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Reader Dray Perkins writes, “I expected the storm to bring damage. I expected it to bring power outages. What I did not expect though was the sheer resiliency and camaraderie that were put on display following the weather event.”

During the presentations portion of the meeting, SAFEbuilt, an outside firm that handles much of the city’s building inspection and construction-related work, will give a presentation. The company is presenting per the request of Mayor Angel Johnston and Commissioner Lucas Allen who together requested City Manager Joe Bippus put the item on the agenda. Johnston said the presentation would give SAFEbuilt an opportunity to address concerns she has heard from residents about the company’s conduct, responsiveness, and work throughout the city.

As of now, the case has been filed as a class-action lawsuit against Hyperscale Data Inc. in the Kalamazoo U.S. District Court. The case alleges that because of the constant noise being emitted from the Hyperscale Data Inc. data center, property values for residents living within a mile of the facility are declining.  Attorneys Laura Sheets and Steven Liddle acknowledged there are other impacts associated with the data center — such as environmental concerns and a lack of transparency — however, the case in its current state is only alleging property damage and seeking compensation for those claims. The defendant — Hyperscale Data Inc. — has reviewed those claims and asked for an extension to give an answer, which was granted and is due July 24.

With Fourth of July weekend approaching, communities across southwest Michigan are preparing for parades, fireworks shows, live performances and annual hometown celebrations marking the country’s 250th year of independence. Watershed Voice compiled a guide to events happening across St. Joseph, Cass and Kalamazoo counties, along with a few nearby celebrations worth the drive.

In this first episode of the Good Grief. Nano Learning Podcast, Watershed Voice’s Aundrea Sayrie begins by exploring what grief is, and what it isn’t. Together, you’ll unpack common misconceptions, challenge unrealistic expectations, and create space for honest conversations about healing, loss, and life after change. Whether you’re grieving the loss of a loved one, a relationship, your health, a dream, or another significant life transition, you’re welcome here. Aundrea’s hope is that each short episode leaves you feeling seen, informed, and a little less alone.

Soon after that expansion was initially announced, Dowagiac Mayor Patrick Bakeman and City Manager Kevin Anderson said the city had no more information than the public about the property. This prompted Mayor Bakeman to write the company an open letter on April 1, giving Hyperscale 45 days to provide the city with more information. On the final day, Bakeman said the company agreed to schedule a meeting “with the expectation that we will meet within the week.” Bakeman has provided no further updates on that meeting.  Watershed Voice reached out to Mayor Bakeman seeking an update on the status and content of that meeting but did not receive a response before publication.