Area residents took to the polls Tuesday to decide on moving forward with their local schools millages and proposals.

Big Rapids voted to renew their millage once again for the public school system, seeing a reported 1,150 votes (66%) with 585 (34%) opposed. Newaygo Public Schools passed their bond proposal by a 955 (63%) to 563 (37%) vote count. 

Grant Public Schools also found their name on the ballot not for a bond proposal, but for a school board member recall. Both incumbent board members, Rachal Gort and Richard Vance, recieved enough votes to stay on the board. Gort defeated Mindy Conley by a 1,089 (54%) to 914 (46%) tally while Vance defeated Lindsay Mahlich 1,074 (53%) to 934 (47%).

For more news, be sure to follow Big Rapids Daily News on Facebook, Instagram, and X.

The Ferris State University men's and women's tennis teams are both headed to the NCAA Division II Tournament as the two Bulldog squads received bids via a live selection announcement on Monday.

The NCAA Division II National Men's and Women's selection committees released the respective fields for the national tournaments via NCAA.com with the Bulldogs holding a live selection show watch gathering at the Ewigleben Sports Complex.

The Bulldog women's team received its 22nd all-time national tournament bid and its first since 2021. The men's team earned its ninth consecutive berth and will make its 27th all-time NCAA Tourney appearance. Both teams are guided by head coach Mark Doren.

On the women's side, Ferris State is seeded sixth in the Midwest Region and will square off against third-seeded Wayne State in first-round action at 2 p.m. on May 10 in Tiffin, Ohio.

Tiffin University was chosen to host one of the two Midwest Region brackets with the winner of the opening round matchup squaring off against either second-seeded TU or seventh-seeded Northwood at 10 a.m. on Saturday, May 11 for the right to move on to the DII Sweet Sixteen set for May 20-25 in Altamonte Springs, Fla.

Meanwhile, the Ferris State men's squad drew the second seed in the Midwest Region and will face seventh-seeded rival Grand Valley State University in first round action at 10 a.m. on Monday, May 13.

Ferris State was chosen to host one of two regional men's brackets and will take the court in the first regional matchup. On the other side of the Midwest Region bracket in Big Rapids, third-seeded Wayne State will face sixth-seeded Tiffin at 2 p.m. and the winners will then meet in the bracket final Tuesday at 10 a.m. The winner of the four-team event on the men's side will also move on to the NCAA-II round of 16 in Florida.

The Bulldogs will host NCAA Regional men's action in Big Rapids for the first time since the 2016-17 season. The matches are slated to be played outdoors at the Big Rapids High School courts if the weather permits. If the matches are moved indoors, they will take place at the Ferris State Racquet and Fitness Center.

The Bulldog men's team won this year's GLIAC Regular-Season Championship along with the league postseason tournament title. This year's regular-season title marked Ferris State’s 22nd all-time crown and the Bulldogs captured their first conference tournament championship in three years. The Bulldog men are 17-4 overall and were a perfect 6-0 in GLIAC regular-season action.

The Ferris State women's team owns a 12-9 overall record this season and has won eight of its last 10 outings overall. The Bulldogs finished as the league regular-season runner-up and reached the semifinals at the conference tournament. This year's appearance in the NCAA Tournament is only the third berth for the women's program in the past 13 years.

Chuck Thelen of Gotion Inc. is hosting his second “Chat with Chuck” virtual town hall meeting on Tuesday, May 14, at 7 p.m. to provide residents with an update on the proposed battery components facility in Green Charter Township and answer any questions. 

Residents can access the town hall meeting at this link. The meetings can include project announcements, guests from the local community, subject matter experts from Gotion Inc. and other information.

“After last month’s meeting, some people suggested that a later start time would be more convenient for greater participation, so we bumped back the time by one hour and will begin at 7 p.m.,” said Thelen, vice president of Gotion Inc. – North American Manufacturing. “It’s all about being transparent and open to the community, so we're always willing to adjust the time to fit people’s busy schedules. We had phenomenal positive feedback on our first-ever meeting, and I’m excited to answer additional questions this month.”

More than 105 people joined the virtual meeting in April, and Thelen answered questions that included what materials will be used at the plant, how the facility will encourage additional economic development in the region, and when the facility will officially open. Hundreds of more people viewed the meeting after it was later shared on social media.

"It was great to see such a strong turnout and thoughtful questions last month,” Thelen said. “Everyone is encouraged to tune into our virtual town hall meeting to learn more about the exciting developments at the plant.”

Monday, April 29

• Officers transported an individual to Grand Rapids for mental health treatment.

• An officer responded to a call regarding a larceny of alcohol at a local store.

Tuesday, April 30

• An officer assisted a woman that called to report a stolen bicycle.

• An officer responded to a civil dispute between neighbors after children had accidentally thrown a football that struck a vehicle. The vehicle was not damaged.

• An officer conducted a welfare check on a 41-year-old female after social media suggested she might be suicidal. She was found not to be suicidal but was arrested for outstanding warrants.

Wednesday, May 1

• An officer responded to a parochial school after an unknown man was seen on campus. Upon contact it was discovered the man was seeking food assistance and trying to determine who he needed to contact.
• Officers received a complaint of possible found drugs. Upon further investigation it is believed to have been a device to refill vape pens.
• An officer responded to a call from dispatch regarding a man that wanted assistance getting some personal property back.

Thursday, May 2

• While on patrol at Rambadt Park, an officer issued a citation for public use of marijuana.

• An officer responded to a welfare check on a 46-year-old female after she had an altercation with a male suspect in Big Rapids. It was determined to have been a verbal argument only.

Friday, May 3

• Officers took a complaint of an assault with no injuries at an apartment complex. The matter is under investigation.

• Officers were called to a disorderly individual at Westerburg Park. The investigation resulted in the arrest of a 47-year-old woman for Operating While Impaired – High Blood Alcohol Content.

Saturday, May 4

• Officers took a report of a 17-year-old runaway. The teen returned later in the day.

Sunday, May 5

• Officers received a complaint of thousands of cigarette butts discarded in the front yard of a residence. The officer spoke with the owner and issued a notice of violating city ordinance for the cigarette butts and the overgrown grass.
• While on foot patrol an officer located the door to a closed business unlocked. The owner was notified, and the building secured.
• An officer observed the door to an unoccupied vehicle open for an extended period of time. Upon making contact with the vehicle owner to check his well being, it was discovered he was loading his DJ equipment and got sidetracked talking to the owner of the business.

A marginal severe storm risk is in effect for West Michigan Tuesday afternoon into the evening hours.

Multiple weather and radar reports show multiple systems with heavy rains, elevated winds, and thunderstorms in the forecast between 2:00 P.M. and 10:00 P.M.

Please be alert to changing travel conditions as well as event cancellations in the area.

For up-to-date Weather Eye Forecasts, tune in to NewsRadio WBRN on 1460 AM, 96.5 and 107.7 FM, WBRN.com, and the WBRN mobile app.

Monday, April 29

• At around 1:40 P.M., deputies made a warrant arrest at a residence in Green TWP. A male subject was arrested on a felony warrant. He was lodged at the Mecosta County Jail.

• At around 3:00 P.M., deputies made a traffic stop in Big Rapids TWP. The traffic stop resulted in the male passenger being arrested for a probation violation. He was lodged at the Mecosta County Jail.

Calls for Service: 23

Traffic Accidents: 1

Tuesday, April 30

Calls for Service: 24

Traffic Accidents: 4

Wednesday, May 1

• At around 09:39 A.M., deputies made a warrant arrest in Martiny TWP. A male subject was arrested on a warrant. He was lodged at the Mecosta County Jail.

• At around 1:30 P.M., deputies responded to a disorderly complaint in Colfax TWP. A male subject was arrested for disorderly conduct and MDOP. He was lodged at the Mecosta County Jail.

Calls for Service: 29

Traffic Accidents: 4

Thursday, May 2

Calls for Service: 24

Traffic Accidents: 2

Friday, May 3

Calls for Service: 19

Traffic Accidents: 2

Saturday, May 4

• At around 10:13 P.M., deputies responded to a unlawful entry complaint at a residence in Mecosta TWP. A male subject was arrested and lodged at the Mecosta County Jail.

Calls for Service: 15

Traffic Accidents: 2

Sunday, May 5

• At around 5:00 P.M., deputies responded to a domestic complaint, at a residence in Big Rapids TWP. A male subject was arrested for a probation violation. He was lodged at the Mecosta County Jail.

Calls for Service: 10

Traffic Accidents: 1

Last Thursday, Congressman Bill Huizenga (R-MI) released the following statement after he was named a “Fiscal Hero” by the Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget for his expansive record of work confronting the national debt crisis and fixing the broken budget process. Last summer, Rep. Huizenga introduced the Fiscal Commission Act, which is designed to tackle our national debt and improve our nation’s fiscal trajectory.

“I am honored to be recognized for my efforts to get our nation’s fiscal house in order,” said Congressman Bill Huizenga. “What Washington spends on interest payments to finance the national debt is now greater than what is spent on our national defense. Not only is this unsustainable, but it is dangerous and unacceptable. This is why I introduced multiple pieces of legislation to tackle our national debt. I will continue fighting to reduce spending, fix our nation’s broken budget process, and restore fiscal sanity. While there’s much to be done, I’m thankful we’ve drawn greater attention to the urgency of this crisis.”

Maya MacGuineas, President of the Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget and head of Fix the Debt, said: “Fiscal responsibility is a stewardship, not only for Americans today but for generations of Americans to come. We applaud this year’s Fiscal Heroes, including Representative Huizenga, for having the courage to prioritize our fiscal health and work towards achieving a more sustainable debt trajectory. Through legislation, speeches, engagement back home, and tough political decisions, these Members of Congress have distinguished themselves as leaders on these key issues, and we are honored to recognize and applaud them for their efforts. We look forward to seeing how these Fiscal Heroes will build on the momentum in the past year to make even greater strides going forward.”

Fiscal Heroes are awarded each Congress to recognize policymakers working to improve the nation's fiscal situation and fix the budget process. Fiscal Heroes have distinguished themselves by pushing their party leaders to make debt a priority, leading efforts to work through policy options to fix the debt and the budget process, taking responsible votes, educating constituents on budgetary challenges, delivering floor speeches to raise awareness about the issue, advocating to keep tough choices on the table, and introducing legislation to improve the budget process and the nation's fiscal position.

(Photo provided by Brian Patrick)

Ferris State University’s Department of Public Safety is hosting its 19th annual Police Memorial on Tuesday, May 7, at 9 a.m. on the Robinson Quad. 

Department of Public Safety Director Gary Green is honored to collaborate with other agencies to host the event. 

The Police Memorial, a solemn occasion, pays respect to Ferris State Criminal Justice alums who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. The event also provides a unique opportunity for the public to meet and appreciate the dedication of law enforcement professionals from local and statewide agencies. 

“Reverend Jeremy Wicks, chaplain for the Big Rapids Department of Public Safety, and our assistant director Tim Jacobs will offer prayers during the ceremony as we remember these dedicated public servants who prepared for their careers at Ferris,” Green said. “A multi-jurisdictional team will present a 21-gun salute. Our Honor Guard consists of officers from various departments and the program will again include a bagpiper who will accompany various processions as part of the memorial.” 

Green will serve as the master of ceremonies for the program.  

Ferris State University President Bill Pink will address attendees before 100th District State Representative Tom Kunse, R-Clare, will deliver a keynote address.  

“The Big Rapids Department of Public Safety, Mecosta County’s Sheriff’s Department and Michigan State Police serving this area all contribute time and efforts to make this a special event,” Green said. “Beyond our participants from regional law enforcement agencies, we are pleased to welcome Big Rapids’ Junior High Choir and Public Safety and Protective Services students from the Mecosta-Osceola Career Center to this ceremony.” 

The Police Memorial is open to the public. Parking is available east of the David L. Eisler Center, 805 Campus Drive, in Lot 3A, Lot 1B, and Lot 3G. Additional spaces are available off North Campus Drive. 

In the event of rain, the Police Memorial will be inside Ferris State’s David L. Eisler Center, 805 Campus Drive.

CSAA Baseball

MONDAY 5/6/24 - 4p

Chip Hills 2 @ Big Rapids 5

TUESDAY 5/7/24 - 4p

Morley Stanwood @ Big Rapids

Lakeview @ C Montcalm

Reed City @ Tri County

Grant @ Oakridge

Kent City @ Chip Hills

Newaygo @ White Cloud

WEDNESDAY 5/8/24 - 4p

Comstock Park @ Newaygo

Pine River @ Reed City

THURSDAY 5/9/24 - 4p

C Montcalm @ Alma

Big Rapids @ Grant

Montabella @ Lakeview

Tri County @ Ravenna

FRIDAY 5/10/24 - 4p

Pine River @ Kent City

Hesperia @ Chip Hills

White Cloud @ Shelby

SATURDAY 5/11/24

Sacred Heart @ Big Rapids - 11a

Charlevoix/Montabella @ Big Rapids - 1:30p

Montague @ Grant

Orchard View @ Grant

******************************************

CSAA Softball

MONDAY 5/6/24 - 4p

Grant 26 @ Orchard View 9

Grant @ Orchard View

TUESDAY 5/7/24 - 4p

Morley Stanwood @ Big Rapids

Lakeview @ C Montcalm

Reed City @ Tri County

Kent City @ Chip Hills

Newaygo @ White Cloud

WEDNESDAY 5/8/24 - 4p

Beal City @ C Montcalm

Pine River @ Reed City

THURDAY 5/9/24 - 4p

Big Rapids @ Grant

Montabella @ Lakeview

FRIDAY 5/10/24 - 4p

Morley Stanwood @ Fremont

Pine River @ Kent City

Grant @ Ludington

Sparta @ Newaygo

Hesperia @ Chip Hills

White Cloud @ Shelby

SATURDAY 5/11/24

TBD @ Big Rapids - 12p

TBD @ Big Rapids - 2p

TBD @ Lakeview - 9a

TBD @ Lakeview - 11a

Stay up to date with scores at https://wbrn.com/ & on X: @BigRapidsDN

In a formal statement by the President of the Board of Education, Tony Gibson, Chippewa Hills School District announced a mutual agreement with Bob Grover to part ways.

According to Gibson, Grover decided to resign for personal reasons. 

“The decision of agreeing to the separation agreement was not an easy one to make,” Gibson said. “I am thankful for the years of service Dr. Grover provided the district and wish him the best of luck on his future endeavors. Moving forward, the board will continue to advocate for its students, and staff.”

Grover was the superintendent for nearly nine years, replacing Shirley Howard back on May 1, 2015. According to the release, the board felt the move was the “best outcome for the district and its students.”

The district had recently gone through disciplinary hearings with the board, but Gibson said there was no correlation to those events.

Grover will be replaced by Chippewa Hills High School principal Michelle Newman but will serve as a consultant for the remainder of the school fiscal year to help smoothen the transition.

“We wanted to keep this interim roll internally in hopes to have little to no slow down finishing the school year. We are lucky enough to have multiple leaders in our district that would have stepped in to fill the role if needed.”

A special board meeting is scheduled for Monday, May 6, at 6:00 P.M. in the High School Media Center to review the superintendent search timeline.

A “bacterial cell factory” to study natural cancer treatment agents is coming to a Ferris State University College of Pharmacy laboratory with support from the National Science Foundation.

Associate Professor of Pharmaceutical Sciences Eric Nybo received a second three-year grant to fund the production and study of anthracyclines, which he called “the most complex structures in nature.”

A $369,651 award from the foundation’s Chemistry, Bioengineering, Environment, and Transportation Systems Research division follows an approved $407,901 grant approved in 2020. 

The U.S. National Science Foundation is an independent agency of the federal government that supports fundamental research and education in all the non-medical fields of science and engineering.

The funding is directed to the “BIOPOLYMER” or BIObricks POLYketide Metabolic EngineeRing platform. Nybo, the project’s principal investigator, said their assistance comes from the foundation’s Research at Undergraduate Institutions resources. 

“We have developed a bacterial cell factory to produce anthracycline compounds, which has resulted in the creation of between 30 and 40 distinct chemical structures,” Nybo said. “Approximately 2,000 naturally occurring anthracyclines have been identified globally. We are developing anthracyclines into designer drugs for the treatment of cancers.” 

The NSF grant allows Nybo to provide valuable research experience to Ferris students in Pre-Pharmacy and other science-focused undergraduate degree programs. 

Nybo said he presented findings in six publications, with 11 students contributing to the first round of research.

“The new grant cycle allows us to continue creating the most complex structures in nature,” he said.

Nybo said the NSF award runs through February 2027. It will allow a dozen students to be paid for their contributions to the project. The Office of Research and Sponsored Programs assists faculty in identifying and managing grant opportunities; ORSP Director and Ferris Pharmacy alumnus Thomas Dowling said this is the university’s fourth award from the NSF. 

“Research activities at Ferris are focused on innovation, a pillar of the University Strategic Plan,” Dowling said. "Engaging students in research with mentors like Dr. Nybo and others is a high-impact practice known to improve student success, with many students pursuing graduate (Ph.D.) programs after their time at Ferris. We take pride in creating this type of vibrant intellectual community for our students.” 

Nybo said the BIOPOLYMER study team includes Professor Mikko Metsa-Ketela of the University of Turku in Turku, Finland, and the University of Kentucky Assistant Professor of Pharmaceutical Sciences Dr. Khaled Shaaban.  

The Ferris State University men's and women's outdoor track and field teams took part in the 2024 Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (GLIAC) Championships on Thursday and Friday (May 2-3) in Allendale.

The annual league championships were hosted by Grand Valley State and included student-athletes from 10 different league institutions. The FSU men tied for sixth place overall with 35 points while the women placed seventh with 22.5 points in the two-day event.

In the men's action, Ferris State's Chase Carter was the runner-up in the 100 meters (10.44) and the 200 meters (21.37). He reached the NCAA D2 National Provisional qualifying time in the 100 meters during preliminary action with a qualifying time of 10.40 in the race.

The Bulldogs' Brandon Wirth placed fourth overall in the 3,000-meter steeplechase (9:32.00).

Cooper Sorsen was seventh in the 10,000 meters (31:32.16) and Bryson Fronta finished eighth in the 200 meters (22.27). Devin Dennison took fifth place in the hammer throw (50.59m) and eighth place in the discus (42.08m).

FSU's men's 4x100-meter relay team of Blaine Rogers, Taariik Brett, Fronta and Carter placed fifth overall (42.49). In addition, the 4x400-meter relay squad consisting of Lucas Vandam, Tyrese Beedle, Ethan Hamiltonand Dean Topolski finished sixth (3:25.79).

On the women's side, the Bulldogs' Claudia Wilkinson tied for third overall in the high jump (1.61m).

Meanwhile, Whitney Farrell came in fifth in the women's 3,000-meter steeplechase with a NCAA Division II national provisional qualifying time of 11:01.10 in the race.

FSU's Harley Bear took sixth place in the discus (37.64m). Hanna Brock finished seventh in the 10,000 meters (38:17.62) while Danae Feldpausch placed eighth in the women's 1,500 meters (4:43.21). Nyah Tyron finished eighth in the 400 hurdles (1:05.11) and Rebecca Marvin was eight in the discus (37.03m).

Ferris State's women's 4x400-meter relay squad of Tyron, Makayla Roberts, Daisy Englund and Feldpausch placed sixth (4:02.86) while the 4x100-meter relay team of Lacey Zimmerman, Frances Hoffman, Ana Fortier and Angela Kotecki placed senveth (49.67).

The Bulldogs have several NCAA Division II National Provisional Qualifiers and will await the official NCAA selections later this month with last chance action also potentially set for this coming week.

Ferris State University graduate Nate Mathewson showed off the numerous cords and stoles he earned to wear during commencement on Saturday. But tucked among the honors was a pin of a blue jay and a small stuffed red cardinal clipped to his black gown.

“That’s for professor Klatt,” he said, paying tribute to a beloved professor who passed away unexpectedly this week.

Dr. Paul Klatt, a nationally respected expert on birds and the force behind Ferris State’s Osprey Web Cam, was honored by President Bill Pink with emeriti status during Saturday’s commencement celebrating graduates of the College of Arts, Sciences and Education.

Beth Zimmer, chair of Ferris State’s Biological Sciences Department, said Klatt strived to make learning fun.

“Dr. Paul Klatt was a colleague, a professor, a teacher, a mentor, and a friend,” she told graduates and their supporters. “However you knew him, as Dr. Klatt, or simply Paul, or even PK – or Birdman – whatever you called him or whatever relationship you had with him, you knew that he cared about us and everyone he met.”

A seat in the second row was draped in black, but also with a red and black checked vest, binoculars, and a single white flower. A number of students decorated their mortar boards with stuffed birds.

Ferris State this weekend presented degrees to more than 1,800 students, with about 1,300 participating in ceremonies at the Big Rapids campus and the Kendall College of Art and Design in Grand Rapids. Another 20 students who took classes online or live on the east side of the state were invited to accept their degree at Mott Community College in Flint.

Pink noted the Class of 2024 is particularly special. Many of the students earning degrees this weekend graduated high school in 2020 at the height of the pandemic and likely missed out on a graduation with traditional pomp and circumstance.

“For many of our graduates, this is their first true graduation ceremony, they’ve had since maybe kindergarten,” Pink said. “They celebrated their high school graduation on a computer screen or in a parking lot. So today, we’re going to celebrate in a big way.”

KCAD celebrated graduates from December 2023, Spring 2024, and Summer 2024 classes with a ceremony at the Forest Hills Fine Art Center. In Grand Rapids.

Life Sciences and Pre-Medical Illustration major Sophia Forystek was honored as the valedictorian of the Class of 2024. She is the first student from the Life Sciences and Pre-Medical Illustration to be selected as valedictorian.

“I was honestly shocked. It's such an incredible honor,” Forystek said. “It makes me feel abundantly loved to be held in such high regard.”

The program was a perfect fit for Forystek, who was originally pursuing a degree in nursing when the challenges of studying healthcare online during the pandemic led her to reconsider her path.

After learning about the Life Sciences and Pre-Medical Illustration degree at KCAD, she realized that she could combine her lifelong love of art with her knowledge of anatomy, forging a career that merges STEM with the creative arts.

“Communication is key in health care, and most people can relate to the feeling of being in a in a doctor's office and not fully knowing what they’re talking about. You get overwhelmed easily when you don’t feel educated enough to make your own decisions,” Forystek said. “I really want to be involved with making it easier for practitioners and patients to communicate.”

On Friday, May 3 at 12:44 A.M., deputies from the Mecosta County Sheriff's Office and Michigan State Police troopers were patrolling the apartments in Big Rapids Township on 14 Mile Road, when three gunshots were heard in one of the complexes.

Deputies were able to locate the person responsible for firing the shots, a 55-year-old male from Auburn, Michigan. The male admitted to shooting the gun in the air due to being frustrated with a verbal disagreement that had taken place.

The male was cooperative with the deputies and troopers and turned the handgun over to law enforcement. He was subsequently arrested for reckless discharge of a firearm and possession of a firearm while intoxicated.

All suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

In an announcement Friday morning, the Big Rapids Dial-A-Ride busing service will now be offering on-demand busing outside of the traditional busing network.

The app, named “Ride Pingo,” will help riders of all ages schedule the most convenient pick-up location and the quickest route to their desired location in the city of Big Rapids. 

Dial-A-Ride will be offering free rides from Wednesday, May 8, to Saturday, May 11 as a part of the collaboration. Following May 11, fees for general riders ages 17-59 will be $2.50 for one-way travel and $1.25 for kids ages 5-16, patrons ages 60 and older, and disabled riders. Children under four years old can ride for free with a guardian.

If a rider doesn’t have the app, rides can still be booked via dialing the call center at 231-796-8675. Operation hours for the service will be 6:30 A.M. to 6:30 P.M. on the weekdays and 9 A.M. to 4 P.M. on Saturdays.

(Graphic provided by the City of Big Rapids Communications).

CSAA Baseball

FRIDAY 5/3/24 - 4p

Big Rapids @ Grant - RESCHEDULED 4/9

White Cloud 5 @ Kent City 4

White Cloud 8 @ Kent City 2

Tri County @ Lakeview - RESCHEDULED

Reed City 11 @ Morley Stanwood 1

Reed City 7 @ Morley Stanwood 2

Belding 0 @ Newaygo 8

Belding 2 @ Newaygo 3

C Montcalm @ Chip Hills - RESCHEDULED

******************************************

CSAA Softball

FRIDAY 5/3/24 - 4p

Big Rapids @ Grant - RESCHEDULED 4/9

White Cloud 0 @ Kent City 1

White Cloud 0 @ Kent City 11 (5inn)

Tri County @ Lakeview - RESCHEDULED

Reed City 22 @ Morley Stanwood 8 (6inn)

Reed City 16 @ Morley Stanwood 0 (4inn)

C Montcalm @ Chip Hills - RESCHEDULED

Scooter’s Coffee® is honoring healthcare heroes in our communities with a free drink for any nurses and healthcare workers, with ID, on May 3, 2024.

The offer is redeemable only on Friday, May 3, 2024 for any drink on the Scooter’s Coffee menu of any size for customers who present a valid healthcare ID. The first 50 customers who redeem the free drink offer at each Scooter’s Coffee location will also receive a special Healthcare Heroes sticker.

Customers can Scoot On Around™ for their favorite beverages including our signature Caramelicious® drinks and any of our espresso drinks served hot, iced, or blended. This offer can also be redeemed for one of our cold brew coffees, Scooot! Energy™ Infusions, fruit smoothies, and more!

Pair your free drink with our delicious Tomato & Feta or our Bacon & Gouda Omelet Bites! These flavorful protein-packed bites are perfect for breakfast or a satisfying snack. Need something sweeter? Our fresh-baked Cinnamon Rolls are made by hand in our bakery, and each swirl is brimming with cinnamon and spices. Each roll is topped with a cream cheese icing and served warm.

This offer for a free drink is redeemable by any nurse or healthcare worker who presents valid healthcare ID upon ordering on Friday, May 3, 2024. No additional purchase is necessary. Limit one free drink per customer. Not eligible for mobile order ahead. Find your nearest Scooter’s Coffee location.

Big Rapids added to their large list of college-bound athletes on Thursday with 10 more signees. A full ceremony event was held at the Big Rapids High School yesterday afternoon with eight of the athletes in attendance, along with coaches, teachers, family, fans, and media.

“Today’s event is easily one of my favorites each year,” Athletic Director Dawn Thompson said. “It is a great opportunity to highlight our student-athletes as they look to compete at the next level, but more importantly we will see where they will continue their academic career.”

Here’s a look at the following student athletes that inked their national letters of intent along with some notes about their careers:

• Kaleb Dubowski, Calvin University, Football and Track & Field
  • All-state, region, conference, and area honoree in 2023. Helped the Cardinals earn back-to-back conference championships and a district championship this past fall. Played as a three-way starter as a defensive back, receiver, and kick returner. Averaged over 25 yards per reception and registered eight touchdowns.
• Jace Heck, Alma College, Football
  • All-state, region, conference, and area honoree in 2023. Converted 39 of 44 extra points. Also had 16 catches and nine yards per catch as a receiver. Earned two conference championships and a district title this past fall.  
• Dawson Kilpatrick, Muskegon Community College, Wrestling
  • Racked up 101 career wins in his career, including 53 of them by fall. Two-time first-team all-conference selection and one-time honorable mention. Recognized for his work ethic and leadership within the program.
• Cailin Knoop, Calvin University, Softball
  • Four-time varsity starter and Pioneer Dream team selection. Also two-time all-district and one-time all-region team selection. Career 41-2 record with a 1.15 E.R.A. this season. Also hitting .509 this season with 32 RBI’s and 17 extra base hits.
• Tyler Neil, William Penn University, Soccer
  • Helped team claim conference championship this past fall. Earned first-team all-CSAA honors. Scored five goals and three assists in junior season. Known for his versatility and passion for the game.
• Charles Roberts, Calvin University, Track & Field
  • Personal record of 5’ 10” in the high jump this season. Among one of Big Rapids’ top contributors for the track team. Quoted to be a consistent competitor and improving every week. 
• Christian Smits, Bluffton University, Soccer
  • Two-time all-CSAA first-team selection. Key contributor for CSAA championship team this past fall. Known for his focus and unselfishness as a good passer. 
• Zach Steers, Grand Rapids Community College, Golf
  • Four-year varsity starter for Cardinal program. Helped win two regional championships and a runner-up team finish at the state finals. First-team all-CSAA his junior year. Played in over 60 tournaments throughout his career.
• Ella Tucci, Delta College, Soccer
  • Three-year team captain, including being the youngest captain in program history. Four-time academic all-state honoree. Helped Cardinals win three consecutive district titles. Three-time all-conference and all-district honoree. Seven goals and 11 assists in four-year careers.
• Teresa Vance, Olivet Nazarene University, Soccer
  • All-region and all-state honorable mention last season. Three-time all-CSAA and all-district selection. 13 goals and 13 assists over four-year career. Picked as captain senior year. Known for her love of the game. 

These signees will join four other Cardinal seniors that have already signed their letters, which includes Toledo softball signee Marissa Warren, Davenport golf signee Preston Younge, Ferris State track signee Oliviah Malloy, and Northwood football signee Riley Vennix.

(Photo provided by Athletic Director Dawn Thompson).

For the third consecutive year, the Ferris State University women's golf team has earned a berth into the 2024 NCAA Division II East Regional Championships as the national organization unveiled its postseason qualifiers on Monday as selected by the national committee.

The Bulldogs are one of four squads from the Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference to secure a postseason berth for the East Regional, which will take place May 6 to 8 at the Prairie View Golf Club in Carmel, Ind. The regional championships will be hosted by the University of Indianapolis.

Along with Ferris State, the qualifiers also included Grand Valley State University, Wayne State University, and Davenport University from the GLIAC.

Two years ago, the Bulldogs placed 11th at the East Regional Championships in their first team trip to the postseason since 2014 when Ferris State finished fourth overall in the regional championships.

The Bulldogs previously made 13 consecutive NCAA appearances from 2002 to 2014. Last season, Ferris State placed seventh overall in the East Regional in Springfield, Ill.

Fifteen teams were selected from the East Region from six conferences in addition to six individual competitors from non-advancing schools.

All participants will compete through the 54 holes of competition with the top six teams from the East Region along with the top two individuals non on an advancing team moving on to the national championships set for May 21-25 at the Orange County National Golf Center and Lodge in Winter Garden, Fla.

Overall, the Bulldogs have twice captured a regional championship in 2003-04 and 2006-07 while attaining runner-up honors four times (2004-05, 2005-06, 2007-08, 2008-09).

Prior to earning an at-large bid this year, Ferris State reached the NCAA Tourney last year as the GLIAC's automatic qualifier after winning the league championship for the first time since 2007 during the 2023 spring season in Augusta, Mich. This year, the Bulldogs reached the conference semifinals two weeks ago in Augusta.

On Wednesday, May 1 at approximately 08:47 A.M., deputies from the Mecosta County Sheriff's Office were dispatched to a two-vehicle personal injury crash at the intersection of Northland Drive and 23 Mile Road in Green Township. 

The investigation revealed that a 70-year-old male from Hersey was turning east bound onto 23 Mile Road, when the male driver turned in front of a 26-year-old female from Hersey headed northbound and caused a collision. The female driver was transported to Big Rapids Corewell Health with non life-threating injuries.

Deputies on scene were assisted by Mecosta County EMS, Big Rapids Towing, Currie's Towing, Big Rapids Fire/Rescue, and Meceola Central Dispatch.

Former Ferris State University men's ice hockey assistant coach Derek Lalonde, who is currently the head coach of the National Hockey League's (NHL) Detroit Red Wings, has been tabbed as an assistant coach for the 2024 United States Men's National Team.

The U.S. Men's National Team will compete in the 2024 IIHF Men's World Championships set for May 10-26 in Ostrava and Prague, Czechia. All United States games in the world championship will be broadcast on the NHL Network.

Lalonde will serve as an assistant coach on the staff of head coach John Hynes of the Minnesota Wild.

Lalonde, who recently finished his second season as head coach of the NHL's Detroit Red Wings, will serve as an assistant coach for the U.S. Men's National Team for the second-straight year. Lalonde has been involved with Team USA on the international stage on two other occasions, helping the U.S. Junior Select Team to championships in the World Junior A Challenge in 2013 as head coach and as assistant coach in 2012.

Lalonde arrived in Detroit after spending four seasons (2018-22) as an assistant coach for the NHL's Tampa Bay Lightning where he helped the team earn Stanley Cup titles in 2020 and 2021.

The Brasher Falls, New York, native served as an assistant coach in NCAA Division I men's ice hockey first with Ferris State from 2002-2006 and then at the University of Denver from 2006-2011. He moved on to serve as head coach and general manager for the USHL's Green Bay Gamblers from 2011-14 where he recorded an overall record of 114-56-8-6 and was named the USHL Coach of the Year in 2012 after helping the Gamblers earn the Clark Cup title.

Lalonde spent two seasons (2014-16) as the head coach of the Toledo Walleye of the ECHL and earned the John Brophy Award as the league's coach of the year in his first campaign.

From 2016-18 he was the head coach of the AHL's Iowa Wild before moving to Tampa.

Lalonde's coaching career began as a graduate assistant men's ice hockey coach at Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts (formerly North Adams State) from 1995-98. He then had a two-year stint as an assistant men's ice hockey coach at Lebanon Valley College followed by two seasons as an assistant men's ice hockey coach at Hamilton College.

During his tenure on the Bulldog staff from 2002-26, Lalonde helped Ferris State claim the Central Collegiate Hockey Association (CCHA) Championship during a memorable 2002-03 campaign on the Bulldog bench under FSU head coach Bob Daniels and has remained an ambassador for Ferris State Hockey since his days in Big Rapids.

It’s that time of year for postseason softball. In the regular season, we saw a tight race that came down to the final two games to sort the top four seeds entering this year’s tournament. Looking at this year’s bracket, there’s no question that this tournament might be as entertaining as any of the previous tournaments since 2020. Here’s a look at the round-by-round bracket matchups:

Day 1 -- Thursday, May 2 

Game 1                11 A.M. CT / 12 P.M. ET              No. 4 Ferris State vs. No. 5 Wayne State

Game 2                1:30 P.M. CT / 2:30 P.M. ET     No. 3 Purdue Northwest vs. No. 6 Parkside

Game 3                4 P.M. CT / 5 P.M. ET    Loser Game 1 vs. Loser Game 2 (loser eliminated)

Day 2 -- Friday, May 3

Game 4                11 A.M. CT / 12 P.M. ET              No. 1 Grand Valley State vs. Winner Game 1

Game 5                1:30 P.M. CT / 2:30 P.M ET       No. 2 Saginaw Valley State vs. Winner Game 2

Game 6                4 P.M. CT / 5 P.M. ET    Loser Game 4 vs. Loser Game 5 (loser eliminated)

Day 3 -- Saturday, May 4 

Game 7                11 A.M. CT / 12 P.M. ET              Winner Game 4 vs. Winner Game 5

Game 8                1:30 P.M. CT / 2:30 P.M. ET     Winner Game 3 vs. Winner Game 6 (loser eliminated) 

Game 9                4 P.M. CT / 5 P.M. ET    Winner Game 8 vs. Loser Game 7 (loser eliminated)

Day 4 -- Sunday, May 5

Game 10             11 A.M. CT / 12 P.M. ET              Winner Game 7 vs. Winner Game 9 

Game 11             1:30 P.M. CT / 2:30 P.M. ET     Winner Game 7 vs. Winner Game 9 (if necessary)

With some intriguing matchups in the opening rounds, here’s a breakdown of the teams based on their regular season:

No. 1 Grand Valley State

The Lakers were the preseason favorite to notch the top spot, but it wasn’t by much. Edging out Saginaw Valley State by one vote overall and one first place vote, Grand Valley finished the regular season with a 33-14 record. There 16 conference wins were their lowest since 2016, but the Lakers have certainly proven themselves as a regional contender. Behind an elite pitching staff of Platek, Ingram, Eggart and Swierkos, Grand Valley owns the league’s best E.R.A. with an astounding 1.86 mark. The Lakers also play great defensively as the best fielding team in the conference and have two great bats in Hannah Hollister and Kelsey Komorous. Grand Valley have struggled on the road this year, but It’s fair to say the Lakers will be the favorite to take home the trophy in revenge of last year’s early exit.

No. 2 Saginaw Valley State 

Sharing the regular season crown this season with the Lakers, the Cardinals under GLIAC Coach of the Year Ryan Schalk are peaking at the right time. They have won five of their last six games entering the trip to Rosemont, Ill. his weekend. Saginaw Valley led the league in offense with a .302 batting average, .373 on-base percentage, and a .444 slugging percentage. Combine that with GLIAC pitcher of the year Emily DePew: this team is a dangerous number two seed. If they can avoid extra-inning games and an early trip to the bullpen, the Cardinals can certainly run it back from last year’s title run.

No. 3 Purdue Northwest

The Pride finished one game behind both team from the Valley, but they have certainly put the league on notice since their 2022 breakout season. The bats have been a big source of their success this season, as they roster both the top individual in batting average with Kylie Dugan and the regular season home run champion in Selena Michko. Northwest only rolls with two pitchers in Gabby Paliska and Maddison Roop to start on the mound, but both have had top-tier seasons in 2024. As one of the most momentous teams in the league, they are a team that loves stringing extra base hits; however, they can also get cold and don’t prefer stealing many bases to make up for it. 

No. 4 Ferris State

The hometown Bulldogs have continued to improve in year two under head coach Jake Schumann. As a team that was at one point in the running for the top seed, Ferris has taken down every team in the league. The reason for falling to the fourth spot: they have also lost to every team in the league. Consistency is the worry with the group but there is a lot of upsides entering the tournament. Top ace Aryn Gallacher has pitched with inspiration in her final season with a 1.16 WHIP, GLIAC Freshman of the Year Alexis Kozlowski has 47 RBI’s batting clean up this year, and middle infield duo Jadyn Joseph and Emma Gillard are two of the top base stealers in the league with a combined 35 successful attempts in 37 tries. While the team holds a low amount of experience, the Bulldogs have shown they can play small ball and make some big plays with a group of mostly first- and second-year players. 

No. 5 Wayne State

While the Warriors finished with nine losses in their last 12 games, Wayne State enters tournament play with some optimism. Rylie Josephson, Abby Favela, Shelby Miller, and Kiley Lewandowski have provided a sturdy offensive core four with a combined .346 average. Wayne doesn’t have the speed as other teams in the conference, but they rely on fundamental hitting, a good defense, and pitchers that can sit down batters on strikes. The team out of Detroit will have their hands full with top seeds, but making the tournament this year might provide the spark they need to exit this slump. 

No. 6 Wisconsin-Parkside

As the last team in the tourney, the Rangers enter the tournament as the Cinderella hopeful. Parkside loves to play in high scoring affair, especially as a team to score and give up a lot of runs. While their lineup and rotation aren’t as deep as other teams, the Rangers do have the player of the year in Mia Johnson and fellow first team honoree behind the dish in Megan Medlin. Coach Ortman has the Rangers in their highest conference finish during her tenure in the regular season. While Parkside may not look like a threat on the stat sheets, this group made the GLIAC tournament title game in 2023 and upset top-seed Grand Valley State twice. 

For more tournament information, visit https://www.gliac.org/tournaments/sball/2023-24/index.

CSAA Baseball

TUESDAY 4/30/24

Kent City 0 @ Big Rapids 11 (6inn)

Kent City 1 @ Big Rapids 11 (6inn)

Grant 3 @ C Montcalm 2

Grant 6 @ C Montcalm 3

Morley Stanwood 5 @ Tri County 4

Morley Stanwood 0 @ Tri County 10 (6inn)

Newaygo 5 @ Reed City 4

Newaygo 6 @ Reed City 8 (5inn)

Lakeview 3 @ White Cloud 4

Lakeview 6 @ White Cloud 13

WEDNESDAY 5/1/24 - 4p

Chip Hills @ Montabella

Coopersville @ Newaygo

Whitehall @ Grant

C Montcalm @ Saranac

FRIDAY 5/3/24 - 4p

Big Rapids @ Grant

White Cloud @ Kent City

Tri County @ Lakeview

Reed City @ Morley Stanwood

Belding @ Newaygo

C Montcalm @ Chip Hills

SATURDAY 5/4/24

Grant @ Hesperia - 9a

White Cloud @ Hesperia - TBD

******************************************

CSAA Softball

TUESDAY 4/30/24

Kent City 1 @ Big Rapids 2

Kent City 1 @ Big Rapids 12 (5inn)

Grant 0 @ C Montcalm 10

Grant 1 @ C Montcalm 5

Morley Stanwood @ Tri County

Morley Stanwood @ Tri County

Newaygo 2 @ Reed City 12 (5inn)

Newaygo 5 @ Reed City 7

Lakeview 0 @ White Cloud 4

Lakeview 11 @ White Cloud 10

WEDNESDAY 5/1/24 - 4p

Chip Hills @ Montabella

THURDAY 5/2/24 - 4p

Belding @ Newaygo

FRIDAY 5/3/24 - 4p

Big Rapids @ Grant

White Cloud @ Kent City

Tri County @ Lakeview

Reed City @ Morley Stanwood

C Montcalm @ Chip Hills

SATURDAY 5/4/24

Grant @ Hesperia - 9a

White Cloud @ Hesperia - TBD

*image courtesy fo Chris Teceno

Monday, April 22

• An officer conducted a well fare check after an individual made a call to dispatch requesting assistance. The individual was transported to the hospital for a mental health evaluation.
• An officer took a report of an accident that happened in the WESCO parking lot. No injuries or major damage.

Tuesday, April 23

• An officer took a report of a possible scam attempt.
• An officer assisted a 47-yr-old male that came into the department with issues with his neighbor blocking his driveway. The officer contacted the neighbor, and the vehicle was moved. No issues.
• Officers investigated a report of numerous air duster cans being found in the park for the possibility it is being abused and huffed. The matter is under investigation.

Wednesday, April 24

• An officer conducted a well fare check on a 46-year-old male.
• An officer arrested a 27-year-old female on an outstanding warrant for failing to appear in court.

Thursday, April 25

• An officer assisted a female that contacted the department about a possible internet scam involving the online sale of a vehicle. The matter was unfounded.
• An officer conducted a welfare check on a couple of children after getting a call from the daycare with some concerns. After the Officer contacted the family, the reports were unfounded.
• Officers received a referral from CPS of possible neglect. Upon further investigation the matter has already been investigated.
• An officer responded to a call for a noise complaint. After the Officer arrived and made contact with the people involved, the reports were unfounded.

Friday, April 26

• No incidents reported.

Saturday, April 27

• An officer responded to a single vehicle rollover PDA. Following this investigation, an uninjured 58-year-old Reed City woman was arrested for OWI.
• An officer assisted OCSD with a domestic call.

Sunday, April 28

• An officer was called to a residence over suspicious activity. It was determined the caller was having a paranoid episode and was transported for mental health treatment.
• An officer assisted MSP with a suspicious individual.
• An officer investigated a possible domestic dispute between two male individuals. No issues.

The Detroit Lions announced today that online applications for their 2024 Touchdown in Your Town program are now open. The program, which supports high school football programs around the state of Michigan, will now also benefit cheer programs, both broadening the reach to student athletes and further growing the game.

 In partnership with the United Dairy Industry of Michigan (UDIM) and Planet Fitness, the Lions are dedicated to aiding schools by supplying crucial equipment, technology, apparel and/or grants funded by the Detroit Lions Foundation. Building on last year’s success, Planet Fitness renewed its commitment to renovating a school weight room for at least one selected program.

 "We are excited to continue impacting Michigan high school football teams through Touchdown in Your Town, as well as expand our reach by now also supporting high school cheer programs," said Detroit Lions Vice President of Detroit Lions Foundation and Community Relations Roxanne Caine. "By wielding our resources with the Detroit Lions Foundation, and teaming up with UDIM and Planet Fitness, we will be able to empower the selected schools and ensure the students have the tools they need for success on the field."

 Schools must apply for support through an online application at www.detroitlions.com/touchdown, which opened today, Monday, April 29 and will run through Wednesday, May 29 at 11:59 PM EST. Coaches, athletic directors, and football and cheer staff members from Michigan high schools are eligible to apply for one football grant and/or one cheer grant. Submissions will be reviewed by a committee comprised of members from the Lions organization and partners.

Once the programs are selected, the Lions will work with each school to surprise students and staff to reveal the new resources and/or funding during a special experience with the Detroit Lions.

Designed to foster safe play and a love of football while leveling the playing field for Michigan high school football programs, the Touchdown in Your Town program has invested more than $754,000 since 2019. This program is a key pillar to our $5,000,000 investment in youth sports throughout the community.