Kent County Sheriff's Deputies are looking for a 31-year-old Muskegon man, Cardell Parker, who went missing Thursday around 11:15 A.M. in the area of Cascade Road and Forrest Hills Avenue in Grand Rapids Township.

(Image of Cardell Parker provided by the Kent County Sheriff's Office).

Cardell is African American, 5 feet, 6 inches tall, and weighs approximately 135 to 150 pounds. He has a beard, mustache, and thinning hair. He was wearing a black hooded sweatshirt with an unknown blue and red logo on the front, black pants, and yellow and white Nike Air Jordan shoes when he went missing.

Please contact 9-1-1 or Detective Holbrook at 616-632-6488 if you know his whereabouts.

Ferris State University Joseph Pistrui headed to Spain in 1997, beginning studies leading to his Doctor of Philosophy at Universidad Autonoma de Barcelona. He never thought he’d be able to watch his alma mater’s volleyball team compete in his new collegiate home.

The Ferris State volleyball team is in the middle of a 10-day trip for international competition and cultural enrichment.

“When I discovered that their first official act would be a workout at the university where I work, I was over the moon,” he said. “It set the stage for me to play a unique role as a goodwill ambassador and representative of both institutions. That is special indeed.”

Pistrui earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Ferris State in 1983, wrapping up a Big Rapids-based experience that included three years as a student-athlete in the men’s basketball program under a trio of Bulldog Athletics Hall of Fame head coaches Jim Wink and Tom Ludwig and assistant coach and former standout player Gary Waters, a fellow hall-of-famer.

Beyond the basketball hardwood, Pistrui lettered as a student-athlete for the track and field team under another Ferris State coaching legend, Ray Helsing, where he competed in the 200, 400 and 4x400.

He is a 2021 Ferris State University Distinguished Alumni Award recipient. He has been a faculty member at IE University since 2000 and teaches entrepreneurship and innovation courses to undergraduate students and master’s students while working directly with company executives to help them develop innovation inside their companies.

“When I first learned about the women’s volleyball team’s planned trip, I was very excited,” he said. “It is not every day that I cross paths with a Bulldog in Madrid. So, the chance to do so is always compelling.”

That the volleyball team was coming to Madrid was merely the start.

Pistrui savored every moment of his ambassador role for two institutions that have had significant impacts throughout his life.

“As they entered the university, I greeted head coach Tia Brandel-Wilhelm, whom I had communicated with before their trip, and she immediately introduced me to the team as a Ferris Alumni. That was pure pleasure,” he said. “During the team’s morning workout, I interacted a bit with other members of the Ferris team traveling, including Senior Associate Athletic Director Sara Higley, who shared some personal anecdotes about Ferris sports and all the exciting things that have transpired on and off the field.”

Pistrui was pleased the interest was mutual.

“Later, when the Ferris contingent was touring IE University, coach Brandel-Wilhelm invited me to introduce myself more formally to the team before taking a group photo,” he said. “I gave the group a quick overview of my Michigan origins, including coming from Imlay City. I told them about my time at Ferris, my recognition as a Distinguished Alumni, and my corresponding work on the Thumb 11 Endowed Scholarship Fund. I closed my remarks by expressing my joy for sharing a small part of their European experience.”

The Bulldog volleyball team, which has advanced to the NCAA Division II Sweet 16 each of the last three seasons, listened intently and expressed their appreciation to Pistrui for taking time out of his schedule to visit them.

“I received a spontaneous round of applause during the first introduction,” he said. “During my remarks, when I mentioned my roots in Miller Hall, several team members cheered. I deduced that they too were Miller Hall residents. I reminded them that back in my day Miller was a men’s-only dorm – which was a fun flashback moment.”

Pistrui noted that the arrival of the Ferris State volleyball team was far from a secret on the IE University campus. Word had already spread that the reigning Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference Tournament champions, coming off a 27-8 record in Fall 2023, were coming.

“Many members of our university’s club women’s volleyball team were waiting for the Ferris team to arrive,” he said. “They served as on-the-ground peers to help the Ferris State travel group navigate the facilities, and more. Our team joined the Ferris State team for a full workout. It was not long before they formed a single group of student-athletes, which was really nice to witness. I was confident that they would be showered with more Spanish hospitality and embraced by the community of athletes from around the world.”

Reflecting on his initial introduction to Spanish culture, Pistrui did not lose sight of the significance of how he imagined this moment was for the current Ferris State volleyball student-athletes.

“It is such a nice way to be introduced to a new culture and meet locals with common interests,” he said. “In other words, it is a great learning experience for all involved.”

Pistrui and his wife, Maria Teresa, live in Spain with her extended family, which Joseph said also represents his “Spanish family.” That family circle includes two nieces, three nephews, and “an extended group too large to count,” he added.

Pistrui has remained and will continue to stay connected to Ferris State. He maintains many Bulldog connections with people who impacted his life during and since his undergraduate days.

Ferris State has been and continues to stand as a significant part of his life. He doesn’t miss opportunities to share what Ferris State did for him and others and can do for people in the future.

“I remain excited about finding new ways to support Ferris as it grows, develops, and pursues its original mission of “opportunity – industry,” he said of words stamped on the Ferris State University seal.

(Image provided by Ferris State Athletics).

Yesterday, Congressman John Moolenaar's bipartisan bill, H.R. 7188, the Shandra Eisenga Human Cell and Tissue Product Safety Act, was passed out of the House Energy and Commerce Committee’s Health Subcommittee.

The bill would require the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to conduct research and education campaigns to prevent outbreaks of tuberculosis (TB) from infected human cell and tissue products (HCTP). Additionally, the bill requires the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to update critical guidance for HCTP providers and companies.

“The tragic passing of Shandra Eisenga should have never happened, and I am pleased my bill in her memory is moving forward. This vital bipartisan legislation will prevent future tuberculosis outbreaks with additional oversight on donor material providers, and serve as an honor to Shandra’s legacy. I will continue my work to make it law and stop deadly TB outbreaks,” said Moolenaar.

The Shandra Eisenga Human Cell and Tissue Product Safety Act is a response to the passing of Shandra Eisenga of Marion on August 10, 2023, due to complications from tuberculosis she contracted through a bone graft she received in April 2023. Eisenga was one of 36 patients in seven states to contract tuberculosis from a tissue donation originating from this donor material, resulting in two deaths.

Moolenaar's bill is co-lead by Congresswoman Debbie Dingell. Senators Gary Peters and Debbie Stabenow have also introduced the legislation in the United States Senate. In August 2023, Moolenaar, Dingell, Peters, and Stabenow called on FDA Commissioner Robert Calif to do more to prevent outbreaks of TB.

In San Bernardino County, Calif., lies a town of 40,000 people called Adelanto. The name in Spanish means to advance or to progress.

Among those 40,000 people living in Adelanto is Angelica Decasas, a California native who grew up 40 miles south in Fontana where, in 2001 she graduated from A.B Miller High School.

And in the two decades since finishing high school, she has made it her personal mission in life to advance and to progress.

Decasas has two associate degrees, a certificate and a bachelor's degree and now has added a Bachelor of Science in HVACR (Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration) from Ferris State University as the latest milestone in what has been an ambitious educational journey.

Though Adelanto and Big Rapids are some 2,157 miles apart, Decasas knew that she didn't have to let that distance get in the way of her becoming a Bulldog.

Ferris State is one of only two institutions in the United States to offer a Bachelor of Science in HVACR. In keeping with the philosophy of the university, the HVACR degrees provide a balance of theory and application. This includes a solid foundation grounded in the principles of HVACR combined with extensive laboratory experience.

All of that, Decasas said, drew her in. And in April 2024, she made her second trip from California to Michigan. The first was in the summer of 2022 to do the required in-person labs for her program. Then, most recently, she walked in the Ferris State graduation ceremony, proudly sporting a mortarboard affixed with pictures of her two children, Xavier and Ximena, and a phrase in Spanish translated to "I worked hard for you and for you."

"I’m a single mom of two," she said. "I have a 15-year-old son and an 11-year-old daughter. My kids were my inspiration to keep going because I wanted to give them a better future."

Decasas said she first heard about the Ferris State program from a co-worker who was doing the same HVAC program that she was in at San Bernardino Valley College.

She was impressed to learn that Ferris State is one of only two institutions in the United States to offer a Bachelor of Science in HVACR. And she liked that the program balanced theory and application. Ferris State also does not charge more for out-of-state students.

"I had a job as a CAD drafter at a refrigeration company," she recalled. "This company encouraged me to return to school and learn more about refrigeration systems. I then enrolled (at the community college) in 2013 and got my certificate in Refrigeration and Air Conditioning and associate in science in 2020. When I heard about the Ferris State program, it just felt right."

In the fall of 2020, she started at Ferris State, driven by the opportunity to become an application engineer at her current place of employment, Arctic Cooling Systems.

"This degree would let me provide a better life for my two kids," she said simply. "And you don't hear of universities offering HVACR degrees higher than an associate or certification. The Ferris program also met my need to do things on my own time so I could still work full-time and give my kids their time, too."

In total, Decasas took 12 classes at Ferris State, 11 on the HVAC side and also a technical English class.

There were times, she admitted, where it was a grind.

"Online classes require a lot of self-discipline and commitment," she said. "It was very hard when everyone around me was out having family BBQ events and celebrating holidays, and I needed to be doing homework."

Still, she persisted, and she said the Ferris State approach played a big part in her success.

"The HVAC online program is very well laid out," she said. "I also feel that the campus visit did help tie things together."

Her professors were also a big help, she added. All were great but she had special fondness for "Professor Zentz and Professor Q" (Professors Douglas Zents and Eric Quilitzsch). And she said her favorite classes were also the two hardest classes she took at Ferris State: HVAC 462 Primary Equipment Selection and HVAC 499 Commercial HVAC System Design.

As she looks ahead to a cooler future, she also has been reflecting on the completion of a long educational journey.

"At graduation day, I was happy, excited, sad and also relieved because it took a long time," she said with a smile.

(Photo provided by Ferris State University).

Monday, May 6

• Civil – Officers were called to a residence for a civil standby.

Tuesday, May 7

• Standby – Officers were dispatched to a civil standby. The caller collected their property and left without incident.
• Noise – Officers were dispatched to a parking complaint at a local business.

Wednesday, May 8

• Nothing reported.

Thursday, May 9

• Nothing reported.

Friday, May 10

• Traffic Stop – Officers made a traffic stop with a subject with a known warrant. Subject arrested on the warrant and transported to the Osceola County Jail.

• Personal Injury Accident – Officers assisted the Osceola County Sheriff Department by responding to a report of a dirt bike accident on the trail head. Male patient was safely extricated from the woods and transported to the hospital with minor injuries. 

Saturday, May 11

• Traffic Stop – Officers conducted a traffic stop and found the operator to be under the influence of alcohol. Subject placed into custody and lodged at Osceola County Jail without incident.

• Breaking and Entering – Officers responded to the report of a breaking and entering not in progress. Suspects were identified by officers.

Sunday, May 12

• Nothing reported.

The Detroit Lions announced yesterday their 2024 regular season schedule that features nine nationally-televised games, including at least one on each broadcast network, and five prime-time games.

FULL SCHEDULE DETAILS

The Lions’ campaign to defend their NFC North crown begins with a Wild Card rematch at Ford Field against the Los Angeles Rams on Sunday Night Football, the first SNF game at Ford Field since 2018. The only other time Detroit opened their season with a Week 1, Sunday prime-time game was in 1991, when they played Washington on the road. This also marks the seventh time the Lions and Rams will play in a Week 1 game and the first time since the Lions hosted the then-St. Louis Rams to kick off the 2012 season.

The Lions immediately return to Ford Field for another postseason rematch, playing the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in Week 2 after hosting them in last year’s Divisional Round.

In Week 4, the Lions host the Seattle Seahawks on Monday Night Football, the first time the teams will ever square off in Detroit on a Monday. This will be the second time in franchise history that Detroit will host two prime-time games within the first four games of any season.

Following a bye week in Week 5, the Lions travel to play the Dallas Cowboys in Week 6, their third-straight season with a road game at Dallas. The only other time the Lions traveled to Dallas in three-straight years was over the 2004-06 seasons.

The Lions make their second appearance on Sunday Night Football in Week 10 at the Houston Texans, the first time the teams will play a game with a prime-time kickoff and the third time the Lions will ever visit the Texans.

Detroit’s 85th Thanksgiving Day Classic takes place on Thursday, Nov. 28 at 12:30 p.m. ET as the Lions welcome the Chicago Bears for the 20th all-time Thanksgiving Day battle between the two clubs and the fourth in the last seven years. Following Thanksgiving, the Lions host the Green Bay Packers on Thursday Night Football in Week 14, the third time the teams will ever meet for a Thursday prime-time game in Detroit.

The Lions travel to play the San Francisco 49ers on Monday Night Football in Week 17, the sixth Monday night showdown between the teams and the first since the Lions played the 49ers on the road on Dec. 14, 1998. Detroit returns home to complete the regular season against the Minnesota Vikings in Week 18, the first time the Lions have concluded their season against the Vikings in consecutive seasons since 1966-67.

The League’s three-game preseason schedule features the Lions visiting the New York Giants in Week 1, playing the Kansas City Chiefs on the road in Week 2 and hosting the Pittsburgh Steelers in Week 3.

LIST OF GAME SCHEDULE

PRESEASON WEEK 1 - @ New York Giants - Date TBD, Time TBD

PRESEASON WEEK 2 - @ Kansas City Chiefs - Date TBD, Time TBD

PRESEASON WEEK 3 - vs. Pittsburgh Steelers - Date TBD, Time TBD

WEEK 1 - vs. Los Angeles Rams - Sunday, Sep. 8 at 8:20 P.M.

WEEK 2 - vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers - Sunday, Sep. 15 at 1:00 P.M.

WEEK 3 - @ Arizona Cardinals - Sunday, Sep. 22 at 4:25 P.M.

WEEK 4 - vs. Seattle Seahawks - Monday, Sep. 30 at 8:15 P.M.

WEEK 5 - BYE WEEK

WEEK 6 - @ Dallas Cowboys - Sunday, Oct. 13 at 4:25 P.M.

WEEK 7 - @ Minnesota Vikings - Sunday, Oct. 20 at 1:00 P.M.

WEEK 8 - vs. Tennessee Titans - Sunday, Oct. 27 at 1:00 P.M.

WEEK 9 - @ Green Bay Packers - Sunday, Nov. 3 at 4:25 P.M.

WEEK 10 - @ Houston Texans - Sunday, Nov. 10 at 8:20 P.M.

WEEK 11 - vs. Jacksonville Jaguars - Sunday, Nov. 17 at 1:00 P.M.

WEEK 12 - @ Indianapolis Colts - Sunday, Nov. 24 at 1:00 P.M.

WEEK 13 - vs. Chicago Bears - Thursday, Nov. 28 at 12:30 P.M.

WEEK 14 - vs. Green Bay Packers - Thursday, Dec. 5 at 8:15 P.M.

WEEK 15 - vs. Buffalo Bills - Sunday, Dec. 15 at 4:25 P.M.

WEEK 16 - @ Chicago Bears - Sunday, Dec. 22 at 1:00 P.M.

WEEK 17 - @ San Francisco 49ers - Monday, Dec. 30 at 8:15 P.M.

WEEK 18 - vs. Minnesota Vikings - Date TBD, Time TBD

FLEXIBLE SCHEDULING
This season, “flexible scheduling” for Sunday Night Football may be used up to twice between Weeks 5-10, and in the NFL’s discretion during Weeks 11-17; for Monday Night Football in the NFL’s discretion in Weeks 12-17; and for Thursday Night Football it may be used up to twice between Weeks 13-17. During these Flex Scheduling Windows, the games initially scheduled for Sunday Night Football (on NBC), Monday Night Football (on ESPN or ABC), and Thursday Night Football (on Amazon Prime Video) are tentatively scheduled and subject to change. Only Sunday afternoon games (or those listed as TBD) are eligible to be moved to Sunday night, Monday night, or Thursday night, in which case the initially scheduled Sunday/Monday night game would be moved to Sunday afternoon.  Sunday afternoon games may also be moved between 1:00 p.m. and 4:05 p.m. or 4:25 p.m. ET. As in prior seasons, for Week 18, the final weekend of the season, the scheduling of the Saturday, Sunday afternoon, and the Sunday night games is not assigned. In Week 18, two games will be played on Saturday (4:30 PM ET and 8:15 PM ET) with the remainder to be played on Sunday afternoon (1:00 PM ET and 4:25 PM ET) and one matchup to be played on Sunday night (8:20 PM ET). Specific dates, start times, and networks for Week 18 matchups will be determined and announced following the conclusion of Week 17. For more information about NFL Flexible Scheduling, please visit https://www.nfl.com/schedules/flexible-scheduling-procedures.

2024 DETROIT LIONS SINGLE-GAME TICKETS
Limited inventory single game tickets will be available when the Detroit Lions 2024 schedule is released at www.detroitlions.com/tickets via Ticketmaster while supplies last. As a reminder, Ticketmaster’s NFL Ticket Exchange is the official resale partner of the NFL and the Detroit Lions.

(Image provided by Detroit Lions Communications).

In a city commission meeting on Monday, May 13, the City of Big Rapids Board of Commissioners unanimously approved the recension of fees for the Charles E. Fairman Community Pool this coming summer.

“I think it’s a wonderful to have free swimming for all,” Mayor Fred Guenther said. “It’s going to be fun to see the numbers this fall.”

The pool previously charged five dollars for open swim sessions in 2023. The pool is planning for opening day on Monday, June 10 and will remain open until Friday, Aug. 9. 

Swim lessons will also be available this year, beginning on June 24 with registration opening between June 10 and June 14. All Fridays will also be family nights, where swimmers can bring tubes, floats, beach balls, and more fun items.

For more information on the pool, including hours and class information, visit their Facebook page at “City of Big Rapids Charles E. Fairman Community Pool” and the Parks and Recreation website at www.brpr.org.

Monday, May 6

• No incidents reported.

Tuesday, May 7

• An officer investigated a call regarding a capsized boat found by the bridge. After investigating, it turned out to be from the construction crew working on the bridge. No issues.

• Officers took a complaint of an assault. The matter will be turned over to the prosecutor for review.

• Officers arrested a 32-year-old male on an outstanding warrant for probation violation.

Wednesday, May 8

• While on patrol, an officer observed an individual acting suspicious. After talking to the 29-year-old male, he was arrested with an outstanding felony warrant from Roscommon County and taken into custody.
• An officer investigated a possible operating under the influence of marijuana. Upon further investigation the driver had used earlier in the day and was not impaired.
• An officer assisted a caller with giving him a breath test. The caller’s interlock device on his vehicle that he has to blow in to start the vehicle had malfunctioned.
• While patrolling, an officer observed a woman fall in a parking lot. The officer checked on the woman who refused medical treatment.

Thursday, May 9

• Officers transported an individual experiencing mental health issues to the hospital for evaluation.

• Officers received information about possible drug activity. The matter is under investigation.

• An officer conducted a traffic stop after a driver did not make a proper stop at a stop sign. Upon further investigation, he was given an appearance citation for driving with a revoked license.

Friday, May 10

• An officer responded to a call from a local business regarding a possible theft. The case is still under investigation.

• An officer assisted CPS making a home visit. No issues.

Saturday, May 11

• An officer issued a grass abatement for violating city ordinances.

• An officer responded to a complaint of a teen violating probation. The matter will be referred to the probation officer.

• An officer responded to a call from a local business owner regarding the improper disposal of some hypodermic needles. The matter is under investigation.

• An officer was dispatched to a domestic assault. A report was taken. The offender had left the residence and could not be located. A 31-year-old male was arrested the next day on charges of aggravated domestic assault regarding this matter.

Sunday, May 12

• No incidents reported.

According to a post by the City of Big Rapids, there will be lane closures throughout Wednesday on State Street.

The construction is slated to take place between Fuller Avenue and Gilbert Road starting at 9:00 A.M. The City says crews will start on the northbound side and proceed south to north. Once that side is finished, they will switch to the southbound side and work from north to south. This is one of three borings on the docket coming up.

This is the second closure in the area this week, as 16 Mile Road between 172nd Avenue and 180th Avenue was closed Tuesday for a culvert replacement. Traffic was detoured via 172nd Avenue to M-20 and Bronson Avenue to M-20.

The Road Commission and City of Big Rapids ask for travelers to please plan according as there will be limited to no through traffic allowed during the duration of this construction. 

Five innovative projects from around the world targeting food insecurity, waste/pollution and resource conservation have been selected by expert judges for public presentation in mid-May in Michigan in the finale of Wege Prize.

The annual event attracts attention from leaders in education, environmental groups, and regional government to learn about the budding solutions from universities around the world.

Wege Prize, developed by the Wege Center for Sustainable Design at Kendall College of Art and Design of Ferris State University with the support of The Wege Foundation, is among the world’s most prominent competitions for sustainable, circular economy ideas, igniting game-changing solutions for the future with real-world application and impact.

“We are delighted to welcome five teams of students representing nine countries to Grand Rapids for wide public recognition of their impactful solutions and their ability to collaborate across institutional, disciplinary, and cultural boundaries to redesign the way economies work,” said Gayle DeBruyn, an award-winning KCAD professor who is also leader of Wege Prize.

Each year five student finalist teams from around the world share a purse of $65,000 and benefit from expert judges’ input throughout the competition’s nine-month program.

“For me, Wege Prize is more than a platform,” said Charles Muiruri Munga of Kenya and the finalist team Senene Farm that is addressing Tanzania’s child malnutrition with an alternative protein. “I will say it’s a testament, that young people have the power to transform the world through their ideas.”

With team collaborations united through the students varied perspectives in engineering, science, agriculture, business, and economics, this year’s participants’ real-world concepts raise the bar on products and practices for a circular economy.

For 2024, Wege Prize is showcasing five of the nearly 60 entries from teams hailing from 38 counties across five continents. Several of the expert-reviewed designs created by this year’s finalist student teams employ creative engineering, energy-saving and biodegradable approaches.

“To solve a big problem, a wicked problem, sometimes someone will tell you it’s impossible…but that’s not what is in my mind,” said Blaise Shema of Rwanda, who, with his finalist team, Huuzagro, is addressing plastics pollution. Shema adds, “You will reach what you want when you don’t stop…and when you have a good team and good mentors, when you have all of that, you can make it.” 

The teams competing for $65,000 in total cash prizes will present their solutions to a public audience at 10 a.m. on May 17 at KCAD and streaming live online at WegePrize.org.

This year’s multidisciplinary teams include:

• EcoFeed Pioneers

Evolving the animal feed landscape to reduce reliance on the import of scarce crops like soybeans and corn, this team of conservation agriculture, biochemistry, and engineering students from two universities in Rwanda is integrating protein-rich alfalfa with innovative biorefinery techniques to create a sustainable food supply for both humans and livestock.

 “Our solution is an environmentally friendly eco-friendly type of production– something that is viable for small and medium scale farmers,” said team leader Mabano Trésor.

• EcoCycle

This team of biomedical, physics, business, biochemistry, and economic students in China, Denmark, Germany, and Norway is assisting small-scale farms in reimagining organic waste management by using microbial engineering and enzymes to turn agricultural waste into organic fertilizers, cutting costs and minimizing environmental impact.

“Globally, our solution has the potential to be a game-changer in regions such as Asia or Africa, where the overuse of chemicals fertilizers and pesticide poses significant environmental and health risk,” says team member Yansi Wu.

• FruiFresh

Alleviating post-harvest losses for tomato farmers in Rwanda and retailers is the priority for this Rwandan team of conservation agriculture, agricultural economics, biotechnology, and animal production students from three universities in Rwanda. Their work involves building large, naturally evaporative charcoal cooling facilities crafted from locally available materials and using little to no electricity to store produce prior to customer purchase.

“We keep saying, ‘this is our beginning. We have to keep pushing,’” said Kamanzi Claudine of the team.

• Huuzagro

To address plastic pollution in Rwanda this student team in Poland and Rwanda studying law, conservation agriculture, software engineering, environmental sciences and crop production are transforming industrial and household food waste into biodegradable packaging paired with a circular collection system that uses Black Soldier flies to break down residual waste into eco-friendly compost and larva protein feeds.

“Diversification in the team makes the team strong,” said team member Blaise Shema. “When you are working on a big project, you need diversified ideas. Those will come from the background of the team members.”

• Senene Farm

Taking on child malnutrition in Tanzania by increasing the production of the Senene—a protein rich longhorn grasshopper and alternative protein source—this multidisciplinary team of university students in Costa Rica, the United States, and Tanzania studying agricultural science and natural resource management, medicine, and civil engineering is developing a groundbreaking rearing facility using vertical farming to cultivate sustainable feed sources and create a more circular production cycle.

“At the global level we want to contribute to be part of the solution that is working to make sure that we are ensuring food security,” said the team’s Anthony Ilalio Mbunju.

Guided by an international scope of experts in design, sustainability, academics, and economics, the team’s solutions were selected from among 58 entries devised by 290 students across 107 academic institutions.

With the input from Wege Prize’s pool of expert judges, the five finalist teams’ research, market analysis, real-world prototyping and testing helped advance their informal proposals into robust and feasible solutions.

“These teams know that collaboration and design thinking are keys to resolving the world’s critical issues,” DeBruyn said. “By working in stepped phases with our judge’s guidance over nine months, the teams are confronting wicked problems with viable solutions.”

Wege Prize engages student teams in solving complex, layered problems with a diverse, collaborative approach. The competition’s aim for developing new, tangible solutions to producing and consuming essential goods in sustainable ways looks at how the innovations can be applied and used after the competition ends.

(Images provided by Ferris State University).

The top-seeded Cardinals took on second place and rival Reed City at home on Monday, in which Big Rapids won game one 9-0 behind three hits and four RBIs from senior Marissa Warren. The Cardinals took an early 2-0 lead in the first, slowly tacked on runs in the third, fourth, and fifth innings, and added a three-run home run from Warren in the sixth to seal the deal. Jaelynn Schuberg added a triple and a single along with Pharis Carroll notching two singles. Cailin Knoop went seven innings for Big Rapids in the circle, striking out 13 batters and only giving up three hits. 

Isabell Guy started for Reed City, giving up 10 hits and nine runs in 5 1/3 innings of work. She was relieved by Morgan Hammond for the final two outs. Kaylin Goodman, Paityn Enos, and Morgan Hammond each combined for Reed City’s three hits on the night. 

"I was very impressed with our focus and intensity the moment we stepped on the field,” Head coach Dawn Thompson said. “Knoop was dominant on the mound in game one and our hitters were very disciplined at the plate.”

In game two, Reed City fought back scoring the first run of the game in the second inning and added three runs in the top of the third. The Coyotes led 8-5 heading to the bottom of the sixth, where Big Rapids rallied for five runs including three runs following a Reed City fielding error. The Coyotes would start the seventh inning with a single, but three straight strikeouts from Knoop would seal the 10-8 win for Big Rapids.

“Game two was a battle as both teams made some mistakes in the field, but we were able to rally in the bottom of the sixth to get the win,” Thompson said. “Credit Reed City as they bounced back quickly in game two and put the pressure on our defense. They are a good ballclub and are having a great year as well. I am very proud of our girls for their resiliency and fight to win."

Knoop earned her second win of the night following seven innings of work, nine hits, eight runs, and 11 strikeouts. Burga and Taylor led Big Rapids with two hits apiece at the plate, three runs scored, and two RBIs. Caroll and Taylor each had a triple with Brooke-Lynn Burga adding a double.

For Reed City, Guy went five innings and gave up five hits and four earned runs. Hammond relieved the final inning, giving up two hits and four runs with three of them being unearned. Enos led Reed City with two singles and a double with Hadyn Cutler and Guy each adding two hits. Goodman and Cutler each scored twice from Reed City.

Big Rapids moves to 23-1 on the year with Reed City falling to 20-5. Both teams will resume action on Tuesday and Wendesday respectfully.

On Tuesday, May 14 at 09:14 A.M., deputies from the Mecosta County Sheriff's Office were dispatched to West Chippewa Lake Road and Bullhead Lake Drive in Chippewa Township for a single vehicle crash. 

The investigation revealed that a 66-year-old female from Chippewa Lake was heading south bound on Bullhead Lake Drive where she went off the road, hit a power pole guide wire, then hit a tree. It’s believed the driver suffered a medical episode caused her to go off the road. 

The driver was transported from the scene by EMS and taken to the Big Rapids Hospital for non-life threatening injuries. Deputies were assisted on scene by the Morton Township Fire Department, Chippewa Township Fire Deaprtment, Michigan State Police, Huffs Towing, Mecosta County EMS, Tri-County Electric and Meceola Central Dispatch.

A pair of games that could potentially decide the conference crown went down on Monday night at Big Rapids High School.

Reed City entered the contest 13-6 with a desperate need for a sweep against the 19-win Cardinals to stay in the conference title race. Unfortunately for the Coyotes, Big Rapids would sweep their senior day slate with 3-0 and 16-3 victories.

Game one’s pitching duel saw a combined 23 strikeouts from Reed City’s Max Hammond and Big Rapids’ Ty Gielczyk. Gielczyk went all seven innings while only allowing two hits and striking out 12. Isaac Zocco led the Cardinals with a triple and a single, two runs scored, and an RBI. Owen Craven scored the third run for Big Rapids.

Hammond went 5 2/3 innings on the mound for Reed City, allowing three runs on two hits with six walks and 11 strikeouts. Spencer Hansen and Hammond had the lone hits for the Coyotes.

“Max is an elite arm, and his velocity was the best I’ve seen,” Scarpelli said. “Our hitters stayed poised and attacked strikes. Ty Gielcyzk has now thrown two consecutive shutouts and has been dominant on the mound.”

Big Rapids blew open game two with eight first inning runs. Reed City would match the Cardinals’ two runs in the second and third innings but six runs in the fourth would be enough for Big Rapids to hold off the Coyotes following the fifth. The Cardinals were led by three triples and three runs scored from Caiden Schuberg and a double and two singles from Nick Teceno. Schuberg and Mason McNeilly registered four RBIs in the contest. Cole Haist went four innings on the mound for the Cardinals, allowing three hits and two runs on five strikeouts and three walks. Noah Sweppenheiser closed the final inning after allowing one run on one hit. 

Reed City was led by a triple and two singles from Hammond, followed by a single from Hansen. Hammond went 5 2/3 innings allowing three runs on two hits with six walks and 11 strikeouts. Caleb Somers started the game for the Coyotes and went one inning after allowing six earned runs on five hits. Maverick Conklin went three innings in relief, allowing eight runs on eight hits. 

According to Coach Scarpelli, he saw great things from his seniors that started in game two.

“Our hitters were ready to go and piled on runs early and consistently. Cole Haist wasn’t his sharpest, but he battled through and got it done. It was senior day, and every senior was able to contribute. Corbin Clark led the way with an RBI single. We are really going to miss these guys next year.”

The Cardinals move to 21-3 on the year while Reed City falls to 13-8. Big Rapids travels to Lakeview tonight in a doubleheader with the Wildcats while Reed City will host Manistee on Wednesday.

Monday, May 6

• At around 11:50 A.M., deputies made a traffic stop in Aetna TWP. The traffic stop resulted in the male driver being arrested on warrants. He was lodged at the Mecosta County Jail.

Calls for Service: 24

Tuesday, May 7

• At around 3:00 P.M., deputies recovered a stolen handgun  in Mecosta TWP. The handgun was stolen out of a residence in Colfax TWP last month. Additional investigation led to the arrest of the male subject involved in the theft. He was lodged at the Mecosta County Jail.

Calls for Service: 14

Traffic Accidents: 1

Wednesday, May 8

• At 3:46 P.M., deputies responded to a retail fraud complaint, at a business in Morton TWP.  Additional investigation led to the identification of the female suspect. The female suspect was located and issued an appearance ticket. The stolen merchandise was recovered and returned to the store.

• At 10:09 P.M., deputies made a warrant arrest at a residence in Martiny TWP. Two Female subjects were arrested on  warrants. Both were lodged at the Mecosta County Jail.

Calls for Service: 29

Traffic Accidents: 4

Thursday, May 9

Calls for Service: 14

Traffic Accidents: 2

Friday, May 10

Calls for Service: 22

Traffic Accidents: 2

Saturday, May 11

• At around 6:06 P.M., deputies made a warrant arrest at a residence in Aetna TWP. A male subject was arrested on a warrant.

Calls for Service: 18

Traffic Accidents: 2

Sunday, May 12

Calls for Service: 8

Traffic Accidents: 2

Another memorable championship season come to a close on Monday for the Ferris State University men's tennis squad as the Bulldogs fell to rival Grand Valley State University 4-0 in a closely contested NCAA Tournament match.

The visiting Lakers, who were beaten by Ferris State in GLIAC regular season play this year, took the doubles point and captured the first three completed singles matches to notch the win. GVSU will advance to face either Wayne State or Tiffin universities on Tuesday in Big Rapids.

While GVSU won the first three completed singles contests, the matches were close as five of the is six singles encounters went to third sets.

The Lakers got off to a strong start in doubles play with a 6-3 win at one doubles and a 6-4 decision at two doubles. In singles play, the Lakers got a straight-set win at six singles followed by a three-set triumph at the fourth spot in the lineup before closing out the match in three sets at one singles.

With the setback, Ferris State closed the year with a 17-5 overall record.

The Bulldogs hosted NCAA Regional men's action in Big Rapids for the first time since the 2016-17 season and made their ninth consecutive tournament berth this season. It was also FSU's 27th all-time NCAA Tourney appearance.

The Bulldog men's team won this year's GLIAC Regular-Season Championship along with the league postseason tournament title. This year's regular-season title marked FSU's 22nd all-time crown and the Bulldogs captured their first conference tournament championship in three years. The Bulldog men were a perfect 6-0 in GLIAC regular-season action.

On Sunday, May 12 at approximately 8:07 P.M., deputies were dispatched to Pierce Road near 160^th Avenue in Austin Township for a crash involving a car and buggy.

Investigation found that a 31-year-old male driver from Wyoming (MI) was travelling westbound when he came up on an Amish buggy heading westbound on the roadway carrying eight passengers, six of which were kids under the age of 13. The male attempted to swerve last minute to avoid the buggy but was unable to avoid hitting the buggy. A 10-year-old Amish female from Stanwood was ejected from the buggy. She was transported to Devos Childrens Hospital in Grand Rapids for non-life-threatening injuries. No other occupants of the Amish buggy or vehicle were injured. 

Alcohol and drugs were not suspected in the cause of the accident. Deputies were assisted on scene by Mecosta Twp Fire/Rescue, Mecosta County EMS, Morton Township Fire/Rescue, Meceola Central Dispatch and Michigan State Police.

Ferris State University is one of the best places in the nation for student-athletes to compete in top programs while earning a quality education, according to University Magazine. 

University Magazine is an online publication created at University of Windsor in Canada. It published a ranking of leading choices for standout prospective student-athletes to consider ahead of the 2024-25 academic year and beyond. University Magazine is a student-generated resource that provides tips on student life, financial considerations, career options, academic majors, athletics, and more.

Ferris State, which ranked 19th, was one of only two Michigan schools to be lauded among the top 25 on the full list. Baylor University in Texas was in the top spot.  

“Ferris State University stands out as the premier institution for collegiate athletics in 2024,” the publication states. “Known for its exceptional sports programs, the university fosters a robust competitive spirit and nurtures top-tier athletes. With state-of-the-art facilities and experienced coaching staff, Ferris State offers athletes the resources to excel in their sports and academic endeavors, making it the go-to- choice for aspiring sports professionals.”  

One of Ferris State’s first moments soaring on the national athletics map came during its 2018 run to the men’s basketball NCAA Division II National Championship, culminating in a thrilling 71-69 win over South Dakota’s Northern State. In 2021 and 2022, the football team rushed to dominating NCAA Division II National Championship wins over Valdosta State of Georgia and Colorado School of Mines.

In Spring 2024, The Bulldog men’s and women’s basketball teams put the “madness” in March Madness after winning NCAA Division II Midwest Region championships to advance to their respective Elite Eight tournaments, with the women’s team advancing to the Final Four. 

Beyond its national and regional successes, Ferris State continues to make a mark in GLIAC competition in numerous sports. In Fall 2023, the Bulldog volleyball team won its third consecutive Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference championship and nine of the last 10. 

The 2023-24 academic year also has GLIAC championships for women’s golf, men’s tennis, women’s tennis, men’s basketball, and volleyball. The men's golf team won the Spring 2023 GLIAC championship.

Head coach Mark Doren, who earned the GLIAC Coaching Staff of the Year, led the men’s and women’s tennis teams to conference championships and NCAA tournament berths.

Ferris State softball rookie first baseman Alexis Kozlowski received the 2024 GLIAC Freshman of the Year Award. It’s the second consecutive season a Bulldog has claimed the honor.

Beyond team success, student-athletes earned notable achievements. Basketball star Chloe Idoni earned College Sports Communicators Academic All-America Team honors for the second consecutive season. Previously, Idoni was a GLIAC Commissioner’s Award honoree for excellence.

The Bulldog football team has had multiple alumni earning opportunities with National Football League franchises. Defensive back Shon Stephens was invited to the Philadelphia Eagles’ camp, and wide receiver Xavier Wade picked up a similar invite from the Pittsburgh Steelers. Former Bulldog football tight end and men’s basketball standout Mason Pline has signed as a free agent with the San Francisco 49ers.

The women's soccer program won a regional championship in 2022 and advanced to the NCAA Division II Final Four.

University Magazine is a student-generated resource that provides tips on student life, financial considerations, career options, academic majors, athletics, and more. 

(Image provided by Ferris State University).

Big Rapids City Commission meets tonight at City Hall with a full agenda.

One main event includes the introduction of new Manna Pantry Excutive Director, Julia Harris. There also will be a review of the 2024/2025 city budget presentation by City Treasurer, Carla Staffen.

General business items include resolutions of bids for the following projects:

• Awarding bid to transfer equipment from a 1998 dump truck to a 2022 international dump truck

• Awarding contract for instrumentation and controls provider at the water and wastewater plants

  Rescinding the Charles E. Fairman 2024 Swimming Pool fee schedule

• Accepting City Clerk Tamyra Gillis' retirement notice

• Appointing members to the City Clerk’s hiring committee

The meeting will also include a study session and feedback from Director of Community Development Michelle Stenger.

All city commission meetings are available to the public. Estimated start time of the meeting is 6:30 P.M.

On May 11 at 8:40 A.M., deputies from the Mecosta County Sheriff's Office were dispatched to McKinley Road near 175th Avenue for an accident involving a car and pedestrian.

Further investigation found that a 25-year old male from Mount Pleasant was driving eastbound while a 31-year-old male from Big Rapids was walking westbound on a fog line in the eastbound lane. The Mount Pleasant male then struck the Big Rapids male, missing two other pedestrians.  

The Big Rapids male was transported to the Big Rapids Corewell Health Hospital for minor non life-threatening injuries. Deputies were assisted by Meceola Central Dispatch, Mecosta County EMS, Big Rapids Department of Public Safety, and Colfax Township Rescue.

The Ferris State University men's golf team advanced to the 2024 NCAA Division II National Championships in Florida as the Bulldogs came away with a fifth-place team finish at the NCAA D2 Midwest/Central Super Regional Championships that wrapped up on Saturday in Edmond, Okla.

The Bulldogs shot a final-round 277 team figure and finished at 834 or six-under for the 54-hole super regional tournament to earn their spot in the national championships. The top five teams in the super regional advanced to the national championships set for May 21 to 25 in Winter Garden, Fla.

This year's national championships berth represents Ferris State’s 17th all-time in program history and first since 2019.

Ferris State's six-under total was three strokes ahead of sixth-place Missouri University of Science and Technology, which finished at 837 or three-under for the three days of competition. The Bulldogs had entered the final round tied for fourth place overall with both Henderson State University and Missouri S&T in the 20-team field. Ferris State carded a 279 team score in Thursday's opening round before coming back with a 278 on Friday and closing with a 277 in the last round.

The regional winner at Kickingbird Golf Course was Central Oklahoma University, which climbed two spots in the final round to capture the team championship with a 823 (-17) figure. Henderson State moved up two spots to finish at 824 overall (-16), shooting a 267 in the final round, to finish second. Harding took third place (830) and Grand Valley State University fourth (831), joining Ferris State in the top five for the trip to nationals.

Ferris State freshman McCoy Biagioli had a strong final round, carding an impressive six-under 64 score to finish tied for third individually at 203 for the tournament. He was followed by Nathan Kraynyk in sixth place as he shot a 69 in the last round and came in at 204 overall.

Ferris State’s Caleb Bond shot a one-over 71 on Saturday and placed tied for 10th on the leaderboard at 206 for the tournament while Zach Koerner notched a final-round 73 and placed tied for 87th with a 221 total. Finally, Drayton Cleaver garnered a 78 in the final 18 holes of play and wound up 107th overall.

The par 70 course measured in at 6,944 yards.

The Midwest/Central Regional was hosted by Southern Nazarene University and consisted of 10 teams from the Midwest Region along with 10 from the Central Region. Four individuals from each region also competed in the 54-hole tournament.

The top five teams and the top two student-athletes not with a team from each regional advanced to the finals set for May 21 to 25 at the Orange Country National Golf Center and Lodge in Winter Garden, Fla. The finals will be hosted by Rollins College and the Greater Orlando Sports Commission.

The Bulldogs earned runner-up honors in the 2017 NCAA-II Midwest/Central Super Regional in Kearney, Neb., before going on to a national quarterfinal finish. In 2019, the Bulldogs placed tied for third at the super regional and reached the NCAA D2 National Championships, placing 20th overall.

Ferris State also made the field three years ago in 2021, finishing 10th overall in Super Regional play, before earning a berth and placing ninth overall last season in regional play in Ferris State's most recent appearance.

This year makes this the 19th time in the past 21 years in which the Bulldogs have had representation in the NCAA Tournament when it has been held. The stretch of NCAA Championship representation in men's golf ranks as one of the best stretches in the country.

Ferris State captured its 22nd all-time GLIAC Championship by beating rival Grand Valley State in the league finale on April 14 in Augusta, Mich.