Listeners Club

Forgot Password

Not a Member? Sign up here!

News That Affects You Archives for 2022-11

Clare Co. woman sentenced to life in prison for quadruple murder

In Clare County, a woman who pled guilty earlier this year to murder charges was sentenced.

 

55-year-old Judy Boyer of Farwell was given life in prison.

 

She was given the sentence for the murders of four people in October of 2021 including her father, sister and two others at a home in downtown Clare.

 

Meanwhile, Ryan Patrick Beatty was previously charged with accessory after the fact to a felony, and one count of possessing a firearm while being a felon. He was accused of helping Boyer in hiding and trying to dispose of the 22-caliber long rifle used in the homicides.

 

The charges against Beatty have been dismissed.

2022 Giving Day in Mecosta County aims at raising money for area non-profits

We've had Black Friday, Small Business Saturday and Cyber Monday.

 

Today is Giving Tuesday, a day started in 2010 with the hopes of encouraging people to do good and contribute to non-profit organizations.

 

Locally, 25 non-profit organizations in Mecosta County are gathering at the Big Rapids Eagles Club today to participate in the Community Giving Day event!

 

Organizers say they raised $250,000 last year and they are hoping to double that number this year.

 

The event begins at 11am and runs until 6pm. 

Big Rapids Police to host 3rd Annual Season of Giving Gift Drive

The Big Rapids Police Department is hosting the third annual Season of Giving gift drive to benefit Eagle Village.


Eagle Village is a 681-acre campus in Hersey that serves hundreds of kids each year through residential treatment, adoption and foster care, short-term interventions, and specialized summer camps. In 2020 they had 110 kids in residential care, placed 62 kids in foster care, completed 20 successful adoptions, and had 225 kids either attend summer camps or complete Challenge Weekends. They have been doing this for over 53 years.


The Season of Giving Gift Drive was launched by the Big Rapids Police Department in 2020. With the
help of department members, residents, local businesses, and organizations, BRPD has donated more than 1000 gifts to Eagle Village. 


“We have been overwhelmed by the amount of support this community shows to the kids at Eagle
Village,” said Chief Danielle Haynes. “The department is extremely excited to collect gifts for them again and help give them the Christmas they deserve.”


The holiday gift drive will take place on Saturday, December 10th, from 9 a.m.- Noon at The Big Rapids Department of Public Safety, 435 N. Michigan Ave. Santa will be on-site to accept your donation and take pictures with you. We are holding this event in conjunction with Coffee With a Cop.

 

Feel free to come in and grab a cup of coffee or cocoa and say hello to your local officers.

 

This is a great opportunity to get to know us and support a great cause.

 

Please see the attached list of items that Eagle Village needs.

 

2022 Eagle Village Youth Christmas List


Bullet Journals and supplies, Gel Pens, Notebooks (not spiral bound)
Headphones, earbuds
Weighted Blankets
Body Pillows
Duffle Bags


Books – nature, adventure tales, heroic stories

 

Clothing
• Winter Gloves, Hats
• Fuzzy Socks
• Fun Socks
• Sweatshirts

 

Personal Hygiene Items
• Hairbrushes
• Hair Ties – Scrunchies, wraps
• Body Spray
• Lotion
• Nail Polish

 

Art Supplies
• Craft Kits
• Coloring Books
• Crayons
• Canvases
• Paint
• Paint Brushes
• Diamond Art
• Scrap Books
• Picture Books
• Sketch Pads (not spiral bound)
• Glue Sticks
• Playdough
• Stickers

 

Games
• Board Games
• Card Games
• Decks of Cards
• Puzzles
• Game Books


Sports Equipment
• Softball
• Volleyball
• Basketball
• Fishing Kits
• Sleds, Toboggans, Saucers
Tabletop games
• Air Hockey
• Ping Pong
• Foosball
• Basketball


Toys
• Dolls
• Stuffed Animals
• Toy Trucks
• Sand Equipment
• Flashlights
• Bubble lights – battery operated
• Kites

Nominations still being taken for Banished words/phrases list by LSSU

What words or expressions would you like to see banned and never heard again?

 

"No Worries." That ranked second in Lake Superior State University's annual list of Banished Words for misuse, overuse, and uselessness of communication for 2022. "At The End of the Day" came in third. But the most popular phrasing people nationwide and worldwide love to hate "Wait. What?" "That being said," "A new normal and the "Supply Chain" are also on the list of top ten contenders.

 

You have until Wednesday to submit your nominations for the banished words list for 2023. You can find information on the Lake Superior State University website.

 

The latest list will be announced on December 31st.

18-year old driver involved in one car accident in Colfax Twp. Sunday

An 18-year old driver was taken to the hospital Sunday late Sunday afternoon after a one vehicle accident in Mecosta County's Colfax Township.

 

Sheriff Deputies say it happened on 16 Mile near Mudd lake Rd, that's where the 18-year old driver rolled his car while attempting to miss a deer in the roadway. The driver was taken to CoreWell Health ER in Big Rapids with minor injuries.

 

Sheriff Miller and the Mecosta Co Sheriffs Deputies want to remind motorists to never swerve to miss animals, and to always wear your seatbelt.

MSP arrests suspect in stabbing incident in Mt. Pleasant

Michigan State Police are investigating a stabbing in Mount Pleasant and have a suspect in custody.

 

Troopers say they were called to the Jamestown Apartments Saturday night for a domestic situation.

 

Upon arrival, it was determined that an argument ensued between two brothers resulting in one brother allegedly stabbing the other brother and then leaving the scene.

 

The victim, a 42-year-old male from Mt. Pleasant was taken to the hospital with serious injuries.

 

The suspect, 44-year old Vandale Omar Greene was lodged in the Isabella County Jail. He was arraigned on charges of, Attempted Murder, Carrying a Dangerous Weapon with Unlawful Intent, and Carrying a Concealed Weapon.

State Fire Marshal offers safety tips to deep fry Thanksgiving turkey

The state fire marshal is urging Michigan residents to be mindful of fire safety while cooking this Thanksgiving.

 

He says portable propane fueled turkey fryers a popular and faster cooking method for your Thanksgiving turkey pose a considerable fire risk if not used correctly. Improperly deep-frying turkeys accounts for many preventable house and garage fires reported each year.

 

You should never use a portable deep fryer in a garage, on or under a deck, breezeway, porch or inside any structure and always use a flat surface away from flammable materials.

 

The fire marshal also encourages you to push the button to check and make sure you have working smoke alarms in your home.

Gov. Whitmer names Kyra Bolden to Michigan Supreme Court

Governor Gretchen Whitmer has chosen state Representative Kyra Harris Bolden to fill a seat on the Michigan Supreme Court, making her the first Black woman to serve on the state's high court.

 

Bolden will succeed Justice Bridget Mary McCormack, who revealed her plans in September to leave the court to become CEO of a New York based firm.

 

Whitmer described the 34-year-old Bolden as "passionate about the law." Bolden will be the youngest member of the Michigan Supreme Court and could hold a seat for more than three decades as justices can seek reelection until they reach the age of 70.

City of Big Rapids to submit grant applications for improvements to the area

The City of Big Rapids will move forward with its attempt to replace a 40-year old retaining wall on the Muskegon River.

 

On Monday, Commissioners approved to submit an application for a $1.5-million dollar grant. If selected, the grant would require separate $500,000 matches from the city of Big Rapids and the Big Rapids Housing Commission.

 

State officials would allow up to 200 feet of the retaining wall to be replaced. The total cost for the retaining wall is estimated at $2.5-million dollars. 

 

The City Commission also approved a lease agreement between the city and Duncan and Marissa Klussmann who own the train depot property on the eastside of town. The lease is for 25 years at $100 per year. Commissioners also approved a resolution to submit a SPARK Grant application for the train depot property. According to City Manager Mark Gifford, if selected, the grant would help fund Depot Park Trailhead improvements, including parking lot improvements adjacent to the depot. 

 

Gifford told commissioners that working through the lease negotiations with the Klussmann’s it is very clear that they are community minded and want their renovation project and the business ventures that will follow to compliment the Trail and Depot Park Trailhead Project. They believe that having the entire space as public parking will be of mutual benefit.

 

 

 

 

Weekly Reed City Police Blotter: 11/14-11/20

Monday…11/14
School liaison officer found a high school student in possession of THC in school grounds. Student was issued a citation.


Officer responded to an alleged child abuse. After investigation, no signs of abuse were founded.


Officer was dispatched to a noise complaint.


School liaison officer issued a citation for possession of a vape device.


Tuesday …11/15
Officer assisted a 47yr old man who had been the victim of a scam. The man sent gas money to a woman he met online to come and visit him. She then stated her car broke down on the way and she needed money for repairs. The scammer was asking for payment in gift cards.


Wednesday …11/16
School liaison officer responded to a report of a student talking about suicide. After investigation, officer found the student not to be a threat.


Officer took a report from a homeowner that found an arrow stuck on the side of his house. Upon
investigation it was determined to be accidental from a juvenile neighbor.


Thursday …11/17
Officers took a report of a parked vehicle being struck in the Ebels parking lot. The driver of an older tan pickup left the scene after striking the car. Anyone with information as to the driver and whereabouts of the pickup is asked to contact the Reed City Police.


Friday …11/18
Officers took a report of a two-car private property accident. There were no injuries and only minor damage.


Officer took a call for a vehicle that had run off the road into the ditch due to the weather.


Officer responded to a call regarding larceny of rental equipment that the renter failed return.


Officers arrested a 21-year-old woman on an outstanding warrant for possession of dangerous drugs. This stems from a traffic stop RCPD officers made in June of 2022.


Saturday …11/19
Officers arrested a 33 years old woman on an outstanding warrant for failing to appear in court.
While on patrol officers came across a damaged traffic sign that had been run over by a vehicle that had left the scene. The matter is under investigation.

 

Officers were dispatched to a domestic assault in progress. A 26-year-old woman was arrested following an investigation.


Sunday …11/20
Officers assisted the Osceola County Sheriff Department with an uncooperative intoxicated driver.
Officers took a report of a car vs deer accident. There were no injuries and minor damage to the car.
Officers assisted the Osceola County Sheriff Department in locating a stolen vehicle and the juvenile driver.

Mecosta Co. Sheriff's Blotter: Weekend

11/18

At around 1:00pm deputies responded to an address on Sunset Dr, Morton TWP. For court ordered pick up, transported male subject to SHBR for an eval.

 

At around 6:49pm deputies responded to a littering complaint on S Cass St, Aetna TWP. Male caller stated he saw a  subject in a vehicle, throw a bag of garbage into the parking lot.

 

Calls for service 5

Traffic accidents 3

 

11/19

At 6:10pm, deputies responded to a juvenile runaway complaint on 10th Ave,  Sheridan TWP. Juvenile ran away from home at 1530, is known to go to Barryton and hitch a ride. Deputies  were unable to locate him. Last time he ran away he was found in Lake Isabella. Isabella county was notified.

 

Calls for service 3

Traffic accidents 6

 

11/20

At 7:06pm, deputies responded to a domestic complaint,  at a residence on 16 Mile rd., Big Rapids TWP. Male Caller was being harassed by his son. Male  caller got upset about it and decided to confront his son. While doing so he was yelling and pushed him onto the couch. Male caller was arrested for warrant out of St. Johns. TOT pros.

 

At 6:12pm, deputies responded to a fraud complaint, at a business in Big Rapids TWP. An unknown individual made a transaction with counterfeit 20 dollar bill. Also used debit card.

 

At 3:51pm, deputies responded to a B&E complaint, on Water St,  Green TWP. Female caller reported male subject breaking into her garage. Deputies made contact with male subject and he stated he has been staying there for three weeks and wanted to get his stuff. Female caller stated he has never lived there and insisted that he had a gun. No gun found on him or seen in security footage of her residence.

 

At 7:22pm, deputies handled an abuse complaint in Big Rapids TWP. Female complainant believed that her ex-boyfriend abused their daughter. Made contact with the Childs father, he stated that he was disciplining his daughter and tapped her on the face. No injury on daughter. 

 

At 5:24pm, deputies responded to an assault complaint,  COLFAX TWP.  Male caller reported that two of his sons, who were 8 and 10, had been assaulted at a birthday party when 20 yr old Female, forcefully took small balls from the kids.  Female said they threw the balls too close to a baby and then started throwing the balls at her.  Report to be sent to PAO for review.

 

At 6:04pm, deputies responded to an MDOP complaint, 19m/35th  Fork TWP.    Male subject caused a 2-vehicle accident and was arrested for OWI by MSP.  He then became violent and damaged one of the MSP patrol cars.  Deputies were sent to assist and put him in a patrol vehicle with a cage.  Male subject was kicking the interior of deputies vehicle while on scene and enroute to the hospital for a blood draw.  Male subject was lodged on MSP charges.  Deputies will send a report to PAO for attempted MDOP to the county unit.  City PD assisted at the hospital with a blood draw.

 

Calls for service 3

Rates for DTE customers are going up

Utility bills will be going up for more than two million DTE Energy customers.

 

The Michigan Public Service Commission Friday giving DTE authorization to implement a $30.5-million-dollar rate increase to help pay for investments in the distribution and generation systems.

 

DTE was asking for a $388-million-dollar increase.

 

Most customers will see their bills go up by less than a dollar each month.

Big Rapids City Commissioners meet for last time in November

The Big Rapids City Commission meets for the second time in as many weeks tonight to conduct city business.

 

On the agenda during study session, City Attorney Eric Williams will discuss the city's tax abatement policy, there will be a Mechanic Street update and an update on the city's strategic planning.

 

Meanwhile during general business, commissioners will act on resolutions including authorizing an agreement between Big Rapids and Reed City for information technology, a resolution authorizing a deer cull, a resolution to submit an grant application for depot park project.

 

The meeting begins at 6:30pm at City Hall.

 

For a full list of items on the agenda scroll down: 

 

President Pink Reflects on 'Whirlwind' first 100 days at Ferris State University

They say life comes at you fast. Just past his first 100 days, marked on Oct. 19, 2022, as president of Ferris State University, Bill Pink can now attest to that after a whirlwind that began on Monday, July 11, 2022 – his first official day as president.

 

Realistically, it started when Board of Trustees chair Amna P. Seibold announced him as the “selected finalist” to become president on March 28. Then, the momentum picked up steam on May 6 as the entire Board of Trustees officially and unanimously voted its approval. From there, things shifted into overdrive on July 11, the day a group of 100-plus students, faculty, staff, community members and alums welcomed him outside the Timme Center for Student Services, a building that includes his office.

 

“Whirlwind is a good description,” Pink said. “These first hundred days have been full, and I say full because I have found myself doing so much in working not only on understanding and learning more about the university but digging deeper. I have been learning about all facets of our internal and external processes, our operations, and perceptions of Ferris State University.”

 

From day one, Pink has been a president of the people. He has been making presentations, of course, but he has taken far more joy in listening to and digesting the experiences of the students, faculty, staff and community members he encounters daily – on and off campus. Whether he is working on the clock, visiting downtown Big Rapids or elsewhere in Mecosta County for a bite to eat, a coffee or a friendly chat, the new president relishes these interactions.

 

“Some of the early work on campus has been getting out and seeing people, meeting people – the folks who are our faculty and staff. We are having some great conversations as I learn more and more about Ferris,” Pink said. “The biggest joy, I would say, has been spending time with our students. The way we have engaged our students, whether it be from the beginning with meeting RAs (resident advisors) before the semester started or on the cart and helping our students during move-in days, was fun.”

 

It did not stop there.

 

“I enjoyed riding around on a cart and giving rides to some of our students to help them get to their classes,” Pink said. “Of course, I asked them all kinds of questions to find out more about them – who they are, where they came from, what degree they’re pursuing, what they want to do with it after graduation and where they want to go.

 

Many students did not leave the conversation empty-handed, “I would end some of these conversations by handing them a Starbucks gift card to reward them for enduring my questions.”

 

Pink has had a lot of Ferris firsts, including experiencing Bulldog Beginnings, which includes Board of Trustees meetings and Founders’ Day, an annual extravaganza on the Robinson Quad on the first Thursday of the academic year. The event, which features games, prizes, giveaways, an ice cream social and more, is part of annually honoring founders Woodridge and Helen Ferris. His first at Ferris included his inauguration over two days, Oct. 6-7, and the Link with Pink Tour that took him off campus and into communities across the state of Michigan.

 

“The Link with Pink events were really, really awesome,” he said. “We had quite a few alumni show up and had excellent conversations. I had an opportunity to hear their Ferris story. I also had opportunities to chat with them about where we’re going and my vision for Ferris. I want to get our alumni excited about where their university is going while encouraging them to help spread the word.”

 

During the tour, Pink noted opportunities to visit with several community college presidents – including some he knew from his time at GRCC. Some showed up at the event, while others he saw when he had opportunities to arrive early in these communities where Ferris has longstanding relationships and partnerships.

 

“We were able to talk about where our relationship is now and where we can go in the future,” Pink said. “Most of them I knew from my previous job. Many of these are also friendship visits.”

Link with Pink also included opportunities to strengthen relationships in statewide regions critical to Ferris’ success.

 

“One of the things I have been talking about on these Link with Pink Tours is the work that we need to do not only here in Big Rapids, but what we need to do in Grand Rapids, which is our second largest footprint, as a University, and the work that we need to do in the city of Detroit,” Pink said. “I believe we have a strong opportunity for Ferris with our unique programming in the city of Detroit and Southeast Michigan as a region.”

 

Pink has viewed these first 100 days as akin to an engagement, listening and observing tour that has included meeting with Ferris student-athletes, coaches, and fans while attending on-campus sporting events. Having accommodated dozens of media interviews, photo and video requests, Pink’s energy is still running high – as is his desire to learn.

 

“I always like to go through the first year and see everything being done. But as I go through, I also look for opportunities to add to what is currently being done,” he said. “I like and encourage people to think about how we can begin to adjust some things to make what we’re doing more impactful for people. During this, it has been great learning Ferris’ traditions. During these first 100 days, I am looking at everything and enjoying the moment while also looking at it with an eye on if there are things we can improve moving forward.”

 

Pink was already pondering the next 100 days and beyond – a stretch that includes more firsts: The Ferris Foundation for Excellence Benefit on Friday, Nov. 4, and presiding over his first commencement ceremonies on Saturday, Dec. 17.

 

“I feel like I’ve learned some things about where we are as a university, locally and statewide,” he said. “That has given me a good sense of where I think we need to go.”

 

Of special note, during Pink’s first 100 days, was the Gotion announcement of a proposed battery component manufacturing facility in Big Rapids, a $2.364 billion investment in the state of Michigan. Pink actively participated in an Oct. 5 announcement, as a warm-up speaker at the Woodbridge N. Ferris Building on the campus of Ferris’ Kendall College of Art and Design in Grand Rapids, that featured remarks delivered by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer.

 

“We’ll have to keep a strong, close eye on that opportunity,” Pink said. “We will try our best, and I will try my best in my position to get this over the finish line for the people in the Big Rapids region.”

Also, locally, he has continued to champion causes that are important to him and others, such as the United Way.

 

“As a board member for the United Way, actually even as the board chair, I am so much of a supporter and just a champion and cheerleader for the United Way,” said Pink, who is chair of the Heart of West Michigan United Way’s Board of Directors and who addressed local members of the United Way of Mecosta and Osceola counties in late September at Ferris.  

 

In 100-plus days on the job, Pink has felt the Ferris pride but wants more.

 

“A major part of my message is to have pride in your university,” he said. “I think it is so important if you work here, if you’re a student, or an alum – that you have pride in this institution. We’re not perfect, and we have a lot to work on, but we’re doing a lot of things well and have been for over 130 years.”

 

Pink added, “Tell people your Ferris State University story with pride. Many good things have happened in these doors and on this campus, and there are many good things ahead for Ferris State University.”

Reed City Police Weekly Blotter

Monday…11/7
Officer was dispatched to a home for an out-of-control juvenile, after investigation, the juvenile was taken to the hospital, for mental health assistance, by his father.


School liaison officer was asked to assist with a student that walked away from school property. The student returned to school without any issues.


Officer arrested a 31yr old female that had a warrant for Bond violation, she was taken to County Jail and lodged without any issues.


School liaison officer responded to the Reed City Middle School for a student found in possession of a vape. A citation was issued.


Officer was dispatched to a death investigation. The preliminary investigation indicates a suicide, no foul played is suspected.


Tuesday …11/8
Officer was dispatched to a suspicious situation regarding an unknown man knocking on doors in an
apartment complex asking people for help with his bank paperwork. After patrolling the area, the man was not found.


School liaison officer was called to the Middle School regarding an assault. After investigation, the officer found the assault to be unfounded.


School liaison officer found two male students in possession of a vape device in the Reed City High School bathroom. A citation was issued.


Wednesday …11/9
Officer was dispatched to an accident car versus deer. The vehicle sustained some damage. No injuries were reported


School liaison officer responded to the Reed City High School for a suspected high schooler under the influence of alcohol. A citation was issued and the student was turned over to parents.


Officers were dispatched to check the well being of a resident that had not been seen or heard from recently. It was determined the individual had moved out of the residence.


Thursday …11/10
Officer responded to a call about a possible child neglect, the person reported that the child was traveling in a vehicle without proper seatbelt.


Officer responded to a call from a mother that could not find her 2 younger kids. After investigating, the kids had gone to the High School to wait for their older sister. Kids were found safe.

 

Friday …11/11
Officer responded to a call in regards to a family dispute. No issues.


Officer responded to an incident of car vs deer. The vehicle had to be towed away. No injuries were reported.


The School liaison officer seized a marijuana vape. A citation was issued to the juvenile.


Saturday …11/12
Officer responded to a call of an irate customer at a local store. Suspect was gone upon officer arrival. Under investigation.

Mecosta County woman wins $1 million Powerball prize from the Michigan Lottery

Beginner’s luck proved true for a Mecosta County woman who won a $1 million Powerball prize her first time ever playing.

 

Joni Thompson, of Stanwood, matched the five white balls in the Nov. 8 drawing to win the big prize: 10-33-41-47-56. She bought her winning ticket at Country Corner Supermarket, located at 10039 Buchanan Road in Stanwood. Stanwood is about 35 miles west of Mount Pleasant.

 

“I’d never played Powerball before, but I decided to purchase a ticket after seeing the jackpot was over $1 billion,” said Thompson. “After the drawing, I saw a social media post about a $1 million prize being won in Mecosta county, so went to the Lottery site to write down the winning numbers and then checked my ticket.

 

“When I realized I‘d matched five numbers and was the big winner, I started hyperventilating, screaming, and crying! I had my son scan my ticket on his Lottery app to make sure I was reading it right. It’s hard to describe what it feels like to win $1 million; I am still speechless!”

 

Thompson, 54, recently visited Lottery headquarters to claim her prize. She plans to use her winnings to build her new business and then save the remainder.

 

The Powerball jackpot was last won on Nov. 8. One ticket bought in California won the world record $2.04 billion jackpot. The current jackpot stands at $93 million.

 

Powerball plays may be purchased for $2 each at Lottery retailers across the state and online at MichiganLottery.com. A “Power Play” option that multiplies non-jackpot prizes by up to 10 times to a maximum of $2 million may be added to any Powerball play for only $1. For an additional $1 per play, Double Play may be added to a Powerball ticket, giving players a second chance to win up to $10 million in the nightly Double Play drawing.

Funding secured for new Ferris Early Learning Center

A big boost is on the way for the Early Learning Center on Ferris State’s campus.

 

After securing a set of funds over two million dollars through the CCAMPIS grant application, the group will be able to make many beneficial gains. This includes receiving subsidization for student parent childcare costs.said.


With the grant also allows a new opportunity to hire more staff, including a new supporting position the center has never had before: a Family Support Specialist.


“This person's role would be to support those students’ families and help them connect with resources,” Johnson said.


The current Early Learning Center is located on the west side of campus attached to the heavily utilized Bishop Hall. With the former dorm and office building set to be demolished in the near future, the center will be receiving a new, 80-person capacity building located directly next to their old building that could hold 59. According to Johnson, the organization is very grateful to be receiving the home after enduring the tough economic challenges laid over from the COVID-19 pandemic.


“We’re in the midst of breaking ground Friday the 18th. We’ve been very luck to receive the state
stabilization grants over the past year, so that has helped keep our operation going.”


This new funding, along with more money coming from the state of Michigan, will help the center
tremendously towards their goal of supporting college and community student parents with the best
resource possible.


“Our primary focus is to support them by providing their children with quality childcare experiences, so that they can concentrate on their studies and degree completion,” Johnson said. “We also are a lab site for some of the early childhood programs on campus.”

Big Rapids officials discuss replacing retaining wall on Muskegon River

The City of Big Rapids is gathering information on how to move forward with a plan to replace an aging retaining wall on the Muskegon River near the Big Rapids Housing Commission. 

 

During a meeting earlier this week, Public Works Director Heather Bowman made a presentation to Big Rapids City Commission members discussing findings of a study done by engineering firm Prein & Newhof.

 

The wall built in 1974, to stop erosion of land on the Muskegon River near the housing commission property.

 

         (Before retaining wall in 1973) 

 

Bowman told commissioners over the last ten years city officials have been discussing the structure status of the retaining wall due to safety concerns and ice jams in the location accross from the Big Rapids Middle School.

 

Bowman told commissioners that City Manager Mark Gifford and herself have been in discussions with state officials at the Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy on what type of permit they need, she said two months ago EGLE officials told her that project could move forward in a minor project category which would allow construction crews to put a new retaining wall in front of the existing one but no more than 200 feet. 

 

(Wall in 2015)

 

The project cost to put in a new retaining wall is estimated at $2.5 million dollars. 

 

    (Wall in 2021)

 

A short time later, officials from Prein & Newhof came across a grant of $1.5 million dollars, Bowman said at the next city commission meeting they will ask commissioners to approve a resolution to apply for that grant. If Big Rapids is selected for the grant the city would have to contribute $500,000 and the housing commission would have to contribute $500,000 as well. The grant application is due at the end of this month. 

 

Mark Sochocki, of the Big Rapids Housing Commission told the city commission they are on board and that he and Gifford have been trying to figure out a way to fix this issue for years and now is the time to do it with this grant.

 

If this project moves forward,  Eric Seguin with Prein and Newhof said they will drive the sheet paneling down further and work on the slopes to reinforce them to make sure the retaining wall lasts longer. 

 

The next city commission meeting is Nov. 21st at 6:30pm at City Hall in Big Rapids. 

 

  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

Big Rapids appoints census recount committee

The City of Big Rapids will move forward to determine if there is a need to conduct a census recount due to a 27% population decline recorded in the 2020 census.

 

City Officials say because of the population decline, Big Rapids receives around $500,000 less per year in revenue sharing from the state.

 

In a letter to the City Commission, City Manager Mark Gifford said there are many questions regarding a recount. Some of the questions are logistical, process, deadline, costs. Some of the questions require researching the outcomes from 2020 to determine potential flaws that impacted our population decline.

 

The City Commission approved a resolution on Monday to appoint a recount committee with various members of the community as well as city officials.

New executive director leads Open Arms Child Advocacy Center

Open Arms Child Advocacy Center has a new executive director to lead the organization’s efforts to help fight child abuse and neglect in Newaygo, Mecosta, Osceola and Lake counties.

 

After her appointment in late summer, Laura Britting is already ramping up efforts to strengthen relationships in OACAC’s four-county service area. A Lake County resident with deep experience in leading nonprofit community organizations, Britting is also building a robust and sustainable program to help develop and grow OACAC’s financial and other resources.

 

“I am truly honored to serve families in Newaygo, Mecosta, Osceola and Lake counties so we can help children who have been abused and neglected begin the journey toward hope and healing,” Britting said. “I am grateful for the warm welcome I’ve received from everyone, from community partners to law enforcement to health and human service agencies at every level, and inspired by their deep commitment to keeping children safe and healthy so they can thrive. I’m excited to lead Open Arms Child Advocacy Center and our team of compassionate, skilled and dedicated professionals and build on the vital work we do.”

 

Britting has served as an administrator and executive director at an assisted living facility in Ludington, and led Hope Network’s neuro-rehabilitation program, as well as other service and wellness programs throughout West Michigan. She lives in Baldwin with her family.

 

“Open Arms Child Advocacy Center is thrilled to welcome Laura Britting and see her already put her extensive skills and experiences to work strengthening our organization,” OACAC board chairwoman Wendy Samuels said. “From Day One, Laura put her energy and talents focusing on key areas that can help OACAC better serve families in our communities. Laura will be an invaluable asset in our work to help families and children confront the trauma of abuse and neglect, find justice and achieve healing.”

 

Through October 2022, OACAC provided services that included 175 forensic interviews of child victims of abuse and neglect. OACAC also provided support for 175 caregivers and nearly 175 medical referrals. Serving Newaygo, Mecosta, Osceola and Lake counties, OACAC is headquartered at the newly opened Center for Hope and Healing together with the Newaygo County Center for the Prevention of Child Abuse and Neglect, located right off M-37 at 601 North Evergreen Drive in White Cloud. The Center for Hope and Healing was officially opened in August and features state-of-the-art resources in a facility designed to maximize safety, comfort and privacy.

Who will lead the Michigan GOP following Mid-Term Election?

The race is on to lead a fractured republican party in Michigan.

 

State Republicans are still licking their wounds from last week's election rout and have been pointing fingers at each other. Now it seems a number of the candidates who lost last week think they could do a better job running the state party.

 

Failed gubernatorial candidate Tudor Dixon said she's considering a bid, claiming others have asked her to run for the leadership spot.

 

Former Detroit Police Chief James Craig, who was disqualified in his bid for Governor, flirted with the idea but has quickly retreated.

 

Now the failed candidate for attorney general, Matthew DePerno, has announced his intention to run. DePerno is a 2020 election denier, something political observers say was a turnoff to voters this November.

 

So its unclear if that's the direction the state party wants to go in. But the direction of the party is unclear as it appears in disarray.

 

The current chair is not seeking another term and the party blamed the candidates, specifically Tudor Dixon, for the republican losses statewide. Something she has disputed.

Walmart agrees to pay $3.1 billion in opioid settlement

Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel has reached a $3.1-billion dollar settlement with Walmart to resolve allegations that the company contributed to the opioid crisis by failing to appropriately oversee the dispensing of opioids at its stores.

 

The settlement will require significant improvements in how Walmart's pharmacies handle opioids.

 

The $3.1 billion dollars will be divided by states that sign on to the settlement, local governments, and tribes.

 

The money must be used to provide treatment and recovery services to people struggling with an opioid addiction.

Mecosta Co. Sheriff Dept. Blotter: 11/13

At 1:57am,  deputies responded to a domestic call at a residence on 5 Mile Road , Deerfield TWP. Female caller reported she was punched in the face by her boyfriend. The male was arrested for domestic assault.

 

At 2:21am, deputies responded to a disorderly complaint at an address on Northland Dr, Big Rapids TWP. A female and male were found to be verbally arguing. female was found to be on probation for a previous domestic between the two. Both parties had been drinking. Female was lodged for probation violation.

 

At 6:37am, deputies responded to a personal injury traffic accident on 6 Mile/ 40th Ave Millbrook TWP. , 2005 Chevy Trailblazer driven by female drove off the road when she swerved to avoid an unknown Chevy pickup truck. The Trailblazer went off the roadway and struck a tree. Female driver conveyed to Spectrum Hospital for treatment.

 

At 8:35am, deputies responded to a residence in Hinton TWP., for an MDOP complaint. Female caller had sugar put into the gas tank of her 2008 Chrysler Sebring. The vehicle also had chewed up food spit up on the inside. Attempted to obtain fingerprints. Caller gave a list of possible suspects. Interviews not yet complete.

 

At 1:42pm, deputies responded to an address on Cass St,  Aetna TWP. For a larceny complaint. Male caller had both sideview mirrors cut off his 2007 Chevy C4500 work vehicle and stolen. Caller is in the process of reviewing video to see if the incident was captured.

 

Car/Deer Accidents 6

Calls for Service 3

Dixon to make a run to be GOP Chair?

The Midterm Elections wrapped up less than a week ago and Republican gubernatorial candidate Tudor Dixon is announcing a potential run for another political seat.

 

In a statement Saturday-- Dixon said she's saying she's considering a run for State GOP Party Chair.

 

She said in the statement that multiple people reached out to her and encouraged her to run.

 

She said she believes in a bright future for Michigan-- and will announce her final plans in the coming days.

MSP investigating shooting on Friday in Newaygo Co.

On Friday, Troopers from the MSP Hart Post investigated a shooting death at 80th and Sleeper in Newaygo County.

 

Despite rumors circulating on social media Friday afternoon, Michigan State Police say there was no threat to the community.

 

They say based on preliminary findings it is believed that the victim died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

Weidman man dies in two vehicle crash in Isabella Co.

A 31-year old Weidman man is dead following a two vehicle crash involving a semi-truck.

 

Isabella County Sheriff Michael Main says a semi truck going eastbound in Sherman Township failed to stop at an intersection and collided with a car late Wednesday afternoon.

 

The driver of the car, a 31-year-old man from Weidman, was killed. A 49-year-old man from Freeland was taken to the hospital .

GOP Chief of Staff blames Tudor Dixon for losses in memo

A memo from the Michigan Republican Party blames gubernatorial candidate Tudor Dixon for Tuesday's election losses.

 

Chief of Staff Paul Cordes writes Dixon failed to keep the Governor's race close enough for other Republicans and cost the party in close House and Senate races. The memo says there were more ads on transgender sports than inflation and gas prices that could have swayed independent voters. Cordes also says middle of the road voters didn't like "what Dixon was selling."

 

For her part, Dixon said Republican Party leadership fought against her every step of the way and put the entire ticket at risk. Dixon said the party needs fresh leadership.

 

 

$1 million dollar Powerball ticket sold in Stanwood

Only one person in California took home the record-breaking $2 billion Powerball prize drawn Tuesday morning, but someone in or near Stanwood in Mecosta County won $1 million in the drawing.

 

The winning ticket was sold at Country Corner Supermarket, in Stanwood.

 

The $1 million winner matched the five white balls but not the Powerball. The winning numbers were 10, 33, 41, 47, 56 and Powerball 10.

 

According to the Powerball website, 22 tickets across the country won the $1 million consolation prize.

Local Election Results

As votes are still being counted in the bigger statewide races in Michigan, official results are in for a couple of local proposals.  

 

Residents in Big Rapids Township said YES to the Big Rapids Township Library proposal which would levy 0.2 mill for six years to help fund library services for the township.

 

Residents in Wheatland Township said NO to a Marijuana ordinance proposal that would have allowed two adult use facilities and two grow facilities.

 

Also  t he Mecosta County Clerk's Office reports Jeffery Godfrrey, Shavon Jane and Kevin Tucci have been election to the Big Rapids Pubic School Board by residents on Tuesday.

 

Residents in the Chippewa Hills School District voted for Amanda Cornell, Sherry Anderson, Tony Gibson and Lionel Mckenzie to their school board.

 

Finally, residents in the Morley-Stanwood School district voted for Randall LaPreze, Michelle Frisbie. Greg Babbitt and Mary L. Engelsman.

Dixon conceeds race to Whitmer

Governor Gretchen Whitmer has won another term in office, defeating Republican challenger Tudor Dixon. Dixon conceded the race this moring, saying "Michigan's future rests on not elected officials or government, but all of us."  

 

In the race for State Attorney General, incumbent Dana Nessel leads her Republican challenger Matt DePerno 53 percent to 45 percent with 93 percent of the votes counted

 

Incumbent Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson declared victory over Republican challenger Kristina Karamo late last night. Benson's 55 percent of the vote leads Karamo's 42 with 93 percent of votes counted. Karamo has not conceded the race, taking to Twitter, accusing Ann Arbor and several cities in Oakland County of election violations.

 

In the 2nd District US House race Republican incumbent John Moolanaar is projected to win his seat again against democratic challenger Jerry Hillard. 64-34 percent.

 

All three ballot proposals have been PASSED by Michigan voters. Proposal one will limit terms in the state legislature to 12 years and require public financial disclosure reports by legislators and other state officers. 65 percent of voters approved the measure. Proposal two will give voters the right to verify their identity with photo ID or signed statement, provide the right to vote absentee in all elections, require state funded absentee ballot drop boxes, and more. It was approved by 59 percent of voters. Finally, proposal three will amend the state constitution to establish the individual right to reproductive freedom -- including right to make all decisions about pregnancy and abortion. 56 percent of voters passed the measure.

Election Day is here!

It's Election Day here in Mecosta County, along with voting on the next Governor and three important proposals, residents will also be help decide on a number of contested races including the 2nd Congressional District, the 100th District State House seat, the 34th District State Senate seat.

 

Local voters will also decide on a number of local proposals including the library millage renewal proposition in Big Rapids Township and a marijuana ordinance proposal in Wheatland Township.

 

Finally, depending on the district you live, residents will be deciding on members of their local school board including, Big Rapids, Chippewa Hills, and Morley-Stanwood.

 

The polls open 7am this morning and close at 8pm tonight.

Election Guide 2022: What is Proposal 1,2 & 3?

On the eve of the Novemeber Mid-Term and Gubernatorial Elections, Big Rapids Daily News compiled the ballot language for prop1,2 and 3 so voters can be informed before they head to the ballot booth. 

 

What is Proposal 1?

 

A proposal to amend the state constitution to require annual public financial disclosure reports by legislators and other state officers and change state legislator term limit to 12 total years in legislature

This proposed constitutional amendment would:

  • Require members of legislature, governor, lieutenant governor, secretary of state, and attorney general file annual public financial disclosure reports after 2023, including assets, liabilities, income sources, future employment agreements, gifts, travel reimbursements, and positions held in organizations except religious, social, and political organizations.
  • Require legislature implement but not limit or restrict reporting requirements.
  • Replace current term limits for state representatives and state senators with a 12-year total limit in any combination between house and senate, except a person elected to senate in 2022 may be elected the number of times allowed when that person became a candidate.

 

What is Proposal 2? 

 

A proposal to amend the state constitution to add provisions regarding elections.

This proposed constitutional amendment would:

  • Recognize fundamental right to vote without harassing conduct;
  • Require military or overseas ballots be counted if postmarked by election day;
  • Provide voter right to verify identity with photo ID or signed statement;
  • Provide voter right to single application to vote absentee in all elections;
  • Require state-funded absentee-ballot drop boxes, and postage for absentee applications and ballots;
  • Provide that only election officials may conduct post-election audits;
  • Require nine days of early in-person voting;
  • Allow donations to fund elections, which must be disclosed;
  • Require canvass boards certify election results based only on the official records of votes cast.

 

What is Proposal 3?

 

A proposal to amend the state constitution to establish new individual right to reproductive freedom, including right to make all decisions about pregnancy and abortion; allow state to regulate abortion in some cases; and forbid prosecution of individuals exercising established right. 

 

This proposed constitutional amendment would:

  • Establish new individual right to reproductive freedom, including right to make and carry out all decisions about pregnancy, such as prenatal care, childbirth, postpartum care, contraception, sterilization, abortion, miscarriage management, and infertility;
  • Allow state to regulate abortion after fetal viability, but not prohibit if medically needed to protect a patient’s life or physical or mental health;
  • Forbid state discrimination in enforcement of this right; prohibit prosecution of an individual, or a person helping a pregnant individual, for exercising rights established by this amendment;
  • Invalidate state laws conflicting with this amendment.

For more detailed explainations of these proposals, CLICK HERE

Sheriff's Corner: Challenging time for law enforcement and education systems in current climate

As election day approaches, I was reminded this past week how far those in law enforcement and our education system are falling behind in Michigan, and a large portion of our nation. Law enforcement agencies continue to struggle with recruitment, retention, and a stigma of incompetence that is the focus of certain media groups. There continues to be a lot of noise being promoted by people on our shortcomings, specifically a few instances of bad decisions by law enforcement officers. I ask that everyone put your ear to the ground and look at the solid and honorable job our law enforcement and educators are doing for the safety and well-being of you and your families. 

 

Governor Whitmer has recently appropriated for law enforcement to get more officers in the field. She signed three bipartisan bills on September 27th . Although appreciative, I question the timeframe of this information coming forth, wondering if it isn’t some ploy on her part to take attention away from the lack of a relationship and support, she and other members of our state government have had with law enforcement during her tenure in office.

 

This is a challenging time in law enforcement and our education systems. Our crime rate is rising with thefts and violent crimes being a direct result of the drug problem we are incurring in many
communities in the State of Michigan, such as ours. Our State is 40 th in the country when it comes to the quality of education we provide to our students. You add the fact that there are 1,000 officers
statewide in the last two years who departed from the profession mid-career. This, and the lack of
quality applicants in the teaching and law enforcement fields, you understand where a change is needed in the way we think about these two professions and the importance they have to our security and a quality future.

 

Our education system is facing a crisis, across all the different academic lines and what the educators
do, from teaching math, dealing with the mental health of our children, to managing the classrooms
they teach in and the buildings and playgrounds where the children learn and play. Being involved in
the schools like I have in the past, I am fully aware of the pressure and problems that come with it and what our administrators, teachers and students who walk the halls of our education system are feeling. There is an unprecedented level of stress that all are feeling in their daily lives.

 

The remote learning, and disruptions, which were the result of the pandemic have left our students
academically behind, and in some cases emotionally scarred. The staff at our schools are dealing with a much larger amount of behavior problems and an inability to focus in class, among other issues that they will be struggling with in the years to come.


An example of the academic decline we are seeing was the results of the nationally administered
assessment call i-Ready, which tested students three times a year in reading and math. Third grade
students were 38 percent below grade level in reading, compared with the 31 percent historically. In
math, 39 percent of students were below grade level, vs. 29 percent historically.

 

Adding to the problems with learning is the fact that a lot of our schools are short-staffed. There is a
shortage of substitute teachers to assist when a teacher is not available. A continuing problem has also been a shortage of bus drivers. You are finding districts forcing to double up on routes due to these shortages.

 

A lot of this has to do with the stigma teaching and law enforcement have in our society and the
criticism each receives on the job they are doing. More so, it is how far each is behind in being
financially supported for the jobs they do.


In regards to law enforcement, I can tell you agencies in our profession need to get back to some form of a pension program. I have written about this in the past. It became even more evident to me in the past year. Over a weekend in April, after spending $70 for a family dinner, putting $80 in gas into my car and then getting my quarterly retirement statement from the city and seeing it lose a substantial amount of money, I became frustrated with the state of our economy and concerned with how much longer some of my friends in law enforcement would have to work so they were financially stable to retire. Are we really wanting to see law enforcement officers working to protect and serve us into their 60’s? This is not an older person’s profession. This continued to be a reminder to me when seeing a political cartoon with a child trick or treating in a trash can at an older lady’s doorstep. It reads, “A trash can? No, I’m your 401K….”

 

Now is the time to begin looking at a tax credit for those 55-65 years of age to assist those who have had long careers in law enforcement and education in their retirement years. It is time to have incentives to recruit, retain and make the later years in life a time where these people can look back with pride on the jobs they had and look forward to living their later years comfortably.

 

Grandville man seriously injured following motorcycle crash

A motorcyclist suffered serious injuries following a two vehicle crash Thursday in Aetna Township.

 

The Mecosta County Sheriff's Office says once deputies were on scene it was determined, a 35-year old man from Grandville was traveling northbound on Northland Dr. on a motorcycle when he was passing a line of vehicles on the left in a no passing zone. 

 

At the front of the line of vehicles was a pickup truck driven by a 30-year old man out of Morley turning left into the Sunoco gas station.  The motorcycle attempted to stop however he was not able to and hit the Morley man's truck. 

 

The Grandville man was not wearing at helmet at the time of the crash and received serious but non life threatening injuries and was transported to Butterworth hospital for treatment.

Fall back this Sunday!

It's time to fall back into an extra hour of sleep this Sunday but before the time change, the Michigan Department of Transportation wants to remind drivers to focus on safe driving as the winter nears.

 

According to MDOT, the most dangerous time of the day for pedestrians is the first hour of darkness following the time change where they are more at risk of serious injury from a crash.

 

Over 6,000 pedestrians died in the U-S in 2020.

 

MODT urges drivers to slow down during winter months and be extra aware of pedestrians.

Michigan Aldi stores matching 2019 Thanksgiving prices

As inflation continues to wreak havoc on grocery bills, a grocery store chain is rolling back prices to levels not seen since before the pandemic in 2019.

 

ALDI has started its Thanksgiving Price Rewind promotion, offering up to 30% discounts on holiday dishes, appetizers, desserts and drinks.

 

According to a press release, this Thanksgiving and all year-round, ALDI is committed to offering shoppers the best possible value.

 

"Providing amazing products at the absolute lowest prices is what we've always done, and we know right now that's more important than ever," said Dave Rinaldo, president of ALDI U.S. "We expect to welcome tens of millions of customers in our stores this Thanksgiving season, and we want them to know they can count on us. So why not attempt that additional side dish this year, or invite over a few more friends or family members? You can rest easy knowing ALDI has your back this Thanksgiving, and beyond."

 

The price of grocery staples have gone up 11% over this time last year.

Investigators believe Green Twp. trailer home fire is suspicious

Officials are asking for help from the public to determine who may be responsible for a mobile home fire in Mecosta County.

 

Fire crews were called to the single-wide trailer fully engulfed around 4:30 a.m. Wednesday in Green Township.

 

Crews put out the fire and evidence was located at the scene that appeared suspicious, according to the Mecosta County Sheriff's Office.

 

The fire was reported by a neighbor who saw the flames. No one was inside the trailer.

Area cross country athletes prep for state finals

After a long three months of training and competing, some of the best local teams and individuals will now gear up for the biggest race of the year.


For Reed City, a second-place finish at the Division 3, Region 20 final punched the Coyotes’ first team
ticket to the state finals for the first time since 1984.


“We had some outstanding performances at regionals and all of our kids seem to be peaking right now,” Head Coach Rich Saladin said. “It's hard to single out a runner as all of our team is meeting expectations.”


The Coyotes will be represented on the men’s side by sophomore Gus Rohde, juniors Ryan Allen and
Anthony Kianus, seniors Ty Kailing and Mason Dozier, and freshman Aaron Allen and Paul Saladin. Reed City will also be competing on the women’s side with senior Nora Smoes qualifying individually with a 10th place finish.


Chippewa Hills will also be making the trip to Brooklyn this season with a third-place finish from the
women’s team, composed of junior Ava Hollandsworth, freshmen Quinn Hatfield, junior Haylee
Livermore, sophomore Augusta Bowman, and junior Brookelyn Webster. The Warriors will also have
Jake O’Neill in the men’s race competing individually with a third-place finish at the home regional.
“Jake has done a tremendous job of working hard and improving every day,” Head Coach Zach Hatfield said. “The entire girls’ team has worked towards this and each team member played a crucial role in the team’s success.”


Rounding out individual qualifiers from the Region 20 race are juniors Tyler Vining and Miranda McNeil of Morley Stanwood, sophomore Coleson Cruzan of White Cloud, and senior Elizabeth Ringling of Pine River.


Over in Region 10 of Division 2, the Cardinals of Big Rapids will send two individual qualifiers to the state meet on the men’s side. Both seniors Owen Westercamp and Ben Knuth will race at the finals courtesy of their sixth and twelve place regional finishes respectively.


The Tri-County Vikings will also be sending a representative in the men’s race after Ramon Hernandez earned his ticket with a 10th place effort.


“This year was a big step for our program,” Head Coach Weston Rackley said. “Now that (our) kids have seen it happen, it shows they can do it too.”


On the women’s side, Remington Arney will be for Newaygo in the Division 2 title race after a 10th place race last weekend.


The State Finals will take place Saturday, Sep. 4 at Michigan International Speedway in Brooklyn. The
Division 3 men’s race will begin at 10:10 a.m. followed by the women’s race at 10:50. Division 2 races
will begin at 1:30 p.m. for the men and 2:50 p.m. for the women.

Salvation Army launches 2022 Red Kettle Campaign

Its never too early to think about the Holiday season but especially for those in need.

 

It's a familiar sight each holiday season and the good cause continues with the annual launch of The Salvation Army's Red Kettle Christmas Campaign.

 

This year's theme "Love Beyond Christmas" and the nonprofit has an $8.2 million fundraising goal to help feed the hungry, house the homeless and provide gifts for needy kids.

 

The words Beyond Christmas are meant to remind folks the need extends beyond the December holiday.

 

The Big Rapids Salvation Army along with Hillcrest Oakwood Properties also has launched its Angel Tree campaign as well from November 1st -December 10th. 

Local law enforcement agencies to 'Stuff a Cop Car' on Saturday to benefit food pantry

Local law enforcement agencies and the Manna Pantry have teammed up to host a 'Stuff a Cop Car' event on Saturday at various locations around the Big Rapids area. 

 

On Saturday, November 5th from 9:00 A.M. until 12:00 P.M., officers with the Big Rapids Police Department, the Mecosta County Sheriff’s Office, and students from the Ferris State University’s 49th Law Enforcement Academy are teaming up to help collect food for Manna Pantry.

 

There will be a police vehicle at Meijer, Aldi, and Walmart in Big Rapids for you to “Stuff Full.”


Join local law enforcement and members of our community, as we make a difference by
collecting non-perishable food items for distribution by Manna Pantry of Big Rapids.

 

Bring items with you or shop for non-perishable food items to donate upon exiting the store.

 

Suggested donations include canned fruits and vegetables, cereal, pasta, canned meats and fish, peanut butter, soup, side dishes, baby food, and gluten-free products.

 

Reed City Police Weekly Blotter 10/24-10/30

Monday…10/24
School liaison officer responded to a student allegedly taking illegal photos, after investigation it was
determined the allegations were unfounded.


School liaison officer assisted with a possible bullying case at the school. Nothing criminal was found and the matter was left in the hands of the school for appropriate action.


Officers took a report of a damaged gas tank on a vehicle. It appears there was an attempt to steal gas. The matter is under investigation.


Tuesday …10/25
Officer responded to a two-car accident, no injuries, minor damages.


Officer responded to a welfare check for an individual that was possibly suicidal, after investigating and speaking with the individual, it was determined that she was fine.


Wednesday …10/26
Officer assisted a woman that came in to report an incident regarding content posted on the internet and expressing her discontent with school policy. Neither matter was criminal in nature and she was advised to speak with the school over any disagreement with policy.


School liaison officer assisted with a student that was having a diabetic episode at school.


School liaison officer found a student to be in possession of an alcoholic beverage. The matter us under investigation.


Officer was dispatched in reference of an individual operating while intoxicated. After investigation, the matter was unfounded.


Thursday …10/27
Officer conducted a traffic stop that lead to an arrest of a 29-year-old man for outstanding warrant. He was lodged at the Osceola County Jail.


Officers took a report of an assault between two teens. The matter will be sent to the Prosecutor for review

.
Friday …10/28
Officers took a report from a local business owner regarding an individual near a vacant building who had attempted to open the doors. The matter is under investigation.


Officer took a noise complaint at an apartment complex. The matter was unfounded.


The school liaison officer took a report of a disorderly parent during the football game. The man was
escorted out and charges of disorderly conduct are expected to be sought.

 

Saturday …10/29
Officer took a call of a resident finding a small crack in the frame of their garage door and were concerned someone had tried to break in to the garage. The was no sign of attempted forced entry.


Sunday …10/30
Officers took a report of a possible domestic assault. One involved individual was intoxicated believed she was assaulted. There were not injures or signs of assault. The individuals separated and the matter will be forwarded to the prosecutor to review for possible charges.

Mecosta & Newaygo Counties to offer regional recreational passes for parks

The Newaygo County Parks and Recreation Commission and Mecosta County Park Commission are joining forces to provide a Regional Recreation Pass in 2023 to give Park Visitors a way to enjoy both Park systems while saving $10. Each organization offers a $35 annual vehicle pass that gets visitors into their respective parks, but in 2023 those who want access to both park systems will have the option to buy one pass for $60.


Newaygo and Mecosta County Park Commissions have worked closely for the past 5+ years
developing Michigan’s Dragon at Hardy Dam, a 40+ mile natural-surface multi-use trail system
around Hardy Pond. This has increased demand by visitors who want to visit parks and
trailheads operated by both entities.


“Since starting the Dragon Project, there have been many requests for a joint pass allowing
access into multiple trailheads, working together we found it best to showcase both park
systems and create a pass that gets people into all of our parks, not just those around the
Dragon Trail and Hardy Pond,” said Newaygo County Parks Director Nick Smith.


The Regional Recreation Pass will provide visitors access to five Mecosta County Parks and
seven Newaygo County Parks, two of which in each county are official trailheads for the Dragon
Trail.

 

“Both of our park systems offer a wide variety of amenities such as boat launches,
beaches, trails, playgrounds, campgrounds, day-use areas, and additional opportunities. We
hope that visitors who have traditionally frequented just one park system will consider
progressing to a regional pass to evaluate what the neighboring park system can add to their
recreational experience.” Said Jeff Abel, Mecosta County Parks Superintendent.


Both Park Commissions offer various outdoor recreational opportunities, many of which are
along the Muskegon River, including Hardy Pond. Campers, boaters, trail users, and visitors
can still purchase a traditional annual vehicle permit from either county or invest in the new
regional recreation pass and expand their recreational options while saving money.


Since the COVID-19 pandemic, both County Park systems have seen an influx of visitors to the
Parks, which has increased the use of their recreational facilities. Both agencies are self-funded, paying for park operations and improvement through the sale of vehicle permits and
campsites; they hope that teaming up will increase revenue.

 

“We are unique agencies since we are self-funded. Most Park and Rec agencies around the state rely on tax dollars to operate, whereas we rely on sales to operate and improve. We hope this will increase sales to continue improving our park facilities and offerings for our park customers and residents.” Said, Director Smith


Starting in late December 2022, the 2023 Regional Recreation Passes will go on sale. At that
time, park visitors can buy the pass over the phone or in person at each Park Administrative
Office or through one of the many self-registration stations throughout both park systems.

 

Please follow Mecosta County Parks and Newaygo County Parks on Facebook to learn when
Regional Recreation Pass sales start. When the campgrounds open for the season, Regional
Recreation Passes can also be purchased at campground offices.

Archives:

2024-03 | 2024-02 | 2024-01 | 2023-12 | 2023-11 | 2023-10 | 2023-09 | 2023-08 | 2023-07 | 2023-06 | 2023-05 | 2023-04 | 2023-03 | 2023-02 | 2023-01 | 2022-12 | 2022-11 | 2022-10 | 2022-09 | 2022-08 | 2022-07 | 2022-06 | 2022-05 | 2022-04 | 2022-03 | 2022-02 | 2022-01 | 2021-12 | 2021-11 | 2021-10 | 2021-09 | 2021-08 | 2021-07 | 2021-06 | 2021-05 | 2021-04 | 2021-03 | 2021-02 | 2021-01 | 2020-12 | 2020-11 | 2020-10 | 2020-09 | 2020-08 | 2020-07 | 2020-06 | 2020-05 | 2020-04 | 2020-03 | 2020-02 | 2020-01 | 2019-12 | 2019-11 | 2019-10 | 2019-09 | 2019-08 | 2019-07 | 2019-06 | 2019-05 | 2019-04 | 2019-03 | 2019-02 | 2019-01 | 2018-12 | 2018-11 | 2018-10 | 2018-09 | 2018-08 | 2018-07 | 2018-06 | 2018-05 | 2018-04 | 2018-03 | 2018-02 | 2018-01 | 2017-12 | 2017-11 | 2017-10 | 2017-09 | 2017-08 | 2017-07 | 2017-06 | 2017-05 | 2017-04 | 2017-03 | 2017-02 | 2017-01 | 2016-12 | 2016-11 | 2016-10 | 2016-09

Weather

Local High School Schedule & Scores

CSAA Baseball

TUESDAY 4/2/24

Reed City @ Evart - 4:00pm & 6:00pm

Harrison @ Chippewa Hills - 4:00pm & 6:00pm 

Tri-County @ Greenville - 4:15pm

Lakeview @ Vestaburg - 4:00pm

 

WEDNESDAY 4/3/24

Petoskey @ Big Rapids - 4:00pm & 6:00pm

 

THURSDAY 4/4/24

Reed City @ Kingsley - 4:15pm & 6:15pm

Chippewa Hills @ Farwell - 4:15pm & 6:15pm

 

FRIDAY 4/5/24

Big Rapids @ Cadillac - 4:00pm & 6:00pm

 

SATURDAY 4/6/24

Mason County Central @ Reed City - 1:00pm & 3:00pm

Greenville @ Central Montcalm - 10:00am & 12:00pm

 

 

CSAA Softball

TUESDAY 4/2/24

Reed City @ Evart - 4:00pm & 6:00pm

Harrison @ Chippewa Hills - 4:00pm & 6:00pm 

Tri-County @ Greenville - 4:15pm

Lakeview @ Vestaburg - 4:00pm

 

WEDNESDAY 4/3/24

Petoskey @ Big Rapids - 4:00pm & 6:00pm

 

THURSDAY 4/4/24

Reed City @ Kingsley - 4:15pm & 6:15pm

Chippewa Hills @ Farwell - 4:15pm & 6:15pm

 

FRIDAY 4/5/24

Big Rapids @ Cadillac - 4:00pm

Greenville @ Central Montcalm - 4:00pm & 6:00pm

 

SATURDAY 4/6/24

Mason County Central @ Reed City - 1:00pm & 3:00pm

This Week's Poll

What place will the Tigers finish in the AL Central?