The former Video City location in Big Rapids is being transformed into a new at-cost grocery store.

A group of St. Peter's Lutheran Church members, along with Common Good Ventures, are heading the project at 816 Maple Street. The store will be named "Market on Maple."

"St. Peter's purchased the building with the intention of renovating it," Rev. Tyson Bentz said. "Some members of Common Good Ventures started from people from the church, so it's a collaboration. We are renovating the building, then give the space to Common Good (Ventures) to run the grocery store." 

The building is currently in remodeling stages, with a new peaked roof being the current task. According to Bentz, the group is targeting an opening in Spring 2027.

For the store's model, the group isn't looking to make a high profit; instead, they want to make it an at-cost grocery store.

"Our aim with this partnership is create a grocery store that can lower grocery costs for the middle class and A.L.I.C.E working families," Bentz said. "By offsetting operating costs with a volunteer crew of people from the area and a rental in the back portion of the renovated building, we will be able to offer core groceries at cost. The only addition is something like a five cents to cover payment transactions. One point is to retain the dignity of shoppers by not giving away groceries, instead creating a lower-cost option for people already working hard to care for themselves and their families.

When asked about the idea, Bentz said the inspiration came from a church visit in Midland and his previous experience with Feed America.

"I've personally had this idea since COVID," Bentz said. "One of the things that kind of bothered us (with Feed America giveaways) was how many people came through and kind of didn't enjoy the experience. (With this store), we're not interested in just giving out things for free in that regard. We want to help people do more with what they've earned. And it's really cool to have a whole group of people helping support it."

St. Peter's has shared the progress of the store at various services this year already. Contact them for additional information on supporting the store.

In a formal release on Thursday, the MHSAA announced that Grand Rapids Catholic Central has been removed from the football postseason.

The ruling comes after findings that the school used an ineligible player during six of the team’s regular-season games. Five victories were consequently forfeited, putting the team below the requirements to reach the postseason.

“Throughout the investigation, Grand Rapids Catholic Central’s administration has been fully cooperative and highly professional,” MHSAA Executive Director Mark Uyl said.

Catholic Central published a release on Thursday night outlining the school’s disappointment in the timing of the issue. The release said the student-athlete enrolled at the school in January and was confirmed eligible in August after his family moved out of the previous school district. The former school filed an official complaint, which the MHSAA found unsupported in May.

The MHSAA contacted the school on Oct. 15, outlining an additional investigation after new findings regarding the athlete’s former residence. GRCC held the player out of competition during the final two weeks of the season while the association’s review continued.

“Last Friday, the MHSAA informed us that an investigation related to the student-athlete’s eligibility would continue, but our team was cleared to participate in the postseason,” GRCC said in a release. “We are in disbelief that this decision was issued today, just over 24 hours before kicking off the postseason. Catholic Central intends to appeal this decision through the established MHSAA process."

Catholic Central finished the regular season 7-2, accumulating 65.194 playoff points and securing the top spot in Division 5. Because of the decision, Comstock Park, which was scheduled to face the Cougars on Friday, will advance to the district final to face the winner of No. 4 Berrien Springs or No. 5 Lake Odessa Lakewood.

The Cougars have won six state titles since 2016 across Division 4 and Division 5 and had won nine straight regional championships prior to last season.

Local Division 5 teams, including Reed City, Tri County and Chippewa Hills, would have faced the winner of Catholic Central’s region in the state semifinal. Rankings now suggest No. 2 Grand Rapids West Catholic or No. 3 Hopkins would be the new favorites to win the region following GRCC’s removal.

On Friday evening, Kuzin’s Equipment in Morley will host a Halloween-themed event.

From 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., families and children can enjoy a safely fenced-in trick-or-treat area, bounce houses, tractors, fire trucks and other fun activities. Food and drink vendors will also be on site.

“Everyone does the trunk-or-treat, so we wanted to do something different,” Kuzin’s Equipment owner Charlie Walch said. “The kids will be able to see fire trucks, a food truck and lots of candy.”

Kuzin’s Equipment is located at 519 North Cass Street in Morley, just north of downtown.

“Halloween is our favorite time of year,” Walch said. “It’s all about bringing the community together to have a free, safe event to enjoy.”

The event is also presented by Big Country 100.9, Felde Realty, Biller Insurance and Homeworks Connect.

To follow the event live, listen to Big Country 100.9 FM and WWBR.com between 4:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. You can also follow their Facebook page for more information here: BIG COUNTRY 100.9 FACEBOOK PAGE.

It's time for the General Election this November! For those living in Newaygo County, see our voting guide below to help you know what's going to be on the ballot.

NEWAYGO COUNTY BALLOT GUIDE

Date: Tuesday, November 3

Polling Hours: 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Additional Resources:

• POLLING PLACE
• EARLY VOTING INFO
• GENERAL VOTING INFO

*STATE OFFICIALS*

State Governor & Lieutenant Governor (1)

All TWPs and Cities

• Jocelyn Benson & Winnie Brinks, Democrat

• John James & Jay DeBoyer, Republican

• Anthony Hudson & Beau Parmenter, Libertarian

• Donna Brandenburg & Robert Cowper II, U.S. Taxpayers

• Douglas Campbell & Bobbie Clay, Green

Secretary of State (1)

All TWPs and Cities

• Garlin Gilchrist II, Democrat

• Anthony Forlini, Republican

• Christine Sloan, Libertarian

• Scott Aughney, U.S. Taxpayers

• Eric Borregard, Green

Attorney General (1)

All TWPs and Cities

• Eli Savit, Democrat

• Doug Lloyd, Republican

• Jason Dye, Libertarian

• John Perry Ludtke Jr., U.S. Taxpayers

• Jeff Polonowski, Green

• Doug Dern, Natural Law

*CONGRESSIONAL OFFICIALS*

U.S. Senator (1)

All TWPs and Cities

• Abdul El-Sayed, Democrat

• Mike Rogers, Republican

• Lydia Christensen, Libertarian

• Tim Long, U.S. Taxpayers

• Douglas Marsh, Green

• Walter Kristy, Natural Law

U.S. Congress - 2nd District (1)

All TWPs and Cities

• Ben Ambrose, Democrat

• John Moolenaar, Republican*^INC

• Charlotte Magoon, Green

• Richard Sills, Natural Law

State Senator - 33rd District (1)

All TWPs and Cities

• Stan Opal, Democrat

• Gina Johnsen, Republican

State Representative - 101st District (1)

All TWPs and Cities

• Christopher Crain, Democrat

• Jaxon Deur, Republican

*STATE EDUCATIONAL OFFICIALS*

State Board of Education (2)

All TWPs and Cities

• Judith Pritchett, Democrat

• Tiffany Tilley, Democrat

• Terence Collins, Republican

• Bree Moeggenberg, Republican

• Charles Essner, Libertarian

• William Mohr II, U.S. Taxpayers

• Christine Schwartz, U.S. Taxpayers

• Wissam Charafeddine, Green

• Mary Anne Hering, Working Class

• Kelli Monroe, Natural Law

Regent of the University of Michigan (2)

All TWPs and Cities

• Paul Brown, Democrat

• Amir Makled, Democrat

• Lena Epstein, Republican

• Michael Schostak, Republican

• Andrew Chadderdon, Libertarian

• Kyle Maas, U.S. Taxpayers

Trustee of Michigan State University (2)

All TWPs and Cities

• Brianna Scott, Democrat

• Kelly Tebay Zemke, Democrat

• Julie Maday, Republican

• Roger Victory, Republican

• Daniel Patterson, Libertarian

• Will Tyler White, Libertarian

• Janet Sanger, U.S. Taxpayers

• John Sanger, U.S. Taxpayers

• John Anthony La Pietra, Green

• Yaz Ozbek, Working Class

Govenor of Wayne State University (2)

All TWPs and Cities

• Shereef Akeel, Democrat

• Richard Mack, Democrat

• Andy Anuzis, Republican

• Christa Murphy, Republican

• Alex Avery, Libertarian

• Jami Van Alstine, Libertarian

• Jeff McDonald, U.S. Taxpayers

• Paul Ragan, Green

• Suzanne Roehrig, Working Class

• Kathleen Oakford, Natural Law

*JUDICIAL OFFICIALS*

Justice of Supreme Court (2)

All TWPs and Cities

• Megan Kathleen Cavanagh*^INC

• Noah P. Hood*^INC

• Thomas W. Howe

• Casandra Morse-Bills

• Michael Warren

• Jody White

Judge of Court of Appeals - District (2)

All TWPs and Cities

• Mark Boonstra*^INC

• Daniel Korobkin*^INC

Judge of 78th Circuit Court (1)

All TWPs and Cities

• Ellsworth Stay Jr.

*CITY, TOWNSHIP, & VILLAGE OFFICIALS*

Barton Township Clerk (1)

Barton TWP

• No candidates on ballot.

Big Prarie Township Park Commissioner (3)

Big Prarie TWP

• Timothy Polasek, Republican

• Edward C. Rubringer, Republican

Bridgeton Township Treasurer (1)

Bridgeton TWP

• Charity Jimenez, Republican (partial term until 12/01/28)

Bridgeton Township Trustee (1)

Bridgeton TWP

• Kathleen Clough, Republican (partial term until 12/01/28)

Denver Township Clerk (1)

Denver TWP

• Nicki McWilliams, Republican (partial term until 12/01/28)

Denver Township Treasurer (1)

Denver TWP

• Sherrilee Craner, Democrat (partial term until 12/01/28)

City of Fremont Mayor (1)

City of Fremont

• Phil Deur

• Dawn C. Finch

• Rod Glupker

City of Fremont Council Member (2)

City of Fremont

• Eric Johnson

• Marla Kolk

• Dan Powell

Goodwell Township Clerk (1)

Goodwell TWP

• Leona Harvey, Republican (partial term until 12/01/28)

Village of Hesperia President (1)

Denver TWP

• Mike Farber

Village of Hesperia Trustee (3)

Denver TWP

• Don Bostrom

• Danny E. Herin

• Joyce McDonald

Home Township Clerk (1)

Home TWP

• Theresa Ouderkirk, Republican (partial term until 12/01/28)

Home Township Trustee (1)

Home TWP

• Austin Snyder, Republican (partial term until 12/01/28)

Merrill Township Supervisor RECALL (1)

Merrill TWP

• Shain Routley, Democrat (partial term until 12/01/28)

• Peter Morgan, Republican (partial term until 12/01/28)

Merrill Township Trustee (1)

Merrill TWP

• Charles Dryer, Republican (partial term until 12/01/28)

Monroe Township Supervisor (1)

Monroe TWP

• Jacob Bills, Republican (partial term until 12/01/28)

Monroe Township Clerk (1)

Monroe TWP

• Gabriela Urbane, Republican (partial term until 12/01/28)

City of Newaygo Mayor (1)

City of Newaygo

• Ed Fedell

City of Newaygo Council Member (3)

City of Newaygo

• Denise DeVries

• Jim Engemann

• Robert Walker Jr.

Sheridan Charter Township Trustee (1)

Sheridan Charter TWP

• Theodore Rancour, Democrat (partial term until 12/01/28)

Troy Township Treasurer (1)

Troy TWP

• Susan Hollar, Democrat (partial term until 12/01/28)

City of White Cloud Mayor (1)

City of White Cloud

• Brian J. Miller

• Lori L. Shears

City of White Cloud Council Member (3)

City of White Cloud

• Amy S. Barnhard

• Adam Chiles

• Chad S. Fetterley

• Brendan Gray

• Jeffery Murchison

*LOCAL EDUCATIONAL OFFICIALS*

Baldwin Community Schools Board Member (3)

Lilley TWP, Merrill TWP

• Joseph W Brooks Jr

• Diamond Burrell

• Mary Ann Pieske

Big Jackson School District Board Member (2)

Barton TWP, Home TWP, Merrill TWP, Monroe TWP, Norwich TWP

• Ross Fulton

• Michelle Ruelle

Big Rapids Public School District Board Member (2)

Barton TWP, Goodwell TWP, Monroe TWP, Norwich TWP

• Pete Kent

• Jeremy Mishler

Cedar Springs Public School District Board Member (4)

Ensley TWP

• Heidi Armock

• Richard Bell

• Mistie Bowser

• Jenna Hess

• Alexandra I. Hudson

• April Patin

• AnneMarie Slater

• Brent Willett (partial term until 12/31/28)* ^{seperate from 4-year}

Fremont Public Schools Board Member (1 each)

Ashland TWP, Bridgeton TWP, Brooks TWP, Dayton TWP, Denver TWP, City of Fremont, Garfield TWP, Lincoln TWP, Sheridan Charter TWP, Sherman TWP

• Steven Paulsen

• Matthew Goebel (partial term until 12/31/28)

Grand Rapids Community College Board of Trustees Member (2)

Ensley TWP, Grant TWP

• Jamie Gordon

• Brandy Lovelady Mitchell

• Tim Russ

• Adriana Almanza (partial term until 12/31/30)* ^{seperate from 6-year}

Grant Public Schools Board Member (3)

Ashland TWP, Bridgeton TWP, Ensley TWP, Garfield TWP, City of Grant, Grant TWP

• Ken Longstreet

• Jason McKinley

• Tami Roeters

Hesperia Community Schools Board Member (3)

Beaver TWP, Denver TWP

• Barbara Maynard

• M. Scott Rumsey

• Ryan Good (partial term until 12/1/30)* ^{seperate from 6-year}

Holton Public Schools District Board Member (3)

Bridgeton TWP, Dayton TWP

• Amy M. Brookhouse

• Sarah Hippler

• Andy O'Riley

• Eric Rothoff

Kent City Community Schools District Board Member (3)

Grant TWP

• Glenn A. Crabtree

• Rick Stockhill

• Sandra Vanderhyde-Volkers

Montcalm Community College Board of Trustees Member (2)

Croton TWP, Ensley TWP

• Robert Byram

• Joshua Stamp

Morley Stanwood Community Schools Board Member (4)

Big Prarie TWP, Goodwell TWP

• Greg Babbitt (4-year term)
• Emily J. Bongard (4-year term)
• Mary L. Engelsman (4-year term)
• Matthias Stevens (4-year term)
• Michelle R. Frisbie (6-year term)* ^{seperate from 4-year}

Muskegon Oakridge Public Schools District Board Member (3)

Bridgeton TWP

• Douglas DeWitte

• Jeff Kartes

• Craig A. Scott

• Roger Lee Taylor

Newaygo Public Schools Board Member (2)

Ashland TWP, Big Prarie TWP, Brooks TWP, Croton TWP, Everett TWP, Garfield TWP, Grant TWP, City of Newaygo

• Janet Breen

• John Bull

• Chris Cronk

• Steve Cronk

• Bruce Gracik

• Erica Herwig

Reed City Area Public Schools Board Member (3)

Barton TWP

• Troy Alan Bowling (4-year term)
• Jamie Eichenberg (4-year term)
• Christine Mund (4-year term)
• Dustin Robbins (4-year term)
• Maggie M. Walcott (partial term until 12/1/28)* ^{seperate from 4-year}

Tri County Area Schools Board Member (2)

Croton TWP, Ensley TWP

• Heather J. Shadley

West Shore Community College Board of Trustees Member (4)

Beaver TWP, Troy TWP

• Daniel LaMore
• Thomas Voss

Walkerville Schools Board Member (4)

Beaver TWP, Troy TWP

• John Kirwin

• Albert Tanner

• Michelle Tanner

• George Wolgamott

• Janaya Hood (partial term until 12/31/28)* ^{seperate from 4-year}

• Mark Riggs (partial term until 12/31/28)* ^{seperate from 4-year}

White Cloud Public Schools Board Member (2 full & 1 partial)

Big Prarie TWP, Denver TWP, Everett TWP, Goodwell TWP, Lincoln TWP, Merrill TWP, Monroe TWP, Norwich TWP, Sherman TWP, City of White Cloud, Wilcox TWP

• Jim Jones

• Harry Stevens

• Keri Collins (partial term until 12/31/30)* ^{seperate from 6-year}

• Victoria Nader (partial term until 12/31/30)* ^{seperate from 6-year}

*STATE & COUNTY PROPOSALS*

Proposal 2026-1: Convene A Constitutional Convention For The Purpose Of Drafting A General Revision Of The State Constitution?

All TWPs and Cities

• Shall a convention of elected delegates be convened in 2027 to draft a general revision of the State Constitution for presentation to the state’s voters for their approval or rejection?

Proposal 2026-2: Proposed Law To Prohibit Campaign Contributions From Certain Regulated Utilities And Government Contractors And Apply Campaign Finance Laws And Regulations To Additional Types Of Political Communications?

All TWPs and Cities

• Prohibit regulated electric and gas utilities, contractors with over $250,000 annually in government contracts, and people and organizations with substantial connections to these utilities/contractors from making direct or indirect campaign contributions to those who run for or hold offices that impact them. 

• Expand laws regulating spending on political communications, including those requiring disclosing donor information, to apply to communications clearly identifying candidates or ballot questions, even if they do not expressly advocate voting for/against them. 

• Expressly apply the law requiring disclosure of who paid for political communications to internet political communications. 

• Should this proposal be adopted?

Newaygo County Veterans' Services Millage Renewal Proposal

All TWPs and Cities

• Shall the County of Newaygo, Michigan, be authorized to levy annually an amount not to exceed 0.0940 mill ($0.0940 per each $1,000 of taxable value), which is a renewal of the millage rate that expires in 2027, against all taxable property within Newaygo County for a period of ten (10) years, 2028 through 2037, inclusive, for the purpose of providing funds for any veterans’ services authorized by law? The estimate of the revenue Newaygo County will collect if the millage is approved and levied in the first year (2028) is approximately $226,000. By law, a portion of the revenue collected may be subject to capture by the Downtown Development Authorities of the Cities of Fremont, Newaygo, and White Cloud; the Local Development Financing Authorities of the Cities of Fremont and Newaygo; and the Newaygo County Brownfield Redevelopment Authority.

*CITY, TOWNSHIP, & SCHOOL PROPOSALS*

Big Jackson School District Operating Millage Proposal

Barton TWP, Home TWP, Merrill TWP, Monroe TWP, Norwich TWP

• This proposal will allow the school district to levy the statutory rate of not to exceed 18 mills on all property, except principal residence and other property exempted by law, required for the school district to receive its revenue per pupil foundation allowance.

• Shall the limitation on the amount of taxes which may be assessed against all property, except principal residence and other property exempted by law, in Big Jackson Public Schools, Newaygo County, Michigan, be increased by 1.1934 mill ($1.1934 on each $1,000 of taxable valuation) for a period of 9 years, 2026 to 2034, inclusive, to provide funds for operating purposes; the estimate of the revenue the school district will collect if the millage is approved and levied in 2026 is approximately $3,127 (this millage is to restore millage lost as a result of the reduction required by the Michigan Constitution of 1963)?

Big Prarie Township Marijuana Ordinance Proposal

Big Prarie TWP

• This proposal, if approved, would amend the Big Prairie Township Recreational Marijuana Establishments Licensing Ordinance, Ordinance No. 2022-004, adopted June 14, 2022, to authorize, in addition to the other marijuana establishments authorized under that ordinance, not more than one (1) adult-use designated marijuana consumption establishment to operate within the Township at any one time, provided the establishment is licensed by the Michigan Cannabis Regulatory Agency, or its successor, in accordance with the Michigan Regulation and Taxation of Marihuana Act and relevant municipal regulations.

• Shall the proposal be adopted?

Big Prarie Township Park Commission Dissolution Proposal

Big Prarie TWP

• Shall the Big Prairie Township Park Commission be dissolved, with all the powers, duties, assets, and liabilities of the Park Commission transferred to the Township Board?

Everett Township Fire Protection and First Reponder Service Millage Proposal

Everett TWP

• Shall Everett Township increase the tax rate limitation imposed under Article IX, Section 6 of the Michigan Constitution and levy a new additional millage of 0.75 mills ($0.75 per $1,000 of taxable value) on taxable property within Everett Township annually for two (2) years, 2026 through 2027, inclusive, for the purpose of funding fire protection and Medical First Response services in the Township? If approved and levied, this millage would raise an estimated $55,818 in the first year of the levy.

Lincoln Township Fire Protection and First Reponder Service Millage Proposal

Everett TWP

• Shall Lincoln Township increase the tax rate limitation imposed under Article IX, Section 6 of the Michigan Constitution and levy a new additional millage of 0.75 mills ($0.75 per $1,000 of taxable value) on taxable property within Lincoln Township annually for two (2) years, 2026 through 2027, inclusive, for the purpose of funding Fire Protection and Medical First Response services in the Township? If approved and levied, this millage would raise an estimated $47,628.00 in the first year of the levy.

Wilcox Township Fire Protection and First Reponder Service Millage Proposal

Wilcox TWP

• Shall Wilcox Township increase the tax rate limitation imposed under Article IX, Section 6 of the Michigan Constitution and levy a new additional millage of 0.75 mills ($0.75 per $1,000 of taxable value) on taxable property within Wilcox Township annually for two (2) years, 2026 through 2027, inclusive, for the purpose of funding fire protection and medical first responder services in the Township? If approved and levied, this millage would raise an estimated $29,690 in the first year of levy.

Reed City Area Public School District Bond Proposal

Barton TWP

• Shall Reed City Area Public Schools, Osceola, Mecosta, Newaygo and Lake Counties, Michigan, borrow the sum of not to exceed Ten Million Seven Hundred Eighty Thousand Dollars ($10,780,000) and issue its general obligation unlimited tax bonds therefor, in one or more series, for the purpose of: 

• Remodeling and re-equipping school buildings and facilities; and preparing, developing, improving and equipping structures, sites and lighting at the high school athletic field? 

• The estimated millage that will be levied for the proposed bonds in 2027 is 0.20 mill ($0.20 on each $1,000 of taxable valuation) for a -0- mill net increase over the prior year’s levy. The maximum number of years the bonds of any series may be outstanding, exclusive of any refunding, is nine (9) years. The estimated simple average annual millage anticipated to be required to retire this bond debt is 1.83 mills ($1.83 on each $1,000 of taxable valuation). 

• The school district does not expect to borrow from the State to pay debt service on the bonds. The total amount of qualified bonds currently outstanding is $2,260,000. The total amount of qualified loans currently outstanding is $0. The estimated computed millage rate may change based on changes in certain circumstances. 

• (Pursuant to State law, expenditure of bond proceeds must be audited and the proceeds cannot be used for repair or maintenance costs, teacher, administrator or employee salaries, or other operating expenses.)

Tri County Area Schools District Operating Millage Proposal

Croton TWP, Ensley TWP

• This proposal will replace expiring millage and allow the school district to continue to levy the statutory rate of not to exceed 20 mills on all property, except principal residence and other property exempted by law, required for the school district to receive its revenue per pupil foundation allowance. The remaining 2 mills are only available to be levied to restore millage lost as a result of the reduction required by the Michigan Constitution of 1963 and will only be levied to the extent necessary to restore that reduction.

• Shall the limitation on the amount of taxes which may be assessed against all property, except principal residence and other property exempted by law, in Tri County Area Schools, Montcalm, Kent and Newaygo Counties, Michigan, be increased by 20 mills ($20.00 on each $1,000 of taxable valuation) for a period of 4 years, 2027 to 2030, to provide funds for operating purposes; the estimate of the revenue the school district will collect if the millage is approved and 18 mills are levied in 2027 is approximately $3,377,472 (this millage replaces millage that will expire with the 2026 tax levy)?

Tri County Area Schools Sinking Fund Millage Proposal

Croton TWP, Ensley TWP

• Shall the limitation on the amount of taxes which may be assessed against all property in Tri County Area Schools, Montcalm, Kent and Newaygo Counties, Michigan, be increased by and the board of education be authorized to levy not to exceed 1.5 mills ($1.50 on each $1,000 of taxable valuation) for a period of 10 years, 2026 to 2035, inclusive, to create a sinking fund for the construction or repair of school buildings, including career-technical spaces and workforce readiness spaces; for school security improvements; for the acquisition or upgrading of technology; for the acquisition of student transportation vehicles; for the acquisition of parts, supplies, and equipment used for the maintenance of student transportation vehicles; for the acquisition of eligible trucks and vans used to carry parts, equipment, and personnel for or in the maintenance of school buildings; for the acquisition of parts, supplies, and equipment used to maintain such trucks and vans; and all other purposes authorized by law; the estimate of the revenue the school district will collect if the millage is approved and levied in 2026 is approximately $11,101,859?

Ferris State University closed three pedestrian crossings near the Timme Center for Student Services, the Center for Virtual Learning and Hallisy Hall after crews fenced the Hallisy Hall site Oct. 22 ahead of the building’s demolition.

Pedestrians now cross through the Robinson Quad. New crosswalk markings and signs guide foot traffic between Parking Lot 5H, Stadium Hall and nearby campus destinations.

A route accessible under the Americans with Disabilities Act follows the west side of Campus Drive from the Center for Virtual Learning to the Timme Center for Student Services.

Crews begin removing hazardous materials during the week of Oct. 26, and demolition starts Dec. 21. A second phase will add a parking lot and road improvements, closing more roads and sidewalks beginning in March 2027. The university expects to finish the project by July 2027.

“Demolishing Hallisy removes one of our older buildings to create additional parking,” said Karen Simmon, project manager for Facilities Management. “It will also create safer pedestrian walkways by minimizing vehicular and pedestrian interactions at this busy area of campus.”

The fencing does not affect vehicle traffic. Drivers should use extra caution on South Street, Stadium Drive, Campus Drive and West Drive, which construction trucks use to reach and leave the site.

Facilities Management asks pedestrians to follow detour signs, use only marked crosswalks and walkways, stay out of the fenced area and allow extra travel time. Direct questions to Facilities Management at 231-591-2920.

This Saturday is the annual Big Rapids downtown Fall Fest event, put on by the Downtown Business Association and RE/MAX Together.

Here are 10 essential tips to prepare for the festivities:

1. Temperatures will be on the cooler side.
   • Starting around 10 a.m., conditions will be in the low 40s and gradually increase towards the 50s by 2 p.m. Skies project to be cloudy and a slim chain of rain is possible.
2. Michigan Avenue will be blocked off.
   • Michigan Avenue will be closed between Linden Street and Grand Traverse Street from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Parking will be available on nearby streets and in adjacent lots.
3. The Skeleton Skurry 5K starts at 10 a.m.
   • The Skeleton Skurry 5K run/walk/roll begins at 10 a.m. near City Hall, with the course starting and finishing at the same location. Registration fees support Angels of Action. Prizes will be awarded to the top three finishers and for the best costume. Online registration is $33.85.
4. There will be a competitive pumpkin roll.
   • A pumpkin roll competition will take place at 11 a.m. near the Elks Lodge to benefit local nonprofits. The first-place winner receives a trophy and $500 to donate to the charity they represent; second place receives $350 and third place receives $150 for their chosen organizations.
5. Bring a team to pull a bus for charity.
   • The Mecosta Osceola Transit Authority and Area 5 Special Olympians will host a pull-a-bus charity event beginning at 10 a.m. in the City Hall parking lot. The cost is $25 per person or $250 for a team of up to 10. The team that pulls the bus 50 feet in the fastest time will receive a trophy.
6. Candy will be given out trunk-or-treat style.
   • Local businesses and organizations will distribute candy in a trunk-or-treat format along Michigan Avenue from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.
7. There will be games and kids inflatables on site.
   • The kids' fun area returns, like years past, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Michigan Avenue. There will be inflatables and festive games for kids and the whole family to participate.
8. Downtown businesses will be open.
   • Various doors will be open for food, retail, and shopping during the four-hour time period. Some stores may have seasonal or special day discounts.
9. Pie eating contest slated at 1 p.m.
   • A competitive pie-eating contest, hosted by RE/MAX, is scheduled for 1 p.m. Participants must eat their pies as quickly as possible without using their hands.
10. Food trucks and vendors will be present.
    • Other vendors and food trucks will be on Michigan Avenue between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. with various festive foods and other goods.

Monday, October 19

• An officer was requested by an Osceola County Sheriff's Deputy to assist with a theft investigation. 
• An officer was dispatched to investigate a two-vehicle property crash that injured three people. 

Tuesday, October 20

• An officer stopped a subject for a traffic violation. The subject was arrested for a warrant and the vehicle was turned over to a family member.

Wednesday, October 21

• An officer was dispatched to investigate a two-vehicle crash with property damage.
• An officer was dispatched to investigate a single-vehicle crash involving a deer.
• An officer assisted the Evart Fire Department with a hazmat incident.
• An officer assisted the Evart Fire Department with a medical call.

Thursday, October 22

• No incidents reported.

Friday, October 23

• An officer received found property. It is being held until contact can be made with the owner.

• An officer was dispatched to investigate an incident on private property with damage.

• An officer was dispatched to a threat's complaint.  While investigating, the officer determined that a Domestic Assault had taken place. The subject was arrested and lodged on multiple offenses.  

• An Osceola County Sheriff's Deputy requested assistance from the K-9 unit regarding a narcotics search.

Saturday, October 24

• An officer was dispatched to investigate a fail to pay at a local business.  

• An officer was dispatched to investigate an animal complaint.

Sunday, October 25

• An officer was dispatched to investigate a suspicious situation with a juvenile.

Monday, Oct. 19

• No arrests reported.

Calls for Service: 16

Traffic Accidents: 8

Tuesday, Oct. 20

• At 8:08 p.m., deputies made a traffic stop in Mecosta Township. The traffic stop resulted in the female driver being arrested for Possession of Methamphetamine and other warrants. She was lodged at the Mecosta County Jail.

Calls for Service: 10

Traffic Accidents: 2

Wednesday, Oct. 21

• No arrests reported.

Calls for Service: 0

Traffic Accidents: 0

Thursday, Oct. 22

• No arrests reported.

Calls for Service: 12

Traffic Accidents: 4

Friday, Oct. 23

• At 8:30 p.m., deputies made a traffic stop in Colfax Township. The traffic stop resulted in the male driver being arrested for Operating While Intoxicated and Child Endangerment. He was lodged at the Mecosta County Jail.

Calls for Service: 15

Traffic Accidents: 4

Saturday, Oct. 24

• No arrests reported.

Calls for Service: 2

Traffic Accidents: 6

Sunday, Oct. 25

• No arrests reported.

Calls for Service: 7

Traffic Accidents: 6

It's time for the General Election this November! For those living in Osceola County, see our voting guide below to help you know what's going to be on the ballot.

OSCEOLA COUNTY BALLOT GUIDE

Date: Tuesday, November 3

Polling Hours: 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Additional Resources:

• POLLING PLACE
• EARLY VOTING INFO
• GENERAL VOTING INFO

*STATE OFFICIALS*

State Governor & Lieutenant Governor (1)

All TWPs and Cities of Reed City & Evart

• Jocelyn Benson & Winnie Brinks, Democrat

• John James & Jay DeBoyer, Republican

• Anthony Hudson & Beau Parmenter, Libertarian

• Donna Brandenburg & Robert Cowper II, U.S. Taxpayers

• Douglas Campbell & Bobbie Clay, Green

Secretary of State (1)

All TWPs and Cities of Reed City & Evart

• Garlin Gilchrist II, Democrat

• Anthony Forlini, Republican

• Christine Sloan, Libertarian

• Scott Aughney, U.S. Taxpayers

• Eric Borregard, Green

Attorney General (1)

All TWPs and Cities of Reed City & Evart

• Eli Savit, Democrat

• Doug Lloyd, Republican

• Jason Dye, Libertarian

• John Perry Ludtke Jr., U.S. Taxpayers

• Jeff Polonowski, Green

• Doug Dern, Natural Law

*CONGRESSIONAL OFFICIALS*

U.S. Senator (1)

All TWPs and Cities of Reed City & Evart

• Abdul El-Sayed, Democrat

• Mike Rogers, Republican

• Lydia Christensen, Libertarian

• Tim Long, U.S. Taxpayers

• Douglas Marsh, Green

• Walter Kristy, Natural Law

U.S. Congress - 2nd District (1)

All TWPs and Cities of Reed City & Evart

• Ben Ambrose, Democrat

• John Moolenaar, Republican*^INC

• Charlotte Magoon, Green

• Richard Sills, Natural Law

State Senator - 34th District (1)

All TWPs and Cities of Reed City & Evart

• Roger Hauck, Republican*^INC

• Tyler Landgraf, Democrat

State Representative - 100th District (1)

All TWPs and Cities of Reed City & Evart

• Tom Kunse, Republican*^INC

• Tracy Ruell, Democrat

*STATE EDUCATIONAL OFFICIALS*

State Board of Education (2)

All TWPs and Cities of Reed City & Evart

• Judith Pritchett, Democrat

• Tiffany Tilley, Democrat

• Terence Collins, Republican

• Bree Moeggenberg, Republican

• Charles Essner, Libertarian

• William Mohr II, U.S. Taxpayers

• Christine Schwartz, U.S. Taxpayers

• Wissam Charafeddine, Green

• Mary Anne Hering, Working Class

• Kelli Monroe, Natural Law

Regent of the University of Michigan (2)

All TWPs and Cities of Reed City & Evart

• Paul Brown, Democrat

• Amir Makled, Democrat

• Lena Epstein, Republican

• Michael Schostak, Republican

• Andrew Chadderdon, Libertarian

• Kyle Maas, U.S. Taxpayers

Trustee of Michigan State University (2)

All TWPs and Cities of Reed City & Evart

• Brianna Scott, Democrat

• Kelly Tebay Zemke, Democrat

• Julie Maday, Republican

• Roger Victory, Republican

• Daniel Patterson, Libertarian

• Will Tyler White, Libertarian

• Janet Sanger, U.S. Taxpayers

• John Sanger, U.S. Taxpayers

• John Anthony La Pietra, Green

• Yaz Ozbek, Working Class

Govenor of Wayne State University (2)

All TWPs and Cities of Reed City & Evart

• Shereef Akeel, Democrat

• Richard Mack, Democrat

• Andy Anuzis, Republican

• Christa Murphy, Republican

• Alex Avery, Libertarian

• Jami Van Alstine, Libertarian

• Jeff McDonald, U.S. Taxpayers

• Paul Ragan, Green

• Suzanne Roehrig, Working Class

• Kathleen Oakford, Natural Law

*JUDICIAL OFFICIALS*

Justice of Supreme Court (2)

All TWPs and Cities of Reed City & Evart

• Megan Kathleen Cavanagh*^INC

• Noah P. Hood*^INC

• Thomas W. Howe

• Casandra Morse-Bills

• Michael Warren

• Jody White

Judge of Court of Appeals (3)

All TWPs and Cities of Reed City & Evart

• Michael J. Kelly*^INC

• Allie Greenleaf Maldonado*^INC

• Michelle M. Rick*^INC

Judge of 49th Circuit Court (1)

All TWPs and Cities of Reed City & Evart

• Dennis L. Duvall Jr.

Judge of 77th Circuit Court (1)

All TWPs and Cities of Reed City & Evart

• Peter Michael Jaklevic*^INC

*COUNTY OFFICIALS*

Osceola County Road Commissioner (1)

All TWPs and Cities of Reed City & Evart

• Terry Robert Wanstead, Republican

*CITY, TOWNSHIP, & VILLAGE OFFICIALS*

City of Evart Mayor (1)

City of Evart

• Roger Elkins

• Sandra Szeliga

City of Evart Clerk (1)

City of Evart

• Andrea Grupido

City of Evart Council Member (2)

City of Evart

• Ralph Carlson

• Bruce Robinson

• Tina Young

City of Reed City Council Member (4)

City of Reed City

• James C. Anderlohr

• Trevor Guiles

• Timothy Locker

Hersey Township Supervisor (1)

Hersey TWP

• Marco Menezes (partial term until 12/1/28)

Hersey Township Treasurer (1)

Hersey TWP

• Susan Martinez (partial term until 12/1/28)

Village of Hersey President (1)

Hersey TWP

• Karen Huisman

Village of Hersey Treasurer (1)

Hersey TWP

• Christopher Hurst

Village of LeRoy President (1)

LeRoy TWP

• Adam Johnson

Village of LeRoy Trustee (3)

LeRoy TWP

• DJ Goines

• Julia Lockhart

• James Seavey

Village of Marion President (1)

Marion TWP

• David Swiler

Village of Marion Trustee (3)

Marion TWP

• Bonnie Tenney

Village of Tustin President (1)

Burdell TWP

• Ryan Erickson

Village of Tustin Clerk (1)

Burdell TWP

• Jessica Coykendall

Village of Tustin Treasurer (1)

Burdell TWP

• Kayla Erickson

Village of Tustin President (4)

Burdell TWP

• Lou Ann Anderson

• Alexandrea Dickinson

• Christie Dunlop

*LOCAL EDUCATIONAL OFFICIALS*

Cadillac Area Public Schools Board Member (3)

Sherman TWP

• Zachary A. Anderson

• Anne Engels

• Nicole Schultz

Chippewa Hills School District Board Member (4)

Orient TWP

• Katie Bazaire (4-year term)

• Amanda Cornell (4-year term)

• Melissa E. Denslow (4-year term)

• Tony Gibson (4-year term)

• Shauna M. Livermore (4-year term)

• Jesse Steele (4-year term)

Evart School District Board Member (2)

Cedar TWP, City of Evart, Evart TWP, Hartwick TWP, Hersey TWP, Middle Branch TWP, Orient TWP, Osceola TWP, Sylvan TWP

• Bre Grabill (6-year-term)

• Eric Schmidt (6-year-term)

Marion Public Schools Board Member (1)

Hartwick TWP, Highland TWP, Marion TWP, Middle Branch TWP, Rose Lake TWP, Sherman TWP, Sylvan TWP

• Renaye Fewless

• Thomas Krause

McBain Rural Agricultural Schools Board Member (3)

Highland TWP, Marion TWP

• Karen J. Abrahamson

• Doug McLain

• Rebecca Voelker

Pine River Area Schools Board Member (2 each)

Burdell TWP, Cedar TWP, Hartwick TWP, LeRoy TWP, Lincoln TWP, Rose Lake TWP, Sherman TWP

• Derek Brock (6-year-term)

• Wendy Ragatzki (6-year-term)

• Rob Kulpa (4-year-term)

• Susan Stoll (4-year-term)

Reed City Area Public Schools Board Member (3)

Cedar TWP, Hersey TWP, Lincoln TWP, City of Reed City, Richmond TWP

• Troy Alan Bowling (4-year term)
• Jamie Eichenberg (4-year term)
• Christine Mund (4-year term)
• Dustin Robbins (4-year term)
• Maggie M. Walcott (partial term until 12/1/28)* ^{seperate from 4-year}

*STATE PROPOSALS*

Proposal 2026-1: Convene A Constitutional Convention For The Purpose Of Drafting A General Revision Of The State Constitution?

All TWPs and Cities of Reed City & Evart

• Shall a convention of elected delegates be convened in 2027 to draft a general revision of the State Constitution for presentation to the state’s voters for their approval or rejection?

Proposal 2026-2: Proposed Law To Prohibit Campaign Contributions From Certain Regulated Utilities And Government Contractors And Apply Campaign Finance Laws And Regulations To Additional Types Of Political Communications?

All TWPs and Cities of Reed City & Evart

• Prohibit regulated electric and gas utilities, contractors with over $250,000 annually in government contracts, and people and organizations with substantial connections to these utilities/contractors from making direct or indirect campaign contributions to those who run for or hold offices that impact them. 

• Expand laws regulating spending on political communications, including those requiring disclosing donor information, to apply to communications clearly identifying candidates or ballot questions, even if they do not expressly advocate voting for/against them. 

• Expressly apply the law requiring disclosure of who paid for political communications to internet political communications. 

• Should this proposal be adopted?

*CITY, TOWNSHIP, & SCHOOL PROPOSALS*

Chippewa Hills School District Bond Proposal

Orient TWP

• Shall Chippewa Hills School District, Mecosta, Isabella and Osceola Counties, Michigan, borrow the sum of not to exceed Twenty-Nine Million Nine Hundred Thousand Dollars ($29,900,000) and issue its general obligation unlimited tax bonds therefor, in one or more series, for the purpose of:

  • Remodeling, including safety and security improvements, furnishing and refurnishing, and equipping and reequipping existing school buildings; erecting, furnishing, and equipping school support buildings; acquiring and installing instructional technology and instructional technology equipment for school buildings; purchasing school buses; and equipping, developing, and improving playgrounds, athletic fields and facilities, parking areas, driveways, and sites?

  • The estimated millage that will be levied for the proposed bonds in 2027 is 1.04 mills ($1.04 on each $1,000 of taxable valuation) for a 0 mill net increase over the prior year’s levy. The maximum number of years the bonds of any series may be outstanding, exclusive of any refunding, is twenty (20) years. The estimated simple average annual millage anticipated to be required to retire this bond debt is 1.03 mills (1.03 on each $1,000 of taxable valuation).

  • (Pursuant to State law, expenditure of bond proceeds must be audited and the proceeds cannot be used for repair or maintenance costs, teacher, administrator or employee salaries, or other operating expenses.)

City of Evart Fire Millage Proposal

City of Evart, Evart TWP

• Shall the City of Evart, Osceola County, be authorized to levy a millage annually in an amount not to exceed 2.0 mills ($2.00 per each $1,000 of taxable value), of which 1.8422 mills is a renewal of the previously authorized millage that expired in 2025 and .1578 mill is new additional millage, for six (6) years, 2026 through 2031, inclusive, to provide funds for operating, equipping, constructing, and purchasing for the Evart Area Joint Fire Department or for any other purpose authorized by law for fire service purposes? 

• The estimate of the revenue the City will collect in the first year of levy (2026) if the millage is approved is approximately $95,500. A portion of the revenue collected may be subject to capture by the City of Evart Downtown Development Authority.

LeRoy Community Library Millage Proposal

LeRoy TWP, Rose Lake TWP

• Shall the LeRoy Community Library, County of Osceola, Michigan, be authorized to levy annually a new additional millage in an amount not to exceed .70 mill ($0.70 per each $1,000 of taxable value) against all taxable property within the LeRoy Community Library district for a period of five (5) years, 2026 through 2030, inclusive, for the purpose of providing funds for all district library purposes authorized by law?

• The estimate of the revenue the LeRoy Community Library will collect if the millage is approved and levied by the LeRoy Community Library in the first year (2026) is approximately $105,000.

Hartwick Township Road Millage Proposal

Hartwick TWP

• Road Maintenance increase in the tax limitations imposed under article, sec 6 of the Michigan Constitution in Hartwick Township, of 1 mill ($1.00 per $1,000) taxable value) and levied for 4 years, 2026 through 2030 inclusively, for road maintenance and improvements, raising an estimated $42,575 in the first year the millage is levied?

Hartwick Township Operating Millage Renewal Proposal

Hartwick TWP

• Shall Hartwick Township restore its general taxing capacity previously established at 1.0 mill ($1.00 per $1,000 of taxable value) by MCL 211.211(4) which was reduced to 0.7301 ($0.7301 per $1,000 of taxable value) by Headlee Amendment rollbacks, through an additional millage of 0.2699 mills ($0.2699 per $1,000 of taxable value) to restore, and not to exceed, the full 1.0 mill limit established by law, each year beginning in 2026 inclusively, for duration of five (5) years, for general township operating purposes? it is established that the additional millage of 0.2699 mills will raise $ 11,491 in the first year of the levy, which is perpetual, subject to future reductions by the Headlee amendment.

Lincoln Township Fire Millage Proposal

Lincoln TWP

• Shall the Lincoln Township, County of Osceola, Michigan, be authorized to levy a new millage in an amount of 1.75 mills (!1.75 per each $1,000 of taxable value) against all taxable property within the limits of Lincoln Township for a period of ten (10) years, 2026 through 2035, inclusive, for the purpose of providing funds for all purposes authorized by state statute and law, including operating and equipping the Lincoln Township Fire Department? The estimate of the revenue the Lincoln Township of Osceola County will collect if the millage is approved and levied by the Lincoln Township Board in the first year of levy (2026) is approximately $199,682.

Middle Branch Township Millage Proposal

Middle Branch TWP

• Shall Middle Branch Township renew up to 1 mill ($1.00 per $1,000.00 of taxable value in the tax limitation imposed under Article IX, Section 6 of the Michigan Constitution and levy it for two years, 2026 through 2027, inclusive, for road improvements in Middle Branch Township, raising an estimated $28,576 in 2026, the first year the millage is levied?

Orient Township Fire Millage Proposal

Orient TWP

• Shall Orient Township, Osceola County, be authorized to levy a millage annually in an amount not to exceed 2.0 mills ($2.00 per each $1,000 of taxable value) of which 1.8905 mills is a renewal of the previously authorized millage that expired in 2025 and .1095 mill is new additional millage, for six (6) years, 2026 through 2031 inclusive, to provide funds for operating, equipping, constructing, and purchasing for the Evart Area Joint Fire Department or for any other purpose authorized by law for fire service purposes? The estimate of the revenue the Township will collect in the first year of the levy (2026) if the millage is approved is approximately $103,000.

Osceola Township Fire Millage Proposal

Osceola TWP

• Shall Osceola Township, Osceola County, be authorized to levy a millage annually in an amount not to exceed 2.0 mills ($2.00 per each $1,000 of taxable value), of which 1.8908 mills is a renewal of the previously authorized millage that expired in 2025 and .1092 mill is new additional millage, for six (6) years, 2026 through 2031, inclusive, to provide funds for operating, equipping, constructing, and purchasing for the Evart Area Joint Fire Department or for any other purpose authorized by law for fire service purposes?  The estimate of the revenue the Township will collect in the first year of levy (2026) if the millage is approved is approximately $92,000.

Richmond Township Millage Proposal

Richmond Township

• Shall Richmond Township impose a renewal of up to 2 mills ($2.00 per $1,000.00 of taxable value) in the tax limitation imposed under Article IX, Section 6 of the Michigan Constitution and levy it for 4 years, 2026 through 2029 inclusive, to be allocated and placed in a special account for road construction and maintenance, which shall be allocated at the complete discretion of the Richmond Township Board. This 2-mill renewal will raise an estimated $160,604.63. in the first year the millage is levied?

Reed City Area Public School District Bond Proposal

Cedar TWP, Hersey TWP, Lincoln TWP, City of Reed City, Richmond TWP

• Shall Reed City Area Public Schools, Osceola, Mecosta, Newaygo and Lake Counties, Michigan, borrow the sum of not to exceed Ten Million Seven Hundred Eighty Thousand Dollars ($10,780,000) and issue its general obligation unlimited tax bonds therefor, in one or more series, for the purpose of: 

• Remodeling and re-equipping school buildings and facilities; and preparing, developing, improving and equipping structures, sites and lighting at the high school athletic field? 

• The estimated millage that will be levied for the proposed bonds in 2027 is 0.20 mill ($0.20 on each $1,000 of taxable valuation) for a -0- mill net increase over the prior year’s levy. The maximum number of years the bonds of any series may be outstanding, exclusive of any refunding, is nine (9) years. The estimated simple average annual millage anticipated to be required to retire this bond debt is 1.83 mills ($1.83 on each $1,000 of taxable valuation). 

• The school district does not expect to borrow from the State to pay debt service on the bonds. The total amount of qualified bonds currently outstanding is $2,260,000. The total amount of qualified loans currently outstanding is $0. The estimated computed millage rate may change based on changes in certain circumstances. 

• (Pursuant to State law, expenditure of bond proceeds must be audited and the proceeds cannot be used for repair or maintenance costs, teacher, administrator or employee salaries, or other operating expenses.)

Sherman Township Meeting Abolishment Proposal

Sherman Township

• Shall the annual meeting of the electors of Sherman Township be abolished?

Sylvan Township Fire Millage Proposal

Sylvan Township

• Shall Sylvan Township, Osceola County, be authorized to levy a millage annually in an amount not to exceed 2.0 mills ($2.00 per each $1,000 of taxable value), of which 1.8418 mills is a renewal of the previously authorized millage that expired in 2025 and .1582 mill is new additional millage, for six (6) years, 2026 through 2031, inclusive, to provide funds for operating, equipping, constructing, and purchasing for the Evart Area Joint Fire Department or for any other purpose authorized by law for fire service purposes?  The estimate of the revenue the Township will collect in the first year of levy (2026) if the millage is approved is approximately $102,000.

Today, after years of sustained investment in local policy, community violence intervention and efforts to keep illegal guns off the streets, Governor Whitmer announced that violent crime in Michigan is the lowest it’s been in seven years. Murders are down more than 40% since 2021, robberies have been cut in half since the governor took office, and more than 1,000 illegal guns have been taken off the streets as part of Operation Safe Neighborhoods. 

“Every Michigander deserves to feel safe in their home, their neighborhood, and their community,” said Governor Whitmer. “We’ve invested nearly $2 billion in public safety to put more officers on the street, support proven violence intervention programs, and take illegal guns out of the hands of people who shouldn’t have them. I’m grateful to the law enforcement officers and community partners who work every day to keep our communities safe.” 

Since 2018, Michigan has invested nearly $2 billion in public safety, including: 

• $100 million for Public Safety Revenue Sharing grants over the past two fiscal years, to provide cities, villages, and townships with additional resources for police services and to support community violence intervention efforts. 
• $25.2 million for community violence intervention grants that work to stop violence before it starts. 

• $2.5 million for the statewide gun violence prevention task force, to save lives, reduce violence, and work to keep Michiganders safe. 

• A 20% pay raise for Michigan State Police Troopers and Sergeants to attract and retain the men and women who keep communities safe. 

The governor has also signed commonsense gun safety laws, including universal background checks and safe storage requirements, extreme risk protection orders and a ban on firearm possession by convicted domestic abusers. 

“Every day, our troopers across Michigan work alongside community partners to make our neighborhoods safer, and it’s yielding results,” said Col. James F. Grady II, director of the Michigan State Police. “Governor Whitmer’s investments have given us the resources to protect Michiganders, take illegal guns off our streets and build real trust with the communities we serve. We’re proud of this progress, and we’re not slowing down.” 

“Every Michigander deserves to feel safe at home, at work, and everywhere in between. That’s why we’ve driven historic investments into evidence-based public safety initiatives,” said state Senator Kevin Hertel (D-St. Clair Shores), chair of the Senate committee responsible for the Michigan State Police budget. “With this funding, we’re making sure our public safety departments have the training, personnel, and equipment they need to protect our communities. And with crime being at a 7-year low, it’s clear that our approach is working.” 

"The investments we've made in public safety over the last several years, like higher trooper pay and providing sustainable revenue sharing for local departments, are delivering real, tangible results,” said state Representative Denise Mentzer (D-Mt. Clemens). “This seven-year low shows that when Lansing invests directly in public safety, it pays off in dividends for the safety of our communities." 

Nearly one in three reported violent crimes in Michigan involve a firearm. Earlier this year, Governor Whitmer announced over 1,000 illegal guns have been taken off the streets as part of Operation Safe Neighborhoods. Since the operation began, law enforcement officials have conducted more than 11,000 check-ins with felony offenders. During sweeps, officers have also recovered illegal drugs and ammunition.

This initiative builds on Governor Whitmer’s MI Safe Communities program that she launched in 2021 to invest in local police, get illegal guns off the street and fund expanded opportunities in jobs, education and the justice system. 

^{The following is a game recap courtesy of Senior Writer Tim Twentyman & DetroitLions.com.}

Recap: The Detroit Lions got their first crack at an NFC North opponent Sunday at Ford Field and got the division slate of their schedule off to a great start with a 20-17 win over Green Bay.

Kicker Jake Bates stayed perfect kicking field goals on the season, hitting a 22-yarder as time expired to give Detroit a huge win at home.

The win improves the Lions' record to 4-2 on the season and gives them back-to-back wins for the first time since early October of last season.

Detroit's dynamic receiving duo of Amon-Ra St. Brown and Jameson Williams proved too much for the Packers to contain all contest and helped spearhead the Lions' win. Williams caught two touchdowns (16 & 10 yards) for the second straight week and finished with 91 receiving yards on five receptions. St. Brown caught nine passes for 153 yards.

Running back Jahmyr Gibbs was also big in this one, rushing for 116 yards on 29 attempts and catching five passes for 27 yards.

Detroit led 17-14 at the start of the fourth quarter, but Green Bay tied it midway through the quarter on a 43-yard field goal.

On the next Lions' possession, Detroit couldn't convert a 4th & 1 at their own 22-yard line, giving Green Bay terrific field position with a chance to take the lead. The Packers eventually lined up for a 35-yard field goal try that was blocked.

Detroit's offense took over and never gave the football back.

They marched 71 yards down the field in 10 plays, taking off the last three minutes and 21 seconds and setting up Bates for the winner.

The Lions also got a huge fourth-quarter interception from safety Brian Branch, who was playing in his first game since tearing his Achilles last December.

QB comparison: Jared Goff registered his 29th consecutive game with a touchdown pass and completed 22 of his 32 pass attempts for 303 yards and those two touchdowns to Williams. He finished with a 119.7 passer rating. Goff has now gone six straight games to begin the season without throwing an interception. He has 14 touchdowns and no picks. He was credited with a lost fumble Sunday on a bad exchange with center Cade Mays, who started his first game of the season coming off Reserve/Injured.

Jordan Love finished 27-for-45 passing for 274 yards with two touchdown passes to tight end Tucker Kraft and running back Josh Jacobs. He also threw an interception and finished with an 83.0 rating.

Impact moment: After Green Bay missed a chance to take a 20-17 lead late with the failed 35-yard field goal attempt, Goff led the Lions down the field with the critical play being a 2nd & 8 dart to tight end Sam LaPorta over the middle to Detroit's 45-yard line. The Lions got 15 yards tacked on via Karl Brooks' roughing the passer penalty.

Detroit marched down to the Packers' 20-yard line where they faced a 3rd & 5. Green Bay gifted the Lions a first down with an offside penalty, jumping on a hard count. Detroit ran the clock down from there thanks to two unselfish runs by Gibbs, turning down touchdowns to get downs and run the clock.

Key stat: Detroit held Green Bay to just 60 yards rushing and no rushing touchdowns.

Injury report: Cornerback Ennis Rakestraw Jr. left the game in the second half with an ankle injury and did not return.

Next week: vs. Minnesota (6-0), Sunday, Nov. 1 at 1 p.m. (FOX)

Local Realtor Brittany Felde was recently featured on Inside Success TV as part of the “Women in Power” series.

The show, which was filmed in Miami, Florida, features Felde sharing parts of her life story and the inspiration that led her into real estate.

“I was on Facebook and saw some casting opportunities on Netflix,” Felde said. “When I submitted my application, they saw my business and everything. That’s when they called to see if (Women in Power) would be something I would be interested in.”

She launched Felde Realty in 2021. The company, based in Morley, has 14 listing agents and serves seven area counties. Brittany has won multiple awards, including RateMyAgent’s Agent of the Year in 2025.

While she changed career plans multiple times, Felde fell in love with the real estate process while purchasing her first home at 21 years old. She then obtained her real estate license while holding two other jobs and sold 60 houses in her first year.

When asked what inspired her to start her own company, she said she wanted to maximize license capabilities for agents to buy and sell houses.

“I created my company to help everybody and service the entire state. I’ve also been able to give back to the community that I’m a part of, and that’s been really big.”

Along with her real estate venture, Brittany operates Felde Fun Houses, a party inflatable rental business that also includes party supplies and a hall rental. She also has multiple Airbnb rental properties and has co-authored and contributed to a pair of real estate and financial success books.

“I definitely feel like (the episode) is empowering a lot of women,” Felde said. “When they first cast me, they were really trying to stick my story to its small-town roots, but now, it’s really focused on that you can be a mom and a successful business owner. I think that is encouraging for people to know that you can be a mom and still chase your dreams.”

To watch the episode, visit here: Built From Courage: Inside Success TV Episode.

_{Photo courtesy of Brittany Felde and Inside Success TV.}

It's time for the General Election this November! For those living in Mecosta County, see our voting guide below to help you know what's going to be on the ballot.

MECOSTA COUNTY BALLOT GUIDE

Date: Tuesday, November 3

Polling Hours: 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Additional Resources:

• POLLING PLACE
• EARLY VOTING INFO
• GENERAL VOTING INFO

*STATE OFFICIALS*

State Governor & Lieutenant Governor (1)

All TWPs and City of Big Rapids

• Jocelyn Benson & Winnie Brinks, Democrat

• John James & Jay DeBoyer, Republican

• Anthony Hudson & Beau Parmenter, Libertarian

• Donna Brandenburg & Robert Cowper II, U.S. Taxpayers

• Douglas Campbell & Bobbie Clay, Green

Secretary of State (1)

All TWPs and City of Big Rapids

• Garlin Gilchrist II, Democrat

• Anthony Forlini, Republican

• Christine Sloan, Libertarian

• Scott Aughney, U.S. Taxpayers

• Eric Borregard, Green

Attorney General (1)

All TWPs and City of Big Rapids

• Eli Savit, Democrat

• Doug Lloyd, Republican

• Jason Dye, Libertarian

• John Perry Ludtke Jr., U.S. Taxpayers

• Jeff Polonowski, Green

• Doug Dern, Natural Law

*CONGRESSIONAL OFFICIALS*

U.S. Senator (1)

All TWPs and City of Big Rapids

• Abdul El-Sayed, Democrat

• Mike Rogers, Republican

• Lydia Christensen, Libertarian

• Tim Long, U.S. Taxpayers

• Douglas Marsh, Green

• Walter Kristy, Natural Law

U.S. Congress - 2nd District (1)

All TWPs and City of Big Rapids

• Ben Ambrose, Democrat

• John Moolenaar, Republican*^INC

• Charlotte Magoon, Green

• Richard Sills, Natural Law

State Senator - 34th District (1)

All TWPs and City of Big Rapids

• Roger Hauck, Republican*^INC

• Tyler Landgraf, Democrat

State Representative - 100th District (1)

All TWPs and City of Big Rapids

• Tom Kunse, Republican*^INC

• Tracy Ruell, Democrat

*STATE EDUCATIONAL OFFICIALS*

State Board of Education (2)

All TWPs and City of Big Rapids

• Judith Pritchett, Democrat

• Tiffany Tilley, Democrat

• Terence Collins, Republican

• Bree Moeggenberg, Republican

• Charles Essner, Libertarian

• William Mohr II, U.S. Taxpayers

• Christine Schwartz, U.S. Taxpayers

• Wissam Charafeddine, Green

• Mary Anne Hering, Working Class

• Kelli Monroe, Natural Law

Regent of the University of Michigan (2)

All TWPs and City of Big Rapids

• Paul Brown, Democrat

• Amir Makled, Democrat

• Lena Epstein, Republican

• Michael Schostak, Republican

• Andrew Chadderdon, Libertarian

• Kyle Maas, U.S. Taxpayers

Trustee of Michigan State University (2)

All TWPs and City of Big Rapids

• Brianna Scott, Democrat

• Kelly Tebay Zemke, Democrat

• Julie Maday, Republican

• Roger Victory, Republican

• Daniel Patterson, Libertarian

• Will Tyler White, Libertarian

• Janet Sanger, U.S. Taxpayers

• John Sanger, U.S. Taxpayers

• John Anthony La Pietra, Green

• Yaz Ozbek, Working Class

Govenor of Wayne State University (2)

All TWPs and City of Big Rapids

• Shereef Akeel, Democrat

• Richard Mack, Democrat

• Andy Anuzis, Republican

• Christa Murphy, Republican

• Alex Avery, Libertarian

• Jami Van Alstine, Libertarian

• Jeff McDonald, U.S. Taxpayers

• Paul Ragan, Green

• Suzanne Roehrig, Working Class

• Kathleen Oakford, Natural Law

*JUDICIAL OFFICIALS*

Justice of Supreme Court (2)

All TWPs and City of Big Rapids

• Megan Kathleen Cavanagh*^INC

• Noah P. Hood*^INC

• Thomas W. Howe

• Casandra Morse-Bills

• Michael Warren

• Jody White

Judge of Court of Appeals (3)

All TWPs and City of Big Rapids

• Michael J. Kelly*^INC

• Allie Greenleaf Maldonado*^INC

• Michelle M. Rick*^INC

Judge of 49th Circuit Court (1)

All TWPs and City of Big Rapids

• Dennis L. Duvall Jr.

Judge of 77th Circuit Court (1)

All TWPs and City of Big Rapids

• Peter Michael Jaklevic*^INC

*COUNTY OFFICIALS*

Mecosta County Road Commissioner (1)

All TWPs and City of Big Rapids

• Michael Wernette, Republican

Mecosta County Commissioner - 5th District (1)

Aetna TWP, Austin TWP, Big Rapids TWP, Mecosta TWP

• Randy LaPreze, Republican

Mecosta County Commissioner - 6th District (1)

City of Big Rapids

• Wendy Nystrom, Democrat

• Allitta Hren, Republican

*CITY, TOWNSHIP, & VILLAGE OFFICIALS*

Austin Township Treasurer (1)

Aetna TWP

• Laurie Brockway, Republican

Austin Township Trustee (1)

Aetna TWP

• Kayla Iltis, Republican

Deerfield Township Treasurer (1)

Deerfield TWP

• No candidates on ballot.

Fork Township Treasurer (1)

Fork TWP

• Patti McNeilly, Republican

Sheridan Township Clerk (1)

Sheridan TWP

• Bridget Hahn, Democrat

Village of Barryton President (1)

Fork TWP

• Dan Cross

• Terah Eaton

• Jeff Nelson

Village of Barryton Trustee (1)

Fork TWP

• LaVonne Horstman

• Amy MacKersie

Village of Mecosta President (1)

Morton TWP - P1

• Jonathan Squires

• Ann Marie Wrobbel

Village of Mecosta Trustee (2)

Morton TWP - P1

• Terrie Caswell

• Deb Stieg

Village of Morley President (1)

Aetna TWP, Deerfield TWP

• Austin Korpal

Village of Morley Trustee (3)

Aetna TWP, Deerfield TWP

• Paul D. Block

• Teresa Fay Utter-Knight

• Katlyn Korpal

• Henry W. Petersen

• Steven C. Troost

• James Lewis (partial term until 12/1/28)* ^{seperate from 4-year}

Village of Stanwood President (1)

Mecosta TWP

• Cody Stilson

Village of Stanwood Trustee (2)

Mecosta TWP

• Jessica Routley

• Harmony Stilson

• No candidate for partial term until 12/1/28*

*LOCAL EDUCATIONAL OFFICIALS*

Big Rapids Public School District Board Member (2)

City of Big Rapids, Colfax TWP, Grant TWP, Green TWP, Martiny TWP

• Pete Kent

• Jeremy Mishler

Chippewa Hills School District Board Member (4)

Austin TWP, Chippewa TWP, Colfax TWP, Fork TWP, Martiny TWP, Millbrook TWP, Morton TWP, Sheridan TWP, Wheatland TWP

• Katie Bazaire (4-year term)

• Amanda Cornell (4-year term)

• Melissa E. Denslow (4-year term)

• Tony Gibson (4-year term)

• Shauna M. Livermore (4-year term)

• Jesse Steele (4-year term)

Evart School District Board Member (2)

Chippewa TWP, Grant TWP

• Bre Grabill (6-year-term)

• Eric Schmidt (6-year-term)

Lakeview Community School District Board Member (3)

Hinton TWP, Millbrook TWP

• David Hansen

• Brad Peasley

Montabella Community Schools Board Member (2)

Hinton TWP, Millbrook TWP, Wheatland TWP

• Kaylee Closson

• Erica Vincent

• No candidate for partial term until 12/31/28*

Montcalm Community College Board of Trustees Member (2)

Hinton TWP, Millbrook TWP, Wheatland TWP

• Robert Byram

• Joshua Stamp

Morley Stanwood Community Schools Board Member (4)

Aetna TWP, Deerfield TWP, Mecosta TWP

• Greg Babbitt (4-year term)
• Emily J. Bongard (4-year term)
• Mary L. Engelsman (4-year term)
• Matthias Stevens (4-year term)
• Michelle R. Frisbie (6-year term)* ^{seperate from 4-year}

Reed City Area Public Schools Board Member (3)

Grant TWP, Green TWP

• Troy Alan Bowling (4-year term)
• Jamie Eichenberg (4-year term)
• Christine Mund (4-year term)
• Dustin Robbins (4-year term)
• Maggie M. Walcott (partial term until 12/1/28)* ^{seperate from 4-year}

*STATE PROPOSALS*

Proposal 2026-1: Convene A Constitutional Convention For The Purpose Of Drafting A General Revision Of The State Constitution?

All TWPs and City of Big Rapids

• Shall a convention of elected delegates be convened in 2027 to draft a general revision of the State Constitution for presentation to the state’s voters for their approval or rejection?

Proposal 2026-2: Proposed Law To Prohibit Campaign Contributions From Certain Regulated Utilities And Government Contractors And Apply Campaign Finance Laws And Regulations To Additional Types Of Political Communications?

All TWPs and City of Big Rapids

• Prohibit regulated electric and gas utilities, contractors with over $250,000 annually in government contracts, and people and organizations with substantial connections to these utilities/contractors from making direct or indirect campaign contributions to those who run for or hold offices that impact them. 

• Expand laws regulating spending on political communications, including those requiring disclosing donor information, to apply to communications clearly identifying candidates or ballot questions, even if they do not expressly advocate voting for/against them. 

• Expressly apply the law requiring disclosure of who paid for political communications to internet political communications. 

• Should this proposal be adopted?

*CITY & SCHOOL PROPOSALS*

City of Big Rapids Proposition for Revised City Charter

City of Big Rapids

• Shall the revised city charter proposed by the City Charter Commission be adopted?

Chippewa Hills School District Bond Proposal

Austin TWP, Chippewa TWP, Colfax TWP, Fork TWP, Martiny TWP, Morton TWP, Sheridan TWP, Wheatland TWP

• Shall Chippewa Hills School District, Mecosta, Isabella and Osceola Counties, Michigan, borrow the sum of not to exceed Twenty-Nine Million Nine Hundred Thousand Dollars ($29,900,000) and issue its general obligation unlimited tax bonds therefor, in one or more series, for the purpose of:

  • Remodeling, including safety and security improvements, furnishing and refurnishing, and equipping and reequipping existing school buildings; erecting, furnishing, and equipping school support buildings; acquiring and installing instructional technology and instructional technology equipment for school buildings; purchasing school buses; and equipping, developing, and improving playgrounds, athletic fields and facilities, parking areas, driveways, and sites?

  • The estimated millage that will be levied for the proposed bonds in 2027 is 1.04 mills ($1.04 on each $1,000 of taxable valuation) for a 0 mill net increase over the prior year’s levy. The maximum number of years the bonds of any series may be outstanding, exclusive of any refunding, is twenty (20) years. The estimated simple average annual millage anticipated to be required to retire this bond debt is 1.03 mills (1.03 on each $1,000 of taxable valuation).

  • (Pursuant to State law, expenditure of bond proceeds must be audited and the proceeds cannot be used for repair or maintenance costs, teacher, administrator or employee salaries, or other operating expenses.)

Fork Township Road Maintenance Renewal

Fork TWP

• Shall the previous voted increase in the tax limitations imposed under Article IX, Sec. 6 of the Michigan Constitution in Fork Township of 1 mill ($1.00 per $1,000 of taxable value) be renewed and levied at up to .9739 mill ( $0.9739 per $1,000 of taxable value) for four (4) years, 2028 through 2031 inclusive, for the Purpose of providing funds for the maintenance and repair of roads within Fork Township boundaries, raising an estimated $71,723 in the first year the millage is levied?

Reed City Area Public School District Bond Proposal

Grant TWP, Green TWP

• Shall Reed City Area Public Schools, Osceola, Mecosta, Newaygo and Lake Counties, Michigan, borrow the sum of not to exceed Ten Million Seven Hundred Eighty Thousand Dollars ($10,780,000) and issue its general obligation unlimited tax bonds therefor, in one or more series, for the purpose of: 

• Remodeling and re-equipping school buildings and facilities; and preparing, developing, improving and equipping structures, sites and lighting at the high school athletic field? 

• The estimated millage that will be levied for the proposed bonds in 2027 is 0.20 mill ($0.20 on each $1,000 of taxable valuation) for a -0- mill net increase over the prior year’s levy. The maximum number of years the bonds of any series may be outstanding, exclusive of any refunding, is nine (9) years. The estimated simple average annual millage anticipated to be required to retire this bond debt is 1.83 mills ($1.83 on each $1,000 of taxable valuation). 

• The school district does not expect to borrow from the State to pay debt service on the bonds. The total amount of qualified bonds currently outstanding is $2,260,000. The total amount of qualified loans currently outstanding is $0. The estimated computed millage rate may change based on changes in certain circumstances. 

• (Pursuant to State law, expenditure of bond proceeds must be audited and the proceeds cannot be used for repair or maintenance costs, teacher, administrator or employee salaries, or other operating expenses.)

Megan Somsel got through Ferris State University on food assistance and Medicaid, living in low-income housing as an independent student. Now, she stocks a free vending machine built for students in her old shoes.

The basic needs vending machine stands outside the David L. Eisler Center, 805 Campus Drive, and gives students hygiene and wellness items around the clock at no cost. Ferris State, Corewell Health and District Health Department No. 10 held a ribbon cutting at 1 p.m. Friday, Oct. 23.

“I tell my students all the time that I was in your shoes,” said Somsel, Ferris State’s basic needs care coordinator in the Office of Student Life.

Somsel grew up in Blanchard, about 30 minutes from Big Rapids, and became emancipated from her parents at 17. She graduated from Ferris State in 2017 without knowing the Office of Student Life or the Personal Counseling Center existed, though she carried childhood trauma she said she would have taken to counseling. Ferris State had no food pantry then.

“I wish we had a food pantry back then when I was here because I definitely would have used it,” she said.

Somsel later worked as a case worker for the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services. Now she processes Ferris Cares emergency fund applications, helps students apply for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits and builds monthly budgets with them.

“I truly believe that I was put in this role to connect with those students,” she said.

Andy Slater, director of Counseling and Anti-Violence Prevention Programming at the Personal Counseling Center, brought Somsel onto the machine project last December. Corewell Health offered Ferris State a $20,000 grant from opioid settlement funds administered by Mecosta County. Slater managed the grant. Somsel bought the contents, helped design the machine and joined every meeting with Corewell and the manufacturer.

The settlement required naloxone and other risk-reduction items. Corewell left the rest to Ferris State. When full, the machine holds 300 to 500 items across nine categories, including shampoo, toothpaste, menstrual and personal hygiene products, hand sanitizer and toilet paper.

Students enter the code 123 and their student ID number, then choose up to one item per category per hour.

Somsel’s office already hands out hygiene care packages, but only 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. The machine covers nights and weekends, and it offers privacy.

“Not all students want to be seen taking a bag full of stuff out with them in the middle of the David Eisler Center,” Somsel said.

Slater sees the machine as a companion to the campus food pantry, which also operates in the Eisler Center.

“They get the food that they need, they get the hygiene stuff they need, they can go home and they can go pass their classes,” he said.

About $8,000 of the grant remains for restocking. Corewell partners told Slater that Ferris State can apply for more, and Somsel’s office holds Bulldog Basic Needs Alliance funds as a backup.

Slater set no usage target. He wants students to know the machine exists. For Somsel, who didn’t know about these resources as a student, that awareness is the point.

“These resources are here and you can utilize them as much as you need to,” she said. “Do it. There’s no shame in it.”

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

Late Thursday night, Oct. 22, 2026, law enforcement responded to multiple reports of shots fired in Martiny Township.

At approximately 8:08 p.m., Mecosta County sheriff’s deputies responded to a residence on 13 Mile Road for a report of shots fired. While en route, an additional call reported others rounds being fired into a nearby residence on the same road. Deputies made contact with the second caller, who showed them a bullet hole in the east side wall of the house.

While inside the residence, deputies heard several gunshots outside. They exited in an attempt to locate the source of the gunfire and heard several more shots, some of which struck the residence. The sergeant on scene requested assistance from the emergency response team and declared a barricaded gunman situation. Deputies held the perimeter and evacuated nearby citizens until additional resources arrived.

A search and arrest warrant were quickly secured by the Mecosta County Sheriff’s Office. It was executed by the Newaygo County Emergency Response Team, which established communication with the suspect and negotiated his surrender from an armored vehicle. 

“The suspect was taken into custody without further incident,” Sgt. Shawn Stallard of the Mecosta County Sheriff’s Office said. “Several firearms, including high-powered rifles, a shotgun and a pistol, as well as a stockpile of ammunition, were seized from the target residence. No injuries were reported.”

The suspect has been charged with two counts of discharging a firearm at or into an occupied dwelling and two counts of felony firearm.

The Mecosta County Sheriff’s Office was assisted by the Newaygo County Emergency Response Team, the Morton Township Fire and Rescue Drone Team, Meceola Central Dispatch, and Michigan State Police from the Isabella and Lakeview posts.

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

Last week, 41-year-old Gregory Hite and 41-year-old Bridget Bureau were bound over felony charges for an alleged criminal enterprise.

The couple, from Lake (Station) stole the identity of a local excavation business to obtain financing to resell equipment without a title. 44 pieces of equipment were illegally sold for a value of nearly $2 million. They were also charged with multiple counts of filing a false tax return.

"Identity thieves can target anyone, including businesses, for their own personal financial gain,” said Attorney General Nessel. “I want to thank the Clare County Sheriff’s Department and the Department of Treasury for their investigative work on this case. We will continue to work with our state and local partners to hold accountable those who steal from Michigan residents.”

Hite was bound over:

• One count of Conducting a Criminal Enterprise, a felony punishable by 20 years and/or $100,000;
• Three counts of Identity Theft, a felony punishable by 5 years and/or $25,000;
• One count of False Pretenses $100,000 or more, a felony punishable by 20 years and/or $35,000;
• One count of False Pretenses $50,000 or more but less than $100,000, a felony punishable by 15 years and/or $25,000;
• One count of Using a Computer to Commit a Crime, a felony punishable by 10 years and/or $10,000; and
• Five counts of Taxes- False Return, a felony punishable by 5 years and/or $5,000.

Bureau was bound over on:

• One count of Conducting a Criminal Enterprise, a felony punishable by 20 years and/or $100,000;
• Three counts of Identity Theft, a felony punishable by 5 years and/or $25,000; and
• Six counts of Taxes- Failure to File/False Return (tax years 2019 through 2024), a felony punishable by 5 years and/or $5,000.

The case is in the 55th Circuit Court in Clare County.

After more than four years in Russian custody, 74-year-old Stephen James Hubbard was released on Wednesday, Oct. 21.

Hubbard grew up in Big Rapids, Michigan, and is a veteran of the U.S. Air Force and National Guard. He taught in Japan for nearly 25 years and moved to Izium, Ukraine, in 2014.

U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff was involved in the announcement on Wednesday. Major news outlets reported that Hubbard was aboard a jet that landed in Texas late Wednesday night.

“Stephen is on his way back home and will soon be with his family,” President Donald Trump said via Truth Social. “The United States was not required to give anything in return — an unprecedented situation for Russia.”

Trump also said he contacted Putin directly by phone to negotiate the release.

Hubbard was detained by Russian forces in Ukraine in 2022 and was sentenced two years later on allegations of being a Ukrainian mercenary.

The United States designated Hubbard as “wrongfully detained” in January 2025, saying there was no evidence of him being a combatant. He was the oldest American held in Russia with that designation at the time of his release.

A 67-year-old man is missing after he was last seen in Howard City on Friday, Oct. 16. Brent Braford is described as 5 feet, 11 inches tall and about 190 pounds. He also needs medication.

Initial reports say he could be in Howard City, Sparta, Big Rapids, Kent City or White Cloud. Braford drives a dark-colored 2017 four-door Chevrolet Silverado truck.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Deputy Ouwinga at the Newaygo County Sheriff’s Office at (231) 689-7303. Please reference Report No. 162-2266-26.

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

Ferris State University men's basketball will hit the hardwood this week in an exhibition against Calvin University to start a new era under the leadership of head coach Brooks Miller.

The tilt is set for Thursday, Oct. 22 with tipoff at 6:30 p.m. Admission is free for all attendees.

A two-time National Coach of the Year, Miller was hired as the 15th head coach in Bulldog men's basketball history. He brings championship experience to the program after leading Trine University to the 2024 NCAA Division III National Championship, and more recently served at the NCAA DI level as the associate head coach at Central Michigan.

Thursday’s contest includes a special meeting for Miller that features two legendary Ferris State coaches: Ed Douma and Bill Sall.

Douma will be honored before the start of Thursday’s contest, as his successful career that spanned 34 years included serving as an assistant coach for Ferris State under Sall’s leadership from 2009-13 before retiring.

Before joining the Bulldogs, Douma served with multiple institutions - including Central Michigan University - while leading Calvin to the 1992 NCAA DIII National Championship to go along with multiple conference regular season and postseason titles. Douma was also inducted into the Basketball Coaches Association of Michigan Hall of Fame.

Miller emphasized what will be a special moment between the trio this week, as he noted that Douma gave him his first opportunity to coach at the collegiate level.

"Coach Douma opened doors for me that no one else could and challenged me in a way that forced me to find something in myself that I did not know I had," Miller said. "He provided opportunities for many of us that never would have been possible without his guidance.”

Sall was the Bulldogs’ head coach from 2002-13 and now enters his eighth season as the head coach for the Calvin Knights. He claimed four Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference Championships and made three trips to the NCAA DII Tournament while coaching for Ferris State.

The relationship between the three coaches goes deeper, as Miller was coached by Douma and Sall during his collegiate playing career at Hillsdale College.

“My family and I will be forever grateful for the impact both coach (Douma) and Carolyn have had in our lives, and I will work tirelessly to share many of the lessons he taught me to those I am fortunate enough to coach,” Miller said.

Ferris State will look to return to its winning ways under the leadership of Miller as the Bulldogs will have four straight regular-season matchups to open the season between Nov. 4 and 14. Their first GLIAC contest is slated for Dec. 3 against Saginaw Valley State at home.

_{Release and photos courtesy of Ferris State University & Athletics.}

Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel has announced that her office will intervene in a new natural gas rate case filed by Consumers Energy.

On Oct. 15, the Michigan Public Service Commission approved a roughly 4.3% rate increase that will allow Consumers Energy to collect an additional $139.2 million annually. The utility had requested about $240 million. The approved amount is more than 42% lower than the request.

Four days later, on Oct. 19, Consumers Energy filed notice of its intent to seek another natural gas rate increase. The full application is expected in December.

“Major utilities like Consumers Energy and DTE employ entire teams of staff to craft rate hike applications to file one right after another, and their bill-paying customers pay all the costs to craft these massive proposals,” Nessel said in a release. “In the past, we have asked the MPSC to require both companies to track their costs associated with rate hike cases and, as long as their customers are paying for the process, I hope someday soon we’ll know just how much.”

Starting Nov. 1, a typical residential customer using 75 hundred cubic feet of natural gas per month will see an increase of about $3.92. These rate increases generally cover capital investment costs such as gas mains, pipes and service lines.

Consumers Energy received approval for a $157.5 million natural gas rate increase on Sept. 30, 2025. The company also has a separate electric rate case pending in which it is seeking roughly $456 million. It serves approximately 1.8 million natural gas customers in Michigan.

The Big Rapids Department of Public Safety announced Tuesday that a 40-year-old man has been extradited from Texas to Mecosta County to face charges of first-degree criminal sexual conduct.

Freddie Patterson was transported by the U.S. Marshals Service on Thursday, Oct. 15, to the Mecosta County Jail. He was arraigned the following day in the 77th District Court on the charge and is being held without bond.

According to the department, the case stems from an investigation originally reported in 2021. Investigators have been working since 2024 to locate and extradite Patterson, who had been incarcerated in a Texas prison on unrelated charges.

"The Big Rapids Department of Public Safety would like to thank the Mecosta County Prosecutor’s Office, Michigan Attorney General’s Office, and United States Marshals Service for their assistance and cooperation throughout the extradition process," Big Rapids DPS said. "The charges referenced are allegations, and Patterson is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law."

_{Release information courtesy of the Big Rapids Department of Public Safety.}

Monday, October 12

• An officer was dispatched to a well-being check. The officer made contact with the subject who requested medical assistance. The officer stood by with the subject until medical personnel arrived on location. 
• An officer was dispatched to a residence for a civil dispute between siblings. The complainant was advised they needed to contact the Probate Court for further court involvement.
• An officer was contacted regarding a child abuse complaint. It was determined that the incident occurred outside of the city limits. The officer took a brief statement and completed a referral to Children Protective Services. The complaint was also turned over to the Osceola County Sheriff's Department.
• An officer assisted Osceola County Sheriff's Department with a domestic assault complaint.

Tuesday, October 13

• An officer was requested to do a standby for a community event.
• An officer was dispatched to a retail fraud complaint. The subjects were identified, and the complaint remains open pending further investigation.

Wednesday, October 14

• An officer was dispatched to investigate a traffic complaint.
• An officer was requested for VIN inspection and verification.

Thursday, October 15

• An officer was dispatched to an open phone line with no one on the line and no answer on an attempt to call back. Upon investigating the incident, it was found that 911 was mistakenly dialed. 

Friday, October 16

• An officer was dispatched to investigate a private property accident with damages.

Saturday, October 17

• An officer was dispatched to check the well-being of a child. The child was found to be okay.

Sunday, October 18

•  An officer was dispatched to investigate a hit and run accident. The complaint remains open pending further investigation.

• An officer was requested by the Osceola County Sheriff's Office to assist with a suspicious situation complaint involving multiple suspects who were involved in a recent theft. 

• An officer was requested by an Osceola County Sheriff's Deputy to assist them with a harassment/threat's complaint between two subjects. 

More than $1.4 million is heading to rural parts of Michigan for broadband expansion projects.

As part of Michigan’s Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) Program, 23 subgrantee agreements have been made to help connect about 200,000 homes to high-speed internet. These agreements will move the process forward toward construction for nearly 20,000 homes around the greater Big Rapids area.

Here are the number of homes in each county:

• Clare: 4,055
• Isabella: 1,233
• Lake: 1,844
• Mecosta: 2,863
• Montcalm: 2,832
• Newaygo: 2,886
• Osceola: 3,633

“Reliable high-speed internet means a student can complete homework, a parent can work from home, a small business can reach new customers and a family can access healthcare without leaving home,” said Susan Corbin, director of the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity. “Thanks to the commitment of our BEAD subgrantees, who are investing their own funds alongside this effort, we’re bringing more communities closer to these opportunities and building a stronger, more connected Michigan.”

The subgrantees include:

• 123NET
• Brightspeed
• CMS Internet
• Frontier
• Great Lakes Energy/Truestream
• Michigan Bell
• Midwest Energy & Communications
• Point Broadband Fiber Holding
• Spectrum
• Strategic Management, LLC

The Michigan High-Speed Internet Office (MIHI) also anticipates five more subgrantees will sign agreements in the near future. Subgrantees have four years to complete their projects once agreements are made.

To see a map of projects, visit here: MICHIGAN BROADBAND MAP.

_{Release information courtesy of the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity.}

The Lake County Sheriff’s Office is seeking tips on a suspect and vehicle involved in a hit-and-run crash that occurred in Webber Township on Oct. 9.

According to a post, the rear-end crash happened around 1:30 a.m. near the intersection of U.S. 10 and M-37 in Baldwin. The suspect is described as a white woman with light-colored hair who was driving a dark gray or navy blue Chevrolet Cruze.

Anyone with information about the suspect or the vehicle is encouraged to contact Sgt. Botello by phone at 231-745-2711 or by email at rbotello@co.lake.mi.us.

_{Information and images courtesy of Lake County Sheriff's Office.}

Monday, Oct. 12

• At 3:13 p.m., deputies responded to Big Rapids Township for an assault that occurred on October 11. This incident is under investigation. 

• At 7:15 p.m., a report was filed for a stolen motorcycle. The vehicle is described as a grey colored Kawasaki KLX230. Anyone with information can contact the Mecosta County Sheriff's Office.

• At 10:22 p.m., deputies assisted with a warrant arrest. The female was located and arrested on an outstanding warrant. She was lodged at the Mecosta County Jail without incident.

Calls for Service: 33

Traffic Accidents: 4

Tuesday, Oct. 13

• No arrests reported.

Calls for Service: 15

Traffic Accidents: 0

Wednesday, Oct. 14

• At 7:25 hours, deputies made a traffic stop in Millbrook Township. The traffic stop resulted in the male driver being arrested on several warrants. He was lodged at the Mecosta County Jail.

Calls for Service: 10

Traffic Accidents: 5

Thursday, Oct. 15

• No arrests reported.

Calls for Service: 10

Traffic Accidents: 2

Friday, Oct. 16

• At 7:52 p.m., deputies made a traffic stop in Hinton Township. The male driver was arrested on a warrant. He was lodged at the Mecosta County Jail.

Calls for Service: 14

Traffic Accidents: 2

Saturday, Oct. 17

• No arrests reported.

Calls for Service: 6

Traffic Accidents: 3

Sunday, Oct. 18

• At 7:54 a.m., deputies responded to a trespassing complaint in Fork Township. A male subject was arrested for Resist/Obstruct. He was lodged at the Mecosta County Jail.

• At 7:54 p.m., deputies made a traffic stop in Wheatland Township. A male subject was arrested on warrants out of Isabella County. He was turned over to Isabella County.

Calls for Service: 12

Traffic Accidents: 3

The Michigan Department of Transportation has announced it will convert the intersection of Northland Drive and 8 Mile Road into a four-way stop.

Located just north of Stanwood, the intersection is slated for conversion on Thursday, Oct. 22. Work includes installing new stop signs, pavement markings and adjustments to the overhead traffic lights. MDOT's initial estimation is the conversion will be completed in a day or two.

“Lane closures will be in effect throughout the day,” MDOT said. “Both directions of traffic will share one lane and alternate using traffic regulators.”

MDOT also said message boards will be in place to notify drivers of the change.

The intersection is near Big L Lumber, Ice Mountain, Mecosta Township Fire & Rescue and J & J Self Storage.

_{Release information and map image courtesy of MDOT.}

Six area high school bands will take the field tonight, Oct. 17, for spectacular Glow Show performances at Reed City High School.

Participating schools include Big Rapids, Lake City, Ludington, Morley Stanwood, Pine River and Reed City.

“This is a great event celebrating local school marching bands with the added twist of turning the stadium lights off and watching the band glow in their halftime performances,” Val Robbins of the Reed City Band Boosters said. “There will be concessions and fun glow merchandise where all sales go toward the Reed City Bands.”

Performances will start at 7:30 p.m. Entry to the stadium starts at 6:30 p.m.

Tickets can be purchased on-site for $10 or online before 5:30 p.m.

For more information on the show, visit https://www.reedcitybands.org/glow-show/.

The National Weather Service has issued a freeze warning for overnight Saturday, Oct. 17.

Subfreezing temperatures as low as 31 degrees are expected from midnight to 8 a.m. The warning will be in effect for Isabella, Kent, Mecosta, Montcalm and Newaygo counties.

“Frost and freeze conditions could kill crops, other sensitive vegetation and possibly damage unprotected outdoor plumbing,” the NWS said in an alert. “Take steps now to protect tender plants from the cold.”

Hourly WeatherEye forecasts can be heard at the top of the hour on WBRN via 96.5 FM, 1460 AM, WBRN.com and the WBRN mobile app.

Now 23 days into the fall season, temperatures are beginning to drop across West Michigan.

According to weather models and various forecasts, the next two weeks are expected to be transitional in terms of temperatures and precipitation.

The region is forecast to see a period of rain and cooler overnight temperatures between Oct. 16 and Oct. 17. Winds are also expected to be gusty over this two-day period, with gusts potentially reaching as high as 35 mph. A rebound of warmer temperatures is projected over the weekend into early next week, with highs possibly reaching the mid-60s through the week of Oct. 18–24.

A cooling trend, accompanied by moderate chances of precipitation, is forecast to begin the week of Oct. 25. This could bring high temperatures down into the 50s, with overnight lows in the upper 30s. Winds are expected during this period but are not projected to be as strong as those earlier in the week.

Outlooks from the Climate Prediction Center indicate temperatures running on the warmer side of historical averages for November. This is consistent with a strengthening El Niño, which often favors drier conditions and a later first snowfall, though outcomes can vary.

Big Rapids historically sees its first measurable snowfall sometime in early November. The earliest on record occurred Oct. 11 during an Arctic air outbreak in 2006. Current projections suggest the first snowfall this year may occur slightly later into the middle of November, but outlooks aren't certain at this time.

For more daily weather information, visit https://bigrapidsdailynews.com/forecast.

Ferris State University’s College of Engineering Technology is hosting dozens of high school girls for the third annual Jill of All Trades event, which helps the students learn more about the opportunities to launch a career in skilled professions.

More than 100 students are expected to attend on Thursday, Oct. 15, as Ferris State is the first and only institution in Michigan to host the event.

Initially founded in 2014 by Conestoga College Institute of Technology and Advanced Learning in Ontario, Jill of All Trades is described an international program designed to inspire young women in grades nine through 12 to explore rewarding careers.

"The College of Engineering Technology is honored to host the Jill of All Trades at Ferris State, and we continue to incite curiosity, encourage creativity and empower young women to explore opportunities they may not otherwise encounter,” CET Dean Kate O’Connor said.

“Offering an opportunity for the students to not only have learned more about programs we offer, but more importantly learning about themselves, is an invaluable experience that all cherish.”

High school girls from Big Rapids, Newaygo, Morley-Stanwood and other districts will have the chance to learn more and gain a bit of real-world experience through Ferris State’s engineering tech programs. This includes Plastics, Mechatronics, Heavy Equipment, Construction Management, Automotive, Welding and more.

Ashley Hawley, who serves as Ferris State’s Career and Technical Education Coordinator, recognizes that the initiative also helps to increase post-secondary enrollment in the trades to address the skilled trades shortage.

 “For many participants, this experience provides their first opportunity to explore hands-on activities, discover new interests and envision possibilities they may not have considered before,” Hawley said. “Watching curiosity turn into confidence and seeing students recognize their own potential is one of the most rewarding aspects of this event.”

A critical piece of the event is the help from industry sponsors that enhance the event and assist with showing the students what established businesses have to offer aspiring professionals.

Many of those existing partners are based in West Michigan. That is why university and CET program leaders are expanding the Jill of All Trades event to the Kendall College of Art and Design campus in 2027 to provide an opportunity for Grand Rapids area students to experience the program.

“We are so thrilled to partner with another fantastic Ferris State college to bring the Jill of All Trades experience to Grand Rapids schools next spring,” said Lilly Franklin, recruiting and engagement officer for CET.

Dates and times for next spring’s event in Big Rapids and Grand Rapids will be available soon.

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

The City of Big Rapids will host a public informational hearing at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 20, on the Perry Avenue Sidewalk Project.

The proposal calls for a concrete sidewalk on the south side of Perry Avenue. It would extend the existing sidewalk from the east side of Clark Street to Ferris Drive, then cross Perry Avenue to connect with the new sidewalk. Additional lighting and benches are also planned for the new sections.

"This proposed sidewalk project is about making Big Rapids a safer, more accessible, and more connected community for everyone,” said Steve Gove, City of Big Rapids Communications Coordinator. “By improving pedestrian access along Perry Avenue, we can create safer connections between local businesses, Ferris State University, and the people who live and work here. We encourage residents to attend the October 20 public hearing, learn more about the project, ask questions, and share their feedback as we explore this funding opportunity.”

The hearing will be held at Fellowship Christian Reformed Church, 407 Perry Ave.

The project is being considered for a Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP) grant through the Michigan Department of Transportation.

To see renderings of the project, see here: PROPOSED PERRY AVENUE SIDEWALK PROJECT RENDERINGS.

Residents unable to attend may submit questions to Megan Eppley at meppley@cityofbr.org or call 231-592-4032. Submissions must be received by 5 p.m. Monday, Oct. 19. 

_{Release information and renderings courtesy of the City of Big Rapids.}

On Tuesday, Oct. 13, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer announced the Infrastructure Projects Authority Fund (IPAF) will award funds toward transformational public transportation projects in Kent and Newaygo counties.

$6 million will be awarded to The Rapid’s Event Night Mobility Project, which will provide up to six additional buses to accommodate high nighttime travel demand in downtown Grand Rapids. These routes will help increase capacity to connect city employees, visitors and event attendees from local parking facilities to Acrisure Amphitheater, Van Andel Arena, DeVos Place and the incoming Amway Soccer Stadium.

About $4.3 million will go to Newaygo County to establish the county’s first countywide open-door public transit system. The new rural transit agency will provide access to health care, education, employment and other services for residents across the county. After piloting a four-year trial run, the county saw an increase in annual trips to over 25,000 last year.

“From rural to urban communities across the state, these investments will help expand vital public transit services and get people where they need to go,” Whitmer said. “As part of my plan to fix the damn roads, we’re expanding and improving public transit with new funding and a new role in state government. Today’s announcement will strengthen regional mobility and support innovative transportation solutions, all while helping more Michiganders access jobs, health care, education and opportunity.”

These two projects are part of nearly $65 million in funds distributed across the state.

For more information on award winners, visit here: IPAF Award Recipients October 2026.

_{Release information courtesy of the Office of Govenor Gretchen Whitmer.}

The Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO) along with Michigan Works! agencies statewide are celebrating Michigan’s leading rankings in helping job seekers get employed and connecting businesses with the talent they need to thrive in Michigan.   

Michigan is No. 1 in the region for helping adults who use workforce development services get employed, No. 4 nationally in active Registered Apprentices and No. 6 in new Registered Apprentices. In addition to apprenticeships, Michigan is among the national leaders in helping adults get employed by accessing workforce system services like Michigan Works!. Michigan has achieved an 84% credential attainment rate across the education and training pipeline – making Michigan No. 3 in the nation in credential attainment for adults using workforce programs.  

“The progress we’re seeing across Michigan is a testament to what’s possible when we invest in people, strengthen our workforce and stay focused on creating opportunity,” said LEO Director Susan Corbin. “Michigan is a national leader in creating opportunity and supporting our workforce, and we’re committed to building on that momentum. We’ll continue working together with workers, employers and our partners across the state to expand opportunity, strengthen our economy and make Michigan the best place to work, live and thrive.” 

These visits celebrated the many successes the State of Michigan and Michigan Works! Agencies are seeing through workforce programs and Registered Apprenticeships.  

"This tour made one thing clear: Michigan's workforce partnerships are working,” said Michigan Works! CEO Ryan Hundt. “Statewide workforce programs help employers train and keep the talent they need, and scaling them back means fewer Michiganders gaining skills and fewer businesses growing here. Continued investment in proven programs is how Michigan stays competitive." 

The series of roundtables at 15 Michigan Works! Agencies concluded at West Michigan Works! highlighting the significant progress on Michigan’s Statewide Workforce plan and its core goals to help more Michiganders earn a skills certificate or degree, increase opportunities to grow the middle class and support business and entrepreneurial growth through talent solutions making it possible for businesses to start, stay and thrive in Michigan.  

“We’re seeing how bringing together local employers is having a direct impact on connecting job seekers to meaningful careers,” said West Michigan Works! CEO Jacob Maas.” Achieving these milestones wouldn’t happen without bringing partners together from the state to the local level.” 

Michigan’s workforce success is built on collaboration among employers, labor organizations, educators and workforce development partners, with programs helping workers gain skills and businesses build the talent they need.  

“Michigan’s workforce is strongest when employers, labor, educators, government and workforce development partners — including Michigan Works! agencies and workforce boards — are all working together toward the same goal: creating real opportunities for people to build lasting careers while helping employers develop the skilled talent they need,” said Lee Graham, Executive Director of the Operating Engineers 324 Labor-Management Education Committee, member of the Michigan Workforce Development Board, and Chairman of the Michigan Apprenticeship Steering Committee, Inc. “Registered Apprenticeships are a great example of that partnership in action, combining education, hands-on training and direct connections to good careers. The progress highlighted here shows what can happen when Michigan continues to invest in proven workforce programs and the partnerships that make them successful.” 

The statewide visits also highlighted other important issues to improving participation in the workforce like access to reliable, high-speed internet, menopause awareness in the workplace, affordable childcare, preparing for an aging workforce and the state’s progress on the AI and the Workforce plan.  

To learn more about LEO’s efforts to grow the state’s workforce and make Michigan more prosperous for all, visit Michigan.gov/LEO.

_{Release courtesy of Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity.}

The Economic Development Responsibility Alliance (EDRA) will be hosting their fourth annual Truck or Treat event this year at Paris Park.

Slated for Saturday, Oct. 24, the event will be held from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. Activities include a truck or treat, bubble party, scavenger hunt, raffles, yard games, face painting, and photo opportunities with the Eiffel Tower.

"This year, attendees will be able to enjoy three different on-site food and beverage vendors," ERDA said. "Yum City will be there to sell hot Americana snacks and on-the-go meals, with Sugar Rush Retro Ice Cream Truck offering dessert, and Cornerstone Coffee’s Coffee Truck bringing hot beverages."

Joining the Trunk-or-Treat will be a Ghostbusters-mobile, a M.O.T.A bus in full costume, and local businesses. 

The event was made possible by the generosity of local businesses; including, Johnson’s Automotive Repair, Cook’s Manufacturing, Mr. C’s Party Store, M&M Lawn Care, Books & Beats, Stratz Heating & Cooling, Paris Cabins, Woodland Taxidermy, Taylor Wellness, and Paris Archery.

For more information on the EDRA, visit https://edraofmi.org.

_{Photo and release informaiton courtesy of EDRA of Michigan.}

Monday, Oct. 5

• At 2:24 p.m., deputies made a warrant arrest at a residence in Mecosta Township. A female subject was arrested on an undisclosed warrant. She was lodged at the Mecosta County Jail.

• At 3:51 p.m., deputies made a warrant arrest at a residence in Aetna Township. A male subject was arrested on a warrant. He was lodged at the Mecosta County Jail.

• At 3:52 p.m., deputies investigated a traffic accident in Deerfield Township. Additional investigation resulted in the male driver being arrested for Operating While Intoxicated. He was lodged at the Mecosta County Jail.

• At 4:00 p.m., deputies made a warrant arrest at a residence in Big Rapids Township. A male subject was arrested for Resisting & Obstructing Police and an additional probation violation. He was lodged at the Mecosta County Jail.

Calls for Service: 12

Traffic Accidents: 4

Tuesday, Oct. 6

• At 10:31 p.m., deputies made a traffic stop in Green Township.  The traffic stop resulted in the male driver being arrested for Operating While Intoxicated and Reckless Driving. He was lodged at the Mecosta County Jail.

Calls for Service: 10

Traffic Accidents: 5

Wednesday, Oct. 7

• No arrests reported.

Calls for Service: 0

Traffic Accidents: 0

Thursday, Oct. 8

• At 10:03 p.m., deputies made a traffic stop in Big Rapids Township. Two subjects were arrested on undisclosed warrants. Both were lodged at the Mecosta County Jail.

Calls for Service: 10

Traffic Accidents: 8

Friday, Oct. 9

• At 5:55 p.m., deputies made a warrant arrest in Big Rapids Township. A male subject was arrested on a warrant. He was lodged at the Mecosta County Jail.

• At 11:09 p.m., deputies made a traffic stop in Fork Township. A male subject was arrested for Possession of Dangerous Drugs. He was lodged at the Mecosta County Jail.

Calls for Service: 15

Traffic Accidents: 4

Saturday, Oct. 10

• At 1:15 p.m., deputies investigated a single vehicle accident in Aetna Township. Additional investigation resulted in the female driver being arrested for Operating While Intoxicated. She was lodged at the Mecosta County Jail.

• At 8:04 p.m, deputies made a warrant arrest at a residence in Sheridan Township. A male subject was arrested on a warrant. He was lodged at the Mecosta County Jail.

Calls for Service: 11

Traffic Accidents: 3

Sunday, Oct. 11

• At 1:24 a.m., deputies made a traffic stop in Mecosta Township. The traffic stop resulted in the female driver being arrested for Operating While Intoxicated. She was lodged at the Mecosta County Jail.

• At 11:01 p.m., deputies made a traffic stop in Fork Township. The traffic stop resulted in the male driver being arrested for Obstruction and Possession of Methamphetamine. He was lodged at the Mecosta County Jail.

Calls for Service: 8

Traffic Accidents: 0

The Newaygo County Sportsman’s Club suffered a devastating fire Sunday, Oct. 11.

A fire was reported around 5:18 p.m., with heavy smoke visible from the building. Fire crews from Croton, Newaygo, Sand Lake, Grant, Big Prairie, Howard City and White Cloud battled the blaze as late as 9 p.m.

“Our Sportsman’s Club family is devastated following tonight’s fire at the Club,” the club said in a Facebook post. “We ask that you please keep everyone affected in your thoughts and prayers.”

The cause of the fire remained unknown as of 7:30 a.m. Monday, and an investigation is underway.

The membership-based nonprofit, established in 1963, was built around wildlife conservation, hunting, fishing, shooting and other outdoor activities.

“Our Club has always been more than just a place to gather,” the club said. “It’s a community of friends who come together, support one another, and stand strong during difficult times. Please give us some time to gather our thoughts and information regarding our plan going forward.”

The club is located at 7951 Elm Avenue, just off M-82 between Howard City and Newaygo.

A new apartment complex is coming just south of downtown Grand Rapids.

The multi-phase project, Factory Yards, will transform a 13.4-acre contaminated industrial site into housing and commercial space.

“The EGLE grant is focused on the first mixed-use phase, which involves the rehabilitation of three industrial buildings into mixed-use buildings with housing and commercial spaces,” said Andrea Ryswick, EGLE Brownfield Coordinator. “At least 10 percent of all rental housing units will be held for tenants making less than 60% of the Area Median Income (AMI). Additionally, at least 10 percent of each type of rental unit will be for tenants making less than 80% of the AMI.”

The vacant property began as a furniture plant in the 1890s. It later served as a spring and wire manufacturer and as a parachute sewing facility during World War II, and it has been used for storage since the 1990s.

When the first phase is complete, it will include at least 200 housing units, 100 full-time jobs, 100 part-time jobs and 31,600 square feet of commercial space. Once all phases are complete, the project will create up to 450 residential units and 100,000 square feet of commercial space. Planned amenities include a half-acre outdoor plaza, ground-floor and micro-retail space, and a food hall in one of the buildings.

Proposed exterior rendering of the Factory Yards apartment complex (courtesy of EGLE).

“The EGLE Brownfield Redevelopment Grant will pay for additional site assessments, transportation and disposal of contaminated soil, and the installation of a vapor venting system,” Ryswick said. “In addition, grant funds may be used to remove two underground storage tanks and for a barrier to prevent contact with any remaining contamination. The city of Grand Rapids approved an $8.2 million tax exemption for the project.”

Factory Yards is the first Grand Rapids project to receive transformational brownfield incentives. The work also includes a $1 million EGLE grant for assessment of chemicals, soil and other conditions at the site.

The property is at 655 Godfrey Ave. SW, off Market Avenue and near the Grand River.

_{Renderings and photos courtesy of EGLE.}

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Rural Development recently announced nearly $25 billion in rural community investments nationwide in fiscal year 2026. These projects strengthen essential infrastructure, expand housing and business opportunities, and ensure rural families and farmers have the tools they need to succeed.  

In Michigan, Rural Development invested $326,811,172 in loans and grants in fiscal year 2026 to support these efforts.

“Thanks to the tireless work of Michigan’s rural development team, rural Michigan communities are received tens of millions in critical investments supporting law enforcement and first responders, building critical infrastructure, and helping rural Michiganders achieve the American dream of home ownership,” said USDA Rural Development Michigan State Director Dom Restuccia. “In the Trump-Vance Administration, under the leadership of Secretary Rollins, we are working to ensure that rural communities have the tools needed to revitalize rural communities and restore prosperity in every corner of Michigan so that the forgotten men and women of America are forgotten no more.”

These investments targeted several areas:

• Water and Environmental Programs: Rural Development invested $36.6 million through 26 projects to build and repair water and wastewater systems, protecting public health and supporting economic growth across.
• Community Facilities: Rural Development invested $28.4 million through 33 projects to build and improve hospitals, fire stations, first responder equipment, and other essential community facilities.
• Business Programs: Rural Development invested $31.1 million through 40 projects to support rural small businesses, value-added agriculture, and job creation through loans and grants that strengthen local economies.
• Housing Programs: Rural Development invested $230.4 million to help 2,700 rural families achieve safe, affordable homeownership and to support the development of affordable rural rental housing.

The investments mark only the beginning of USDA’s commitment to deliver resources that communities can rely on to improve their quality of life. Focusing on the needs of rural America helps build more resilient communities across the nation.

For more information on USDA Rural Development investments in rural America, visit the Rural Data Gateway. The Rural Data Gateway is an online tool that strengthens USDA Rural Development partnerships with rural people, entrepreneurs, government officials and Congress by making agency investment data accessible to the public.

Monday, September 28

• An officer was dispatched to a local business regarding a civil complaint with a customer. The subject was advised that they were asked to leave the business, and they did without incident.

Tuesday, September 29

• No incidents reported.

Wednesday, September 30

• No incidents reported.

Thursday, October 1

• No incidents reported.

Friday, October 2

• No incidents reported.

Saturday, October 3

• An officer responded to a two-car accident.  There were no injuries and both cars were drivable.

• An officer was dispatched to a domestic dispute. The parties were separated upon the officer’s arrival.

• An officer conducted a wellbeing check on a subject. The subject was fine and did not require any assistance.

• An officer was dispatched to a one-car accident. The driver had no injuries. The vehicle was towed from the scene.

Sunday, October 4

• An officer conducted a wellbeing check on a subject. The subject was fine and did not require any assistance.

Ferris State University is launching an effort to help students and employees quit smoking or vaping and create a healthier campus, with a new tobacco-free policy and a series of opportunities to help people kick the habit.

Free nicotine patches, gum and lozenges and other materials are available at Ferris State’s  Birkam Health Center without an appointment.

A state grant supported an informational campaign for campus buildings and grounds crews are removing outdoor ashtrays, which will be broken down and recycled as pothole filler.

The signs back a policy in effect since January 2026. It bans smoking, vaping and all other tobacco and nicotine use, including oral nicotine pouches, on university property and in university vehicles.

That covers parking lots and Ferris State’s Kendall College of Art and Design campus in Grand Rapids. The policy still allows FDA-approved nicotine replacement products to be used to help people quit.

Christy Bourdlais, Birkam's clinic manager, said people pick up the habits around them. The policy also removes easy access.

Birkam stocks several strengths of each product, so users can start at a high dose and taper down. Anyone can walk in, including students who haven't paid the student health center fee. Users who want to quit quietly can skip the conversation.

Pharmacy and nursing students will staff tables in the Birkam lobby and walk visitors through their options. Bourdlais said students often respond better to peers than to staff.

A patch doesn't address the oral fixation and anxiety that come with quitting, Bourdlais said. To help with those, Jess Helfmann, Ferris' treasury manager and chair of its sustainability committee, is delivering flavored toothpicks, gum, Altoids and fidgets to Birkam.

"We don't want to do this to hurt people," Helfmann said. “In order to help them, we have to offer the things that can help them quit."

Students who need more help can see Scott Winkle, site coordinator for Ten16 Recovery Network. He offers smoking cessation counseling through Collegiate Recovery Education Wellness, or CREW, upstairs from Birkam, where the Personal Counseling Center also sits.

Vaping is the most common form of nicotine use Bourdlais sees among students. Its lack of smell gives it a cleaner image than cigarettes or chewing tobacco, she said.

"But it's just as harmful," Bourdlais said. "I understand that between 18 and 22 years old, you're not concerned with those types of things. But it's developing a dependence on that substance that definitely can affect you the rest of your life."

Birkam staff hear the toll in students who have vaped for years.

"You can totally tell just by listening to somebody's lung sounds," Bourdlais said. "Those people are sick more often. They don't recover from illness as quickly."

"This age is a perfect group to target because they're away from home," she said. "… They want to fit in. They don't want to be the one kid that goes, 'No, that's okay. I don't want to do that.'"

Still, she believes attitudes are shifting.

"There are a lot of these kids at this age that have seen grandparents and parents struggle with any type of addiction, specifically nicotine and tobacco," Bourdlais said. "Grandpa is on oxygen his whole life and that's all they know of him."

The policy makes enforcement everyone's job, starting with a polite reminder. Repeat violations go to the Office of Student Conduct or Human Resources.

Michelle Kelly, associate professor of Pharmacy Practice and Pharmaceutical Science in the College of Pharmacy, wrote and initiated the policy. Helfmann credits Kelly's push and the backing of Amanda Matheson, vice president for Administration and Finance, for its approval.

Helfmann holds an education degree and serves on the Tri-County Public Schools board. She said students drive their work.

"You see those kids struggle," Helfmann said. “If you can show them before they go through that struggle, you're making the world a better place, and you're making someone's life a little easier."

Helfmann will judge the policy's success by what disappears from campus: people smoking or vaping, and cigarette butts on the ground. Bourdlais will watch Birkam's intake form.

"It's a question we ask when they come in and it's a vital sign. 'Are you a smoker?'" Bourdlais said. "… It would be great just to see that question with a 'No' checked next to it more often than 'Yes.'"

_{Photo courtesy of Ferris State University.}

Monday, September 14

• An officer was dispatched for a well-being check. The individual was located at home and conditions were adequate. The person was clean and healthy with no dangers being found at this time.

• An officer was called for a trespassing complaint. This case is pending.

• An officer attempted to locate a homeowner for a parking abatement violation. The individual was not home, or located at this time. This case is pending.

• An officer arrested a 70-year old woman for multiple felony and misdemeanor crimes. The woman was transported to Osceola County Jail without incident.

• An officer arrested a 47-year-old man on three counts of drug-related crimes. The man was transported to Osceola County Jail without incident.

Tuesday, September 15

• An officer took a property damage report at a local business. A statement was completed, evidence was gathered, and video footage documented. This case is pending.

• An officer was dispatched for a civil dispute. One individual was found to have injuries from an assault that had occurred. The matter has been submitted to the Prosecutor.

• An officer took a complaint of possible Criminal Sexual Conduct. The matter is under currently investigation.

• An officer was called for a civil dispute. Both individuals agreed they would talk to work things out peacefully.

Wednesday, September 16

• An officer assisted Child Protective Services (CPS) with an investigation.

• An officer was dispatched for a possibly suicidal individual. The individual was located and transported for treatment.

• An officer was dispatched for a missing person. Several area checks and patrols were done, but the individual was not located at this time. The family later confirmed the person was safe.

• An officer took a report of porch piracy. The package in question had been returned to the UPS store. A report is on file.

• An officer was called for a deer injured by in a vehicle collision. The deer had to be dispatched.

Thursday, September 17

• An officer took a report of theft within a home. The matter was determined to be a civil dispute.

• An officer was dispatched for a well-being check. The individual was calling for help from inside the home. Access was gained and the person had fallen on the floor and could not get up. The officer made the person as comfortable as possible, until EMS arrived and transported them to the hospital.

Friday, September 18

• An officer issued an appearance citation to a 70-year-old woman for Trespassing.

• An officer was dispatched for a gas line leak, after an appliance line was disconnected. The residents of the house were evacuated while Reed City Fire and DTE Energy turned off the gas and vented the home. The resident was advised to only allow qualified people to remove gas lines from appliances.

• An officer investigated a child falling from playground equipment with possible injuries. EMS transported the child to the hospital to be evaluated.

• An officer was called for a Domestic Assault incident. The 27-year-old male suspect was arrested for active warrants of parole violations and other offenses. Local charges are pending for multiple Assault-related crimes. The subject was transported to Osceol County Jail without incident. This case has been turned over to the prosecutor.

Saturday, September 19

• An officer followed-up on open cases and investigations, performed traffic patrol, and security checks.

• An officer located a juvenile in the early morning hours that had walked away from a local juvenile facility. The juvenile was transported back to the facility. The juvenile tried to leave again for the same reason later that day, but was picked up.

Sunday, September 20

• An officer responded to an individual requesting mental health support. The person was transported willingly to RCH for evaluation without incident.

• An officer took a complaint of an unwanted juvenile on private property. The caregiver was located and advised of the situation. The caregiver agreed to resolve the issue by supervising more closely.

• An officer located a suspicious person sitting near the roadway. The individual was identified and had only sat down to rest before continuing on their way.

• An officer was dispatched for an Assault incident. A report has been sent to the prosecutor and probate court for possible charges on the juvenile suspect.

Monday, September 21

• An officer took a noise complaint that had happened the night prior.

• An officer located an individual for a well-being check over concerns of a possible Domestic Assault incident. The individual denied that an assault had occurred, and stated they were only arguing. They were told to call if help was needed.

• An officer was called for a suspicious person/vehicle at a local business. The person was identified and later left the location.

• An officer was dispatched for a well-being check. The person and vehicle described by the caller were not located in the area described. The area was patrolled and no more detailed information could be given by the complainant. 

• An officer located an individual for a well-being check due to mental health concerns. The person agreed to transport to RCH for evaluation. Transport was without incident.

Tuesday, September 22

• An officer assisted CPS with an interview on a complaint of possible Criminal Sexual Conduct. The matter has been unfounded

• An officer attempted contact for interviews regarding an alleged Criminal Sexual Conduct event. Contact with individuals involved scheduling interviews, which is still pending.

• An officer took a complaint of Assault. Multiple interviews were done and evidence was documented. The case has been submitted to the prosecutor.

Wednesday, September 23

• An officer took a complaint that turned out to be only civil in nature. All parties were interviewed. Three different trespass notices were served as a result of this case.

• An officer was called for a civil dispute. Both parties agreed to separate.

Thursday, September 24

• Officers assisted CPS with interviews for an assault investigation. The matter is under further investigation.

• An officer was dispatched for a noise complaint at an apartment complex. Contact was attempted, but no one answered the door at the time. Management has been advised.

• An officer took a complaint of harassment. The subject was identified and advised to cease the activity. The person agreed to stop.

• An officer located an open storage unit during patrol. The unit owner was contacted and came to the unit right away to secure it. Nothing appeared disturbed.

Friday, September 25

• An officer took a complaint on an injury that occurred at a business. The caller was advised since is was private property, it was a civil matter. The business owner was advised on the cause of the injury.

• An officer performed a civil standby for a landlord/tenant transaction. No issues occurred and parties concluded their business peacefully.

• An officer identified and located the owner of a lost card. The card was returned to the owner’s home.

Saturday, September 26

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

• An officer was called to the hospital for a juvenile patient refusing to leave after treatment. The individual was advised the proper way to handle their grievance was through their DHS case worker and they agreed to go back to a juvenile facility. DHS has been advised.

• An officer was called for a noise complaint. Upon arrival, there was no noise that could be heard. The complainant was advised to call when the situation was actually occurring, so a citation could be issued.

Sunday, September 27

• An officer performed a well-being check. The individual was located and currently on the phone with CMH. An interview was done and the individual stated they were fine and in no danger.

• Officers performed area traffic patrols, security checks, case follow-up activities on open cases, and citation activities.

The Lake County Sheriff’s Office is seeking the public’s help in identifying individuals and a vehicle potentially involved in a recent larceny.

It happened at 5:45 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 7, at the Ace Hardware store in Baldwin. The vehicle is described as a mid-2010s Hyundai Elantra.

The Lake County Sheriff’s Office appreciates the public’s assistance in this investigation.

“These individuals are being sought for identification purposes in connection with an ongoing investigation, and no determination of guilt should be inferred,” the Lake County Sheriff’s Office said.

Those with information on the individuals or the vehicle can contact Deputy Hickman at KHickmann@co.lake.mi.us or Lake County Central Dispatch at 231-745-2711.

Photos and release information courtesy of Lake County Sheriff's Office.

Monday, Sep. 28

• At 11:20 p.m., deputies made a traffic stop in Grant Township. The traffic stop resulted in the male driver and female passenger being arrested on warrants. Both were lodged at the Mecosta County Jail.

Calls for Service: 15

Traffic Accidents: 5

Tuesday, Sep. 29

• No arrests reported.

Calls for Service: 10

Traffic Accidents: 1

Wednesday, Sep. 30

• At 1:41 p.m. deputies made a warrant arrest in Wheatland Township. A male subject was arrested on two different warrants. He was lodged at the Mecosta County Jail.

Calls for Service: 22

Traffic Accidents: 0

Thursday, Oct. 1

• No arrests reported.

Calls for Service: 10

Traffic Accidents: 5

Friday, Oct. 2

• No arrests reported.

Calls for Service: 15

Traffic Accidents: 6

Saturday, Oct. 3

• No arrests reported.

Calls for Service: 7

Traffic Accidents: 2

Sunday, Oct. 4

• No arrests reported.

Calls for Service: 15

Traffic Accidents: 7

The Big Rapids City Commission voted unanimously Monday to authorize a multi-year deer cull.

Under a contract with the U.S. Department of Agriculture Wildlife Services, the city can obtain deer removal permits and remove deer in high-complaint areas.

The three-year agreement takes effect Dec. 1, 2026. The cost is not to exceed $15,000 a year.

“Last time we signed a three-year contract, I think it was $21,000,” City Manager Mark Gifford said. “This time it's for $15,000, which might mean a slightly smaller amount of deer removed, but we believe that it's one of those things that it's more consistency than anything. If we consistently do it, it shows we're recognizing and addressing a problem that they have in their neighborhood or near their home or business.”

Culls typically occur between Jan. 1 and March 1 during nighttime hours, with trained USDA staff using suppressed rifles.

Big Rapids Police Chief David Flore will work with the USDA to identify areas with high deer numbers. Areas mentioned during the meeting include Sherman Street, Sanborn Avenue, Perry Avenue and State Street. Ferris State University property may be included, because it borders some of those areas.

“We're polling the community to make sure that we address any target areas,” Flore said. “We have received what I would think is substantial feedback, which is consistent with what patrol sees driving around as well.”

The M-37 Meat Shack will process deer taken in the cull, and the meat will be donated locally through the Hunters Against Hunger program.

According to District Health Department #10, a harmful algae bloom is still present on Lake Cadillac in Wexford County.

The bloom has been present since Friday, Aug. 28. A no-body contact advisory is still in effect at this time.

"DHD#10 has continued to monitor the HAB and is reminding residents that the HAB is still present and that the no-body contact advisory is still in effect," DHD#10 said. "Signs are posted at affected public access sites of the lake to notify individuals to avoid contact with the water in that area as a precautionary measure."

For more information on harmful algae blooms, visit here: Harmful Algal Blooms (MI EGLE).

_{Release information courtesy of Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy.}

On Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026, first responders were dispatched to Fork Township for a fatal car crash.

The wreck occurred sometime before 4:54 p.m. near 30th Avenue (M-66) and Evergreen Road near Merrill Lake.

According to deputies, a 37-year-old man from Clare County was found dead inside his vehicle. It is believed that his white Chevrolet Impala was traveling northbound on M-66 and went off the roadway.

“The vehicle traveled down an embankment and through a wooded area before coming to rest in a cornfield on the east side of the roadway,” Mecosta County sheriff’s deputies said. “The driver was not wearing a seat belt at the time of the crash. The cause of the crash is unknown at this time and currently under investigation.”

Anyone with information on the crash is asked to contact Deputy Disu at 231-592-0150.

Deputies were assisted at the scene by Fork Township Fire/Rescue, Barryton Fire, Mecosta County Emergency Medical Services, Mid-Michigan Medical Examiner’s Group, Daggett Funeral Home, Hilltop Towing and Meceola Central Dispatch.

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

The Osceola County Sheriff's Office is asking for public assistance regarding a recent crash in LeRoy Township

The two-vehicle wreck occurred around 1:35 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 3. One driver, who was driving a white Chevrolet Silverado, fled the scene after the crash. It is believed the truck suffered damage on the driver's side.

No images of the wreck, or the truck, were obtained by the Sheriff's Office. If anyone has information about the vehicle or the driver’s identity, please contact Deputy Dougherty at 231-872-9910.

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

During October, Menards in Big Rapids will serve as a food pantry drop-off site.

“We are excited to participate in this wonderful opportunity while lending a helping hand in the community,” a Menards representative said.

Donated items will go to Manna Pantry of Big Rapids, which serves people in need in Mecosta and Osceola counties.

Nonperishable items that can be donated, many of which are sold at Menards, include cereal, canned soup, pasta, and peanut butter and jelly.

The store is located at 14777 215th Ave., Big Rapids, MI 49307.

A Frost Advisory has been issued by the National Weather Service for parts of West Central Michigan.

The advisory will be in effect from 10 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 2, until 8 a.m. on Saturday, Oct. 3. This will affect Clare, Lake, Mecosta, Newaygo, Osceola, and Wexford counties. 

"Frost could harm sensitive outdoor vegetation and sensitive outdoor plants may be killed if left uncovered," NWS said in an alert. "Take steps now to protect tender plants from the cold."

Hourly WeatherEye forecasts can be heard at the top of the hour on WBRN via 96.5 FM, 1460 AM, WBRN.com and the WBRN mobile app.

Around Mecosta County, arrests for controlled substances are on pace to nearly double from last year.

So far in 2026, the Mecosta County Sheriff’s Office has reported 63 arrests for controlled substances. That is a 61.5% increase from the 2025 total, with three months left in the year.

Mecosta County Sheriff Brian Miller attributes the increase not only to more use, but also to a greater focus on patrol.

“Part of the reason we are seeing the higher numbers of traffic stops and subsequent arrests for possession of methamphetamine is because we are recognizing those who are using the drug and taking enforcement action,” Miller said. “We’ve identified who these people are due to other criminal activity they are involved in.”

The increase also tracks with arrests for cocaine and opiates.

^{Data provided by the Mecosta County Sheriff's Office.}

“The recidivism rate has continued to be a problem, as we are arresting the same people on multiple occasions,” Miller said. “We will continue to be vigilant in our patrols and enforcement action when it comes to methamphetamine and other controlled substances in our community.”

Miller also said many people who have been arrested do not follow through with the rehabilitation they are offered, which has driven the high rate of repeat offenders.

When asked whether the sheriff’s office plans to change its approach, Miller said he believes the problem extends beyond Mecosta County.

“I don’t think our community is any better or worse than any other community right now with this epidemic,” Miller said. “With some of the restrictions from the judicial system, I think the consequences and punishment aren’t where they should be.”

Miller also credited the K-9 unit with improving detection. 

Michigan continues to set records in the number of public school students taking rigorous Advanced Placement (AP) courses and the number performing well on AP exams, according to data released by the College Board and shared today by the Michigan Department of Education (MDE).

AP courses give students an opportunity to take college-level courses while they are still in high school. The College Board, the same not-for-profit organization that administers the SAT, oversees AP exams in a variety of subjects.

In 2026, 69,878 high school students in Michigan took one or more AP exam. That’s an increase of 6% from 65,898 who took at least one exam the year before, which also was a record at the time, and up by nearly 19,000 students from five years before.

This year 94,598 of the AP exams taken by Michigan public school students—or 75% of the 126,480 exams taken—earned scores of 3, 4 or 5 on a scale of 1-5, which means students who took the tests are qualified, well-qualified or extremely qualified. A score of 3 or above often qualifies students for college credit.

In 2026, 53,022 students scored 3, 4 or 5 on a scale of 1-5 on at least one AP exam. That number increased from 49,708 the year before, an increase of 6.7%.

“Michigan students, their families and local educators can be proud of continuing improvements in the number of students taking AP courses and testing well on AP exams,” said State Superintendent Dr. Glenn Maleyko. “Exposure to rigorous, college-level courses in high school prepares our students for their future.”

Even with the record improvements, there is room for further growth in access to AP among Michigan students. While the courses are available to all students either through their local schools or online via Michigan Virtual, only 52% of Michigan high school directly offer AP classes.

In addition to AP, Michigan has been working to increase student access to other rigorous learning opportunities—Career and Technical Education, dual enrollment in credit-bearing college classes during high school, Early Middle College and the International Baccalaureate program.

These opportunities contribute to progress toward Goal 4 of Michigan’s Top 10 Strategic Education Plan, to expand secondary learning opportunities for all students, and Goal 5, to increase the percentage of all students who graduate from high school.

Local school districts and MDE have worked to raise awareness among high school students and parents about the availability of and importance of AP classes. In recent years, MDE has been one of only two states to mail letters to parents of high school students who were identified by the College Board’s AP Potential Tool as likely to be successful in AP coursework based on their PSAT scores. In the 2025-26 school year, 144,027 Michigan 10th- and 11th-graders took the PSAT.

A $2.8 million investment from the Michigan Legislature and Gov. Gretchen Whitmer in the fiscal year 2027 state budget has reduced barriers to AP, International Baccalaureate and the College-Level Examination Program by covering or reducing fees for income-eligible students and families.

“We want to continue improving access to AP courses,” said State Board of Education President Dr. Pamela Pugh. “It’s important for there to be equitable access to AP. I am especially pleased that AP participation and success are on the rise for students of color.”

Since 2022, the College Board said AP participation by Black students in Michigan has more than doubled, from 2,778 to 5,653, a 103% increase. Hispanic participation is up 64%, from 3,457 to 5,686. That compares to overall participation growing 34%.

The College Board said 233 of 663 Michigan districts, or 35%, don’t have direct access to AP. The lack of access is concentrated in small and rural districts.

_{Release courtesy of Michigan Department of Education.}