On Tuesday, June 9, Mecosta Township Fire and Rescue and Mecosta County EMS personnel were honored for their heroic actions to save a newborn child’s life last year.

The medical emergency took place on Aug. 29, 2025, following a home birth in which the newborn was not breathing. Upon arrival, responders found that the mother had established an airway and was providing ventilations.

After establishing CPR and maintaining cycles for about five minutes, the newborn regained a pulse with a normal rate. The mother was also treated on site for post-delivery complications. Both the child and the mother were eventually transported to the hospital and have made a full recovery.

During the presentation, four members were awarded the prestigious Life-Saving Award by township board members: Chief Anthony Peacock, EMT-B Morgan Bennett, Firefighter/EMT-B John Hodson and Firefighter Blake Gulick.

Those four, plus six others, were honored with a letter of commendation: Paramedic April Bisson, Paramedic Steven Headland, EMT-B Mara Bailey, EMT-B Grayslin Walch, EMT-B Cameren Cass and off-duty Paramedic Kyle Podeszwik of Osceola County EMS. Dispatch Supervisor Tracey Clark was also awarded a Meritorious Service Award.

“The Mecosta Township Fire Department commends the efforts of all personnel involved for their heroic actions and exceptional performance,” Peacock said. “Their exemplary service reflects the highest standards of the fire and EMS professions and reinforces the vital role first responders serve within our community.”

The mother and child were in attendance during the meeting.

_{Release and photo courtesy of Mecosta County Township Fire & Rescue. Photo credit to Austin Chastain.}

Regional non-profit, 8CAP, is hosting a shoe drive on Sunday afternoon, June 14, at the Tractor Supply location on Perry Avenue in Big Rapids.

The collection period will be from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. and all the shoes will be repurposed, refurbished, and redistributed to people in need.

"The heavier the shoe, the better," Coordinator Stephanie Rockafellow said. "They have to be gently used, or new, with no holes or rips. They also can't be wet or muddy."

Accepted shoes include tennis shoes, work boots, water shoes, sandals, flip flops, slippers, and sporting cleats. No bladed shoes, like ice skates roller skates, or rollerblades, will be accepted.

"Just drive up and you don't even have to get out of your car," Rokafellow said. "We did this in Greenville a couple weeks ago, so we would really like the Big Rapids community to beat their 979 pairs of shoes."

8CAP is a community action agency serving central Michigan with programs devoted to early childhood education support, emergency shelter help, food assistance, court appointed special advocacy, and senior volunteer programs.

For more information, visit https://8cap.org/.

Big Rapids city commissioners will meet Monday, June 15, to discuss various proposals.

One agenda item is a resolution to purchase the property at 126 S. DeKrafft Ave. The 0.348-acre parcel would cost $16,000 at fair market value. If approved, the city would sell and transfer the property to the Big Rapids Housing Commission. This would allow construction of a single-family home in partnership with the MOISD building trades program.

Commissioners also will discuss installation of traffic control signs at the new Sandy Acres housing development. The 54-home development on the east side of Big Rapids held its ribbon-cutting ceremony Wednesday, June 10. The resolution would approve purchase of stop signs, “No Outlet” signs and “Dead End” signs.

Other agenda items include:

• Approving a ground lease agreement for private hangars at Roben-Hood Airport with Timothy Buck

• Year-end budget amendments for Fiscal Year 2025-2026

• Approving an amendment to Section 62.10 of the City of Big Rapids non-bargaining personnel policy and procedure manual authorizing payment of longevity back pay to certain current employees

• Approving an application for Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) grant

• Approving proposals from Top Line Electric, LLC for a WIN-911 prop perpetual license and customer care package and the replacement of Control Panel-1 PLC at the Wastewater Treatment Plant

• Authorizing a listing with RE/MAX Together Realty to sell the property located at 318 S Third Avenue

All commission meetings are open to the public and streamed live on the City of Big Rapids YouTube channel. The meeting is slated to start at 6:30 p.m.

Monday, May 25

• An officer wrote a citation for public marijuana use at a local park.

• An individual came to the Reed City Police Department with a found wallet. The individual was called and the wallet was returned.

• An officer conducted a well-being check on an elderly individual. The individual was found at home safe and with family.

• An officer was called for a possible intoxicated teen dancing in an intersection. No one matching the description could be located anywhere in the area.

Tuesday, May 26

• An officer took a complaint of a propane tank in use at a local rental. The landlord was notified and the situation was resolved.

• Officers were called for a well-being check. Upon arrival, the individual was found across the street at the neighbor’s home, safe and sound.

• An officer took a statement and evidence for a property damage accident without injuries. A report is on file.

• An officer was called for a trailer inspection to get a title. Items needed were listed and given to the owner to attain, prior to getting a title.

• An officer was called for a well-being check due to mental health. The individual was located and found to be their normal self.

• An officer was called for a complaint of possible improper contact between juveniles. After looking into the matter, nothing was found to support the allegation.

• An officer took a complaint of two young children in a vehicle who were honking the horn and causing a disturbance with no adult supervision. The children were located, identified, and the parent was located. This case was referred to CPS.

Wednesday, May 27

• An officer was called for a well-being check. The individual was found to have overslept.

• Officers served a trespass notice at a property owner’s request without incident.

• Officers were called to assist with a disorderly inmate from a detention facility, who had been taken to the hospital. The officer assisted the other agency in gaining control and restraining the inmate.

• Numerous abatement notices were issued for violation of city ordinances.

Thursday, May 28

• Officers patrolled, performed security checks at businesses, issued citations for ordinances and tickets for traffic violations, and followed up on cases.

Friday, May 29

• Officers were requested to identify a bone located during an excavation. It was found to be a bone from a deer.

• Officers performed numerous abatement and ordinance violation checks, traffic stops, investigation follow-ups, and security checks.

Saturday, May 30

• Officers were called to an alarm at a local business. During the search, a bat was located flying around inside. The building was cleared and secured.

Sunday, May 31

• Officers were dispatched to an out of control pre-teen. The situation was calmed and information was forwarded to juvenile's probation officer.

• Officers were called for a complaint of barking dogs. The animals were not outside or barking on arrival. The owner was given a warning.

Monday, June 1

• An officer was called for theft. The matter is under investigation.

• An officer was called for vandalism complaint. It is believed the neighboring juveniles were throwing eggs at a house. The matter is under investigation.

• Officers followed up on various abatement violations and performed security checks and patrol duties.

Tuesday, June 2

• An officer was dispatched for an area check for someone screaming for help. An adult individual with mental health issues was found to be distraught over family matters. The individual stated they didn’t realize they were being loud. They were determined to be okay and no further problems were reported.

• An officer was called for property damage at a local business. An order was placed and then canceled, in order to change to a larger size of the same item. An independent delivery driver then became angry over not receiving both orders. He damaged a toilet in the business before throwing the order out his car window and driving off. The matter is under investigation.

• An officer was dispatched to a local park for a weapons complaint. The teen caller had been arguing with an unknown male online, who had showed a picture of someone with a plastic firearm. The matter was unfounded and parents were made aware.

• An officer was dispatched to a residence for a domestic incident. It was determined to be a verbal argument between roommates.

• An officer was called for a civil issue with a disobedient juvenile. Statements were taken and a report is on file.

Wednesday, June 3

• Officers were called for a complaint of a door alarm and loud music. An individual was located asleep on the couch. The music was found to be coming from the television and the door alarm was to alert the individual if her children tried to leave without her knowledge. A verbal warning was issued.

• An officer conducted a joint investigation with CPS for a possible criminal sexual conduct matter. Upon investigation, the matter was unfounded.

• An officer located two individuals going door to door. Subjects were identified and advised of the 'Peddler Ordinance' and procedure to obtain a permit. Their employer came and picked them up.

• An officer located a curfew violation during patrol. Individuals were identified and two verbal warnings were given. The individuals agreed to go home.

• Officers were called to a two-vehicle crash with propery damage. Both vehicles could not be driven and were towed away. A citation was issued for failing to yield to oncoming traffic and a report is on file.

• Officers were called to a well-being check. No one responded to various attempts of contact, the property was secure with no signs of forced entry. Nothing suspicious could be found at this time. A report is on file.

• Officers were called for a theft complaint. An investigation produced the items. The matter was unfounded.

Thursday, June 4

• An officer was dispatched for a parking complaint. The vehicle turned out to be a friend. The complainant did not wish further action.

• An officer was dispatched for a suicidal individual. The person requested a ride to hospital for treatment. The individual was transported without incident.

Friday, June 5

• Officers conducted follow up investigations and traffic enforcement.

Saturday, June 6

• An officer took a complaint of harassment. All involved were advised to have no contact with each other.

• Officers took a complaint of suspicious camera placement at a local business. It was determined a child had pulled on the camera cable, causing it to fall off a shelf and point at a 45-degree angle up from the floor. The owner had not had a chance to put the camera back due to other customers. The matter was unfounded.

• An officer was called for an alarm at a local business. The employer and staff unknowingly tripped the alarm, and it was turned off.

• An officer received a fire ordinance violation complaint. The homeowners were found to be compliant with city ordinance.

Sunday, June 7

• An officer was dispatched to assist the Osceola County Sheriff's Department on a well-being check with a possibly intoxicated individual, who had the potential to be dangerous. The individual was talked to and called for friends. The individual was released into the friend’s care without incident.

The Small Business Association of Michigan (SBAM) Foundation will serve as the hub for a new statewide effort focused on helping child care business owners start, grow, and stay open by connecting them with specialized business support and resources. 

Led by the Michigan Department of Lifelong Education, Advancement, and Potential (MiLEAP), in partnership with the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) and Pulse at the W.E. Upjohn Institute, the initiative will help child care business owners navigate challenges such as licensing requirements, staffing shortages, municipal obstacles and sustainable pricing – issues that often make it difficult for them to remain open and expand access for families.  

“Child care educators and business owners are often faced with unique business challenges while also working every day to provide quality and consistent care for Michigan children and families,” said Dr. Beverly Walker-Griffea, director of MiLEAP. “This new initiative is about helping them succeed by connecting them with the right business tools and support systems so they can remain open, expand, and continue serving the families who rely on them.”

The initiative will use MEDC’s existing Small Business Support Hub (SBSH) program as a model to create a network of support focused specifically on child care business while expanding access in communities that need it most, including those with limited child care options. 

“Child care is essential infrastructure for Michigan’s workforce and economy,” said Sarah Miller, executive director of the SBAM Foundation. “By connecting child care educators with the support, coaching, and resources they need to succeed, this initiative will help strengthen small businesses, expand access for working families, and create more stable communities across the state.” 

The effort is supported through the new Child Care Small Business and Economic Development Integration Grant, funded by the federal Preschool Development Grant Birth through Five (PDG B-5). Proposals for the grant were due in early April. Implementation is already underway. 

Pulse will provide support by bringing research, data, and cross-sector collaboration expertise to the new hub. 

“Strong partnerships between early childhood and economic development leaders are critical to creating lasting solutions for families and educators,” said Kathy Szenda Wilson, co-executive director of Pulse. 

For child care business owners, the impact is significant. 

This effort also supports Michigan’s broader work to expand access to PreK for All and strengthen early literacy through the Every Child Reads initiative led by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer. By helping child care business owners succeed, Michigan is working to ensure more children can access early learning opportunities and build strong reading skills from the start. 

This investment reflects Michigan’s commitment to expanding access to affordable, high-quality child care while supporting the educators who make it possible.

_{Release courtesy of Michigan Department of Lifelong Education, Advancement, and Potential.}

The Mecosta County Parks are once again kicking off summer with our 11th Annual Community Open House Weekend.

From Friday, June 12 through Sunday, June 14, 2026, vehicle entrance fees to all Mecosta County Parks will be waived, allowing visitors to enjoy free day-use access throughout the weekend.

The Community Open House weekend provides an opportunity for Mecosta County residents and visitors to experience the many recreational opportunities available throughout the county park system. The event is coordinated in conjunction with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources Free Fishing Weekend, which takes place June 13-14. During the Free Fishing Weekend, no Michigan fishing license is required; however, all other fishing regulations and boating laws remain in effect.

Families are encouraged to spend time together outdoors while enjoying the many activities available within the park system. Whether casting a line, boating, swimming, hiking, mountain biking, participating in family-friendly programs, or simply relaxing in nature, visitors are sure to create lasting memories.

Mecosta County Parks participating in the Community Open House include Brower Park, School Section Lake Park, Merrill-Gorrel Park, Paris Park, and Davis Bridge Park. Day-use visiting hours are from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. each day of the event.

The weekend also provides one of the most affordable camping opportunities of the year, as overnight campers will not be required to pay additional vehicle entrance fees normally associated with their stay. Campsites and cabins can be reserved online through the Mecosta County Parks reservation system.

For additional information about park amenities, camping opportunities, and scheduled summer events, visit the Mecosta County Parks website at www.MecostaCountyParks.com. Follow the Mecosta County Park Commission or any of the individual park’s pages on Facebook to keep up to date with the latest news, events, and updates.

The Mecosta County Parks invite the community to take a moment to unplug, explore the outdoors, and discover the wide variety of recreational opportunities offered through the county parks during this special community open house weekend.

_{Photo and release courtesy of Mecosta County Parks Department.}

A grand opening date has been announced for the new Jim Crow Museum at Ferris State University.

According to a recent Facebook post, the museum plans to open on Wednesday, September 30, and Thursday, October 1. This falls the week after Ferris' homecoming, which is slated for Saturday, September 26.

The original museum space closed Nov. 26, 2025. The new 26,000-square-foot building is located near the main entrance at the intersection of State Street and Perry Avenue on the east side of campus. It will house the former museum’s more than 30,000-piece collection of artifacts for public viewing.

"Our new approach is to not focus so much on the hateful objects, but instead focus on people pushing back against those objects," Dr. David Pilgrim said on a promotional video. "We've evolved the (previous) space, but you're not going to believe the work we are able to when we move into the new facility."

The exterior of the new building features a noticeably artisan-crafted “scrim wall” facade designed to emulate the flow of the Mississippi River. The centerpiece will be a 7,500-square-foot permanent exhibit gallery.

The museum has been on campus for more than two decades. It began in a 500-square-foot room in the Starr Building and was most recently housed in the 3,500-square-foot lower level of the FLITE Library since 2012.

Rockford Construction, a Grand Rapids-based firm, led the project. The top-tier contracting group has completed more than 7,000 projects valued at nearly $9 billion. Other projects include the Amway Stadium in Grand Rapids, Northern Michigan University’s Harden Hall and the Kalamazoo Event Center.

The National Weather Service is forecasting dangerous heat and severe weather for West Michigan on Wednesday, June 10, and Thursday, June 11.

Here is a daily breakdown:

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 10

Peak heat will build across the region in the afternoon and hold through around 7 p.m., fueling significant atmospheric instability that will linger into the overnight hours. A cluster of storms is expected to cross Lake Michigan along the low-level jet after 7 p.m., with some leftover showers possible until 3 a.m. Thursday. 

The Storm Prediction Center has placed the western half of the Lower Peninsula in a Slight risk (Level 2 of 5) for severe weather. Damaging winds and locally heavy rainfall will be the primary risks with this system overnight. 

• Peak heat index values: 91-98 degrees (NWS)

• Damaging winds: 15% to 29% (NWS)

• Large hail: 15% to 29% (NWS)

• Tornadoes: 2% to 5% (NWS)

THURSDAY, JUNE 11

While dependent on the overnight system, Thursday night’s system appears to be the most potent for destructive storms. If temperatures heat back up similar to Wednesday afternoon — potentially as early as 9 a.m. — the atmosphere could become favorable for storms because of high shear values and strong instability. Arrival of storms is expected after 3 p.m.

The SPC has placed areas south of U.S. 10 and west of U.S. 127 in an Enhanced risk (Level 3 of 5). All hazards will be possible, including damaging winds, hail and even tornadoes if cells break off and remain isolated in the southwest portion of Michigan. 

• Peak heat index values: 88-96 degrees (NWS)

• Damaging winds: 45 to 59% (NWS)*

• Large hail: 5% to 14% (NWS)*

• Tornadoes: 5% to 9% (NWS)*

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. For more on the forecast, visit https://bigrapidsdailynews.com/forecast.

_{*Updated on Thursday, June 11, at 2:30 p.m.}

Students in Ferris State University’s inaugural Cold Case Investigations class say they are making progress on a mystery that has been unsolved for years.

Dr. Steven Amey, a former St. Clair County Sheriff’s detective and tenured professor in the Ferris State School of Criminal Justice, said students laid the groundwork for their investigation by organizing decades of investigative material, converting thousands of pages into searchable Optical Character Recognition documents.

Student work generated new investigative questions and led to evidence being resubmitted for modern forensic analysis. This Cold Case class reinforced real-world investigative context.

 “I could not be more proud of the first group of Ferris State cold case students who stepped up to get involved and tackle this work,” Amey said. “Without a doubt the students will become some of the best in their fields they pursue, having an eye for the attention to details.”

Students are taking a fresh look at the 2010 death of Kristin Spires, who was discovered in a remote part of Mecosta County.

Students recently revisited the crime scene to at least one location in the investigation. It added the real-life experience of being present at the exact location.

“We are looking for closure and an answer for the family,” said Mecosta County Sheriff Brian Miller, who spoke to the class. “They deserve an answer to what happened to their daughter. It is one of those cases that you will never forget about." 

Amey said the students put a fresh set of eyes on this case and helped move it forward.  

“Technological advances and good old detective work are getting this case closer to being solved,” he said.

Weekly student collaboration allowed timelines, facts, and theories to emerge clearly, breathing new life into a case that had been dormant for many years.

Students met with expert guest speakers, exploring the realities of modern cold case investigations.

Senior Assistant Prosecutor Amy Goodrich of St. Clair County discussed cold case prosecution and DNA evidence, including the role of Othram Labs.

Michigan State Police forensic biology expert Billie Hooker outlined forensic laboratory options across Michigan.

Mecosta County Sheriff Brian Miller and Undersheriff Casey Nemeth provided candid insight into investigative challenges.

Amey said students taking the class said they learned about values of teamwork, organization, and research.

“I will definitely take away the importance of having fresh eyes look at cold cases,” one student wrote in a post-class assessment. “I believe that as a class we were able to notice details and perspectives … that may not have viewed as significant at the time. I also think the advancements in DNA technology can make a big difference in helping investigators solve cases years later.”

Forensic science is a growing field, with the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting a 14% increase in employment for forensic science technicians from 2023-2033 — significantly faster than the average for all occupations.

The demand is driven by increasing police caseloads and advancements in scientific and technological tools.

The Cold Case class is open to all majors and is an elective. There is an application process and students selected must be willing to submit to a criminal background check and sign a non-disclosure agreement.

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

Monday, June 1

Calls for Service: 9

Traffic Accidents: 3

Tuesday, June 2

• At 5:51 p.m., deputies responded to a road runoff complaint in Big Rapids Township. A male driver was arrested for Operating While Intoxicated. He was lodged at the Mecosta County Jail.

• At 9:36 p.m., deputies made a warrant arrest in Aetna Township. A female subject was arrested on a warrant. She was lodged at the Mecosta County Jail.

Calls for Service: 12

Traffic Accidents: 4

Wednesday, June 3

Calls for Service: 16

Traffic Accidents: 3

Thursday, June 4

• No incidents/calls reported.

Friday, June 5

Calls for Service: 17

Traffic Accidents: 4

Saturday, June 6

Calls for Service: 6

Traffic Accidents: 1

Sunday, June 7

Calls for Service: 11

Traffic Accidents: 5

On Sunday, June 7, emergency personnel responded to a crash at Pierce Road and Stanwood Drive in Stanwood.

According to deputies, the collision between two vehicles occurred around 4:41 p.m. The investigation shows an 84-year-old man from Shelby was traveling westbound on Pierce Road and blew through a stop sign due to a medical emergency. His vehicle struck another vehicle driven by a 73-year-old woman from Morley, who was attempting to turn onto Pierce Road.

The man was flown by AeroMed to Butterworth Hospital in Grand Rapids. The woman suffered no injuries.

Deputies were assisted by Meceola Central Dispatch, Mecosta County EMS, Mecosta Township Fire, Currie’s Towing and B’s Towing.

On Friday, June 5, Gov. Whitmer requested that President Trump declare a major disaster in response to severe storms, heavy rain, rapid snowmelt and nine confirmed tornadoes that caused widespread damage and severe flooding in 43 counties across Michigan between April 10 and 21.

If approved, the governor’s request would allow federal aid to start flowing directly to families, businesses, and communities.

“The severe storms, flooding and tornadoes that struck Michigan in April left a devastating impact on communities across more than half of the state, destroying and damaging homes, businesses, and roads,” said Whitmer. “While recovery efforts are underway, many residents and local governments face difficult and costly challenges. This request for a major disaster declaration will help ensure affected families and communities have access to the resources they need to recover, rebuild and move forward.” 

The requested activation would apply all the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) Individual Assistance (IA) programs for 37 counties, including these local counties: Clare, Lake, Mecosta, Missaukee, Montcalm, Newaygo, Osceola, and Wexford. Individual assistance programs would direct help for homeowners and renters.  

All categories of the Public Assistance (PA) program have been requested for 26 counties, including these local counties:  Lake, Mecosta, Missaukee, Newaygo, Osceola, and Wexford. The PA program works as reimbursement for local governments, certain non-profit entities, and tribal agencies for response costs, debris removal, and repair of damaged infrastructure

Multiple rounds of severe thunderstorms and heavy rainfall between April 13 and 18 produced tornadoes, damaging winds, large hail, flash flooding and major river flooding across much of Michigan. Hundreds of residents were displaced or stranded by floodwaters, numerous roads were flooded or washed out, and several dams required close monitoring due to overtopping and failure concerns. During April, the National Weather Service issued a record 13 flash flood warnings, 24 flood warnings and 25 flood advisories across Michigan. While floodwaters have largely receded, recovery efforts remain ongoing as some homeowners are still dealing with the lasting effects of floodwaters. 

“The scale and severity of this disaster demanded an unprecedented damage assessment effort involving local, state and federal partners,” said Col. James F. Grady II, director of the Michigan State Police and state director of Emergency Management and Homeland Security. "Federal disaster assistance is vital for community recovery, enabling the restoration of essential services and the rebuilding of homes and infrastructure." 

To evaluate eligibility for a major disaster declaration, the State of Michigan conducted its largest Joint Preliminary Damage Assessment (PDAs) to date with FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). These assessments determined that the extent of damage met federal thresholds for a Major Disaster Declaration.

Here is the timeline of actions taken during the storms:

• April 10 - Govenor Whitmer activated the State Emergency Operations Center (SEOC) and declared a state of emergency for Cheboygan County due to the threat of overtopping at the Cheboygan Lock and Dam Complex, which remains in effect.
• April 14 - Governor Whitmer elevated the SEOC activation to monitor weather-related events statewide.
• April 15 - Govenor Whitmer expanded the state of emergency declaration to Alcona, Allegan, Alpena, Antrim, Arenac, Barry, Benzie, Charlevoix, Clare, Crawford, Emmet, Grand Traverse, Gratiot, Iosco, Kalkaska, Lake, Leelanau, Manistee, Menominee, Missaukee, Montcalm, Montmorency, Newaygo, Oceana, Ogemaw, Oscoda, Osceola, Presque Isle, Roscommon, Saginaw, Shiawassee and Wexford counties.
• April 18 - State of emergency was expanded to include the counties of Eaton, Jackson, Kalamazoo, Mecosta, and Muskegon, and the cities of Ann Arbor and Kalamazoo.
• April 20 - State of emergency was again expanded to include the counties of Iron and Marquette.
• April 28 - State of emergency was extended a final time to include Tuscola County and the Village of Holly.  

Governor Whitmer’s request will be reviewed by FEMA which will advise President Trump on whether a disaster declaration is warranted. The final decision rests with the president. 

For more information on how to prepare before, during and after an emergency or disaster, visit www.michigan.gov/miready and follow MSP/EMHSD on X and Facebook. 

_{Release courtesy of Gov. Whitmer.}

As the 2026 CSAA Boys Golf season comes to a close, we look back on the incredible season for all teams involved.

This year again dominated by the Big Rapids Cardinals (1620), as they continue their streak of winning the conference every year since joining in 2006. Tri County finished as the runner up with a score of 1775, followed by Newaygo (3rd - 1790), Central Montcalm (4th - 1934), Reed City (5th – 2013), Grant (6th – 2057), Kent City (7th – 2112), Lakeview (8th – 2135), and Chippewa Hills (9th – 2180).

Here are this year's all-conference honorees, based on this year's championship results:

2026 All-CSAA-Blue Boys Golf First Team

• Krew Bolby, Big Rapids, 1st Place
• Gabe Schneider, Big Rapids, 2nd Place
• Trevor McNees, Tri County, 3rd Place
• Owen Strickler, Big Rapids, 4th Place
• Blake Gentz, Tri County, 5th Place
• Seth Perdue, Big Rapids, 6th Place
• Jonathan Bischoff, Newaygo, 7th Place
• Porter Slominski, Newaygo, 8th Place
• Jack Mercer, Newaygo, 9th Place

2026 All-CSAA-Blue Boys Golf Honorable Mentions

• Ethan Hanson, Reed City, 10th Place
• Wyatt Satler, Central Montcalm, 11th Place
• Max Bollman, Big Rapids, 12th Place
• Easton Swanson, Grant, 13th Place
• Jared Guerra, Tri County, 14th Place
• Gage Rasch, Grant, 15th Place
• Camden Reyburn, Newaygo, 16th Place
• Ethan Stuhan, Kent City, 17th Place
• Miles Wormmeester, Newaygo, T-18th Place
• Landon Lytle, Reed City, T-18th Place
• Carson Stout, Lakeview, T-18th Place

Montcalm County Sheriff's deputies recently responded to the area near Vickeryville Road and Colby Road for a significant crash involving a rollback truck and an e-bike.

The incident happened around 8:30 a.m. Friday morning. According to the investigation, a 19-year-old Crystal man was travelling east on Colby Road and failed to stop at a stop sigh. A 2020 Mack truck, driven by a 26-year-old Fenwick man, the collided with the e-bike and sent the 19-year-old flying off. No alcohol or speeding were tabbed with the wreck.

The Crystal man, who wasn't wearing a helmet at the time of the crash, was flown via helocopter to the hospital with serious injuries. The Fenwick man was not injured.

The Sheriff’s Office was assisted by Montcalm County Central Dispatch, Montcalm County Emergency Services, Michigan State Police – Motor Carrier Division, AeroMed, and the Crystal Township Fire Department.

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

This year's track and field season has come to a close, which means its time to reveal the standout athletes in the conference. 

On the boys side this year, the Kent City Eagles won the head-to-head title and the championship meet in league action. Central Montcalm and Lakeview shared the runner-up spot, followed by Morley Stanwood in fourth and White Cloud in fifth.

Here are the 22 first teamers and 11 honorable mentions for CSAA-White track and field in 2026:

2026 All-CSAA-White Boys Track & Field First Team

• Michael Almas, Morley Stanwood, senior
• Blake Carr, Kent City, junior
• Giancarlo Coronado, Kent City, senior
• Ayden DeVoogd, Kent City, senior
• Kyler Fertig, Central Montcalm, senior
• Kale Freeland, Kent City, senior
• Kolton Fox-Wellman, Kent City, freshman
• Gage Hoffman, Central Montcalm, senior
• Jonah Hawthorne, Kent City, sophomore
• Brandon Juarez, Kent City, senior
• Mason Lincoln, Lakeview, sophomore
• Peyton Marks, Central Montcalm, sophomore
• Mason Niewiadomski, Lakeview, junior
• Wyatt Orr, Lakeview, senior
• Peyton Powell, Kent City, freshman
• Damen Reed, Lakeview, senior
• Cooper Tiffany, Lakeview, junior
• Jace Vaughn, Central Montcalm, sophomore
• Victor Vazquez, Kent City, freshman
• Dylan Vining, Morley Stanwood, senior
• Aiden Willett, Lakeview, freshman
• McCoy Wernholm, Central Montcalm, senior

2026 All-CSAA-White Boys Track & Field Honorable Mentions

• Logan Danielson, Kent City, senior
• DJ Hansen, Lakeview, junior
• Colton Kahler, Central Montcalm, senior
• Omari Lane, Lakeview, junior
• Jose Martel-Rios, Lakeview, senior
• John Nielsen, Morley Stanwood, junior
• Zachary Peasley, Lakeview, sophomore
• Jesse Petersen, Lakeview, junior
• Tyler Rose, Lakeview, senior
• Ethan Sellers, Morley Stanwood, junior
• Logan Thompson, Kent City, senior

In girls action, Kent City won the head-to-head regular season title but Central Montcalm's championship meet victory creates the tie for first. White Cloud finished in third, while Lakeview finished fourth and Morley Stanwood placed fifth.

Here are the 21 first teamers and six honorable mentions for CSAA-White track and field in 2026:

2026 All-CSAA-White Girls Track & Field First Team

• Payten Bird, White Cloud, senior
• Bayla Curtis, Kent City, freshman
• Courtney Coon, White Cloud, sophomore
• Justice Dixon, White Cloud, junior
• Natalie Dyke, White Cloud, sophomore
• Alivia Graham, White Cloud, sophomore
• Emily Hirkaway, Central Montcalm, freshman
• Ava Johnson, Lakeview, junior
• Julianna James, Central Montcalm, senior 
• Kinsley Kolbe, Central Montcalm, freshman
• Addison Korcal, Kent City, senior
• Elliana Max, Kent City, sophomore
• Layla Moore, White Cloud, sophomore
• Olivia Orr, Lakeview, sophomore
• Andrea Rolston, Central Montcalm, junior
• Brooke Scheidel, Kent City, freshman
• Essynse Smyth, Central Montcalm, junior
• Evelyn Villet, Central Montcalm, junior
• Joselyn Vogel, Kent City, freshman
• Shelby Zimmer, Kent City, sophomore
• Madeline Zableckis, Central Montcalm, senior

2026 All-CSAA-White Girls Track & Field Honorable Mentions

• Braelyn Bunting, Central Montcalm, senior
• Addyson Cook, White Cloud, sophomore
• Hayla Goble, Kent City, senior
• Peyten Hansen, Central Montcalm, freshman
• Abbygayle Hovis, Morley Stanwood, sophomore
• Alex Lowe, Morley Stanwood, freshman

The 2026 track and field season has come to a close in the CSAA.

On the boys side of the CSAA-Red, Tri County took the conference crown in both head-to-head and the league championship meet. Reed City finished in second, follwed by Chippewa Hills in third, Big Rapids in fourth, Newaygo in fifth, and Grant in sixth.

Awards have been handed out for this year's all-conference teams, including 24 first team selections and 16 honorable mentions. Here are the teams:

2026 All-CSAA-Red Boys Track & Field First Team

• Lukas Albright, Big Rapids, junior
• Xander Antor, Tri-County, senior
• David Burgess, Chippewa Hills, junior
• Jayden Button, Tri-County, senior
• David Castrejon, Newaygo, junior
• Sawyer Chapman, Chippewa Hills, sophomore
• Kason Coppick, Reed City, sophomore
• Alex Culver, Tri-County, senior
• Jack Deitsch, Reed City, senior
• Max Druckenmiller, Tri-County, junior
• Clay Farrell, Chippewa Hills, junior
• Roan Johnston, Reed City, sophomore
• Andrew Kiaunis, Reed City, senior
• Hunter McGuire, Chippewa Hills, senior
• Bowie Pawson, Tri-County, senior
• David Reed, Tri-County, junior
• Tyler Schafer, Tri-County, freshman
• Tyler Schuster, Tri-County, junior
• Wilson Sixbury, Tri-County, junior
• Judah Todd, Chippewa Hills, sophomore
• Sam Vandertol, Big Rapids, sophomore
• Preston Wayne, Reed City, senior
• Rocket Wilson, Tri-County, senior
• Tyler Woodside, Reed City, senior

2026 All-CSAA-Red Boys Track & Field Honorable Mentions

• Paul Bonney, Grant, senior
• Brendan Carson, Tri-County, senior
• Oscar Couterier, Grant, freshman
• Jesse DeHaan, Grant, junior
• Brian Gardner, Chippewa Hills, senior
• Logan Grabinski, Tri-County, junior
• Micah Halstead, Tri-County, junior
• Cale Howle, Tri-County, senior
• Kegan Kostecki, Big Rapids, sophomore
• Kayden Manitowabi, Big Rapids, sophomore
• Jack Malloy, Big Rapids, senior
• Dayton Mckinney, Grant, junior
• Kelan Monreal, Tri-County, sophomore
• Antori Myers, Big Rapids, sophomore
• Lincoln Richards, Big Rapids, freshman
• Nicolo Uliana, Tri-County, senior

For the girls results, Chippewa Hills won the conference title for the 23rd consecutive year. Newaygo finished in second, followed by Reed City (3rd), Tri County (4th), Big Rapids (5th), and Grant (6th).

This year's all-conference teams have been announced, including 22 first team selections and nine honorable mentions. Here are the nominations:

2026 All-CSAA-Red Girls Track & Field First Team

• Morgan Andres, Newaygo, junior
• Victoria Bargas, Tri-County, junior
• Natalie Briggs, Tri-County, junior
• Cali Butler, Newaygo, senior
• Molly Carlson, Reed City, junior
• Macy Cornell, Chippewa Hills, junior
• Kylie Corrigan, Newaygo, sophomore
• Austin DuBois, Chippewa Hills, sophomore
• Frankie Fall, Chippewa Hills, sophomore
• Ellason Foster, Newaygo, sophomore
• Ollie Harrington, Newaygo, sophomore
• Quinn Hatfield, Chippewa Hills, senior
• Grace Hughes, Newaygo, senior
• Ruby Hughes, Newaygo, junior
• Kalleigh Klappholz, Newaygo, senior
• Kamryn McArthur, Chippewa Hills, junior
• Peyton Nellis, Chippewa Hills, sophomore
• Nevaeh Pineda, Newaygo, freshman
• Hope Pietrzak, Newaygo, junior
• Dory Simon, Chippewa Hills, sophomore
• Clara Vollmar, Chippewa Hills, senior
• Marlowe Walcott, Reed City, junior

2026 All-CSAA-Red Girls Track & Field Honorable Mentions

• Josie Baker, Tri-County, freshman
• Violet Bellamy, Tri-County, senior
• Helena Clark, Chippewa Hills, junior
• Lilie Kepple, Tri-County, sophomore
• Kensley Langell, Tri-County, junior
• Jocelynn Olds, Tri-County, senior
• Allison Princer, Tri-County, senior
• Aeri Simon, Chippewa Hills, freshman
• Karlee Walker, Tri-County, sophomore

Another chapter has closed on the CSAA girls soccer season, which included broken records and championship victories.

In 2026, Big Rapids finished the season in first place at 7-0, while Tri County would finish as the runner-up at 6-1. Newaygo finished third at 5-2, followed by Lakeview (3-3-1), Grant (3-4), Chippewa Hills (2-5), Reed City (1-6), and Kent City (0-6-1).

Here are the 22 first team selections and the eight honorable mentions listed by name, school, jersey number, and grade.  

2026 All-CSAA-Blue Girls Soccer First Team

• Jillian Butler, Tri County, (#15), sophomore

• Zahara Chuchoque, Grant, (#8), senior

• Natalie Clark, Chippewa Hills, (#8), senior

• Evolette Davis, Grant, (#4), freshman

• Katie Engelsman, Lakeview, (#7), freshman

• Nalaya Fricke, Big Rapids, (#18), junior

• Katricia Gould, Lakeview, (#16), junior

• Ella Grinnell, Chippewa Hills, (#2), sophomore

• Landry Hefferan-Nordlund, Newaygo, (#10), senior

• Lydia Howard, Kent City, (#3), senior

• Brooke McCauley, Tri County, (#3), junior

• Jewel McFarland, Newaygo, (#8), freshman

• Kallyn Moore, Newaygo, (#19), senior

• Holli Painter, Lakeview, (#15), senior

• Ava Pedigo, Big Rapids, (#19), sophomore

• Ella Soules, Newaygo, (#30/GK), junior

• Isabella Sullivan, Grant, (#5), freshman

• Julianne Thompson, Tri County, (#9), junior

• Savanah Thompson, Tri County, (#21), senior

• Madelyn Vallade, Big Rapids, (#24), sophomore

• Emily Waltz, Big Rapids, (#11), sophomore

• Ava Westin, Big Rapids, (#23), junior

2026 All-CSAA-Blue Girls Soccer Honorable Mentions

• Evolet Gonzalez, Grant, (#2), sophomore

• Rachel Larsen, Newaygo, (#16), senior

• Abbey Pollaski, Reed City, (#3), senior

• Judy Reed, Kent City, (#8), sophomore

• Aliveah Smigiel, Tri-County, (#1), senior

• Audrey Stevens, Lakeview, (#18), junior

• Madison Vennix, Big Rapids, (#10), sophomore

• Candace Wrisley, Chippewa Hills, (#24), senior

John Sonntag holds a Ferris State University football record that has stood for more than 50 years. He’s been a fixture at football games ever since. This fall, he'll lead the Bulldogs' homecoming parade.

Sonntag, a Big Rapids resident and Ferris State Athletics Hall of Fame linebacker, will serve as grand marshal of the university's fall homecoming celebration.

"When they asked me to be in the parade, I had tears," he said. "What? Where'd it come from?"

The answer runs more than 50 years deep.

Sonntag arrived at Ferris in 1969 as a freshman linebacker from Ann Arbor’s Pioneer High School. He led the team in tackles that season and earned first-team All-NAIA District 23 honors — the first of four consecutive times he would receive that distinction.

After his freshman year, Sonntag left for the U.S. Army. He served for two years, reached the rank of sergeant on the day he became eligible and returned to Ferris State in 1972.

On Oct. 26, 1974, Division I Eastern Illinois University — which won their conference that season — Sonntag recorded 30 tackles, including 18 solo stops and 12 assists. Both the total and solo tackle stats remain program single-game records at Ferris State.

"Pound for pound, [Sonntag] was the toughest football player I've ever coached," Hall of Fame coach Bob Leach said.

Sonntag earned first-team All-Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference and All-NAIA District 23 honors all four seasons, captained the team as a senior and earned induction into the Ferris State Athletics Hall of Fame in 2005.

The football field doesn't tell the full story. Sonntag enrolled at Ferris State with a 1.8 GPA and, by his own account, headed in the wrong direction.

After failing to attend classes in his freshman year, he walked to the Army recruiting office, where the captain wanted him to re-enlist.

"I have a mission," Sonntag replied to him. "I've got to go back to a place I was welcomed at and get my degree."

He returned to Ferris State in 1972 and graduated in 1975 with a dual bachelor's degree in teaching and community education — and a 3.2 GPA.

"The military definitely got me that structure," Sonntag said. "Football has the same structure."

After graduation, Sonntag worked in a sawmill and on pipelines before a former Big Rapids Brewer football teammate — then a Mecosta County deputy — told him about an opening at the sheriff's department. He joined in 1980, worked eight years in corrections and eight years on road patrol. He ran for Mecosta County Sheriff in 1997 and was elected three times.

While the jersey came off in 1974, but his commitment never did.

Sonntag estimates he attended 96 percent of Ferris football games since graduating — missing only a handful following the death of his late wife Joyce, a surgery, and a close friend's wedding.

"He bleeds Bulldog Red," said Tammy Mercer, his partner.

That loyalty eventually took a new form. Sonntag thought about the freshman he once was — undisciplined, unfocused, a 1.8 GPA — and what a different opportunity might have meant.

"There are kids like me that can do better," he said. "I want to give them a chance to pay it forward when they become something."

In 2024, he established the 30 Tackles Endowed Scholarship through the Ferris Foundation — named for his single-game record and structured to support Bulldog linebackers and offensive linemen.

This spring, after a conversation with head coach Tony Annese about what the program needed most, Sonntag directed $102,000 to the university through One Day for Dawgs — nearly a fifth of the campaign's $505,232 total — with $100,000 earmarked for the Indoor Activities Complex.

"I'm just a regular Joe," he said.

His record suggests otherwise. Sonntag has never stopped choosing Ferris State — on the field, in the stands and now in the ways that will outlast him.

"I wasn't good enough," he said of what kept pulling him back. "Had to be better. I don't know where that came from. I really don't. I just had to get better to be here. This was the place I chose to do that and to live in."

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

The softball season is in the home stretch for local high school teams in the CSAA, and this year's all-conference honorees have been selected.

For the red division, Grant swept the 10-game conference slate to win the championship this season. Reed City finished in second at 8-2, followed by Newaygo (6-4), Big Rapids (4-6), Chippewa Hills (2-8), and Tri County (0-10).

Here are the 14 first-team selections and six honorable mentions, listed by name, school, jersey number, and grade.

2026 All-CSAA-Red Softball First Team

• Starley Baumgardner, Reed City (#25), senior
• Chloe Clark, Newaygo (#14), senior
• Payton Cross, Reed City (#13), freshman
• Lillian Gee, Grant (#8), junior
• Morgan Hammond, Reed City (#21), senior
• Logyn Hansen, Grant (#20), freshman
• Amaya Lathrop, Newaygo (#1), senior
• Ella Luchies, Newaygo (#15), senior
• Bella Pontz, Reed City (#1), freshman
• Erin Reisenberg, Chippewa Hills (#17), senior
• Jaelynn Schuberg, Big Rapids (#2), junior
• Payton Shoemaker, Grant (#2), sophomore
• Kinley Skrabis, Grant (#5), freshman
• Lainey VanLoon, Grant (#4), freshman

2026 All-CSAA-Red Softball Honorable Mentions

• Gabby Arney, Newaygo (#3), junior
• Elizabeth Calabrese, Reed City (#9), junior
• Aleigha Kelsh, Big Rapids (#8), sophomore
• Chloe McGowen, Grant (#9), junior
• Lydia Moeggenberg, Tri-County (#11), sophomore
• Bailey Soper-Brigner, Chippewa Hills (#30), senior

In the CSAA-White, Morley Stanwood dominated the league for another title at 8-0. Central Montcalm finished in second at 5-3, followed by Kent City (5-3), Lakeview (2-6), and White Cloud (0-8)

Here are the 11 first-team selections and five honorable mentions, listed by name, school, jersey number, and grade.

2026 All-CSAA-White Softball First Team

• Laney Bongard, Morley Stanwood (#5), sophomore
• Katelyn Buchner, Lakeview (#6), senior
• Braylen Bunting, Central Montcalm (#17), senior
• Kayla Burgess, White Cloud (#28), senior
• Ellie Hansen, Kent City (#1), junior
• Laynee Hoffman, Kent City (#4), senior
• Madeline Kozuch, Morley Stanwood (#10), junior
• Lylah Larson, Kent City (#10), senior
• Francine Lingeman, Central Montcalm (#21), sophomore 
• Saige Ososki, Morley Stanwood (#20), junior
• Taylor Schuberg, Morley Stanwood (#12), sophomore
• Raegan Ward, Central Montcalm (#13), sophomore

2026 All-CSAA-White Softball Honorable Mentions

• Aubrey Buchholz, Central Montcalm (#12), senior
• Sarah Groendyke, Morley Stanwood (#11), senior
• Alina Morgan, Kent City (#3), junior
• Anika Singleton, Lakeview (#8), junior
• Chasity Vanallsburg, White Cloud (#12), junior

This year's baseball season has come to close for local CSAA teams and it's time to honor this year's all-conference players.

For the red division, Big Rapids defended their crown for a fourth consecutive conference title and a perfect 10-0 record. Grant finished as runner-up at 7-3, followed by Chippewa Hills (4-6), Reed City (4-6), Tri County (3-6-1), and Newaygo (1-8-1).

Here are the 15 first-team selections and six honorable mentions, listed by name, school, jersey number, and grade.

2026 All-CSAA-Red Baseball First Team

• Maverick Chapman, Chippewa Hills (#10), senior
• Reese Dew, Reed City (#11), senior
• Brady Dozier, Reed City (#7), junior
• Rory Fish, Grant (#9), senior
• Austin Gragg, Grant (#27), junior
• Bodie Hadder, Chippewa Hills (#24), senior
• Cole Haist, Big Rapids (#3), senior
• Jonathon Losinski, Big Rapids (#22), senior
• Brody Ososki, Big Rapids (#9), senior
• Hunter Richter, Chippewa Hills (#4), senior
• Blake Rider, Grant (#8), senior
• David Torrey, Tri County (#24), junior
• Austin Tyers, Grant (#10), senior
• Vaughn Veltman, Tri County (#4), senior
• Kurt Wilber, Big Rapids (#4), senior

2026 All-CSAA-Red Baseball Honorable Mentions

• Trevor Garbrecht, Newaygo (#5), senior
• Gage Kozminski, Tri-County (#11), freshman
• Kipton McAruther, Chippewa Hills (#20), freshman
• Kohen Obenauf, Grant (#11), junior
• Brayden Scholz, Big Rapids (#33), junior
• Caleb Somers, Reed City (#10), senior

In the white division, Central Montcalm took home first place in the conference with a 7-1 league mark. Kent City came in close second at 6-2, followed by White Cloud (5-3), Morley Stanwood (2-6), and Lakeview (0-8).

Here are the 11 first-team selections and five honorable mentions, listed by name, school, jersey number, and grade.

2026 All-CSAA-White Baseball First Team

• Brayden Alldering, Central Montcalm (#6), senior
• Justin Anderson, Kent City (#3), senior
• Zayne Cooper, Central Montcalm (#4), senior
• Quin Garrett, Morley Stanwood (#4), junior
• Emmitt Hansen, Kent City (#0), freshman
• Vaughn Helmer, Lakeview (#18), sophomore
• Reece Hewitt, White Cloud (#10), senior
• Emmett Lingeman, Central Montcalm (#1), senior
• Blake Olmstead, Morley Stanwood (#19), senior
• Brady Strait, White Cloud (#3), sophomore
• Aaron Vanderwest, Kent City (#2), senior

2026 All-CSAA-White Baseball Honorable Mentions

• Hayden MacLaren, Central Montcalm (#5), junior
• Edgar Rodriguez, White Cloud (#7), junior
• Colton Rosenburger, Lakeview (#9), sophomore
• Bo Slavens, Morley Stanwood (#24), senior
• Zayne Wiles, Kent City (#4), senior