HARTFORD LIBRARY EXPANDING… The Hartford Public Library proudly accepted a $50,000 Hometown Grant from T-Mobile on June 29, 2026. The grant will fund the construction of a new pavilion on the library grounds, creating an outdoor gathering space for community programs and events. Its impact will strengthen community connection and create an inclusive hub for learning, creativity and engagement. This Hartford Library project is one of 26 selected from more than 2,000 applicants

In 50 years, the future Watervliet community of 2076 will open a time capsule filled with pieces and snapshots of life as we know it in 2026.

On Thursday, June 18, 2026, Justin Heim, consultant, addressed approximately 45 local residents concerning the findings of the Fire Emergency Services Master Plan and Consolidation Study. Heim, of Heim and Associates, explained the findings of the original 161 page draft study that explores the potential for shared fire services between North Berrien Fire Rescue (Coloma, Coloma Charter Township, and Hagar Township) and the Watervliet / Watervliet Charter Township fire departm

A Hartford man’s efforts to clean up a recently purchased property in Hagar Township took an unexpected turn when he uncovered what was later identified as a World War II-era military practice bomb. Rick Hall, the property owner, had been working to clear the land, removing trees and preparing the ground with a rototiller when he struck an object buried beneath the soil. “I hit something, and I’d been hitting some rocks, metal, and pieces of wood,” he recalled. “I had a who

There will be a retirement celebration on Sunday, June 28, 2026 from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Riverside United Methodist Church, 4401 Fikes Road, Benton Harbor to honor Pastor David Haase. The celebration is open to the public. Dave Haase of Watervliet started his pastoral career in July 2007 serving at the Breedsville United Methodist Church, Breedsville, MI. A few months later he was asked to additionally take on Townline United Methodist Church in Bloomingdale, MI. Pasto

WATERVLIET HIGH SCHOOL… had the pleasure of celebrating their Students of the Month for May 2026 with a special breakfast attended by students and their families. The Student of the Month program recognizes students who consistently demonstrate the qualities that make the WHS school community stronger—academic effort, leadership, character, perseverance, citizenship, and a commitment to helping others. These students represent the very best of what it means to be a Panther.

The Watervliet Independence Day Committee is partnering with the North Berrien Historical Museum to fill a time capsule in recognition of America250. They now look to the community for involvement.

COLOMA HIGH SCHOOL… Students of the Month for May 2026: (from the left) Daisy Banda – Freshman, Victoria Perea - Sophomore, Evan Ott – Junior, and Isaac Tavolacci – Sophomore. (Contributed photo)

SAFETY FIRST… The entire 4th grade at Redwood Elementary participated in an electrical safety poster contest through MEC (Midwest Energy and Communications). A representative from MEC came to the school to announce the poster winners. The winner of the contest is Jimena Hernandez from Shaena Lorenz and Stephanie Hallgren’s room. Her poster design warning about fishing near power lines will go on a billboard for all to see this summer! Second place and honorable mentions wen

AMERICA 250... time capsule constructed by Josh Coffin for the Watervliet Independence Day Celebration. The time capsule is being held by the North Berrien Historical Museum Curator Peter Cook along with Carole Kiernan. The Watervliet Independence Day Committee with the help of the museum and the community are planning to fill this time capsule and present it to the community on Friday, July 3 with plans to place this time capsule on Saturday, July 4, in an official ceremony