Calls for Service: 27

Traffic Accidents: 1

Tuesday, Apr. 14

Calls for Service: 15

Traffic Accidents: 2

Wednesday, Apr. 15

Calls for Service: 14

Traffic Accidents: 2

Thursday, Apr. 16

• At 3:55 p.m., deputies were involved in a short vehicle pursuit in Chippewa Township. The suspect vehicle pulled into a driveway and parked. The male driver was arrested for Operating While Intoxicated. He was lodged at the Mecosta County Jail.

Calls for Service: 11

Traffic Accidents: 1

Friday, Apr. 17

• At 10:07 p.m., deputies made a traffic stop in Martiny Township. The traffic stop resulted in a female subject being arrested for Possession of Methamphetamine. She was lodged at the Mecosta County Jail.

Calls for Service: 15

Traffic Accidents: 3

Saturday, Apr. 18

• At 11:38 a.m., deputies responded to a domestic complaint at a residence in Big Rapids Township. A female subject was arrested for Domestic Assault. She was lodged at the Mecosta County Jail.

Calls for Service: 13

Traffic Accidents: 0

Sunday, Apr. 19

• No incidents reported.

After a four month search, Reed City Area Public Schools has selected its new district superintendent.

The board of education voted in a special meeting last Thursday, April 16, to select Jennifer Goodman as the district’s new leader. Goodman has served as superintendent of Pewamo Westphalia Community Schools since July 2021, replacing Jeff Wright, who later became superintendent of Newaygo Public Schools. She also spent about a decade as principal at Holt Public Schools and worked in education near Detroit and in Arizona.

“In Jennifer, I believe we have found a collaborative leader who will continue moving our district forward and who will celebrate the achievements of our students and staff,” Board of Education President Jamie Eichenberg said in a release. “We are excited to welcome her and begin this next chapter together.”

There were 12 initial candidates for the position, which was posted in January. The board narrowed it down to six and then to three final candidates on April 16. Public participation was utilized through multiple community surveys, which the board appreciated.

“Choosing a superintendent is one of the board’s most challenging and meaningful tasks. We interviewed excellent candidates, and throughout the process we felt shared excitement about the future of RCAPS,” Eichenberg said.

Goodman will begin official duties July 1. She succeeds Michael Sweet, who served the Reed City district for six years. She will become the fifth person to serve as superintendent since 2013.

_{Photo and release details courtesy of Reed City Area Public Schools.}

Brutus now stands among the immortals — and he got there in style.

The beloved Ferris State University Bulldogs mascot has joined the ranks of legends spanning sports, entertainment, politics — and even Pope Leo — with the debut of his very own bobblehead.

Brutus himself made the trip to Milwaukee to personally deliver the head-bobbing mini version of him to the founders of the National Bobblehead Hall of Fame and Museum.

Museum founders Phil Sklar and Brad Novak gladly accepted the newest addition, placing it among more than 10,000 figures that line the shelves of the museum in the city’s Historic Third Ward.

“This is awesome,” Novak said of the Bobbing Brutus, depicted with paws outstretched and wearing a red Ferris State football jersey. “We sometimes have mascots in the museum, but I don’t think we’ve ever had a mascot here presenting a bobblehead of himself. This is great!”

The moment was even more special for Novak, who has a Ferris State connection. His cousin Katie is a graduate of the Professional Tennis Management program.

The Brutus bobblehead, which debuted in January, is already turning heads (and nodding them) at the Ferris Outfitters store on the Big Rapids campus and online. The figure was brought to life by Spirit Products, a Massachusetts-based company known for crafting custom collegiate memorabilia.

Ferris Outfitters manager Travis Curry said the idea came straight from Bulldog fans.

“Ferris State is a top school, with championship teams and high-quality academic programs,” he said. “We are a big-name school, and our reputation is growing. A big-name school definitely needs a bobblehead.”

Turning Brutus into bobblehead form was no quick task. Curry said the design process took about a year, with careful attention paid to every detail.

“They didn’t take a generic bulldog and turn it into a bobblehead,” Curry said. "They took great pains to ensure it was our Brutus.”

That attention to detail paid off — and now Brutus has a permanent place in bobblehead history.

Sklar and Novak’s journey to building the museum began in 2002, when they first started collecting while Novak worked for the Rockford RiverHawks baseball team. What began as tracking down stadium giveaways quickly grew into a passion project, then a traveling exhibit, and eventually a full-fledged museum, which opened in early 2019.

Today, their collection is believed to be the largest in the world, drawing about 20,000 visitors annually — including professional athletes, curious fans, and even actor Macaulay Culkin, who once stopped by after donating a bobblehead of his “Home Alone” character.

From 18th century “nodding dolls” to vintage sports figures and a 1960s Beatles set, the museum celebrates the history and joy of collectible figures.

“Bobbleheads are just fun to collect,” Sklar said. “People enjoy collecting things related to their favorite sports teams or a politician or movie character. And some people like seeing the value go up and up.”

Among their most meaningful pieces is a bobblehead of their friend Michael Poll, a longtime University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee Panthers athletics manager and Special Olympian. Created in 2013, proceeds from Poll bobblehead sales continue to support Special Olympics.

On the business side, Sklar and Novak stay tuned into pop culture and politics — and one of this year’s hottest items has been a bobblehead of Pope Leo XIV, the first American pontiff and a noted Chicago sports fan.

As for Brutus, he’s already settling into his new home.

The Bobbing Brutus now sits proudly on the museum’s “new arrivals” shelf alongside members of the U.S. soccer team and the cast of “Friends,” greeting visitors with his signature Bulldog spirit before eventually moving to the college mascots section.

Not bad company for Ferris State’s favorite ambassador — and not a bad day for a mascot who just made history… by delivering himself.

_{Release and photo courtesy of Ferris State University.}

On Friday, Apr. 17, at approximately 1:36 p.m., deputies from the Mecosta County Sheriff’s Office were dispatched to the area of 45th Avenue near 19 Mile Road in Barryton for a traffic crash.

An investigation revealed that an 18-year-old man from Barryton was traveling southbound on 45th Avenue, when he failed to stop at a posted stop sign. He then entered the intersection and collided with a vehicle driven by a 34-year-old man from Remus traveling eastbound on 19 Mile Road.

The 18-year-old and his passenger were both transported to Corewell Health Big Rapids Hospital with serious but non-life-threatening injuries.

Deputies on scene were assisted by Meceola Central Dispatch, Barryton Fire/Rescue, Hill Top Towing, Huff's Towing, and Mecosta County EMS. 

_{Release courtesy of Mecosta County Sheriff's Office.}

Following the severe weather and flooding that has continued to impact many Michigan communities this week, the Michigan Department of Insurance and Financial Services (DIFS) is providing tips and resources to help residents with filing insurance claims and protecting themselves from fraud. 

“Over the past few days, Michiganders have faced extreme weather conditions, including flooding and tornadoes. As recovery begins, it’s normal for consumers to have questions about filing insurance claims, and DIFS stands ready to help,” said DIFS Director Anita Fox. “Consumers can call our live call center at 877-9996-442, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., for support. We can guide residents through the next steps in their recovery as they assess damage and make insurance claims.” 

Affected residents should contact their insurance agent or company to review their policy, determine what coverage may be available, and promptly file any claims. It’s important to note that most homeowners and renters insurance policies do not cover flood damage. Those experiencing water-related damage should be aware that the term “flood” may have a specialized meaning under their insurance policy and there can be many causes for water damage, including storm-related rainwater intrusion, sewer backup, or failing sump pump, which may be covered under the policy.  

Anyone impacted by the severe weather or flooding across the state should: 

• First, contact their insurance company’s claims hotline and/or agent to report damage to their home or vehicle and file a claim. Have the policy number and other relevant information readily available. To make this process easier, DIFS offers an insurance claim tracking tool to organize information. 
• Take steps to protect the property and prevent further loss. Be sure to keep receipts for any purchases of supplies that are needed to protect the property. 
• Document the loss. Take pictures or videos of the damaged items and do not get rid of the items until instructed to do so by the insurance company. 
• Stay vigilant of fraud and scams. After a severe weather incident, fraudsters claiming to be adjusters, contractors, and other service providers often go door-to-door pretending to offer services, like debris cleanup or building repairs, that will not be completed or may be completed with poor-quality materials or shoddy workmanship. 
• Contact their insurance company before hiring a contractor. Be sure to check the service provider’s credentials, including licenses, references, and insurance. Also, remember that insurance adjusters are paid by the insurance company and should never ask homeowners for any payment for their services that are covered by their homeowners or renter’s policy. 
• Contact DIFS with questions or concerns about insurance coverage. DIFS encourages consumers to first attempt to resolve any claim disputes directly with their insurance company or agent. If a resolution cannot be reached, DIFS can assist. Consumers can contact DIFS' Office of Consumer Services’ live call center at 877-999-6442, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. 

To learn more and file a complaint, visit Michigan.gov/DIFScomplaints. Additional disaster recovery information is available on the DIFS website. 

The Michigan State Police Emergency Management and Homeland Security Division (MSP/EMHSD) has activated the Joint Information Center (JIC) as the source of state agency information dissemination. Find links to and sign up to receive MSP and SEOC news releasesand follow Facebook and X or the latest information from the JIC.

For tips on how to prepare before, during and after an emergency or disaster, visit MIReady.

_{Release courtesy of Michigan Department of Insurance and Financial Services.}

The Big Rapids Department of Public Safety issuing a warning to residents and visitors: Stay out of the Muskegon River.

Following recent heavy rains, the river has hit flood stage, and the water is moving with enough force to be deadly to anyone who enters it and we are receiving calls of children and adults playing in or near the fast flowing river.

"This isn't the time for a quick swim," said DPS Officer William Sell. "The river looks fast, and it’s much more powerful than it looks. At these levels, even a professional with the right gear would struggle. For a child or a pet, it’s a trap."

There are several factors that make the river so dangerous right now:

Debris You Can’t See: The flood stage has pulled logs, heavy branches, and other items into the main channel. These objects move just below the surface and can easily strike or pin a swimmer.

The "Undertow" Effect: High-velocity water creates unpredictable whirlpools and currents near bridge pilings and bends in the river that can pull a person under in seconds.

Collapsing Banks: The ground near the water is completely saturated. Just standing on the edge is dangerous right now, as the banks can give way without warning, dumping you into the swiftest part of the current.

Unexpected Cold: While the air is warming up, the river remains dangerously cold. Falling in can trigger immediate "cold shock," causing you to lose your breath and your ability to swim almost instantly.

Keep your distance. Stay at least ten feet back from the water’s edge. Watch your pets. Keep dogs on short leashes near the river trails; a dog jumping in for a stick right now likely won't be able to get back out.

Don’t be a hero. If you see someone in trouble, do not jump in. You will only become a second victim for rescuers to find. Call 911 immediately and try to reach them with a rope or a long pole from solid ground.

_{Release courtesy of Big Rapids DPS.}

For more than 1,200 local ninth graders, this past Wednesday wasn’t about textbooks or tests; it was all about hands-on career exploration. With smiles on their faces and a list of questions, students from 17 area high schools got the chance to explore what their futures might hold beyond the classroom.

Students participated in numerous hands-on activities, including virtual welding, using artificial intelligence, speed challenges, log climbing, ultrasound and more, during the seventh-annual MiCareerQuest West Central event hosted by Michigan Works! West Central. These experiences provided students with valuable insight into the wide variety of high-demand career and education opportunities available in west-central Michigan, includuing healthcare, manufacturing and skilled trades.

A total of 1,215 ninth graders from eight counties participated in the event, which gave local students the opportunity to connect with 73 employers, local training providers, and local industry experts and learn about what a day in the life of their industry is all about. The annual event was held on April 15, inside Ferris State University’s Wink Arena.

“MiCareerQuest gives every ninth-grade student in our area the chance to explore interactive hands-on exhibits, try out industry-specific activities, and meet local professionals from across a wide variety of industry sectors,” said Shelly Keene, Michigan Works! West Central CEO. “We invite freshmen to attend because it’s important for them to understand the breadth of opportunities available locally. This whole event is to get students thinking about what path they take after they finish high school, whether it’s going to a two-year college, four-year university, a trade school, into an apprenticeship, into the military or right into the workforce. We are providing them with practical information so they can make informed decisions about their education path and beyond.”

The platinum sponsor for this year’s MiCareerQuest event was the West Michigan Plumbers, Fitters & Service Trades Local 174, which has participated in the event every year since it began in 2020. UA 174 member and Refrigeration Service Technician Matthew Maleski participated at this year’s event, where he talked to students about being a plumber-pipefitter and provided information about their apprenticeship programs.

“This experience is really important for our youth to learn about all kinds of professions out there,” Maleski said about MiCareerQuest. “Without coming to this event, kids just wouldn’t know what all of these types of professions are all about and the vast number of opportunities that are available to them in the region.”

Michigan Works! West Central successfully launched its inaugural in-person MiCareerQuest West Central event in 2020, before adapting to a virtual format for two years during the COVID 19 pandemic. The event returned to in-person in 2023, and has seen steady growth in participation each year. An estimated 12,200 freshmen across six counties have been in attendance over its first seven years of the event.

“MiCareerQuest West Central is our largest event of the year and an incredible experience for students to get a better idea of what high-demand industries and occupations are available in their hometowns,” said Jonathan Eppley, Director of Communications and Public Affairs for Michigan Works! West Central. “Our goal for the event is to connect the next generation of workforce with the local employers and training providers, but our reward is seeing the students’ excitement as they discover new interests and career possibilities. MiCareerQuest takes about six months to plan, and is such a great experience for everyone involved, including students, educators, exhibitors, volunteers and our dedicated staff. We can’t wait for next year’s event.”

Michigan Works! West Central has service centers in Lake, Mason, Mecosta, Newaygo, Oceana and Osceola counties, and offers a variety of services to both employers and job seekers. For more info or to find your local center, please visit MWWC.org. 

Press release and photo courtesy of Michigan Works! West Central.

According to a recent release by Mecosta County Emergency Services, a local state of emergency has been issued for Mecosta County due to significant flooding.

Since Sunday, Apr. 12, the Muskegon River has risen immensely and will continue to rise until midday Friday. The National Weather Service has issued numerous flood warnings throughout the week, including a current flood watch that will last until 2 a.m. Friday, Apr. 17.

"Countywide emergency services are continuing to monitor and respond to the situation as it is continuously evolving," the County said in a press release. "Numerous homes are surrounded by water. Roads may be impassable, due to washout or water across the road. In addition, other areas of the county, namely the Chippewa River and Little Muskegon River are reaching high levels."

The state of emergency will last through next week on Thursday, Apr. 23, unless it is extended by county personnel. Damage assessment teams will be out across the county during this time. If you have damage to report, visit https://arcg.is/10ab1j.

For any questions, contact Mecosta County Emergency Management via phone at (231)592-9484 or by email at emermgmt@mecostacounty.org.

Monday, Apr. 6

• An officer was dispatched to a larceny complaint. The complaint remains open pending further investigation. 

Tuesday, Apr. 7

• No incidents reported. 

Wednesday, Apr. 8

• An officer was dispatched to a threats complaint. It was determined that no threats had been made, but the caller wanted the messaging conversation document in case there was further harassment.  

Thursday, Apr. 9

• An officer was dispatched to a civil standby while a subject was removing her belongings from a residence.
• Officers were dispatched to assist with locating a runaway juvenile. The juvenile was located. 
• Officers was dispatched to investigate a property damage accident.
• An officer was called to a well-being check. 

Friday, Apr. 10

• No incidents reported. 

Saturday, Apr. 11

• No incidents reported. 

Sunday, Apr. 12

• No incidents reported. 

Governor Gretchen Whitmer recently declared a state of emergency for 31 counties due to recent storm damage and severe flooding.

Affected counties in our listening area include Clare, Lake, Missaukee, Montcalm, Newaygo, Osceola, and Wexford. Whitmer’s action expands on two previously declared emergencies involving the Cheboygan Dam and the statewide energy situation.

“Local officials in these counties have taken several actions to respond to the situation, such as issuing local emergency declarations, activating the response and recovery aspects of their emergency operations plans, and providing public information,” Gov. Whitmer said. “Despite these efforts, local resources have proven insufficient. State assistance and other outside resources, including potential federal assistance, are necessary to respond to and recover from the impacts of this emergency, protect public health, safety, and property, and lessen or avert the threat of more severe and lasting harm.”

Flood warnings are currently active along the Muskegon River in Newaygo County near Newaygo, Croton, and Bridgeton and in Osceola County near Evart. All of Missaukee and Wexford County is also under a Flood Warning until Sunday, Apr. 19, at 7:45 p.m. Mecosta County is also in a Flood Warning until Thursday, Apr. 16, at 11 a.m.

According to the National Weather Service, between 2 and 3 inches of rainfall was reported on Tuesday night with the possibility of up to another 1.5 inches on Wednesday night.

“Flooding is occurring following recent heavy rainfall and snowmelt,” NWS Grand Rapids said. “Roads and structures near lakes and rivers will continue to see high water levels and potential wash outs.”

In Evart, the South Main Street Bridge closed on Wednesday afternoon due to high water levels. Great Lakes Energy has also shut off power in multiple places due to the dangers near the water.

Newaygo County has closed all public boat launches due to the rising water levels. Lake County officials have closed multiple roadways due to bridge washouts or road erosion, including a stretch of Hawkins Road in Ellsworth Township. In Clare County, nine different stretches of road were closed yesterday due to hazardous conditions.

Following along with emergency updates here: https://www.facebook.com/michemhs.

The Michigan State Police Lakeview Post is investigating a fatal crash that occurred on Tuesday, Apr. 14, at approximately 6:57 a.m. on Stanton Road near Blackmer Road.

After a preliminary investigation, it was found that a semi-truck was traveling eastbound on Stanton Road when a Hyundai Elantra, driven by a 30-year-old Stanton man, crossed into the eastbound lane and was struck by the semi. Following the collision, the vehicle caught fire.

The Stanton man was pronounced deceased at the scene. The driver of the semi sustained minor injuries. Alcohol is not believed to be a factor in the crash. The investigation remains ongoing.

Michigan State Police were assisted on scene by the Crystal Fire Department, Montcalm County Sheriff’s Office, Montcalm EMS, and Gratiot Towing.

Upcoming road work is slated for one of the busiest intersections in Big Rapids.

Starting on Tuesday, Apr. 21, the intersection at Perry Avenue and State Street will be under construction for repairs to the water main. Estimated time for completion is unknown at this time.

"For those traveling east or west on Perry Avenue, please use Ferris Drive as a detour around the construction area," the City of Big Rapids said via Facebook. "The north and southbound lanes on State Street will be reduced to one lane in each direction. Those coming out of Campus Drive will only be able to turn right. There will be no left turns at the intersection of Perry Ave and State Street."

Construction on the project will be completed by the Big Rapids Department of Public Works and Reith Reilly Constrcution.

The City of Big Rapids' detour map can be found here: DETOUR MAP.

The Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) continues to adjust spring weight restriction areas in an annual move to protect roads.

Effective 6 a.m. Monday, April 13, weight restrictions will be lifted on all state trunkline highways from the southern Michigan border north to and including US-10 in Ludington, Mason County, at the M-116 intersection, east to M-66 in Osceola County, north to M-61 in Osceola County, and then east to US-23 in Standish, Arenac County, including the entire thumb area. 

Frost restrictions are still in effect for the remainder of the state and will be imposed and enforced on all state trunkline highways north of the US-10/M-61 line, including the entire Upper Peninsula and Mackinac Island. State routes typically carry M, I, or US designations.

In the restricted areas, the following will apply:

• On routes designated as "all-season" (designated in green and gold on the MDOT Truck Operators Map), there will be no reduction in legal axle weights.
• All extended permits will be valid for oversize loads in the weight-restricted area on the restricted routes. Single-trip permits will not be issued for any overweight loads or loads exceeding 14 feet in width, 11 axles, and 150 feet in overall length on the restricted routes.
• On routes designated as "seasonal" (designated in solid or dashed red on the MDOT Truck Operators Map), there will be a posted weight reduction of 25 percent for rigid (concrete) pavements and 35 percent for flexible (asphalt) pavements, and maximum speed of 35 mph for some vehicles.

Drivers must follow the speed limits for weight restricted roads, per state law. Go online for speed restrictions for trucks and the rules for propane fuel delivery and public utility vehicles.

When roads that have been frozen all winter begin to thaw from the surface downward, melting snow and ice saturate the softened ground. During the spring thaw, the roadbed softened by trapped moisture beneath the pavement makes it more susceptible to damage. This contributes to pothole problems already occurring due to this winter's numerous freeze-thaw cycles.

MDOT determines when weight restrictions begin each spring by measuring frost depths along state highways, observing road conditions and monitoring weather forecasts. Weight restrictions remain in effect until the frost line is deep enough to allow moisture to escape and the roadbeds regain stability.

County road commissions and city public works departments put in place their own seasonal weight restrictions, which usually but not always coincide with state highway weight restrictions. Signs are generally posted to indicate which routes have weight restrictions in effect.

For weight restriction information and updates, call 800-787-8960 or you can access this information on MDOT's website at www.Michigan.gov/Truckers under "Restrictions." All-season routes are designated in green and gold on the MDOT Truck Operators Map. You also may sign up to receive email alerts.

Trucking companies located in New Jersey and Canada can obtain information by calling 517-373-6256.

_{Release information courtesy of Michigan Department of Transportation.}

Severe weather appears to be making a return to West Michigan early this week.

For Monday, the Storm Prediction Center (SPC) has placed the entire Lower Peninsula in a marginal risk (level 1 of 5) for severe storms. The system will develop as a low-pressure center tracks eastward from the South Dakota-Nebraska border along a warm front over parts of Wisconsin and southern Minnesota.

Thunderstorms are expected to form during the late evening hours and cross Lake Michigan overnight around midnight. The storms will bring an abundance of heavy rain as well as increased chances of hail, especially across eastern portions of central Michigan, including Clare, Mount Pleasant and West Branch. Damaging winds will also possible, however the tornado risk will be more focused on Wisconsin and Minnesota.

Tuesday is a greater concern for severe weather in Michigan. According to Sunday morning’s convective outlook, the Lower Peninsula south of the M-55 corridor has a slight risk (level 2 of 5) for severe weather. Most of the Lower Peninsula north of the corridor remains under a marginal risk (level 1 of 5). 

Frequent lightning, heavy rain, and hail, will be possible with these storms Tuesday night. An additional threat of damaging winds and tornadoes will exist, but storm intensity and tornadic development will depend on earlier rainfall, atmospheric destabilization, a potential capping inversion, and storm intiation with the early storm system overnight Monday.

“With time, and as the low-level jet increases during the evening, convection may consolidate/grow upscale into one or most bowing segments and progress eastward into Lower Michigan, posing continued risk for hail and an increasing risk for damaging wind gusts," NWS forecaster Liz Leitman said.

Hourly WeatherEye forecasts can be heard at the top of the hour on WBRN via 96.5 FM, 1460 AM, WBRN.com, and the WBRN mobile app.

Pine River Area Schools has been named one of 12 winners of the 2026 Education Excellence Award, receiving a $2,500 grant for its “Steaming Ahead with the K-5 STEAM Education Program."

Each year, the SET SEG Foundation hosts the Education Excellence Awards in partnership with the Michigan Association of School Boards (MASB), granting funds to public school programs that change lives and impact students’ futures. In addition to the grant, award recipients receive an “Education Excellence Winner” road sign and commemorative trophy to proudly display their accomplishment in the community. Thanks to the generosity of donors, the foundation was able to increase giving to provide 12 awards in 2026, up from 10 in previous years.

The STEAM Education Program is rooted in the belief that creativity, curiosity and problem-solving are essential skills for all learners. Each student who goes through the program participates in a tiered system that allows students to progress and tackle increasingly complex challenges, starting with basic experimentation and exposure to full hands-on learning with circuits, coding and engineering design.

“Creative thinking in science and math helps students build lifelong skills that extend beyond the classroom,” said Molly Mellema, executive director of the SET SEG Foundation. “We’re proud to help support the K-5 STEAM Education Program as it continues to gain momentum year after year, creating a positive impact on every elementary student at Pine River.”

This cross-curricular approach allows students to develop skills that impact their literacy, math and scientific reasoning, but also their empathy, imagination, resilience and team-building.

The SET SEG Foundation is the philanthropic arm of SET SEG, a risk management organization serving Michigan public schools. The foundation is fueled by its mission to enable students to pursue enrichment opportunities that advance learning, leadership and civic responsibility by providing services, scholarships and grants directly to Michigan public schools and their students.

For more information about the SET SEG Foundation, visit setseg.org/foundation.

_{Release courtesy of Pine River Area Public Schools.}

Big Rapids standout Cole Haist is taking the next step in his basketball journey.

The senior guard announced Thursday via social media that he will continue his academic and athletic career at Davenport University.

“It just felt right,” Haist said. “The coaches were amazing on the visit, the campus is amazing and just the opportunity to compete at a high level.”

Haist leaves a lasting mark on the Cardinals program as just the fifth player in school history to reach the 1,000-point milestone. In his senior season, the point guard averaged more than 18 points per game to lead the team in scoring. He also showcased his all around game, averaging more than 4 assists per contest. Haist departs as a two-time all conference honoree.

Basketball has always been central to his life. Growing up around the game, he credits it with shaping his path and relationships.

“I mean, it is something I truly love,” Haist said. “My family has given me the opportunity to grow up around this awesome game. I have gotten the chance to grow and have relationships with great people through basketball. It’s taught me so many lessons outside of the game.”

Haist closes his chapter in Big Rapids as one of the program’s best to ever do it and now awaits his next chapter in Caledonia.

The Panthers went 14-15 last season and placed seventh in the GLIAC. Davenport won the GLIAC tournament as the Cinderella eight-seed in 2022.

_{Graphic courtesy of Cole Haist.}

On Friday, Apr. 10 , 2026, at approximately 2:45 a.m., deputies from the Mecosta County Sheriff's Office, Big Rapids Department of Public Safety, and Ferris State University Police responded to a single motor vehicle crash at 1127 Fuller Avenue near Hillcrest and Appleridge Apartments.

According to the wreck report, the accident occurred after a 19-year-old male, from Morley, drove to the end of Fuller Avenue and entered an unpaved road. The vehicle then struck a large boulder, rolled several times, and struck a tree.

The driver was ejected from the vehicle and pronounced dead at scene. The vehicle was also occupied by a 14-year-old male from Six Lakes, an 18-year-old male from Rockford, and 19-year-old male from Fremont. They were all taken to Corewell Hospital in Big Rapids with non-life threatening injuries. Alcohol is believed to be a factor.

Deputies were assisted by Big Rapids Fire, Big Rapids Rescue, Mecosta County EMS, Mid Michigan Medical Examiner's Office, and Meceola Central Dispatch.

Ferris State University shattered it's fundraising record for the annual One Day for Dawgs giving day, raising more than $500,000 to support students and programs across the university.

The 2026 event soared far above The Ferris Foundation's $300,000 goal with contributions from more than 1,730 donors with pledges ranging from $5 to $100,000.

“Bulldog nation stands behind our students and university,” said Brandi Behrenwald, Ferris State’s executive director of Alumni Relations and Annual Giving. “We are so grateful for this outpouring of generosity, in terms of the amount of money raised but also the number of donors. So many people and programs will benefit, removing obstacles to success and enhancing opportunities to build skills and leadership.”

Behrenwald said the Ferris State’s mission of providing a quality, transformative education to all resonates with many donors who want to have a positive impact on students and change lives.

Ferris State recently earned the prestigious “Opportunity University” designation by the Carnegie Classifications, recognizing the university is accessible to the people it serves, and that Bulldogs earn more as they start their careers compared to people graduating from peer institutions.

This year’s One Day for Dawgs event also featured a significant slate of matching and challenge gifts sponsored by corporate partners, alumni champions, and community leaders. Nearly $490,000 was raised during Wednesday’s event and additional gifts are being counted as checks arrive in the mail. Leaders are confident the final number will surpass $500,000. The previous record was just under $300,000.

Donors supported more than 100 total fundraising causes ranging from endowed student scholarships, academic programs, athletic teams, and others, all focused on supporting the Bulldog student experience.

The Ferris Foundation will announce challenge gift winners, allocate matching funds, and tally gift totals over the coming week before announcing the official final figure online at ferris.edu/oneday and on the Ferris State University social media pages.

_{Release and photo courtesy of Ferris State University.}

One of the top defensive linemen in Michigan has found his home.

Big Rapids High School’s Max Bollman is taking his talents to Oxford, Ohio, after committing to Miami University on Wednesday. Bollman becomes the first Cardinal to commit to a Division I NCAA football program since Braeden Childress (Central Michigan) in 2018.

According to Bollman, it was the coaching staff that stood out.

“Honestly, it was the people and the way it felt when I was there,” Bollman said. “The coaches made it feel real, the culture stood out, and it felt like the place I’m supposed to be. It felt like home.”

The 6-foot-2 Bollman was a force to be reckoned with for the Cardinals this past season. He recorded 13 sacks, 11 tackles for loss and 83 tackles and earned Division 4 all-state honors in his junior year. Bollman received more than 10 Division I college football offers but ultimately chose the RedHawks.

“It feels good for real,” Bollman said. “A lot of pressure is off now, and I can just lock in, keep working and get ready for what’s next.”

While Bollman hasn’t decided on a major yet, he aims to be as successful off the football field as on it.

“I just want to be successful, take care of my family and make the most out of every opportunity football gives me,” Bollman said.

The hard-working Big Rapids product with big goals has found his home in Oxford, Ohio.

The RedHawks went 7-7 last season and tied for second in MAC play. Miami has posted a winning season and earned a bowl appearance in six of the last seven seasons.

_{Graphic courtesy of Max Bollman.}

More than 100 people piled into the Peaks Event Center on Thursday morning to celebrate the Community Kickoff Breakfast.

The event served as an introduction for the newly re-formed Big Rapids Regional Chamber, led by President and CEO Sarah Dixon.

"Our community showed up in full force this morning, bringing incredible energy and enthusiasm,” Dixon said. “The room was electric as business and community partners gathered to reconnect, learn more about the Big Rapids Regional Chamber, and celebrate this exciting new chapter as we officially cut the ribbon and open our doors.”

Attendees included local business owners, Ferris State employees, local and state government officials, and community members. The event included breakfast and a keynote speech from Ferris State football head coach Tony Annese.

“We were honored to hear from Coach Tony Annese, whose insights on leadership, momentum, and building a community of champions align seamlessly with our mission to drive economic growth, foster meaningful connections, and create opportunities for collaboration and leadership,” Dixon said.

For more information on the Chamber, visit their Facebook page here: https://www.facebook.com/BRRegionalChamber.

The Michigan Convention of States Action Team will host a presentation Saturday, April 11, 2026, in Big Rapids.

The meeting will focus on Article V of the U.S. Constitution and will feature Bruce Finlayson, a regional captain for Convention of States Action.

"Our point is if you look at the constitution, the balance between the federal government and the states, as the constitution is written, is way out of balance," Finlayson said. "The states have lost their input, therefore the people of the states have their influence with their legistator."

The meeting will take place from 10 a.m. to noon in Founders Room 203 of the David L. Eisler Center at Ferris State University. The Convention of States is a grassroots, state-led movement that aims to call a convention of the states to propose amendments on term limits, fiscal restraints on the federal government and limits on its power.

“Article V is the second process for proposing amendments to the Constitution, such as term limits, fiscal responsibility and stopping federal government overreach," District Captain Laura Murphy said. “The more familiar process is through Congress, but the founders knew that power corrupts and put a provision in the Constitution to allow the states to call for a convention.”

For more information on the Convention of States, visit https://conventionofstates.com/.

With spring turkey season opening on Apr. 18 across Michigan, new rules and a new mandatory turkey harvest reporting requirement will be in effect.

Here are some more details from the Michigan DNR:

REPORTING A HARVEST

Starting this year, all successful turkey hunters must report their harvest within 72 hours of harvest or before transferring possession of the bird, whichever comes first. Harvests can be reported online via Michigan.gov/DNRHarvestReport or through the Michigan Department of Natural Resources Hunt Fish mobile app.

“Mandatory harvest reporting gives us a clearer picture of turkey harvest across the state and helps ensure sustainable turkey populations for the future,” said Adam Bump, the DNR's upland game bird specialist. “It also allows hunters to see near real-time harvest information as the season progresses.”

Hunters must use the unique license number printed on their paper kill tag or listed with their electronic kill tag (eHarvest tag) to report a harvest. Once the report is submitted, hunters will receive a confirmation number. Hunters using an electronic tag must also validate the harvest in the app immediately after harvest.

You can transport your own and another person’s lawfully taken game. You cannot transport or possess a turkey unless a validated kill tag is attached to the leg of the turkey or you have validated your eHarvest tag. You cannot destroy the identity or evidence of the sex of a turkey while in the field or when transported in a motor vehicle.

NEW MANAGMENT & LICENSE RULES

Another major change this year involves the number of turkey management units. The DNR has reduced the number of spring TMUs from 14 to three. In the Northern Lower Peninsula (Hunt 0134 in Unit NN), the season will run April 18-May 1 with a 18,000 license quota. This will be valid on public and private lands. There is also a statewide spring turkey hunt (Hunt 0234) from May 2-31 with unlimited licenses. This license allows hunters to pursue spring turkey across the majority of the state.

Leftover licenses are available for each spring turkey hunt period until the end of the respective period or until quotas are reached. Unlimited licenses are available for Hunt 0234 and Hunt 0301 through May 31. Check available licenses on the DNR’s Licenses & Permits webpage.

The mentored youth license is a license package that allows youth hunters 9 years old and younger to hunt turkey with a qualified mentor. The spring turkey license issued with the mentored youth license is valid for one bearded turkey in any open spring turkey management unit on public or private land.

In another change for the spring turkey season, hunters ages 10 to 16 may now purchase a spring turkey youth license until the end of the season on May 31. This license allows the harvest of one bearded turkey on public or private land within any open spring TMU and season dates. You must have permission from the landowner to hunt on private property. Youth licenses do not require an application.

Season dates, license quotas, harvest reporting requirements and additional details are available here: 2026 Spring Turkey Hunting Regulations Summary.

_{Release information and photo courtesy of Michigan DNR.}

The transition from being a student to a professional often happens through studies, but for Ferris State University’s education majors, it is happening within the Big Rapids community. 

Through cooperation with Big Rapids Public Schools, university students are stepping out of their lecture halls and into local classrooms, gaining hands-on experience prior to receiving their diplomas. 

The program, which places Ferris State students in the field as early as their freshman year, is designed to turn academic theory into practical classroom management. For many participants, early exposure is a vital confidence builder. 

“One of the things I value most is how quickly we are placed in the field,” Ferris State student Avery Sikorski said. “By my second semester, I was already tutoring a lower elementary student. Each semester after that, I was gradually given more responsibility, which allowed me to smoothly transition into larger roles within the classroom.” 

That transition has led several Ferris State students to Big Rapids Middle School. While many education majors begin their journey focused on younger children, the middle school placement offers a different kind of challenge. 

Ferris State’s School of Education in the College of Arts, Sciences, and Education places nine students in the building for an 80-hour advanced apprenticeship before student teaching internships in the fall.

“Being in a middle school setting has taught me valuable lessons, especially about student engagement,” Sikorski explained. “One of the biggest takeaways is that fifth graders still benefit from fun and engaging learning experiences. Before starting this placement, I felt intimidated by the middle school setting, but now I genuinely look forward to going each week.” 

This collaboration with BRMS creates a bridge between the university and the town, particularly for Ferris State athletes. For them, the classroom isn't just a place to teach, it’s a place to connect with their biggest fans and supporters. 

“In each school I enter, I already have connections with many students because I am a Ferris State athlete,” said Sikorski, who is on the soccer team. “This past fall, classes from Riverview and Brookside attended our soccer games. Seeing them come out to support us was amazing. They cheered so loudly I know it distracted the other team!” 

That visibility in the community transforms the Ferris students to role models. Bonding with the students on a level outside of academics has been impactful for the kids, and the Ferris students as well. 

 As these students wrap up their final hours of observation and instruction, they aren’t just leaving with a degree, but with a professional support system.

Between the mentorship of local teachers and the consistent observation by Ferris State professors, the program ensures that when these graduates finally take over their own classrooms, they aren't starting from scratch. 

“My professors have equipped me with the tools I need to be successful, and they’ve also become lifelong mentors,” Sikorski said. “I wouldn’t change my decision to pursue education at Ferris for anything. My experience has given me both the confidence and excitement to become an educator.” 

_{Release and photo courtesy of Ferris State University.}

Construction on the new Tommy’s Express Car Wash in Big Rapids is starting to take shape.

As of Wednesday, April 8, structural beams were being placed at the site on 1250 Perry Avenue. Initial reports and speculation indicate the car wash is expected to open later this summer.

"As soon as the site's Facebook page is available, they will begin posting the most recent updates there," said a Tommy's guest services respondent.

The 5,303-square-foot facility was approved by the Big Rapids Planning Commission in May 2025. Gen 3 Investments, a Big Rapids-based developer, is handling the project.

To follow the Tommy's Big Rapids Facebook page, visit here: https://www.facebook.com/TommysExpressBigRapids.