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News That Affects You Archives for 2022-12

Co-leader in plot to kidnap Gov. Whitmer sentenced to nearly 20 years in prison

A federal judge has sentenced a second man convicted on conspiracy charges related to the plot to kidnap Governor Whitmer to 19.5 years in prison.

 

Judge Robert Jonker said 47-year old Barry Croft Jr of Delaware was a more risky individual than the other co-leader Adam Fox who was sentenced to 16 years in prison on Tuesday.

 

The judge said Croft also has more of an issue with law enforcement than Fox and agreed that Croft did take a leadership role in the plan that was broken up two years ago.

U-Haul truck hits Rodney woman; dies at scene

A Rodney woman is dead after being struck by a vehicle near the intersection 120th Ave and Arthur Rd in Martiny township.

 

Sheriff Deputies say a Big Rapids man who operating a U-haul truck at the time, was traveling northbound on 120th Ave just north of Arthur Rd when the Rodney woman was struck by the U-Haul truck.

 

She was subsequently declared deceased on scene.

 

The Sheriff's Office says alcohol / drugs nor speed was determined to be a contributing factor in this incident. 

Former Ferris State QB arrested on felony assault charges

Former Ferris State University football star Jayru Campbell is facing several charges after his encounter with Auburn Hills police on Christmas Day.

 

Court records say Campbell has been charged with three counts of felonious assault along with three misdemeanor charges of child abuse, disorderly conduct and trespassing. He was booked into the Oakland County jail late Sunday night after he was live on Facebook showing his interaction with four police officers while inside a psychiatric and substance abuse facility.

 

During the video, Campbell is seen holding a child, who he says is his daughter, and a pair of scissors. Campbell is due to face a judge later today.

Reed City hosting New Year's Eve ball drop event

Starting at 9:00 p.m. on Saturday, the Reed City social district will be hosting a New Year’s Eve ball drop party.


The festivities will take place on Upton Ave., which will be blocked off for the occasion, and will include a DJ, open mic karaoke, exclusive food, and a full ball drop experience. The event is being put on by the Reed City Area Chamber of Commerce with the Reed City Brewing Company and Buckboard Bar and Grill participating as partnering establishments.


“We're pretty excited to be able to ring in the new year with everybody,” Deanna Murphy, co-owner of Reed City Brewing Company, said.


When asked about expected attendance, Murphy said the group is planning on seeing a large crowd.


“I'm hoping that we have a lot more people since the whole street of Upton is going to be shut down.
We're hoping that we can have twice the amount of people and have it be similar to what we had for
Halloween.”


For more information and details, visit the Reed City Area Chamber of Commerce Facebook page.

BBB names top scams in 2022 that affected residents in West Michigan

The Better Business Bureau is revealing the top scams of 2022 in Western Michigan. These scams are ranked based on the number of BBB Scam Tracker entries and impact on consumers. 

 

  1. Online Purchases
  2. Employment
  3. Phishing

 

The top scam in our Western Michigan coverage area was online purchase scams. This is the second year in a row online purchase scams topped the list in our area. Many of the online scams reported started on social media. Online purchase scams are the riskiest scam for consumers, according to the 2021 BBB Scam Tracker Risk Report. A recent BBB study on online purchase scams shows  25% of consumers using BBB Scam Tracker reported being targeted  by a scam while browsing social media.

 

Scammers often target consumers on social media with product photos from a legitimate business. When the consumer clicks on the ad, it leads them to a fraudulent, copycat site. After placing an order, victims report receiving nothing or receiving counterfeit items compared to what the ad promised. Most attempts to get a refund or contact someone from the online store go unanswered.

 

"Scammers know we are shopping online and target consumers casually scrolling through social media feeds,” says Lisa Frohnapfel, President & CEO of the Better Business Bureau in Western Michigan. “Don’t let the too-good-to-be-true prices and flashy advertisements lure you into clicking on fraudulent sites and handing over your hard-earned money.”

 

The type of online purchase scam costing Michiganders the most money continues to be pet scams. Earlier this month, BBB updated a 2017,  in-depth study on the impact of puppy scams. You can read the update here. The Michigan Attorney General’s Office also recently warned consumers about puppy scams. 

 

This year, a Muskegon County woman lost $6,000 after she thought she was buying a new puppy. The scammer continued to ask for payments in gift cards over the phone until the woman realized she was never receiving the puppy.

 

The second riskiest scam was employment scams. It has been one of the riskiest for consumers for the past 5 years.

 

Dozens of victims from around the country were scammed this year when they applied for remote positions with a fake package-forwarding service. The company appeared legitimate by using an address in Cadillac, MI. Victims were approached by the scammer and offered a job with no interview or face-to-face contact. Victims shared their social security numbers and banking information for background checks and direct-payment setup. After doing work for weeks, no one was paid and all communication with the employer was cut off.

 

Fake employers often pose as real, familiar companies and target resumes on job seeking sites. These employers may also ask for the new employee to cover the cost of training or equipment, with the promise of being reimbursed.

 

The third riskiest scam was phishing scams. Scammers use email, phone calls or text messages to trick you into giving them your personal and financial information. The messages often look like they are from a company you know and trust. The message urges you to click a link, share information, call a phone number, or download an attachment which likely contains malware. In the case of an email or text, the link frequently leads to a form, which prompts the target to enter personal information. 

 

Tips to avoid online purchase and pet scams: 

  • Research before you buy. Always research businesses before you purchase, especially if you aren't familiar with the company. Check BBB.org. Read consumer reviews on other websites and do a quick online search for the business name along with the word "scam" to rule out any suspicious activity spotted by other consumers. 
  • Watch out for social media scamsCon artists love using social media to promote their scams. Some red flags include deals that seem too good to be true, phony personalized products, fake coupons, and product links that lead to questionable websites. Conduct a reverse image search on photos attached to ads.  
  • Only shop on secure sites. Make sure the website has “https” in the URL (the extra s is for “secure”) and a  small lock icon on  the address bar.  Even then, the site could be shady. 
  • Use a credit card. Credit cards often provide more protection against fraud than other payment methods.  
  • See pets in-person before paying any money.  

Tips to avoid employment scams: 

  • Research the job offer and verify the email address matches the actual company. Call or go directly to the actual company's website for contact information to verify the job posting. Be wary of a gmail business email address. 
  • Be cautious of work-from-home jobs that involve receiving and reshipping packages are likely scams. 
  • Be wary of job offers that don’t require an interview. Reputable companies prefer to talk to top job candidates before hiring them. 
  • Vague job descriptions and big money for small tasks is a red flag. These too-good-to-be-true offers are often an attempt to steal your personal information from a fake job application. 
  • Be cautious in providing personal information such as your full address,  birthdate and financial information in your resume or to unverified recruiters and online applications. 

Tips to avoid Phishing scams: 

  • Call the company directly or checking the company website directly. Don’t click on links in an unexpected email – type the URL for the company into the browser or do a web search to find the right website. 
  • Don’t click, download, or open anything that comes from an anonymous sender. This is likely an attempt to gain access to your personal information or install malware on your computer. 
  • Question generic emails. Scammers cast a wide net by including little or no specific information in their fake emails. Always be wary of unsolicited messages that don't contain your name, last digits of your account number or other personalizing information. 
  • Protect your computer by using security software. Set the software to update automatically so it will deal with any new security threats. 

Where to report scams: 

  • Better Business Bureau – BBB Scam Tracker 
  • Federal Trade Commission (FTC) – reportfraud.ftc.gov to file a complaint online or call 877-FTC-Help. 
  • Your credit card issuer – report the incident if you shared your credit card number, even if the transaction was not completed. Monitor your statements and if you suspect fraud, ask for a refund.???

Glaser put name on packed Michigan GOP Chair ticket

A number of people are running to become the next chairman of the Michigan Republican party.

 

They include: former Secretary of State candidate Kristina Karamo, Lena Epstein, former attorney general candidate Matt Deperno, Billy Putman and entrepreneur J.D. Glaser. Glaser says he still supports former President Donald Trump and believes he was cheated out of the 2020 election, however he's not sure who he will support for president in 2024.

 

The candidates will attend a candidate forum on January 9th.

Children's cold and flu medicine limited at some stores as RSV & Flu cases increase

Parents looking for cold and flu medicine for their children are seeing a lot of empty shelves.

 

The faster start to the flu season along with cases of RSV and other respiratory illnesses have created a surge in demand for Children's Tylenol and other medicines. Many stores like Meijer, CVS, Walgreens and Kroger are putting limits on how many people can buy. Doctors and other experts say the problem could persist through the winter cold-and-flu season.

 

Drugmaker Johnson & Johnson says it is not experiencing widespread shortages of Childrens Tylenol, but the product may be less readily available at some stores. The company said it is running its production lines around the clock.

Be prepared for the upcoming storm

The state is advising residents to be prepared in case the impeding winter storm knocks out power.

 

Tips include making sure you have extra batteries for a flashlight, ensuring your gas or wood-burning fireplace is in working order, and checking windows and doors to make sure they're properly insulated.

 

The state also says residents should NEVER try to thaw a pipe with a torch or open flame.

 

Officials advise people to fill their bathtub and spare containers with water in case pipes freeze.

 

Meanwhile, officials over at Consumers Energy are prepping for the impending storm that begins later today. 

 

President and CEO of Consumers Energy Garrick Rochow says they are ready for this storm and outages if they happen. 

 

"Our crews, our equipment, are materials, we will be ready." Rochow said. "It's not lost on me, that this is not a great time to lose power especially during the holidays, so I want customers know that we will restore power quickly and safely as possible."

 

Consumers Energy provided the following preparation tips for severe weather:

  • Charge all electronic devices. It’s advised to have an emergency battery or charging station available for use during an outage.
  • Have an emergency kit that includes flashlights and extra batteries, water, canned food and blankets. Be prepared with enough medication, baby supplies and pet food if applicable. A battery-operated radio is also a good idea.
  • Unplug sensitive electronics like TVs, computers and printers. Turn power strips off.

Consumers Energy also urges the public to keep these important storm safety tips in mind:

  • Stay at least 25 feet away from downed wires and anything they are touching, keep children or pets away, and report the issue by calling 9-1-1 and Consumers Energy at 800-477-5050.
  • A portable generator should be placed at least 25 feet away from any doors, windows or fresh air intakes. Never operate a generator inside your home, garage, basement or enclosed area. Proper ventilation is critical.
  • Be alert to crews working along slick roads. Drivers should slow down or stop and wait for oncoming traffic to clear so they safely can go past workers on roadsides.

 

Consumers Energy to study impacts of its dams on local communities

Consumers Energy is funding an independent study during the first half of 2023 to determine the contribution of its 13 river hydro facilities to local communities near those dams across Michigan. That study will build on information gathered during community engagement meetings held in 2022 to help determine the future of its dams.

“Consumers Energy is committed to being a good neighbor and working transparently as we make informed decisions to reach the best outcomes for our customers, stakeholders and the communities we serve,” said Norm Kapala, vice president of generation operations at Consumers Energy. “We know our dams play significant roles in Michigan, especially in the economies of the communities near our facilities, and we share with local leaders and others the desire to quantify those impacts before developing long term strategies regarding the future of those facilities.”

The 30- to 40-year federal licenses to operate the dams Consumers Energy owns and operates on the Muskegon, Manistee, Grand, Kalamazoo and Au Sable rivers are set to expire beginning in 2034.
Consumers Energy is considering four options for each of its 13 dams: Relicensing the river hydro dam and continue generating electricity, selling the dam to a third party, removing the dam, or replacing the dam with an alternative structure that maintains some level of reservoir.

The energy provider hired Public Sector Consultants (PSC), a Lansing-based nonpartisan consulting firm that specializes in public policy research to perform the economic study. PSC has longstanding expertise in studying energy and the environment, economic research, public engagement, and group facilitation. The firm conducted the 2022 community river hydro in-person listening sessions and will build on the feedback from those meetings for this current work.

PSC will begin by engaging each of the local communities to identify and review available data to ensure the studies find all contributing factors that influence the local economies around Consumers Energy’s dams. They will produce individual studies for each dam to better understand the unique economic contributions – including additional data on how the hydro facilities and their associated reservoirs contribute to the recreational and tax bases of the communities -- of all 13 hydro sites.

“A common theme we heard during our 27 community engagement meetings with communities and stakeholders is to know more about how much of the economic activity in the communities around our dams are associated with the hydro facilities,” said Kapala. “We have listened to the community members and we are working on this economic contribution study to answer those questions to better understand those impacts.”

Consumers Energy makes decisions based on the Triple Bottom Line that ensures benefits for people, the planet and Michigan’s prosperity. Factors Consumers Energy considers in determining the future for its dams include regulatory compliance, safety, community impacts, operating costs and environmental impacts.

For more information about the process to determine the future of Consumers Energy’s river hydro facilities, visit ConsumersEnergy.com/HydroFuture

First Responders Children's Foundation teams up with Newaygo Police to deliver toys to kids in need

First Responders Children’s Foundation (FRCF) has partnered with the City of Newaygo Police Department to bring toys to local children in need as part of the Foundation’s Toy Express, a national holiday program that delivers toys to children in 200 cities across the United States, with a focus on families who have lost a first responder parent in the line of duty. Toys are also sent to public safety agencies and hospitals to help first responders build positive relationships in the communities they serve.

 

“First Responders Children’s Foundation is excited to partner with the Newaygo Police Department to bring holiday cheer to children and families in need,” said First Responders Children’s Foundation President and CEO Jillian Crane. “First responders put their lives on the line every day, and we want them and their families to know how much we value their selfless service. Our annual Toy Express is one small way we can give back and help first responder agencies strengthen the bonds between them and the communities they serve.”

 

FRCF was founded in 2001 in the immediate aftermath of September 11th for the 800 surviving children who lost a first responder parent on that tragic day. Since then, FRCF has grown to be a national non-profit focusing on four key program areas: scholarships for children of first responders injured or killed in the line of duty; Financial Assistance Grants/Line of Duty Death Bereavement Support; a Mental Health Resiliency Program; and First Responder Community Engagement.

 

FRCF’s 2022 Toy Express corporate partners include CSX, Spin Master, Sago Mini, Mattel, Under Armour, Jazwares, SERVPRO, SB Projects, NSI, BitOGenius and Good360.

 

Transportation is donated by the Schneider Foundation.

 

Visit www.1stRCF.org to learn how you can help support this year’s program.

 

BRDN catches up with Ferris State following second national championship in football

In front of the largest championship crowd in McKinney ISD Stadium last Saturday, Ferris State earned the program’s second championship victory after defeating Colorado School of Mines 41-14.


It was the first Division II team to successfully defend their championship rings since Northwest Missouri State completed the feat defeating North Alabama in 2016 and fellow semifinalist Shepherd in 2015.


The Bulldogs began the season as the pre-season number one ranked team and successfully defended their 2021 championship, in which they avenged their 2018 loss to Valdosta State in dominating fashion 58-17.


“Our biggest strength was our defense,” Senior defensive lineman Jordan Jones said. “There was never a game we went into that we weren’t prepared. I have to give credit to our coaches and offensive scout team. They did great all year.”


Ferris State used their stout run defense to hold the Orediggers’ to only four yards rushing, including 10 tackles for loss as well as six sacks and two interceptions on Harlon Hill winning quarterback John
Matocha.


The Bulldogs outgained the Orediggers in total yards 432 to 212, with 218 yards passing and 214 yards rushing. Similar to the 2021 game, Ferris State dominated the first half by a score of 27-0 and were able to carry the lead through the final 30 minutes to hoist the school’s second national championship trophy.


“We felt very confident going into the locker room (at halftime),” Jones said. “Our defense was ‘lights
out,’ and our offense was rolling.”


While the streak of 43 straight regular season wins was snapped against rival Grand Valley State in week six, Ferris State avenged the 22-21 home loss with a 24-21 road win against the Lakers in the Super Regional Championship. They also defeated West Florida in the National semifinal, who knocked them out of a potential National Championship appearance in 2019.


“Revenge is sweet,” Jones said. “I'm proud that we got all three of those games back and I';m glad that
we're back to back national champions.”


For National Championship apparel and gear, visit https://bsnteamsports.com/shop/fsunatty22.

Three vehicle accident in Big Rapids Twp. injures one driver

A Three vehicle accident in Mecosta County left one driver with minor injuries.

 

It happened Friday in front of the Walmart Store in Big Rapids. Deputies say a 34-year old woman from Baldwin lost control of her vehicle while leaving the parking lot causing a 26-year old man from Big Rapids to collide with her. The Big Rapids man then collided with another vehicle being driven by a 62-year old man from Paris.

 

The Big Rapids driver was taken to the Big Rapids Spectrum Health Hospital for treatment. 

Mt. Pleasant mom accused of catfishing daughter

A Central Michigan mother is accused of cat-fishing her own daughter and her daughter's boyfriend.

 

Police say Kendra Licari of Mount Pleasant sent hundreds of harassing texts and social media messages over the course of about a year.

 

Licari's accused of using special software to create fake numbers, so the messages seemed to be coming from her daughter's classmates.

 

She faces multiple charges, including stalking, and is scheduled for arraignment Tuesday.

Big Rapids Birthing Center releases Top Baby Names of 2022

While Olivia and Liam may be the most popular baby names of 2022 nationally, the story is different locally.

 

Walker dethroned the popular Jack for the top boy name of 2022 after holding the number one spot for four years on the list at Big Rapids Hospital Family Birthing Center.

 

Natalie claimed the most popular name for girls, replacing Ella, Peyton and Madeline in 2021.

 

As of this week, 403 babies were born at Corewell Health™, formerly Spectrum Health, Big Rapids Hospital in 2022, down slightly from the 2021 total.

Tied for second place for girl names was:

  • ? Ruby
  • ? Kinsley
  • ? Sophia
  • ? Aniyah
  • ? Paisley
  • ? Eliza
  • ? Ryleigh/Rylee
  • ? Ella
  • ? Willow
  • ? Emberly

For boys’ names, there was a three-way tie for second most popular:

  • ? Oliver
  • ? William
  • ? Hudson

Two names tied for third most popular:

  • ? Amelia
  • ? Lily
  • ? Emma
  • ? Raelyn
  • ? Evelyn
  • ? Everleigh
  • ? Sadie
  • ? Harley
  • ? Hazel
  • ? Wynter

Two names tied for third most popular:

  • ? Eli/Elijah
  • ? Henry

 

 

Susan P. Wheatlake Regional Cancer Center Completes Pharmacy Expansion

Patients from across central and northern Michigan will benefit from increased access after a $3 million pharmacy expansion at the Corewell Health™, formerly Spectrum Health, Susan P. Wheatlake Regional Cancer Center in Reed City.

 


The expansion is part of a larger $14.9 million project that will renovate all hazardous compounding spaces in Corewell Health facilities across West Michigan. The addition of a second chemotherapy hood along with an additional exam room will support meeting the growing needs of the 35 to 50 patients who visit the cancer center each day for chemotherapy and other infusion therapy.


“The expansion improves services available for patients in our communities,” said cancer
center operations manager Samantha Triplett. “This allows improved patient access for
outpatient services to keep people out of emergency rooms and hospitals.”


In addition to chemotherapy, the pharmacy supports treatment of outpatient immunotherapy
infusions, iron infusion and hydration for obstetric or post-surgical patients. The pharmacy expansion includes new redundant air handling equipment for team members’ safety, new compounding hoods, a separate HVAC system and more space for team members
and other equipment.


“The expansion gives us more space for better organization of supplies, improved equipment
and allows for growth in the future, both for patient care, more medication supplies on hand, as
well as possible increased staffing in the future,” Triplett said.


The center’s old pharmacy space is being renovated into a new clinical space and one exam
room to meet patient demand.


“We have patients that come from all over Michigan, including the upper peninsula, to receive
treatment at our facility,” Triplett said. “We serve such a wide range of communities. It’s
amazing how many patients make the drive to our location.”

Ice storm knocks out power to 2,200 residents around Mecosta County

With the ice storm over night in the west-central Michigan region, power outages are affecting Mecosta County residents this morning. 

 

Consumers Energy says outages in Green, Big Rapids, Mecosta and Wheatland Townships have affected over 2,200 people. 

 

The utility says it estimates power to be restored by 2-3pm this afternoon. 

Big Rapids Township hosts informational meeting addressing questions regarding Gotion Inc.

Getting questions answered. Big Rapids township officials held an informational meeting for the public to address questions that residents as well as local city, township and county officials have in regards to Gotion Inc project coming to the area.


 

Big Rapids Township officials including Supervisor Bill Stanek, Clerk Hannah Saez, Trustee Carman Bean and Treasurer Penny Currie made presentations to attendees to address concerns the public had with the information they currently have.


 

Ferris State University President Dr. Bill Pink spoke in favor of the advanced battery manufacturer coming to the area as a positive for the community and university. Big Rapids Public Schools Superintendent Tim Haist spoke in favor of Gotion coming to the area and the positive impact it could have on future BRPS students who are not looking to go to college but looking into a skilled trade and when they graduate could be set up with a job after graduation. Haist also spoke about the potential expansion of BRPS due to the impact of the amount of hires and families coming to the area. 


 

During the public comment portion there were residents who expressed support for Gotion coming to the area and how it would bring jobs, expand population, potential new businesses coming to the area, new construction of homes and more.

 

Other residents expressed caution, concerns of Gotion Inc. being a Chinese founded company, environmental concerns and other what if's regarding the future of lithium ion batteries.

 

Click HERE for Big Rapids Township questions and answers page

 

Click HERE for the presentation from 12/14/22

 


 

Ten16 Recovery Network hosting open house at new Big Rapids outpatient services location

The Ten16 Recovery Network serving those with addictions around the area has moved its outpatient services building to be more centrally located in Big Rapids. 


 

The original outpatient services building was located on 19 Mile Road since 2007 but has now moved to 150 S. Stewart Ave. in Big Rapids.  


 

Chief Program Officer and Community Engagement Manager, Christa Galer said the new location will allow those struggling with addictions or those who think they may be headed in the wrong direction with substances to come into a safe positive environment to learn and recover from their addiction.  


 

"For those who have been struggling, we have a wellness advocate who will talk to them about where they are at in their recovery, what their interests are, if they want to start making changes,  helping them connect to community resources and even navigate the treatment process for the individual." Galer said. 


 

"At our outpatient services building we have peer support services with a recovery coach who talks about a number of topics with groups and also will help those walk-ins who are struggling and they need to help navigating where to go or who to call. We also have counseling services for both groups or individuals or if you are a person in recovery that is having a bad day and struggling they can come in and hang out for a bit " Galer added. 


 

The new outpatient building will be hosting an open house on December 15th, from 3pm-6pm which will allow attendees to get a look at the new facility and everything they have to offer. 

Newaygo man arrested following stabbing incident

A Newaygo man is being held on $500,000 bond after allegedly stabbing three men at a Montcalm Co. home after an altercation at the Amble Bar over the weekend.

 

 

30-year old Al Daniel Thompson was arraigned on Monday after being arrested on Sunday afternoon. He is charged with three felony counts of assault with a dangerous weapon.

 

According to the Michigan State Police Lakeview Post, Thompson was in a verbal altercation at the Amble Bar in Winfield Township on Saturday night. After the alleged incident, Thompson then went to the residence of the person or people involved where the altercation became physical and three men were stabbed.

 

Two men were taken to the hospital for treatment. A third man was treated on scene for non-life-threatening injuries.

 

All three victims are in stable condition.

Water main break in Big Rapids; officials estimate repairs completed at end of the day

The City of Big Rapids announced there is a water main break on the 400th block of Fuller Avenue, Monday, Dec. 14th. 

 

Officials say if you live in the area of town, you may experince low water pressure. 

 

Areas that are effected include: 400-600 blocks of Division Street, 300-400 blocks of Fuller Avenue, and the Rapids Apartments.

 

Officials say service will be fully restored by the end of the day.

Big Rapids Township to host Gotion Inc project update on Dec. 14th

Big Rapids Township will be hosting an informational meeting Wednesday night for the public in regards to the Gotion Inc. project as it currently stands.

 

Back in October, officials from Big Rapids and Green Townships and the Mecosta County Board of Commission voted unanimously make a 400 acre portion of the industrial park a renaissance zone in order to bring Gotion in.

 

 

During that meeting, officials with the advanced battery manufacturer told attendees and local officials they plan on investing $2.6 billion dollars along with a minimum of 200 jobs coming once the plant opens, with a full 2,300 coming over the next decade.

 

The meeting starts at 7pm at the Mecosta County Services Building on 14485 Northand Drive at the north entrance door 3.

Two arrested in drug bust

Police in Mecosta County say a months long investigation has netted two people accused of distribution of meth.

 

The Mecosta County Sheriff's Office says 32-year old Joseph Berwanger, of Paris and 32-year old Appollonia Impellizzeri, of Big Rapids, were arrested this week on charges of Delivery of Methamphetamine, Possession of Methamphetamine, and Maintaining and Operating a Drug House.

 

They were arraigned in the 77th District Court on the charges where their total bonds were set at $100,000 cash / surety.

 

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

Police searching for suspect connected to a string of thefts in Lake & Osceola Counties

The Lake County Sheriff's Department is asking for the public's help in locating a suspect accused of stealing dozens of items from places around Lake and Osceola Counties.


The Sheriff's Office says deputies recovered dozens of stolen items from two separate properties this week. They are still searching for the 44-year-old Luther man accused of stealing the items.


On Monday, deputies searched a home on East 4 Mile Road in Ellsworth Township after getting a tip. They found a snowmobile, a side-by-side ATV, a moped, building materials and more items that had been reported stolen in Lake and Osceola County. On Tuesday, deputies found two more stolen snowmobiles and a trailer on North Hawkins Road in Dover Township.


Anyone with information on the the suspect or incidents should contact the Lake County Sheriff’s Office at 231-745-2712.

 

Here is a list of reported stolen items recovered: 

 

If you believe you are the owner of the listed items, the Lake Co. Sheirff's Office asks that you provide an Incident Report from a Law Enforcement Agency. They will also ask that you identify the item by the item number indicated on the attached sheet, and provide some or all of the following:

 

1) Manufacturer

2) Make/Model

3) Serial Number

4) Color

5) Identifying marks, initials, etc.

 

Please note that the evidence listed will not be released until it the case has concluded or the release is authorized by the Prosecutor's Office.

 

You may contact D/Lt. Brad Nixon or Detective Pat Hedlund at (231) 745-2712 in regards to the attached property list.

 

 

Consumers Energy to conduct siren tests near Rogers, Hardy and Croton Dams December 14

Consumers Energy announced the emergency public warning siren systems near its Rogers, Hardy and Croton hydroelectric generating plants on the Muskegon River will be tested on Wednesday, December 14, at about 9 a.m.

  • The test will include a voice message, a 30-second siren and a second voice message. The public does not need to take any action during the test. The siren systems are tested each August and December.
  • The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission requires hydroelectric facilities to be able to quickly notify residents and visitors of any developing emergency at the plants.
  • In an emergency, the sirens would be used only if the threat of a dam failure is imminent at one of the facilities. At that time, anyone on or near the river should evacuate at once to high ground. Additional information would be provided on local radio and television stations.

Consumers Energy reminds those who visit dams in the winter that ice on a reservoir near a hydroelectric facility is not reliable and should be avoided by snowmobilers, anglers and others. Also, ice-covered water down river from a hydroelectric facility should never be considered a safe place to walk.

Newaygo Co. man guilty of son's murder

A White Cloud man has been found guilty of killing his son last year.

 

70-year old Darrell Dean Dakan was accused in the shooting death of his son, 38-year old Joshua Dakan on Dec. 27, 2021 following an argument. 

The elder Dakan allegedly accused his son of leaving a cable across his driveway, which damaged his pickup truck. They argued and the father grabbed a rifle and aimed it at his son, according to testimony.

 

Dakan was found guilty of second-degree murder and weapons felony firearm.

 

The 70-year old White Cloud man faces life in prison when he is sentenced in January.

Reed City Police Weekly Blotter 11/28-12/4

Monday…11/28
Officer took a report of a High School student who had stolen a box of fundraiser candy bars. The matter has been referred to the prosecutor and probate court.


Officer found 2 High School students in possession of Vape devices. The students were given citations.


Tuesday …11/29
Officer was given a cell phone found on the street. The phone was returned to the owner.
Officer assisted a local business with serving a trespass notice on an individual suspected of stealing
merchandise.


Officer arrested a 31 yr old male that violated his parole.


Officer investigated a series of threatening messages that a woman received from a family member. The matter has been forwarded to the prosecutor for review


Wednesday …11/30

Liaison officer issued a citation to a Reed City Middle School student in possession of 2 vape devices.
Officer investigated an accidental 911 call from the school. The students phone accidently dialed in their pocket when sat on.


Officer responded to a call for loud noises at an apartment complex. Upon arrival the officer did not hear excessive noise from the apartment in question.


Liaison officer responded to a call about a student smoking marijuana in the bathroom. The student was issued a citation.


Officer was dispatched to a home to respond to an out of control special needs juvenile. The officer was able to talk to and calm the juvenile.


Thursday …12/1

Officer responded to a call about firewood being stolen from the ice rink.


Officer was requested to assist CPS with a check well being on some children. The mother’s boyfriend was uncooperative. The woman and her children were later located and verified to be okay
Officer responded to a call from Reed City High School about a student in possession of a marijuana vape device. The juvenile was issued a citation.

 

Officer responded to a call about some noise at an apartment complex. The noise was the foot steps of the child in the above apartment. There was no criminal violation.


Officers took a report of an individual who was possibly suicidal. The individual agreed to seek medical help.


Friday …12/2

 The liaison officer issued a citation to a teen for being in possession of a vape device.
Officer responded to a call about a man making suicidal comments. The man was taken voluntarily for medical treatment


Saturday …12/3

Officer responded to a wellbeing check, which resulted on the arrest of a 31yr old female on a warrant.


Sunday …12/4

Officer was called to a residence with an open door, after investigation the door was left opened by home owner.


Officer was called to a home with a custody dispute. Both parties were advised to file for hearing or work it out civilly.


Officer responded to a call about a man making suicidal comments. The man denied being suicidal and was discovered to be in another State.

Hospice of Michigan receives grant from General Federation of Women's Club in Mecosta County

Hospice of Michigan, the state’s original and largest not-for-profit hospice provider, has received a $1,000 grant from General Federation of Women's Club (GFWC) – Mecosta “Heart of the Lakes.” The grant will benefit Hospice of Michigan’s We Honor Veterans program in Mecosta County and surrounding communities.

 

As a Level IV partner in the We Honor Veterans program, a collaboration through the National Hospice & Palliative Care Organization and the Veterans Administration, Hospice of Michigan is specially trained to address the unique needs of veterans at end of life. Throughout the year, Hospice of Michigan organizes special activities/events and partners with community organizations to honor veterans, including pinning ceremonies, award/medal presentations and other last wishes of veteran patients.

 

Veterans account for nearly 25% of Hospice of Michigan’s patients. In 2021, Hospice of Michigan served 188 patients in Mecosta County, with 19% of these patients being veterans.

 

“Hospice of Michigan is specifically trained to support the unique needs of veterans. Providing these brave men and women with quality of life at the end of life is the very least we can do to thank them for their service and sacrifice,” said Roxanne Kiesling, philanthropy manager for Hospice of Michigan. “This grant from the GFWC – Mecosta ‘Heart of the Lakes’ will help us continue to provide the very best care for these heroes who have fought for our freedom.”

 

The GFWC is an international women’s organization dedicated to community improvement by enhancing the lives of others through volunteer service. Hospice of Michigan’s funding source was issued by GFWC – Mecosta “Heart of the Lakes” grant program, which is intended to support community groups in Mecosta County.

 

For more information about the services Hospice of Michigan offers in Mecosta County and throughout the state, visit hom.org.

Minimum wage in Michigan set to increase in 2023

n January 1, 2023, Michigan's minimum wage rate will increase from $9.87 to $10.10 per hour as set by Michigan's Improved Workforce Opportunity Wage Act of 2018 establishing the annual schedule of increases.

 

Effective January 1, 2023:

  • The minimum hourly wage will increase to $10.10 per hour.
  • The 85% rate for minors aged 16 and 17 will increase to $8.59 per hour.
  • The tipped employee rate of hourly pay increases to $3.84 per hour.
  • The training wage of $4.25 per hour for newly hired employees ages 16 to 19 for their first 90 days of employment remains unchanged. 

There is pending litigation that might affect this minimum wage increase:

  • In 2018, a petition initiative organized by One Fair Wage sought to allow voters to decide on raising Michigan’s minimum wage to $12 an hour by 2022 and raise the minimum wage for tipped workers to 80% of the standard minimum wage in 2022, 90% in 2023 and ultimately match it in 2024.
  • The Legislature adopted the legislation and then amended it in 2018, putting in lower wage thresholds that increased the minimum wage to $12.05 by 2030 instead of 2022 and kept the tipped minimum wage at 38% of the standard one. As a result, the state's current hourly minimum wage is $9.87 and $3.75 for workers who are expected to make up the difference in tips.
  • The Legislature’s amendment has been challenged in court as unconstitutional. On July 19, 2022, the Court of Claims issued a decision that agreed with that challenge and voided the amended versions of the Michigan Improved Workforce Opportunity Wage Act and Paid Medical Leave Act in favor of their original, unamended versions. 
  • On July 29, 2022, the Court of Claims entered an order staying the effect of this decision until February 19, 2023, to give employers and the relevant state agencies time to accommodate the changes required by the ruling.
  • The Court of Claims’ ruling has been appealed. Pending final resolution of the appeal, and lifting of the stay, under the potential implementation of the originally adopted petition, the minimum wage rate for 2023 would be $13.03 and $11.73 for tipped employees.

For further information regarding the pending minimum wage litigation, and potential amended minimum wage rates as a result of that litigation, or a copy of the Improved Workforce Opportunity Wage Act and related resources, including the required poster, visit Michigan.gov/WageHour.

Deer Cull to be conducted in Big Rapids

Once again, the city of Big Rapids and USDA are teaming up to conduct a deer cull within city limits.

 

Big Rapids Commissioners recently approved a resolution for the deer cull. Total cost for this deer cull is just under $20,000

 

The primary concern is the destruction of private property the deer caused by eating plats, flowers, and shrubs and traffic accidents.

 

According to the resolution, USDA Wildlife officials from Dec. 1st through March 31st, 2023 will target areas in the city including Ives Avenue, N. Fourth Avenue, and N Dekrafft Avenue, and the residential areas include “The Flats”, the wooded area near the 500th through 1000th blocks of Woodward Avenue, and adjoining streets along Woodward Avenue.

 

Ferris State University is also in agreement to allow a portion of the cull to occur on their property during the winter break.

 

The goal is to take up to 75 deer during this cull.

 

 

Mecosta Co. Sheriff's Office Blotter 12/2-12-4

12/2

At 12:55am,  deputies responded to a traffic stop on Northland Dr/ 6 Mile Rd. Aetna Twp. Female driver crashed her vehicle, avoiding a deer. After investigation , the driver was arrested for OWI 1st and lodged at 54 without incident. 

 

At 6:46pm, deputies responded to a vehicle fire, on Northland/12 Mile Rd. big Rapids TWP.  Male subject noticed ball bearing area of the vehicle smoking.  The vehicle caught on fire. BRTF responded and put the fire out.

 

At 5:51pm, deputies made a warrant arrest, in Chippewa TWP.  The male subject was lodged on the warrant out of Mecosta County.

 

At 4:11pm, deputies responded to a larceny from a motor vehicle complaint, at a residence on 10th Ave, in Fork TWP. Male caller was away from his property for two weeks and during that time someone came and cut the catalytic converter off one of his vehicles. Spoke with neighbors and they stated they haven’t seen anyone.

 

Calls for service 10

Car/deer 1

 

12/3

At 10:03pm,  deputies responded to a mental health complaint, at a residence on Townline Lake Rd, Colfax Twp. Male subject was having thoughts of hurting himself and a friend was able to stop him and called 911. The male subject was transported to Spectrum Health Big Rapids for volunteer mental eval. 

 

Calls for service 8

Car/deer accidents 1

 

12/4

At 9:41pm,  deputies responded to a civil complaint, at a residence on 1 Mile Rd. Millbrook Twp. Female and her boyfriend got into a verbal argument. Nothing physical. Parties were suppurated and male subject was trespassed from the residence. 

 

Accidents 1

Car/deer accidents 2

Calls for service 5 

 

 

Reed City Police Weekly Blotter: 11/21-11/27

Monday…11/21
Officers took a report of a verbal argument between juveniles where one threatened the other. Officers found no immediate threat.


The school liaison officer took a report of several juveniles being in possession of vape devices. The matter was looked into and no vapes were found.


Tuesday …11/22
The school liaison officer took a report of several juveniles being in possession of vape devices. The matter was looked into and no vapes were found.


Officers took a report of a man the caller found to be suspicious walking near the library. Officers checked the area but did not locate anyone matching the given description.


Officers took a report of a man sitting in his vehicle for an extended period of time in Westerburg Park. The man was checked on and found to have been kicked out of his girlfriend’s house. He made arrangements with a friend for a place to stay.


Wednesday …11/23
Officers assisted with a wounded deer that had been struck by a car.


Officers were requested to investigate a report of possible child abuse with CPS. The matter was unfounded.


Officers accompanied CPS to check the well being of a child.


Officers arrested a 31-year-old man for violating his parole by consuming alcohol and drugs.


Friday …11/25
Officers were dispatched to a noise complaint. The individuals quieted down and no further problems were reported.


Officers were dispatched to a computer fraud scam. The victim reported he had received a pop up on his screen telling him to contact a well-known computer tech service. He was instructed to purchase gift cards and it resulted in having to have his computer professionally wiped as the scammer had locked him out.


Saturday …11/26
Officers stood by with a broken down motorist for safety until the tow truck was able to arrive.


Sunday …11/27
Officers assisted the Osceola County Sheriff Office with a dispute between intoxicated individuals at a deer camp.


Officers were requested to perform a well being check on a child. All was okay.

 

Officers arrested a 24-year-old woman on an outstanding warrant for Contempt of Court. She was lodged at the Osceola County Jail.

Michigan GOP Chair candidate list expands Kristina Karamo announces intentions to run

The race to become the leader of the Michigan Republican Party continues to get more crowded.

 

Kristina Karamo, the former GOP secretary of state candidate, has announced her bid to become party chair.

 

Karamo joins former GOP attorney general candidate Matt DePerno, who's also running to be the state's top Republican. Karamo lost to incumbent secretary of state Jocelyn Benson during the November election.

 

Pete Hoekstra, a former west Michigan Republican congressman and ambassador to the Netherlands under former President Donald Trump is also considering a run.

 

Former GOP gubernatorial candidate Tudor Dixon also says she's considering a run at party chair.

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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?