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Kalamazoo

Turning 65? Your Medicare Sign-Up Window Is Seven Months Long

Kalamazoo – October 09, 2026 -- Anyone turning 65 has a seven-month window to sign up for Medicare, and missing it without qualifying coverage can mean delayed benefits or higher premiums, according to a HelloNation article featuring Joe Garcia of SMG - SafeHarbor Management Group in Kalamazoo, Michigan.

Enrollment is not always automatic at 65, the article explains. Planning ahead helps Michigan retirees get benefits on time and avoid unnecessary long-term costs.

The Initial Enrollment Period runs three months before and after your birthday month

The window begins three months before the month of a person's 65th birthday, includes that month, and continues for three months afterward. During this time, eligible people can enroll in Part A and Part B, plus Part D prescription drug coverage if needed.

Kalamazoo Marathon Opens 2027 Registration After $1.1M Economic Boost

Kalamazoo – September 15, 2026 -- Registration is now open for the 48th Zeigler Kalamazoo Marathon, set to return to downtown Kalamazoo and Bronson Park on April 24-25, 2027.

The 2026 race generated more than $1,124,000 in local economic impact

Discover Kalamazoo reported the figure after last year's event drew over 5,000 registered participants and thousands of spectators to downtown streets. Organizers also donated more than $8,000 to local charities and distributed over $4,000 in financial assistance to participants.

A redesigned 5K course cuts down on turns for 2027

New participants will also receive an exclusive commemorative long-sleeve quarter-zip, and the Beacon Health Expo will offer all-day activities throughout race weekend. Runners can register through a "Start to Finish Bundle" training package offered with Run Kalamazoo Run Camp.