Sen. Roger Hauck, R-Mt. Pleasant, issued the following statement on Friday in response to Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s long-overdue decision to finally schedule a special election for the vacant 35th Senate District:

“Let’s be clear: You’re no hero, governor," Hauck said. "You didn’t save the day — you simply did a job you should have done months ago — and did so only after your lack of action received national headlines and criticism from within your own party."

“The average time it has taken the governor to call a special election in Michigan is 17 days. It has taken over seven months for Gov. Whitmer to call this election. In that time, thousands of residents across the Great Lakes Bay Region were left without a voice in the state Senate. There has been no urgency. No explanation. Just silence."

“That’s not leadership. That’s a political calculation. The people of this district have been taxed, regulated and impacted by every decision made in Lansing — and now, as we work to finalize the upcoming fiscal year budget, these residents will continue to be without a voice on how their tax dollars are spent."

“The governor knew how quickly she could act. She’s done it before — and faster — when it benefited her party. This time, when the benefit wasn’t as clear, she waited. Let’s not pretend that finally calling the election was about principle — it was about politics from the very beginning. Her attorneys even argued in court that she didn’t have to schedule an election after a lawsuit was filed compelling her to do her job."

“Her long-overdue action today doesn’t erase the months of neglect, the voices that went unheard, or the purely political display. I’m glad the people of the 35th District will finally get their seat back. But the delay speaks volumes.”

_{Release and quotes courtesy of Sen. Roger Hauck.}

On Friday, Aug. 29, at 3:53 p.m., emergency personnel were dispatched to Perry Avenue and Waldron Way for a two-vehicle crash with injuries.

According to the investigation, a 65-year-old woman from Reed City attempted to make a left turn from Perry Avenue to 215th Avenue and failed to yield for an eastbound vehicle. She then collided head on with a 32-year-old female from Pierson.

The Reed City female, and her 18-year-old female passenger from Evart, were transported to the Big Rapids Hospital for non life-threatening injuries. The Pierson female, and her 7-year-old and 10-year-old passengers, were also transported to the Big Rapids Hospital for non life-threatening injuries. 

Deputies were assisted by Meceola Central Dispatch, Mecosta County EMS, Osceola County EMS, Big Rapids Fire, Hooked Up Towing, Currie's Towing, and Ferris State University Police.

A Frost Advisory has been issued for Clare and Osceola counties until 8 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 30. 

Temperatures could drop to 34 degrees, leading to frost formation from 2 a.m. to 8 a.m. Saturday. Frost may damage sensitive outdoor vegetation and kill unprotected plants.

Stay updated with weather alerts from Big Rapids Daily News on Facebook, Instagram, and X. Tune in to BigRapids Media radio stations—Big Country 100.9 FM, Rewind 99.1 FM, Y-102 102.3 FM, or NewsRadio WBRN (1460 AM, 96.5 FM, 107.7 FM)—for hourly WeatherEye forecasts.

On Thursday, August 28, at approximately 7:21 p.m., emergency personnel was dispatched to the intersection of 205^th Avenue and Arthur Road for a single-vehicle crash.

According to an investigation by the Mecosta County Sheriff's Office, it was found that a 82-year-old man from Big Rapids was traveling westbound on Arthur Road and failed to turn. His vehicle continued to go straight and struck a tree. The driver was transported by EMS to Corewell Health Hospital in Big Rapids for non-life threatening injuries. Alcohol is believe to be the factor in the crash.

Deputies were assisted by Big Rapids Fire, Mecosta County EMS, Meceola Central Dispatch, and Hilltop Towing.

Beginning a new academic year focused on student success is a given, but Ferris State University’s new Bulldog-to-Bulldog program has an added twist with current students and new students supporting each other. 

A primary Bulldog-to-Bulldog goal is building a stronger Ferris State community as current student share their experiences and wisdom with new students. 

"Whether students are curious about campus life, ready to make new friends, or just excited for free fun, the Bulldog-to-Bulldog program is great for that,” said Kavaris Sims, associate director of Student Life. “We can’t wait to welcome our students home.” 

The kickoff event is set for Saturday, Aug. 23, from 2 to 4 p.m. in Williams Auditorium. In addition to providing an opportunity for new students to engage with current ones, the event will also feature music, entertainment and prizes as Ferris State begins the 2025-26 academic year. 

This effort is a collaboration between the Office of Student Life and the Student Government Association. 

“Student Life and Student Government are rolling out the crimson and gold carpet for students to join us for Bulldog-to-Bulldog, the ultimate welcome event for first-year students,” Sims said. “Students will vibe to great music, enjoy live entertainment, win awesome prizes, and pick up insider tips from current Bulldogs who know all the tricks to making the most of your time at Ferris State.” 

A feature of Bulldog-to-Bulldog will be a panel of student leaders sharing their first-year experiences, offering advice and insights on campus culture, academics, and what it means to be a Bulldog, to new students. 

The forum, hosted by the Student Government president, will include guided questions to help spark meaningful conversation among peers. 

Bulldog-to-Bulldog, is a prelude to a formal welcome event hosted by Ferris State President Bill Pink at Top Taggart Field, 1215 Campus Drive, on Sunday, Aug. 24, from 5 to 7 p.m. This special welcome will include free food, T-shirts, games, music and more.

Students begin moving into on-campus residential facilities on Thursday, Aug. 21, and the first day of classes for the 2025-26 academic year is Monday, Aug. 25.

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

The Law Enforcement Torch Run is the largest grassroots fundraising effort for Special Olympics International. Its two primary goals are to raise funds and create awareness for athletes participating in Special Olympics Michigan. Special Olympics Michigan provides year-round sports training and athletic competition for children and adults with intellectual disabilities. Donations from Michigan residents and businesses fund the program.

For information on participating in the local Torch Run, contact Officer Heather Butts at 231-527-0005. To donate to the Big Rapids DPS Team, visit https://www.classy.org/team/764174. For more information about Special Olympics Michigan and how to get involved, visit https://www.somi.org/.

_{Release and photo courtesy of Big Rapids Department of Public Safety.}

Monday, August 18

• No incidents reported.

Tuesday, August 19

• Officers assisted the Department of Corrections during their transportation of an inmate. Officers stood by while they rendered services to an inmate.

Wednesday, August 20

• Officers assisted the Osceola County Sheriff's Department with a disorderly subject.
• Officers were dispatched to investigate an animal complaint.

Thursday, August 21

• No incidents reported.

Friday, August 22

• An officer was dispatched for a found property complaint. The items were transported to the Police Department, where they will be held for the owner.
• Officers were dispatched for a domestic assault complaint. A report was generated and sent to the prosecutor for review.
• An officer went to a residence to collect property for safekeeping.  
• An officer was requested to assist another agency for a special assignment.  
• Officers were dispatched to an area check involving electric scooters. Officers found the scooters and addressed the complaint and violations with the operators and their parents.  

Saturday, August 23

• An officer was dispatched for a fail to pay. The complaint remains open pending contact with the suspect.  

Sunday, August 24

• No incidents reported.

Local police blotters are presented by:

Monday, August 11

• Officers were called for a complaint of a tent on public property. Upon arrival, the tent and some items were located, but no one was around. The tent and items were gathered, taken to the Police Department, and claimed later that day. The owner was issued a verbal warning about camping outside the city campground.
• An officer was called for a criminal sexual conduct complaint. Interviews for the investigation revealed there was no crime involved.
• While investigating another matter, it was discovered that an individual had an outstanding warrant. The 40-year-old male was taken into custody and transported to the Osceola County Jail to await transfer to Lapeer County.
• An officer was called for a civil standby. The property was gathered and both individuals departed peacefully.

Tuesday, August 12

• An officer was dispatched to assist Osceola County Sheriff Department on a traffic stop. The subject was placed under arrest by Osceola County deputies.

Wednesday, August 13

• An officer issued a verbal warning for loud music.
• An officer was called for a theft complaint. The individual was advised that this is a civil matter only.

Thursday, August 14

• An officer was called for a suspicious person sitting on a bench in front of a business. Upon investigation, it was determined and verified that the individual was waiting for a ride home only.

Friday, August 15

• Officers patrolled the Crossroads Festival to ensure everyone had a good and safe experience.

Saturday, August 16

• An officer was dispatched for a well being check. The person was located and found to be okay.
• Officers patrolled the Crossroads Festival to ensure everyone had a good and safe experience.
• An officer was dispatched for a possible domestic dispute. It was determined that this was an argument only. A report has been sent to the juvenile probation department for review.
• An officer received a complaint for a loud music complaint. It was determined that the music was from the Crossroads Festival.

Sunday, August 17

• While on patrol, an officer located an unlocked door on a public building. The building was checked and secured by the officer.
• An officer talked to a homeowner regarding furniture at the curbside in violation of city ordinance. Per the owner, someone was coming to pick the items up anytime. During the conversation, the individual came and took away the furniture.
• An officer was called for theft or possibly misplaced property. This case is under investigation.
• An officer was called for a well being check. Upon arrival, the caller hadn’t seen the person for more than a week. When the officer got to the door of the individual, a note was on the door stating that the person is in the hospital.
• An officer was dispatched to a domestic assault. The 40-year-old male was placed under arrest for assault and transported to Oceola County Jail. The officer was assisted on scene by Osceola County Sheriff's deputies.

Monday, August 18

• An officer was dispatched to a fight in a local parking area. Interviews with all individuals revealed that this was an argument only, and that no crime was committed.
• An officer was called for the theft of alcohol by juveniles and trespassing at a local business. The individuals were ticketed, and a report has been sent to probate for review.
• An officer was dispatched for a well being check. The individual was located and agreed to go to the hospital for evaluation. After evaluation and release, the individual was returned home.

Tuesday, August 19

• An officer was dispatched for a well being check. Upon arrival, there was no answer at the door. Contact by phone revealed they were fine and there was no need for concern.
• An officer was called for a child playing in the roadway who was unattended. Upon arrival, no child was in the roadway. The area was checked, but the child likely went back into their residence.
• An officer was called for a well being check. After investigating, it was determined that this was a misunderstanding between individuals, and all were safe and secure.

Wednesday, August 20

• An officer was called for a vehicle parked partially in two handicapped parking spots at a medical facility. It was determined the vehicle owner was awaiting urgent medical care. Staff assisted the owner in moving the car into one parking space.

Thursday, August 21

• An officer was dispatched for a reckless driving complaint. An Investigation produced camera footage and a witness. The area was patrolled, but the vehicle was unable to be located at this time. This case is open.

Friday, August 22

• An officer was dispatched for a minor two-car crash. A report is on file.

• An officer was called to a complaint of harassment. It was determined to be a civil matter.

• An officer received information regarding possible underage nude photos and solicitation of a minor. The matter is currently under investigation.

Saturday, August 23

• An officer was called for a complaint of a person sleeping in a lawn chair and obstructing the sidewalk. The individual was located, and advised that this is not allowed. The individual left peacefully.

Sunday, August 24

• An officer was called to investigate the use of prop money as real money. The matter is under investigation.

_{This story was edited on Tuesday, August 26, at 3:45 p.m. for the addition of the second week's blotter.}

According to the Michigan Department of Transportation, multiple lane closures will be in effect this week in Big Rapids near the Perry Avenue overpass.

The overpass will continue to have a scheduled lane closure of the far-right lane through Friday, Aug. 29, at 3 p.m.

Southbound U.S. 131 near Exit 139 will also have a scheduled lane closure from Tuesday, Aug. 26, at 7 a.m. to Thursday, Aug. 28, at 7 p.m.

The westbound loop on-ramp will remain closed until June 30, 2026, according to the Michigan Department of Transportation.

To see the MDOT Drive Map, visit https://mdotjboss.state.mi.us/MiDrive/map#.

District 3 of the Michigan Sheriffs’ Association is continuing an investigation involving the deputy-involved shooting that occurred around 11:20 a.m. on Friday, Aug. 22.

According to a release, investigators have concluded the 36-year-old woman was motioning to throw a gasoline explosive device at a deputy and his partner. The woman remains at Butterworth Hospital in Grand Rapids with non-life-threatening injuries.

The incident occured in an address on Hayes Road near 230th Avenue in Mecosta Township.

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

Despite a significant fire this weekend, Michigan ADAS Calibrations and Glass announced it will remain open.

The business sustained interior and exterior damage from an electrical fire Saturday afternoon. To continue operations, staff moved equipment and reopened Monday in the adjacent building, the former site of JR Customs and Collision. The new state-of-the-art facility for JR Customs and Collision held its grand opening on Thursday evening.

"We're fortunate enough that the new building is up and we moved out of the old body shop," co-owner Jason Rehkopf said. "We're gonna start working out of the old shop for the winter, until we get the new one rebuilt.

Despite the circumstances, Rehkopf is grateful to keep the doors open.

"Yesterday was a long day, however, it all came together and we can still do full capacity (work)."

There was determined to be no foul play as the cause of the fire.

For business inquiries, visit https://michiganadas.com/ or call 231-598-9132.

_{Photo courtesy of Michigan ADAS Calibrations and Glass.}

Monday, August 18

• At 9:23 a.m., deputies responded to a one vehicle crash in Mecosta Township. An additional investigation resulted in the male driver being arrested for Operating While Intoxicated. He was lodged at the Mecosta County Jail. 

Calls for Service: 16

Traffic Accidents: 1

Tuesday, August 19

Calls for Service: 15

Traffic Accidents: 1

Wednesday, August 20

Calls for Service: 15

Traffic Accidents: 4

Thursday, August 21

• No incidents reported.

Friday, August 22

Calls for Service: 22

Traffic Accidents: 3

Saturday, August 23

• At 8:00 p.m. deputies responded to a domestic incident at a residence in Big Rapids Township. Two male subjects were arrested for Assault. Both were lodged at the Mecosta County Jail.

Calls for Service: 13

Traffic Accidents: 2

Sunday, August 24

Calls for Service: 12

Traffic Accidents: 2

At 7:56 a.m. on Saturday, emergency personnel was dispatched to U.S. 131 near 4 Mile Road for a single-car crash.

It was found that a 58-year-old driver from Cedar Springs lost control on the wet roadway, ran off the road, and collided with a tree. The driver was pinned in the vehicle and had to be extricated by fire and rescue personnel. 

Time of the crash hasn't been confirmed at this time.

The driver was transported to a hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. Deputies were assisted by Mecosta/Austin Township Fire, Morley Fire and Rescue, and Mecosta County EMS.

No one can blame Daniel Atwood for overflowing enthusiasm as Ferris State University prepares for the return of a marching band to campus.  

Atwood, an assistant professor of Humanities and director of Athletic Bands at Ferris State, is excited but also knows that the newly formed, 77-member marching band has a lot of work to do between now and the group’s first public performance on Thursday, Aug. 28, the 2025 season and home opener at Top Taggart Field, 1215 Campus Drive in Big Rapids, for the Ferris State football team, the reigning NCAA Division II National Champions.  

“That it’s coming up fast is a scary part but being a part of something so historic and meaningful is exciting for all of us,” Atwood said. “There’s a lot of work that is being done behind the scenes when you talk about getting instruments ordered, uniforms ordered, policies, and expectations. There are a lot of structural pieces that go into beginning a marching band that need to be in place.”  

The Ferris State marching band started in 1955 and performed for decades, including at President Richard M. Nixon’s second inauguration parade in 1973. Waning interest and downsizing led to the band being discontinued in the mid-1990s. The band returns after more than a year of planning and fundraising.  

Atwood said there is considerable interest. He set a goal of recruiting 55 band members – only to get that and 22 more.  

“It's just unreal, you know, it's just great to finally see that coming together,” he said. “It’s especially exciting because it’s already bigger than what we thought it was going to be – bigger than we planned. That’s a great thing. It’s extremely exciting.”  

Kyren Passenier, a junior and drum major for the marching band, is already confident the group’s debut is going to be a highlight of his college career.  

“Honestly, it's probably the most exciting thing I've done since I started here at Ferris State. I’m really happy to have such a big part of what the band is and will become,” said Passenier, a Ravenna native and Secondary English Education major who plays the trumpet. “It gives me chills just thinking about what it’s going to be like on Aug. 28.”  

Witnessing the band’s early growth has participants thinking the sky is the limit for the program’s potential, said Midland native Matthew McConnell, the band’s commanding officer.  

“We had a massive jump in people joining,” said McConnell, a Pre-Veterinary Science major who plays the mellophone. “It’s amazing looking around and having all these friends and teammates who are all excited with what we are doing and what we’re going to do.”  

McConnell believes the marching band will enhance the great things already taking place at Ferris State. 

“Ferris State is already known for having really good sports programs. So, we know there’s already a lot of energy,” he said. “We’re excited about how the marching band is going to add to that energy and help get everyone hyped up even more.”  

Atwood sees an additional, if less obvious, bonus of a marching band: band parents.  

“Band parents can be die-hard, you know, they will show up,” he said. “I've already received emails and text messages from parents saying, ‘We got our season tickets to the football games.’ As a high school band parent, they’re doing a lot. This is their opportunity to just kind of sit back, relax and enjoy their student being part of a collegiate marching band.”  

Atwood and a staff that includes Micah Laird, the assistant director of the marching band and conductor of the concert and jazz bands, are continuing extensive behind-the-scenes work. They inventoried what was available to them from past bands, while borrowing and purchasing new equipment, to have this new iteration of the marching band ready for the 2025-26 academic year.

In the Music Center, they had a substantial amount of older equipment, but having a budget has allowed the marching band to begin pursuing all-new silver bass instruments and a new silver chrome saxophone line – for starters.  

Recruiting, including more than 30 first-year students, has been a big part of their efforts with band members from “as far away as Alabama and as close as Big Rapids,” Atwood said.  

Faith Jones, a sophomore from Whitehall majoring in Pre-Pharmacy, was enticed to come to Ferris State in part for the band opportunity.  

“I did marching band all throughout high school,” said Jones, who plays the piccolo and is a section leader for the flutes. “Last year, I joined the pep band because I knew our marching band was coming back when I was actually touring Ferris State as a senior in high school.”  

Jones sees the expansion of opportunities, particularly for local and regional high school students who participate in bands. 

“It is so exciting to have another opportunity, another musical outlet. A part of me was afraid at one point of what would happen to music for me after high school,” she said. “I’ve been able to keep my love for music going. Here, I have learned new instruments. I've learned to play the saxophone. I'm now on the Piccolo, which I barely knew how to play during my senior year of high school. I love Ferris. I love being here.”  

Jones added, “We have a saying here in the Ferris music community, ‘Music for Life.’ Even though we don’t have a music major, we’re all continuing our careers and enjoying music, which brings so much joy.”  

Marching band members look forward to putting on the uniforms for real on Thursday, Aug. 28, when the preseason nationally top-ranked Bulldog Football Team hosts ninth-ranked Pittsburg State University from Kansas with kickoff scheduled for 6 p.m.  

“I hope it gives the crowd chills as much as it will me and the other members of the band,” Passenier said. “There are almost no words to describe how exciting it is to be bringing marching band back, how excited I am, and how happy I am going to be to see our team doing so well out here because. Even though we're called a marching band, we're still a team like any other sports team here on campus.”  

The team concept is not lost on Atwood either. “One of the most rewarding aspects of this experience is watching these students come together and create an incredible marching band culture.  They have been working together from 9 a.m. until about 8 p.m. every day for two straight weeks.  They are out in the heat, the sun and the humidity and so the success of this program belongs to them.  I couldn’t ask for a better group of students to work with.” 

Atwood is thankful for the support the marching band has received from Ferris State President Bill Pink and others. Atwood applauded Pink’s ability to see the full scope of what a marching band can bring to campus and beyond. 

Atwood noted that the marching band, among other opportunities, will be performing at LMCU Park in Comstock Park as the West Michigan Whitecaps close their season on Sept. 7.  

Those opportunities and more will be available thanks to supporters like Pink.  

“Well, obviously, we never could have done it without his support,” Atwood said. “From the very beginning, the day I started here two years ago, he has been a huge advocate of what the program is going to bring across campus – not just with Athletics and the football game day experience. For our band students alone, having this opportunity to participate in an organization like this on our campus is going to mean building friendships and relationships that will last the rest of their lives.” 

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

At approximately 11:20 a.m. on Friday, Aug. 22, deputies from the Mecosta County Sheriff’s Office assisted a property owner on Hayes Road near 230th Avenue with a 36-year-old woman who refused to leave his property. 

According to a press release, the woman initially ignored commands and assaulted the deputies. She then threatened them with a weapon, forcing a deputy to shoot her with his firearm.

The woman was transported to Corewell Health Big Rapids Hospital and later transferred by AeroMed to Butterworth Hospital in Grand Rapids for non-life-threatening injuries.

The incident remains under investigation by multiple outside law enforcement agencies.

The Mecosta County Sheriff’s Office was assisted by the Big Rapids Department of Public Safety, Mecosta Township Fire and Rescue, Big Rapids Fire and Rescue, Mecosta County EMS, and Meceola Central Dispatch.

On Wednesday, Aug. 20, troopers from the Michigan State Police (MSP) responded to a residence in Ionia County regarding a missing 80-year-old man with dementia. 

The call came in around 7 p.m., and the man had last been seen two hours earlier near his residence on the 900 block of West Long Lake Road in Orleans. After a nearly four-hour search, an MSP helicopter located the man just after 10:50 p.m. in a wooded area south of Long Lake Road. Ground units made contact with the man and provided medical care.

A video has been released by MSP Sixth District regarding the location of the man. Watch it here: https://x.com/mspwestmi/status/1958547868542804118.

_{Release info courtesy of Michigan State Police - Sixth District.}

This summer, Michigan Works! West Central saw a similar number of job seekers as in 2024 for their hiring parties.

A total of 632 job seekers attended one of six events hosted by Michigan Works! in Big Rapids, Newaygo, Ludington, Hart, Baldwin, or Reed City. This number is comparable to what they saw a year ago, when 638 attendees participated. The number of employers was also similar. In 2025, 174 employers attended, six fewer than the previous year.

“As far as employers go, we had strong representation from local manufacturing, health care, nonprofit agencies, and education providers,” said Jonathan Eppley, Communication and Marketing Manager. “Also on-site were skilled trades, financial, social services, transportation, and more.”

In 2025, Michigan Works! reported that 144 of the 632 attendees were hired by their respective companies, a 23% job placement rate, about 15 percentage points lower than in 2024.

This was the fourth year Michigan Works! hosted hiring events, with a total of 1,936 job seekers and 676 employers participating across all events. Eppley said the organization plans to host summer parties once again in 2026. 

For more information, visit https://www.mwwc.org/.

On Wednesday, Aug. 20, emergency personnel responded to a single-vehicle crash on northbound U.S. 131 near mile marker 127.

An investigation revealed that a deer struck the vehicle, but the driver maintained control and steered the vehicle off the roadway.

The driver, a 50-year-old man from Coloma, received medical treatment at the scene but declined transport by EMS. The passenger, a 48-year-old woman from Coloma, was taken to Corewell Health Hospital in Big Rapids with non-life-threatening injuries.

Deputies were assisted by Mecosta Township Fire and Rescue, Morley Fire and Rescue, Mecosta County EMS, Meceola Central Dispatch, and Frontline Towing.

The city of Big Rapids recently announced it will host a design contest for the development of a new secondary logo.

The contest is open to all, and submissions can be made until 4 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 19.

Final submissions will serve as inspiration for the city’s new logo, which will promote marketing, tourism, recreation, and economic development on digital media platforms.

"The City is super excited to have the community involved and get their perspective on the inspiration of Big Rapids," said Steve Gove, communications coordinator.

Submitted designs will also be judged for prizes, with first place receiving $500, second place receiving $250, and third place receiving $100. Judges include city staff, local business owners, representatives from Artworks, and members of Ferris State University.

There is no theme for submissions. Artifical intelligence designs will not be accepted.

To submit a design, participants can download a submission form online and return it to Artworks (also known as the Painted Turtle Gift Shop) in Big Rapids or email it to artworks@artworksinbigrapids.org.

For more information, visit the contest packet HERE.

_{UPDATED: Thursday, Aug. 21 at 9:00 a.m. for additional details provided by the City of Big Rapids.}

On Wednesday, August 20, 2025, at 2:42 p.m., deputies from the Mecosta County Sheriff's Office were dispatched to a single-vehicle crash at the intersection of 11 Mile Road and 55th Avenue in Wheatland Township.

The investigation revealed that a 44-year-old woman from Mecosta was traveling eastbound on 11 Mile Road when she attempted to avoid colliding with another vehicle. The maneuver caused her to veer off the road and strike a utility pole. She was transported from the scene with non-life-threatening injuries.

Deputies were assisted by Mecosta County EMS, Wheatland Township Fire/Rescue, Meceola Central Dispatch, Huff's Towing, and Tri-County Electric.

Monday, August 4

• An officer transported a 29-year-old man on an outstanding warrant from Mecosta County Jail to Osceola County Jail.
• An officer was called for an open 911 call. Upon arrival, the individual was washing his vehicle and was not aware of the accidental dial to 911.
• An officer was called to assist CPS with interviewing a child. This case is currently under investigation by Osceola County Sheriff's Office.

Tuesday, August 5

• An officer was called for suspected illicit drug use in a public place. The investigation revealed that the individual was taking prescribed medication.
• An officer made a traffic stop on an electric scooter for failing to obey a traffic sign/signal. The individual was advised on laws for his mode of transportation and given a verbal warning.
• An officer located an individual sleeping on a bench in a public place during patrol of the area. The person stated they were homeless. They refused transportation to a shelter and chose to move on.
• An officer received a complaint of a person sleeping in a public restroom. The person stated they were homeless. They refused transportation and chose to move on.

Wednesday, August 6

• An officer was called for a trespassing complaint. A video that the complainant shared was viewed and the individuals were interviewed. There was no intentional trespassing found and a verbal warning was given.
• An officer took a complaint for an individual possibly living in a camper in the backyard of a home. It was determined to be kids having a sleep over for the night.
• An officer attempted numerous times to serve a notice for overgrown grass. The lawn was mowed before the officer made contact.
• An officer was called for a complaint of multiple cats causing issues in a neighborhood. It was found the cats were being drawn in by a dish of food on the front porch and were defecating on others’ property. The owner was contacted regarding creating a public nuisance, as well as health issues were explained to the owner. This complaint remains open at this time.

Thursday, August 7

• An officer was called for an individual being instructed to leave the city campground after a loud argument took place. The matter was investigated. The tempered individual calmed down and left without further incident.

• An officer was called for an abandoned vehicle on private property. The officer advised the individual it was a civil matter.

• An officer was dispatched for a 911 call hang up inside and outside of a business. The officer checked the business and the area. The owner of the phone called dispatch back and advised their phone was malfunctioning.

• An officer was dispatched to a burglar alarm. Upon arrival, the business was secure and there was no noise, lights, or activity seen inside. No one was located in the area and the alarm was unfounded.

• An officer was called for a well being check. All was found to be okay.

Friday, August 8

• No incidents were reported.

Saturday, August 9

• No incidents were reported.

Sunday, August 10

• No incidents were reported.

Monday, August 11

• No incidents reported.

Tuesday, August 12

• Officers were dispatched to a report of a person discharging a firearm within city limits. Contact was made with the individual and the investigation is ongoing, pending review by the prosecuting attorney.
• Officers were dispatched to a road rage complaint. Contact was made with the complainant at the police department.

Wednesday, August 13

• Officers were dispatched to a report of a package stolen from a porch at a residence. The investigation is ongoing.
• Officers were dispatched to a residence for a fraud complaint. The complainant sent money via an app before realizing it was a scam. The investigation is ongoing.
• An officer investigated a retail fraud complaint from a local business. The individual was identified and located. A report was sent to the prosecuting attorney.

Thursday, August 14

• Officers were dispatched to an animal complaint. The case was referred to animal control for further investigation before a report is sent to the prosecuting attorney’s office.
• Officers were dispatched to a trespassing complaint. The individual was escorted off the property.

Friday, August 15

• An officer assisted Osceola County EMS with a medical call involving CPR in progress. The officer provided CPR assistance.
• Officers stopped a vehicle for a traffic violation. The driver was found operating without insurance, without a license, and with an open alcohol container. The driver received an appearance citation, and the vehicle was towed.
• Officers were dispatched to investigate a civil dispute.

Saturday, August 16

• No incidents reported.

Sunday, August 17

• No incidents reported.

At last night’s meeting, the Big Rapids City Commission unanimously approved a preliminary plan for a condominium development on Bjornson Street.

The property at 1102 Bjornson St. spans about 20 acres and is zoned R-1. The first phase of the project will include 23 single-family homes. Phase two will add 31 units, creating a total of 54 units after completion.

Two new roads, extensions of Loudon and Mechanic streets, will be developed on the property. The Department of Public Works raised concerns about stormwater, sanitary systems, street maintenance, and road turnarounds, which must be addressed in further development. Six different house designs, including bi-level and ranch-style, were presented to the commission as samples for the project. 

“In the next year, we’ll need new roads, sewer and public infrastructure,” said Michelle Stenger, community development director. “We’re in negotiations with the developer, and those are not part of this proposal. The proposal before you tonight is mainly to approve the applicant’s layout.”

The preliminary condominium subdivision plan is valid for two years, with the option for a one-year extension if needed.

The Planning Commission granted initial approval for the project on July 16.

Green Development Ventures, based in Portage, is leading the project. The company has developed similar properties in White Cloud and Greenville.

Ferris State University’s residence halls, apartments and suites will soon be buzzing with activity as new and returning students get ready for the start of the 2025-26 academic year. 

For Ferris State students residing in campus housing, fall move-in days signal the beginning of new adventures. 

The Housing and Residence Life team has move-in dates beginning Thursday, Aug. 21 and Friday, Aug. 22 for students and their families to begin with the basics such as bedding, desk lamps, and other necessities.

Director of Housing and Residence Life Lisa Ortiz loves the energy on campus as students arrive. 

“There's a strong sense of community at Ferris State University and our move-in days are great opportunities for us to welcome new and returning students to our community,” she said. “One of the great things about this time of the year is the general excitement. We have so many students who are looking forward to new experiences and opportunities.” 

Campus move-in days begin Aug. 21 and 22 and run through Aug. 24 for students and parents preferring to use the weekend to move. 

Students can set their move-in appointment times and schedule ahead by using the My Housing site when it opens. 

Move-in day begin with a check-in at Ferris State’s Ewigleben Sports Complex, 210 Sports Drive. The next step is heading to the location of the student’s on-campus residence hall. Directions to each hall are available on the move-in page. 

There’s a lot going on, but the Housing and Residence Life team encourages new and returning Bulldogs to embrace the experience. 

“What I would tell people who are coming to Big Rapids for move-in is to enjoy every moment,” Ortiz said. “There’s going to feel like a little bit of chaos, but you’re going to see a lot of friendly faces and helpful people on our campus. We want everyone to enjoy the experience and feel free to reach out to us with questions.” 

Additional information is available on the move-in days website here including tips for  students and families to prepare and what to expect for that day and beyond. 

Ferris State’s first day of classes is scheduled for Monday, Aug. 25. 

Residence Life team members are available to answer questions by email or phone at (231) 591-3745. 

People interested in application or financial aid information ahead of the 2025-26 academic year can visit the Admissions website. 

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

Ahead of the 2025 high school football season, Big Rapids Media has announced their football radio and coverage teams for this fall.

Big Rapids High School Football

Cardinal football will return this season on Big Country.

Returning in the play-by-play role is J.T. Scarpelli, who will embark on his fifth consecutive season on the microphone. The former baseball skipper has nearly 20 years of athletic coaching and playing experience as well as over a decade in radio.

"I’m excited to cover another great year of Cardinal football," Scarpelli said. "Jason and I really enjoy covering the stories of the kids as well as the development of the team as a whole. Additionally, we’re going to be grading each stadium’s concession stand! Grill them up!

Joining Scarpelli in the color commentary role is Jason Kostecki. The long-time basketball coach will be his second straight full season in the role.

"For sports fans the onset of fall means one thing: it's football season," Kostecki said. "I am looking forward to working alongside JT calling another Cardinal football season."

Games will also be streamed on 100.9 FM, WWBR.com and the WWBR mobile app, starting at 6:30 p.m. every game day.

Reed City High School Football

Reed City Coyote football also will come back to Y-102 this fall. 

Brandon Wirth will lead the team for the third straight year as the play-by-play voice of the action. The Coyote alum boasts over four years of sports broadcasting experience on all platforms.

“I’m excited to be back to call Coyote football this season,” Wirth said. “This season has high expectations on the field and we will assume the same standard in the booth. We’ve got a lot of great things in the works and fans should enjoy an improved game experience this fall."

Returning once again in the color commentary role will be Mark Holcomb. The fellow varsity girls basketball assistant coach enters his second straight season within the network.

“For the Coyotes, the playoffs start right away,” Holcomb said. “With the front and back end of our schedule, every game matters.”

Game coverage will be heard at 102.3 FM, WYBR.com and the WYBR mobile app, starting at 6:30 p.m. every game day.

The Rundown and Additional Coverage

The newest member of this year’s coverage team is Jack Heckman, who will serve as the studio analyst and board operator for both teams and stations every Friday night. 

“I’m excited to work with two amazing crews and be a part of people’s Friday nights." Heckman said

The hit coverage show, The Rundown, will make a return this fall with a new, expanded format. Video coverage will include week-to-week football games, stats, and analysis, but will also highlight other local fall sports in the area. Heckman, along with the other four broadcasters, will make various episode appearances on the show.

Radio coverage for the show will include weekly football recaps from both broadcast teams, including Reed City, Big Rapids, and other local team matchups. These recaps will be featured on 107.7 FM, WBRN.com, and the WBRN mobile app on Saturdays at 3:30 p.m.

A full CSAA pre-season guide will also be featured on Big Rapids Daily News via wbrn.com. This will include full season schedules, key players, and things to watch for each team. Stay tuned for its release coming soon.

Monday, August 11

• At 6:19 p.m., deputies were involved in a short pursuit in Morton Township. A traffic stop was made and the male driver was arrested for Fleeing & Eluding and Operating While Intoxicated. He was lodged at the Mecosta County Jail. 

Calls for Service: 20

Traffic Accidents: 3

Tuesday, August 12

Calls for Service: 20

Traffic Accidents: 2

Wednesday, August 13

Calls for Service: 13

Traffic Accidents: 4

Thursday, August 14

• No incidents reported.

Friday, August 15

Calls for Service: 25

Traffic Accidents: 2

Saturday, August 16

• At 9:43 a.m., deputies made a traffic stop in Mecosta Township. The traffic stop resulted in the male driver being arrested for Operating While Intoxicated. He was lodged at the Mecosta County Jail.

• At 9:03 p.m., deputies made a warrant arrest in Colfax Township. Two females were arrested on felony warrants. Both were lodged at the Mecosta County Jail.

Calls for Service: 13

Traffic Accidents: 3

Sunday, August 17

• At 5:54 p.m., deputies made a warrant arrest in Colfax Township. A female was arrested on a felony warrant. She was lodged at the Mecosta County Jail.

Calls for Service: 22

Traffic Accidents: 1

On Saturday, Aug. 16, Osceola County emergency personnel was dispatched to Big Lake in Sears for a reported boating accident.

According to witnesses, one individual went underwater and did not resurface.

Search operations were conducted throughout the evening but were eventually suspended due to darkness. They will resume at 8:00 a.m. on Sunday morning.

The public is being asked to refrain from boating on Big Lake during this time, so that emergency crews may safely utilize boats and sonar equipment to continue search operations.

The Osceola County Sheriff’s Office Dive Team was assisted by the Mecosta County Sheriff’s Office Dive Team, Michigan Department of Natural Resources Conservation Officers, Morton Township Fire Department, and Mecosta Township Fire Department.

Additional information will be shared as it becomes available.

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

On Thursday, August 14, at 5:33 p.m., deputies from the Mecosta County Sheriff’s Office were dispatched to a two vehicle crash on 30th Avenue and 17 Mile Road in Sheridan Township.

The investigation revealed that an 82-year-old woman from Dearborn was turning right on 17 Mile Road, when she changed her mind last minute and turned left. She then hit a camper trailer that was being pulled by a 50-year-old man from Stanton, as the man was attempting to to pass the woman heading north. The 82-year-old woman was transported to Butterworth’s Hospital in Grand Rapids for non-life threatening injuries. The 50-year-old man was not injured in the crash.

Deputies were assisted by Meceola Dispatch, Barryton Village Police, Fork Township Rescue, Barryton Fire/Rescue, and Huff's Towing. 

Monday, August 4

• An officer was dispatched for a civil standby for a custody exchange. The child exchange took place without any issues.
• An officer responded to a residence for an ordinance violation/animal complaint.
• An officer was dispatched for a noise complaint at a residence. The officer discussed the violation with the occupants of the residence and the issue was corrected.

Tuesday, August 5

• An officer was dispatched to a civil dispute over child custody. The complainant wanted the situation documented due to one parent refusing parenting time to the other.
• Officers were investigating a possible assault complaint and learned one of the involved parties had a warrant. The subject with the warrant was taken into custody and lodged.
• Officers were dispatched to a mental health call. The subject was transported to Reed City Hospital without incident.

Wednesday, August 6

• An officer was dispatched to a civil dispute over property.
• An officer was dispatched to a retail fraud at a local business. The subject has been identified and a report was sent to the prosecutor's office. 
• An officer was dispatched to a civil complaint. The caller was in the process of being evicted and was feeling overwhelmed. The officer assist the subject with getting to the hospital for an evaluation.

Thursday, August 7

• An officer was dispatched to a business to check the VIN of a vehicle in which the property owner was having towed.  

• An officer was dispatched to a residence regarding a harassment complaint. The officer spoke to the parties involved.

• An officer was dispatched to a retail fraud at a local business. The subject has been identified and a report was sent to the prosecutor's office.

• An officer was dispatched to a complaint regarding malicious destruction of property. The complaint remains open at this time.

• An officer was dispatched to assist the Osceola County Sheriff's Office with a personal injury accident.

• An officer was checking on a motorist and discovered the operator of the vehicle was exhibiting signs of intoxication. After further investigation, the operator was arrested and lodged. 

• An officer was requested by the Osceola County Sheriff's Office to assist in locating a suspect with finding a wanted subject that fled from deputies.

Friday, August 8

• No incidents reported.

Saturday, August 9

• An officer was dispatched to a local business regarding a subject the business wanted trespassed. The subject was served with the 'No Trespass' notice.   

Sunday, August 10

• An officer was dispatched to a retail fraud at a local business. The complaint remains open at this time.

Two Michigan icons – Ferris State University and Stormy Kromer – are teaming up for a bold new collaboration that celebrates resilience, tradition, and the unmatched pride of the Great Lakes State while supporting students through scholarships.

The legendary Upper Peninsula brand, known for its handcrafted caps and century-old legacy, has partnered with Ferris State to release an iconic cap that captures the tough, tenacious Bulldog spirit, while giving back to Ferris State students with every purchase.

This special-edition Stormy Kromer launched on Tuesday, Aug. 12 and features a vibrant Ferris State design, embroidered with the proud Bulldog logo — a wearable symbol of grit, warmth, and Michigan roots.

The caps are available at ferris.edu/stormykromer for $55, with $20 of each sale through Sept. 20 – Ferris State’s Homecoming – supporting the Ferris State Alumni Association’s Legacy Scholarship. Look for additional surprises by the Stormy Kromer team at Homecoming.

“We are super excited and proud to have this Pure Michigan partnership with Stormy Kromer,” said Brandi Behrenwald, executive director of the Ferris State Alumni Association. “It’s a natural fit! Just like Ferris State, Stormy Kromer has a rugged and proud tradition dating back more than 100 years.”

The Legacy Scholarship honors students who carry on the Bulldog tradition within their families, recognizing academic excellence and leadership in students whose parent, sibling, grandparent, son, or daughter is a Ferris State graduate.

Handcrafted in Ironwood, Michigan, near the Wisconsin border, each cap is cut and sewn by a team of about 70 skilled craftspeople at Jacquart Fabric Products — the family-owned home of Stormy Kromer. Known around the globe for its signature wool design and iconic front-tied ear flaps, the Stormy Kromer cap has long been a badge of honor among outdoorsmen, tradespeople, and proud Michiganders.

The new Ferris State edition is part of Stormy Kromer’s recently launched Collegiate Collection, combining school spirit with timeless Michigan craftsmanship.

“I remember hearing stories about the company starting in my great-grandfather’s grocery store building. My dad has told me stories of my great-grandfather giving out food for free during tough times to feed people,” said Gina Jacquart Thorson, CEO of Jacquart Fabric Products.

“Giving back is one of the reasons why I joined my family’s business. We do a lot of that locally, but we’re always looking for other partnerships that have a charitable component. Looking for ways for us to be partners to make it a win-win. Hats go out the door, and money goes somewhere it is meaningful. In this instance, with Ferris State wanting to partner so closely in so many ways, giving back made sense.”

Born in 1903 out of necessity and love — when railroad engineer and semi-pro baseball player George “Stormy” Kromer asked his wife, Ida, to modify his cap so it wouldn’t blow off in the wind — the Kromer cap has become a treasured part of Michigan tradition. From hunting camps to city streets, it's a symbol of the state’s resourcefulness, resilience, and deep connection to the outdoors.

“It’s more than just a hat you wear,” Thorson said. “It’s something that becomes part of people’s lives and has meaning for them.”

That meaning weaves into every stitch, from the thick wool material to the cozy, pull-down , flaps that thrive even in Michigan’s harshest winter winds.

“Many people have fond memories of their grandfather wearing the hat, or other members of their family,” she said. “It has become a tradition in many families. Like, the first year you go to hunting camp, you get your first Kromer. We hear all these stories about traditions and nostalgia. It has a bit of an old-fashioned look. It’s not super-modern. I think for a lot of people it brings back good memories and a connection to the outdoors.”

The collegiate line bridges that love for Michigan’s beautiful outdoors with the fierce pride alumni and students hold for their universities and sports teams.

“I was so happy that Ferris State was one of the schools I was personally connected with and was able to have conversations about what a program could look like,” Thorson said. “We were brainstorming about not just producing a cap for sale, but about how else we could partner with the university.”

Together, Stormy Kromer and Ferris State are weaving legacy into every hat — the legacy of family, education, craftsmanship, and the Michigan way of life.

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

On Wednesday, August 13, at approximately 2:38 p.m., deputies from the Mecosta County Sheriff's Department were dispatched to a two-vehicle crash with injuries on Northland Drive in Big Rapids Township.

IThe investigation revealed that a 62-year-old man from Big Rapids failed to yield the right of way to northbound traffic, causing the 36-year-old man from Big Rapids to veer off the roadway and hit a sign near Denny's Muffler and Brake shop. The 36-year-old man was transport to Big Rapids Corwell Health for his injuries.

The Mecosta County Sheriff's Department was assisted by Big Rapids Fire/Recue, Mecosta County EMS, Big Rapids Towing, Big Rapids Police Department, Ferris State University Police Department, and Meceola Central Dispatch.

The Band of Locals is excited to announce the 57th Annual Labor Day Arts & Crafts Festival in downtown Big Rapids on Monday, Sept. 1, 2025. The group will again partner with the River Valley Car Club for a car show open to all.

“We are thrilled to invite everyone to downtown Big Rapids for the Labor Day Festival, hosted by the Band of Locals,” said Lisa David, Band of Locals board president. “After receiving many positive comments about last year's festival, we’ve added new family-friendly elements, including a Kids’ Zone and a performance by Jake Slater, an Elvis tribute artist. Our mission is local businesses banding together to support each other and our communities. This event brings that vision to life.”

The festival features a full lineup of activities, with the Arts & Crafts Show running from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and the Car Show from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Car show registration is from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. on the day of the event.

“The River Valley Car Club is excited to participate again in the Labor Day Festival,” said Bruce Reges, River Valley Car Club president. “We’ll offer dash plaques to the first 100 registered vehicles and a chance to win one of 30 trophies. Our club is a dedicated group of volunteers and car enthusiasts committed to raising funds for local nonprofits, including veteran organizations. We hope everyone will visit downtown to enjoy great vehicles and support our local nonprofits.”

Additional festival highlights include an official kickoff at 10 a.m. with the Call to Colors by Big Rapids AMVETS Post 1941, followed by the national anthem performed by Allison LaVeque. Attendees can also enjoy music by Raised on Radio, food trucks, DJs, and downtown shopping and dining.

“The Band of Locals thanks our amazing sponsors, Ferris State University and Horizon Bank,” David said. “We can’t think of a better way to wrap up summer than with this fantastic Labor Day event in our downtown business district. It’s going to be a great day in Big Rapids.”

While booth spaces for 2025 are full, visit BandOfLocals.org/Events for more details or to participate in the 2026 Band of Locals Labor Day Festival.

_{Release courtesy of Band of Locals.}

Monday, August 4

• At 9:04 a.m., deputies recovered stolen property at a residence in Austin Township. A female subject was arrested for Possession of Stolen Property. She was lodged at the Mecosta County Jail.
• At 3:04 p.m., deputies made a warrant arrest in Big Rapids Township. The male subject was lodged at the Mecosta County Jail.

Calls for Service: 13

Traffic Accidents: 2

Tuesday, August 5

Calls for Service: 16

Traffic Accidents: 4

Wednesday, August 6

• No incidents reported.

Thursday, August 7

• No incidents reported.

Friday, August 8

Calls for Service: 10

Traffic Accidents: 4

Saturday, August 9

• At 3:28 a.m., deputies made a traffic stop in Big Rapids Township. The traffic stop resulted in the male driver being arrested for Operating While Intoxicated. He was lodged at the Mecosta County Jail.

• At 6:21 p.m., deputies responded to an assault complaint at a residence in Mecosta Township. A male subject was arrested for Assault and Battery. He was lodged at the Mecosta County Jail.

• At 10:20 p.m., deputies responded to a disorderly complaint in Aetna Township. A male subject was arrested for Disorderly Conduct. He was lodged at the Mecosta County Jail.

Calls for Service: 10

Traffic Accidents: 2

Sunday, August 10

• At 7:56 a.m., deputies made a warrant arrest at a residence in Colfax Township. A female subject was arrested on a warrant. She was lodged at the Mecosta County Jail.

• At 9:10 p.m., deputies responded to a disorderly complaint in Aetna TWP. A male subject was arrested for Assault and Malicaious Destruction to Property towards EMS and their ambulance. He was lodged at the Mecosta County Jail.

• At 10:17 p.m., deputies responded to a one vehicle crash in Hinton Township. Additional investigating resulted in the female driver being Operating While Intoxicated.  She was lodged at the Mecosta County Jail.

Calls for Service: 14

Traffic Accidents: 7

The annual Great American Crossroads Celebration returns this weekend in Reed City. From Friday through Sunday, visitors and locals can enjoy a variety of fun activities and events.

For those planning to attend the festival, here are 10 things to know:

1. The children’s carnival is back!

• Kids’ activities will take place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 16. Swing by Westerburg park for face painting, a bounce house, prize games, playground fun, and more.

2. Compete with a friend in cornhole.

• Reed City Athletics will host the fourth annual cornhole event on Saturday, Aug. 16. The double-elimination tournament begins at 1 p.m. Registration and check-in start at noon, with an entry fee of $40 per team. Register online here: SCOREHOLIO.

3. Enjoy two parking lot parties.

• Each party will be held behind Sunny’s Sports Bar & Grill on Friday and Saturday nights from 6 p.m. to 1 a.m. Each night will feature live music and beverages. The cost of admission is $5 at the door.

4. Enjoy a downtown parade.

• This year’s theme is “A Blast from the Past.” Parade lineup begins around 5:45 p.m on Friday, Aug. 15. Kids can decorate their bikes for the parade starting at 5 p.m. at GT Norman Elementary.

5. Check out competitive softball tournaments.

• Games will take place at Westerburg Park from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Saturday and 7 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Sunday. Teams interested in playing must register by Wednesday, Aug. 13. Cost is $300 per team.

6. Check out a downtown car show.

• The 20th annual car show will take place from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 16, on downtown Upton Avenue. Registration costs $20 and begins at 9 a.m. Awards will be presented around 2 p.m.

7. Exercise with a 5K run.

• Hosted by the Reed City Cross Country program, the 5K run starts at 9 a.m. on Saturday, Aug. 16. The entry fee is $35 for adults and $25 for kids in grades K-12. Free post-race snacks will be provided and t-shirts will be given out, but not guaranteed for all.

8. Eat chicken for a good cause.

• VFW Post 2964 will host a chicken barbecue lunch and dinner on Saturday, Aug. 16. Lunch will be served at Westerburg Park from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., and dinner will be served at 129 E. Osceola Ave. from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. The cost per meal is $12, and live music will be featured at dinner.

9. Compete in a local duck race.

• The race starts at 1 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 16, at the Reed City Moose Lodge. The cost to compete is $5 per duck, with half of the proceeds going toward prize payouts and the other half towards the Moose.

10. The community will host a quilt show.

• A quilt celebration show will take place at Reed City United Methodist Church on Friday, Aug. 15, from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. Quilt drop-off starts at 10 a.m., and pickup is after 6 p.m.

For more details on the festivities, visit https://www.facebook.com/gaccreedcity/.

On Aug. 9, 2025, at approximately 2:25 p.m., deputies from the Newaygo County Sheriff’s Office were dispatched to 88th Street and Tulip Avenue in Brooks Township for a reported two-vehicle crash.

Upon arrival, deputies determined the crash involved a pickup truck and a golf cart-style mini Jeep. The mini Jeep was driven by an 83-year-old man from Newaygo, who was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver and passengers of the pickup truck were not injured.

A preliminary investigation suggests the mini Jeep pulled into the path of the pickup truck as it traveled west on 88th Street. The incident remains under investigation.

The Newaygo County Sheriff’s Office was assisted at the scene by the Newaygo Police Department, Michigan State Police, Newaygo Fire Department, Life EMS, Newaygo County Central Dispatch, and Jerry’s Towing.

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

Spc. Demarcus "DJ" Lee, a beloved former basketball standout from Big Rapids and a U.S. Army soldier, tragically passed away on August 5 following a car accident near Vilseck, Germany.

Lee, who served as a mortarman with the 2nd Cavalry Regiment, had been stationed in Germany for two years. During his service, he earned two Army Achievement Medals and the Expert Infantry Badge.

A 2022 graduate of Big Rapids High School, Lee was a celebrated basketball player, earning all-state, all-area, and all-conference honors throughout his high school career. He had planned to play basketball at Grand Rapids Community College, before choosing to enlist in the U.S. Army in February 2023.

Those that shared the court with DJ remebering his unselfishness and love for the game.

"DJ was a compassionate and caring young man, and our hearts go out to his family and friends," said former Big Rapids varsity boys basketball coach Kent Ingles. "He was a gifted athlete with incredible ball-handling skills. He loved the gym, and we loved him."

Jack Ruggles, a close friend and former teammate, described Lee as someone who always maintained a calm demeanor and positive attitude.

"I’ve known DJ nearly my entire life," Ruggles said. "We started playing basketball together when we were about five. Looking back at all our pictures together, I'm reminded just how much of an impact he had on all of us, not only as a teammate, but as a friend and a person."

For those that knew him in the classroom, DJ was remembered for his infectious spirit.

"When I think of DJ, the first thing that comes to mind is his smile," said Big Rapids High School teacher Kristy Britton. "In the classroom, he was always polite, kind, and a friend to everyone. His absence will be deeply felt for years to come."

According to the investigation, Lee was driving a Ford Fusion along a state forest road between Vilseck and Freihung when his vehicle veered off the road, struck a tree, and caught fire. The accident occurred approximately seven miles from Rose Barracks in Vilseck. Lee died at the scene.

Despite his passing, Lee’s spirit will continue to resonate within the Cardinal community.

"DJ was a remarkably talented young man who touched so many lives in Big Rapids," said Big Rapids Public Schools Superintendent Tim Haist. "His kind and caring heart will live on in our memories."

A link to DJ’s obituary will be shared once it is published.

_{Photo courtesy of Big Rapids Basketball.}

Cyclists participating in the Tour des Trees bike ride will plant a tree at Depot Trailhead Park in Big Rapids on Tuesday, Aug. 12, as part of their five-day, 430-mile journey across northwest Michigan.

The tree planting marks the start of the riders’ second day, beginning at about 8:10 a.m. with a traditional dedication ceremony. From Big Rapids, the group will head north on the White Pine Trail, ending the day in Traverse City. The public is invited to attend the event and greet the riders.

The cyclists, in collaboration with city officials, selected a Red Fort McNair chestnut for the planting. The Tour des Trees, a fundraiser and outreach event for the Tree Research and Education Endowment Fund (TREE Fund), promotes tree research and proper urban tree care through tree plantings and community events. The TREE Fund, a nonprofit, supports grants and scholarships for arborists and urban foresters.

This year’s ride, which starts and ends in Grand Rapids and passes through Big Rapids, Traverse City, Manistee, and Whitehall, has attracted 63 riders from the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom.

For more information on the route and events, visit www.treefund.org.

_{Release and logo courtesy of Tour de Trees.}

On Sunday, Aug. 10, deputies from the Mecosta County Sheriff’s Office investigated two additional crashes on southbound U.S. 131, both of which were caused by a traffic backup from two earlier incidents.

The first crash occurred at approximately 3:44 p.m. on U.S. 131 near 19 Mile Road in Green Township. A 42-year-old woman from Grand Rapids rear-ended a vehicle after traffic slowed due to a crash farther south on the highway. The vehicle she struck then hit the vehicle in front of it. The driver of the third vehicle was taken to Corewell Health Big Rapids Hospital for minor injuries.

The second crash occurred at approximately 7:19 p.m. on U.S. 131 at 4 Mile Road in Aetna Township. An 86-year-old man from Lawton experienced a possible medical issue while driving, causing his vehicle to leave the roadway and strike a tree. The driver and his 83-year-old passenger were hospitalized.

These crashes were two of four major accidents on U.S. 131 in the greater Big Rapids area on Sunday.

On Sunday, Aug. 10, at 11:59 a.m., local emergency personnel were dispatched to northbound U.S. 131 near mile marker 133 for a significant three-vehicle crash.

According to the investigation, a 33-year-old man from Norton Shores was traveling northbound and went off the road, hitting two unoccupied, parked vehicles. The man had a 26-year-old male passenger from Muskegon Heights in the vehicle at the time of the crash.

Two pedestrians, who were standing next to the vehicles, were injured in the collision. They were identified as a 27-year-old man from Sand Lake and a 30-year-old man from Big Rapids.

The 33-year-old driver from Norton Shores and his passenger suffered serious injuries and were pinned inside the vehicle, requiring extrication by firefighters on scene. The driver was taken by ambulance to Butterworth Hospital in Grand Rapids, while the 26-year-old was transported to Butterworth via AeroMed. The 30-year-old man from Big Rapids was treated and released at the scene.

Deputies were assisted on scene by Mecosta County EMS, Morton Township Fire & Rescue, AeroMed, Life EMS, Frontline Towing, Jerry’s Towing, Currie’s Towing, Michigan State Police and the Mecosta County Sheriff's Posse.

On Sunday, Aug. 10, at 12:07 p.m., the Mecosta County Sheriff’s Office and the Big Rapids Fire Department responded to a fatal crash on southbound U.S. 131 near mile marker 139.

According to a news release, emergency personnel arrived at the scene and found that a vehicle had veered off the roadway at high speed, struck the Perry Avenue overpass, and became engulfed in flames. After the Big Rapids Fire Department extinguished the fire, emergency personnel discovered two people and a dog inside the vehicle. The two individuals were identified as Mark Lewis, 59, of Kentwood, Michigan, and his sister, Tamyra Northern, 61, of Prior Lake, Minnesota. All three were pronounced dead at the scene. The cause of the crash remains under investigation, with all possible factors being considered.

Due to damage to the overpass, the bridge’s structural integrity may be compromised. As a result, southbound lanes of U.S. 131 will be closed at Perry Avenue and Exit 139 until further notice. This will allow the Michigan Department of Transportation to assess and repair the damage.

Deputies were assisted at the scene by Big Rapids Fire and Rescue, the Michigan State Police Accident Investigation Team, the Michigan Department of Transportation, Osceola County EMS, Mecosta County Sheriff’s Posse, Big Rapids Police Department, Ferris State University Department of Public Safety, Meceola Central Dispatch, the Mid-Michigan Medical Examiner Group, Townline Towing, and Currie’s Towing.

On Saturday, Aug. 9, at 5:38 p.m., deputies from the Mecosta County Sheriff’s Office were dispatched to a three-vehicle crash near the intersection of Pierce Road and 155th Avenue in Austin Township.

The investigation revealed that a 70-year-old man from Mecosta was traveling eastbound on Pierce Road and drifted over the centerline. His vehicle then sideswiped a semi traveling westbound, driven by a 49-year-old woman from Independence, Missouri. After sideswiping the semitruck, the Mecosta man’s vehicle struck a second vehicle, driven by a 54-year-old man from Granger, Indiana, who was traveling behind the semi.

After examining the scene, deputies determined the 70-year-old man from Mecosta had suffered a medical episode while behind the wheel during the crash. He was subsequently transported to Big Rapids Hospital by Mecosta County EMS. The other two drivers were not reported to have suffered any injuries.

Deputies were assisted by Morton Township Fire/Rescue, Mecosta County EMS, Frontline Towing, and Meceola Central Dispatch.

State Rep. Joseph Fox, R-Fremont, will hold a local office hours later this month in Baldwin.

The event will take place at Lake Township Hall on Friday, August 22, from 4 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. The address for the hall building is 15580 S. Star Lake Road, Baldwin, MI 49304.

Office hours are open to the public and anyone is welcome to attend. For more information or to contact Rep. Fox, his office can be reached at (517) 373-0825 or by email at JosephFox@house.mi.gov.

Fox represents the 101st District, which includes all of Newaygo, and parts of Oceana, Lake, Mason and Wexford counties.

Ferris State University and Sonic Coast, a Michigan focused national music streaming application, created a first-of-its-kind in the state partnership that will showcase the talent of students to a broader audience and provide hands-on experience.

“We are thrilled to announce a partnership with Sonic Coast, making Ferris State the only academic institution in Michigan to collaborate with the platform,” said Paul Kwant, program coordinator and assistant professor in the Music and Entertainment Business program. “This partnership will give our students a unique opportunity to amplify their voices across Michigan on the national Sonic Coast music streaming application.”

Kwant said that the Ferris State’s registered student organization Music and Entertainment Business Association will be directly involved with the project.

Further benefiting the students, this partnership includes daily on-air recognition, a minimum of three times daily, on the Sonic Coast broadcast; the Ferris State logo and mentions are featured on social media and in on-air promotions of interviews; and weekly promotion on Sonic Coast’s social media, with a minimum of one post per week.

The partnership also includes professor-hosted vignettes discussing current music industry trends with additional mentions of Ferris State.

Kwant hosts “On the Record” on Thursdays from 6 to 8 p.m. highlighting Ferris State’s Music and Entertainment Business program. The show features music, stories and information about the unique Ferris State academic program.

The university will also be highlighted, including logo and link inclusion, in the monthly Sonic Coast newsletter and on the sponsor section of the application and website.

Brian Maloney created Sonic Coast in 2014 after retiring from a corporate radio job, developing the online radio station to highlight artists from Michigan and the Great Lakes region.

Music and Entertainment Business students utilize a curriculum, hands-on opportunities, and multiple internships to develop a comprehensive understanding of the diverse music and entertainment industry. 

Students help produce live shows and other entertainment events on campus, learning all aspects of event planning, including booking artists, branding, stage setup, securing venues, and more.

The Music and Entertainment Business program celebrates its 30 year anniversary this fall.

The program was known as Music Industry Management when it debuted in 1995. The music landscape and industry have undergone significant changes in the following years, prompting the program to adapt and now includes the name change to Music and Entertainment Business. 

Ferris State’s four-year bachelor’s degree in Music and Entertainment Business stands alone in the state of Michigan as it is housed in the College of Business.

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

On Thursday, August 7, DHD#10 was notified that Ferris State University collected bacterial samples that showed unusually elevated E. coli levels from water at the Missaukee County Park Beach in Missaukee County. 

DHD#10 urges the public to not have water contact at or near this location. Water contact advisory signage has been posted and will be removed when the advisory is lifted.

When swimming or conducting other water activities during periods of high bacterial levels, the risk of becoming ill from contamination increases. Children, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems are the most at risk. Flu-like symptoms such as diarrhea, abdominal cramping, fever, and dehydration can occur from exposure to contaminated water. Upper respiratory illnesses, such as ear, nose, and throat infections, may also occur, in addition to skin infections if an open wound is not properly protected. 

Confirmation samples will continue to be collected and tested by Ferris State University. When levels have reduced, DHD#10 will notify the public that the Public Health Advisory has been lifted.

For up-to-date results, please visit EGLE’s BeachGuard site: https://mienviro.michigan.gov/explorer/beach/map/results.

_{Release information courtesy of DHD#10.}

A Flood Advisory has been issued for northwestern parts of Newaygo County until Friday, August 8 at 1 p.m.

Minor flooding in low-lying and poor drainage areas will be possible from this morning's storms. Some low-water crossings, especially near bridges, may become impassable. Locations that will experience flooding include in or around Brohman, Hawkins, and Woodville.

Turn around, don't drown when encountering flooded roads.

Stay updated with weather alerts from Big Rapids Daily News on Facebook, Instagram and X. Tune in to Big Rapids Media radio stations — Big Country 100.9 FM, Rewind 99.1 FM, Y-102 102.3 FM or NewsRadio WBRN (1460 AM, 96.5 FM, 107.7 FM) — for hourly WeatherEye forecasts.

On August 7, 2025, at 1:07 p.m., the Newaygo County Sheriff’s Office, along with the Big Prairie and Croton Township fire departments, was dispatched on the east side of Hardy Dam near Operator’s Village Day Park for a drowning incident.

Deputies and dive team members arrived within 10 minutes of the call. As deputies arrived, Big Prairie and Croton Township fire department personnel located a 24-year-old man from White Cloud underwater and were transporting him to shore.

When the man was brought to shore, he had no pulse. CPR was immediately started by local sheriff's office and fire department personnel. Life EMS arrived and assisted with lifesaving measures. The man regained a pulse and was transported to Corewell Health in Big Rapids, then via AeroMed to Corewell Health Butterworth in Grand Rapids, where he remains in critical condition as of Thursday evening.

The Sheriff’s Office was assisted by the Big Prairie Fire Department, Croton Township Fire Department, Life EMS, and Newaygo County Central Dispatch.

_{Release and photo courtesy of Newaygo County Sheriff's Office.}

The Mecosta County Sheriff's Office is seeking information regarding a recent string of automotive larcenies.

One known instance occured early Wednesday morning at a residence on 10th Avenue near Taft Road in Sheridan Township. After obtaining survellance video, the suspect was seen walking around one of the two vehicles in driveway and starting to manuever one of the doors.

If anyone has information regarding this incident, please contact Deputy Andrew Duddles at 231 592-0150. You can also leave a tip at tips@mecostasheriff.org.

_{Screenshot taken from a provided video by the Mecosta County Sheriff's Office.}

The Kent County Sheriff’s Office is seeking public assistance to find a missing girl from Osceola County.

Nevaeh Doke, 15, walked away from the Osceola Youth Center and was reported missing on July 22. Authorities believe she may be headed toward Kent County. No signs of abduction have been found.

Doke is 5 feet 7 inches tall, weighs 210 pounds, and has black hair and brown eyes. She was last seen wearing green pants and a black sweatshirt.

Anyone with information on her whereabouts should contact the Kent County Sheriff’s Office at 616-632-6100. Tips can also be submitted online at MissingKids.org.

_{Image courtesy of the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children.}

Ferris State University is one of the top four-year colleges in the nation in terms of creating dynamic pathways to support transfer students and prepare them for success, according to the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society.

Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society named 251 colleges and universities to its 2025 Transfer Honor Roll, with Ferris State being among just five Michigan public universities.

Last fall, 720 students transferred to Ferris State from other colleges and universities. More than 100 came from Kent County, with Elementary Education, Criminal Justice, and Business Administration being the most popular majors.

“Ferris State is the perfect place for transfer students ready to take the next big step in their education,” said Jeanine Ward-Roof, vice president for Student Affairs. “With hands-on, career-driven programs, small class sizes, and Student Success Hubs across Michigan, Ferris empowers students to finish strong—no matter where they began their journey.”

Links to Ferris State transfer guides, transfer scholarships, and other resources are here. 

Phi Theta Kappa is the first honor society recognizing the academic achievement of students at associate degree-granting colleges and helping them to grow as scholars and leaders.

The honor society is made up of more than 4.4 million members and nearly 1,250 chapters in 11 countries, with approximately 220,000 active members in the nation’s colleges.

The Transfer Honor Roll recognizes the importance of creating strong transfer pathways that lead to excellence and success among community college transfer students.

Honor roll placement is determined by 40 key metrics related to the support and success of transfer students, including college cost and financial aid, campus life for transfer, admission practices, and bachelor’s degree completion.

The Transfer Honor Roll was based on analysis from the National Student Clearinghouse, and on data submitted through the four-year institution’s profile on PTK Connect, Phi Theta Kappa’s online tool designed to help students find their best-fit colleges and career pathways.

Colleges completing the PTK Connect profile are given a transfer friendliness rating. The Transfer Honor Roll is chosen from among the top 25 percent highest-rated colleges.

“I’m proud of the transfer outcomes we’re seeing at these Honor Roll colleges,” said Lynn Tincher-Ladner, president and CEO of Phi Theta Kappa. “These colleges are doing more than just opening doors—they’re walking students through them. Their commitment to creating clear, supportive pathways demonstrates what’s possible when student success is truly the priority.”

Ferris State is joined on the honor roll by Central Michigan, Northern Michigan, Oakland, and Wayne State universities.

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

Monday, July 28

• An officer was called for a property damage report. It was found that the caller had backed their vehicle into a sign in a parking lot. There was only minor damage.
• An officer investigated a report of a possible motor oil leak from an oil change pan into the storm drain. The pan was empty and the matter unfounded.
• An officer was dispatched to a possible assault. Upon investigation, a 60-year-old woman was arrested for violating two conditions of her bond release. The case had been sent to the prosecutor for possible charges of assault by a 52-year-old male.
• An officer was called for a mental health pick-up order for CMH. The individual was located the next day and taken in for an evaluation.

Tuesday, July 29

• An officer was dispatched to a threat complaint. The situation was investigated and determined to be only an argument. All parties separated, and the situation had been diffused.

Wednesday, July 30

• While on patrol, an officer found two teens going through a dumpster. Both individuals were advised and verbally warned of the local curfew. The two individuals left for home without incident.
• An officer was called for a well-being check. The individual was not home on the first attempt, but the officer was able to make contact the next day with everything being okay.
• An officer was called to check on an elderly man who was thought to be in frail health, confused, and walking near traffic on a busy road. Upon arrival, the man was located and talked to. The man was not confused and showed no mental health issues. The matter was unfounded.
• An officer issued a general nuisance and dangerous structure abatement notice.

Thursday, July 31

• An officer was called for a possible unlicensed dog in a rental unit. After checking the residence, animals were not found in the residence. The matte was unfounded.

• Officers were dispatched to a structure fire. This incident is currently under investigation.

Friday, August 1

• An officer was dispatched for a suspicious person. The area was patrolled, and the individual was not located.

• An officer was dispatched for a traffic complaint of an individual throwing something into their truck bed. An investigation revealed a dirty hair brush in the bed, which is believed to have made the loud bang that the driver heard. There was no damage to the vehicle, and a report was written.

• An officer was called for an individual who was missing some keys. The investigation located an individual who was keeping the keys safe for the owner, and brought them to their owner directly.

Saturday, August 2

• An officer was dispatched to a vehicle fire. Reed City Fire was on scene and extinguished the fire. The vehicle was towed away. All damage was photographed and documented, and a report has been filed.

Sunday, August 3

• An officer was dispatched for a harassment complaint. After interviewing the individuals involved, this was determined not to be harassment but a mere misunderstanding.
• An officer was called to a complaint of subjects yelling at a homeowner as they drove by. The officer patrolled for the vehicle but was unable to locate it.

The Big Rapids City Commission unanimously approved a wastewater treatment agreement between the City of Big Rapids and Big Rapids Charter Township, effective through August 2050.

Under the agreement, the City of Big Rapids will operate and maintain its wastewater treatment plant and collection system, accept township sewage, and calibrate entry point meters. Big Rapids Charter Township will maintain its own collection system, manage inflow and infiltration entering the city’s system, and pay the city based on metered sewage flow as outlined in the User Charge Report.

“This is sort of a long time coming,” said Mark Gifford, City of Big Rapids City Manager. “We have a long term contract that every five years is analyzed. We're a little behind that, but we have been working on it for a long time. (We) appreciate the partnership we have with their townships and running our wastewater system.”

This agreement, the first since the 1995 amended contract, ensures compliance with the Federal Clean Water Act and Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy regulations.

Both parties also adopted the 2024 User Charge System Report, which raises Big Rapids Charter Township’s rate from $5.46 to $6.06 per 1,000 gallons and Green Charter Township’s rate from $5.32 to $5.99 per 1,000 gallons, effective for usage starting Aug. 1, 2025, and billed from Sept. 1, 2025.

Green Charter Township has been approached about a similar agreement but has not yet signed one.

For more information, visit the meeting agenda notes here: AUGUST 4 BIG RAPIDS COMMISSION MEETING PACKET.

Demolition of the former Self-Serve Lumber store in Reed City has begun to make way for a new Dollar General store.

The site plan for the store, at 830 S. Chestnut St., was approved by the Reed City Planning Commission on April 7. Groundbreaking for the new building is anticipated in a few weeks.

“A proposal was presented and approved by the Reed City Planning Commission earlier this year,” City Manager Rich Saladin said. “The proposed building meets all C-2 zoning requirements for the city of Reed City.”

This will be the second Dollar General store in Reed City. The other is at 4591 S. Mackinaw Trail. According to Dollar General’s public relations team, the existing location will remain open and plans for the new store have not been finalized at this time.

In February 2024, a zoning proposal for another Dollar General location near East Osceola Avenue and Chestnut Street was rejected by the Planning Commission to adhere to the city’s master plan, which prioritizes high-density housing in that area.

The sale of the Self-Serve Lumber property was reported to the Reed City Planning Commission in early March.

More details will be posted as they become available.

On Monday, Aug. 4, at 6:42 a.m., deputies from the Mecosta County Sheriff’s Office responded to a single-vehicle crash on northbound U.S. 131 near the Osceola County line.

The investigation revealed that a 70-year-old man from Evart was driving a semi-truck when it experienced equipment failure. The truck veered off the roadway into the median before crashing. The passenger, a 43-year-old man from the Chippewa Lake area, was also in the vehicle.

Both the driver and his passenger were transported by Mecosta County EMS to Big Rapids Hospital with serious but non-life-threatening injuries.

Deputies were assisted by Big Rapids Fire and Rescue, Mecosta County EMS, Currie’s Towing, Jerry’s Towing, and Meceola Central Dispatch.

Monday, July 28

Calls for Service: 33

Traffic Accidents: 1

Tuesday, July 29

• At 11:17 p.m., deputies responded to a domestic incident in Aetna Township. A male subject was arrested for Assault and Resisting & Obstructing Police. He was lodged at the Mecosta County Jail.

• At 11:38 p.m., deputies responded to a one vehicle accident in Austin Township. An additional investigation resulted in the male driver being arrested for Operating While Intoxicating and a violation for Carrying a Concealed Weapon. He was lodged at the Mecosta County Jail.

Calls for Service: 16

Traffic Accidents: 4

Wednesday, July 30

Calls for Service: 10

Traffic Accidents: 3

Thursday, July 31

Friday, August 1

• At 10:49 a.m., deputies assisted a probation/parole check at a residence in Sheridan Township. A male and female subject were arrested for Possession of Methamphetamine.
• At 1200 hours, deputies responded to a breaking and entering incident at a residence in Colfax Township. A male subject was arrested for Breaking & Entering and Resist & Obstructing Arrest.

Calls for Service: 17

Traffic Accidents: 4

Saturday, August 2

• At 2:25 a.m., deputies made a traffic stop in Green Township. The traffic stop resulted in the male driver being arrested for Operating While Intoxicated. He was lodged at the Mecosta County Jail.

• At 2:48 p.m., deputies made a warrant arrest at a residence in Aetna Township. A female subject was arrested on a warrant. She was lodged at the Mecosta County Jail.

Calls for Service: 33

Traffic Accidents: 3

Sunday, August 3

• At 6:27 p.m., deputies responded to a one vehicle crash in Colfax Township. An additional investigation resulted in the male driver being arrested for Operating While Intoxicated. He was lodged at the Mecosta County Jail.

• At 11:31 p.m., deputies responded to a suspicious call at a business in Big Rapids Township. A female subject was arrested for Possession of Methamphetamine and Resist & Obstructing Arrest. She was lodged at the Mecosta County Jail.

Calls for Service: 13

Traffic Accidents: 2

This past weekend, Reed City softball star Morgan Hammond announced her commitment to play at Ferris State University.

The junior, who was a first-team all-state selection this past season, will join head coach Jake Schumann’s squad in 2026.

“I enjoyed my visit and it’s pretty close to home,” Hammond said. “I had talked to Coach Schumann a few times and I know his program is all about winning. I know we are going to get the job done.

Offensively in 2025, Hammond broke several school records including registering a .592 batting average and a 1.183 slugging percentage over 37 games this season. She also notched her name into the MHSAA record books with 67 runs scored and 71 hits this year.

Hammond also showed flashes behind the plate defensively, throwing out 20 base runners. She gave a lot of credit to Reed City head coach Roger Steig and how the team prepares for each contest.

"I am excited for both Morgan and Ferris State," Steig said. "Morgan has shattered most of our school records both offensively and defensively with one more season to go. When the game is on the line, you want the situation to be in her hands. There is no question she will be a huge asset to the Ferris State Softball program. She brings a lot of energy and talent."

Ferris State finished last season 28-21, their highest win under Coach Schumann since his arrival in 2023. The team also competed in their first NCAA Tournament since 2013.

When asked about Hammond, Schumann sees her as great fit for the program both on and off the field.

"Anytime we can get local talent that has the ability to contribute, it’s exciting," Schmann said. "Morgan is an athlete by every sense of the word. Not only does she have the ability to come in and compete, but she’s going to also elevate everyone around her with her work ethic. By all accounts, we are getting a great athlete and a great family to join Bulldog Nation."

Hammond says she currently plans to study exercise science, a new program at Ferris State that kickstarts this fall.

_{Image courtesy of Morgan Hammond.} 

_{Edited on Monday, August 4 at 12:10 p.m. for added quote from Roger Steig.}

On Saturday, August 2, at 3:55 p.m., deputies from the Mecosta County Sheriff's Office were dispatched to a one-vehicle accident on 90^th Avenue and Grant Road in Morton Township.

The investigation found that a 76-year-old male from Mecosta was travelling southbound on 90^th Avenue, when he started to have a medical emergency. His vehicle went off the east side of the roadway and struck several trees. He suffered non-life-threatening injuries and was transported to Corewell Hospital in Big Rapids for treatment. 

Deputies were assisted on scene by Mecosta County EMS and Morton Township Fire and Rescue units.

Ferris State University and Bulldog Athletics are launching a fundraising campaign to name the ice sheet inside the Ewigleben Ice Arena in honor of former hockey head coach and legend Bob Daniels.

Once the fundraising goal is met, the ice sheet will be renamed the Bob Daniels Ice Rink in honor of Daniels' lasting impact on the Ferris State hockey program, its players and those who built successful careers in the hockey world and beyond.

Funds will be used to support the Ferris State hockey players and program.

The Bulldogs are honoring Daniels on Friday, Aug. 1 with a reception and retirement event at the David L. Eisler Center, 805 Campus Drive starting at 6 p.m. The event is free and open to the public with the program starting at approximately 6:45 p.m.

Daniels retired this summer after serving 36 years in the Bulldog program, including 33 seasons as the head coach. He concluded his career with 510 wins, ranking among the top 20 all-time in college hockey and was a two-time National Coach of the Year Award recipient.

The college hockey icon led the Bulldogs to all four NCAA Tournament appearances in school history, including a historic trip to the 2012 NCAA Division I Frozen Four and a berth in the national championship game.

Bulldog alumni and donors along with fans and supporters are encouraged to donate to this special cause in honor of Coach Daniels.

Donations can be made online here.

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

Starting Monday, the Maple Street Bridge in Big Rapids will be closed due to repairs on a broken water main.

The break occurred last week on Maple Street near Ives Avenue. Timetable of completion is unknown.

The closure will span from Stewart Avenue to Third Avenue. The eastbound bridge crossing detour will be from State Street to Baldwin Street to 4th Avenue to Maple Street. The westbound bridge crossing detour will be from Maple Street to Bjornson Street to Milton Avenue to Baldwin Street to State Street.

Updates will be posted on the City of Big Rapids Facebook page. 

To see the City of Big Rapids' detour road map, click here: DETOUR MAP.

For the live MDOT Drive Map, click here: https://mdotjboss.state.mi.us/MiDrive/map#.

The Big Rapids City Commission will meet on Monday, August 4, at Big Rapids City Hall to discuss a several items.

General business items include resolutions for the following: 

• Approving the Wastewater Treatment Agreement between the City of Big Rapids and Big Rapids Charter Township.
• Approving the purchase of wetland credits and surety bond for the Roben Hood Airport Extension Project.
• Appointing an official representative to the Michigan Municipal League annual meeting.
• Amending the contract with Republic Services.
• Amending fiscal year 2025/2026 carryforwards and fiscal year 2024/2025 general appropriations
• Accepting the 2024 Big Rapids Wastewater User Charge System Report

The meeting will also include a study session on secondary logo concepts for the City of Big Rapids, featuring Communications Coordinator Steve Gove.

All city commission meetings are available to the public and streamed on the City of Big Rapids YouTube channel. Sart time of the meeting is 6:30 p.m.

Defending NCAA Division II National Champion Ferris State University has been picked to repeat in the Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference as the league announced its 2025 GLIAC Football preseason poll.

The Bulldogs, who finished first in the conference with an unbeaten 7-0 league mark a year ago, tallied 47 points and six first-place votes in balloting by the GLIAC's member head coaches.

Ferris State was followed in the preseason poll by rival Grand Valley State University in second place with 41 points and a single first-place mention. Saginaw Valley State University garnered the final first-place vote and totaled 38 points in finishing third of the eight conference member schools.

The remaining teams in the preseason rankings included Davenport University in fourth (31), Michigan Tech University in fifth (28) with Wayne State University in sixth (16), Roosevelt University in seventh (12) and Northern Michigan University in eighth (11).

Ferris State enters the 2025 season having won three of the past four NCAA Division II National Championships, including last fall. The team was chosen first already in the 2025 Lindy's Sports D2 Preseason National Rankings.

The Bulldogs will begin their 116th season of varsity competition this coming fall with their sights set on making a nation-leading 11th consecutive trip to the NCAA Division II Playoffs.

The Bulldogs have made six national semifinal appearances along with four trips to the national championship game, highlighted by back-to-back national titles in 2021 and 2022 along with last year in 2024 during the stretch.

Over the past four seasons of action, the Bulldogs have a 50-5 overall record and Ferris State has reached the NCAA Division II Playoffs 10 consecutive years and counting. Ferris State has also reached the NCAA Division II National Semifinals six times in the past eight seasons of action and ranks as the country's winningest program over the past 10 full seasons in D2 Football.

Ferris State is 77-7 over the last five seasons of on-field action, including back-to-back NCAA DII National Championships in 2021 and 2022 and 2024.

Ferris State also holds the GLIAC's best mark and the best overall record of all collegiate programs in Michigan at 137-21 (.867) overall since the arrival of Tony Annese as head coach in 2012.

The Bulldogs will open the 2025 season at home, hosting Pittsburg State University from Kansas in a DII National Showdown on Thursday, Aug. 28, at Top Taggart Field. Kickoff is set for 6 p.m.

Season tickets for the 2025 season are on sale now and can be purchased online at FerrisStateBulldogs.com/Tickets.

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

On Thursday, July 31, 2025, at 5:45 p.m., the Reed City and Hersey Township fire departments were dispatched to the 200 block of South Higbee Street for a reported structure fire.

Upon arriving on scene, firefighters found a two-story triplex with a well engulfed basement fire. Both units were able to contain the fire to the basement. No injuries were reported and the cause of the fire has not been confirmed at this time. The scene was turned over to the Reed City Police Department and Michigan State Police Fire Investigation Unit.

Assisting agencies on scene included Lincoln Township Fire, Big Rapids Fire, Osceola County EMS, Meceola Central Dispatch, Reed City Police, Reed City Department of Public Works, Consumers Energy, and Reed City Towing.