Good morning, Portage.

After Tuesday night's thunderstorms left nearly 2,400 customers without power, Consumers Energy crews began restoring service in West Michigan on Wednesday morning (including areas in Kent, Ottawa, and Kalamazoo counties).

The company urged residents to stay clear of downed wires to avoid injury.

Cleanup efforts continue today in Three Rivers after an EF-2 tornado tore through the area five days ago, damaging homes, businesses, and churches.

City officials say volunteers and local crews are now focused on clearing debris and advancing recovery.

Stryker, a global medical equipment maker in Portage, confirmed yesterday a cyberattack that disrupted its computer networks — its systems are being restored while teams assess the full impact.

Zap Zone XL, Michigan's largest family entertainment center, opened in Portage in February and now offers bowling, skating, high-speed carting, laser tag, and more all under one roof.

Families can purchase individual tickets or bundled deals for all-day access to the many activities available.

Yesterday, a severe global disruption at Stryker’s network in Kalamazoo affected all employee laptops and systems; many staff were sent home while technical teams worked to restore service + updates were promised.

Western Michigan University purchased the Newell Brands Design Center at 3300 Research Way for $6M on Tuesday, March 10; it will close on the property on April 2 or 3 and plans to house its design team and support its soccer team (campus gateway improvements).

WMU board of trustees voted at a special meeting to purchase the 62,000 sqft former Newell Rubbermaid facility at BTR Park for new Physical Plant, grounds, and maintenance operations — the decision came after a proposal from Faraday Defense was considered.

Beginner Needle Felting Class

10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. — Rockhound Rock Shop — $30 per person — Create artistic scenes with vibrant yarn and meet fellow crafting enthusiasts.