Following a dominant 32-4 regular season, the Cardinals rolled to a district championship with two victories over Ludington and Gladwin. Now, Big Rapids faces their toughest battle yet for a chance to reach the Region 9 championship game.

Coming out of District 34, Coach Thompson’s team has been known for their offense. The Cardinals have averaged 11.18 runs per game, one of the highest in Division 2. Big Rapids has also played a tough non-conference schedule, earning a 14-4 record with their only losses coming against the top Division 1 team Macomb Dakota, ranked Division 2 teams Hudsonville Unity Christian and Wayland, and a road loss to 26-win Mt. Pleasant. Big Rapids enters the regional tournament as Division 2’s number 10 team in the MHSAA rankings.

For the opposing Blue Devils, their offense is one of few that has recorded more runs than Big Rapids. Gaylord currently holds an average of 11.89 runs per game this season, almost 0.7 higher than the Cardinals. As Division 2’s top team, Gaylord’s only two losses came to Division’s 1 number 5 ranked Hartland and top ranked Macomb Dakota.

The winner of Saturday’s first semi-final will face the winner of Essexville Garber, a state semi-finalist last year, and Freeland, a team who upset Garber on the road a few weeks ago. Each game will be held on the Lincoln Softball Field at Cadillac High School on Saturday, June 10.

Regional 9 Semi-Final Matchups

#10 Big Rapids (34-4*) vs. #1 Gaylord (34-2*) – Lincoln Softball Field – June 10 @ 10:00 A.M.

Big Rapids: 11.18 runs scored per game; 2.37 runs allowed per game

Gaylord: 11.89 runs scored per game; 0.83 runs allowed per game

HM Freeland (30-10*) vs. #4 Essexville Garber (36-4) – Lincoln Softball Field – June 10 @ 12:00 P.M

Freeland: 9.55 runs scored per game; 3.43 runs allowed per game

Gaylord: 9.58 runs scored per game; 2.08 runs allowed per game

Regional 9 Final Matchup

Semi-Final Winners – Lincoln Softball Field – June 10 @ 2:00 P.M

*-Records acquired via GameChanger App

A bill aimed at reducing drunk driving has passed the Michigan Senate.

Individuals convicted of driving while intoxicated may have a ignition interlock device added to their car. The device is like a handheld car breathalyzer, which would test the driver before starting the vehicle.

Supporters say this device is more effective than license suspensions.

The bill would create the Specialty Court, which would also consider drug treatment court, mental health court and veterans treatment court.

The bills now head to the House of Representatives for consideration.

Coming up on Wednesday, June 28 at Wenger Pavilion in Baldwin, award-winning blues and roots artist Peter Harper and his band Midwest Kind will be performing a free concert as part of the band’s summer tour across the Northeast United States.

The group performed a year ago on Aug. 10 in Baldwin, in which the band saw great success. Harper said he looks forward to performing in a part of Michigan he loves.

“I’ve lived here for 15 years so I regard myself as a Michigander,” Harper said. “It’s always been nice and lush and I just like that part of Michigan. The crowds have been good for us and there’s no reason why we shouldn’t come back.”

Harper, originally from Australia but now based in Detroit, has received a gold record, over 14 international music awards and four different albums in the Billboard Top Ten in the blues and roots category. He has also worked with and supported many internationally known artists, such as John Mayall, Muddy Waters, Koko Taylor, Little Feat, Buddy Guy, and Robert Cray.

While Harper’s support cast will be the same as last year, he said returning fans will be in for a treat with older, featured songs returning to the lineup.

“It’s funny because my band chooses the music, I just write the songs. They come up to me and say how much they love a song and how we need to do that one again. Then, of course, a few people out there have bought previous CDs and they want to hear some of those songs. I’m going to be doing some stuff off some of my albums going back to 2000s.”

When it comes to music style, Harper and Midwest Kind reaps the benefits of many classical instruments, including the didgeridoo and harmonica. According to Harper, fan feedback alludes to these two instruments as staples in the show.

“The one thing that everyone talks about is the didgeridoo, which is an abnormal instrument,” Harper said. “For people who've never seen it before, they're going to see a very interesting old instrument that goes back about 10,000 years. I'm (also) known for my harmonica playing, so people who know the harmonica are gonna get their belly full of it.”

Harper’s work and more tour information can be found online at www.harper.biz/tours.html.

District Health Department #10 (DHD#10) is reminding everyone to exercise proper precautions to prevent human-tick interaction. 

Areas across Michigan, including Northern Michigan, generally see an increase in tick activity once the weather becomes nicer and people head outdoors to enjoy nature. “Tick-borne diseases, like Lyme disease and anaplasmosis, are on the rise state-wide,” said Michael Kramer, DHD#10 Environmental Health Director.  

To decrease your chances of getting bitten by a tick, take these precautions: 

• Being aware of your surroundings. Most tick encounters happen in shady, moist wooded and grassy areas and fields near wooded areas.  
• Applying EPA-registered insect repellent that contains 20% or more DEET, picaridin, or IR3535, to skin or clothing according to label’s instructions.  
• Wearing clothing that has been treated with permethrin. 
• Walking in the center of trails and avoid walking in areas with tall grass and brush. 
• Conducting a full-body check of yourself and your pets for ticks after spending time outdoors.  
• Drying clothing on high heat for 60 minutes to kill any remaining ticks. 
• Taking a shower as soon as you can after coming indoors. 
• Talking to your vet about tick bite prevention products for your pets.  

Michigan also offers tick identification resources to residents and visitors for free. Physical ticks can be placed in a container and mailed to MDHHS, or photos may be submitted to MDHHS-Bugs@michigan.gov  

For more information about ticks, please visit: https://www.michigan.gov/mdhhs/safety-injury-prev/environmental-health/topics/mitracking/ticks. 

Questions regarding ticks and other vectors should be directed to DHD#10’s Environmental Health Division at 888-217-3904. 

A part of US-131 in Montcalm County was shut down last night following an investigation into a rollover crash involving a tractor trailer and a vehicle. 

It happened just before 9:45pm Wednesday, police responded to the area of southbound US-131 near 22 Mile Rd for the report of a semi tractor-trailer that had overturned just north of the overpass.

The Montcalm County Sheriff's Office says an investigation revealed that a 2018 Kenworth tractor, being driven by a 51-year-old Hulbert man, was traveling south on US-131 approaching the 22 Mile Road overpass.

The tractor was hauling double flatbed trailers loaded with lumber.

The driver failed to negotiate the curve and ran off the roadway to the right as the driver attempted to steer the tractor-trailer back onto the roadway. The tractor-trailer continued off of the roadway and overturned, spilling its load, coming to a rest near the overpass embankment. 

The driver was taken to Corewell Health Butterworth Hospital for non-life-threatening injuries. The driver was believed to have been wearing his seatbelt at the time of the crash.

The crash remains under investigation.

A $250 million dollar lawsuit has been filed against a Michigan DNR conservation officer who shot a man at a campground in Mecosta County, last month.

The suit was reportedly filed on behalf of Brandon Davis, who claims he was defending himself in a fight with the officer's father when the DNR officer shot him at Merrill-Gorrel Campground.

The suit claims the officer used completely unreasonable force, which caused Davis physical and mental injuries, including losing a kidney.

The DNR officer is on administrative leave while state police investigate.

Monday…5/29
Officer was called to assist with a mental health patient that walked away. The patient returned for treatment.

Tuesday …5/30
An Officer was dispatched to a residence regarding an aggravated domestic assault. The suspect had left prior to the officer’s arrival and could not be located. The matter has been turned over to the prosecutor for charges.

An Officer issued an abatement notice for an inoperable vehicle.

Wednesday …5/31
Officers were dispatched to a residential burglar alarm. The property was checked and the alarm was
unfounded.

An Officer was requested to contact a resident and inform him that his wallet was found in Lake County.

An Officer assisted a truck driver who had experienced brake problems and was blocking the intersection.

An Officer, while patrolling, noticed someone sitting by the Depot, that appeared to look passed out. After approaching the male, he was fine.

An Officer was dispatched to a residence regarding a domestic assault. One half of the incident had departed the city prior to the other calling. The matter has been turned over to the prosecutor for possible charges.

The Department received a call regarding a welfare check on a 24yr old male that was possibly suicidal. He was taken for treatment without any incidents.

Thursday …6/1
An Officer took a report about some stolen property. The individual who had taken the property believed it to be scrap metal and returned the property.

An Officer responded to a call regarding a small child found alone outside at an apartment complex. The parent of the child was located. Police responded to investigate and address the situation. The child was not uninjured.

An Officer was dispatched to a residence for a 911 hangup. Upon arrival, it was discovered that the call wasmade by accident, as the resident was doing some lawn work and had the phone in her pocket.

Friday …6/2
Officers were dispatched to an apartment complex when the caller believed they had seen a meth lab. Upon reviewing the matter, it was determined to be a small homemade wine distillery for personal consumption.

Officers were requested to do a civil standby while the caller picked up property from her ex’s residence.

An Officer responded to reports of a dispute between neighbors regarding their dogs.

Saturday …6/3
An Officer issued an abatement notice for lawn maintenance not meeting the city ordinance.

An Officer assisted OCSD with a vehicle and grass fire caused by a single vehicle rollover accident.

Officers made a traffic stop for an expired plate. Following a short investigation, the driver was issued a misdemeanor appearance citation for driving on a revoked license and a licensed driver was allowed to take over driving. The officer also served a passenger in the vehicle with a personal protection order out of another county that had not yet been served.

Sunday …6/4
While on patrol an officer located 3 juveniles out after curfew. They were taken home where they had to awaken their mother who was unaware they had left and was not pleased when she learned they had.

Officers took a report of a scratch on a vehicle that the owner had not noticed before.

Officers took a report of a possible criminal sexual conduct. It was determined no CSC had taken place but there were possible violations of providing marijuana to a minor and contributing to the delinquency of a minor. The matter had been turned over to the prosecutor for review.

Mecosta County Parks will be hosting its 8^th annual Community Open House this weekend.

From Friday through Sunday, June 9th-11th, daily vehicle entrance fees to the all county parks will be waived allowing free day use. Day use visiting hours are from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m.

County parks participating in the Community Open House include Brower, School Section Lake, Merrill-Gorrel, Paris, and Davis Bridge.

The open house provides an opportunity for county residents and area visitors to take advantage of the many opportunities offered through the park system and is organized in conjunction with the Department of Natural Resources Free Fishing Weekend.

Area families are encouraged to enjoy a fun weekend together at one of our several park locations. Wheather participating in the free fishing weekend, boating, swimming, hiking, mountain biking, participating in one of the staffed family programs, or just enjoying the outdoors. 

The weekend also offers the most affordable camping opportunity of the year as campers will not be required to pay additional vehicle fees normally associated with a camping stay. To book your campsite or cabin for the weekend visit the online reservations of the Mecosta County Parks website.

For information about each park's offerings and to keep up with scheduled summer events visit www.MecostaCountyParks.com and like or follow each individual County Park page on Facebook.

The Charles E. Fairman Community Pool in Big Rapids is open for the 2023 Summer!

Community pool officials say they are now taking registrations for swim lessons. The deadline to register is Friday, June 9^th.

Open swim will also be available for residents this week from 5pm to 7:45pm. Next week open swim takes place from 1pm-4:45pm.

Classes will also be offered this year ranging from basic water rescue, handicapped swim, water babies, adult swim and water aerobics.

Fun family nights will also take place every Friday. It's $2.00 per person or you can purchase a pool pass.

Despite a first-round exit in the District 35 playoffs, four Big Rapids players earned all-district honors following a 26-7 finish on the season.

These four players included senior catcher Wil Strickler, senior second baseman Brett Root, senior pitcher Ben Knuth, and junior outfield Riley Vennix.

"There are a number of very strong players in our district, from Gladwin to Bay City John Glenn in particular,” Head coach J.T. Scarpelli said. “That Strickler, Vennix, Root, and Knuth are all able to represent Big Rapids as All-District players is a testament to their work ethic, athleticism, and leadership.”

Behind the plate, Strickler batted .362 on the season, obtained a slugging percentage of .438, and led the team with 27 RBI’s. He also allowed a career low .720 stealing percent to opposing base runners.

Root led the Cardinals with a .514 on base percentage and .400 batting average behind a hot second half of the season.

Leading Big Rapids on the mound, Knuth registered an opposing batting average of .149 and a career low earned run average of 0.754. With more than 60 innings pitched, Knuth's season ERA may qualify for an MHSAA State record.

Vennix, the only player returning next season, obtained a .494 slugging percentage and a team high 25 stolen bases and 28 runs scored.

“I am very proud of these guys,” Scarpelli said. “They have earned this honor."

A Clare man is dead following a motorcycle crash involving a pickup truck Saturday morning.

Isabella County Sheriff Michael Main said in a press release, at 10:52am Saturday, deputies were called to a traffic crash between a motorcycle and a pickup towing a small utility trailer.

While enroute to the scene, officers were informed that the motorcyclist, a 68-year old Clare man was trapped between the pickup and trailer. Upon arrival of first responders, it was determined he had died from the crash.

During the investigation, it was determined that the pickup truck driven by a 22-year old Owosso man was turning left into a driveway, the motorcyclist was traveling the same direction and failed to stop or yield to the vehicle in front of him, the motorcyclist then collided with the pickup.

As a standout on the mound for the Coyotes, Reed City’s Noah Morgan will be continuing his pitching
career as a Jayhawk next season.

The fellow senior announced his commitment during the last week of the regular season according to head coach Eric Grannis.

“(Muskegon Community College) reached out to me and I really like their coach,” Morgan said.

Morgan becomes the third Coyote to commit to a collegiate program, joining Grand Rapids Community College signee Xavier Allen and Central Michigan University signee Max Hammond.

The southpaw finished regular season play with 86 strikeouts in 14 appearances. He also earned a spot on the CSAA All-Conference honorable mention team for his season performance.

“Like halfway through the season, I felt I was doing pretty good earning double digit strikeouts per
game,” Morgan said. “I worked really hard to get stronger and improve my off speed.”

While the Coyotes’ season ended following a district title game loss to Clare this weekend, Morgan said he made many good memories during his high school years. This included a conference championship, regional championship game appearance, and even a top-notch district semifinal performance a year ago.

“I pitched that game and scored the winning run too,” Morgan said. “It was a cool moment.”

Morgan will join the list of former CSAA honorees to play as a Jayhawk, including Big Rapids left-hander Sawyer Meeuwes, Fremont pitcher Drew DeBlake, and Tri-County catcher Nate Lovell. He also plans on studying mechanical engineering as a student.

One person suffered burns following a camper trailer explosion at a campground in Osceola County Sunday morning.

The Evart Fire Department says aeromed was flown to Big Lake Campground after an assessment of the victim who had burns to 25%-35% of their body.

MSP Fire Investigation Unit was contacted and will be investigating the incident.

Following two public hearings last month, the Big Rapids City Commission tonight will be discussing and acting on whether or not to approve the 2023-2024 fiscal year budget for the city.

The budget for next fiscal year is just under $36-million dollars. This resolution requires a 4/5^th vote for approval.

Continuing in general business, city commissioners are expected to approve a resolution that authorizes a grant submission to the Michigan Economic Development Corporation for the Train Depot Trailhead Park project. Commissioners are also expected to award a bid for a new LED sign for the Big Rapids Department of Public Safety Building. Finally, the city commission is expected to authorize a Special Land Use Permit for a Communications Tower at 301 N. Bronson Avenue.

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

The 100 deadliest days for teen drivers have begun.

Triple -A says more than 30 percent of deaths involving teen drivers happen between Memorial Day and Labor Day.

Spokesperson Adrienne Woodland say teens spend more time on the roads during odd hours when school wraps up. That leads to dangerous driving like speeding, not wearing a seatbelt, and distracted driving.

Crashes are the leading cause of death for teens ages 16 to 19.

A Reed City man is dead and a woman was injured following a crash involving an ATV and a combine, Sunday in Newaygo County. 

It happened in Barton Township at E 14 Mile Rd. near N Cypress Ave. 

In a press release, Newaygo County Sheriff Bob Mendham said a 52-year-old man from Reed City had died from his injuries in the accident. A 51-year-old woman from Reed City was taken to Corewell Health in Grand Rapids for her injuries.

This accident is currently still under investigation.

Deputies with the Mecosta County Sheriff's Office assisted officers in Lake County in a stolen vehicle pursuit early Sunday morning.

Deputies got the call around 1:30am, they were advised the suspects were headed south on US-131 from US-10 going 130mph.

Officers set up two patrol cars at Perry Street on the south side with stop sticks. 

The suspects vehicle exited the Big Rapids exit then re-entered the highway. 

Deputies were able to spike a tire of the suspects vehicle which ended the pursuit.

Seven suspects were involved, they were also minors and taken into custody.

Deputies also found a loaded gun under the drivers seat. 

The  deputies then assisted Lake County in transporting 2 minors to the Lake County Sheriff's Department.

On May 20, Ferris State Athletics announced the addition of a brand-new strength and conditioning academy to their summer camp lineup.

This month-long opportunity will allow area middle school and high school athletes to advance their own sport training in Ferris’ brand-new Center of Athletic Performance.

“This camp is designated for middle to high school students who are looking to build a foundation for athletic performance and also get a sneak peek at how our athletes train,” strength and conditioning head coach Andrew Thiede said.

Ahead of his third full year with the Bulldogs, Andrew Thiede has helped all 17 athletic programs excel in large ways. This includes leading training programs for ten different conference championship teams, three regional champions, and two national champions.

This summer, Thiede is ready to share his work with the upcoming generation of athletes.

“My main focus is to establish high quality movement in regard to all facets of performance, speed, power, strength and mobility. I want this camp to be an opportunity for students to build a solid foundation and get an understanding of how to train the correct way.”

The camp is slated to begin on Monday, June 5, and continue every Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday through the month of June. Each session will begin at 9:30 A.M. and conclude around 12:30 P.M., as well as benefit the use of multiple Bulldog Athletic facilities.

“We went this route because I want to really perfect our movement patterns and be able to see progress,” Thiede said. “We will be on the track, the weightroom, the court, etc. to really develop all levels of performance.”

Registration is still available for any student athletes between 6th and 12th grade. For more information, visit FerrisStateBulldogs.com/Camps.

A self-driving Tesla caused a one vehicle crash in Mecosta County.

It happened on Sunday in Colfax Township on Mckinley Rd near 135^th Avenue.

The Sheriff's Office says a 41 year old Hudsonville woman was traveling west on Mckinley Rd when she put her Tesla in self driving mode.  Once the vehicle was in Self driving mode, the driver stated that the vehicle pulled to the right and went off the roadway and hit a tree. The vehicle then rolled several times before coming to a stop. 

The Hudsonville woman was the only occupant of the vehicle and was taken to Corewell Health Big Rapids hospital for minor injuries.

Heads up for those drivers on US-131 near Osceola County.

The Michigan Department of Transportation says road work on southbound US-131 at US-10 is scheduled for today, (May 30th) from noon to 5 p.m.

For more information/updates visit:  michigan.gov/drive. 

Two people were sent to the hospital Wednesday evening following a two vehicle crash in Mecosta County's Aetna Township.

It happened just after 5pm, that's when deputies were called to Northland Dr near 180th Ave.

An investigation revealed, a 77-year old woman from Morley rear ended another vehicle driven by a 35-year old woman from Howard City who had been stopped to turn into a driveway.

The 77-year old Morley woman suffered non life-threatening injuries and was taken to the Corewell Health Big Rapids Hospital for treatment. A 55-year old woman from Howard City who was a passenger with the 35-year old female driver was also taken to the Corewell Health Big Rapids Hospital for non life-threatening injuries.

While released third in order of our previews, softball might bring the most intriguing postseason to date. Many storybooks remain open for historical finishes this June, whether it’s back-to-back State Finals appearances, a district title streak of over three years, or a Cinderella run no one expected. Here are some notable brackets to keep an eye on this postseason:

District 34 (Big Rapids)
Looking for their third straight title since the COVID pandemic, head coach Dawn Thompson’s Cardinals have proven their strength to be a serious regional title contender this year. Behind an offense that has totaled over 400 runs already and a defense and pitching staff that has allowed less than 90, Big Rapids comes in as the heavy favorite with their experience playing four all-state caliber teams across all four divisions. Gladwin and Ogemaw Heights come in as notable competitors with three games experience playing against each other, in which Gladwin owns a 2-1 series advantage. The Vikings and Orioles also bring intrigue entering as sneaky underdogs that each won at least a game in district play in last year’s tournament.

1st Round Matchups
Cadillac (1-9-0) vs. Ogemaw Heights (21-12-0*) – Big Rapids Softball Field**, May 30, 5:00 P.M.

Semifinal Matchups
Gladwin (22-12-0*) vs. Cadillac/Ogemaw Heights Winner – Big Rapids Softball Field, June 3, 10:00 A.M.

Big Rapids (32-4-0*) vs. Ludington (4-17-1) – Big Rapids Softball Field, June 3, 12:00 P.M.

Final Matchup
Semifinal Winners – Big Rapids Softball Field, June 3, 2:00 P.M.

District 71 (Evart)
The defending state runner-up Wildcats enter this year’s tournament as top team in the Division 3 state rankings. Evart’s dominant pitching and explosive hitting will experience playing on their home diamond, a place they haven’t lost at in almost 380 days. Coach Brown’s team will have to take down Highland conference foes Lake City and McBain to face the winner of a rejuvenated Reed City team that has won four of their last six games and a Pine River team that gave the Wildcats a run for their money in the district final a year ago. While many of these teams haven’t played each other during the regular season, historical matchups and similar play style will certainly bring some extra excitement in Evart next
Saturday.

1st Round Matchups
Evart (26-5-0*) vs. Lake City (1-13-0) – Evart High School, May 30, 4:00 P.M.

Semifinal Matchups
Reed City (16-20-0*) vs. Pine River (7-10-0) – Evart High School, June 3, 10:00 A.M.

McBain (3-18-0*) vs. Evart/Lake City Winner – Evart High School, June 3, 12:00 P.M.

Final Matchup
Semifinal Winners – Evart High School, June 3, 2:00 P.M.

District 74 (Remus Chippewa Hills)
In a highly contested CSAA race, Central Montcalm found themselves right in the mix for a second-place finish in the regular season standings. The Hornets have proven they can play with anyone, including a pair of tight losses to Division 3 honorable mentions Traverse City St. Francis and St. Louis and a split with state honoree Ithaca on the road. They face an opening test against a motivated Warrior team who will play in front of their home crowd for the first time since 2021 in postseason play. The Lakeview Wildcats also stand an intriguing matchup for the winner, while White Cloud and Morley Stanwood will square off in a regular season rubber match that saw over 27 runs cross the plate in their split double header 10 days ago.

1st Round Matchups

Central Montcalm (25-12-1*) vs. Chippewa Hills (7-21-0*) – Chippewa Hills Softball Field, May 30, 4:00 P.M.

Semifinal Matchups
Lakeview (9-21-0) vs. Central Montcalm/Chippewa Hills Winner – Chippewa Hills Softball Field, June 3, 10:00 A.M.

White Cloud (10-22-1*) vs. Morley Stanwood (3-18-0) – Chippewa Hills Softball Field, June 3, 12:00 P.M.

Final Matchup
Semifinal Winners – Chippewa Hills Softball Field, June 3, 2:00 P.M.

*-Occupied via GameChanger result and statistics app.
**-Subject to change, original location reported on MHSAA.com.

The dog days on the diamond are through. The month of June in high school baseball is the closest thing to the month of October in the big leagues.

Battles for trophies commence next week and here are some key brackets you should be watching this postseason:

District 35 (Kingsley)
In his first year at the helm of the varsity, J.T. Scarpelli has continued the dominance on the diamond in Big Rapids. The Cardinals have already won 25 games this year, the most since the regional runner-up season back in 2018. Scarpelli’s squad has the flexibility in personal, power at the plate, and depth on the mound to make a run at a district crown. The biggest obstacle in their way: a first-round flurry with fellow 20-win Gladwin who has dominated the Jack Pine this season. On the other side, the Kingsley Stags and Cadillac Vikings will battle it out to break the 1-1 season split and find a spot in the District 35 title game.

1st Round Matchups
Big Rapids (25-5-1) vs. Gladwin (27-5-1) – Big Rapids Baseball Field, May 30, 5:00 P.M.

Semifinal Matchups
Ludington (12-15-0) vs Big Rapids/Gladwin Winner – Kingsley Athletic Complex, June 3, 10:00 A.M.

Kingsley (8-6-1) vs. Cadillac (14-15-1*) – Kingsley Athletic Complex, June 3, 12:30 P.M.

Final Matchup
Semifinal Winners – Kingsley Athletic Complex, June 3, 3:00 P.M.

District 72 (Clare)
Defending district champs, Reed City, have enjoyed a successful season behind strong performances from college commits Xavier Allen and Max Hammond. The Coyotes’ strong pitching staff has the stuff to lead back-to-back title seasons, but familiar foes with improved second halves of the season will make things interesting. Their first-round matchup, Evart, has won four of their last six behind some hot bats from coach Josh Johnson’s team. Chippewa Hills, a team who has proven to play tough against fellow CSAA teams like Reed City and Big Rapids, will square off between the winner of host Clare and Harrison. Pine River also sits in the mix, looking to take advantage of their first district bye since 2016.

1st Round Matchups
Reed City (16-12-0) vs. Evart (20-13-0*) – Brookwood Athletic Complex, May 30, 4:00 P.M.

Clare (13-11-0) vs. Harrison (2-9-0) – Brookwood Athletic Complex, May 30, 6:00 P.M.

Semifinal Matchups
Pine River (10-6-1) vs. Reed City/Evart Winner – Brookwood Athletic Complex, June 3, 10:00 A.M.

Chippewa Hills (11-16-1) vs. Clare/Harrison Winner – Brookwood Athletic Complex, June 3, 12:00 P.M.

Final Matchup
Semifinal Winners – Brookwood Athletic Complex, June 3, 2:00 P.M.

District 69 (Hart)
Almost doubling their win total from a year ago, White Cloud’s season has brought their fans some excitement going into postseason play. Coach Kelly Mahn’s team has swung the bats well, averaging almost 8.4 runs per game with eight games in double digits offensively. White Cloud has also beaten every other team in this bracket except for one, a tough Mason County Central team who enter their first year in District 69 with one win fewer than the Indians. This first round matchup certainly looks to be the battle of the favorites, with wild card teams like hosts Hart and Morley Stanwood looking to play spoiler on the other side.

1st Round Matchups
Shelby (8-16-0) vs. Morley Stanwood (7-16-1*) – Shelby Baseball Field, May 30, 4:00 P.M.

White Cloud (20-11-1) vs. Mason County Central (19-7-0*) – White Cloud Baseball Diamond, May 30,
4:30 P.M.

Semifinal Matchups
Hesperia (6-23-0) vs. Shelby/Morley Stanwood Winner – Hart Baseball Field, June 3, 10:00 A.M.

Hart (10-18-0*) vs. White Cloud/Mason County Central Winner – Hart Baseball Field, June 3, 12:00 P.M.

Final Matchup
Semifinal Winners – Hart Baseball Field, June 3, 2:00 P.M.

*-Occupied via GameChanger result and statistics app.

A new pharmacy in Weidman recently opened to serve area residents in a unique way.

Wrigley Pharmacy opened May 8^th at the R & R Family Store. It's Wrigley Pharmacy's second location, the first being in Wellston, MI.   

Manager Tisha Peterson said Wrigley's is unique because of bill that passed in Michigan back in 2020, that allowed tele-pharmacies in the state.  

A tele-pharmacy is staffed by trained, certified, and licensed pharmacy technicians, with the pharmacist verifying all prescriptions and offering PT consultation via an audio/video link with the pharmacy.

Peterson said they are very excited to offer its pharmacy services to residents in Weidman. Adding the response from the community has been great since being open. 

Wrigley's is planning a big grand opening event on Friday, June 16th from 2pm-7pm.

Both State Senator Roger Hauck and State House Representative Jerry Neyer will be in attendance during festivities. 

The free community event will be offering hot dogs, beans & chips, bounce houses, kids games, pop corn, and sno-cones. They'll also be doing a 50/50 raffle with the proceeds being donated to the Weidman food pantry and a matching donation from Wrigley's. The pharmacy will also be collecting non-perishable's for the food pantry as well. 

It’s been almost nine months since the first sneak peek tournament at Reed City’s new disc golf course.

Since then, the course has earned prominence by adding permanent baskets, trimming pathways to each hole, and now putting in brand-new concrete tee pads.

“The last month, we have been killing it out here,” City councilman Dan Burchett said on the course improvements.

With the help of eight individuals over the past weekend, the course now has 18 4x8 feet concrete slabs for players to tee off from. Those involved included Burchett, course designer Steve Hedstrom, course director Dave Maddox, and club members Jonathan Zelinski and Bill Westveer.

“On Friday, Dave Maddox and myself got all the frames built and laid out,” Burchett said. “The next day, we got them leveled out and put into the ground. Then from there, Steve ordered the concrete and we worked diligently as a team.”

In future consideration for the course, Burchett said there are many ideas in the works towards new tee signs. This includes expansive geographical maps and drone flyover videos for each of the hole layouts on the course.

“It’s going to similar to Navionics in fishing. You’ll see the lines and be able to see (if a hole) goes down fast or back up slow. There’s also going to be QR codes, where you can take a picture and see a video of a drone flying down the fairway towards the basket. Hopefully we are going to have those within the next month.”

The course will be officially re-opening to the public Wednesday afternoon following a two-day closure for the concrete pad installations.