Monday, August 31

• An officer made a traffic stop for an unreadable license plate. A controlled substance was found during the stop. The matter is under investigation.

• An officer took a complaint of public defecation. This case is under investigation.

Tuesday, September 1

• An officer responded to a crash involving a car and bicycle, with only minor injuries and minor damage.

• An officer transported an individual having mental health difficulties to the hospital for evaluation.

• An officer was dispatched for an assaultive teen. The individual was calmed and the victim did not wish to seek charges.

• An officer took a complaint of frequent spam calls. The caller was advised it is not a criminal manner and advised how to block the numbers or download a call filter app.

Wednesday, September 2

• Officers patrolled traffic, followed-up on open cases, and performed security details.

Thursday, September 3

• An officer took a reckless driving complaint. The area was patrolled, but the vehicle was not located at this time.

Friday, September 4

• An officer assisted deputies with stand-by for EMS for safety regarding a domestic assault investigation.

• An officer was called for civil stand-by regarding a couple. They were able to work out their differences and called to say they no longer needed an officer.

• An officer was dispatched for an assault. The victim declined to seek charges and a copy of the report was forwarded to the juvenile suspect’s probation officer.

• An officer was dispatched for a suicidal person. The individual was located and transferred to hospital for mental health treatment.

Saturday, September 5

• An officer was dispatched for a possible domestic. Upon arrival, all parties were separated and there was no physical altercation. No crime was committed.

• An officer issued an observed trespassing violation. A citation was issued for this incident.

• An officer was dispatched for a dementia patient walking away from treatment. The individual was located and returned.

Sunday, September 6

• An officer was called for a family argument. All parties agreed to separate peacefully.

Monday, September 7

• An officer took a complaint of a suspicious person. Interviews were completed and there was no criminal activity found.

• Officers worked on open cases, abatement enforcement, security checks, and road patrol.

Tuesday, September 8

• An officer was dispatched for a two-vehicle accident with property damage. There were no injuries and a report is on file.

• An officer was dispatched for a fraud complaint. The victim was told they won the Publisher's Clearing House award and needed to send gift cards to pay for fees. The suspect is believed to be operating from Jamaica. The suspect was contacted and advised to not call this individual again. The complainant was given information on how to make a report with the federal government, since the activity is outside the United States.

• An officer received an anonymous tip of an individual getting high off inhalants in public. Officers did not witness the act and the individual moved on.

• An officer was requested to stand by while a psychiatric patient was put in a transport vehicle in event the patient became uncooperative. No problems occurred.

• An officer was dispatched for a domestic dispute. Interviews were completed, and evidence gathered. CPS has been notified.

• An officer was dispatched for a threat complaint. Since nothing physical occurred, and mental clarity of the individual was diminished, the individual was transported to RCH for evaluation purposes.

• An officer was called to hospital for a person refusing to leave. The individual was transported by an Osceola County Sheriff's deputy back to their residence.

Wednesday, September 9

• An officer assisted deputies on a missing person investigation. The individual was found safe and reunited with family members.

• An officer took a Criminal Sexual Conduct complaint. Both individuals were interviewed. The suspect was also served a trespassing notice. Charges have been requested.

• An officer requested charges on an individual for Obstructing a Police Officer and Public Intoxication.

Thursday, September 10

• Officer assisted Child Protective Services with interviews regarding possible criminal sexual conduct. The matter was unfounded.

• An officer took a complaint of retail fraud. Evidence was gathered and a statement was given. Positive identification of the suspect is pending.

• An officer took a complaint of trespassing. The complainant chose to not have a trespassing notice served, but will post 'No Trespassing' signs in attempt to resolve the situation first.

Friday, September 11

• An officer was called for a well-being check on an individual. The individual was located and secure.

• An officer performed multiple traffic stops, patrolled the city, completed security checks, and followed up on open cases.

• An officer was dispatched for a well-being check. The individual was located and determined safe and secure at this time. Unfounded.

• An officer performed security standby for a patient transfer at the hospital. No incidents occurred.

Saturday, September 12

• An officer was dispatched to assist Child Protective Services with an investigation of possible criminal sexual conduct and abuse. The matter is unfounded at this time.

Sunday, September 13

• An officer performed a well-being check. The individual was located and had turned their phone off. The complainant was called, and the person was safe & secure.

• An officer was dispatched for a possible runaway. The individual had been at a location in town but was out with friends. The person would be taken home upon their return.

• An officer advised a homeowner of a parking violation. The owner moved the vehicle.

• An officer spoke with a homeowner regarding a nuisance ordinance violation. The owners are out of town, but the situation will be resolved upon their return. Follow-up is pending.

• An officer performed civil standby for a custody exchange.

• An officer took a complaint of verbal threats. Nothing physical had taken place at this time. A report is on file.

A half-lit moon shows more than a full one, and Ferris State University is setting up telescopes on the Robinson Quad Saturday night, Sep. 19, to show why.

International Observe the Moon Night runs free and open to the public from 8:30 to 10:30 p.m. on the Big Rapids campus. Visitors of any age can walk up, take a turn at an eyepiece, and ask faculty about the view.

The night's main attraction is the terminator, the boundary dividing the moon's sunlit day side from its night side. Near the first quarter, that line cuts across the face of the moon and turns ordinary terrain dramatic.

"Sunlight strikes the surface at a very low angle along this line, causing crater rims and mountain peaks to cast long, dramatic shadows," said Dinesh Shetty, an assistant professor of physics and astronomy who hosts the event.

Shetty said visitors will pick out individual craters in fine detail along with the maria, the dark volcanic plains that form the familiar pattern on the moon's face. A full moon, lit straight on, flattens all of it.

Groups of 10 also rotate through the Rawlinson Observatory dome for tours across the evening. An elevator reaches the third floor, and a short flight of stairs climbs from there to the dome.

Clouds do not cancel the night. Shetty makes the weather call Saturday afternoon and posts it on the observatory website, and someone stationed on the quad will direct arrivals to Room 102 on the lower level of the Science Building, where the evening becomes an indoor observatory tour.

NASA organizes International Observe the Moon Night each year in September or October, timing it to a moon near the first quarter for exactly the shadows Shetty describes. Observers worldwide have marked the night since 2010, and Ferris State's event appears on NASA's Global Participation Map.

The Rawlinson Observatory runs on a public outreach mission year-round. Its equipment includes a large-aperture reflecting telescope on a computer-controlled equatorial mount, scientific CCD and CMOS cameras for live viewing, and planetarium software that puts the view on an indoor display.

Astrophotography has become a growing focus, and workshops there cover low-light camera settings, polar alignment, stacked imaging, and image processing.

Shetty teaches in the Department of Physical Sciences in Ferris State's College of Arts, Sciences and Education, where faculty cover chemistry, industrial chemistry, physics, physical science, geology and astronomy.

The department awards bachelor's degrees in chemistry, biochemistry and industrial chemistry, plus an associate degree in industrial chemistry technology. Working with the School of Education, it also offers a secondary teaching major in chemistry and teaching minors in chemistry and physics. The college offers more than 100 programs across nine departments.

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

The U.S. House of Representatives passed the AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act on Tuesday, Sept. 15, 2026, by voice vote.

The legislation would require new passenger vehicles sold in the U.S. to include AM radio at no extra charge.

Michigan broadcasters and lawmakers played a prominent role in pushing the bill forward, striking key compromises to protect public safety while addressing the auto industry’s technological concerns.

“Keeping AM radio accessible in vehicles helps ensure drivers can continue to connect with the local broadcasters and stations serving their communities every day,” the Michigan Association of Broadcasters said in a Facebook post. “The MAB applauds this important step forward and remains committed to protecting the future of local radio and the vital role it plays in Michigan communities.”

The bill now moves to the Senate, where a companion measure sponsored by Sens. Ed Markey, D-Mass., and Ted Cruz, R-Texas, is on the legislative calendar with more than 60 bipartisan cosponsors. If the Senate passes it, the bill would go to the president’s desk to be signed into law.

Read more on the bill's status here: https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/979/all-info.

The city of Big Rapids will host a ribbon-cutting at 1 p.m. Friday, Sept. 18, in Hemlock Park for a fish sculpture.

Located between the Muskegon River and the softball field, the sculpture serves as both a piece of local art and a recycling container for glass and plastic bottles. The project was commissioned by the General Federation of Women’s Clubs of Big Rapids and fabricated by Ferris State University welding engineering students.

“This fish represents the driving force behind GFWC’s Community Service Programs Arts & Culture, Civic Engagement and Outreach, Education and Libraries, Environment and Health and Wellness,” GFWC member Linda Telfer said. “This is in keeping with our motto of ‘Working for a Better Community.’”

Associate Professor Mark Prosser and students Case Hummel and Jace Burns led construction of the fish.

Representatives from the city of Big Rapids, Mecosta Recycles, GFWC and Ferris State University are expected to attend the ribbon-cutting ceremony.

Monday, September 7

• No calls reported.

Tuesday, September 8

• An officer was dispatched to a threats complaint. Upon arrival, the complainant advised that two subjects were acting aggressive towards them while walking by to their vehicle. The complainant advised the subjects got into their vehicle and left will they called 911.
• An officer was dispatched to a larceny complaint. Upon speaking with the subject, they were not sure if the property was missing or stolen but wanted to file a report.
• An officer was dispatched to an area check for a person yelling. The person was found to be okay; just upset with some recent news they received. 
• An officer was dispatched to a civil dispute. The reporting party wanted officers to be aware of a dispute between them and the other party. The reporting party just wanted the dispute documented in case further issues arise that result in law enforcement being called.  
• An officer was dispatched to investigate a retail fraud, not in progress. The initial information was collected and the case remains open pending contact with the suspect. 

Wednesday, September 9

• An officer was dispatched to a fail to pay complaint. The case remains open pending further investigation.

Thursday, September 10

• No calls reported.

Friday, September 11

• An officer was called to a turfing complaint. It appeared as if a vehicle did a U-turn across the caller's and neighbor’s yards. 

Saturday, September 12

• No calls reported.

Sunday, September 13

• No calls reported.

Ferris State University is playing a critical role in this year’s Tech Week Grand Rapids, as Ferris State President Bill Pink took the stage with entrepreneurs Daymond John and Robert Herjavec to discuss the new age of doing business.

Both John and Herjavec have significantly impacted the tech, fashion and other key industries throughout their careers, and are famously known for their over decades-long appearances on ABC’s hit television series “Shark Tank.”

“We have two legends who are with us today, and I want them to realize (the caliber of) folks we have in this room and throughout West Michigan,” Pink said on Monday at the event’s kick-off event at 20 Monroe in Grand Rapids.

Pink served as the moderator during the conversation with John and Herjavec, as the two entrepreneurs used the opportunity to educate and encourage attendees by sharing their business journey and how one becomes successful in an ever-changing society.

“West Michigan is a place where we do things like Tech Week to grow our community, to encourage each other and bring in experts from across the globe to help inform what that work looks like,” Pink said.

“Shark Tank” is a business reality television series where entrepreneurs pitch their products or companies to a panel of wealthy investors, known as the "Sharks," to secure funding and mentorship.

Tech Week Grand Rapids is a six-day, community driven “unconference” taking place from Sept. 14 to 19 across the greater Grand Rapids area.

With over 1,000 people signing up, this week features 160 events including panels, workshops, student showcases and networking mixers that are free and open to the public.

Attendees have an opportunity to learn more about how artificial intelligence is playing a growing role in health care and other aspects of society. They can also explore how AI, data and emerging technology are transforming clinical care, drug discovery and patient outcomes, in addition to other conversations.

The Right Place is the proud organizer of Tech Week Grand Rapids. The organization works alongside other community leaders to create the event and establish Greater Grand Rapids as a leading destination for tech and innovation.

Ferris State is playing a key role in Tech Week Grand Rapids, with faculty and staff leading six presentations on Sept. 16 and Sept. 17 looking at how artificial intelligence is playing a growing role in health care and other aspects of society.

All of the university’s presentations will take place at Ferris State’s Kendall College of Art and Design in the Woodbridge N. Ferris Building, 17 Pearl Street.

Ferris State sessions cover topics ranging from “Closing the AI Divide in Rural and Tribal Communities,” “Practical AI for Healthcare Data,” and “AI Projects Improving Pharmacy Workflows and Decisions.”

Additional information about the Ferris State presentations and registration is available here.

More information about the scheduled events and descriptions can be found here.

_{Release credit to Ferris State University. Photo credit to Shafi Subhan of Aves Films.}

Monday, Sep. 7

• At 11:45 a.m., deputies responded to an assault complaint at a residence in Green Township. A male subject was arrested for Assault. He was lodged at the Mecosta County Jail.

• At 9:02 p.m., deputies made a traffic stop in Green Township. A female subject was arrested for Possession of Methamphetamine. She was lodged at the Mecosta County Jail.

Calls for Service: 13

Traffic Accidents: 0

Tuesday, Sep. 8

• At 8:53 p.m., deputies made a traffic stop in Wheatland Township. The traffic stop resulted in the male driver being arrested for Possession of Crack Cocaine. He was lodged at the Mecosta County Jail.

Calls for Service: 9

Traffic Accidents: 0

Wednesday, Sep. 9

• At 7:47 p.m., deputies responded to a retail fraud complaint that had occurred in Big Rapids Township. It was reported that a male subject had stolen items from a local store. Deputies made a traffic stop on the suspect's vehicle, resulting in the male driver being arrested for Retail Fraud. Over $1,000 worth of stolen merchandise was found and recovered from the suspect's vehicle.  The male subject was lodged at the Mecosta County Jail.

Calls for Service: 14

Traffic Accidents: 2

Thursday, Sep. 10

• At 8:36 p.m., deputies made a traffic stop in Wheatland Township. The traffic stop resulted in the female driver being arrested for Operating While Intoxicated. She was lodged at the Mecosta County Jail.

Calls for Service: 17

Traffic Accidents: 3

Friday, Sep. 11

• At 7:52 p.m., deputies made an arrest at a residence in Fork Township. A male subject was arrested for a probation violation. He was lodged at the Mecosta County Jail.

• At 8:16 p.m. deputies responded to a domestic incident at a residence in Martiny Township. A male subject was arrested for Assault. He was lodged at the Mecosta County Jail.

Calls for Service: 17

Traffic Accidents: 3

Saturday, Sep. 12

• At 1:34 a.m., deputies made a traffic stop in Mecosta Township. The traffic stop resulted in the male driver being arrested for Operating While Intoxicated. He was lodged at the Mecosta County Jail.

• At 1:50 a.m., deputies made a traffic stop in Big Rapids Township. The traffic stop resulted in the female driver being arrested for Operating While Intoxicated. She was lodged at the Mecosta County Jail.

Calls for Service: 14

Traffic Accidents: 2

Sunday, Sep. 13

• No arrests reported.

Calls for Service: 5

Traffic Accidents: 4

Road construction projects will be continuing through September around West Central Michigan.

Here are some the projects schedueld by the Michigan Department of Transportation:

• Westbound M-82 between Howard City & Newaygo
  • Lane closures until Friday, Sep. 18
• Southbound US-131 near Mile Marker 133 & Stanwood
  • Lane closures until Thursday, Sep. 24
• Northbound US-131 near M-115 & Clam Lake
  • Weekday lane closures until Friday, Sep. 25
• Eastbound US-10 near Evart & Muskegon River
  • Lane closures until Friday, Oct. 30
• Northbound/Southbound M-66 between US-10 & M-115
  • Total closure until Friday, Nov. 6
• Northbound US-10 near M-37 & Baldwin 
  • Lane closures from Monday, Sep. 21, until Monday, Nov. 16

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

Phillip Lee Sprague, 62, of Farwell, was bound over to stand trial in the 55th Circuit Court in Clare County this past week.

He faces one count of Embezzlement from a Vulnerable Adult - $100,000 or More, a 20-year felony, and two counts of Embezzlement from a Vulnerable Adult - $50,000 or More but Less Than $100,000, each a 15-year felony. It was announced on Thursday, Sep. 10, 2026, by Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel.

It is alleged that Sprague, who was charged in February, embezzled from an 82-year-old victim who had sustained a traumatic brain injury. Sprague allegedly obtained more than $400,000 of assets from the victim. Of that, more than $300,000 was reportedly obtained through changes the victim made to his Will and Trust to benefit the defendant instead of the victim’s children and grandchildren.

“I am pleased this case has now moved forward to trial, where we will continue to seek justice for the victim and his family,” said Attorney General Nessel. “Vulnerable Michiganders should never have to worry about protecting their life savings from those meant to care for them, and my office will continue to work tirelessly to hold accountable individuals who exploit their positions of trust.”

Sprague is scheduled to appear before the 55th Circuit Court on Tuesday, Oct. 6, 2026.

_{Release courtesy of the Michigan Office of Attorney General.}

Michigan hunters planning a fall trip have a rebuilt tool to work with. The Michigan Department of Natural Resources has launched a new version of MiHunt, the state’s interactive map of lands open to public hunting, available at Michigan.gov/MiHunt.

The map is live just in time for the fall hunting seasons.

“We wanted hunters to build their own adventure rather than be handed a finished one,” said Sarah Mayhew, a data specialist for the DNR Wildlife Division. “The map opens with lands open to public hunting and nothing else. Everything beyond that is up to you.”

This approach does more than clean up the mapping process. Because hunters turn on each layer themselves, they know exactly what they are looking at and why it is there. Nothing appears on the map that the hunter did not ask for.

Some layers hunters can switch on include:

• Species management unit boundaries.
• Cover type layers showing forest makeup.
• Land management agencies.
• Special hunting areas, including Hunting Access Program properties, Turkey Tracts and Grouse Enhanced Management Sites.

Hunters can also bring their own information to the map. MiHunt now accepts imported spatial data, so a hunter can add a property boundary, a set of waypoints or last season’s tracks and view it alongside DNR-provided layers. Imported data is visible only to the person who adds it.

The MiHunt rebuild was a cooperative effort between the DNR’s Wildlife and Forest Resources divisions. Both have long contributed data to the map, and staff from each division worked together on the redesign.

“We’re hoping hunters notice how much easier the new MiHunt is to use this fall,” said Holly Toohey, a resource analyst with the DNR Forest Resources Division. “Working across divisions helped us find and fix the problems that staff and hunters had been telling us about.”

The DNR also built the new version in-house, rather than contracting the work out as it did with earlier versions of the tool.

“Bringing the development of MiHunt in-house will allow us to be more responsive if issues arise or when adding new features in the future,” Mayhew said.

MiHunt is not a downloadable app. It runs in a web browser on a computer, tablet or phone, with no download or account required. Hunters looking to buy licenses, check regulations or report a harvest from a mobile device can use the Michigan DNR Hunt Fish app.

MiHunt contains a complex map with many layers. Hunters who would like help reading or interpreting it can call 517-284-9453.

_{Release information courtesy of the Michigan DNR.} 

Monday, Aug. 17

• An officer was dispatched to attempt to locate a missing individual. The homeowner was contacted and denied knowing the person.

• An officer located an inoperable vehicle during patrol. The owner was advised of Chapter 668 in the ordinance code and given copies. A time limit has been given to rectify the abatement.

• An officer investigated a suspicious letter received in the mail. An interview was done with the suspect who admitted sending it. The person agreed to have no future contact with the complainant.

Tuesday, Aug. 18

• An officer was called for a CashApp card found. The owner of the card was located and confirmed ownership. The card holder requested the card be destroyed, so the officer obliged.

Wednesday, Aug. 19

• An officer reported a lost firearm. The firearm has been entered as missing.

• An officer followed up on a nuisance ordinance regarding animals. The animals have been removed by the owner.

• An officer was dispatched to assist EMS with an unruly patient. The patient was admitted at RCH without further incident.

Thursday, Aug. 20

• An officer was called for a welfare concern. No crime had been committed.

• An officer was called for a complaint of someone banging on a door. No subject was located at the time. Patrols have been increased in the area.

• An officer arrested a 25-year-old woman for an active warrant for Failure to Appear in court. The subject was transported to Osceola County Jail without incident.

• An officer was called for two individuals opening a door of a residence after dark. The two subjects were located and identified. Both individuals were issued citations.

Friday, Aug. 21

• An officer was dispatched for a well-being check. The individual was home and secure, and they will call the complainant and check in.

• An officer was called for a property damage complaint. Evidence was documented and a report written. An officer was called about a neighbor using heavy equipment and his neighbor suspecting he didn’t call miss dig. The officer checked on the matter. No crime was committed.

• An officer was dispatched to a car-vs-deer accident. Both airbags had been deployed, and EMS was on scene. Both parties refused treatment. The vehicle was towed and both parties were transported by this officer to meet family without incident.

• An officer served a trespass notice to an individual.

Saturday, Aug. 22

• An officer located an individual asleep on a public table. Upon awakening the subject, they fled the scene leaving behind some property. Osceola County Sheriff's Department was dispatched to assist in locating the subject, but officers were unable to locate them. The subject has been identified and has an open Friend of the Court warrant. The property left behind has been entered to the Reed City Police Department.

• An officer was called for money found at a public location. The item has been placed in Reed City Police Department property pending the owner providing proper proof of ownership.

• An officer was called for a well-being check. On arrival, the individual was secure but one of the phone handsets was not hung up effectively. The person will call the complainant and follow-up.

• An officer was dispatched to assist in a CPS investigation. Evidence and statements were gathered. This case has been referred to CPS and a police agency in another jurisdiction for further investigation.

Sunday, Aug. 23

• An officer was dispatched to assist the Osceola County Sheriff's Department with stand-by for a domestic. Stand-by for officer safety was completed during arrest by the Osceola County Sheriff's Department.

• An officer was called for an anonymous well-being check. Individuals were interviewed and there were no signs of injury, or safety concerns, found at this time.

• A 35-year old man was arrested for Obstructing Justice and an open Friend of the Court warrant. The individual was also served a trespassing notice. The subject was transported to Osceola County Jail without incident.

Monday, Aug. 24

• An officer was called for an attempted Breaking & Entering complaint involving a family member of the caller. Interviews were completed. The suspect was advised that future attempts to enter would result in a formal trespassing being served. The subject left the area willingly.

• An officer performed a well-being check for possible abuse and neglect. The home and occupants were interviewed. No evidence of neglect or abuse were found at this time.

Tuesday, Aug. 25

• An officer was called for a civil dispute. Interviews were done. One subject was gathering belongings to leave the residence willingly and was transported to a family members home without incident.

• An officer was advised of numerous 911 calls for non-emergency issues. Dispatch had advised the caller that misuse of 911 is a crime and charges would be sought. The prosecutor has been advised.

• An officer observed a dispute between a mother and child. The situation was calmed and the child agreed to behave.

• An officer followed up on multiple abatements, performed security checks, traffic patrol including schools & football practices, and worked on active investigations.

Wednesday, Aug. 26

• An officer was called for a suspicious person at a residence. The individual was the current resident.

Thursday, Aug. 27

• An officer was dispatched for an ill person on the floor in a public building. EMS was called and transported the individual. The individual’s belongings were secured at Reed City Police Department pending their return. Property was retrieved by the owner.

• An officer was called to assist CPS with a well-being check on an individual. Interviews were completed and evidence was gathered. Allegations were unfounded.

Friday, Aug. 28

• An officer attempted to serve an abatement in reference to the improper storage of trash.

• An officer was dispatched to a report of a child chasing a chicken with a shovel. Parents were spoken to. An officer performed traffic enforcement.

• An officer was dispatched to a possible domestic. It was determined to be an argument only.

Saturday, Aug. 29

• An officer took a report of a domestic assault. A 49-year-old woman was arrested and lodged at the jail.

• An officer assisted Lake County in serving a subpoena.

• An officer served two abatement notices for inoperable vehicles.

• An officer was dispatched to a 911 hang up at a local store. It was determined to be a pocket dial by an employee.

• An officer performed traffic enforcement.

Sunday, Aug. 30

• An officer was dispatched to a civil dispute between roommates. One agreed to leave the residence.

On Thursday, Sep. 10, Congressman John Moolenaar introduced legislation to designate September 11 through 17 as Patriot Week. The legislation intends to honor the victims of the 9/11 terrorist attacks, recognize the ratification of the United States Constitution, and encourage each generation to reflect on our history and freedoms.

“As we remember the heroes and innocent victims killed on September 11 twenty-five years ago, we should also recall the profound unity Americans felt in the aftermath of the terrorist attacks. Patriot Week is a time to reflect on our founding values, and encourage a deeper exploration of our history with hope to restore this national unity. I am proud to introduce this resolution to recognize this week as Patriot Week; to encourage Americans to celebrate the freedoms we cherish and honor our Constitution,” said Congressman Moolenaar.

“Twenty-five years ago, terrorists attacked our country believing they could break the American spirit. Instead, one of our darkest days brought out the very best of America,” said Congressman Zach Nunn. “First responders ran toward danger, passengers aboard Flight 93 rushed the cockpit rather than allow their plane to become another weapon, and a generation of Americans raised their hand to serve. This Patriot Week, we honor the values our Founding Fathers passed down to us, embodied by everyday Americans in the weeks and months that followed the 9/11 attacks: service before self, courage in the face of adversity, and an unwavering commitment to our nation.” 

Patriot Week was founded in 2009 by Judge Michael Warren of Oakland County, Michigan, and his daughter Leah to promote public awareness of our nation’s founding. Patriot Week begins on the anniversary of the 2001 terrorist attacks and concludes on Constitution Day, September 17. Moolenaar's resolution is cosponsored by Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (R-NY) and Congressmen Jeff Van Drew (R-NJ), and Zach Nunn (R-IA).

Congressman Moolenaar's Patriot Week resolution can be found here.

_{Release courtesy of Congressman Moolenaar.}

Football season is now a few weeks in. Following the first few weeks, here are some players you should keep an eye out for in the CSAA.

• Max Bollman - Big Rapids - Senior - Defensive End

Bollman, who is now going into his fourth year on varsity for the Cardinals, has been a force to be reckoned with on the field. Just last season, Bollman racked up 13 sacks and earned a Division 4 all-state bid. The three-star prospect is one of the most high-energy players you will see across the state, showing no quit in chasing down sacks. He also lives in the weight room, and his strength translates seamlessly onto the field. Bollman this past offseason got his squat to 650 pounds, deadlift to 600 pounds and his bench to 450 pounds. The defensive end comes into 2026 at 260 pounds and is currently holding onto 11 Division I offers with a commitment to Miami (OH).

• Kason Coppick - Reed City - Junior - Running Back

After back-to-back 1,000-yard rushing seasons, the Reed City running back will have some eyes on him in 2026. Coppick is expected to have a larger role in this year’s Coyote rushing attack after sharing the backfield with Andrew Kianus and Jack Deitsch for the past two seasons. This season, he will have a chance to show why he is not just the best running back in the conference, but on the west side of the state. Coppick brings a great mix of strength and speed on Friday nights. If he finds open space, it’s lights out early. He currently holds two Division I offers: Kent State and Columbia, but is uncommitted.

• Micah Halstead - Tri County - Senior - Offensive Tackle

Halstead is one of the biggest tackles you’ll see across the CSAA. This season, he comes in on the roster sheet at 6-foot-4 and 285 pounds. Another four-year varsity star, Halstead has shined with the Vikings, especially last season helping running backs get to the second level of defenders. With Tri County looking to lean on the run game this year, the 2025 all-state tackle will look to match that power and execution this season. He committed to Northwood University on Aug. 5.

Honorable Mentions:

• Kai Kamanu - Kent City - Senior - Tight End/Outside Linebacker
• Trevor McGuff - Kent City - Senior - Running Back/Defensive Back

Despite the opening week loss, the Eagles ground game has always been deadly in the CSAA-White. Following the loss of double-digit seniors from last year's semi-final team, McGuff is slated to take the bulk of the carries for this year. The senior will follow his athletic tight end, Kai Kamanu, who has had a fabulous career to this point. Both players are defensive playmakers and will be on a lot of area radars, as all eyes will be on the Eagles for another playoff season.

To follow the CSAA football season, watch weekly episodes of 'The Rundown' on YouTube here: THE RUNDOWN.

Monday, August 31

• An officer was dispatched for a violation of the Controlled Substances Act, involving an illegal substance. The substance was seized and a citation was issued.

Tuesday, September 1

• An officer was dispatched to a larceny complaint. After speaking with the complainant, the officer was advised there was a misunderstanding and the stolen items were actually received.
• An officer received a criminal sexual conduct complaint. The complaint remains open pending further investigations.

Wednesday, September 2

• An officer was dispatched to a retail fraud complaint. The complaint remains open pending contact with the suspect. 

Thursday, September 3

• An officer was dispatched to investigate a property damage accident.

Friday, September 4

• An officer assisted the Osceola County Sheriff's Department on a traffic stop. The driver had an active warrant. The driver was arrested on their warrant.
• An officer was dispatched for a Domestic Assault. The suspect was arrested and lodged at Osceola County Jail. 
• An officer was dispatched to investigate a fail to pay for fuel complaint.
• An officer assisted during a community event. 
• An officer was dispatched to investigate a failure to pay complaint.
• An officer was dispatched to investigate a turfing complaint. The incident remains open pending further investigation.
• An officer was dispatched to investigate a retail fraud complaint. The suspect was located and arrested for a misdemeanor warrant.

Saturday, September 5

• An officer was dispatched to investigate a retail fraud complaint. The suspect was identified, and a report is being forwarded to the prosecutor's office.

Sunday, September 6

• An officer was requested to assist the Osceola County Sheriff's Department with a domestic assault investigation.
• An officer was dispatched to investigate a retail fraud complaint. The suspect was identified, and the complaint remains open pending further investigation. 

Ferris State University leaders are remembering Dean Davenport for his impact on Bulldog Athletics as the former athletic director and coach, while elevating the Bulldogs to new heights.

Davenport passed away on Sept. 3 at the age of 91.

He served as Ferris State's athletics director from 1979 to 1993 and was later inducted into the Bulldog Athletics Hall of Fame in 2009.

During his tenure as AD, the Bulldogs won the GLIAC President's Cup for all-around excellence 13 consecutive years. He was also a coach and administrator for 23 years, as Davenport’s career was highlighted by the growth and success of athletics and the recreation/intramural program at Ferris State.

The Bulldogs won a total of 73 league championships under Davenport’s leadership, and he was influential for the growth of women's intercollegiate athletics, the emergence of Ferris State’s NCAA Division I men's ice hockey program and the development of the athletics scholarship program.

Additionally, he played a role in the planning of what is now known as the R.L. Ewigleben Sports Complex.

A Central Michigan University graduate, Davenport's career in education spanned 36 years. He served as head boys' basketball coach at Traverse City High School and was an assistant at both CMU and Cal-State Northridge before becoming athletics director and head coach at Iowa Wesleyan College.

He joined the Bulldog family in 1970 as an assistant to head coach Jim Wink and was an athletics coordinator along with developing the recreation and leisure curriculum.

He also served the university as director of the health, physical education and recreation program from 1977 to 1979 when he was appointed athletics director.

Davenport's son, Terry, created the iconic Bulldog logo currently still used today and the department's annual Bulldog of the Year Award for the school's top male and female student-athlete was renamed in his honor.

Davenport was a leader in the NCAA, serving on multiple committees and as the president of the Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference, the Central Collegiate Hockey Association and the Midwest Intercollegiate Football Conference.

While at Ferris State, he hired a number of future Bulldog Athletics Hall of Fame coaches including Dan Ley, Monica Folske, Gary Waters, Kathy DeBoer, Judd Folske, Jim Miller, Ron English, Lewis Garner, Keith Otterbein and Jill Hirschinger.

As an assistant basketball coach, Davenport helped the Bulldogs post a 167-76 overall mark from 1970-79. He also served as a consultant for the men's basketball program for several years during retirement.

Davenport was married for 65 years to his Charlevoix High School sweetheart, Joyce (Cunningham). Together they built a remarkable partnership that lasted until Joyce's death on January 1, 2023.

To share in celebrating Dean's life, memorial contributions can be made by check to the Charlevoix Junior Golf Association, 213 Nettleton Street, Charlevoix MI 49720. Arrangements are in the care of the Charlevoix Chapel of Mortensen Funeral Homes.

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

The Lake County Sheriff’s Office posted a public assistance request on social media in hopes of identifying a suspect in a recent pursuit.

Deputies attempted to conduct a traffic stop of the suspect at about 6:45 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 6, on northbound M-37 in Eden Township. The suspect did not stop and led deputies on a pursuit.

Anyone with information about the suspect or the motorcycle is asked to contact Central Dispatch at 231-745-2711.

“Please reference report No. 2026-01273 when providing information,” the sheriff’s office said. “The Lake County Sheriff’s Office appreciates the public’s assistance.”

_{Images courtesy of Lake County Sheriff's Office.}

Monday, Aug. 31

• No arrests reported.

Calls for Service: 14

Traffic Accidents: 0

Tuesday, Sep. 1

• At 7:40 p.m., deputies made a traffic stop in Morton Township. The traffic stop resulted in the male driver being arrested on a warrant out of Osceola County. He was turned over to Osceola County.

Calls for Service: 18

Traffic Accidents: 2

Wednesday, Sep. 2

• At 8:23 p.m., deputies made a traffic stop in Colfax Township. The traffic stop resulted in two male subjects being arrested on warrants. Both were lodged at the Mecosta County Jail.

Calls for Service: 13

Traffic Accidents: 1

Thursday, Sep. 3

• At 5:10 p.m., deputies made a warrant arrest in Green Township. A male subject was arrested on a warrant. He was lodged at the Mecosta County Jail.

• At 7:19 p.m., deputies investigated a hit and run accident in Aetna Township. Additional investigation resulted in the location of the male driver, who had initially fled the scene. He was arrested for Operating While Intoxicated and an additional probation violation. He was lodged at the Mecosta County Jail.

• At 10:59 p.m., deputies made a warrant arrest in Big Rapids Township. A male subject was arrested and lodged at the Mecosta County Jail.

Calls for Service: 10

Traffic Accidents: 5

Friday, Sep. 4

• At 1:53 a.m., deputies made a traffic stop in Big Rapids Township. The traffic stop resulted in the female driver being arrested for Operating While Intoxicated. She was lodged at the Mecosta County Jail.

• At 11:15 a.m., deputies made a warrant arrest at a residence in Montcalm County. A female subject was arrested on a warrant. She was lodged at the Mecosta County Jail.

Calls for Service: 15

Traffic Accidents: 1

Saturday, Sep. 5

• No arrests reported.

Calls for Service: 12

Traffic Accidents: 4

Sunday, Sep. 6

• No arrests reported.

Calls for Service: 12

Traffic Accidents: 1

Monday, Sep. 7

• At 11:45 a.m., deputies responded to an assault complaint at a residence in Green Township. A male subject was arrested for Assault. He was lodged at the Mecosta County Jail.

• At 9:02 p.m., deputies made a traffic stop in Green Township. A female subject was arrested for Possession of Methamphetamine. She was lodged at the Mecosta County Jail.

Calls for Service: 13

Traffic Accidents: 0

The Speedway gas station, located near the intersection of 19 Mile Road and Northland Drive (Old US-131), will be closing on Monday, Sep. 28, 2026.

The station will then re-open as a Shell gas station at a later date. Store managers say the station conversion could take as little as a week.

Speedy Rewards points will not transfer to the Shell location, and customers are being told to use them before the rebrand.

Michigan has 294 Speedway stores, with nearby locations remain in Cadillac, Cedar Springs, Fremont, Kent City and Newaygo.

The converted store would become Big Rapids’ second Shell, joining the station at 21445 Perry Avenue. Shell is Michigan’s third-largest fuel brand with more than 400 locations, only trailing Marathon, with about 686 sites, and ExxonMobil, with about 579.

For more details, visit the location at 19246 Northland Drive.

On Monday, Sept. 7, 2026, at about 11:27 a.m., deputies from the Mecosta County Sheriff’s Office were dispatched to the area of 137th Avenue and Washington Road in Deerfield Township for a reported crash involving a farm tractor.

Upon arrival, deputies and emergency personnel found a 74-year-old man from Morley who had sustained significant injuries.

According to the investigation, the man had a medical emergency while driving a Farmall tractor. He then fell from the tractor while it was still in gear and was run over by the hayrack trailer being pulled behind it.

“Mecosta County EMS provided emergency medical treatment at the scene before transporting the male to the Lakeview Airport,” deputies said.“From the airport, the male was transported by Aero Med helicopter to Butterworth Hospital in Grand Rapids for further medical treatment.”

The man sustained serious but not life-threatening injuries.

The Mecosta County Sheriff’s Office was assisted by Mecosta County EMS and Morton Township Rescue.

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

On Saturday, Sep. 5, 2026, at approximately 5:51 p.m., deputies from the Mecosta County Sheriff's Office were dispatched to a vehicle crash at the intersection of 20 Mile Road and 80^th Avenue near Chippewa Lake.

Upon arrival at the scene, deputies located a Chevrolet Cruze in the west ditch of 80^th Avenue. The driver, a 22-year-old woman from Tecumseh, was travelling west bound on 20 Mile Road and tried to swerve and avoid a piece of debris in the roadway.

"Her vehicle left the roadway and drove into the ditch," Sheriff's deputies said. "The driver was uninjured but her passenger, a 21-year-old female from Tipton, sustained minor injuries. (She) was transported to Corewell Health Big Rapids Hospital for further treatment via Mecosta County Emergency Medical Services."

Alcohol nor drugs were found to be factor in the crash.

Deputies were assisted on scene by Mecola Central Dispatch, Hilltop Towing, Chippewa Martiny Fire & Rescue, Fork Township Fire & Rescue, and Mecosta County Emergency Medical Services.