Dave Vago, Author at Watershed Voice

Conversation concerning racial justice turns combative at TRCS work session

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Local

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August 4, 2020

A contentious conversation over a statement on racial justice in the midst of recent and current national events continued at a Three Rivers Community Schools (TRCS) work session Monday. Board of Education (BOE) members Dan Ryan, Anne Riopel, and Kevin Hamilton discussed the relative merits of possible wording of the statement, as well as the potential for curriculum changes that might address issues of racism. Note: This article contains strong language and references to racial slurs.

Constantine DDA to offer grant to assist with building repairs

By Dave Vago

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Local

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August 3, 2020

The Constantine Downtown Development Authority (DDA) has created new grant program to offset the costs of modifying existing older buildings. The program is intended as a recruitment tool to bring new businesses to Constantine’s historic downtown.

Three Rivers DDA asking for community input

By Dave Vago

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Local

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August 3, 2020

Downtown Three Rivers planning its next round of advancement, and is asking the public to help by providing its opinion through a short survey. Building upon its success at opening new businesses in the historic downtown district over the last few years, the Three Rivers Downtown Development Authority and Main Street Program (TRDDA) is receiving a technical assistance service from Michigan Main Street (MMS) and its consultants to begin more proactive business recruitment.

St. Joseph County COVID Death Toll Rises

By Dave Vago

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Local

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August 1, 2020

The total running death count from the global COVID-19 pandemic for St. Joseph County climbed from six to seven today, according to statistical charts on county and state websites. The Branch-Hillsdale-St. Joseph Community Health Agency (BHSJ) updates statistics daily on its website, as does the State of Michigan.

Shuman resentencing scheduled for September

By Dave Vago

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Local

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July 31, 2020

45th Circuit Court Judge Paul Stutesman held a continuation hearing Wednesday to determine whether Douglas S. Shuman can undergo resentencing on a 1997 murder conviction, following a Supreme Court decision that grants that right to certain juvenile offenders. Shuman was convicted of murdering his parents, James and Arunee Shuman, on the evening of February 12, 1997.

Allen: McDonough Planning to Return to Work

By Dave Vago

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Local

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July 30, 2020

Members of the St. Joseph County Commission’s Executive Committee discussed County Prosecutor John McDonough’s status and performance Wednesday morning. Following Wednesday's meeting Commissioner Dennis Allen told WSV that McDonough said, "he was making progress in his health and returning health-wise. In consulting with his medical doctors, he feels comfortable that they will release him to come back to work before or just after September 1, and that’s his plan at this time.”

Three Rivers Library Advertising Open Staff Positions

By Dave Vago

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Local

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July 29, 2020

Three Rivers Public Library (TRPL) Executive Director Bobbi Schoon informed library board members Tuesday evening that the library is currently advertising three open positions. The announcement follows the resignations of TRPL Children’s Librarian Laura Bultman and Service Specialist Micah Stemaly earlier this month. Both stepped down due to personal concerns, and both positions are now open along with a second Service Specialist position that has been open since March.

CMH Board Discusses CEO Contract

By Dave Vago

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Local

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July 29, 2020

At its monthly meeting Tuesday, the Community Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services of St. Joseph County (CMH) Board discussed possible revisions to its contract with its CEO, Kristine Kirsch. The changes, which Kirsch proposed to the board after reviewing them with CMH’s attorney, primarily involve putting her existing benefits into writing.

Three Rivers schools to use multi-pronged approach for reopening

By Dave Vago

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Local

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July 28, 2020

A series of rumors circulating around social media came to Watershed Voice’s attention over the weekend. Most of said rumors have to do with when and how Three Rivers Community Schools (TRCS) will use teachers or other, third-party service providers to deliver virtual, online instruction programs for students. In the interest of confirming what decisions are actually under discussion at TRCS, Watershed Voice reached out to School Board President Erin Nowak and TRCS Superintendent Ron Moag for clarification.

Fostering community service and involvement

By Dave Vago

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Local

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July 27, 2020

This past Sunday, the George Washington Carver Community Center held a fundraiser at its location on Fifth Avenue and Jefferson Street. The center, a Fourth District community anchor, promotes service activities and serves as a gathering place. Sunday’s event included a barbecue, games, and a ribbon-cutting ceremony featuring a new sign.

Dave Vago

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