Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 20th of March.
Good morning, Portage.
🚨 Crime
Portage Public Safety said a man injured himself during a foot chase with officers and a K-9 today when he fell on the knife he was carrying, and he is now at a local hospital.
🎓 Education
Parents in Portage and across West Michigan are enrolling their four-year-olds in free preschool through Governor Whitmer's Free Pre-K for All initiative, which began in 2023 to cut up to $10,000 in child care costs and boost kindergarten readiness.
Lindsay French from Portage Public Schools said classrooms are filling up fast ahead of the Sept. 1 deadline — the program now accepts children from families earning up to 400% of the federal poverty level.
🏛️ Government
MSHDA said it has not added names to the federal rental assistance waitlist because the program — paused since July 2024 — remains on hold pending a federal budget.
More than 85,000 people are waiting for aid, including about 5,000 who are homeless.
On March 19th, about 150 people marched to U.S. Rep. Bill Huizenga's office to demand he address local environmental concerns.
Organizers included two Kalamazoo students plus conservation supporters from the Michigan League of Conservation Voters who called for a stronger policy stance.
Residents in Congressman Bill Huizenga’s 4th District are frustrated by his office’s new phone system that sends calls to a voice menu instead of providing direct assistance at offices in Holland, Portage, and Washington DC.
The office said the change was made to boost efficiency and protect staff after threats against them were reported.
🎉 Portage Events
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Open House at Austin Lake
12:30-2:30 p.m. — 3124 E Shore Drive — $524,900 — Explore this waterfront home with fresh interiors and a perfect spot for summer fun.
On-Site Tour of Brookdale Portage Assisted Living
Explore the Brookdale Portage Assisted Living community, known for its exceptional care and engaging activities for seniors.
Portage Free Tree Giveaway
10 AM – 1 PM — Ramona Park — Free trees for residents — Help restore Portage’s natural landscape post-tornado with a free tree giveaway event.
🏠 Portage Real Estate
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💼 Portage Job Board
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📣 Portage Announcements
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