We might not agree on everything as Americans, especially in these current times. But one thing I believe is worth everyone’s admiration is that our (relatively) young country is about to reach the milestone of a quarter of a millennium.

Michigan is going all out for America’s 250th with Revolutionary War reenactments, historic readings of the Declaration of Independence, and fireworks. The ‘Gander’s Chaunie Brusie has details.

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Michigan House Democrats pitch transparency, community benefit requirements for data centers (Michigan Advance): Michigan lawmakers are trying to answer a question more communities are asking: What happens when a data center wants to move in next door? New House bills would add rules around energy costs, water use, noise, labor, transparency, and cleanup plans.

Everything to know about voting in Michigan’s primaries (Votebeat Michigan): Election season is here, Michigan. Ballots start going out this week for the Aug. 4 primary, and voters have options: mail ballots, early in-person voting, or Election Day voting. Here’s how to check your registration, polling place, and deadlines.

Michigan agencies seize 17,000 pounds of illegal fireworks and explosives in multi-agency bust (ClickOnDetroit): A multi-agency bust in Metro Detroit uncovered more than 17,000 pounds of illegal fireworks and explosives, including professional-grade materials allegedly mislabeled as consumer fireworks. Officials warned the items require specialized training, licensing, storage, and handling.

There are plenty of ways to celebrate America’s 250th birthday in Michigan. (Stephanie McCabe/Unsplash)

By Chaunie Brusie

The Fourth of July holiday this year is slated to be one of the biggest yet, as it is also the 250th anniversary of the United States. Many states, cities, and local organizations are planning special celebrations to mark the patriotic occasion, and Michigan is no exception.

There will be fireworks, of course, but across the state, you can also find some extra-special events and activities to enjoy, such as visiting the Wish Wall for America’s future, pie eating in the park, and mechanical bull riding. You can visit the official America250MI to find all of the resources, events, and information about America’s 250th anniversary, or check out our list of some of the ways you can celebrate the best Fourth of July events for America’s 250th birthday party.

“Relationships are at the core of what we do as teachers. It’s integral with educating them and having knowledge, but building relationships and showing what respect looks like, I think, goes such a long way,” said Kelsey Wiley of Metro Detroit. (Courtesy of Kelsey Wiley)

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By Lucas Henkel

Michigan teachers already know about increasing rates of anxiety and depression among today’s teens—they see it firsthand in their classrooms every day.

“Our kids really do need support,” said Kelsey Wiley, a public high school English teacher in Metro Detroit, adding that she’s noticed an uptick in the number of students approaching her to talk about their mental health struggles this year.

“I’m an English teacher. I’m not a licensed social worker, I’m not a therapist, but I do what I can,” said Wiley, adding that she’s instituted weekly wellness checks in her classroom. Each week, during the first few minutes of class, Wiley’s students fill out a survey to gauge their emotional well-being, and include questions about whether they’re getting enough sleep, eating regularly, and staying hydrated.

Once the wellness checks have been collected, Wiley provides resources for students who are struggling—whether that’s offering them a listening ear after class or encouraging them to connect with a school counselor, social worker, or other trusted adult.

Wiley said her check-ins haven’t gone unnoticed. Many students, even those not in her class, come to her if they are seeking support.

“I’ve kind of turned into the teacher therapist, but I’m happy to be a safe space for my students because I think that establishing trust and building those relationships goes a long way,” said Wiley.

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Thanks for reading. This newsletter was written by Karel Vega with stories from Chaunie Brusie and Lucas Henkel. It was edited by Paula Solis.

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