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QUOTE OF THE DAY

 

"The price of success is hard work, dedication to the job at hand."

 

VINCE LOMBARDI

Monday, September 8
 
Today marks the start of National Waffle Week, first popularized in America after Thomas Jefferson brought a waffle iron back from France in the 1700s. By 1869, the U.S. had its first patented waffle iron, and by the 1964 World’s Fair, Belgian waffles had captured the nation’s taste. Good ideas travel far, and ours aim to go the distance too. This week in FIRST & 42, a groundbreaking in Texas Township signals more industrial growth, a new water treatment plant promises cleaner taps citywide, and the largest Talsma Furniture store takes shape in Kalamazoo. Plus, don’t miss out on the Business Community Homelessness and Housing Framework Input Session on Thursday, September 11, where local leaders will gather to share insights and help shape solutions for housing and homelessness in Kalamazoo.
Today's Weather

High of 67°F | Partly sunny. Warm and sunny midweek, mild heading into the weekend.
Clark Logic Breaks Ground in Texas Township
 
Clark Logic has broken ground on a new 153,000-square-foot industrial facility near I-94 and Ninth Street in Texas Township. The $15 million project will be complete in mid-2026, offering flexible space for one or two tenants. With more than 7 million square feet already under management, Clark Logic is cementing its role as a regional leader in logistics and industrial growth. Southwest Michigan First joined partners and community leaders at the groundbreaking, celebrating the investment’s positive impact on the region. Read the full story here.
Kalamazoo Begins $60M Water Upgrade
 
Kalamazoo is launching a three-year, $60 million project to overhaul its drinking water system, starting today. The centerpiece is a new $50 million treatment facility on the city’s east side, designed to remove iron, manganese, and PFAS from groundwater. Another $10 million will replace aging water mains and connect key stations, improving efficiency and water quality for thousands of residents. City leaders say the investment will strengthen reliability and safety for decades to come. Read the full story here.
 
Article courtesy of WKZO.
65,000-Square-Foot Retail Build in Kalamazoo
 
Frontline Construction has broken ground on its largest project to date, a 65,000-square-foot Talsma Furniture store coming to Kalamazoo. The new location marks Talsma’s first entry into the market and adds a major retail option for the community. The project is a milestone for Frontline, which has grown steadily since its founding in 2019, building a reputation on quality and client-focused service. Leaders say the build reflects both the company’s growth and Kalamazoo’s strong appeal for new investment. Read the press release here.
 
Press release courtesy of Frontline Construction Services.
Business Community Homelessness and Housing Framework Input Session on Thursday
 
The business community is invited to help shape Kalamazoo’s draft housing framework on Thursday, September 11, from 8 to 9:30 a.m. at The Catalyst Center. Hosted by Southwest Michigan First and The Chamber, this session will gather input from local leaders on solutions to address homelessness and strengthen the full housing system. Businesses are encouraged to share insights, ask questions, and help guide strategies that will benefit both residents and the local economy. Register here.
 

Check out other upcoming events from Southwest Michigan First and our partners:

  • MRC Tacos & Tequila Crawl in downtown Kalamazoo | Saturday, September 13
  • Rise & Thrive Coffee Connect at Kalamazoo Nature Center | Tuesday, September 16
  • 2025 Local Officials Academy | Understanding Michigan’s Energy Grid at the Burma Center | Wednesday, September 17
  • Chamber’s Choice Small Business Conference and Celebration at WMU Dalton Center | Thursday, September 18
  • Fall Engineering Job Fair at WMU Floyd Hall | Wednesday, September 24
  • MIX Design Day 2025 at The Catalyst Center | Thursday, October 2
The Jobs Board

 

Join Southwest Michigan's most innovative brands who use our Jobs Board to recruit must-have talent. Postings are live on our website for 60 days, appear four (4) consecutive weeks in FIRST & 42, and receive one (1) social media shout-out.

 

Learn more about using the FIRST & 42 Jobs Board to reach educated professionals in our region to fill your employment needs

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All-Star Stunt Dog Show This Weekend

 

America’s favorite stunt dogs return to Gull Meadow Farms for two weekends of jaw-dropping performances, Friday, September 12 to Sunday, September 14 and Friday, September 19 to Sunday, September 21. From flips and handstands to high-flying disc catches, these shelter-adopted dogs will wow the crowd while promoting pet adoption and responsible ownership. Recognized from national shows and parades, the All-Star Stunt Dogs bring family-friendly fun that’s equal parts heart and high energy. Tickets are $19.99 per person. Learn more here.

 

Here are some other enjoyable events in the region this week:

  • TONIGHT! WMU Volleyball vs. Michigan State at Read Fieldhouse | Monday, September 8
  • Fall Fit Fest at Anytime Fitness Stevensville | Tuesday, September 9
  • 50th Anniversary Bash at Richland Community Library | Friday, September 12
  • Vintage Motorcycle Weekend at Gilmore Car Museum | Saturday, September 13 - Sunday, September 14
Investor Spotlight

 

Each week, we'd like to thank our Investors for supporting the economic growth of Southwest Michigan. Southwest Michigan First could not accomplish our mission without your support, involvement, and enthusiasm.
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First Loves

 

Accompanied by a thunderous round of applause, we'd like to shout out a "thank you!" to the following supporters of the Southwest Michigan First mission; Bay Pointe; Huber Real Estate; Jersey Giant SUBS!; Kalamazoo Drop-In Child Care Center; LegalShield; Pretty Lake Camp; and Sp33d Insurance Agency.

 

Brought to you by the Southwest Michigan First Chamber.

Southwest Michigan First, 180 E. Water Street, Suite 2690, Kalamazoo, MI 49007, United States, 269.553.9588

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