warmth coat drive yesterday and is collecting new and gently used winter coats and outdoor apparel to help keep neighbors warm as colder temperatures approach — local drop-off sites are available in Portage and Kalamazoo.

A local program is showing early success in breaking the cycle of abuse by offering support that keeps people from going to jail.

The initiative provides help to those in abusive relationships—ensuring they get care instead of facing incarceration.

Former Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra president and CEO Jonathan Martin will become the interim president and CEO of the Kalamazoo Symphony Orchestra as Jessica Gully leaves October 10 for The Saint Paul Chamber Orchestra.

The board has launched a national search for a permanent leader — guided by representatives from Aspen Leadership Group and a search committee led by Pamela Enslen.

A survey found that 60% of West Michigan parents say high childcare costs limit their ability to work.

Business and community leaders met in September and said public—private partnerships may ease the childcare shortage across 13 counties.

The rare full October Harvest Moon will rise Oct.

6th at 11:48 p.m. and will look brighter and larger than usual as it becomes a supermoon visible from Sunday through Tuesday— marking the first of three supermoons in a row— a rare show for sky watchers.

Fall Craft Show

10 AM – 3 PM — Girl Scouts Heart of Michigan Kalamazoo Regional Program and Training Center — Free entry — Explore over 40 small businesses featuring handmade goods, jewelry, and baked treats.

Trivia Night at The Rooster's Call

6:30-8:30 p.m. — The Rooster’s Call — No cover charge — Test your knowledge and compete in fun trivia games with friends.