Ferris State University quarterback Trinidad Chambliss has been chosen as a 2024 nominee for the Harlon Hill Trophy as the Division II College Football Player of the Year.

Chambliss, who this year was tabbed as the Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference Player of the Year and has led the Bulldogs to the NCAA Division II Playoffs, is among 43 student-athletes from across the country on this year's candidate list.

Chambliss, a junior from Grand Rapids, guided the nation's top-ranked Bulldogs to their first GLIAC Championship since 2021. The standout signal caller claimed the GLIAC Offensive Player of the Week honors five times this year and also earned the D2Football.com National Offensive Player of the Week Award.

Chambliss directed one of the nation's top offensive attacks, leading Ferris State to 10-straight wins to close out the regular-season following a season-opening setback at Pittsburg State.

This year, Chambliss has accounted for 33 touchdowns, including 19 in the air and 14 on the ground. He's completed 169 of 276 passes for 2,203 yards while leading the Bulldogs' rushing attack with 615 yards on 107 carries.

His play has helped the Bulldogs roll up 41.7 points per game along with 477.6 yards of total offense a contest. The team earned the top seed in Super Region Three and a first-round playoff bye.

Chambliss is one of 11 honorees from Super Region Three to be named a nominee for the prestigious award.

Nine nominees come from Super Region One with 12 from Super Region Two and 11 from Super Region Four in addition to the 11 from Super Region Three.

Sports information directors from the 159 NCAA Division II football-playing institutions nominate and vote on the award. The 43 candidates will be placed on regional ballots and the top two players from each of the four NCAA regions will advance to the national ballot when regional voting concludes on Monday, Dec. 2.

The sports information directors at their respective schools initially nominate candidates. The directors in those Super Regions vote for their top five candidates. The winner is then determined in a nationwide vote of the Division II sports information directors.

The group of 43 candidates includes 16 quarterbacks, nine running backs, six wide receivers, four defensive linemen, three defensive backs, two linebackers, a fullback, a return specialist and a kicker. The list features 24 seniors, 17 juniors and two sophomores.

The winner of the 2024 award will be announced on Friday, Dec. 20.

The Hill Trophy is named for the late Harlon Hill - the former University of North Alabama standout - who excelled with the Detroit Lions from 1950-53 before going on to fame with the Chicago Bears.

Former Ferris State quarterback Jason Vander Laan was a two-time Harlon Hill Trophy recipient as the country's top player in both 2014 and 2015. Ferris State quarterback Jayru Campbell claimed the distinction in 2018.

Ferris State is one of only three schools in the country to have won the award a nation-leading three times along with Texas A&M-Kingsville and Valdosta State universities.

Ferris State will host Central Oklahoma in the second round of the NCAA Division II Playoffs on Saturday, Nov. 30, at Top Taggart Field. Kickoff is set for 12 p.m. Tickets can be purchased in advance online at FerrisStateBulldogs.com/Tickets.

Release and photo courtesy of Ferris State University.

The Detroit Lions ended their Thanksgiving Day losing streak Thursday after defeating the Chicago Bears 23-20 in Ford Field.

The narrow victory was the first for the Lions since 2016 on "Turkey Day," as well as their tenth straight win this season.

Detroit dominated early in the game thanks to efficient offensive play and numerous third down conversions, while the Bears struggled and only managed two first downs in the first half. Thankfully for Bears fans, their defense stepped up to hold the Lions to one touchdown in the redzone in four trips and keep the scoreline 16-0.

In the second half, Chicago mounted a comeback thanks to some key adjustments and rhythm in the passing game. The Bears scored 20 points in the second half and had a chance to tie or win the game in the final moments; however, they were unable to manage the clock effectively and ran out of time to give the Lions the win.

Quarterback Jared Goff finished 21 of 34 for 221 yards and two touchdowns passing on connections with tight end Sam Laporta. Running back David Montgomery accumulated 88 rushing yards with Jahmyr added 87. Amon-Ra St. Brown led the Lions receiving with 73 yards on five catches.

The Lions move to 11-1 with their tenth straight win, while the Bears fall to 4-8 after suffering their sixth consecutive setback. Detroit will face Green Bay at Ford Field next Thursday at 8:15 P.M., where the Lions look for a season sweep over the Packers after the Week 9 win at Lambeau Field. 

Full game coverage will begin on NewsRadio WBRN starting at 7:10 P.M. on 1460 AM and 96.5 FM.

A Winter Weather Advisory has been issued by NWS Grand Rapids office for Lake, Mason, Newaygo, Oceana, and Osceola Counties.

The advisory was issued on Thursday, Nov. 28 at 1:59 P.M. and will remain in effect until Saturday, Nov. 30 at 7:00 A.M.

Snowfall is expected with accumulations between two and four inches. The hazardous conditions could impact the Friday morning and evening commutes, especially for heavy travelled freeways and also less-travelled back roads. Please plan on slippery road conditions and use caution while traveling.

LIONS HEAD COACH DAN CAMPBELL QUOTE SHEET

November 26, 2024

Opening Statement: “After full practice yesterday, pads, everything (laughs), injury report’s pretty much the same. So, a lot of guys questionable.”

On if there is increased optimism in Lions WR Kalif Raymond, Lions T Taylor Decker and Lions CB Carlton Davis III playing on Thursday: “Nope.”

On Lions WR Jameson Williams avoiding gun charges for his incident in October and if he had a message for him: “Well, we talked about this – honestly this was – we had this conversation with Jamo back, I guess right before his suspension started, somewhere in there. So, this has been talked about, we’re all good. ‘Hey, you got to be mindful of where you’re at, be on top of your details, get that all eyes are on you.’ And he’s good. We hit it and he understands that.”

On if Lions WR Jameson Williams understands how serious his legal situation was: “Yeah, I think he does. I do, I think every one of these that come up, you don’t want them to come up, but I do think that he’s learning and he’s growing from these. I do. So, yeah, I do. I do.”

On waiving Lions DL James Houston after it did not work out: “It just didn’t. We had James up for a number of games, came back off the injury and got back, and it just never quite worked out. And look, wish him the best of luck and sometimes you just need a fresh start, and this could be great for him. So, wish him the best.”

On if he is still trying to figure out who will return punts: “Yeah, we are. I’m still trying to think about that because part of me says let’s just use (Lions WR Amon-Ra St. Brown) Saint again because he is the most reliable, so we may just do that. You know what, we’re going to do that. We’re going to do that.”

On if he is confident in Lions WR Amon-Ra St. Brown playing in the Bears game: “Yeah, I feel pretty good about Saint, actually. Well, I’ll know more today. But you asked me about the three that I talked about yesterday and I don’t feel as good about those.”

On an injury update on Lions RB David Montgomery: “I feel pretty good about David, yeah. Like I said after full pads yesterday and full tilt practice, it looked good.”

On if he could have kept Lions RB David Montgomery out of the Bears game if he wanted to: “Oh heck no, are you kidding me? No, no, no. And look, David last week was – he wanted to get back in that game. He was good and I held him back just to be on the safe side and he was not happy.”

On the injury prognosis for Lions WR Kalif Raymond: “We are still waiting on a second opinion.”

On if there is a concern that Lions WR Kalif Raymond’s injury is season-ending: “Could be, but I don’t know that for sure. I don’t want to – the first word we got was positive, we’re just waiting on a second opinion.”

On how much the players want to break the Thanksgiving losing streak: “Yeah, there again I kind of present it like – well I think there’s two things. Number one, get a W, right and it’s a division win that’s why this is huge. Number two is because the players are going to get a couple of days off. So, they have family, friends in, it’d be nice to feel good about it when you’re with everybody because it’s just not real fun. It’s not real fun to be around. Ask my wife, she’ll tell you. Like that’s why she’s praying for a win big time because she knows that I’m a bear when we don’t win, so we all want it. It is long overdue, but we have to win to win.”

On if he is getting a kick out of his wife’s larger social media presence: “Alright, that’s it. I’m done. I’m done answering those. I shouldn’t have opened that up.”

On if he has seen anything be schematically different in the Bears’ offense after changing coordinators mid-season: “There’s not necessarily – there is more quick game. There’s a lot more quick game, get the ball out, pretty simple progressions that he’s doing really well with. You watch him, bam, bam, bam, he’s working across the board, flipping his hips, processes it pretty fast, and if it’s not there then he takes off. I kind of mentioned there is some shift, motions, perfect plays, kills, so there’s a little bit of that that’s different than it was but they’re still doing some of the same things. So, I think they just – they’re trying to give him the best opportunity to have success or with any offense as much as you can. ‘We get this look, this is what we run. We get the other, we go to this, or I give you the ability to give an alert. Or this is the best route out here to my three-man side versus Cover 2, Cover 1, press on one, off on two.’ Whatever that is, so that helps because now you’re not worried about, ‘I got to call this and run it against anything they could possibly give me. I know what it is and it’s the best opportunity to have success.’”

On what has impressed him the most about Bears QB Caleb Williams in his first year: “It’s not easy for any quarterback coming into this League, I don’t care who you are. Everything happens so much faster. The athletes, the looks that you get, the amount of separation or the lack of amount of separation that you had in college. So, those get on you, it takes a minute. And in between knowing protections, ‘Am I hot on this, what’s the look, I know this is a disguise, I don’t know if this is a disguise, the nickel is coming.’ There’s just a lot and so what I’ve been impressed with is just he has grown, he has grown every game but these last two I really feel like he’s taken off and what they’re doing with him has been really good for him and he just looks very composed. He doesn’t get frazzled, plays pretty fast, and he’s an accurate passer, big arm, and he’s got some guys that can get open for him.”

On what he has seen out of Lions RB Sione Vaki on special teams: “Listen, Vaki is a pretty good special teams player for us. We had a lot of high hopes for him in that regard for us. We felt like in the meantime while he’s learning to play the halfback position, because he’s kind of new and it’s something that he hasn’t done a lot of, that special teams would be an area that he would help us, and he’s done that. He’s a four-core guy for us because he does – special teams he plays like a safety which is what he was in college. So, he’s growing, he’s continuing, we slowly try to give him a couple of plays in the offense just to help him, but he’s been an asset. And I go back to this, if you can get him to the game then you can use him in other areas. So, he’s been able to do that, and we like him a lot. We like him a lot.”

On if there is consideration in moving Lions CB Amik Robertson outside if Lions CB Carlton Davis III does not play Thursday: “We talked about it. It’s up for discussion. It’s hard to say, there again, on a walkthrough – alright I let the cat out of the bag, we really didn’t go full speed in pads yesterday. It’s hard to do that, but all things are on the table. It’s not like Amik’s never played outside. He can go out there and not bat an eye and then you move (Lions CB Emmanuel Moseley) E-man inside which is great. So, we have all option on the table. We’re not afraid to play (Lions CB Khalil) Dorsey with (Lions CB Kindle) Vildor or whatever the case is. We’ve got options and we feel good about all of them.”

On Lions QB Hendon Hooker’s development throughout the year and how comfortable he is with him at backup: “He’s progressed, he’s progressed which is – we told him from day one, we just need growth. We need you to grow every week and we’ve given him opportunities in practice, good on good, to run our offense and as much as we can put him under pressure, we’ve done that, and I would say he’s progressed. That’s the best way to say it. Every guy grows at his own rate and he’s growing. Listen, if the time comes, he’s got to be ready to play. Period. It doesn’t matter whether he’s ready or not. He’ll go in there and there’s things that he does well and those are things that we would call that I think he’ll have success with, and you go from there.”

On if Lions QB Hendon Hooker is progressing at the rate that he wants for a developmental quarterback: “Sure, sure. Any growth is good with me. That’s all. You just want to know that he’s getting better in all the little, small areas to playing the quarterback position. I think there’s so many things when it comes to that, it’s you want it all. Everybody wants it all and it just doesn’t work that way. You just want to know, ‘Hey man, you can get in there, you can command the offense, get us in the right play, everybody’s going to look at you and know that you know your stuff and they can trust you.’ Now is it going to be perfect? No, it doesn’t need to be. There’s a way that we can play the game if it comes to that too. And I do feel him growing and that’s all that you can ask for.”

On if they are considering signing free agent QB Daniel Jones: “We haven’t really talked about that. The name’s come up but it’s not like we’ve sat down and talked so I don’t want to give you a yes or a no.”

Bright minds with strong voices will make their cases in Ferris State University’s Starr Building on Saturday, Dec. 7 when the Ferris State Speech and Debate program will collaborate with the Michigan Intercollegiate Speech League to host a tournament. 

Speech and Debate coach Aimee Miller said participants will compete in a variety of categories. 

“There will be a ton of events, from impromptu speaking to more theatrical presentations, like prose and poetry,” Miller said. “We will also have unique categories, like impromptu sales speaking and interview sessions. In the latter, judges will ask the questions, just as an employer would when meeting with a job candidate and student participants will be scored based on their responses.” 

Miller seeks Ferris State faculty, staff and other qualified community members to help judge the tournament. 

“Anyone with a bachelor’s degree can help with judging,” Miller said. “A ‘new judge’ would not be placed in a demanding category, but someone with a business background would rely on their experience to oversee impromptu sales presentations or our interview sessions. We are happy to offer training and consult any judging volunteers at their convenience before the event.” 

Participating in collegiate speech and debate provides a range of benefits including enhanced critical thinking skills, improved public speaking abilities, strong research and analytical capabilities, increased confidence, the ability to construct persuasive arguments, effective communication skills, and exposure to diverse perspectives, all of which are highly valuable in both academic and professional settings. 

Miller joined Ferris State’s Communication faculty with a mandate to bolster the Speech and Debate program, and the students earned a third-place finish in the tournament’s Team Sweepstakes in 2023. 

“It was a very good event for the league and our students,” Miller said. “They asked to join us again, and we look forward to this experience and opportunity.” 

Miller welcomes any questions regarding Ferris’ Speech and Debate team, a registered student organization known as Pi Kappa Delta or volunteering as a tournament judge at (231) 591-2745. 

_{Photo and release courtesy of Ferris State University.}

Thanksgiving weekend may see some snow this year, as weather forecasts are calling for lake-effect showers over the next seven days.

Snowfall is expected begin Friday morning, with chances of accumulation continuing through Tuesday. A pattern of colder than normal temperatures, as low as 17 degrees early next week, is also expected in Mecosta, Osceola, and surrounding counties. 

Exact amount of precipitation and timing of snowfall is unknown. Some models are projecting a total of five inches of accumulation by next Tuesday near Big Rapids. Please be aware of changing weather conditions regarding holiday travel, as projected snowfall may fall during heavy traffic times.

For hourly Weather Eye forecasts, tune in to NewsRadio WBRN on 1460 AM, 107.7 ad 96.5 FM, as well as WBRN.com and the WBRN mobile app.

Big Rapids Cardinal Basketball triumphed to an opening season win over the Shepherd Blue Jays Tuesday night by a final score of 48-34. The Cardinals' victory was powered by a stellar performance from senior Gabe Njenga, who led all scorers with an estimated 20 points and pulled down nearly 10 rebounds. Njenga's performance was pivotal, especially on the defensive side with multiple steals and approximately five blocked shots.

The Cardinals' defense was equally as impressive, highlighted by Ty Gielczyk's defensive play inside the paint. Gielczyk not only added seven points to the scoreboard but also grabbed nine rebounds and had three steals. Cole Haist also hit two of three shots from downtown, finishing with eight points and four rebounds. 

Free-throw shooting was not at its best for Big Rapids, as they managed only nine out of 17 conversions from the line. To counter, their overall defensive strategy and rebounding kept them in control throughout the game. Big Rapids’ changing defense scheme significantly disrupted the Blue Jays' offensive rhythm, turning them over nearly 20 times in the game.

Shepherd was led by Mason Eisenberger, who managed about seven points. TJ Powell, a key player for the Blue Jays offense, struggled on two of 13 shooting and a total of seven points. 

This win for Big Rapids showcases their readiness for the season, as the Cardinals avenge a 64-56 loss to Blue Jays to open last year’s season. They will await Tuesday, Dec. 3 to return to the floor, as they will host West Michigan Aviation Academy in Big Rapids. Tip-off is slated for 7:00 P.M. with pre-game on NewsRadio WBRN beginning around 6:30 P.M.

*ALL STATS ARE ESTIMATED AT THE TIME OF THE ARTICLE’S POSTING. OFFICIAL STATS WILL BE UPDATED ONCE THEY ARE FINALIZED.

• An officer was dispatched to assist with a civil custody matter. No issues.

Tuesday, Nov. 12

• An officer received a call of possible drug use in a parking lot. The matter was unfounded.

• Officers were requested to assist the Osceola County Sheriff Department in attempting to locate a walk away juvenile from Eagle Village. While looking, the juvenile returned on their own.

Wednesday, Nov. 13

• An officer responded to a welfare check on a woman that resulted on her transport to the hospital for an evaluation.
• An officer conducted a traffic stop that resulted on the arrest of a 31-year-old male on an outstanding warrant. No issues.
• An officer responded to a complaint of a suspicious noise. It was determined to likely be the electric meter. The caller was advised to contact the electric company.
• An officer was dispatched to a store regarding fraud using the Venmo app. The matter is under investigation.
• An officer was requested to assist the hospital in monitoring two uncooperative mental health patients. Security was occupied with a fire alarm.

Thursday, Nov. 14

• An officer took a complaint of threats between two teens. After investigating the matter has been referred to the offending teens probation officer for action.

• An officer responded to a call about a 16-year-old girl who ran away. The girl returned home with no issues.

Friday, Nov. 15

• An officer arrested a 42-year-old man on two outstanding contempt of court warrants. He was transported from the Kent County Jail to the Osceola County Jail and lodged.

• An officer transported an elderly male after making a welfare check and determined that he needed an evaluation at the hospital. No issues.

Saturday, Nov. 16

• No issues.

Sunday, Nov. 17

• An officer was dispatched, just after midnight, to a man lying in the road after a county corrections officer had located him. Upon review of nearby camera footage, and previous history, it appears the man was likely highly intoxicated and passed out. He suffered significant injury from striking his head when he lost consciousness. He was transported by EMS for treatment.

• An officer responded to a call about a missing 16-year-old female. Before the officer could start looking for her, she returned home, unharmed and well.

Monday, Nov. 18

• Officers received a criminal sexual conduct complaint. The matter is under investigation.
• An officer was dispatched to a threats complaint. The caller stated and individual walking down the street arguing with an unseen person threatened them bodily harm. The matter is under investigation.
• An officer took in a necklace that was found in a parking lot by a City Hall employee. The necklace is being kept until the owner comes forward.
• An officer investigated a possible counterfeit check.

Tuesday, Nov. 19

• An officer, while patrolling, found the front door of a local business open. The building was inspected and secured.

• An officer was dispatched to an intoxicated individual who was denied the purchase of alcohol who then went to another store. The individual and vehicle were located. The investigation resulted in the arrest of a 61-year-old man for Operating while Impaired Alcohol.

• An officer was called to a residence for a possible domestic assault. It was determined to be a verbal argument.

• An officer was dispatched to a call regarding harassment. Both sides agreed to have no more contact with each other.

Wednesday, Nov. 20

• An officer was dispatched to check on an individual who was walking down the street talking to themself and yelling. The individual was warned to quiet down to avoid a citation.

Thursday, Nov. 21

• Officers responded to a two-car accident. Minor damage found with no injuries.

• An officer responded to a call from the Hospital about a 32-year-old male patient that left the hospital against medical advice. The officer was able to local the male and took him back to the hospital for an evaluation.

• An officer searched for a teen that left home while wearing a tether. The boy was located and returned home. The teen later punched a family member and destroyed their cell phone before leaving again. Upon request of his probation officer, he was transported to a youth detention facility.

• An officer was called out to an apartment complex for noise disturbances involving females screaming. The officer had been called to the same location multiple times before. After talking to everyone involved, a citation was issued for a court appearance.

• An officer, while responding to a public peace violation, allegations of a CSC first came to light. The case was determined to be unfounded due to a lack of cooperation from the victim.

Friday, Nov. 22

• An officer took a report of harassment and possible attempted assault. The matter is under investigation.

• An officer took a report regarding a dog bite. While investigating the matter, the officer was bitten by the same dog. Both the caller and the officer only had minor injuries.

• An officer was dispatched to a runaway teen. The teen was later located and questioned as to their whereabouts. The teen admitted to marijuana use and unlawful entry in an unoccupied house. The matter is still under investigation and will be submitted to the prosecutor upon completion.

Saturday, Nov. 23

• An officer was dispatched to a juvenile that had hopped out of his mother’s car and run off. The officer located the juvenile and was able to get him to agree to come with the officer for help with his mental health problems. The juvenile was placed in the care of medical staff.

• An officer was dispatched to a domestic assault involving a juvenile. The matter has been forwarded to the prosecutor.

Sunday, Nov. 24

• No issues.

Many local teams and athletes finished the cross country season in various postseason races earlier this month, where Tri County's boys team and Chippewa Hills' girls team earned the conference crown for the CSAA-Red.

Awards have been handed out for this year's All-CSAA teams. Here are the honorees listed by name, school, and grade in alphabetical order for both the girls and boys teams.

Boys 1st Team All-Conference

• David Castrejon, Newaygo, sophomore
• Allex Culver, Tri-County, junior
• Kyan Deam, Big Rapids, senior
• Hayden Gould, Big Rapids, senior
• Henry Kauffman, Tri-County, junior
• Jaxon Lumbert, Tri-County, senior
• Kelan Monreal, Tri-County, freshman
• August Rohde, Reed City, senior
• Paul Saladin, Reed City, junior
• Jacob Simon, Chippewa Hills, senior
• Rocket Wilson, Tri-County, junior

Boys Honorable Mention All-Conference

• Aaron Allen, Reed City, junior
• Austin Dalman, Big Rapids, senior
• Abraham Kiaunis, Reed City, freshman
• Caleb Kohl, Tri-Countym, sophomore
• Tyler Schuster, Tri-County, sophomore
• Brayden VanOs, Big Rapids, junior

Girls 1st Team All-Conference

• Summer Adams, Big Rapids, senior
• Laura Castrejon, Newaygo, sophomore
• Ellason Foster, Newaygo, freshman
• Quinn Hatfield, Chippewa Hills, junior
• Peyton Nellis, Chippewa Hills, freshman
• Elizabeth Ontis, Chippewa Hills, junior
• Anna Pake, Tri-County, junior
• Dory Simon, Chippewa Hills, freshman
• Clara Smoes, Reed City, senior
• Marlowe Walcott, Reed City, sophomore
• Raquel Welch, Big Rapids, freshman

Girls Honorable Mention All-Conference

• Augusta Bowman, Chippewa Hills, senior
• Sahara Davis, Reed City, junior
• Hailee Hervey, Reed City, sophomore
• Nora Kauffman, Tri-County, freshman
• Jocelynn Olds, Tri-County, junior
• Leah Storey, Chippewa Hills, junior

Just a few weeks ago, many local teams and athletes finished the cross country season in various postseason races. This year, the Hornets of Central Montcalm earned the White Division team championship for the CSAA-White on the boys and girls side.

Awards have been handed out for this year's All-CSAA teams. Here are the honorees listed by name, school, and grade in alphabetical order for both the girls and boys teams.

Boys 1st Team All-Conference

• Kaleb Canning, White Cloud, senior
• Johnny Coston, Central Montcalm, freshman
• Coleson Cruzan, White Cloud, senior
• Kyler Fertig, Central Montcalm, junior
• Gage Hoffman, Central Montcalm, junior
• Brandon McCullough, Kent City, junior
• Evan Rolston, Central Montcalm, junior
• Cooper Tiffany, Lakeview, sophomore
• Sylus Wilson, Central Montcalm, junior

Boys Honorable Mention All-Conference

• Joseph Coon, White Cloud, freshman
• Fernando Diaz-Guzman, Kent City, senior
• Wyatt Karnes, White Cloud, senior
• Lawton Scarlett, Lakeview, freshman
• Gage Stray, Kent City, sophomore

Girls 1st Team All-Conference

• Braelyn Bunting, Central Montcalm, junior
• Ashley Choponis, Central Montcalm, senior
• Grace Coston, Central Montcalm, junior
• Alisha Esquivel, Kent City, senior
• Kyah Hoffman, Central Montcalm, senior
• Elliana Max, Kent City, freshman
• Andrea Rolston, Central Montcalm, sophomore
• Kamryn Salladay, Lakeview, sophomore
• Logan Trygstad, Central Montcalm, junior
• Lila Volkers, Kent City, senior

Girls Honorable Mention All-Conference

• Alexis Curry, Central Montcalm, senior
• Kaitlyn Hardy, Central Montcalm, senior
• Ruth Jurden, Central Montcalm, senior
• Claira Slezak, Lakeview, freshman

Per a release on their Facebook page, the Mecosta County Sheriff's Office is asking for the public's assistance in identifying a suspect.

The person in the images below was involved in a theft at a business located in Big Rapids Township.

^{Suspect photos courtesy and credited to the Mecosta County Sheriff's Office.}

If anyone recognizes the subject, please reach out to the Sheriff's Office at 231-592-0150 or through the tip email of tips@mecostasheriff.org.

The year has wrapped up on the links for girls golf, as Big Rapids captured another conference championship on the course.

Awards have been handed out for this year's All-CSAA teams, including nine first team selections and nine honorable mentions. Here are the honorees listed by name and their respective school in alphabetical order.

1st Team All-Conference

• Rileigh Abel, Chippewa Hills
• Madison Allen, Chippewa Hills
• Savannah Cunningham, Central Montcalm
• Alexis Curry, Central Montcalm
• Abby Doering, Big Rapids
• Hadley Fox, Big Rapids
• Kate Posey, Big Rapids
• Addisyn Siple, Tri County
• Olivia Trevino, Lakeview

Honorable Mention All-Conference

• Ava Bentley, Big Rapids
• Marissa Carrier, Newaygo
• Harleigh Engelhard, Grant
• Grace Hansen, Lakeview
• Alaina Hanson, Reed City
• Hannah Leyder, Big Rapids
• Erin Riesenberg, Chippewa Hills
• Layla Tucci, Big Rapids
• Tyra Zerlaut, Grant

Monday, Nov. 18

Calls for Service: 13

Traffic Accidents: 2

Tuesday, Nov. 19

Calls for Service: 7

Traffic Accidents: 5

Wednesday, Nov. 20

• At 6:42 A.M., deputies responded to a domestic incident at a residence in Austin Township. A 15-year-old male subject had chased around his stepdad with a knife. The male subject was taken in to custody.  

• At 9:56 A.M., deputies made a warrant arrest in Mecosta Township. A male subject was arrested on a warrant.

• At 4:26 P.M., deputies made a warrant arrest at a residence in Martiny Township. A male subject was arrested on a warrant.

Calls for Service: 21

Traffic Accidents: 2

Thursday, Nov. 21

• At 3:33 P.M., deputies made a warrant arrest at a residence in Wheatland Township. A female subject was arrested on a warrant. She was lodged at the Mecosta County Jail.

• At 4:00 P.M., deputies recovered stolen property from a residence in Sheridan Township. The property was stolen from another residence in Sheridan Township back in Oct. 2024. The stolen property was returned to the owner.

Calls for Service: 22

Traffic Accidents: 3

Friday, Nov. 22

• At 2:02 P.M., deputies made an arrest at a residence in Aetna Township. A male subject was arrested on a probation violation. He was lodged at the Mecosta County Jail.

• At 9:19 P.M., deputies made an arrest at a residence in Austin Township. A male subject was arrested on a probation violation.  He was lodged at the Mecosta County Jail.

Calls for Service: 18

Traffic Accidents: 4

Saturday, Nov. 23

• At 10:41 P.M., deputies investigated a single vehicle crash in Hinton Township. The investigation led to arrest of male driver for OWI. The male subject was lodged at the Mecosta County Jail.

Calls for Service: 14

Traffic Accidents: 1

Sunday, Nov. 24

• At 10:02 P.M., deputies made an arrest at a residence in Big Rapids Township. A female subject was arrested for aggravated assault and malicious destruction of property. She was lodged at the Mecosta County Jail.

Calls for Service: 17

Traffic Accidents: 1

The Lions secured a convincing 24-6 victory over the Indianapolis Colts at Lucas Oil Stadium Sunday, moving to 10-1 on the season with their ninth straight win.

Detroit ran the ball very well in the contest, with running back Jahmyr Gibbs finding the endzone twice on 91 rushing yards and David Montgomery scoring once on 73 total yards. This performance extended Detroit's already league-record 25 consecutive game streak with at least one touchdown run, including the postseason. The Lions outgained Indianapolis 390 to 268 in total yards but used an impressive 9 of 15 conversion rate on third down to extend drives into points.

The defense stood tall once again for Coach Campbell, as they prevented the Colts from scoring a touchdown. Colts quarterback Anthony Richardson struggled to get the offense against Aaron Glenn's defense, as many receiver drops and penalties prevented any momentum. This makes it 10 quarters since the Lions defense has allowed an opposing touchdown.

This win not only highlights the Lions' ability to play both a balanced offense and a staunch defense but also keeps them in a strong position for the playoffs, aiming for the first seed and a postseason bye in the NFC. Concerns do rise for the injuries sustained in the contest, as players like Kalif Raymond, Taylor Decker, Carlton Davis II, and David Montgomery went down during the contest. None are believed to be season-ending.

The Colts drop to 5-7 and now face pressure for a winning push to keep their playoff hopes alive. 

Detroit returns to action on Thursday, Nov. 28 for the Thanksgiving Classic against the Chicago Bears. Catch full game coverage starting at 11:30 A.M. on NewsRadio WBRN via 96.5 FM and 1460 AM. Kickoff is slated for 12:30 P.M.

The Ferris State University volleyball squad captured the Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference Tournament Championship as the nation's top-ranked Bulldogs swept rival Grand Valley State University 3-0 in Sunday's title match before a capacity crowd at Bulldog Arena.

The Bulldogs battled back from an early deficit in the first set to win 25-18 and then closed their third win over the Lakers in as many tries this year by taking sets two and three by scores of 25-17 and 25-11.

With the win, Ferris State is now a nation-best 31-0 overall this year and is expected to host the NCAA Division II Midwest Regional Tournament, which takes place Dec. 5 through 7, as the top regional seed. The official NCAA D2 Selection Show airs on Monday, Nov. 25 starting at 7:30 p.m. at NCAA.com.

The Bulldogs put together another impressive performance in the win over the Lakers, who fell to 27-3 overall this year with all three setbacks coming to Ferris State, which hit .255 for the match, compiling 41 kills and only 16 attack errors on 98 attempts.

The GLIAC's top-seeded Bulldogs took out second-seeded Grand Valley State behind a match-high 14 kills from senior outside hitter Olivia Henneman-Dallape, who earned the GLIAC Tournament Most Valuable Player Award. She was joined on the all-tournament team by fellow seniors Kaylee Maat and Claire Nowicki.

Along with Henneman-Dallape, the Bulldogs got nine kills from Nowicki and eight by freshman hitter Gabby Piazza. Maat notched 31 assists in the win while senior libero Leah Bylut led FSU defensively with 17 digs. Nowicki chipped in 10 digs while both Henneman-Dallape and Maat recorded nine digs apiece.

In the middle, the Bulldogs got five total blocks from senior middle hitter Chelsie Freeman in addition to three from senior middle hitterSyann Fairfield. Henneman-Dallape also added three blocks and Maat had two assisted blocks for the Bulldogs at the net.

Additionally, Emma Bleecher tallied a team-best three service aces for the Bulldogs in the triumph.

Overall, Ferris State finished the three-set match with 49 digs and nine total team blocks along with four aces. FSU held GVSU to a .039 attack showing with the Lakers recording 27 kills and 23 attack errors on 103 attempts. GVSU had 35 digs to go with seven blocks and no aces.

The Lakers were led by Kendall Stover with eight kills. Jordyn Gates chipped in 17 assists and Julia Blaney notched 11 digs.

Ferris State was making its 27th consecutive GLIAC Tournament appearance dating back to 1998 and FSU topped the Lakers in the tournament title match for the third-straight year. The Bulldogs have now claimed the postseason title each season since 2014 with the exception of the 2020 COVID season that was played in the spring of 2021.

As the league tournament champion, the Bulldogs also earned the league's automatic bid into the NCAA Division II Tournament.

_{Photo and release credit to Ferris State Athletics.}

It was an eventful season within the CSAA-Red division, as Reed City, Grant, and Newaygo all finished with a 8-2 conference record.

Awards have been handed out for this year's All-CSAA teams, including 12 first team selections and six honorable mentions. Here are the honorees listed by name, school, jersey number, and grade.

1st Team All-Conference

• Amaya Lathrop, Newaygo (#1), junior
• Jocee Pleune, Grant (#2), senior
• Kija Schultz, Newaygo (#2), senior
• Ruby Hughes, Newaygo (#3), sophomore
• Kate Strasser, Big Rapids (#4), senior
• Emma Johnston, Reed City (#6), junior
• Hannah Abbott, Chippewa Hills (#7), senior
• Danica Gee, Grant (#8), senior
• Miyesha Baumgardner, Reed City (#11), junior
• Austin Dubois, Chippewa Hills (#12), freshman

Honorable Mention All-Conference

• Ella Soules, Newaygo (#5), sophomore
• Sydney DeHart, Tri-County (#6), senior
• Isabelle Dukes, Big Rapids (#8), senior
• Hunter Howard, Chippewa Hills (#8), senior
• Morgan Hammond, Reed City (#9), junior
• Reese Gragg, Grant (#13), senior

Volleyball season is now in the books and there's no doubt this season brought excitement around the league. Morley Stanwood and Kent City both stood atop the White Division with a 7-1 conference mark, each giving each other their only conference loss on the campaign.

Awards have been handed out for this year's All-CSAA teams, including nine first team selections and five honorable mentions. Here are the honorees listed by name, school, jersey number, and grade.

1st Team All-Conference

• Karlie Bacon, Central Montcalm (#1), senior
• Hailee Brown, White Cloud (#3), senior
• Hannah Cruzan, White Cloud (#2), senior
• Cailynn Hartzell, Kent City (#12), senior
• Piper Kozuch, Morley Stanwood (#10), senior
• Alexis Martin, Morley Stanwood (#8), junior
• Brooke Moore, Morley Stanwood (#6), senior
• Kaden Perkins, Kent City (#1), senior
• Kendall Stout, Central Montcalm (#13), senior

Honorable Mention All-Conference

• Brooklyn Foondle, White Cloud (#9), senior
• Becca Hirkaway, Central Montcalm (#5), junior
• Laynee Hoffman, Kent City (#5), junior
• Madeline Kozuch, Morley Stanwood (#5), sophomore
• Abigail Rushmore, Lakeview (#1), senior

Students graduating from Newaygo County high schools or registered homeschool programs will be eligible for scholarships of up to $5,000 a year to attend Ferris State University through the Newaygo County Area Promise Zone, a partnership leaders say will put a life-changing college education within reach for many students.

Ferris State President Bill Pink and Newaygo County Area Promize Zone Chairperson Blake Prewitt signed an agreement on Friday to put the plan into effect immediately, making the Newaygo Promise Scholarship available for students attending Ferris State in fall 2025, seeking either an associate or bachelor’s degrees.

“Communities grow and thrive when residents have access to a quality education,” Ferris State President Bill Pink said. “I am so thrilled to form this partnership with the Newaygo Promise Zone Authority, as it will provide students with even more opportunities and improve access to our transformational programs at Ferris State. This will positively impact students directly, but also families and the greater Newaygo County community.”

The Newaygo County Promise Scholarship will cover a maximum of $5,000 a year for up to four years of attendance. Students will be required to attend Ferris State full time, carrying a class load of least 12 credit hours each semester.

The Newaygo County Area Promise Zone was started in 2016 and was initially available for students to attend Muskegon Community College. The Ferris State agreement is the Promise Zone’s first partnership with a four-year college. It includes students residing in the districts of Big Jackson, Fremont, Grant, Hesperia, Newaygo, and White Cloud.

“We are thrilled to announce the addition of Ferris State University as an eligible college for the Promise Zone Scholarship,” Prewitt said. “Ferris State has been a valued partner to Newaygo County school districts, and we look forward to the incredible opportunities this will create for our students to succeed and thrive."

To be eligible, students will need to have a final cumulative unweighted grade point average of 2.50 upon graduating from a public high school or registered homeschool program from within Newaygo County.

The scholarship awards will be 100 percent funded for all eligible students who have attended a Newaygo County Area school for grades 7-12 and have successfully graduated. Students can receive a prorated amount if they have attended for fewer years.

Students must meet the legal eligibility requirements for federal financial aid and submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid annually.

Ferris State financial aid specialists will work with Promise students to help them apply for Pell Grants and other types of financial aid. 

Jeanine Ward-Roof, Ferris state’s vice president for Student Affairs., said the university is excited to provide students in Newaygo County significant financial support toward a degree.

“Ferris is a place where we know students can achieve their dreams and the resources afforded by the Newaygo County Area Promise will make a degree and a path toward a fulfilling career more accessible,” she said. “Additionally, the Newaygo County Promise Zone scholarship program includes success coaches who will partner with resource areas at Ferris to add an additional layer of support, helping students find success while pursuing their degree!” 

Once at Ferris State, students must maintain a minimum 2.0 GPA, be enrolled on a full-time basis for the completion of at least 24 credit hours each academic year and meet satisfactory academic progress requirements.

Promise Zone authorities are created using private donations to fund scholarships but are able to use locally generated state funds after operating for and awarding scholarships for two years.

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

Football season is nearing a close in Michigan, as awards season is now in full swing. In the CSAA-White, Central Montcalm hoisted the conference crown in their first year under the new division label.

Awards have been handed out for this year's All-CSAA teams, including 26 first team selections and four honorable mentions. Here are the honorees listed by name, school, jersey number, position, and grade.

1st Team All-Conference

• Cameron Bracey, Central Montcalm (#4), WR/DB, senior
• Zayne Cooper, Central Montcalm (#7), WR/DB, junior
• Tristian DeVries, Morley Stanwood (#67), OL/DL, junior
• Kale Freeland, Kent City (#22), TE/DB, junior
• Jayden Graves, White Cloud (#4), WR/DB, senior
• Cooper Houtman, Kent City (#47), HB/MLB, senior
• Jamison Johns, Central Montcalm (#6), WR/DB, junior
• Asher Johnson, Central Montcalm (#56), DL, senior
• Landen Johnson, Lakeview (#50), OL/LB, senior
• Reece Johnson, White Cloud (#20), RB/LB, senior
• Andrew Klotz, Kent City (#52), OL/DL, senior
• Isaiah Kukla, Morley Stanwood (#5), RB/LB, senior
• Emmett Lingeman, Central Montcalm (#12), QB/DE, junior
• Waylon Lingeman, Central Montcalm (#77), OL/DL, senior
• Andre Meade, Kent City (#2), QB/OLB, junior
• Wyatt Orr, Lakeview (#51), OL/DL, junior
• Brayden Peak, Central Montcalm (#10), WR/DB, junior
• Cameron Perez, Lakeview (#8), QB/DB, senior
• Grayson Preston,  Kent City (#6), TE/DB, senior
• Trevor Rawson, Kent City (#55), OL/DL, junior
• Jayden Robinson, White Cloud (#5), QB, senior
• Braden Salladay, Lakeview (#9), RB/LB, senior
• Anthony Schultz, Central Montcalm (#1), RB/DE, senior
• Bo Slavens, Morley Stanwood (#24), RB/LB, junior
• Cooper Stinson, Kent City (#8), RB/MLB, junior
• McCoy Wernholm, Central Montcalm (#21), RB/LB, junior

Honorable Mention All-Conference

• Sammy Anderson, Kent City (#7), RB/DB, junior
• Gage Freiberg, Morley Stanwood (#21), OL/DL, senior
• Braxton Hill, Lakeview (#20), RB/DL, senior
• Ben Yaw, Central Montcalm (#54), OL/DE, senior

As the 2024 football season nears its end across the state, it was a memorable one for teams in the CSAA. Big Rapids defended their conference crown, finishing with a undefeated CSAA-Red season for their second outright championship campaign.

Awards have been handed out for this year's All-CSAA teams, including 29 first team selections and six honorable mentions. Here are the honorees listed by name, school, jersey number, position, and grade.

1st Team All-Conference

• Aavin Addis, Big Rapids (#56), OL/DL, senior
• Jack Bollman, Big Rapids (#7), RB/LB, junior
• Max Bollman, Big Rapids (#10), TE/DE, sophomore
• Aiden Booth, Grant (#5), RB/LB, senior
• Kason Coppick, Reed City (#24), RB/DB, freshman
• Braylon Councilor, Big Rapids (#53), OL/DL, junior
• Owen Craven, Big Rapids (#5), DB, junior
• Garret Foster, Big Rapids (#2), RB/DB, senior
• Payton Gogolowski, Reed City (#9), TE/OLB, junior
• Cole Haist, Big Rapids (#3), QB, junior
• Landen Jackson, Reed City (#1), QB, senior
• Blake Kerr, Newaygo (#5), QB/OLB/K/P, senior
• Andrew Kiaunis, Reed City (#22), RB/DB, junior
• Gavin Kiliszewski, Grant (#51), OL/LB, junior
• Hunter McGuire, Chippewa Hills (#1), QB, junior
• Gage Perkins, Chippewa Hills (#3), WR/DB, senior
• Preston Piefer, Tri County, (#14), DE, senior
• Bryce Reed, Tri County (#20), RB/DB, senior
• Ethan Reyburn, Newaygo (#22), RB/DB, senior
• Caiden Schuberg, Big Rapids (#65), OL/DL, senior
• Wyatt Skiera, Big Rapids (#6), DB/SL, junior
• Porter Slominski, Newaygo (#8), RB/ILB, junior
• Wyatt Spalo, Reed City (#72), T/DT, senior
• Easton Swanson, Grant (#71), OL/DL, sophomore
• Ethan Thompson, Reed City (#77), T/DT, senior
• Vaughn Veltman, Tri County (#4), QB/LB, junior
• Tyler Woodside, Reed City (#54), G/OLB, junior
• Hunter Yearsovich, Newaygo (#22), WR/DB, senior
• Henry Wood, Newaygo (#84), TE/OLB, senior

Honorable Mention All-Conference

• Eddie Beight, Grant (#9), RB/LB, junior
• Jon Koepf, Chippewa Hills (#54), OL/DL, senior
• Miguel Ortiz, Big Rapids (#9), LB, junior
• Zach Rogowski, Reed City (#4), LB, senior
• Wilson Sixbury, Tri-County (#12), RB/DB, sophomore
• Xavier Stroud, Newaygo (#55), OL/LB, senior

The 2024 boys' soccer season is officially complete. In the CSAA, the Kent City Eagles went unbeaten in the CSAA regular season, at 5-0-1, to earn the regular season title. In the conference postseason, Big Rapids took down the Eagles 2-1 to win the tournament title.

Awards have been handed out for this year's All-CSAA teams, including 22 first team selections and seven honorable mentions. Here are the honorees listed by name, school, jersey number, and grade.

1st Team All-Conference

• Marcus Arechiga, Kent City (#10), sophomore
• Jonathan Bischoff, Newaygo (#12), junior
• David Copado-Perez, Kent City (#7), sophomore
• Yonatan Duran, Kent City (#6), junior
• Keaton Edwards, Big Rapids (#14), senior
• Diego Felix, Grant (#15), senior
• Collin Geroux, Newaygo (#11), junior
• Ayden Gonzalez, Tri-County (#12), senior
• Wesley Heydens, Big Rapids (#11), freshman
• William Heydens, Big Rapids (#6), junior
• Anthony Jones, Tri-County (#5), senior
• Rhys Kilpatrick, Big Rapids (#2), sophomore
• Ixandel Lara, Grant (#14), sophomore
• Aiden Mansfield, Grant (#7), freshman
• Jose Martel-Rios, Lakeview (#8), junior
• Zé Olivia, Tri-County (#10), senior
• Adrian Pell, Tri-County (#3), junior
• Nick Pischel, Big Rapids (GK), senior
• Jesus Pozas-Servin, Kent City (GK), junior
• Arturo Rivera, Newaygo (#14), junior
• Aaron Vanderwest, Kent City (#19), junior
• Zuriel Vega, Kent City (#23), senior

Honorable Mention All-Conference

• Marcos Rosales, Grant (#5), junior
• Isaiah Sostenes, Newaygo (#10), senior
• Kaden Beam, Reed City (#12), junior
• Brandon Garcia, Tri-County (#13), junior
• Jose Pozas-Servin, Kent City (#17), junior
• Gabe Tisdel, Lakeview (#20), senior
• Owen Buist, Big Rapids (#22), senior

Humble, hard-working Olivia Henneman-Dallape is excelling on the court for the nationally top-ranked Ferris State University volleyball team, and through the rigor of the College of Health Professions' Nursing program, among the most challenging majors a student-athlete can pursue.

“Being in Nursing, as a student-athlete, is definitely challenging,” said the 6-foot-2 Henneman-Dallape. The Oregon, Ohio native is among the leaders of a Bulldog volleyball team that completed its 2024 regular season with a 28-0 record and as the champions of the Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference.

Henneman-Dallape credits the Ferris State staff led by head coach Tia Brandel-Wilhelm with helping her embody the spirit of the student-athlete.

“Tia does a great job of making sure school comes first and helping me work around that so I can be successful as a student and as an athlete,” said Henneman-Dallape, a GLIAC All-Academic selection as a junior for the Bulldogs. “Tia puts in a lot of time outside the gym with me so I can work on what I've had to miss at practices. Being in our nursing program while being an athlete takes a lot of time management.”

That time management includes budgeting for 140 nursing clinical hours this semester toward completing her program.

Henneman-Dallape is confident the work will pay off.

“I know it's going to be worth it to have team success on the court and to graduate from Ferris State prepared for my professional career,” she said.

On the court, Henneman-Dallape and her teammates are having great team success on the eve of the GLIAC Tournament. Their focus in the post-season will not deviate from the norm – taking it one match at a time.

Ferris State did not start its 2024 season seeking anything other than steady improvement with every weight room workout, film study session, practice and match.

“I don't think we had a specific expectation,” Henneman-Dallape said. “During the summer, we focused on putting in the work we needed to help us get better and to be ready for the start of the season. We wanted to build on what we did during spring and what we experienced on our team's trip to Spain. That international trip gave us more time to come together as teammates and work together even better.”

In May, Henneman-Dallape and her teammates enjoyed a 10-day trip to compete in volleyball in Spain and Portugal, testing themselves against foreign competition, learning more about each other and experiencing a unique cultural enrichment opportunity in Europe.

“Spain was a great bonding experience for us,” she said. “We had the time and allowed ourselves to get to know each other better, helping us make a greater connection as teammates. It's hard to explain. Sometimes, I get goosebumps thinking and talking about how great an experience it was for us.”

The start of the 2024 season has been a great experience. A highlight came in the team's season-opening win, a five-set road victory over then nationally third-ranked West Texas A&M – currently No. 6 – where Henneman-Dallape recorded a season-high 23 kills. 

The performance builds off great sophomore and junior campaigns, where Henneman-Dallape had 417 and a career-best 486 kills.

Henneman-Dallape has thrived this season with a team-best 391 kills, starting all 28 matches, on a .343 attack percentage for the senior-rich Bulldogs. Her fellow seniors include libero Leah Bylut, setter Kaylee Maat, outside hitter Claire Nowicki, middle hitter Syann Fairfield, outside hitter Hannah Tecumseh, middle hitter Chelsie Freeman and outside hitter Tatum Outlaw.

The outside hitter earned GLIAC Offensive Player of the Week honors six times in 10 weeks – including the first five weeks. But Henneman-Dallape doesn’t take credit for the accolades.

“Our focus is team success,” she said. “I know that if I'm getting a lot of kills, it's because Kaylee's working hard to get me a good ball or Leah is passing the ball well to get it to Kaylee. We're working hard and we're working together as a team. That's what it takes to be successful.”

Maat has been named GLIAC Setter of the Week five times in 2024.

Success is often measured by wins and losses, but Henneman-Dallape savors her whole student-athlete experience and is happy to share it with a group of great friends.

“I would say our chemistry and friendships are what I love most about being on this team,” she said. “I have a friendship with each person on our team. While we have different ways of connecting, we're here to work together to be the best we can be as a team.”

The Bulldogs, the top seed in the upcoming GLIAC Tournament, will host Purdue Northwest in Bulldog Arena in a quarterfinal match at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 20. The Bulldogs will host the semifinals on Nov. 23 and championship match on Nov. 24 with a quarterfinal win over the Pride.

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

On Wednesday, Nov. 13 at approximately 4:43 P.M., Meceola Central Dispatch received a 9-1-1 call for a personal injury accident on M-115 near the intersection of M-61.

The investigation revealed a black pick-up truck, carrying an attached trailer, rear ended a silver SUV. The silver SUV, occupied by two subjects, rolled several times and came to a rest on its top while the pick-up truck fled the scene continuing east towards Clare County.

The Osceola County Sheriff's Office is looking for information on the vehicle that fled the scene. If you or someone you know has information on this incident, please contact Deputy Dougherty at 231-832-2288 or cdougherty@osceola-county.org. You can also contact Cadillac Area Silent Observer at 1-800-528-8234.

The Osceola County Sherriff's Office would like to thank Meceola Central Dispatch, as well as, the Marion Fire Department and Osceola County EMS for assistance on this incident.

On Thursday, a deputy responded to a one-vehicle rollover on Jefferson Rd. near 200th Ave. near Morley.

The juvenile female driver was transported to Corewell Health hospital in Big Rapids for minor injuries. The female passenger was cited for not wearing a seatbelt at the time of the accident.

The Mecosta County Sheriff’s Department was assisted by Meceola 911, Mecosta County EMS, Morley Township Rescue and Frontline Towing. 

LIONS HEAD COACH DAN CAMPBELL QUOTE SHEET

November 20, 2024

Opening Statement: “Colts, good team, very much in the mix. We talked about playoffs and that division. This team plays hard, they’ve got talent. I think (Colts Head Coach) Shane (Steichen)’s done a heck of a job over there. We had a lot of crossover tape over two years, I think they do a real good job, and then what they’ve done with (Colts QB Anthony) Richardson now that he’s come back, especially last week against the Jets, they’ve really opened up Richardson, so he’s got the ability to throw it downfield, he’s strong, he’s big, he can run, and these receivers are dangerous and, obviously, the back. Obviously, the back, I think it all starts with him. And then (Colts Defensive Coordinator) Gus (Bradley), got a lot of respect for Gus Bradley, he’s done it for a long time, every time you play his defenses, they’re disciplined, they play hard, they’re smart and they create takeaways, and that’s what they’re doing this year. So, it really starts with that D-line, particularly (Colts DT Grover) Stewart and (Colts DT) DeForest (Buckner) up front, (Colts LB Zaire Franklin) 44’s an issue, run-and-hit, smart, aggressive, and (Colts CB) Kenny Moore (II), among others. Special teams, they’ve got a couple of playmakers over there too, (Colts WR Ashton Dulin) 16, (Colts LB Grant Stuard) 41, so we’ve got our work cut out for us. We’re looking forward to this challenge and on to the next one.”

On what he gets out of his relationship with his dogs and how they have contributed to Detroit’s performance thus far: “Yeah, I would rather not answer that. I was not expecting that one. Yeah, look I like my dogs, alright? That’s probably the best way to say it, I like my dogs. We’ve had some good ones, these are a couple of characters, and they’re totally different. They go with me on coffee runs, that’s probably the best way to say it.”

On if his dogs have helped calm him and regulate his stress: “Well, I think it’s like kids, right? When you’ve got little kids, they don’t care, they don’t care what’s going on. I remember my son and my daughter, both of them, when they were young and you come home from a loss, they don’t know any different, they’re just happy to see you and they don’t know the outside world, they don’t know the stress, the pressure, and you appreciate that, and dogs are the same way, right? I mean, they just love you, they love you for what you are, and they don’t have bad days, so it’s pretty cool.”

On holding walkthrough practices on Wednesdays in recent weeks and the importance of load management: “Yeah, I think it’s been good for us, and we’ve – every year has been different for us, and you’ve got to go with what you feel like is best for your team in that moment, in that year, and so every year it’s kind of evolved. I mean, last year we were still going, we were still practicing pretty good Wednesdays, Thursdays, but we also had a different schedule, we were a little bit younger. Our core of this team is older now, more mature, we’re not old but we’ve played a lot of football together and so they kind of know what to expect, played with each other long enough, the staff’s been together, myself, the whole thing, so I feel like it was something we can handle, and if you can handle it, it does help. I feel like it helps you bounce back just a little bit quicker for these games, it gives you just a little more juice, and it doesn’t mean that it’s going to make the difference in the game. What you realize is, it doesn’t matter. We could pad up for three days in a row and still go win a game, if you believe you’re going to win it, you do things right, but this is the right thing to do, and it’s been good for us. So, if you can take a little bit off, it’s good, and really the flip side of that is, ‘OK, but tomorrow when we come in, we’re smoking.’ Just like we did last week, that practice should look like game time. We were flying and we were competing, and it will.”

On what he learned about having a great running back duo from his time with former Saints RB Mark Ingram II and Saints RB Alvin Kamara: “I just – number one, they were both great teammates and AK was the young guy that came in, he had the electric juice, man, he was – is the player he is now, he was just young, he was raw, and Mark was – he wasn’t old, but he was a savvy veteran in his prime, was more of our hammer, but could do everything. I mean, he could run choice routes out of the backfield, he could run inside zone, wide zone, you could toss it to him, he had enough breakaway speed to finish down the field, in the end zone on runs. So, he had this all-encompassing – protections, the whole thing, and so AK was able to learn kind of around him, under him, watch him, and develop his game a little bit, gravitated more towards Mark, but yet he had what he’s got. He’s got the other things that Mark never had, and so, I just think it makes you well-rounded and they kind of – you begin to mesh, you begin to take each other’s abilities and try to use them as your own a little bit and it just elevates each one of them. And they’re also competing, they’re friends, and I think that’s what we’ve got here. I think (Lions RB) David (Montgomery) and (Lions RB Jahmyr) Gibbs are like brothers, I really do, and I think David’s big brother and he’s not going to let anybody mess with him, that’s his guy. Now, he’ll mess with him, and if he does something wrong he’s going to let him know, but that’s his, he takes him under his wing and I think they’ve elevated each other and he’s made Gibbs better and I think has helped him too, and when you have that and you have that competition, you have that love for one another, just the whole thing – to me, they’re the perfect combination. It doesn’t come any better, in my opinion. You’ve got everything you need out of those two players, run or pass game.”

On if he felt that Lions RB David Montgomery had a big brother mentality when he was acquired: “Well, I think that’s hard to say because he’s coming in as a free agent and I think he wants to make his own mark first. That’s important like, ‘Hey man, these guys are taking a chance on me.’ Free agency, he wants to prove his own worth and let us know, ‘Hey, what you signed on is – you’re about to see and then some.’ And so, I think so much of it started there, but man, once we acquired (Lions RB Jahmyr) Gibbs it didn’t take long, and that’s just how David is, even if he wanted to hide that, he can’t hide it. He wants to help and he’s all about – he really is a team first guy, he really is. I mean, he’d lay it on the line for those guys, and if it meant he didn’t get the touch, but it meant somebody else is getting that for us to win the game, he’s all for it, and that’s not an easy thing to do, put your ego aside. So, I’ll tell you what, he’s been an unbelievable addition for us, though. I mean, he fits us perfect. I am – I’m so thankful we got him here, that worked out great.”

On if he is optimistic that Lions TE Sam LaPorta will play this week and how he felt the tight end room stepped up against Jacksonville: “Yeah, so, there again, walkthrough today, but I feel – I think it’s trending. It’s questionable to above for LaPorta, I think it’s trending the right way. And yeah, those guys didn’t miss a beat, we got (Lions TE) James Mitchell up off of the practice squad, he showed up, played for us, I thought he played a solid game, certainly wasn’t too big for him, he’s played for us before, that was good. I thought (Lions TE) Brock (Wright) carried the load for us, man, played a lot of reps, lot of snaps, and he really had to do a lot of different jobs. We all know he does the dirty work, the run game, the protection, which, he was outstanding in protection, but then the number of routes he had to run that you don’t even notice, and they’re clear-outs, and then he’s blocking downfield, so he really bailed us out and helped us out a ton there. And then (Lions TE Shane) Zylstra, too, Zylstra’s been kind of a staple for us going on four weeks or whatever that is and just quietly goes about his business and does the job. So, it’s been a good group and (Lions Tight Ends Coach) Steve (Heiden)’s doing a good job with them.”

On what Lions LB David Long Jr. could offer the team: “Well, he’s played football, he’s played the linebacker position, he’s banked a lot of reps and played really good football. He’s really one of those guys, got a knack for finding the ball, he’s an aggressive player, run-and-hit, and so, it gave us a chance to have somebody that, if we need it, and he can acclimate to what we do, how we do things here, get on top of the playbook, then if we can use him, we’ll use him. And, in the meantime, it’s special teams and it’s insurance, is really the role right now. But it was – we’re excited to have him here and just see what he can do, let him compete like everybody else.”

On Colts QB Anthony Richardson’s performance last week and what makes his style of football unique: “Well, I think what you saw was, last week, really, at his best. I’m not even sure you can go back to earlier in the year because I feel like they’ve taken the handcuffs off of him and allowed him to just go, and I think it’s, there’s a lot of things to where, you’ve got to be careful, that’s your guy. You run him too much, he gets hit, he gets injured, he gets – and I think now, all bets are off and we’ve got to get first downs, we’ve got to score touchdowns, and you’ve got to lead us to it. And so, when you run him the way you run him and with the different schemes that they’re doing it with, I mean, they’ve got quarterback power, they’ve got the RPO, they’ve got the read run, they’ve got the play-action off of that, and then he can scramble, and then, if he is in the pocket and you’ve got your arms around him, trying to bring him to the ground, he’ll just stiff arm you off of him, he’ll just press you off, and then throw it down the field. And it’s rare, his strength, his ability to run, and he really does have a nice deep ball, he’s an accurate passer down the field, and I mean deep. So, that’s what makes him dangerous, it’s all-encompassing is what it is, and when you accompany that by getting this halfback going, you get (Colts RB Jonathan) Taylor going and all of a sudden, this becomes a very dangerous offense. So, it’s really no different than anything else, we cannot allow them to get this run game going, because if they do it’s going to be tough.”

On how important the role Lions LB Malcolm Rodriguez plays will be in the absence of Lions LB Alex Anzalone: “Yeah, it’s very important. I mean, he really does become somewhat the next man up. I mean, he and (Lions LB) Jack (Campbell) are going to take on the – Jack’s been playing with Alex in a heavy load, but it’s really Jack and Malcolm. I mean, those are the two that are – they’re going to take on the heaviest load of that whole room. And so, yeah, he knows that, but he’s ready for it. I mean, Malcolm’s a football player, man, and he embraces this, and some of this stuff – this week is right in his wheelhouse, this fits him perfect, and Jack too, for that matter. So, he’ll be big for us and he’s going to be big the rest of the season, it doesn’t matter who we get back, we’re going to use him. He helps us there on defense and he helps us on special teams.”

On whom Lions RB David Montgomery reminds him of with his running style: “Man, to me, he’s a throwback. There are throwback principles about him, and I mean that with all due respect. His running style is – it’s rare. Look, we were watching clips this morning, I think (Texans RB Joe) Mixon at Houston runs really hard in today’s football too. He’s an aggressive style, but I think David is just different and he’s downhill, doesn’t give up, first guy, he’s not going to let him tackle him, continues to churn his legs, and just violent, violent, never give up, never going down. When I watch him, it just reminds me of some of the great ones, man, back in the heyday. I mean, they just – they don’t go down. So, freaking (former Hall of Fame RB) Earl Campbell, man, Earl Campbell ran like crazy, (former Hall of Fame RB) Walter Payton ran like crazy and would not go down. So, anyway, I think he’s rare, I think we’re fortunate to have him, and I can tell you this, the O-line loves blocking for that guy and anybody that plays with him, I mean, you want to talk about inspiring? That inspires you to want to block.”

The City of Big Rapids and Big Rapids Charter Township have signed a one-year mutual aid agreement for fire services, strengthening their collaborative efforts to provide efficient and effective emergency response to both communities.

Under this agreement, Big Rapids Charter Township will provide the Big Rapids Fire Department with the use of all its fire and rescue equipment and buildings. In return, the City will extend fire and rescue services to the township under the same terms as those provided within the City for the year.

Throughout this period, data regarding funding and overall operations will be collected and reviewed by officials from both the city and township to determine if the contract terms remain relevant or if adjustments are necessary.

“This one-year agreement is an important step in our commitment to collaboration and community safety,” said Fred Guenther, Mayor of the City of Big Rapids. “By working together, we are ensuring that both the City and Township have the resources needed to handle emergencies of any scale.”

“This partnership demonstrates how local governments can work together to achieve shared goals,” added Bruce Borkovich, Supervisor of Big Rapids Charter Township. “It’s a testament to the commitment both the City and Township have to protecting and serving our communities. The objective of the emergency services agreement was predicated upon determining the best possible emergency services provided to the residents of Big Rapids Charter Township. Currently, residents are charged 1.5 mills for the emergency services and the job of the board is to determine the best method to ensure emergency response in the future.”

Following the effective date of this agreement, current Big Rapids Charter Township Fire Department personnel will be encouraged to apply during the City’s open hiring process for part-paid firefighters through the City’s standard hiring process. This process will include an interview, background check, and physical. All hiring decisions shall be within the sole discretion of the City.

To view the agreement, please visit the City of Big Rapids Fire Department page at: https://www.bigrapidsfire.org

_{Release courtesy of The City of Big Rapids Communications.}

Following the closure of the Big Lots Home store, a new suitor has emerged to take over the space at 750 Perry Ave. in Big Rapids.

Signage on the building alludes to Ollie's Bargain Outlet being the next business to set up shop. As alluded to in their "good stuff cheap" tagline, Ollie's is one of the largest closeout retailers of merchandise and excess inventory franchises in the United States. 

According to their website, Ollie's has over 550 stores nationwide. There are 25 Michigan locations, including nearby stores in Alma, Alpena, Bay City, Muskegon, Saginaw, and Wyoming. There newest Michigan location will be opening in Walker on Thursday, Nov. 20. 

Departments that can be found at Ollie's include but aren't limited to health and beauty, kitchenware, electronics, hardware, clothing and accessories, sporting goods, automotive, toys and games, food and candy, seasonal decor, and cleaning supplies. Items within these categories can often be found at very high discount prices, some as high as 70 percent, as many come from overstock, closeout, and refurbished items from liquidated companies. 

Time and date of the store's opening are unknown at this time. 

• Fail to Pay – Officers were dispatched for a fail to pay. The subject was contacted and they returned to pay for their fuel.

Tuesday, November 12

• Property Damage Accident – Officers were dispatched for a two-car accident. There were no juries and both vehicles were drivable.

Wednesday, November 13

• Nothing reported.

Thursday, November 14

• Nothing reported.

Friday, November 15

• Domestic – Officers were dispatched for a domestic assault. After the investigation was completed, it was determined no assault had occurred.

Saturday, November 16

• Nothing reported.

Sunday, November 17

• Warrant Attempt – Officers conducted a warrant check. The subject was located and arrested on four outstanding warrants.
• Warrant Attempt – Officers conducted a warrant check. The subject was located and lodged.

Ferris State University hockey head coach Bob Daniels earned his 500th career victory Saturday with a 3-2 win over Lake Superior State in the first-ever college hockey game at Centre Ice Arena in Traverse City.

The milestone win reflects Daniels’ standing among college hockey coaches. He ranks sixth in wins among active coaches, and his 33 years behind the bench is second among active coaches in total number of seasons as a head coach.

The Bulldogs participated in the first Superior Ice Showdown as part of a road series against LSSU in Central Collegiate Hockey Association play. LSSU topped FSU 4-2 in Sault Ste. Marie on Friday before Ferris State bounced back win Saturday.

Daniels joined the Ferris State’s hockey team as an assistant coach during the 1989-90 season and rose to head coach in 1992. He led Ferris State to the program’s second league regular-season championship and its first trip to the Frozen Four and, eventually, the national championship game. He is a two-time Central Collegiate Hockey Association Coach of the Year and a two-time national coach of the year.

Ferris State this year is 3-9-2, and 2-6-0 in the conference. The Bulldogs got two goals from junior forward Tyler Schleppe of Vancouver, British Columbia in Saturday's win, capping off a three-goal series for him. Lake State jumped out to a 2-0 lead for the second night in a row, but the Bulldogs were able to storm back and complete the comeback.

Timo Bakos scored the game's first goal with a power play conversion for Lake State at 1:03 in the second period. Connor Milburn collected an assist, his second assist of the series. LSSU tacked on its second goal courtesy of Milburn at 6:02 with Bakos and Blake Humphrey assisting.

Ferris State responded with two goals in eight seconds, the first of which came from Max Itagaki of Glenview, Illinois. His second goal in as many nights came on a rebound chance that he flipped past LSSU goaltender Rorke Applebee. Travis Shoudy took a shot from the point that Applebee saved, but Itagaki finished the rebound opportunity. Shoudy and Cole Burtch assisted.

Schleppe struck for the first time just eight seconds later, getting his third goal of the season and second of the weekend. He tied the game at 2-2 for the second night in a row, with Connor McGrath of LeRoy, Saskatchewan, and Trevor Taulien, of Cleveland, Wisconsin collecting assists.

Schleppe scored the game's final goal at 15:25. McGrath sent a shot on target that was saved by Applebee and tipped by Logan Heroux back to Schleppe, who fired a shot from the goal line that lit the lamp, serving as his first game-winning goal this year.

LSSU pulled Applebee for an extra attacker at 19:00, and then Taulien took an elbowing penalty, giving Lake State a 6-on-4 opportunity with 54 seconds left. The Bulldogs stood tall, not allowing a single shot from Lake State during that stretch.

With the win, Ferris State ended a six-game losing streak and collected its second conference win. Noah West of Pittsboro, Indiana won his third game of the year, stopping 14-16 shots. The 16 shots Ferris State faced was a season low.

Schleppe had the second two-goal performance of his career, with the other also coming against Lake State on Jan. 13, 2023.

Ferris State will return home for a series next weekend as the Bulldogs will welcome Augustana to Ewigleben Ice Arena for the first time. The Vikings visit Big Rapids Friday, Nov. 22 at for a 7:07 p.m. puck drop and Saturday, Nov. 23, at 6:07 p.m.

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

Monday, November 11

• At 7:27 P.M., deputies made a warrant arrest at a residence in Big Rapids Township. A male subject was arrested on a warrant. He was lodged at the Mecosta County Jail.
• At 8:04 P.M., deputies made a warrant arrest at a residence in Green Township.  A male subject was arrested on a warrant. He was lodged at the Mecosta County Jail.

Calls for Service: 23

Traffic Accidents: 10

Tuesday, November 12

• At 12:38 P.M., deputies made a traffic stop in Sheridan Township. The traffic stop resulted in the male driver being arrested on a warrant. He was lodged at the Mecosta County Jail.

Calls for Service: 30

Traffic Accidents: 6

Wednesday, November 13

• At 12:00 P.M., deputies made a warrant arrest at a residence in Big Rapids Township. A male subject was arrested on a warrant. He was lodged at the Mecosta County Jail.

Calls for Service: 14

Traffic Accidents: 7

Thursday, November 14

Calls for Service: 13

Traffic Accidents: 7

Friday, November 15

Calls for Service: 27

Traffic Accidents: 7

Saturday, November 16

• At 3:07 P.M., deputies made a warrant arrest at a residence in Morton Township. A male subject was arrested on a warrant. He was lodged at the Mecosta County Jail.

Calls for Service: 23

Traffic Accidents: 4

Sunday, November 17

Calls for Service: 19

Traffic Accidents: 5

In an announcement on Sunday, senior Ty Gielczyk became the next committed Big Rapids baseball player to play at the next level after posting his commitment to Kalamazoo Valley Community College.

“It's always been a dream of mine to play at the highest level possible,” Gielczyk said. “As I kept growing and getting older, I just kept realizing I can do this. I have a God given ability that he blessed me with.”

Gielczyk has helped Big Rapids win back-to-back outright CSAA baseball championships in his sophomore and junior seasons. He earned all-conference first team honors this past spring for his efforts on the mound with 2.04 ERA and almost 80 strikeouts as well as hitting .333 at the plate. The standout also had a key role in the inaugural summer season success for the local Post 98AA Rubberducks Legion baseball team as well as earned player of the game honors in the Michigan High School Fall Wood Bat League this fall.

The senior said he is excited for his final season on the hardwood coming up, but even more excited for one more season in a Cardinal baseball uniform. 

“Since third fourth grade, all summer and spring would be spent with my friends playing baseball. When (the) season rolls around, I'm gonna enjoy my last season with a lot of my friends that I played baseball with.”

Out of many schools that gave Gielczyk an opportunity, he picked the Cougars due to the closer feel to home, affordable schooling, and the feel for ideal team culture.

“I went on campus, talked to the coaches, and everything just felt right to me. I honestly could have decided before I left, but I wanted to talk with my parents. They truly showed how much they wanted me there, and it just felt right.”

Gielczyk also said baseball has been his favorite sport growing up. He will now suit up to fulfil a childhood dream this fall for the Cougars, who finished 33-16 last year and reached the Region XII Division II Baseball Championship. Gielczyk said he will be considering playing beyond his two years at the school, hoping to transfer up to a four-year institution following his sophomore season.

The Ferris State University football team clinched a conference championship and claimed the inaugural Calder City Classic rivalry game with a come-from-behind win over Davenport University on Saturday.

But the 24-9 victory meant something a little more to Ferris State head coach Tony Annese.

“It’s been a rough fall,” Annese said in an emotional post-game talk with media. “I lost my mom on Aug. 15. It’s been three months and one day since I lost her. Everybody was there when she passed, except for me, because I’m a football coach and I had to come back for football practice. A lot of sacrifices have been made. When I left that night, I said I wanted to dedicate this season to my mom, and the regular season is over with. I hope she’s proud. I know she is. She loved Ferris State football. She loved every part of what we do here.”

The Bulldogs, ranked No. 1 in the nation, have won 10 games in a row after dropping the season opener against Pittsburg State in Kansas. Davenport finishes the regular season 7-4 overall and 4-3 in the Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference.

Ferris State fell behind 9-7 at halftime but shut out the visiting Panthers in the second half to claim both the Calder City Classic Trophy and the outright league championship, which is the Bulldogs’ first since 2021.

With the win, Ferris State is expected to receive the program's 10th consecutive NCAA Division II Playoff berth and likely to be the top seed in Super Region Three and receive a first-round bye. The official NCAA D2 Selection Show takes place on Sunday evening at 6 p.m. at NCAA.com.

“Going into the game, we knew Davenport had a pretty sturdy and tough defense,” said quarterback Trinidad Chambliss of Grand Rapids. “We were able to find our groove in the second half, which was nice. This means a lot to me.”

Davenport start the scoring with Brandon Gielow kicking a 40-yard field goal. The Bulldogs followed with Chambliss connecting with Brady Rose for a 20-yard pass leading to a touchdown.

Gielow kicked two more field goals to take the Panthers ahead 9-7. The Ferris State defense would not let them score again, and the offense added a touchdown and two field goals to cement the 24-9 victory.

“We had a lot more three-and-outs in the second half and we weren’t stuck on the field as much in the second half as we were in the first half. Because of that, we got the ball in the hands of our offense,” said Konnor Near, a linebacker from St. Johns.

“Something I love to tell people: I don’t think I’ve ever walked on the field as a Ferris State Bulldog and thought we were going to lose or had a chance to lose. It’s just that grit we have and the confidence. We have that attitude that we earned being where we are, and we’re excited to go forward.”

Chambliss said he and the rest of the team rebounded after the 19-3 opening week loss, with a highlight of beating rival Grand Valley State University 34-7, after falling to the Lakers twice in 2023.

“I’m proud of our guys,” he said. “Our goal was to beat Grand Valley first, then end up winning the GLIAC. We’ve got bigger goals and aspirations of a national championship. We just have to take it day by day and game by game.”

The game was the first in a planned rivalry series with Davenport. The Calder City Classic which is supported by the Grand Rapids Sports Hall of Fame, returns to Davenport in 2025 with the 2026 matchup slated to be played at a neutral site in the Grand Rapids area.

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

Ferris State University wants to hear from students about their academic advising needs and what barriers to success they are facing, a project backed by a $75,000 “Quick Start” award from the Michigan Department of Lifelong Education, Advancement and Potential. 

Ferris State was one of 10 Michigan colleges and universities that received the grant, which is intended to support research and strategic planning that focuses on removing institutional barriers to success. 

“We want to give students who have chosen Ferris State everything necessary in terms of assistance to help them complete a degree,” said Michael Zaborowski, Ferris State’s director of academic advising. “Ideally, having a primary-role advisor and an instructional faculty-level counterpart to contribute ‘the right support at the right time’ would be a key component for student retention.” 

Students this month received the latest facet of the comprehensive review of academic advising needs.   

“Students at any of our campuses or studying with Ferris State online are asked for input. A parallel inquiry is now in the hands of all our advisors,” Zaborowski said. “We very much want to move to a data-driven mode of academic advising that makes the process consistent and valuable for each student.” 

MiLEAP and Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s administration offer this element of the College Success Grant program to help reach a “Sixty by ‘30” goal, where 60 percent of Michigan’s working-age adults hold a college degree or skill certificate by 2030. The current figure is 51.1 percent. 

Zaborowski said the MiLEAP support is an essential first step in optimizing academic advising for Ferris State students. 

“I have never had such a chance to make a difference in our students’ experience with academic advisors on campus,” Zaborowski said. “It is our goal to continue to assess, standardize and enhance the process and are thankful the State of Michigan has developed an umbrella of grant resources to help that happen.” 

Zaborowski also said that Ferris State hosted representatives of the National Academic Advising Association on campus in early September to speak with advisors, deans, program chairs and members of the faculty. 

“Our consultants asked them to review the strengths of current advising efforts and suggest possible opportunities for growth,” he said.

_{Release and photo provided by Ferris State University.} 

On Friday Nov. 15 at approximately 12:02 P.M., deputies from the Mecosta County Sheriff's Office were dispatched to 20 Mile Rd. and 45th Ave. in Fork Township for a single vehicle injury accident.

The accident occurred when the driver a 33-year-old male from Wisconsin was traveling westbound on 20 Mile Rd. in a Toyota passenger car and attempted to avoid a head-on collision with an oncoming vehicle that drifted into his lane. He then lost control of the vehicle and went into the ditch, before crashing into some trees. A 48-year-old female from Wisconsin was the passenger in the Toyota passenger car and received minor injuries. She was transported to Corewell Hospital in Big Rapids for treatment. The 33-year-old male was uninjured.

Deputies were assisted by Barryton Community Fire, Fork Township Rescue, Mecosta County EMS, and Meceola Central Dispatch.

The Save the Ponds Committee has announced a fundraising kick-off event to be held at Paris County Park, in Mecosta County on Friday, Nov. 22nd at 10:00 A.M. The Save The Ponds committee is a group of motivated citizens who are working to raise funding to revitalize the historic fishponds within Paris County Park. The organization has hit the ground running by partnering with the Mecosta County Community Foundation in a fiscal sponsorship agreement to establish a donation page, shortly followed by the establishment of a website and page on Facebook to promote and inform those interested in their revitalization efforts. 

The Big Splash Kick-Off event will celebrate the first large financial contribution to the project, which has been provided by the Mecosta County Board of Commissioners through an allocation of Marijuana Excise Tax funds in the amount of $75,000. Committee members invite the community to attend the check presentation and to learn more about how they can help to play a role in the initiative.

^{Recent photo of fish pond connecting raceway (courtesy of Mecosta County Park Commission).}

Additional initial partner organizations in the restoration effort include the Mecosta County Park Commission, Mecosta County Development Corporation, and Mecosta County Visitors Bureau. Kelly Wawsczyk, Director of the MCDC believes the project has great merit. “By revitalizing iconic attractions, you’re not only preserving cherished memories but also creating new opportunities for economic growth and community. Attracting visitors to a destination can significantly boost the local economy through various means: job creation, infrastructure development, increased revenue, and an enhanced quality of life for generations. I am excited to revive such an iconic attraction, allowing many families to relive memories, celebrate present moments, and create future traditions,” Wawsczyk said.

Committee Chairman Rick Hatkowski expressed the urgent need for the community to get involved. “Due to the age of these concrete structures, they are crumbling and falling apart. Walls have collapsed and the area has been closed to public access due to safety concerns. Everybody we have talked to has fond memories of the park and fishponds; we have really strong feelings about preserving this historic site. It is in rough shape, but we are going to fix it,” Hatkowski said.

The committee has established six phases of restoration with the hope that upon completion of Phases 1 and 2, the fishpond area may once again be open to public visitation while restoration and fundraising efforts continue toward Phases 3-6. Information on each phase of the project is available on the committee website.

The restoration efforts take place within Paris County Park which is managed by the Mecosta County Park Commission. Parks Superintendent, Jeff Abel, is grateful for the community led restoration initiative. “We have applied for grants and placed multiple parks millage proposals on the ballot, but to date, were unable to receive the necessary funding to restore these recreational amenities. The Park Commission is being faced with the decision of what the future holds for this historic site and permanent closure or demolition is the last thing we would want to see happen. The Save The Ponds committee sees the value in this site, as we do, and is taking action in an attempt to save these amenities for future generations to enjoy,” Abel said.

^{Photo of the front fish pond and state hatchery building from 1934 (courtesy of Mecosta County Park Commission).}

The Paris Fishponds were originally established in 1881 as the state’s second oldest fish rearing agency. The site was renovated and expanded in the 1930’s by the Works Progress Administration (WPA). The site was closed by the Department of Natural Resources in 1964, was acquired by the Mecosta County Park Commission in 1973, and was opened as a County Park in 1976. Currently one fishpond remains publicly accessible with resident Rainbow Trout for visitors to view and feed using on site fish food dispensers.

The Save The Ponds committee welcomes individuals and organizations interested in helping to preserve this historic site to attend the Kick-Off event on Friday, Nov. 22 at 10:00 A.M. It will be held at Paris County Park, located on Northland Dr. 

The committee will also be taking part in the upcoming Community Giving Day Event on Dec. 3 from 11:00 A.M. to 6:00 P.M. at the Big Rapids Eagles location. 

For additional information on the fundraising committee visit www.ParisPonds.org or “Save The Ponds – Paris, Michigan” on Facebook. For additional information on the Mecosta County Parks visit www.MecostaCountyParks.com.

_{Release and photos courtesy of the Mecosta County Park Commission?.}

The Mecosta County Sheriff’s Office continues to await the results of the Michigan State Police investigation as well as the Michigan Sheriffs’ Association’s internal investigation into how inmate Tylor Ormsbee, 26 years old, escaped a moving department transport van, leading to his death.

The incident occurred on Oct. 24 at approximately 7:40 A.M. on US-127 in Gratiot County.  His injuries were all sustained in the jump from the van. He was not hit by a vehicle.

Ormsbee was held in a rear compartment of a Mecosta County Sheriff’s Office Transport Van and was being transported to the Michigan Department of Corrections in Jackson at the time of the incident.

More details will be released once they are made available.

According to signs on the front doors, the Big Rapids ALDI location is “momentarily closed” due to a recent emergency.

There was no mention on the sign regarding what caused the closure as well as any re-opening date listed. Contact was unable to be made with ALDI or store officials to confirm any details.

SERVPRO service vehicles were seen on site as of Thursday afternoon. Please be advised for the near future that the store may be potentially closed.

More details will be released as they become available.

LIONS QB JARED GOFF QUOTE SHEET

November 13, 2024

On Lions Head Coach Dan Campbell saying that he would like to see better offensive efficiency in the second half of the season and if he agrees with that: “Yeah, I think so, and I think the last three games are kind of indicative of that. I think the Tennessee game was somewhat of an outlier, but when we weren’t in the red zone, we weren’t really moving the ball down the field and then Green Bay, just conditions and whatnot, we weren’t able to be as explosive as we wanted to, and then obviously last week wasn’t as explosive as we wanted to. So, yeah, getting that back on track, I think he’s absolutely right and it starts this week for us.”

On how much heat the Jacksonville defense can bring with Jaguars DE Travon Walker: “Yeah, they’re good, they’re really good up front. They’ve got good players all over the place and I think they’re a very talented defense and are still putting things together. But we’ve got a lot for respect for those players over there. We practiced against them a year or so ago, and seeing them up close and in person, they’re a great team.”

On how he keeps the team motivated in games that could be considered trap games: “Yeah, we’ve got a mature group. There’s not much that needs to be said. We have our own standards that, regardless of who we’re playing, regardless of what their record is, we have our own things that we want to prove and improve on, and I think that’s the biggest battle right now, is to continue to improve and know we need to improve even though we’re able to win some of these close games.”

On his comments after the game on Sunday to Lions Head Coach Dan Campbell about being different and what makes the good teams he has been on different: “Yeah, every team’s different. I think my notion there was that the adversity we’re built for is different than every other team in the League, and I think I said it after the game, the team – it is, it truly is. There are a lot of good teams in our League, but you’d be hard pressed to find some who have been through what the core group of this team has been through, so in a game like that where you dig yourself in that big of a hole, knowing we’re built for that and built to come back in those instances.”

On what he likes about having Lions RB David Montgomery more involved in the passing game: “Yeah, he’s got great hands. I think both those guys can do that, we throw it to (Lions RB Jahmyr) Gibbs and him and I thought the screen he caught the other day was a great play. But yeah, early on in the year we were able to hit him on a couple checkdowns and he was able to make some plays happen, so any time we get the ball in either of those two guys’ hands, but certainly in David’s, it’s a good thing.”

On if he felt that nothing would stop the team other than themselves after the game at Houston: “Yeah, I think so, and that’s a really good team – Houston is. But yeah, I think we dug ourselves in about as big a hole as you can dig it and still have a chance to come back, and we knew when it was 10-point game or whatever it was, 13-point game, we had a chance, we knew that. We knew it was a two-score game and felt good, we never really wavered, and I never wavered, I never lost confidence, felt like I was seeing it well, but things didn’t go our way for some of the day, and then that fourth quarter we kind of figured things out.”

On if he learned anything about himself from his performance at Houston: “Those ones are hard, those ones make you a better quarterback, and I think back to the Chicago game last year, when things kind of aren’t going your way and finding a way to win in the fourth quarter, and yeah, I feel like I became a better player through that and mentally tougher and the whole thing.”

On if winning in the manner that they did at Houston can be beneficial: “Yeah, sure. I think it was a very adverse game, win or lose. But yeah, being able to learn lessons on the winning side of things is certainly a lot easier. But yeah, I think either way, there’s a million things that we can improve on, that I can improve on, that we’re going to have to improve on if we want to continue on the trend we’re on.”

On the team being able to improve on the fly: “I don’t know about that. We’ve got a lot of work to do and today it started. I thought we worked really hard today and were intentional and our walkthrough was great. Yeah, we are very intentional about not being fooled by being 8-1 and knowing that we’ve got a ton of things to improve on. And like I said, we have to.”

On fans chanting his name during a serious situation at a Detroit Pistons game: “I’ve got no idea what you’re talking about, sorry.”

On his relationship with University of Michigan QB Davis Warren: “Yeah, Davis is awesome, I met him years ago. Shoot, I might’ve been in high school, he was young, at the Elite 11, and then I met him again when he was in high school going through his stuff he went through in high school, and then I was out throwing with him years ago. We threw with the same trainer, and I was like, ‘That kid’s good. Who’s that?’ And they were like, ‘Actually, he missed a year because of leukemia and now he’s got to go to prep school.’ And I’m like, ‘Shoot, man, whoever gets him is lucky to have him.’ It’s fun. I’ve texted back and forth with him, it’s fun that we’re both in the same state now representing the teams we do. Yeah, I’m rooting for him, he’s a good kid and I root for him.”

On what the Jacksonville defense does that gives offenses challenges like they did in their last game: “Yeah, they had a great plan, they really did for Minnesota and were able to create those turnovers and play really sticky man coverage most of the day, and yeah, they did a good job. Like I said, they’ve got really good players over there.”

Ferris State University’s Kendall College of Art and Design will be highlighting specialized programs and potential career paths in digital art, design, and illustration at Grand Rapids Comic-Con.

The event is planned for Nov. 15 to 17 at DeVos Place, 303 Monroe Ave. NW in Grand Rapids.

Comic-Con attendees interested in pursuing a creative education can stop by KCAD’s interactive booth featuring live character drawing and animation demonstrations, highlighting the innovative techniques and technology used in the college's Digital Art and Design, Graphic Design, and Illustration programs. 

The booth will also showcase some of the cutting-edge tools available to students in the FLEXlab, KCAD’s state-of-the-art digital fabrication facility. 

"We're excited to connect with Comic-Con attendees who share our passion for creativity,” said Mandy Zweifel-Hughes, KCAD assistant director of Admissions. “This event is a great opportunity for aspiring artists and designers to explore educational pathways in the creative industries."

KCAD faculty, current students, and admissions counselors will be available throughout the weekend event to connect with attendees and answer questions about programs, career paths, student life, and the application process.

Find KCAD’s booth during Grand Rapids Comic-Con, on Friday, Nov. 15 from noon to 7 p.m., Saturday Nov. 16 from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Sunday, Nov. 17, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

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

To communicate with all members of the community, the City of Big Rapids announced Tuesday that they will be offering a new texting service that will notify residents of emergency and safety alerts.

This includes things like road closures, water advisories, and other public safety issues.

“This is just another way for (the city) to connect to residents outside of social media,” City of Big Rapids Communications Director Steve Gove said.

According to Gove, the service currently has over 100 people signed up. Residents can sign up via the City of Big Rapids website at https://www.cityofbr.org/news_detail_T3_R23.php.

As part of a national movement to honor and show support for family caregivers, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer has proclaimed November as Family Caregivers Month in Michigan. This effort raises awareness of the critical role family caregivers play in providing a broad range of assistance for older adults, service members, veterans, people with disabilities, and those with serious or chronic health conditions. 

“An estimated 1.7 million family caregivers in our state step up every day to ensure their loved ones can live in their own homes and communities for as long as possible regardless of age or disability status,” said Elizabeth Hertel, Michigan Department of Health and Human Services director. “We are committed to supporting these caregivers not only this month, but every month." 

“The Commission on Services to the Aging welcomes the Governor’s recognition of the important work done by family caregivers,” said Nancy Duncan, Commission on Services to the Aging Advocacy Committee chair. “Their care, love and dedication allow older adults to remain safely at home as they age.” 

Resources for family caregivers include support groups, toolkits and workshops through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, advocacy organizations and community-based services. A Michigan Care Kit is available from Caring Across Generations and additional resources are available through the Caregiver Action Network and AARP Resources for Caregivers and their Families. 

“Caregivers experience the impact of caring on their time, with implications for their health, family, work and personal and financial well-being,” said David LaLumia, 4AM executive director.?“Caregivers deserve our gratitude and our support.? This month, we are pleased to recognize their many contributions to some of our most vulnerable citizens.”  

"Family caregivers are the unsung heroes in our communities, providing essential care that enable loved ones to age with dignity at home," said Paula D. Cunningham, AARP Michigan state director. "This month, and every month, we honor their dedication and recognize the invaluable support they offer to Michigan's older adults and families." 

According to the Caregiver Action Network, more than half of those providing care in the United States do not recognize themselves as caregivers. Caregiving can include day-to-day support as well as periodic tasks such as attending doctor’s appointments, maintaining and assisting with medications and helping manage finances.  

For more information on supporting caregivers, visit Behavioral and Physical Health and Aging Services Administration (BPHASA). 

On Tuesday, Nov. 12, deputies from Mecosta County Sheriff's Office were dispatched to a single vehicle crash. The crash occurred on southbound US-131 near mile marker 142. 

It was found upon arrival that the driver, a 70-year old female from Cadillac, had been struck by a deer. The passenger of the vehicle, a 77 year old female from Cadillac, had minor non-life threatening injuries from air bag deployment. The female was transported to Big Rapids Corewell Health for the minor injuries.

The Mecosta County Sheriff's Office was assisted by Meceola Central Dispatch, Mecosta County EMS, Big Rapids City Fire & Rescue, Life EMS, and Jerry’s Towing.

Ferris State University is mourning the passing of Bette Hartig, a proud alumna and employee who has been part of the university family for more than 60 years.

Hartig, 97, passed away on Saturday, Nov. 9 in Big Rapids. She was a fixture at Ferris State football games for decades and also active in the Big Rapids artistic community, sharing her love of working with wood.

Hartig was honored in October as grand marshal of Ferris State’s 2024 Homecoming celebration, riding in the parade through downtown Big Rapids, saluted at halftime of the football game, and was enthusiastically received at the evening’s volleyball match, posing for photos with the team.

 “I have always been happy in Big Rapids, returning after some time as a secondary school teacher in Port Huron,” Hartig said earlier this fall as she was honored by the university. “Through most of my career to now, I remain close to Ferris and the campus.”

Born in Alma, Hartig studied at Ferris State College in the 1960s and taught high school physical education classes before returning to Big Rapids and Ferris State as an employee in 1970.

She served two years as a “house mother,” followed by two years assisting the director of housing.  before coordinating student activities and taking on the role of director in the Rankin Student Center, the precursor to what is now the David L. Eisler Center on the Big Rapids campus.

Hartig continued to stay involved with the university after retiring, cheering on the football team from seats at the 50-yard line for decades. 

She enjoyed being around the bustling campus and meeting students – and leaders. Hartig said she got to know 14 of the university’s 19 presidents.

“I think part of the reason I liked it is because it involved students, and I like kids,” Hartig told 9&10 News in October.

When she was not cheering on the Bulldogs, Hartig was working on her hobby, carving wood in her basement studio.

She did not get involved with the artistic community until about 20 years ago, when she was inspired by attending an event in Evart with hundreds of woodcarvers.

“I met a middle school teacher from Big Rapids who was carving there, and she got me interested," Hartig told The Pioneer in 2020. "The rest is history. She and I started the Woodwackers Carving Club in Big Rapids, which still exists today.”

She became an active volunteer at Artworks, a Big Rapids creative community, and was honored by the organization in 2020.

 Hartig published her memoir, “Yours Truly: A Michigan Life,” through Sooner Started Press in November 2023. The 158-page book is available on Amazon.

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

Monday, October 28

• Officers took a report of a car/deer accident. There was minor damage to the vehicle and no injuries.
• Officer took a report of a stolen leaf rake.

Tuesday, October 29

• Officers investigated and served an abatement notice regarding a business operating in violation of residential zoning.

• Officers received information as to the whereabouts of a 46-year-old man with seven outstanding warrants. He was located and taken into custody.

• Officer took a complaint of harassment between family members.

Wednesday, October 30

• No incidents reported.

Thursday, October 31

• Officers took a suspicious person complaint regarding two men hanging around the rear of an apartment complex maintenance garage. The officer checked the area but was unable to located anyone.
• Officers received a complaint of a possible fight during trick or treating. The individuals were located and spoken to. It was determined to be a verbal argument. All involved were cautioned on their behavior.

Friday, November 1

• Officers received a complaint that a teenager had failed to return home after school. The teen was located at a friend’s house and transported home.

• Officers were called to assist an individual in getting their car hood open. They were trying to get their cat to come out from the engine compartment.

• Officers were called to a residence regarding a disturbance. Two individuals, who don’t reside together, have children in common and the woman was yelling at the man. A 40-year-old woman was issued an appearance citation for not having insurance in her vehicle and driving without her license.

Saturday, November 2

• Officers stopped a vehicle for having no taillights after dark. It was determined the driver had forgotten to turn them on. The resulting investigation led to the arrest of a 74-year-old man for Operating While Impaired.

• Officers received a call about a possible scam involving HVAC cleaning services on Facebook. The caller just wanted police to be aware.

Sunday, November 3

• No incidents reported.

Monday, November 4

• An officer responded to a call of a teen on probation leaving the residence in violation of probation and larceny. The teen was also transported for evaluation after making suicidal statements.
• An officer assisted another department in verifying that a firearm was secure and inaccessible to a child, after the child had mentioned it. The firearm was found to be secured.

Tuesday, November 5

• An officer was dispatched to RCH to assist with and uncooperative patient receiving help for mental health issues.

Wednesday, November 6

• Officers assisted until deputies arrived after a teen’s notebook was found with drawings of firearms. The investigation is being handled by the Sheriff's Office.
  An officer received information as to the possible whereabouts of a wanted individual. The investigation revealed the individual has likely fled the state.

Thursday, November 7

• An officer went to an address to do a well check on two students after the assistant principal, of a school in a neighboring county, called due to the kids being absent from school in a couple of weeks. The officer contacted the parent and talked to the kids. It was determined parent custody issues were the cause.

Friday, November 8

• An officer was dispatched to check a residence after a door was found to be unlocked. The house was found to be secure and it is believed that the type of door lock caused it to be accidentally unlocked when the occupant was leaving.

Saturday, November 9

• An officer responded to a call about several smaller children walking along the highway. The officer found the kids were preteens just walking to a friend house.

• An officer assisted Evart PD on a warrant attempt.

• While patrolling, an officer observed a large pile of trash and refuse by road in front of a house. The officer spoke to the homeowner and the trash was removed.

• An officer investigated a 911 hang up call. The officer made it to the location and it turned out  to be an accidental dial.

Sunday, November 10

• No incidents reported.

On Friday, Nov. 8, a multi-jurisdictional task force conducted a human trafficking and sextortion operation hosted by the Mecosta County Sheriff's Office. The operation was set to target consumers of human trafficking/sextortion and prostitution and took place in Rogers Heights. 

At the conclusion of the operation, one male, 53-year old Erik Lundquist of Comstock Park, was arrested for solicitation and accosting a minor. During course of contact, law enforcement also arrested him for OWI. Lundquist was lodged in the Mecosta County Jail. He has since posted bond is awaiting his next court date. A 48-year-old male from Grand Rapids was also arrested for solicitation/prostitution. He is awaiting arraignment.

The task force also consisted of the Mecosta County Sheriff's Office, Newaygo County Sheriff's Office , Montcalm County Sheriff's Office, Osceola County Sheriff's Office, Big Rapids Department of Public Safety, Ferris State University Department, and City of Mt. Pleasant Public Safety. The task force was also assisted by the Meceola Consolidated Central Dispatch Authority and Currie's Towing. All decoys used in the operation were adults and no children were involved or harmed.

Monday, November 4

Calls for Service: 22

Traffic Accidents: 4

Tuesday, November 5

• No incidents reported.

Wednesday, November 6

Calls for Service: 12

Traffic Accidents: 5

Thursday, November 7

• At around 12:00 P.M., deputies recovered stolen property from a couple residences in Montcalm County. The property was was stolen out of a storage unit in Mecosta Township a couple months ago.

• At 12:52 P.M., deputies responded to a domestic incident at a residence in Mecosta Township. A female subject was arrested for assault. She was lodged at the Mecosta County Jail.

• At around 9:48 P.M., deputies responded to a domestic incident at a residence in Mecosta Township. A male subject was arrested for assault. He was lodged at the Mecosta County Jail.  

Calls for Service: 15

Traffic Accidents: 6

Friday, November 8

• At around 11:00 A.M., deputies recovered stolen property from a residence in Newaygo County. The property was stolen out of a storage unit in Mecosta Township back in September.
• At 11:54 P.M., deputies made a traffic stop in Mecosta Township. The traffic stop resulted in the male driver being arrested for OWI and soliciting a minor for immoral purposes. He was lodged at the Mecosta County Jail.

Calls for Service: 18

Traffic Accidents: 2

Saturday, November 9

• At 12:34 P.M. deputies made a warrant arrest at a residence in Wheatland Township. A male subject was arrested on a warrant and lodged at the Mecosta County Jail.

Calls for Service: 17

Traffic Accidents: 5

Sunday, November 10

Calls for Service: 11

Traffic Accidents: 1

Tonight, the Big Rapids City Commission is meeting at City Hall on Monday, Nov. 11, at 6:30 P.M, to discuss several agenda items.

Business items include resolutions and approvals for the following projects:

• Local governing body resolution for charitable gaming license with TNR Mecosta

• Approving a Class C liquor license for Paula Jean Beilfuss

• Authorizing an appropriation to the Mecosta County Development Corporation for Provision of Economic Development, Recruitment and Retention Services

• Approving a traffic control order regarding 10-minute parking along the south side of the 100 block of Maple St. becoming permanent

• Accepting a proposal for well drilling at Northend Riverside Park for a restroom facility

• Discussing a contract with Preservation Forward for Historic District Designation Project regarding the old Mecosta County Jail building

• Denying a special land use permit for a home occupation of a dog grooming business at 507 Winter Ave.

The meeting will also include a Big Rapids Community Pool discussion with Director of Community Development, Michelle Stenger, as well as a Big Rapids Community Library update with Library Director, Lauren Perkins.

All city commission meetings are available to the public.

The Ferris State University football team won its ninth straight game on Saturday, holding off a tough Saginaw Valley State University team 27-24 at Top Taggart Field.

The Bulldogs, the No. 1 ranked NCAA Division II team in the nation, won by the narrowest margin of the year, and faced the prospect of tie game late in the fourth quarter, spared when a field goal attempt by Saginaw Valley’s Rodrigo Castaneda sailed wide right with just 4:49 left in the game.

Ferris State ran out the clock to end the game, boosting the season record to 9-1 and perfect 6-0 against Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference opponents. The team has not lost since the opening week contest against Pittsburg State University in Kansas.

Head coach Tony Annese noted the No. 1 ranking has changed hands in the last three weeks with top teams falling.

“In the last three weeks, Harding was No. 1. They lost. Then Grand Valley was No. 1. They lost. Then Pittsburg State was No. 1, and they lost. Then here comes Ferris State,” he said. “Thank god we held on because it’s just been crazy.”

Saginaw Valley’s 24 points were the most allowed by the Bulldogs all season. The team had outscored opponents 405-69 since the Pittsburg State lost.

“I’m relieved that we won,” Annese said. “The numbers are pretty good. We utilized our speed and made good plays. We got really aggressive to start the third quarter with a gimmick play. We ended up losing the momentum for a little bit, but we tried to make some big plays.”  

The Cardinals started the scoring with Joseph Walker and quarterback Mason McKenzie teaming up for a 56-yard pass to finish a six-play, 85-yard drive and take a 7-0 lead with 8:50 left in the first quarter.

Ferris State bounced back with a trick play, with strongside linebacker Brady Rose passing to wide receiver Cam Underwood for a 58-yard touchdown to tie the game at 7.

The Cardinals pulled into the lead again with Castaneda sending the ball through the uprights for a 27-yard field goal.

Ferris State quarterback Trinidad Chambliss put the Bulldogs ahead with pass to James Gilbert, and kicker Mitch Middleton’s extra-point brought the score to 14-10. Middleton

SVSU moved in front once more when McKenzie sprinted 36 yards into the end zone, with the extra point taking score to 17-14.

The Bulldogs reclaimed the lead with Chambliss rushing four yards to go ahead 20-17, and the team never looked back, finishing 27-24.

Middleton was chosen as the GLIAC Special Teams Player of the Week for the second time this year following last week's win over Northern Michigan.

He was the second Bulldog standout to earn multiple league awards this year, joining Chambliss, who had won four consecutive GLIAC Offensive Player of the Week mentions prior to this past week. Chambliss has been honored with the award five times overall this campaign.

SVSU is now 7-3 overall and 4-2 against GLIAC teams. The team was coming off a hard-fought victory over Davenport University, which is headed to Big Rapids next Saturday to end of the regular season for the first Calder City Classic rivalry game, starting at 1 p.m.

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

Ferris State University volleyball standout Syann Fairfield knows she can always look to the stands for inspiration and support.

Her mother, Jenny DeJohn, rarely misses her daughter’s matches, home or away. Father Shane Fairfield is a highly successful head varsity football coach at Muskegon High School who led the Big Reds to the 2023 Michigan High School Athletic Association Division II state championship. He, too, is often nearby when his daughter needs a boost.

That support has helped the 6-foot tall Bulldog middle hitter soar to new heights with her teammates so far this fall.

Ferris State's volleyball team is undefeated, and this week was ranked No. 1 in the nation in the American Volleyball Coaches Association NCAA Division II poll. The university fields a perennially strong team, but this is just the second time the Bulldogs reached the top of the rankings.

"Growing up, I knew Ferris had great volleyball and football programs. My dad and T.A. (Ferris State football head coach Tony Annese) are super close,” Fairfield said. “It has been cool being here in Big Rapids. It feels like my second hometown. Having someone to always look up to and someone who's going to be there for you, and who is experienced in that sense. He has helped me as an athlete growing up. He understands how things work, how to handle adversity, and what comes with being an athlete in a team sport."

Before, and maybe sometimes during a match, Fairfield is at ease knowing she can find her mom, too, beaming a familiar smile with supportive energy.

"I think my mom has missed maybe one match, and that was, I think, my sophomore year on a trip to the U.P.,” Fairfield said. “She wasn't sure whether I was going to play and because she is also a teacher that makes it hard for her to get all those days off. This year she has been amazing and does not miss a game, does not miss a warmup, does not miss taking me to dinner after the games or anything. She is amazing. I'm grateful."

Fairfield is feeling the love from her parents and her older sister, Raven, among others.

"Because it's my senior year, I feel like everyone is making it such a priority, which is super special to me," she said with a smile.

Fairfield graduated from North Muskegon High School where she set the school's all-time kills record on her way to earning All-State recognition multiple times.

As a sophomore at Ferris State, Fairfield began to be recognized for her skills. She led the Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference with 124 total blocks and the Bulldogs with 470.5 points. She finished the campaign with 363 kills and a team-best .272 hitting percentage.

Competing on a deep and talented Bulldog team, Fairfield continued her strong play the next season as she played in all 35 team matches and totaled 262 kills and a .277 hitting percentage. A well-rounded student-athlete, Fairfield was a GLIAC All-Academic team selection.

Last fall, Ferris State advanced to the NCAA Division II Midwest Region Tournament for the third straight season, falling by a 3-1 score to the University of Missouri-St. Louis, finishing the season 27-8.

In 2024, the Bulldogs are a particularly motivated group.

"We knew we had a tough schedule, and we know our conference is always good," Fairfield said. "We're always up against great competition. We weren't coming into the season expecting anything. We were coming into the year ready to work hard to get better every day and see where that takes us." 

So far, it has taken Ferris State to rarely achieved heights. With or without that top national ranking, Fairfield feels fortunate to be a Bulldog.

"This season has been super special," she said. "I love being part of this team with this group. We have gone through all the ups and downs, coming in as freshmen, and now here we are in our 'Grandma season' of volleyball."

"Grandma season" referenced a comment by fellow senior Kaylee Maat, the Bulldogs' standout setter, about a well-seasoned group of experienced seniors getting going this fall.

Beyond the gratification of competing with a group of seniors who have been together through thick and thin, Fairfield is excited about how the team plays together.

"I think one thing that has made it special is that we have different players who are stepping up, playing their roles and making plays to help us be successful," she said. "No matter who is in the game, we all work hard and play well together and support each other. We're always pushing each other to be at our best."

Ferris State is off to a 24-0 start, including a 13-0 mark in the GLIAC heading into a home contest on Friday, Nov. 8, at 5 p.m. and on Saturday afternoon, Nov. 9, at 5 p.m., against Michigan Tech University.

So far, the battle-tested Bulldogs have only been stretched to five sets twice in the face of a rigorous schedule that will only get tougher.

"We have won a lot of games, but that's not what really matters," Fairfield said. "What really matters is coming to the gym every day, working hard, getting better, noticing what we can do to improve. We will continue to work toward our goals and keep improving."

_{Photo and release courtesy of Ferris State Athletics.}

LIONS HEAD COACH DAN CAMPBELL QUOTE SHEET

November 8, 2024

Opening Statement: “It’s been a good week, we have one more day here full-speed to prepare for this opponent. But it’s been good, guys are locked in and we’re looking forward to it. This will be a great matchup, on the road, their place, Sunday night, it’s pretty exciting. That’s really it.”

On if Lions DL Za’Darius Smith is in the building today: “He is, we’ll have him out there, get him moving around a little bit and we’re prepared to see what we can do and where we can go with it.”

On if there is concern that Lions T Taylor Decker’s injury will affect his game status: “Yeah, I don’t see him practicing today. It’s really about how he heals up. I don’t feel like this is something major, but we need to see, really, how he feels over the next 48 hours.”

On how much Lions DL Za’Darius Smith can impact the defense: “Yeah, there again I think it’s – impact is really doing your job. How does it play into what everybody else is doing? And so, I would say it can help. That’s one of the reasons he’s here.”

On if there are any concerns about the uncharacteristic run defense the last couple weeks and if Lions DL Za’Darius Smith can help in that area: “Yeah, look I would say, most of those, when you look at it, what’s really popped up is, we’re handling the run well and all of a sudden, we give up an explosive. One guy doesn’t fit the gap right – we had that the other day, we had a couple guys that were out of a gap, and it shut the other guy off and now all of a sudden it hits. We have a couple that are where they’re supposed to be but they’re not shedding off the block. They’re not giving off the block to the tight end or the tackle, then all of a sudden it runs by them, and so those are the things where we have to be better. We can’t allow these explosive runs, like Houston, (Texans RB Joe) Mixon will expose you if you allow that to continue. So, it’s a point of emphasis, it’s why we padded up yesterday, it’s why we go through the technique work. To answer your question, yeah, Za’Darius can help there. And look, we’re getting (Lions DL Josh) Paschal back too, that helps.”

On if allowing explosives is an issue that all 11 players on defense are responsible for: “Always, because inevitably what happens – it’s like this, any portion of your team, any area of the team, it’s one thing to not do your job, whatever the reason may be. That’s one thing. But what happens is, if it happens a couple of times, then a player – the other player who does do his job, he begins to try to do more for you when you shouldn’t have to. And that’s not the way you – that’s not how you succeed. So, then he’s doing what he shouldn’t be and now he’s out of position and it begins to trickle, and you lose trust. So, we can’t have the trust crumblers. We have to eliminate that, but it does. Everybody’s got a job to do, do your job and do it violently. We were talking yesterday about one of our players, and I said, ‘Do you think if you told him his life depended on getting in this gap and playing this gap, he could do it?’ And you kind of have to think that way. You really kind of have to have that mentality.”

On if players practicing in pads depends on the opponent and what happened the week before: “Sometimes, yeah sometimes that plays into it, but I think it’s really the last two weeks on Wednesday, we’ve backed off considerably for recovery. Ordinarily, I don’t love putting guys in pads on Thursday, but yet, you’re getting the recovery and then just to get – there again, we did it the first portion of practice, you’re talking about eight plays and a little one-on-one. I just think it gives you confidence, it forces you to play a little bit lower, your hands, it’s just – it’s game-like and just for a few shots. Now, you can’t do that every week. But I feel like it was good for us last week, I feel like it’s going to be good for us this week.”

On if it is a coaching feel or statistically better to go for a two-point conversion to win a game: “Yeah, I think it’s a feel thing and I would never second-guess what a coach on another team does in that situation. You have to go by what your gut tells you and how the game’s playing out, what the opponent is, how are you playing. I just, I do I think there’s a ton of things that go into it and there’s no right or wrong answer. It really is a feel thing. And you can go in thinking one way, ‘If it comes down to this, this is what I would do.’ And all of a sudden, that could very easily change once you get in a certain type of game.”

On if going for a two-point conversion to win the game depends on the opponent’s quarterback: “That plays into it as well. That plays into it.”

On why it was important to give Lions DL Za’Darius Smith rest over the last two days: “Yeah well, I think for him in particular – I think each case is kind of unique, right, and his is unique in the fact, number one, he’s a veteran player. He’s got a lot of miles on the body, and he can still do it, but it’s also, I think it’s important for him to be able to get a little bit of a breather. That’s one, two is that you just got traded. It’s a whirlwind. All of a sudden, ‘I was here, we were getting ready for the team photo, was going into the bye, now all of a sudden I drive up here to Detroit and oh by the way, there was a hurricane that hit down south where my house is.’ There’s just, there’s these things and I think it creates some stress that you can alleviate. That’s more important than we have to force the issue right now and I would rather him be of sound body and mind for the rest of this long haul than I would try to force the issue right now.”

On what he has seen on film from Texans QB CJ Stroud and how he has improved from his rookie year: “Yeah, look he’s impressive. I’ll tell you what, you can tell he’s smart. For a young quarterback, he’s smart, he can key and diagnose, he’s tough, he’ll stand in the pocket but yet he’s got pocket awareness to where he can maneuver and then you let him get outside and I think one of the things that he’s done really a good job of – he did it last year – is when he begins to move, his eyes are downfield. He feels the rush, but he doesn’t see the rush and so he’s – and that’s what makes him so dangerous. I showed the team this morning a number of clips where when he gets on the perimeter and he can see it, he’s making these throws. You give him just a tick of time in the pocket and he’s making them. So, he’s dangerous in that regard and you can never count him out. So, they got one over there. I think he’s going to be a good player in this League for a long time to come and we have to be ready. We have to play tight coverage on these receivers, we have to shut down (Texans RB Joe) Mixon, I think he’s the key, but this guy will hurt you.”

On what his sense is of Lions DL Za’Darius Smith as a person and how he will fit in with the team: “I really haven’t had that much time to be around him, it was literally we signed him, talked for a little bit, and then he just got back for today. So, I haven’t had that much time, I just know what I’ve seen and what I’ve heard from other people, and he does have an energy about him that mirrors up with his play style. So, I just think in that regard, a guy that – look if you play defense and you’ve had the production he has, then alright, you know the type of football player. We’ve played against him, Minnesota, Green Bay. So we know what that is but he’s tough, he’s violent and he’s got a motor and then we’re not even talking about potentially outside or inside, getting in the edge and pass rush, and just helping whether that’s straight rush or running the games. So, I just think he’s going to be a perfect fit for us.”

On Lions Defensive Coordinator Aaron Glenn having water on his glasses at the Packers game: “Yeah, that was pretty good. At one point, and I don’t know – we were in the heat of battle there and I just remember – I said something, ‘AG we got to be ready for this and wipe your glasses off.’ He’s like, ‘I got you.’ Yeah, that was pretty good. He doesn’t need eyes to coach.”

On if they have decided if Lions DL Za’Darius Smith will play on Sunday: “We have not.”

On Friday, Nov. 8 at 2:49 P.M., deputies from the Mecosta County Sheriff's Office were dispatched to Northland Dr. at the intersection of Hayes Rd. for a two-vehicle crash.

The investigation found that a 24-year-old male from Stanwood turned westbound in front of a 28-year-old female from Big Rapids, who was headed southbound resulting in a crash. The 24-year-old male received minor injuries and did not require hospitalization. An 8-year-old female, who was a passenger with the 28-year-old female, received minor non life-threatening injuries and was transported to the Big Rapids Corewell Health Hospital for treatment. 

Deputies were assisted by Meceola Central Dispatch, Mecosta TWP Fire, Mecosta County EMS, and Currie's Towing. 

Kate O’Connor knew right where to go when a warning light on her Audi’s dashboard lit up: Back to work, to see students in Ferris State University’s Automotive Service Floor.

O’Connor is dean of Ferris State’s College of Engineering Technology, which prepares students for rewarding careers in a variety of fields. The Automotive Service Technology program trains people to become skilled technicians able to perform preventive maintenance, wide ranging repairs, and adjustments to all kinds of vehicles.

Students gain hands-on experience working interacting with customers and working with vehicles in the Automotive Service Floor, which is open to the public during the fall and spring semesters.

“This is my seventh Audi, a brand I have been faithful to as I admire their technology,” O’Connor said. “One evening I was going to run an errand, and my husband and I determined my car needed a battery, right away.”

O’Connor got in touch with Ferris alumnus and Assistant Professor Jeremy Themm, who welcomed her bringing the car to the service floor, which serves a steady stream of customers from the university and the greater community.

“Jeremy said the students could do the job and my being their dean was in no way taking advantage of their efforts,” O’Connor said. “I was treated so professionally, from the intake process to the installation, where assistant professor Paul McNair was supervising students as they helped each other complete the task. It was a wonderful learning experience to see first-hand.”

The service floor is open mornings, and customers are asked to call (231) 591-5991 oe email auto@ferris.edu to schedule an appointment.

The university does not charge for labor other than a $10 shop fee to cover some costs. Customers are charged for parts, which are purchased through Ferris State’s accounts to ensure repair accuracy, part warranty, and timely vehicle turnaround.

Ferris State has been a leader in automotive training for more than 50 years.

Students can earn an associate degree in the Automotive Service Technology program, then have the opportunity to build upon their education by pursuing a bachelor’s degree in automotive management or Automotive Engineering Technology within the School of Automotive and Heavy Equipment.

The Automotive Engineering Technology program that prepares students to apply basic engineering principles and technical skills in support of engineers and other professionals engaged in developing, manufacturing, and testing self-propelled ground vehicles and their systems.

The Automotive Management degree offers a blend of technical expertise and management skills and principles. The program provides practical exercises and project work that use current industry examples, processes and systems to simulate realistic research and problem-solving situations at manufacturer, supplier and retailer levels.

O’Connor expects to be a return customer. She recently acquired an 1978 MGB, sharing her father’s love for MG sports cars.

“I had some service done, with a Ferris-educated technician handling that work,” O’Connor said. “Our conversation about the car and his education was delightful and I was very impressed by the work done. I know now I can look to our Automotive students on the service floor and program graduates with area shops, when I am looking to have maintenance or repairs done, down the line.”

_{Photo and release courtesy of Ferris State University.}

Monday, October 28

• At 1:31 P.M., deputies made a traffic stop in Aetna TWP. The traffic stop resulted in the male driver being arrested for OUID. He was lodged at the Mecosta County Jail.

Calls for Service: 30

Traffic Accidents: 7

Tuesday, October 29

• No incidents reported.

Wednesday, October 30

?Calls for Service: 28

Traffic Accidents: 6

Thursday, October 31

Calls for Service: 17

Traffic Accidents: 4

Friday, November 1

Calls for Service: 23

Traffic Accidents: 11

Saturday, November 2

• At 1:20 P.M., deputies responded to an accident in Fork Twp. Additional investigation led to a male subject being arrested on a warrant and for possession of methamphetamine.

Calls for Service: 18

Traffic Accidents: 8

Sunday, November 3

Calls for Service: 11

Traffic Accidents: 8

On Wednesday, Nov. 6 at approximately 4:39 P.M., the Osceola County Sheriff’s Department responded to a residence in Hersey Township to execute a high-risk search warrant.

The search, which used assistance with the Northern Michigan Mutual Aid Emergency Response Team, was successful. Results of the search included the recovery of stolen property and the arrest of a suspect.

The investigation is ongoing and anyone with information about break-ins or stolen property in the area is asked to contact the Sheriff’s Office at 231-832-2288. More information will be released once it's made public.

The 2024 Ferris Foundation for Excellence Benefit will celebrate Ferris State University’s 140 years while sharing a dynamic vision for the university’s future.

The event is planned for Friday, Nov. 8 at the JW Marriott, 235 Louis St. in Grand Rapids. Proceeds from the benefit support the foundation’s mission of developing external support for Ferris State students, faculty, and staff. Tickets and sponsorship opportunities are available.

Ferris State President Bill Pink said the benefit will highlight the university’s mission of providing a quality education to anyone in Michigan, and how that work has developed leaders serving the state and beyond.

“This year’s Ferris Foundation for Excellence Benefit will provide us with an amazing opportunity in Grand Rapids, in the heart of West Michigan, to celebrate a rich 140-year legacy of Ferris State University achievement and set a course for our next 140 years,” Pink said.

The Ferris Foundation was established in 1991 to receive, invest and distribute endowment gifts to provide a source of perpetual support for the university. The Opportunity Endowed Scholarship and faculty and staff merit grants are key components of The Ferris Foundation’s efforts.

“Ferris State University has a longstanding commitment to ensuring access to a college education for students that spans its 140-year history – a legacy started in 1884 by Woodbridge and Helen Ferris,” said Arlen-Dean Gaddy, who chairs the foundation’s board of directors. “Today, our work at The Ferris Foundation is as inspired as ever by that ongoing commitment to our students.”

The Ferris Foundation Executive Board includes chair-elect Jenifer Cuter, Class of 2001; Secretary Emily Hancock, Class of 1976; Kathy Mullins, vice president for University Advancement and Marketing, Class of 2013; treasurer Amanda Matheson, vice president for Administration and Finance; and Jennifer Todd, executive director of The Ferris Foundation and associate vice president for Advancement.

“On behalf of The Ferris Foundation Board of Directors, we look forward to celebrating this outstanding legacy and sharing the great things our people are doing at Ferris State University with everyone as we continue to move Ferris forward,” Gaddy said.

The program will honor former Ferris State leaders and recognize academic programs that have provided generations of students with in-demand skills leading to rewarding careers. Pink, Vice President for Diversity, Inclusion and Strategic Initiatives David Pilgrim, and other special guests are planned to participate in the program.

“Our annual benefit is a wonderful celebration of Ferris State University’s mission and the remarkable achievements of our students,” Mullins said. “This is going to be a night you won’t want to miss, and one you will remember for years to come. While our university has proudly served our community for 140 years, we are just beginning to unlock new possibilities for the future.”   

Pink said the benefit is an evening to bring students, faculty, staff, alumni and other university supporters together to reflect on the work that has happened and what is to come.   

“This will be a night for the Bulldog family to come together to celebrate our past, current and future impact,” Pink said. “Our generous donors bless us with support that helps break down the barriers for student access to a Ferris State degree and to ensure innovation and excellence remain at the heart of our work.”

For more information, including about tickets and sponsorship opportunities, contact Kimberly Erickson at (231) 591-3825 or email FerrisFoundation@ferris.edu. 

_{Photo and release credit to Ferris State University.}

These are the results for the Nov. 5 General Election for Osceola County and Village commissioner, safety, and information representative races: 

LAST UPDATED: 8:30 A.M. 11/6/2024

Osceola County Prosecuting Attorney (Four Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Anthony Badovinac, REP, Marion (INCUMBENT) - 9846
• WRITE-IN - 132

Osceola County Sheriff (Four Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Mark Cool, REP, LeRoy (INCUMBENT) - 10078
• WRITE-IN - 105

Osceola County Clerk (Four Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Tracey Cochran, REP, Hersey (INCUMBENT) - 9918
• WRITE-IN - 99

Osceola County Treasurer (Four Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Tonia Hartline, REP, Tustin (INCUMBENT) - 9841
• WRITE-IN - 119

Osceola County Register of Deeds (Four Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Heather Gray, REP, Hersey (INCUMBENT) - 9825
• WRITE-IN - 108

Osceola County Road Commissioner (Six Year Term) – Two Seats Available

• Doug Kanouse, REP, LeRoy - 9435
• Gary Wemple, REP, Tustin (INCUMBENT) - 8628
• WRITE-IN - 161

Osceola County Drain Commissioner (Four Year Term) – One Seat Available

• David Belden, REP, Reed City (INCUMBENT) - 9724
• WRITE-IN - 116

1st District County Commissioner (Four Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Gregory Gydesen, REP, Reed City (INCUMBENT) - 1485
• WRITE-IN - 14

2nd District County Commissioner (Four Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Mark Gregory, REP, LeRoy (INCUMBENT) - 1745
• WRITE-IN - 11

3rd District County Commissioner (Four Year Term) – One Seat Available

• David Turner, REP, Marion (INCUMBENT) - 1257
• WRITE-IN - 8

4th District County Commissioner (Four Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Timothy Mitchell, REP, Marion (INCUMBENT) - 1633
• WRITE-IN - 25

5th District County Commissioner (Four Year Term) – One Seat Available

• James Custer, REP, Evart (INCUMBENT) - 1232
• WRITE-IN - 31

6th District County Commissioner (Four Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Scott Steig, REP, Hersey (INCUMBENT) - 1344
• WRITE-IN - 15

7th District County Commissioner (Four Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Russ Nehmer, REP, Reed City - 1033
• WRITE-IN - 26

Village of Hersey

President (2 Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Karen Huisman, NP, Hersey - 138
• WRITE-IN - 6

Trustee (4 Year Term) – Two Seats Available

• Sarah Sharp, NP, Hersey - 130
• WRITE-IN - 25 - TBD

Village of LeRoy

President (2 Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Adam Johnson, NP, LeRoy - 128
• WRITE-IN - 1

Trustee (4 Year Term) – Two Seats Available

• Kirk Edstrom, NP, LeRoy - 105
• Diane Vandercook, NP, LeRoy - 106
• WRITE-IN - 1

Village of Marion

President (2 Year Term) – One Seat Available

• WRITE-IN - 54 - TBD

Trustee (4 Year Term) – Two Seats Available

• Dave Swiler, NP, Marion - 253
• Tony Maddox, NP, Marion - 137
• Trent Mitchell, NP, Marion - 205
• WRITE-IN - 4

Village of Tustin

President (2 Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Ryan Erickson, NP, Tustin - 79
• WRITE-IN - 0

Treasurer (2 Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Kayla Erickson, NP, Tustin - 78
• WRITE-IN - 0

Trustee (4 Year Term) – Two Seats Available

• Lou Ann Anderson, NP, Tustin - 75
• WRITE-IN - 0

These are the results for the Nov. 5 General Election for Mecosta County and Village commissioner, safety, and information representative races: 

LAST UPDATED: 12:49 A.M. 11/6/2024

Mecosta County Prosecuting Attorney (4 Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Jonathan Peterson, REP, Big Rapids (INCUMBENT) - 16697
• WRITE-IN - 310

Mecosta County Sheriff (4 Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Brian Miller, REP, Big Rapids (INCUMBENT) - 17234
• WRITE-IN - 362

Mecosta County Clerk (4 Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Marcee Purcell, REP, Big Rapids (INCUMBENT) - 17161
• WRITE-IN - 327

Mecosta County Treasurer (4 Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Sherry Earnest, REP, Big Rapids (INCUMBENT) - 16872
• WRITE-IN - 291

Mecosta County Register of Deeds (4 Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Karen Hahn, REP, Big Rapids (INCUMBENT) - 16932
• WRITE-IN - 330

Mecosta County Road Commissioner (6 Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Van Johnson, REP, Rodney - 16893
• WRITE-IN - 297

Mecosta County Drain Commissioner (4 Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Karla Miller, REP, Big Rapids (INCUMBENT) - 16762
• WRITE-IN - 286

1st District County Commissioner (4 Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Jeff Jackson, REP, Big Rapids - 2860
• WRITE-IN - 41

2nd District County Commissioner (4 Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Greg Adams, REP, Evart - 2491
• WRITE-IN - 48

3rd District County Commissioner (4 Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Chris Zimmerman, REP, Canadian Lakes - 2980
• WRITE-IN - 50

4th District County Commissioner (4 Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Gary Lambrix, REP, Morley - 2424
• WRITE-IN - 39

5th District County Commissioner (4 Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Tom O’Neil, REP, Stanwood (INCUMBENT) - 2461
• WRITE-IN - 26

6th District County Commissioner (4 Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Chris Jane, REP, Big Rapids (INCUMBENT) - 1391
• WRITE-IN - 117

7th District County Commissioner (4 Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Bill Routley, REP, Big Rapids (INCUMBENT) - 1600
• Dave Hamelund, NPA, Big Rapids - 635
• WRITE-IN - 18

Village of Barryton

President (2 Year Term) – One Seat Available - 0

• James Soriano, NP, Barryton - 127
• WRITE-IN - 13

Trustee (4 Year Term) – Two Seats Available

• Kathryn Kerr, NP, Barryton - 128
• WRITE-IN - 24 (Michelle Kundrat vs LaVonne Horstman) - TBD
• WRITE-IN (PARTIAL) - 30

Village of Mecosta

President (2 Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Ann Marie Wrobbel, NP, Mecosta - 107
• WRITE-IN - 11

Trustee (4 Year Term) – Two Seats Available

• Colleen Beemer, NP, Mecosta - 87
• Kim Werenette, NP, Mecosta - 103
• WRITE-IN - 10
• WRITE-IN (PARTIAL) - 22

Village of Morley

President (2 Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Austin Korpal, NP, Morley - 127
• Henry Peterson, NP, Morley - 107
• WRITE-IN - 1

Trustee (4 Year Term) – Two Seats Available

• Chris Blondia, NP, Morley - 129
• Ashlee Feliciano, NP, Morley - 137
• Serine Peterson, NP, Morley - 113
• Steven Weed, NP, Morley (PARTIAL) - 182
• WRITE-IN - 3

Village of Stanwood

President (2 Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Cody Stilson, NP, Stanwood - 94
• WRITE-IN - 0

Trustee (4 Year Term) – Two Seats Available

• Marvin Bell, NP, Stanwood - 77
• Josh Whitman, NP, Stanwood - 66
• WRITE-IN - 0

These are the results for the Nov. 5 General Election for the President, Vice President, Congress, House of Representatives, Courts, and School Government races:

**LAST UPDATED: 8:57 A.M. 11/6/2024**

United States President & Vice President (4 Year Term) - One Pairing Selection

• Donald J. Trump, REP, Arlington (VA) & J.D. Vance, REP, Cincinnati (OH) - 71,260,693 (51.0%)
• Kamala D. Harris, DEM, Los Angeles (CA) & Tim Walz, DEM, Saint Paul (MN) - 66,333,183 (47.5%)
• Chase Oliver, LIB, Atlanta (GA) & Mike ter Maat, Kinsale (VA)
• Randall Terry, UST, Arlington (TN) & Stephen Broden, UST, Desota (TX)
• Jill Stein, GRN, Lexington (MA) & Rudolph Ware, GRN, Goleta (CA)
• Robert F. Kennedy, NLP, Katonah (NY) & Nicole Shanahan, NLP, Port. Val. (CA)
• Joseph Kishore, NPA, Berkley (MI) & Jerry White, NPA, Detroit (MI)
• Cornel West, NPA, Irvine (CA) & Melina Abdullah, NPA, Los Angeles (CA)

United States Senator - Michigan (6 Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Mike Rogers, REP, St. Joseph - 2,652, 314 (48.3%)
• Elissa Slotkin, DEM, Holly - 2,664, 595 (48.6%)
• Joseph Solis-Mullen, LIB, Marshall
• Dave Stein, UST, Essexville
• Douglas Marsh, GRN, West Branch
• Doug Dern, NLP, Highland

2nd District Congress Representative (2 Year Term) – One Seat Available

• John Moolenaar, REP, Midland - 155,654 (66.3%)
• Michael Lynch, DEM, Alma - 71,378 (30.4%)
• Ben DeJong, LIB, Lake Odessa - (1.7%)
• Scott Adams, UST, Otsego - (1.6%)

100th District State Legislature Representative (2 Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Tom Kunse, REP, Clare - 31,871 (69.4%)
• Tracy Ruell, DEM, Big Rapids - 14,071 (30.6%)

State Board of Education Member (8 Year Term) – Two Seats Available

• Tom McMillin, REP, Oakland Township - 2,225,426
• Nikki Snyder, REP, Whitemore Lake - 2,253,154
• Theodore Jones, DEM, Detroit - 2,154,551
• Adam Zenke, DEM, Ann Arbor - 2,062,291
• Scotty Boman, LIB, Detroit
• Chirsitne Schwartz, UST, Jenison 
• Ted Gerrard, UST, Grand Rapids
• Mary Anne Hering, WCP, Dearborn

Regent of University of Michigan (8 Year Term) – Two Seats Available

• Carl Meyers, REP, Dearborn - 2,379,168
• Sevag Vartanian, REP, Novi - 2,086,782
• Denise Illitch, DEM, Birmingham - 2,303,947
• Shauna Ryder Diggs, DEM, Grosse Point - 2,155,677
• Andrew Chadderdon, LIB, Westland
• Donna Oetman, UST, Kentwood

Trustee of Michigan State University (8 Year Term) – Two Seats Available

• Mike Balow, REP, Plymouth - 2,302,002
• Julie Maday, REP, Novi - 2,235,969
• Rebecca Bahar-Cook, DEM, East Lansing - 2,225,696
• Thomas Stallworth, DEM, Farmington Hills - 2,074,587
• Grant Baker, LIB, Wixom
• John Paul Sanger, UST, Litchfield
• Janet Sanger, UST, Litchfield
• John La Pietra, GRN, Marshall

Govenor of Wayne State University (8 Year Term) – Two Seats Available

• Michael Busuito, REP, Royal Oak - 2,250,025
• Sunny Reddy, REP, Bloomfield Hills - 2,179,303
• Rasha Demashkieh, DEM, Fort Gratiot - 2,097,333
• Mark Gaffney, DEM, Detroit - 2,109,560
• Farid Ishac, LIB, Waterford 
• William Mohr II, UST, Kent City
• Sami Makhoul, GRN, Clinton Township
• Suzanne Roehig, WCP, Detroit
• Kathleen Oakford, NLP, Farmington Hills

Justice Supreme Court (8 Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Andrew Fink, NP, Osseo - 1,461,795
• Kimberly Ann Thomas, NP, Ann Arbor - 2,276,223

Justice Supreme Court (8 Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Kyra Harris Bolden, NP (Partial Term Ending 1/1/29) - 2,295,731
• Patrick William O'Grady, NP (Partial Term Ending 1/1/29) - 1,447,386

4th District Court of Appeals Judge (6 Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Stephen Borrello, NP - 0
• Allie Greenleaf Maldonado, NP (Partial Term Ending 1/1/27) - 0

49th Circuit Court Judge (6 Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Amy Clapp, NP - 0

4th District Court Judge (6 Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Tyler Thompson, NP - 0

These are the results for the Nov. 5 General Election for local school board races within Mecosta and Osceola County:

LAST UPDATED: 8:34 A.M. 11/6/2024

Big Rapids Public Schools

School Board Member (6 Year Term) – Two + One Seats Available

• Michelle Rasmussen, NP, Big Rapids - 4299
• Christopher Vennix, NP, Big Rapids - 3252
• WRITE-IN - 101
• David Murray, NP, Big Rapids (Partial Term to 12/31/28) - 4619
• WRITE-IN (PARTIAL) - 86

Cadillac Public Schools

School Board Member (6 Year Term) – Two Seats Available

• Candace Kuhn, NP, Cadillac - 18
• Scott Koenig, NP, Cadillac - 13

Chippewa Hills School District

School Board Member (4 Year Term) – Three Seats Available

• Brenda Donley, NP, Weidman - 3985 + 52 = 4037
• Julia Ezell, NP, Mecosta - 3463 + 36 = 3499
• Brain Simon, NP, Weidman - 3805 + 43 = 3848
• WRITE-IN - 118 + 0 = 118

Evart Public Schools

School Board Member (6 Year Term) – Two Seats Available

• Jamie Huliberger, NP, Evart - 108 + 1317 = 1425
• Patrick Tiedt, NP, Sears - 80 + 1149 = 1229
• Kendall Wirth, NP, Evart - 64 + 1311 = 1375
• Brandon Beard, NP, Evart - 44 + 844 = 888
• WRITE-IN - 2 + 23 = 25

Lakeview Community Schools

School Board Member (6 Year Term) – Two Seats Available

• Jessica Rader, NP, Lakeview - 357
• Melissa Stevens, NP, Coral - 353
• Tiffany Padden, NP, Lakeview (Partial Term to 12/31/26) - 441
• Edward Jonaitis, NP, Lakeview (Partial Term to 12/31/28) - 417

Marion Public Schools

School Board Member (6 Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Terry Kischnick, NP, Marion - 1210

School Board Member (4 Year Term) – Four Seats Available

• Angela Ahrens, NP, Marion - 816
• Ryan Hoffman, NP, Marion - 825
• Magge Keller, NP, Marion - 816
• Ryan Raymond, NP, Marion - 56

School Board Member (2 Year Term) – One Seat Available

• WRITE-IN - 228 - TBD

McBain Rural Agricultural Schools

School Board Member (6 Year Term) – Two Seats Available

• Dennis Heuker, NP, McBain - 228
• Kenneth, Stahl, Np, McBain - 198

Montabella Community Schools

School Board Member (6 Year Term) – Three Seats Available

• Eylie Foster, NP, Blanchard - 132
• Jeramee Gilman, NP, Blanchard - 99
• Sherri Miel, NP, Edmore - 77
• Anna Silverthorn, NP, Six Lakes - 40
• Steve Sweet, NP, Edmore - 81
• WRITE-IN (PARTIAL) - 34 (Scott Parks vs Andrew Gilman vs Sydnee Dickinson)

Morley Stanwood Community Schools

School Board Member (4 Year Term) – Two Seats Available

• Brent Beemer, NP, Morley - 2358
• Edward Frisbee, NP, Morley - 1896
• Dennis Smith, NP, Morley - 1647
• WRITE-IN - 63

Pine River Area Community Schools

School Board Member (6 Year Term) – Two Seats Available

• Wayne Tessman Jr. NP, LeRoy - 1178
• Wendy Ragatzki, NP, Reed City - 653
• Katy Draper, NP, LeRoy - 1680
• Susan Stoll, NP, Tustin - 789
• WRITE-IN - 21

Reed City Public Schools

School Board Member (4 Year Term) – Four Seats Available

• Nate Vanderhoof, NP, Reed City - 491 + 1551 = 2050
• Nicole Quinn, NP, Chase - 491 + 1468 = 1959
• Sherry Franklin, NP, Reed City - 478 + 1388 = 1866
• Spencer Mund, NP, Reed City - 501 + 1557 = 2058
• WRITE-IN - 17 + 68 = 85

These are the results for the Nov. 5 General Election for the Northwest sector of Osceola County. This sector includes:

• Burdell Township
• LeRoy Township
• Rose Lake Township
• Sherman Township

LAST UPDATED: 8:30 A.M. 11/6/2024

BURDELL TOWNSHIP

Supervisor (Four Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Dean Molnar, REP, Tustin - 660
• WRITE-IN - 6

Clerk (Four Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Richard Dunlap, REP, Tustin (INCUMBENT) - 656
• WRITE-IN - 8

Treasurer (Four Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Mary Holmes, REP, Tustin (INCUMBENT) - 678
• WRITE-IN - 5

Trustee (Four Year Term) – Two Seats Available

• Ted Mattson, REP, Tustin - 630
• Donna Molnar, REP, Tustin - 611
• WRITE-IN - 9

LEROY TOWNSHIP

Supervisor (Four Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Anja Wing, REP, Tustin (INCUMBENT) - 602
• WRITE-IN - 5

Clerk (Four Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Stacie Crozier Dvonch, REP, LeRoy (INCUMBENT) - 620
• WRITE-IN - 2

Treasurer (Four Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Lori Leudeman, REP, LeRoy (INCUMBENT) - 622

Trustee (Four Year Term) – Two Seats Available

• Dan Cool, REP, LeRoy - 567
• Dale Ruppert, REP, LeRoy (INCUMBENT) - 574
• WRITE-IN - 3

ROSE LAKE TOWNSHIP

Township Supervisor (4 Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Morris Langworthy Jr., REP, LeRoy - 698
• WRITE-IN - 8

Township Clerk (4 Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Vicky Schaefer, REP, LeRoy (INCUMBENT) - 708
• WRITE-IN - 5

Township Treasurer (4 Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Patricia Gregory, REP, LeRoy (INCUMBENT) - 708
• WRITE-IN - 6

Township Trustee (4 Year Term) – Two Seats Available

• Karrie Maes, REP, LeRoy - 641
• Duey Proctor, REP, LeRoy - 657
• WRITE-IN - 10

SHERMAN TOWNSHIP

• Tustin Area Fire District Millage Proposal
  • Shall the expired previously voted increase in the tax limitation imposed under Article IX, Section 6 of the Michigan Constitution in Sherman Township of 2 mills ($2 per $1,000 of taxable value), be renewed at 2 mills ($2 per $1,000 of taxable value) and levied for four years, 2025 through 2028 inclusive, for continued participation in the Tustin Area Fire District, which 2 mills renewal will raise an estimated $82,800 in the first year the millage is levied, which will be disbursed in total to the Tustin Area Fire District
    • YES - 384
    • NO - 156

Supervisor (4 Year Term) – One Seat Available

• David Eggle, REP, Tustin (INCUMBENT) - 551
• WRITE-IN - 2

Clerk (4 Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Bethany Bolduc, REP, Tustin (INCUMBENT) - 547
• WRITE-IN - 2

Treasurer (4 Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Sharon Black, REP, Tustin (INCUMBENT) - 556
• WRITE-IN - 2

Trustee (4 Year Term) – Two Seats Available

• Keith Calkins, REP, Tustin - 482
• H. John Iler, DEM, Tustin - 142
• David Johns, REP, LeRoy (INCUMBENT) - 491
• WRITE-IN - 3

These are the results for the Nov. 5 General Election for the Northeast sector of Osceola County. This sector includes:

• Hartwick Township
• Highland Township
• Marion Township
• Middle Branch Township

LAST UPDATED: 8:31 A.M. 11/6/2024

HARTWICK TOWNSHIP

Supervisor (Four Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Randal VanBuren, DEM, Evart (INCUMBENT) - 13
• WRITE-IN - 2

Clerk (Four Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Shelley Muczynski, REP, Evart (INCUMBENT) - 20
• WRITE-IN - 0

Treasurer (Four Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Michael Ritzer, REP, Evart - 20
• WRITE-IN - 0

Trustee (Four Year Term) – Two Seats Available

• Jeffrey Neuman, REP, Evart (INCUMBENT) - 20
• Lawrence Reinardy, REP, Evart - 19
• WRITE-IN - 0

HIGHLAND TOWNSHIP

Supervisor (Four Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Derek Wing, REP, Tustin (INCUMBENT) - 526
• WRITE-IN - 2

Clerk (Four Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Larissa Avery, REP, Marion (INCUMBENT) - 362
• WRITE-IN - 5

Treasurer (Four Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Tricia Wing, NPA, Hersey - 362
• WRITE-IN - 5

Trustee (Four Year Term) – Two Seats Available

• Jed Avery, REP, Marion - 515
• WRITE-IN - 43

MARION TOWNSHIP

Supervisor (Four Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Doug Bontekoe, REP, Marion (INCUMBENT) - 718
• WRITE-IN - 8

Clerk (Four Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Connie Zuiderveen, REP, Marion (INCUMBENT) - 736
• WRITE-IN - 6

Treasurer (Four Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Joyce Mayle, REP, Marion (INCUMBENT) - 733
• WRITE-IN - 7

Trustee (Four Year Term) – Two Seats Available

• Rose Ballew, REP, Marion (INCUMBENT) - 672
• Shannon Carmody, REP, Marion (INCUMBENT) - 660
• WRITE-IN - 8

MIDDLE BRANCH TOWNSHIP

Supervisor (Four Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Glenn Wilson Jr., REP, Marion (INCUMBENT) - 442
• WRITE-IN - 11

Clerk (Four Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Richielene Beebe, REP, Marion - 446
• WRITE-IN - 9

Treasurer (Four Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Patricia Mitchell, REP, Marion (INCUMBENT) - 443
• WRITE-IN - 9

Trustee (Four Year Term) – Two Seats Available

• Peggy Ann Hoard, REP, Marion (INCUMBENT - CLERK) - 421
• Bruce Tower, REP, Marion (INCUMBENT) - 418
• WRITE-IN - 8

These are the results for the Nov. 5 General Election for the Southwest sector of Osceola County. This sector includes:

• Cedar Township
• Hersey Township
• Lincoln Township
• Richmond Township

LAST UPDATED: 8:33 A.M. 11/5/2024

CEDAR TOWNSHIP

Supervisor (Four Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Cynthia Gadbois, REP, Evart - 274
• WRITE-IN - 5

Clerk (Four Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Mary Clark, REP Reed City (INCUMBENT) - 271
• WRITE-IN - 4

Treasurer (Four Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Heather Battle, REP, Reed City (INCUMBENT) - 270
• WRITE-IN - 5

Trustee (Four Year Term) – Two Seats Available

• Kimberly Cool, REP, LeRoy - 276
• Edward Lundborg, REP, Reed City - 249
• WRITE-IN - 4

HERSEY TOWNSHIP

Supervisor (Four Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Jason Daday, DEM, Hersey (INCUMBENT - TRUSTEE) - 571
• WRITE-IN - 65

Clerk (Four Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Jennifer Verdi-Steig, REP, Hersey - 689
• Susan Martinez, NPA, Hersey - 397
• WRITE-IN - 4

Treasurer (Four Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Mikhayla Black, REP, Hersey - 950
• WRITE-IN - 11

Trustee (Four Year Term) – Two Seats Available

• Diane Leichty, REP, Hersey (INCUMBENT) - 865
• Rene Steig, NPA, Hersey - 388
• WRITE-IN - 11

LINCOLN TOWNSHIP

Supervisor (Fourt Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Mark Brock, REP, Reed City (INCUMBENT) - 725
• WRITE-IN - 11

Clerk (Four Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Sherry Blackrick, REP, LeRoy (INCUMBENT) - 742
• WRITE-IN - 8

Treasurer (Four Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Martha Modene, REP, Reed City (INCUMBENT) - 747
• WRITE-IN - 8

Trustee (Four Year Term) – Two Seats Available

• Rachel Killingbeck, REP, Reed City - 680
• Kathy Yost, REP, Reed City - 688
• WRITE-IN - 14

RICHMOND TOWNSHIP

Supervisor (Four Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Maynard Bluhm, REP, Hersey (INCUMBENT) - 279
• WRITE-IN - 3

Clerk (Four Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Linda Steig, REP, Reed City (INCUMBENT) - 288
• WRITE-IN - 2

Treasurer (Four Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Carrolin Ruppert, REP, Reed City (INCUMBENT) - 283
• WRITE-IN - 3

Trustee (Four Year Term) – Two Seats Available

• Edward Galloup, REP, Reed City (INCUMBENT) - 255
• John Woods, REP, Reed City (INCUMBENT) - 261
• WRITE-IN - 4

These are the results for the Nov. 5 General Election for the Southeast sector of Osceola County. This sector includes:

• Evart Township
• Orient Township
• Osceola Township
• Sylvan Township

LAST UPDATED: 8:33 A.M. 11/6/2024

EVART TOWNSHIP

Supervisor (Four Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Douglas Derscheid, REP, Evart (INCUMBENT) - 654
• WRITE-IN - 6

Clerk (Four Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Denise Custer, DEM, Hersey (INCUMBENT) - 465
• WRITE-IN - 33

Treasurer (Four Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Martha Hartman, REP, Evart (INCUMBENT) - 662
• WRITE-IN - 8

Trustee (Four Year Term) – Two Seats Available

• Chad Booher, REP, Evart - 627
• Stephen Campbell, REP, Evart (INCUMBENT) - 595
• WRITE-IN - 9

ORIENT TOWNSHIP

Supervisor (Four Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Matthew Tiedt, REP, Sears (INCUMBENT) - 359
• WRITE-IN - 3

Clerk (Four Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Mark Sochocki, REP, Sears (INCUMBENT) - 359
• WRITE-IN - 3

Treasurer (Four Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Cindy Sue Morgan, REP, Sears (INCUMBENT) - 366
• WRITE-IN - 3

Trustee (Four Year Term) – Two Seats Available

• Gary Earnest, REP, Sears (INCUMBENT) - 329
• Ryan Keathley, REP, Sears (INCUMBENT) - 345
• WRITE-IN - 1

OSCEOLA TOWNSHIP

Supervisor (Four Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Timothy Ladd, REP, Evart (INCUMBENT) - 383
• Andy Duffy, NPA, Evart - 161
• WRITE-IN - 2

Clerk (Four Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Jennifer Rounds, REP, Evart (INCUMBENT) - 495
• WRITE-IN - 6

Treasurer (Four Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Martin Nieman, REP, Evart (INCUMBENT) - 497
• WRITE-IN - 6

Trustee (Four Year Term) – Two Seats Available

• Sherri Bancroft, REP, Evart - 477
• Connie Holmes, REP, Evart (INCUMBENT) - 456
• WRITE-IN - 6

SYLVAN TOWNSHIP

Supervisor (Four Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Angela Moore, REP, Sears (INCUMBENT) - 404
• WRITE-IN - 8

Clerk (Four Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Terry Pritchard, REP, Evart (INCUMBENT) - 413
• WRITE-IN - 7

Treasurer (Four Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Angela Reagan, REP, Sears (INCUMBENT) - 404
• WRITE-IN - 7

Trustee (Four Year Term) – Two Seats Available

• Jeffrey Reagan, REP, Sears (INCUMBENT) - 357
• Sheila Robinson, REP, Evart (INCUMBENT) - 376
• WRITE-IN - 7

These are the results for the Nov. 5 General Election for the Northeast sector of Mecosta County. This sector includes:

• Chippewa Township
• Fork Township
• Martiny Township
• Sheridan Township

LAST UPDATED: 12:34 A.M. 11/6/2024

CHIPPEWA TOWNSHIP

Supervisor (Four Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Shirley Hazen, REP, Rodney - 600
• WRITE-IN - 3

Clerk (Four Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Kristin Lytle, REP, Rodney (INCUMBENT) - 610
• WRITE-IN - 7

Treasurer (Four Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Julie Austin, REP, Chippewa Lake (INCUMBENT) - 615
• WRITE-IN - 6

Trustee (Four Year Term) – Two Seats Available

• Debbie Carmichael-Zielinski, REP, Evart (INCUMBENT) - 526
• Annette Walters, REP, Evart (INCUMBENT) - 540
• Nicole Arnon, NPA, Chippewa Lake - 107
• WRITE-IN - 4

FORK TOWNSHIP

• Barryton Public Library/Chippewa Branch Operating Millage Renewal Proposal
  • Shall the Barryton Public Library/Chippewa Branch Library district renew its Current millage (.9581 mill which expires December 31, 2024) at the originally approved rate of 1 mill ($1.00 per $1,000 of taxable value) on taxable property within the limits of the Library District for 4 years (2025-2028 inclusive) for library operations and all purposes authorized by law? If approved the millage is estimated to generate $141,000 in its first year. Millage accounts for 80% of the library's funding.
    • YES - 1180
    • NO - 373

Supervisor (Four Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Lori Helmer, REP, Barryton (INCUMBENT) - 744
• WRITE-IN - 10

Clerk (Four Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Roberta Hazen, REP, Barryton (INCUMBENT) - 640
• Angelina Braley, NPA, Sears - 162
• WRITE-IN - 5

Treasurer (Four Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Doug Brand, REP, Barryton (INCUMBENT) - 725
• WRITE-IN - 14

Trustee (Four Year Term) – Two Seats Available

• Dave Dowell, REP, Barryton - 623
• Mitchell Mackersie, REP, Barryton (INCUMBENT) - 729
• WRITE-IN - 11

MARTINY TOWNSHIP

Supervisor (4 Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Barbara Hampel, REP, Rodney (INCUMBENT) - 725
• WRITE-IN - 10

Clerk (4 Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Connie Grant, REP, Rodney (INCUMBENT) - 732
• WRITE-IN - 10

Treasurer (4 Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Lois Schmidt, REP, Morley (INCUMBENT) - 728
• WRITE-IN - 7

Trustee (4 Year Term) – Two Seats Available

• Dale Dosenberry, REP, Rodney - 640
• Cindy Lattimore, REP, Rodney (INCUMBENT) - 711
• WRITE-IN - 16

SHERIDAN TOWNSHIP

Supervisor (Four Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Vern Young, REP, Remus (INCUMBENT) - 524
• WRITE-IN - 9

Clerk (Four Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Christina Martin, REP, Remus (INCUMBENT) - 524
• WRITE-IN - 9

Treasurer (Four Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Rachel Borders, REP, Remus (INCUMBENT) - 519
• WRITE-IN - 7

Trustee (Four Year Term) – Two Seats Available

• Harry Hardenburgh, REP, Remus (INCUMBENT) - 480
• Johanna Hopkins, REP, Remus (INCUMBENT) - 496
• WRITE-IN - 8

These are the results for Nov. 5 General Election for the Northwest sector of Mecosta County. This sector includes:

• Big Rapids Charter Township
• Colfax Township
• Grant Township
• Green Charter Township

LAST UPDATED: 12:28 A.M. 11/6/2024

BIG RAPIDS CHARTER TOWNSHIP

Supervisor (Four Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Bruce Borkovich, REP, Big Rapids - 1309
• Tim Hahn, DEM, Big Rapids - 897
• WRITE-IN - 8

Clerk (Four Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Linda Combs, DEM, Big Rapids (WITHDREW) - 680
• Hannah Saez, REP, Big Rapids (INCUMBENT) - 1370
• Karen GreenBay, DEM, Big Rapids (WRITE-IN) - 122

Treasurer (Four Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Dena Marek, REP, Big Rapids - 1616
• WRITE-IN - 34

Trustee (Four Year Term) – Four Seats Available

• Amy Bowling, DEM, Big Rapids - 829
• Joe Bechaz, REP, Big Rapids - 1318
• Jerald Everett, REP, Big Rapids (INCUMBENT) - 1212
• Krysti Kidder, DEM, Big Rapids - 874
• Chris Teceno, REP, Big Rapids - 1291
• Ron Welch, REP, Big Rapids - 1237
• Steve Sims, NPA, Big Rapids - 376
• WRITE-IN - 20

COLFAX TOWNSHIP

Supervisor (Four Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Nick Kaye, REP, Rodney (INCUMBENT) - 1030
• WRITE-IN - 13

Clerk (Four Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Susan Olson, REP, Big Rapids (INCUMBENT) - 1018
• WRITE-IN - 17

Treasurer (Four Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Julie Johansen, DEM, Rodney (INCUMBENT) - 1018
• WRITE-IN - 11

Trustee (Four Year Term) – Two Seats Available

• Bill Burmeister, DEM, Big Rapids (INCUMBENT) - 519
• Karen Morningstar, REP, Big Rapids (INCUMBENT) - 945
• WRITE-IN - 14

GRANT TOWNSHIP

Supervisor (4 Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Cheryl Aris, REP, Big Rapids (INCUMBENT - CLERK) - 400
• WRITE-IN - 4

Clerk (4 Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Lisa Cranney, REP, Big Rapids (INCUMBENT) - 395
• WRITE-IN - 4

Treasurer (4 Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Charles Smalley (WRITE-IN) - 42

Trustee (4 Year Term) – Two Seats Available

• Nicholas Bentley, REP, Big Rapids (INCUMBENT) - 372
• Travis Horstman, REP, Big Rapids - 344
• WRITE-IN - 7

GREEN CHARTER TOWNSHIP

Supervisor (Four Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Jason Kruse, REP, Big Rapids (INCUMBENT) - 1285
• Joseph Percy, DEM, Big Rapids - 686
• WRITE-IN - 5

Clerk (Four Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Corri Riebow, REP, Paris (INCUMBENT) - 1466
• WRITE-IN - 43

Treasurer (Four Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Jilliane Walsh, REP, Paris - 1456
• WRITE-IN - 22

Trustee (Four Year Term) – Four Seats Available

• Katy Battle, DEM, Hersey - 722
• Kelly Cushway, REP, Big Rapids (INCUMBENT) - 1281
• Scott MacFarlane, REP, Paris - 1229
• Ross Meads, REP, Big Rapids - 1234
• Jeffrey Thorne, REP, Big Rapids (INCUMBENT) - 1236
• WRITE-IN - 471

These are the official results for Nov. 5 General Election for the Southwest sector of Mecosta County. This sector includes:

• Aetna Township
• Austin Township
• Deerfield Township
• Mecosta Township

LAST UPDATED: 12:38 A.M. 11/6/2024

AETNA TOWNSHIP

Supervisor (Four Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Bruce Carey, REP, Morley (INCUMBENT) - 976
• WRITE-IN - 14

Clerk (Four Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Beverly McLaughlin, REP, Morley (INCUMBENT) - 989
• WRITE-IN - 9

Treasurer (Four Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Amy Hillis-Ouellette, REP, Morley - 980
• WRITE-IN - 10

Trustee (Four Year Term) – Two Seats Available

• Barbie Cornell, REP, Morley (INCUMBENT) - 926
• Larry Platt, REP, Morley - 871
• WRITE-IN - 26

AUSTIN TOWNSHIP

Supervisor (Four Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Kenneth Vredenburg, REP, Stanwood (INCUMBENT) - 759
• WRITE-IN - 12

Clerk (Four Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Billie Jean Barnes, REP, Stanwood (INCUMBENT) - 754
• WRITE-IN - 10

Treasurer (Four Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Carolyn Towsley, DEM, Stanwood (INCUMBENT) - 443
• WRITE-IN - 51

Trustee (Four Year Term) – Two Seats Available

• John Brockway, REP, Morley (INCUMBENT) - 728
• Charles Sheldon II, REP, Rodney - 648
• WRITE-IN - 14

DEERFIELD TOWNSHIP

Supervisor (Four Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Phil Stier, REP, Morley (INCUMBENT) - 724
• WRITE-IN - 13

Clerk (Four Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Michelle Lewis, REP, Morley (INCUMBENT) - 725
• WRITE-IN - 10

Treasurer (Four Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Sheila Lingle, REP, Morley (INCUMBENT) - 743
• WRITE-IN - 11

Trustee (Four Year Term) – Two Seats Available

• Brian Carey II, REP, Morley (INCUMBENT) - 687
• Jamey Nelson, REP, Morley - 662
• WRITE-IN - 17

MECOSTA TOWNSHIP

Supervisor (Four Year Term) – One Seat Available

• John Boyd, REP, Stanwood - 1255
• WRITE-IN - 17

Clerk (Four Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Stephanie McNeal, REP, Stanwood (INCUMBENT) - 1270
• WRITE-IN - 7

Treasurer (Four Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Mary Quinlan, REP, Big Rapids (INCUMBENT) - 1291
• WRITE-IN - 9

Trustee (Four Year Term) – Two Seats Available

• James Cain, REP, Big Rapids (INCUMBENT) - 1198
• Tyler Huntey, REP, Stanwood (INCUMBENT) - 1171
• WRITE-IN - 13

• Hinton Township
• Millbrook Township
• Morton Township
• Wheatland Township

LAST UPDATED: 12:44 A.M. 11/6/2024

HINTON TOWNSHIP

• Proposed Renewal of Fire-Rescue Department Millage

  • Shall the previously voted increase in the tax limitation imposed under Article IX, Section 6 of the Michigan Constitution on general ad valorem taxes within the Township of Hinton, Mecosta County, be renewed for 1 mill ($1.00 on each $1,000 taxable valuation) for a period of four (4) years, 2024 through 2027, to provide funds for the Lakeview Fire Department for equipment and operations provided to Hinton Township by and through the Lakeview Fire Department, and shall the township levy such renewal in millage for said proposed, thereby raising the first year estimated revenue $41,961.00 to pay Hinton Township's share of the Lakeview District Fire Department operating budget.

    • YES - 396

    • NO - 138

Supervisor (Four Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Wayne Sutherland, REP, Morley (INCUMBENT - TRUSTEE) - 481
• WRITE-IN - 4

Clerk (Four Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Ruth Peterson, REP, Lakeview (INCUMBENT) - 476
• WRITE-IN - 5

Treasurer (Four Year Term) – One Seat Available

• James Helms, REP, Mecosta (INCUMBENT) - 477
• WRITE-IN - 5

Trustee (Four Year Term) – Two Seats Available

• Brian Taylor, REP, Lakeview - 464
• Carl Thompson, REP, Mecosta (INCUMBENT - SUPERVISOR) - 429
• WRITE-IN - 4

MILLBROOK TOWNSHIP

Supervisor (Four Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Bruce Eldred, REP, Blanchard (INCUMBENT) - 487
• WRITE-IN - 3

Clerk (Four Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Kaye Wisner, REP, Blanchard (INCUMBENT) - 482
• WRITE-IN - 2

Treasurer (Four Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Tina Murray, REP, Blanchard - 478
• WRITE-IN - 2

Trustee (Four Year Term) – Two Seats Available

• Lenny Sorsen, DEM, Remus (INCUMBENT) - 191
• Randy Spayd, REP, Blanchard (INCUMBENT) - 459
• WRITE-IN - 3

MORTON TOWNSHIP

Supervisor (4 Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Mark Klumpp, REP, Stanwood (INCUMBENT) - 2460
• WRITE-IN - 51

Clerk (4 Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Camie Courtright, REP, Stanwood (INCUMBENT) - 2494
• WRITE-IN - 28

Treasurer (4 Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Tracy Snyder, REP, Stanwood - 2473
• WRITE-IN - 25

Trustee (4 Year Term) – Two Seats Available

• Yulanda Bellingar, REP, Mecosta (INCUMBENT) - 2415
• Jeff Ratledge, REP, Canadian Lakes (INCUMBENT) - 2364
• WRITE-IN - 42

Library Board Member (4 Year Term) – Six Seats Available

• Dena Durante, NP, Mecosta - 1571
• Ruth Jackson, NP, Stanwood - 1569
• Dorothy Metcalf, NP, Mecosta - 1652
• Sandra Roberts, NP, Mecosta - 1581
• Sharon Swathwood, NP, Stanwood - 1563
• Anita Farrar (WRITE-IN) - 81

WHEATLAND TOWNSHIP

• Wheatland Township Public Library Millage-Renewal of Previously Authorized Millage

  • Shall the tax rate limitation for Wheatland Township be increased, and a tax levied on all taxable property, in the amount of eight-tenths (0.8) mill ($0.80 per $1,000 of taxable value) for the years 2025- 2028, inclusive? This proposed millage would renew a previously authorized millage for Township Public Library purposes set to expire December 31, 2024, in the amount of .8 mill. The purpose of this levy is to provide funds for operational expenses to allow the Library to strive to continue to offer its services and hours at least at a reduced capacity. It is estimated that a levy of .8 mill would provide a revenue of $39,500.00 in the first calendar year.

    • YES - 345

    • NO - 343

• Wheatland Township Public Library Millage-Renewal of Previously Authorized Millage

  • Shall the tax rate limitation for Wheatland Township be increased, and a tax levied on all taxable property, in the amount of four-tenths (0.4) mill ($0.40 per $1,000 of taxable value) for the years 2025-2028, inclusive? This proposed millage would renew a previously authorized millage for Township Public Library purposes set to expire December 31, 2024, in the amount of .4 mill. The purpose of this levy is to provide funds for operational expenses and to allow the Library to strive to continue to offer its present services and hours (in conjunction with the passing of the eight-tenths (0.8) mill library millage renewal also on the ballot). It is estimated that a levy of .4 mill would provide a revenue of $19,750.00 in the first calendar year.

    • YES - 367

    • NO - 320

Supervisor (4 Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Thomas Vansyckle, REP, Remus (INCUMBENT) - 558
• WRITE-IN - 15

Clerk (4 Year Term) – One Seat Available

• Kim Thiel, REP, Remus (INCUMBENT) - 563

Treasurer (4 Year Term) – One Seat Available

• No candidate listed.
• WRITE-IN - 222 (Julie Sellers vs Claudia Rey-Perry) - TBD

Trustee (4 Year Term) – Two Seats Available

• Lee Carte, REP, Remus (INCUMBENT) - 531
• Ethan McNeal, REP, Remus (INCUMBENT) - 534

Library Board Member (4 Year Term) – Six Seats Available

• Jeanette Aldrich, NP, Remus - 363
• Deanna Cook, NP, Remus - 313
• Elizabeth Leiter, NP, Remus - 339
• Betsyann Moskowitz, NP, Remus - 301
• Megan Stevens, NP, Remus - 329
• Mary Ann Werenette, Remus - 421

Per a press release by Ferris State Athletics, there will be alcohol sales at the final two home Bulldog football games this season.

Sales will be managed by Ferris State Dining Services and Ferris State Athletics via a wristband and legal ID system for those 21 and older. Beer and seltzer sales will begin 30 minutes before kickoff and last until the start of the fourth quarter. Alcohol must be purchased with a credit or debit card and no outside beverages can be brought into the stadium.

In correspondence with the sales period, fans will not be able to re-enter the stadium until after the fourth quarter begins if they choose to leave. All regulations are issued by the Michigan Liquor Control Commission.

Kickoff for both the Nov. 9 game against Saginaw Valley State and the Nov. 16 game against Davenport will be at 1:00 P.M.

NewsRadio WBRN will be carrying live election coverage this evening via Fox News Radio on 1460 AM and 96.5 FM starting at 6:00 PM.

The program will begin with a one-hour special featuring the hit podcasts The Bret Baier Podcast, The Untold Story with Martha MacCallum and Perino on Politics.

Following at 7:00 PM, 'Live Election Night' studio coverage will led by FOX News Radio’s Jared Halpern and Jessica Rosenthal and will feature FOX News Radio Political Analyst Josh Kraushaar, FOX News Contributors, and reporters from across the country and more.

Coverage will continue until at least 1:00 AM on Wednesday morning.

As announced this morning by multiple NFL insiders, the Detroit Lions have agreed to a trade with the Cleveland Browns for former Pro Bowl defensive end Za'Darius Smith.

Details of this trade, first reported by The Athletic, are that Detroit will recieve Smith and a 2026 seventh-round pick from Cleveland. In exchange, the Lions will be sending a 2025 fifth-round pick and a 2026 sixth-rounder to the Browns. 

Smith, who has played for the Ravens, Packers, Vikings, and Browns, has won Pro Bowl honors three times and has 65 career sacks. In nine games this season in Cleveland, Smith has five sacks and 15 tackles on a 58% snap share.

The Lions have lost defensive ends Aidan Hutchinson, John Cominsky, and Marcus Davenport for entended time due to injury this season.

Detroit will travel to Houston Sunday Night for Week 10. Kickoff is slated for 8:20 P.M. Catch all the action on WBRN via 1460 AM and 96.5 FM.

• No incidents reported.

Tuesday, October 22

• No incidents reported.

Wednesday, October 23

• No incidents reported.

Thursday, October 24

• Larceny – Officers were dispatched for a larceny complaint at a local business. The case remains open at this time. 

Friday, October 25

• Traffic Stop – Officer conducted a traffic stop. The operator of the vehicle was given an appearance date for operating a vehicle without a license and the report has been forwarded to the Prosecutor for review. 

• Traffic Stop – Officer conducted a traffic stop. The passenger was on probation and under the influence of alcohol. The passenger was arrested on the probation violation. 

Saturday, October 26

• Flee & Elude – Officer assisted the Sheriff’s Department in attempting to locate a fleeing suspect. Officers were able to identify the suspect but did not locate him.

Sunday, October 27

• Found Property – A found wallet turned over to the Evart Police Department. Officers were able to make contact with the father of the owner and the property will be held at the Police Department until claimed. 

• Breaking and Entering – Officers were dispatched for a breaking and entering in progress. The complaint was investigated and was determined to be a civil issue.
• Trespass – Officers were dispatched for a trespassing complaint. The subjects were trespassed from the property. 

Tuesday, October 29

• Criminal Sexual Conduct – Officers received a CSC complaint which is being investigated with CPS.
• Transport Prisoner – Officers transported a subject to the Osceola County Jail and lodged them on a warrant. 

Wednesday, October 30

• No incidents reported.

Thursday, October 31

• Property Damage Accident – Officer was dispatched to investigate a two-vehicle property damage accident.
• Fail to Pay – Officers received a fail to pay complaint. The party responsible returned to the business to pay.
• Suicide – Officers were dispatched to a well-being check. The subject was transported to the hospital for additional services.

Friday, November 1

• Fail to Pay – Officers were dispatched for a fail to pay. The incident remains under investigation.

Saturday, November 2

• Criminal Sexual Conduct – Officers and CPS investigated a sexual abuse allegation involving an adult and a minor.

• Runaway – Officers were dispatched for a juvenile that ran away from their residence. The juvenile was located and transported to hospital for a mental evaluation. 

Sunday, November 3

• Breaking and Entering - Officers were dispatched for a breaking and entering complaint. Subject gained access to a residence through an unlocked door. Items were stolen from the residence and the complaint remains open at this time.

Ferris State University organizers believed one day was not enough to gather students, faculty and staff to honor the first-generation students and support them along their educational journey. 

First-generation students come from families where neither of their parents completed a bachelor’s degree in the United States or students who have not been exposed to a university experience. 

Ferris State was one of the first universities in the nation to participate in the National First Generation College Student Celebration in 2018. The celebration was expanded to a week of activities the following year.

The national celebration of First-Generation College Student Day is annually on Nov. 8, selected to honor the anniversary of the signing of the Higher Education Act of 1965. 

Ferris State alumnus David McCall, an associate professor in Interdisciplinary Studies, said the 2024 First-Gen Celebration Week kicks off on Nov. 4 with a dinner that doubles as a lesson.  

“It will be a plated dinner that presents an exercise in etiquette, so students can feel comfortable in professional encounters to come as they enter their careers,” McCall said. “We are looking to provide an engaging and enjoyable learning experience for all involved that evening.” 

Activities continue Tuesday, Nov. 5, with a group pickleball event and game night in the Ferris Racquet Facility. 

“This will provide a chance to learn and play pickleball, then the eSports Arena in the Center for Virtual Learning will be the site to experience gaming on the big screen or just gather for board or card games,” he said. 

Author Alejandra Campoverdi will speak on her book, “First-Gen: A Memoir,” on Wednesday, Nov. 6, at 6:30 in the David L. Eisler Center Ballroom, 805 Campus Drive. McCall said 250 copies of the book will be provided and a book signing session follows the presentation. 

Activities on Thursday, Nov. 7, include a deliberative dialogue and trivia night in Room 240 of the Ferris Library for Information, Technology, and Education with dinner from Buffalo Wild Wings starting at 6 p.m. 

“Our focus in the dialogue considers what it means to be a First-Gen and will provide an opportunity to offer thoughts on the direction of university resources for these students,” McCall said. 

Lunch for the First-Gen community and any interested supporters will be held Friday, Nov. 8, at 12:30 p.m. in the Quad Café. McCall said he hopes for a good showing for First-Gen Day at Ferris State’s football game against Saginaw Valley State University on Saturday, Nov. 9. 

“We hope to show off our First-Gen winter hats and help the crowd understand the importance of this student group during their halftime introduction,”

McCall said. “I am thankful for the collaborative efforts that will make this a great week to identify and commend these wonderful students and supporters.” 

Anyone with a disability who needs accommodation to attend an event on the schedule should contact McCall by email at least 72 hours in advance. 

_{Photo and release courtesy of Ferris State University.}

On Thursday, Congressman John Moolenaar, along with Congressmen Tim Walberg (R-MI), Bill Huizenga (R-MI), John James (R-MI), and Jack Bergman (R-MI) called on Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson to answer questions regarding how a Chinese national voted in Michigan’s election this past Sunday.

The lawmakers wrote to Benson, “Your department failed to prevent this illegal vote from being cast and will reportedly count it in the results next week. House Republicans have raised concerns about noncitizens voting in elections and earlier this year the House of Representatives passed H.R. 8281 – the SAVE Act with a bipartisan 221-198 vote. The SAVE Act would require individuals to provide proof of citizenship when registering to vote in federal elections, and it is shameful our colleagues in the Senate refused to pass this commonsense legislation.”

The Michigan representatives concluded by asking Benson the following questions:

1. When was your office made aware that this noncitizen registered to vote and cast a ballot?
2. What documents did this person present that allowed him to register to vote? Did he show proof of citizenship? If not, why was he allowed to register to vote without showing proof of citizenship?
3. Can you confirm the media report that that this noncitizen’s ballot will be counted in the official vote count? If so, why is that the case, and what is your department doing to rectify this process so noncitizens’ votes can be withdrawn from the count if a similar situation occurs again?
4. What exactly are you and your department doing to ensure another noncitizen is not able to register to vote?
5. Now that a noncitizen has been able to register to vote and cast a ballot on your watch, will you endorse H.R. 8281 – the SAVE Act that requires individuals to provide proof of citizenship when registering to vote in federal elections? The House of Representatives passed this bill with a bipartisan 221-198 vote.
6. Can you confirm that this is the only instance that a noncitizen has registered to vote or cast a ballot in a federal election in 2024? Please provide the documentation that confirms this is the only instance or the documentation proving other noncitizens have registered and voted.
7. If a CCP-affiliated company brings Chinese nationals to Michigan, is your department going to allow them to register to vote and cast a ballot? How exactly would you prevent these noncitizens from voting? Do you believe taxpayer dollars should go to CCP-affiliated companies?
8. Do you believe non-citizens should be able to vote in elections at any level?

The full text of Moolenaar’s letter to Benson can be found here. 

On the eve of starting her senior season on the hardwood, Kadyn Blanchard couldn't be more excited to tip off the 2024-25 season.  

The Freeland native is ready to come together with a dozen of her best friends – her Bulldog teammates -- as a new season begins for the women's basketball team.

The team is ranked 15th nationally by the Women's Basketball Coaches Association Division II preseason poll, in the Conference Commissioner's Association Tipoff Classic in St. Joseph, Missouri on Saturday, Nov. 2. 

"I'm super excited," said a smiling 5-foot-10 Blanchard, a 2024-25 preseason All-Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference selection. "Our preseason has already flown by like in the blink of an eye. I love that we have a really good group of girls coming back and we still have really good experience on our team. I'm excited to see how our season goes." 

The Bulldogs graduated two standouts from last season in versatile forward Chloe Idoni and point guard Mallory McCartney, the team's floor leader. But fellow seniors joining Blanchard are West Michigan guards Kenzie Bowers, from Kent City, and DeShonna Day, of Muskegon. The team also welcomes a seasoned group of juniors joining the seniors to help lead the younger talented returners and incoming Bulldogs on the roster.

Blanchard, a former first-team all-state pick as a prep standout at Freeland, has already pledged her dedication to the team as it begins a new season.

In the 2023-24 campaign the team won the program's first NCAA Division II Midwest Region Championship, advanced to the Elite Eight, and eventually to the Final Four – finishing with a 26-6 record and ranked third in the final WBCA Division II rankings. 

As a junior, Blanchard averaged 12.9 points, 5.8 rebounds, and two assists enroute to earning first-team All-GLIAC honors. 

The hard-working Blanchard, who battled back from injury to return to form to lead Ferris State last season, is in part guided by a word that is foundational to how she approaches her last season of college basketball.

"On our team, we pick a word, and my word is 'devote,'" she said. "I want to devote my last season to Christ for everything he's done for me, my team for helping me get where I am, and all my family and coaches. I will do everything I can to be healthy and give the team everything I've got."  

The team faces a challenging schedule this season as it will face some of the nation's best teams. Blanchard is happy to face the stiff competition with a great support system – her teammates, her friends for life.

"What I love about this team is the girls, just the relationships that we have. We just love hanging out with each other on and off the court," Blanchard said. "They are going to be my best friends for life; they're the ones who will be in my wedding. This isn't the end of the road for us this season. We're going to have a lifetime together as friends." 

For now, however, there's work to be done on the basketball court for the Bulldogs, led by head coach Kurt Westendorp, whose staff welcomes McCartney, as a new assistant coach, with Scott Carlson, who returns to assist.

The Blanchards have become a Bulldog family. Dyn Blanchard’s younger brother, Gabe, is a 6-foot-5, 255-pound redshirt freshman defensive lineman for the Bulldog football team.

In the D2CCA Tipoff Classic, the Bulldogs will face Pittsburg State on Saturday, Nov. 2, at 2:30 p.m., and Central Missouri on Sunday, Nov. 3, at 2:30 p.m.

The first home game for the women's basketball team is Saturday, Nov. 16, at 7 p.m. against Great Lakes Christian.

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