WWMT-TV
Fired superintendent to receive $412k+ payout after divided Comstock Twp. board vote
- Title
- Fired superintendent to receive $412k+ payout after divided Comstock Twp. board vote
- Runtime
- 3:27
- Date posted
- 13 days ago
- Description
- High tensions flared during a Comstock Township meeting Monday night as four board members made the decision to give more than $412,000 of township funds to recently fired Superintendent Scott Hess in one lump-sum payment, as part of his release agreement.
The vote centered on a separation agreement, including a liability waiver intended to prevent the township from being sued, and a decision about how a total payout of $412,429.94 should be offered to the superintendent after he was fired without cause at a meeting on June 1.
The four board members who voted yes to making one large payout were the same four who voted to fire him without cause two weeks ago, and the same four who voted to give Hess a $20,000 raise in April 2025.
Clerk Nicole Beauchamp, Trustee Kristie Cherry, Trustee Terry McIver, and Trustee Bob Pratt.
Township Supervisor Ben Martin, Treasurer Sandra Bloomfield, and Trustee Jerry Amos voted against making a lump-sum ...
- Title
- LIVE PICTURE: B-52 crashes in Kern County, California
- Runtime
- 33:50
- Date posted
- 13 days ago
- Description
- A U.S. Air Force B-52 Stratofortress crashed after taking off from Edwards Air Force Base in Kern County, California, on Monday, according to officials.
The B-52 went down on the Edwards airfield around 11:20 a.m., according to a statement made by the base that was posted on X.
"A United States Air Force B-52 Stratofortress crashed shortly after takeoff on the Edwards airfield at 11:20 a.m," the X post reads.
"Emergency crews immediately responded to the scene, and the situation is ongoing. More information will be provided as it becomes available."
It is not yet clear whether anyone has been injured in the crash.
Videos of the crash site showed black smoke rising from an area near the airfield. All inbound aircraft were diverted, according to the base.
STORY: https://wwmt.com/news/nation-world/us-air-force-b-52-stratofortress-crashes-after-takeoff-on-edwards-air-force-base-bomber-kent-county-california-plane-crash...
- Title
- Michigan House Democrats urge prompt budget, Speaker criticizes Governor's trip amid talks
- Runtime
- 2:48
- Date posted
- 14 days ago
- Description
- Michigan's July 1 budget deadline is fast approaching. But, as it stands, there is no agreement between the State House, Senate and Governor.
Now, there are concerns the budget could be pushed well past the deadline.
House Democrats joined education leaders in Detroit Monday, pressing their Republican colleagues to pass a budget and avoid the uncertainties, like those caused by last year's budget delay.
"Families have to live with deadlines, local governments have deadlines, schools have deadlines, businesses have deadlines," Rep. Helena Scott (D-Detroit) said. "The state government should meet the deadlines, too."
With 2025's November budget still in the minds of lawmakers and educators, they say there's no time to waste.
"An on time budget provides stability," Rep. Stephanie A. Young (D-Detroit) said. "It gives community the confidence to plan and invest in the future. A delayed budget does the exact opposite."
- Title
- 'I took the chance’: 87-year-old receives West Michigan's first minimally invasive valve repair
- Runtime
- 2:28
- Date posted
- 14 days ago
- Description
- A major milestone in modern medicine proves it’s never too late to take a chance.
Pat Zerfas, 87, has been dealing with a leaky tricuspid valve in her heart for years, leading to fatigue, swelling in the legs and shortness of breath during daily tasks.
“Day by day, well, it's a little harder to climb the stairs,” Zerfas said. “You're more short of breath.”
The valve is located between the right atrium and right ventricle, and plays a huge role in maintaining proper blood flow.
When significant leaks occur, the only way to fix it is through open-heart surgery.
But when Zerfas was sent for an evaluation, doctors told her they wouldn’t carry out the procedure due to concerns over her age and the severity of the surgery.
“They told me that the valve is pretty bad, but we can't do anything about it,” she said.
That is, until now.
MORE: https://wwmt.com/news/local/heart-val...
- Title
- Police probe suspected murder-suicide after 1 dead, 2 wounded in Michigan home shooting
- Runtime
- 3:10
- Date posted
- 14 days ago
- Description
- Police in Walker are investigating what they now believe was a murder-suicide after a domestic dispute inside a home Monday morning left one man dead and two family members hospitalized with gunshot wounds.
Officers with the Walker Police Department were called just after 7:30 a.m. Monday to a home near the intersection of Bristol Avenue Northwest and Vinecroft Avenue Northwest after receiving reports that a man had shot someone inside the residence and remained inside the home.
When officers arrived, they found a 64-year-old man and a 70-year-old woman suffering from gunshot wounds. Both victims were rushed to area hospitals. Police say their injuries appear to be non-life-threatening, although the woman underwent emergency surgery Monday.
FULL STORY: https://wwmt.com/news/local/incident-bristol-avenue-harding-street-pannell-walker-police-department-wpd-investigation-ongoing-no-danger-public-ketn-county-western-michigan
_______________
- Title
- Kalamazoo County voters to decide 8-year childcare millage addressing affordability
- Runtime
- 2:39
- Date posted
- 14 days ago
- Description
- Residents in Kalamazoo County will soon have a chance to vote on a millage on ballot for the August primary election which seeks to address a shortage of affordable childcare options.
"Kalamazoo County is an existing childcare dessert," Jen Strebs, Kalamazoo County Commissioner said.
Strebs told News Channel 3 that the average American family doesn't have enough money to comfortably afford childcare.
The federal recommendation - families should be spending no more than 7% of their income on childcare costs, which would put a family with two kids at $400,000 for childcare to be considered affordable.
"There is nearly nobody making that level of income in the community," Strebs said. "That's a systemic failure that needs a systemwide investment."
FULL STORY: https://wwmt.com/news/local/kalamazoo-county-voters-8-year-childcare-millage-affordability-shortage-facilities-wages-august-primary-election-ballot
______________...
- Title
- U.S. Air Force B-52 Stratofortress crashes after takeoff in California
- Runtime
- 1:11
- Date posted
- 14 days ago
- Description
- A U.S. Air Force B-52 Stratofortress crashed after taking off from Edwards Air Force Base in Kern County, California, on Monday, according to officials.
The B-52 went down on the Edwards airfield around 11:20 a.m., according to a statement made by the base that was posted on X.
"A United States Air Force B-52 Stratofortress crashed shortly after takeoff on the Edwards airfield at 11:20 a.m," the X post reads.
"Emergency crews immediately responded to the scene, and the situation is ongoing. More information will be provided as it becomes available."
It is not yet clear whether anyone has been injured in the crash.
Videos of the crash site showed black smoke rising from an area near the airfield. All inbound aircraft were diverted, according to the base.
STORY: https://wwmt.com/news/nation-world/us-air-force-b-52-stratofortress-crashes-after-takeoff-on-edwards-air-force-base-bomber-kent-county-california-plane-crash...
- Title
- U.S. Air Force B-52 Stratofortress crashes after takeoff on Edwards Air Force Base
- Runtime
- 18:26
- Date posted
- 14 days ago
- Description
- A U.S. Air Force B-52 Stratofortress crashed after taking off from Edwards Air Force Base in Kern County, California, on Monday, according to officials.
The B-52 went down on the Edwards airfield around 11:20 a.m., according to a statement made by the base that was posted on X.
"A United States Air Force B-52 Stratofortress crashed shortly after takeoff on the Edwards airfield at 11:20 a.m," the X post reads.
"Emergency crews immediately responded to the scene, and the situation is ongoing. More information will be provided as it becomes available."
It is not yet clear whether anyone has been injured in the crash.
Videos of the crash site showed black smoke rising from an area near the airfield. All inbound aircraft were diverted, according to the base.
STORY: https://wwmt.com/news/nation-world/us-air-force-b-52-stratofortress-crashes-after-takeoff-on-edwards-air-force-base-bomber-kent-county-california-plane-crash...
- Title
- Welcome, Mr. President, to the G7 Summit
- Runtime
- 1:07
- Date posted
- 14 days ago
- Description
- President Donald Trump arrived in Europe on Monday for the annual G7 summit, where he will meet with fellow world leaders after announcing an agreement that he says will bring an end to the U.S. war with Iran.
Trump met with French President Emmanuel Macron in Évian-les-Bains, France, despite recently criticizing Macron and other allies for not doing enough to support efforts related to the conflict and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz.
Macron, this year's summit host, invited the leaders of three countries outside the G7 — Egypt, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates — to participate in a session on the Middle East on Tuesday, when Iran is expected to be a central focus.
"The aim will be to assess the implications of this agreement, support for Lebanon, the long-term reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and, of course, reaching a deal on Iran's nuclear and ballistic (missile) programs," Macron said in a video posted on social media Sunday eve...
- Title
- 'It's a good table': Inside the G7 Summit dinner in France
- Runtime
- 1:02
- Date posted
- 14 days ago
- Description
- President Donald Trump arrived in Europe on Monday for the annual G7 summit, where he will meet with fellow world leaders after announcing an agreement that he says will bring an end to the U.S. war with Iran.
Trump met with French President Emmanuel Macron in Évian-les-Bains, France, despite recently criticizing Macron and other allies for not doing enough to support efforts related to the conflict and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz.
Macron, this year's summit host, invited the leaders of three countries outside the G7 — Egypt, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates — to participate in a session on the Middle East on Tuesday, when Iran is expected to be a central focus.
"The aim will be to assess the implications of this agreement, support for Lebanon, the long-term reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and, of course, reaching a deal on Iran's nuclear and ballistic (missile) programs," Macron said in a video posted on social media Sunday eve...
- Title
- FULL PRESSER: Trump meets with Emmanuel Macron ahead of G7 Summit, talks Iran Deal
- Runtime
- 11:53
- Date posted
- 14 days ago
- Description
- Meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron at the start of the Group of Seven summit, President Donald Trump touted his agreement aimed at ending the U.S. war with Iran.
"I think a lot of great things are going to happen in the Middle East right now, and very importantly the oil (price) is plummeting down and the stock market is shooting up like a rocket today," Trump said. He added, "The Iran deal that we made is going to bring a lot of success to the world."
Macron congratulated Trump on the agreement, calling it "a very important matter for peace of the whole world."
The cordial exchange contrasted with tensions that emerged after Trump moved ahead with military action against Iran without consulting key European allies, including Macron, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni.
STORY: https://wwmt.com/news/nation-world/president-donald-trump-heads-to-g7-fr...
- Title
- Trump has good talks with Putin, Zelenskyy: 'Maybe we can do something here'
- Runtime
- 0:31
- Date posted
- 14 days ago
- Description
- Beyond the Middle East, the Russia-Ukraine war is also expected to feature prominently at the summit. Macron invited Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to join a working session with G7 leaders on Tuesday focused on the conflict.
Zelenskyy said Sunday he had "a very good conversation" with Trump about the war, including its origins, diplomatic opportunities and the positions of international partners.
"President Trump's remarks were absolutely spot-on, particularly regarding our Crimea: it was Russia's seizure of Crimea that started it all, and if there had been strong leadership back then, this entire war simply wouldn't have happened," he wrote on X.
Trump also held a separate phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Russian presidential aide Yuri Ushakov told reporters afterward that Trump emphasized the need to end hostilities in Ukraine and expressed his willingness to encourage European allies and Kyiv toward that goal, includi...
- Title
- 'Very important step toward peace': French President Macron commends Trump for Iran Deal
- Runtime
- 1:55
- Date posted
- 14 days ago
- Description
- Meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron at the start of the Group of Seven summit, President Donald Trump touted his agreement aimed at ending the U.S. war with Iran.
"I think a lot of great things are going to happen in the Middle East right now, and very importantly the oil (price) is plummeting down and the stock market is shooting up like a rocket today," Trump said. He added, "The Iran deal that we made is going to bring a lot of success to the world."
Macron congratulated Trump on the agreement, calling it "a very important matter for peace of the whole world."
The cordial exchange contrasted with tensions that emerged after Trump moved ahead with military action against Iran without consulting key European allies, including Macron, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni.
STORY: https://wwmt.com/news/nation-world/president-donald-trump-heads-to-g7-fr...
- Title
- TRUMP ON OIL: Iran Deal is 'going to bring a lot of success to the world'
- Runtime
- 2:59
- Date posted
- 14 days ago
- Description
- Meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron at the start of the Group of Seven summit, President Donald Trump touted his agreement aimed at ending the U.S. war with Iran.
"I think a lot of great things are going to happen in the Middle East right now, and very importantly the oil (price) is plummeting down and the stock market is shooting up like a rocket today," Trump said. He added, "The Iran deal that we made is going to bring a lot of success to the world."
Macron congratulated Trump on the agreement, calling it "a very important matter for peace of the whole world."
The cordial exchange contrasted with tensions that emerged after Trump moved ahead with military action against Iran without consulting key European allies, including Macron, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni.
STORY: https://wwmt.com/news/nation-world/president-donald-trump-heads-to-g7-fr...
- Title
- THE PRESIDENT HAS LANDED: Trump arrives in Evian for G7 Summit
- Runtime
- 2:28
- Date posted
- 14 days ago
- Description
- President Donald Trump arrived in Europe on Monday for the annual G7 summit, where he will meet with fellow world leaders after announcing an agreement that he says will bring an end to the U.S. war with Iran.
Trump is expected to meet with French President Emmanuel Macron in Évian-les-Bains, France, despite recently criticizing Macron and other allies for not doing enough to support efforts related to the conflict and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz.
Macron, this year's summit host, invited the leaders of three countries outside the G7 — Egypt, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates — to participate in a session on the Middle East on Tuesday, when Iran is expected to be a central focus.
"The aim will be to assess the implications of this agreement, support for Lebanon, the long-term reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and, of course, reaching a deal on Iran's nuclear and ballistic (missile) programs," Macron said in a video posted on social ...
- Title
- Trump arrives in Geneva for G7 Summit with Iran Deal
- Runtime
- 1:50
- Date posted
- 14 days ago
- Description
- President Donald Trump arrived in Europe on Monday for the annual G7 summit, where he will meet with fellow world leaders after announcing an agreement that he says will bring an end to the U.S. war with Iran.
Trump is expected to meet with French President Emmanuel Macron in Évian-les-Bains, France, despite recently criticizing Macron and other allies for not doing enough to support efforts related to the conflict and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz.
Macron, this year's summit host, invited the leaders of three countries outside the G7 — Egypt, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates — to participate in a session on the Middle East on Tuesday, when Iran is expected to be a central focus.
"The aim will be to assess the implications of this agreement, support for Lebanon, the long-term reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and, of course, reaching a deal on Iran's nuclear and ballistic (missile) programs," Macron said in a video posted on social ...
- Title
- Mendon wins state softball title; Marcellus, K-Christian fall in baseball finals
- Runtime
- 4:31
- Date posted
- 14 days ago
- Description
- The Green Machine have done it again.
The Mendon softball program capped off an incredible 4-year postseason run with a victory over Brown City in Saturday's D-4 state softball final at Michigan State.
The Hornets, who ended Unionville-Sebewaing's 5-year championship run in last years title game, beat the Green Devils 6-2 to claim their 2nd straight state title.
Jadyn Samson, Rowan Allen and Taya Bingaman each had two hits for Mendon. Allen went the distance in the circle, allowing just 3 hits and striking out 14.
The K-Christian baseball team was shutout by Traverse City St. Francis in today's D-4 state championship game.
The Comets, who were making their first championship game appearance in program history, managed just 3 hits in their 9-0 loss to the Gladiators.
The Marcellus Wildcats, who were also making their first ever baseball title game appearance, were held to just one hit in their 10-0 loss to Mou...
- Title
- Mayhem as New York City celebrates the Knicks’ first championship in 53 years. Your Morning Minute
- Runtime
- 1:19
- Date posted
- 14 days ago
- Description
- Good Morning Minute🐈
It was bedlam on Broadway as the New York Knicks won their first NBA championship in 53 years on Saturday night, with exuberant celebrations marred by mayhem and violence, including a shooting in Times Square.
Outside Madison Square Garden, a crowd watching on a big screen roared as the Knicks rallied from a 16-point deficit to beat the Spurs in San Antonio in Game 5 of the NBA Finals.
Soon after, tens of thousands of people filled the streets and the rowdiest among them were clashing with police, smashing windshields, scaling scaffolding, light poles and a statue, climbing into and atop school buses in Times Square and trying to hitch a ride on a moving fire truck.
Around 2 a.m., a 17-year-old was shot near 42nd Street and Broadway, police said. Bystander video captured the sound of at least seven shots and showed people crouching and running for cover. Police took the victim to the hospital because an ambulan...
- Title
- Amazing America 250 | Liberty Tree dedicated to the Daughters of the American Revolution in Michigan
- Runtime
- 1:50
- Date posted
- 14 days ago
- Description
- A new plaque honoring a Liberty Tree was dedicated Sunday in Bronson Park as part of ongoing efforts to commemorate the nation’s upcoming 250th anniversary.
Members of the Lucinda Hinsdale Stone Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution gathered for the ceremony, unveiling the marker alongside a Liberty Tree planted in 2024.
The dedication is part of America 250, a nationwide initiative recognizing the 250th anniversary of the United States.
Organizers said Liberty Trees became symbols of freedom and resistance during the American Revolution and continue to serve as reminders of the nation’s founding principles.
“We are honoring the patriots of 250 years ago,” said Judy VanPoperin, Michigan America 250 co-chair for the Daughters of the American Revolution. “There was a Liberty Tree planted here in 2024, and today we dedicated the plaque to go with the Liberty Tree.”
VanPoperin said the project is int...
- Title
- LIVE: Plane taking passengers up for skydiving crashes in Missouri killing 12, authorities say
- Runtime
- 16:31
- Date posted
- 14 days ago
- Description
- A plane carrying passengers for skydiving crashed in Missouri on Sunday, killing all 12 people aboard, according to authorities. In a statement, the Missouri State Highway Patrol said that the crash occurred near the Butler Memorial Airport.
Missouri Highway Patrol Sgt. Justin Ewing said the plane was taking people up to skydive. Emergency responders got the call that the plane was down and engulfed in fire around 11:30 a.m. Sunday morning, he said.
Ewing called the scene “brutal.”
Teams from the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) were headed to the crash site Sunday afternoon to investigate, according to the Missouri State Patrol.
The private plane was operated by Skydive Kansas City, according to Dennis Jacobs, the acting airport manager and Bates County Emergency Management Agency director.
The Pacific Aerospace 750XL that crashed is a single-engine turboprop plane...
- Title
- Data centers in Michigan—how the AG is stepping in. | Deep Dive with Remington Hernandez (Ep. 2)
- Runtime
- 0:48
- Date posted
- 15 days ago
- Description
- Every week, we're going beyond the headlines to explore the issues shaping Michigan, and hear directly from the people at the heart of the issues.
In episode two of Deep Dive, Remington Hernandez sits down with Michigan's Attorney General Dana Nessel to talk about the ever-evolving and ever-contentious debate on data centers.
Nessel has long been wary of data centers and how they could drive utility bills up.
Her office is pushing for contested cases at the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC), so advocates can review and challenge specifics.
She tried doing so for the Open AI data center project in Washtenaw County's Saline Township, but was denied by the MPSC.
"What does it say to everyone in this state," Nessel asked. "I guess that the Michigan Public Service Commission is more invested in the utilities making a profit than they are in protecting rate payers."
In Wayne County's Van Buren Township, h...
- Title
- Data centers in Michigan—how the AG is stepping in. | Deep Dive with Remington Hernandez (Ep. 2)
- Runtime
- 17:26
- Date posted
- 15 days ago
- Description
- Every week, we're going beyond the headlines to explore the issues shaping Michigan, and hear directly from the people at the heart of the issues.
In episode two of Deep Dive, Remington Hernandez sits down with Michigan's Attorney General Dana Nessel to talk about the ever-evolving and ever-contentious debate on data centers.
Nessel has long been wary of data centers and how they could drive utility bills up.
Her office is pushing for contested cases at the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC), so advocates can review and challenge specifics.
She tried doing so for the Open AI data center project in Washtenaw County's Saline Township, but was denied by the MPSC.
"What does it say to everyone in this state," Nessel asked. "I guess that the Michigan Public Service Commission is more invested in the utilities making a profit than they are in protecting rate payers."
In Wayne County's Van Buren Township, h...
- Title
- AMAZING AMERICA 250: History behind Michigan's South Shore Line
- Runtime
- 2:15
- Date posted
- 15 days ago
- Description
- As America approaches celebrating 250 years of independence, one historic line in our region is still moving forward.
The South Shore Line reflects more than a century of American transportation history.
The South Shore Line is the last interurban railroad in the United States, often called the "little train that could," carrying both passengers and history between Chicago and Northwest Indiana.
But the train didn't always carry the same function, and it wasn't originally called the South Shore Line.
Built in 1901, this rail was first known as the Chicago and Indiana Airline Railway, as its main function was for commuters to travel back and forth from Michigan City to South Bend.
Officially up and running in 1908.
But the train today primarily carries tourists back and forth from Northwest Indiana to Chicago.
"We think of ourselves as this backbone of Northwest Indiana in the South Bend area. Pro...
- Title
- Cannabis facility in Michigan offered for data center redevelopment
- Runtime
- 0:58
- Date posted
- 15 days ago
- Description
- A local industrial cannabis facility in Kalamazoo is being offered for redevelopment.
Harbor Farmz, built in 2020, has launched its offering of the Full Circle Drive facility as a potential repurposing site for data center users.
Nothing is imminent, but founder and CEO Michael Ward expects to see traction soon because of the demand for data center space in the state.
Harbor Farmz has full zoning approval from the City of Kalamazoo.
Ward said the city should see a positive economic impact from a potential redevelopment with the facility possibly switching from an agriculture-based company to a technology-based company.
"It would create jobs," he said. "It would create a high level positions for people in that workforce. And the building is completely suited for what that is."
Ward called the cannabis industry 'oversupplied.'
The industry is not as lucrative as it was roughly half a decade ago, an...
- Title
- LIVE weather update
- Runtime
- 20:34
- Date posted
- 16 days ago
- Description
- Storms possible for part of the weekend, but overall, good looking Saturday and Sunday. Get caught up LIVE right here!
- Title
- LIVE: Lunchtime Live in Kalamazoo
- Runtime
- 19:35
- Date posted
- 17 days ago
- Description
- Watch as Lunchtime Live kicks off in Bronson Park in Kalamazoo.
- Title
- An update on severe storms that hit Sturgis, Michigan
- Runtime
- 1:16
- Date posted
- 17 days ago
- Description
- Teanna Barnes gives us an update on the aftermath of the storms in Sturgis, which was hit particularly hard:
- Title
- High heat, humidity affecting certain workers across Michigan
- Runtime
- 1:09
- Date posted
- 17 days ago
- Description
- Temperatures are climbing across West Michigan this week, with humidity pushing the “feels like” temperature close to 100 degrees in some areas.
While many people are staying indoors to avoid the heat, some workers do not have that option.
Whether it is inside a welding shop or on top of a roof, the job does not always stop because of high temperatures.
At Elite Welding and Fabrication LLC, fabricator Nick Price says working in the heat can become dangerous without proper precautions.
_______________
Stay up to date with our social media:
WWMT on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wwmtnews
WWMT on Twitter: https://twitter.com/wwmtnews
Subscribe to WWMT on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCAYwomlsmN0DsPeeumEKFXg/?sub_confirmation=1
WWMT Daily News Digest: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL-oNVYSgKM8IBYJOY5M-p37vKcILekLNz
For more information, visit https://www.wwmt.c...
- Title
- Amber Alert legislation inspired by six-year-old's death passes in Michigan Senate
- Runtime
- 1:50
- Date posted
- 17 days ago
- Description
- The Michigan Senate passed senate bills 891 and 892 Wednesday, supporting legislation that aims to refine the current Michigan Amber Alert system.
Brandi Morey-Pols blames gaps in Michigan's current Amber Alert system for the reason her 6-year-old son Rowan is no longer here.
Morey-Pols turned her pain into purpose through 'the Rowan Act' which aims for Amber Alerts to be issued more quickly.
Morey-Pols said its been a fight for change that began two years ago after six-year-old Rowan was killed.
Rowan was abducted by his father, according to Morey-Pols, who tried to get Michigan State Police (MSP) to issue an Amber Alert.
However, Morey-Pols found out that her son's case didn't meet the proper criteria for MSP to issue an alert.
_______________
Stay up to date with our social media:
WWMT on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wwmtnews
WWMT on Twitter: https://twitter.com/wwmtnews
Subsc...
- Title
- Morning Minute - Severe storms in West Michigan, a key road reopens after 3 years
- Runtime
- 1:03
- Date posted
- 17 days ago
- Description
- Good Morning Minute! It's Friday!
Our thoughts are with those affected by severe storms that hit West Michigan last night.
An text alert system may help you with power outages 🔌
And, a three-year road project ended, and a busy road in Kalamazoo has reopened 🚗
Julie Williams tells us more!
Sponsored by @SamBernsteinLawFirm
- Title
- LIVE STORM TRACKING | Tornado and Severe Storm Watches and Warnings in West Michigan
- Runtime
- 3:31:57
- Date posted
- 18 days ago
- Description
- THURSDAY NIGHT: Severe storms are moving through West Michigan, capable of damaging wind gusts, tornadoes and heavy rain. Will & Keith are tracking storms LIVE.
#news #michigan #weather #westmichigan #storms #tracking #liveweather #livestream #live #localnews
_______________
Stay up to date with our social media:
WWMT on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wwmtnews
WWMT on Twitter: https://twitter.com/wwmtnews
Subscribe to WWMT on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCAYwomlsmN0DsPeeumEKFXg/?sub_confirmation=1
WWMT Daily News Digest: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL-oNVYSgKM8IBYJOY5M-p37vKcILekLNz
For more information, visit https://www.wwmt.com/
Have a news tip? Send it directly to us:
Email us: desk@wwmt.com
Call the Newsroom: 800.875.3333
WWMT is a MI based station and a CBS Television affiliate owned and operated by Sinclair Broadcast Group. Sinclair Broa...
- Title
- TIMELAPSE: Severe storm rolls into South Haven
- Runtime
- 0:31
- Date posted
- 18 days ago
- Description
- WHOA! Watch as the storm rolls in over South Haven ⛈️
SEE MORE WEATHER PHOTOS: https://wwmt.com/news/galleries/gallery-06-12-2026
#news #michigan #shorts #weather #clouds #storm #thunderstorm #severeweather #localnews #timelapse
_______________
Stay up to date with our social media:
WWMT on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wwmtnews
WWMT on Twitter: https://twitter.com/wwmtnews
Subscribe to WWMT on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCAYwomlsmN0DsPeeumEKFXg/?sub_confirmation=1
WWMT Daily News Digest: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL-oNVYSgKM8IBYJOY5M-p37vKcILekLNz
For more information, visit https://www.wwmt.com/
Have a news tip? Send it directly to us:
Email us: desk@wwmt.com
Call the Newsroom: 800.875.3333
WWMT is a MI based station and a CBS Television affiliate owned and operated by Sinclair Broadcast Group. Sinclair Broadcast Group, In...
- Title
- Trowbridge Township Dam Area to be free of PCBs in 6-8 weeks, EPA officials say
- Runtime
- 1:00
- Date posted
- 18 days ago
- Description
- The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) toured the site of a significant cleanup project in Allegan on Thursday.
EPA Regional Administrator Anne Vogel toured the cleanup at the Trowbridge Township Dam Area in Allegan, which is part of the larger Kalamazoo River Superfund Site.
The site contains soil and sediment contaminated with long-lasting polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) from industry that was in the area. PCBs were used in carbonless paper in the area, and when it was recycled, it got flushed into the Kalamazoo River, according to EPA officials.
Partners in the project are using a dredger to suck the contamination at the bottom of the river.
EPA officials estimate this stretch of the Kalamazoo River will be PCB-free in six to eight weeks. Once the area is remediated, they will take out the dam, allowing the river to flow freely.
STORY: https://wwmt.com/news/local/trowbridge-dam-area-pcbs-epa-dnr-kalamazoo-river-con...
- Title
- Michigan House Democrats propose limiting utility equity returns, political donations
- Runtime
- 2:35
- Date posted
- 18 days ago
- Description
- Across the political spectrum, Michiganders are critical of rising utility costs and the Democrats' effort hinges on criticisms of how utilities like Consumers and DTE Energy use rate payer dollars.
State House Republicans recently passed their plan to tackle the issue, now House Democrats have a proposal of their own.
One area of contention, they say, are returns on equity.
While one recent request surpassed 10%, the package of bills would institute an 8.2% cap, with excess being returned to ratepayers.
"Regulated monopolies don't face a competitive risk that would normally justify a high rate of return," Rep. Natalie Price (D-Berkley) said. "But Michigan utilities have been guaranteed those profits far and above what the risk warrants."
Under the proposal, rate payer dollars could not be used for political activities like lobbying and candidate donations.
Executive bonuses or expenditures like private jets ...
- Title
- ROUND 2: Barry County cleans up as more storms arrive in West Michigan
- Runtime
- 1:56
- Date posted
- 18 days ago
- Description
- Barry County was a particularly hard-hit area by Wednesday night's severe weather.
Several residents across the county experienced power outages, including the Thornapple-Kellogg Public Library, which was without power throughout Thursday afternoon.
Residents around the Thornapple Township area saw the brunt of the damage, with many cleaning up tree debris and branches around their homes.
One home on Thornton Street lost much of its roofing at the entrance, and neighbors said the owners won't be able to live in it for months.
Thornapple Township Fire Chief Bill Richardson said it was a busy night for his crew, responding to 17 calls in the three-hour storm event, nearly double the amount they respond to on an average day.
STORY: https://wwmt.com/news/local/barry-county-residents-clean-anticipate-severe-weather-storms-storm-damage-wind-rain-power-outage-trees-lines-fire-department-tornado
#news #michigan #weat...
- Title
- Storms topple trees, leave neighbors without power amid 90-degree day in West Michigan
- Runtime
- 2:51
- Date posted
- 18 days ago
- Description
- Powerful storms that swept through Southwest Michigan Wednesday blew down trees and tree limbs, causing widespread power outages for thousands.
Lenore Yaeger lives on Upland Drive in eastern Kalamazoo. She was on a walk with her kids when she noticed the sky getting dark.
"Then just like all of a sudden we had just walked inside and the wind picked up and we saw things flying," Yaeger said.
Yaeger hurried to get her kids into the basement, and said they stayed there until things calmed down.
When they went outside, the family found a large limb from a tree next to their home had fallen on top of a power line.
Yaeger feels lucky the tree didn't fall on top of the house.
"We had friends in the last big storm that lost their entire house to a tree, so you know it was definitely top of mind," she said.
MORE: https://wwmt.com/news/local/severe-weather-west-michigan-kalamazoo-county-storms-trees-down-p...
- Title
- LIVE: Hazmat crews responding to Pentagon for hazardous materials incident
- Runtime
- 2:00:15
- Date posted
- 18 days ago
- Description
- A "hazardous materials incident" at the Pentagon is prompting Hazmat crew response on Thursday.
According to Arlington Fire & EMS, multiple units, including their Hazardous Materials Team, are currently working the incident alongside the Pentagon Force Protection Agency's Hazmat team.
Officials haven't yet clarified what happened to require the Hazmat response.
_______________
Stay up to date with our social media:
WWMT on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wwmtnews
WWMT on Twitter: https://twitter.com/wwmtnews
Subscribe to WWMT on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCAYwomlsmN0DsPeeumEKFXg/?sub_confirmation=1
WWMT Daily News Digest: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL-oNVYSgKM8IBYJOY5M-p37vKcILekLNz
For more information, visit https://www.wwmt.com/
Have a news tip? Send it directly to us:
Email us: desk@wwmt.com
Call the Newsroom: 800.875.3333
- Title
- LIVE: Damage following severe storms in West Michigan
- Runtime
- 13:09
- Date posted
- 18 days ago
- Description
- Thousands of West Michiganders are waking up without power on Thursday after fast paced storms up to 50 miles per hour swept through on Wednesday night.
With another round of severe weather forecast for Thursday evening, crews will be staged throughout the area in preparation, Consumers Energy officials said.
News Channel 3 is live with the latest on storm damage in the area.
_______________
Stay up to date with our social media:
WWMT on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wwmtnews
WWMT on Twitter: https://twitter.com/wwmtnews
Subscribe to WWMT on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCAYwomlsmN0DsPeeumEKFXg/?sub_confirmation=1
WWMT Daily News Digest: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL-oNVYSgKM8IBYJOY5M-p37vKcILekLNz
For more information, visit https://www.wwmt.com/
Have a news tip? Send it directly to us:
Email us: desk@wwmt.com
Call the Newsroom: 800.875...
- Title
- Amber Alert legislation inspired by six-year-old's death passes in Michigan Senate
- Runtime
- 3:00
- Date posted
- 18 days ago
- Description
- The Michigan Senate passed senate bills 891 and 892 Wednesday, supporting legislation that aims to refine the current Michigan Amber Alert system.
Brandi Morey-Pols blames gaps in Michigan's current Amber Alert system for the reason her six-year-old son Rowan is no longer here.
"It shouldn't take lives to change legislation," Morey-Pols said.
Morey-Pols turned her pain into purpose through 'the Rowan Act' which aims for Amber Alerts to be issued more quickly.
FULL STORY: https://wwmt.com/news/local/the-rowan-act-senate-passes-bills-six-year-olds-death-expedite-amber-alerts-brandi-morey-pols-crime
_______________
Stay up to date with our social media:
WWMT on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wwmtnews
WWMT on Twitter: https://twitter.com/wwmtnews
Subscribe to WWMT on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCAYwomlsmN0DsPeeumEKFXg/?sub_confirmation=1
WWMT Daily News Digest: https://w...
- Title
- EXPLORING MICHIGAN: The Saginaw Art Museum and Gardens
- Runtime
- 2:48
- Date posted
- 18 days ago
- Description
- As you are making or finalizing your summer plans, one spot you should absolutely add is a piece of history that's been around for almost 80 years.
Nestled in one of Michigan's largest cities is The Saginaw Art Museum and Gardens.
Even in our short time at the museum and gardens, we saw so many amazing pieces that will bring a sense of wonder, joy and whimsy as you walk through the halls and rooms, and if being out in nature is your thing, the garden is alive and welcoming.
The same day that we visited, they had just finished a Tai Chi course in the gardens.
On rainy days that bring you back inside, there is a special exhibit in place until September from an artist you may know: Andy Warhol.
If you now just absolutely have to see more and want to visit, they are open Wednesdays through Saturdays in the afternoon and early evenings.
But if you can't make it during those hours, they have plenty of special event...
- Title
- Severe wind, rain takes down trees, powerlines; thousands without power, roads closed
- Runtime
- 0:49
- Date posted
- 18 days ago
- Description
- Thousands of West Michiganders are waking up without power on Thursday after fast paced storms up to 50 miles per hour swept through on Wednesday night.
Consumers Energy officials said they restored power to over 50,000 customers overnight after severe weather took down trees and power lines on Wednesday night, causing outages for thousands in the region.
With another round of severe weather forecast for Thursday evening, crews will be staged throughout the area in preparation, officials said.
Customers are encouraged to use caution on the roads and be aware of any downed power lines, flooding and broken tree limbs.
Several roads throughout Kalamazoo are closed on Thursday morning due to downed trees and powerlines, according to Kalamazoo Department of Public Safety officers.
Crews are working to clear the roads and ensure safe travel, officers said.
Power outages are also causing traffic signals to be out of...
- Title
- Michigan Senate bills would make insurers cover insulin, EpiPens, inhalers without co-pay
- Runtime
- 2:21
- Date posted
- 18 days ago
- Description
- Medications can be the difference between living or dying for people with diabetes, asthma, or severe allergies, and some state lawmakers feel those life-saving drugs are getting too expensive.
Many states have moved to cap co-pays for drugs like insulin, epinephrin and albuterol. Michigan is not one of them, but one proposal wants to go even further.
"We are trying everything we can to, address prescription drug affordability," State Sen. Darrin Camilleri (D-Trenton) said.
FULL STORY: https://wwmt.com/news/state/michigan-insurance-epipens-epipen-insulin-legislation-medication-allergies-access-albuterol-cost-lansing-bills-politics-health
_______________
Stay up to date with our social media:
WWMT on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wwmtnews
WWMT on Twitter: https://twitter.com/wwmtnews
Subscribe to WWMT on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCAYwomlsmN0DsPeeumEKFXg/?sub_confirmation=1
WWMT ...
- Title
- Storms push through West Michigan causing damage, power outages. Your Morning Minute
- Runtime
- 1:08
- Date posted
- 18 days ago
- Description
- Good Morning Minute
Thousands are without power across West Michigan as severe weather rolls through the region Wednesday night.
More than 103,500 Consumers Energy customers are without power as of 10 p.m., according to the energy company's outage map.
Most of the region was under a severe thunderstorm watch until about 11 p.m.
Your Morning Minute with Kirk Mason
@SamBernsteinLawFirm
_______________
Stay up to date with our social media:
WWMT on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wwmtnews
WWMT on Twitter: https://twitter.com/wwmtnews
Subscribe to WWMT on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCAYwomlsmN0DsPeeumEKFXg/?sub_confirmation=1
WWMT Daily News Digest: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL-oNVYSgKM8IBYJOY5M-p37vKcILekLNz
For more information, visit https://www.wwmt.com/
Have a news tip? Send it directly to us:
Email u...
- Title
- Michigan storm interrupts youth softball game, players run for cover
- Runtime
- 0:45
- Date posted
- 19 days ago
- Description
- Two youth softball teams at Eastwood Little League in Comstock were in the middle of saying "good game" when they were interrupted by Mother Nature. A fast-moving, high-wind storm cut the sportsmanship short, leaving the girls and coaches running for cover.
More storm footage: https://bit.ly/4uqFJok
_______________
Stay up to date with our social media:
WWMT on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wwmtnews
WWMT on Twitter: https://twitter.com/wwmtnews
Subscribe to WWMT on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCAYwomlsmN0DsPeeumEKFXg/?sub_confirmation=1
WWMT Daily News Digest: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL-oNVYSgKM8IBYJOY5M-p37vKcILekLNz
For more information, visit https://www.wwmt.com/
Have a news tip? Send it directly to us:
Email us: desk@wwmt.com
Call the Newsroom: 800.875.3333
WWMT is a MI based station and a CBS Television affiliate owned and oper...
- Title
- WATCH: Severe storm pushes through Michigan
- Runtime
- 0:33
- Date posted
- 19 days ago
- Description
- Shelly Mack-Slavings shot this great video that show's today's storm making its way through Decatur.
More photos: https://bit.ly/4uqFJok
_______________
Stay up to date with our social media:
WWMT on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wwmtnews
WWMT on Twitter: https://twitter.com/wwmtnews
Subscribe to WWMT on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCAYwomlsmN0DsPeeumEKFXg/?sub_confirmation=1
WWMT Daily News Digest: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL-oNVYSgKM8IBYJOY5M-p37vKcILekLNz
For more information, visit https://www.wwmt.com/
Have a news tip? Send it directly to us:
Email us: desk@wwmt.com
Call the Newsroom: 800.875.3333
WWMT is a MI based station and a CBS Television affiliate owned and operated by Sinclair Broadcast Group. Sinclair Broadcast Group, Inc. is one of the largest and most diversified television broadcasting companies in the country today....
- Title
- Tracking severe thunderstorms Wednesday evening, 6/10/26
- Runtime
- 2:05:36
- Date posted
- 19 days ago
- Description
- A line of severe storms is pushing into West Michigan, with numerous warnings in effect. Meteorologist Will Haenni is tracking the latest.
- Title
- Mental health providers warn billing changes could disrupt care for hundreds in Michigan
- Runtime
- 2:52
- Date posted
- 19 days ago
- Description
- Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan is making changes to its “incident-to” billing policy, leading to growing concern among mental health care workers about patients being able to access care.
Jedd LaPonsie, founder and director of Kalamazoo Child and Family Counseling, has been practicing for about 15 years.
The industry is already struggling to keep up with the demand for mental health treatment and LaPonsie fears insurance policy changes will only make it worse.
FULL STORY: https://wwmt.com/news/local/mental-health-care-treatment-kalamazoo-michigan-cost-blue-cross-blue-shield-billing-changes-therapists-counselors-payment-hospital
_______________
Stay up to date with our social media:
WWMT on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wwmtnews
WWMT on Twitter: https://twitter.com/wwmtnews
Subscribe to WWMT on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCAYwomlsmN0DsPeeumEKFXg/?sub_confirmation=1
WWMT Da...
- Title
- Humidity drives West Michigan heat index near 100 as workers urge precautions
- Runtime
- 2:14
- Date posted
- 19 days ago
- Description
- Temperatures are climbing across West Michigan this week, with humidity pushing the “feels like” temperature close to 100 degrees in some areas.
While many people are staying indoors to avoid the heat, some workers do not have that option.
Whether it is inside a welding shop or on top of a roof, the job does not always stop because of high temperatures.
At Elite Welding and Fabrication LLC, fabricator Nick Price says working in the heat can become dangerous without proper precautions.
FULL STORY: https://wwmt.com/news/local/working-heat-extreme-conditions-why-how-michigan-workers-humidity-index-dangerous-safety-welding-kalamazoo-roofing-wwmt
_______________
Stay up to date with our social media:
WWMT on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wwmtnews
WWMT on Twitter: https://twitter.com/wwmtnews
Subscribe to WWMT on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCAYwomlsmN0DsPeeumEKFXg/?sub_confirmation...
- Title
- This cannabis facility could be repurposed into an AI data center
- Runtime
- 2:04
- Date posted
- 19 days ago
- Description
- A local industrial cannabis facility in Kalamazoo is being offered for redevelopment.
Harbor Farmz, built in 2020, has launched its offering of the Full Circle Drive facility as a potential repurposing site for data center users.
Nothing is imminent, but founder and CEO Michael Ward expects to see traction soon because of the demand for data center space in the state.
FULL STORY: https://wwmt.com/news/local/harbor-farmz-industrial-kalamazoo-location-ai-data-center-redevelopment-cannabis-industry-economic-environmental-impact-employees-resources-artificial-intelligence-water-electricity
_______________
Stay up to date with our social media:
WWMT on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wwmtnews
WWMT on Twitter: https://twitter.com/wwmtnews
Subscribe to WWMT on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCAYwomlsmN0DsPeeumEKFXg/?sub_confirmation=1
WWMT Daily News Digest: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?...
- Title
- Trump signs $70 billion immigration bill, vows more resources for ICE and Border Patrol
- Runtime
- 49:54
- Date posted
- 19 days ago
- Description
- President Donald Trump signed the nearly $70 billion immigration enforcement bill on Wednesday after the House narrowly approved the measure, providing funding for ICE and Border Patrol operations through the remainder of Trump's term.
Speaking before signing the bill, Trump said the funding would ensure ICE and Border Patrol have the resources needed to "protect our borders" and remove "criminal aliens" from the country.
"The Secure America Act provides $38 billion to ICE, $26 billion to Border Patrol, to ensure these critical law enforcement agencies have the necessary resources to do their jobs, protecting our borders and getting criminal aliens out of the country," Trump said.
Trump also accused Democrats of trying to block Department of Homeland Security funding and said the legislation would help continue efforts to combat crime, drug trafficking and child exploitation while expanding immigration enforcement nationwide.
"Congres...

