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| Advisory Committee want to inform the public |
| The Advisory Committee formed to work together and come up with a plan on how to best inform the public on the Wastewater Treatment Plant expansion will meet several times before the scheduled March 20th election. Manistee City Manager Mitch Deisch say’s the next step is to create storyboards and get them out to different service organizations and set up meetings to help get the word out to the citizens of Manistee so they can make an informed and educated decision on the Expansion project...more |
| Lake County Snowmobile Accident |
| The Lake County Sheriff’s Office responded to the scene of a fatal snowmobile accident late last night. According to Lake County Undersheriff Mike Dermeyer, the accident claimed the life of 26-year-old David Allen Kubasiak from Bronson, Michigan, who sustained injuries after striking a tree on Peacock Trail just north of one and a Half mile road in Peacock township...more |
| MSU Inservice deadline today |
| Manistee County MSU Extension is reminding residents the deadline to sign up for the "Growers In-Service" is coming up. The program being held on February 12th at 412 Fourth Street from 9am to 4pm in Manistee will cover many different topics...more |
| Link Michigan Task Force forum |
| People interested in the five County Link Michigan Task force will want to attend today’s meeting at West Shore Community College. Members of the Task Force will offer their final report and discussion through a Public Forum this afternoon...more |
| Deaths not a result of bad dope |
| Manistee City Police today say the County Medical Examiner has completed his investigation into the deaths of two Manistee residents. Doctor Michael Barna, MD say’s Christopher Burton died of a drug overdose on December 20th and Ryan Mallison died on December 28th of a deadly mix of Oxycontin and ethanol and even though there have been many rumors in the community that the deaths were the result of bad dope on the streets there is nothing that would indicate that the drugs taken were laced with any other poisonous substances...more |
| Investigations continue for watervale drowning |
| Investigators say a 37-year old woman who was found dead near Lower Herring Lake in Benzie County last October was still alive when she went into the water. Florence Unger’s Husband is the only suspect in connection with her death and has not been charged...more |
| Irons woman fails to out run Police |
| An Irons woman driving under the influence of alcohol tried to out run State Police during heavy show conditions. Manistee Troopers say around 6:30 last evening they tried to pull over a 50-year old Irons woman on US-31 in Parkdale when she attempted to elude the troopers on M-55 but gave up after an 8-mile chase in Stronach Township near Marzinski Road...more |
| Benzie County woman charged with hit and run |
| A 48-year old Benzie County woman is in jail this morning facing "hit and run" charges. Last night around 7 o’clock, a 60-year old woman was snow blowing her driveway on Grace Road in Gilmore Township when she was hit by a car...more |
| Lake County authorities nab a shooting suspect |
| A 25-year-old downstate man wanted for attempted murder
has been found in Lake County. Christopher James of
Detroit was arrested Tuesday in an apartment complex in
Baldwin for possession of marijuana and intent to deliver...more |
| Fink sentencing delayed...again |
| The sentencing for a Manistee County man accused in a two County breaking and entering ring will have his sentencing again delayed. 21-year old Adam Paul Fink of Kaleva had his first and second sentencing dates delayed since August last year to determine his involvement in the crimes...more |
| Cadillac man busted on various charges |
| After brandishing a handgun at a gas station in Mesick a 34-year old Cadillac Man is arrested while he was found stuck in a ditch in Manistee County. State police were alerted early Sunday morning that a man tried to rob the Crossroads gas station with a handgun...more |
| Stunt turns into snowmobile accident |
| A 44-year old Muskegon man was injured after trying to jump his snowmobile near Crystal Mountian Resort. State Police say the incident occurred off North County Line Road in Springdale Township about 3:30pm on Sunday...more |
| Armed part dropped from robbery charges |
| A Muskegon man had his charges of armed robbery amended at his recent District Court appearance on the charges. When 36-year old Gerald Silvey demanded cash at the Northern Pass Marathon in Manistee on November 26th the only weapon he had was his finger made to look like he had a gun in his pocket...more |
| Blood shortage in Michigan |
| The American Red Cross has issued a national appeal for immediate donations due to the current blood shortage. West Shore Chapter of the American Red Cross worker Vicki Krolczyk says January is a typical time of year for low blood supplies...more |
| Broadband internet meeting at WSCC |
| The Mason, Lake, Manistee, Newaygo and Oceana Link Michigan Task Force will hold a public forum on their final report concerning broadband internet access. The (MBDA) Michigan Broadband Development Authority’s Joe Rose explains that the project was initiated statewide by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) and the MBDA funded by a 91-thousand 163-dollar Link Michigan Planning grant and over 30-thousand dollars in matching funds from each of the five counties...more |
| Tribunal rules against TES in Manistee |
| After almost 10-years the Michigan Tax Tribunal makes a decision against the TES Filer City Station concerning the overpayment of taxes. The tribunal ruled that TES now owes an additional one-million dollars in taxes instead of being refunded about 8-million dollars which Tondu President and part owner of the Filer City station, Joe Tondu says the company has been forced to pay over the last decade...more |
| Manistee Transportation is awarded funds |
| Manistee County Transportation is one of many facilities and projects in Northern Michigan sharing in millions of dollars in the Omnibus Appropriations bill. Senator’s Carl Levin and Debbie Stabenow made the announcement where Manistee County Transportation Incorporated Dial-A-Ride will receive $30,000 for replacement buses...more |
| Manistee Commissioners will talk to Aurora |
| Manistee County Board of Commissioners have invited the Aurora Association who have an interest in the proposed Northern Lights power plant to speak at their Study Session. The session, being held in the Board of Commissioners room at the Courthouse, will concern information with Aurora and other interested groups on various aspects of the proposed project...more |
| B and E suspect to be sentenced |
| Sentencing for one of three men charged with several breaking and enterings from Manistee to Benzie County will be held today. 21-year old Adam Paul Fink of Kaleva took a plea bargain last March for his part in the crimes...more |
| Pre-lim for robbery suspect |
| The preliminary hearing for a Muskegon man who was caught trying to rob a Manistee gas station store will be held today. 36-year old Gerald Silvey, charged with armed robbery and possession of cocaine, pointed a gun at the clerk and demanded money at the Northern Pass Marathon Station north of Manistee on November 26th...more |
| Scottville man waives his pre-lim |
| A Scottville man waived his preliminary hearing in 79th District Court Wednesday in connection with the stabbing death of a 27-year old man also of Scottville. Peter Paul Mazurek is accused of stabbing Matthew John in the chest at a home in Scottville on January 6th...more |
| Suspect awaits sentencing on B and E's |
| A Benzie County man facing a charge of trying to escape from jail gets a break in Circuit Court. 31-year old Jonathan Hamilton was found guily of probation violation for attempting to escape from the benzie jail by breaking a small window and getting his head and arm out before getting stuck and calling a guard for help back in September last year, hamilton was facing 5-years on the escape charge that was dropped...more |
| A fundraiser planed for environmental group |
| As the environmental grassroots group TREES (Trees Rights Equal Environmental Sense) awaits the next step to preserve trees in the Village of Onekama, fund raisers to offset court costs continue. The benefit concert and silent auction for TREES is on February 8th at the Manistee County Fairgrounds sponsored by the Spirit of the Woods Music Association...more |
| Manistee Commissioners meet |
| The Manistee County Board of Commissioners discussed the vacant County Planner position at their regular meeting. An Executive Committee will meet with the Planning Commission and discuss weather or not the position should be filled or not...more |
| Ludington woman is given a light sentence |
| A Ludington woman is handed down a light sentence after her conviction of attempted armed robbery in Mason County. 48-year old Linda Ellen St...more |
| Mason County man in court for open murder |
| A Mason County man charged in connection with the fatal stabbing of 27-year old Matthew John of Scottville will be in Court today. 50-year old Peter Paul Mazurek is charged with open murder after allegedly stabbing John in the chest at a Scottville home in the morning hours on January 6th...more |
| Manistee City Council set election date |
| The Manistee City Council opened their meeting with the approval of a bond election for the expansion project at the Wastewater Treatment Plant. The special election will be on Tuesday March 30th...more |
| Scottville Commissioners meet |
| Last night was the last meeting of the Scottville City Commission for Commissioner at Large George Wilson. Wilson's recent move to Ludington excludes him from making decisions on behalf of the City of Scottville...more |
| A Ludington woman faces sentencing |
| The fate of a Ludington woman who chose not to rob the Rite Aid with a gun, will be decided in 51st Circuit Court today. 48-year old Linda Ellen St...more |
| SCORE program begins on Friday |
| The Manistee Economic Council and Chamber Alliance and the local chapter of SCORE (Service Corps of Retired Executives) are sponsoring a new program. “Friday Business Breaks with SCORE” will begin on Friday January 23rd at Good’s on River Street...more |
| The Michigan DEQ offers new plan for PCA |
| The Michigan Department of Environmental Quality has proposed to the Packaging Corporation of America (PCA) that they can leave their pipeline where it’s at, but with a huge extension. The DEQ said last week that instead of rerouting the PCA pipeline down the Manistee River, a proposal that has been fought by Manistee Officials, that they would allow it to be extended some two miles out into Lake Michigan saving the Filer City Company about 2...more |
| Martin Luther King program in Manistee |
| An award winning author and playwright as well as the nationally recognized portrayer of Dr. Martin Luther King will present “Let Freedom Ring” in Manistee...more |
| Manistee skier continues her quest in Europe |
| In Austria today Manistee skier Lyndee Janowiak continues her quest for Olympic gold. Most recently Janowiak completed her first series of FIS races in Europe...more |
| Woman busted after she struck with a snowmobile |
| A 42-year old Kaleva woman was arrested after her vehicle was struck by a snowmobile and police found she was under the influence of drugs. At around 6pm last evening the snowmobile, driven by a 16-year old Kaleva female, failed to stop when entering onto 9-mile Road near Kaleva Street in Maple Grove Township in Manistee County and struck the vehicle...more |
| West Shore Healthcare receives more funds |
| The West Shore Medical Center Auxiliary makes another donation to the West Shore Healthcare Foundation in Manistee. Part of a 5-year,$95,000 pledge the auxiliary made in 2002 to the capital budget equipment needs the auxiliary contributed $15,500 bringing their total donations to date to $60,000...more |
| A Northern Michigan Hospital earns accrediation |
| A Benzie County Hospital earns accrediation from the National Association for the Education of Young Children. The nations leading organization of early childhood professionals announced Paul Oliver Memorial Hospital's Child Development Center in Frankfort joins a national movement to improve early childhood education...more |
| Manistee County Planner steps down |
| After four dedicated years of service working for Manistee County the County Planner is stepping down to accept a position with the Little River Band of Ottawa Indians. County Planner Frank Beaver said he was pursued for a position with the tribe...more |
| Mason County Board Review Zoning Ordinance |
| The Mason County Board of Commissioners retained Commissioner Robert Genson as the Chairman and Commissioner Thomas Posma as Vice-Chairman during their first regular meeting of the year yesterday. With another well attended meeting, they spent a couple of hours deciding on revisions to the Zoning Ordinance update which goes back to the Zoning Commission to review and revise...more |
| Manistee United Way honors workers |
| United Way of Manistee County 2003 campaign cabinet members, workers and volunteers were honored for their efforts last night. Even with Wednesday's inclement weather close to 40 people came out to the Manistee National Bar and Grill...more |
| Little Manistee River good for trout |
| Due to it's importance as a trout stream the Little Manistee River Watershed is a high priority for the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality. It was announced at the Little Manistee Partnership meeting that a Clean Michigan Inititave application has been submitted for $437,000 for upto 5-road crossing and 3-stream bank projects...more |
| Manistee Council discuss Wastewater Plant |
| At their Work Session Members of the Manistee City Council listened to the options for the Wastewater Treatment Plant expansion project. Jack Rapp with Fishbeck, Thompson, Carr and Huber made some recommendations to the Council such as remove some sections of the project and do it gradually or stepping back on the project from 2-million to 1...more |
| Other business at Manistee Work Session |
| The Feasibility Study on M-55 conducted by Flecss and Vanderwick was discussed at last nights Manistee City Council Work Session. The area is on M-55 3-miles east of US-31 where 173-acres are being considered for possible recreation...more |
| Barge pulls out in Ludington This morning |
| The US Coast Guard Station in Ludington is advising people that the Pere Marquette 41 Barge and Tug will depart this morning. Between the hours of 10am until noon the Tug and Barge will be breaking through the ice on Pere Marquette Lake from Laman Ashphalt dock and head to Lake Michigan...more |
| Man accepts plea agreement in CSC case |
| A Manistee man accepted a plea agreement in connection with criminal sexual conduct charges against children. In 19th Circuit Court on Monday 55-year old James Edward Tennant was facing 4-counts of CSC, three of those counts were dismissed by the Prosecutor including 2-counts of 1st degree and one count of second degree CSC...more |
| Lake Protection law signed by Governor |
| 101ST Representative David Palsrok of Manistee and Senator Jason Allen of Traverse City announced the Governors signing of the Great Lakes Protection Fund. Boaters will now be able to purchase a special watercraft decal to support the Great Lakes Protection Fund designed to provide funding and greater awareness to eradicate aquatic nuisance species in Michigan waters as well as conduct general research on Great Lakes protection issues...more |
| Five probation violations lands man in court |
| A Frankfort man convicted of larceny last year was back in Circuit Court on 5-charges of probation violation. 26-year old Michael Manning of Frankfort is currently on probation for 3-years in connection with taking money from an office at the Onekama EZ-Mart on February 23rd last year...more |
| Manistee Recreation Association awards |
| The annual Charles E. Schoedel awards were presented at the Manistee Recreation Associations Annual meeting...more |
| Final Status for CSC suspect |
| The final status hearing for a 55-year old Manistee Man accused of criminal sexual conduct against children will be held today in 19th Circuit Court. James Tennant was arrested back in mid July last year after approaching children at the 9th Street boat launch and luring them to his home...more |
| Manistee City Council face big issue |
| Manistee City Council members are expected to decide this week on whether or not to let the public vote to spend 10.3 million dollars for the expansion of the Wastewater Treatment Plant...more |
| M-DOT will discuss 5-year plan |
| The Michigan Department of Transportation is inviting the public to today’s follow up discussion of the Transportation Summit and input on their 5-year plan. Senior Executives from MDOT will be at the Traverse City District Library from 2 until 4pm...more |
| Manisree State Police want to curb B & E's |
| In an attempt to curb breaking and enterings in Norman Township State Police from the Manistee Post will step up patrols in that area. Troopers will perform security inspections at local businesses, residences, and cottages to help reduce their vulnerability to thefts...more |
| Manistee Planning Commissioners questioned |
| All members of Manistee City Planning Commission were questioned about their possible relationship with the proposed Northern Lights project last night. During last night’s regular meeting attorney John Gretzinger said if there is a conflict from any member they must refrain from discussion or casting a vote on the Manistee Salt Works Development Corporations proposed Northern Light’s coal powered plant project...more |
| Manistee Man's Final Status coming up |
| A Manistee man will find out if his criminal sexual conduct case against children will go to trial at his final status hearing. 55-year old James Tennant is facing three first and one second degree CRS charges...more |
| Man comes to court under the influence |
| A Manistee man in Circuit Court for sentencing on drunk driving and assaulting a Police Officer comes to Court after a drink. 38-year old Michael Todd Randall of Bear Lake was arrested back in October for second offence drunk driving, outstanding warrants and resisting arrest...more |
| West Shore Blood Drive today |
| With the blood supply remaining at a critical low the West Shore Chapter of the American Red Cross will hold a drive today. The Chapter, a United Way Agency, will be at Memorial Medical Center in Mason County from 10am until 3:45pm...more |
| Mason County murder suspect arraigned |
| The 50-year old suspect accused in the stabbing death of a Scottville man was arraigned in District Court. Peter Paul Mazurek of Mason County is charged with open murder in connection with the stabbing of 27-year old Matthew John in the chest on Tuesday morning...more |
| Disclosuer meeting tonight on Tondu project |
| A discussion and disclosure of any potential conflicts with the Northern Lights project will top the agenda at tonight’s Manistee Planning Commission meeting. Before the disclosure discussion Planning Commission plan to make Committee Appointments and hold their annual By-Law Review...more |
| Scholar Athlete applicants are announced |
| The applicants for the 2003-2004 Scholar Athlete Awards have been announced through the Michigan High School Athletic Association. The program has been honoring 26-individuals, one in each sport since the 1989-90 season...more |
| Northern Michigan Fire Department is awarded |
| The Baldwin Volunteer Fire Department is one of 9-Fire Departments in the state to receive a share of more than 950-thousand dollars. Senators Carl Levin and Debbie Stabenow announced the grants from the U...more |
| Scottville Man Charged in Fatal Stabbing |
| A Scottville man was arraigned this afternoon in connection with the stabbing death of Matthew John yesterday morning. 50 year old Peter Paul Mazurek is charged with "Open Murder" this carries a maximum penalty of life in prison...more |
| Manistee City Council met last night |
| Manistee City Council members authorized phase one ramps for the proposed skate park at last night’s meeting. The $60,000 project, set to begin in the spring, received it’s funding through $25,000 from the Revenue Sharing Board, $25,000 from the General Fund and $10,000 from the Manistee Recreation Association...more |
| Manistee Blacker Airport report |
| The Manager of Manistee Blacker Airport Bill House reported on the renovation projects at the Manistee City Council meeting. House said that he expects the North / South Runway project at the airport to be completed sometime in the summer with the purchase of a piece of property to continue the expansion project...more |
| MECCA is looking for award nominees |
| With their annual meeting coming up in the middle of next month the Manistee Economic Council and Chamber Alliance are looking for nominees for four awards. The awards and last year’s winners were Citizen of the Year Ray Franz, Corporate Citizens of the Year Wendy’s Restaurant, Volunteer of the year Henry and Delia Bergman, and the Community Action Award Mission Manistee...more |
| Officials in the Pentwater School District can breath a sigh of relief after the December 15th election recount comes out in the school’s favor. The count was 381-yes to 363-no for the 1...more |
| Financial Aid workshop tonight |
| West Shore Community College sponsored Financial Aid Workshops for High School Seniors continue tonight. The Director of Financial Aid at WSCC Victoria Oddo said that students along with their parents will learn a wealth of information on how to gain attendance at any college, university, or other post secondary institution...more |
| Convicted killer wants a new trial |
| A former Frankfort man serving a life prison sentence for murder wants the federal court to hear his appeal. According to published reports, convicted murderer 40-year old Brian Lee Slade says that during his trial in Benzie County the issue of self-defense should have been in the minds of jurors when he was tried for the murder of 45-year old Debra Barth at her home in Frankfort...more |
| Sunrise Rotary fundraiser in Manistee |
| The Manistee Sunrise Rotary Club is having their 3rd spaghetti dinner in the past year to help generate funds for student scholarships. Manistee Area Public Schools Superintendent and Sunrise Rotarian Joel Raddatz said that the Sunrise Rotary has collected over 2-thousand dollars in the past two years for community needs...more |
| Vote recount on Pentwater school election |
| Votes will be recounted today concerning the Pentwater School improvement bond election. Village resident Bruce Walborn made the request for the recount through the Oceana County Clerks Office...more |
| Manistee City Council meet tonight |
| Organizers of the proposed Manistee Skate Park will most likely hear good news at tonight’s City Council meeting concerning the go ahead on the project. Council members must authorize the purchase of ramps for phase one of the project through a Clarkston Michigan Company...more |
| Coal plant subject of possible conflict |
| An issue concerning the approval of a Special Use Permit for a proposed coal burning electric plant will highlight this weeks Manistee Planning Commission meeting. A request to address the issue of a ‘conflict of interest’ will be discussed at the Planning Commissions Thursday meeting this week...more |
| Additional signatures for petition |
| More signatures were turned into city hall yesterday to bring the total to 596 collected to put the issue of a building a new waste water treatment plant in the City of Manistee on the ballot. Approximately 400 signatures are required...more |
| ISD invite the public to info meeting |
| The Manistee Intermediate School District’s Parent Advisory Council is sponsoring an information meeting tonight. The public is invited to the meeting where addition information will be discussed on the schools services and assessment of disabilities, disorders, as well as the referral process...more |
| Lake County Escapees caught |
| After a short taste of freedom over the weekend a couple of Lake County medium security prisoners are back behind bars to most likely face additional charges. Just after 9:30pm on Friday two inmates 23-year old Timothy Childers and 19-year old Brady Weaver escaped from the TRV Center in Lake County...more |
| Manistee United Way plans thank you event |
| Officials from the Manistee County United Way fund drive campaign for 2003 will hold a recognition event, underwritten by Morton Salt-a Rohm and Haas Company. At last count the Manistee campaign has raised over $140,000 or around 65% of their 2003 goal of $200,000 although Campaign Chair Sharron Lemmer said many individual campaigns had yet to be counted...more |
| Manistee Commissioners make no changes |
| No changes were necessary as Officials keep things the same during the organizational meeting of the Manistee County Board of Commissioners. Chairperson Shari Wild will again lead the Commissioners as she has since 1995...more |
| Organizational meeting for Manistee Comissioners |
| The Manistee County Board of Commissioners will hold their Organizational meeting this morning in the Board of Commissioners room at the Courthouse. The first order of business will be to appoint a temporary Chairperson before the nominations and subsequent election of that position...more |
| Event is still on for Saturday at the Big M |
| The first of two events sponsored by the Manistee Cross Country Ski Council will take place this weekend. The public is invited to the Big M Cross Country Ski Area on Saturday from 7 until 9pm...more |
| Special Olympic Hockey game coming up |
| Area 24 Special Olympics will be holding another benefit hockey game at the West Shore Community College this month. The funds from the event will benefit the Area 24 program...more |
| Former Manistee Housing Director goes to jail |
By: Chuck Randall
The first day of three years in the Michigan Department of Corrections was spent by the 59-year old former Director of the Manistee Housing Commission yesterday. Jay Wisniewski was given two consecutive three year terms when he was sentenced in Grand Rapids District Court after he was caught tasking money for his own personal use from the Housing Commission...more |
| Sex offenders have 15-days to verify residence |
By: Chuck Randall
The yearly verification period for the state “Sex Offender Registration” began on January 1st. State law requires all registered sex offenders, both felony and misdemeanor –listed offenders are required to report in person to their local law enforcement agency during the annual 15-day verification period...more |
| New Year's Eve Was Safe In Mason County |
By: Alan Neushwander
It was a safe New Years Eve in Mason County thanks in part to the Drive Safe Drive Sober campaign and the free rides offered by the Ludington Mass Transit Authority. A total of 393 people were given free rides and five people had their vehicles towed free of charge by Quinns and Abrahamson’s Towing...more |
| Woman Dies During Fire In Newaygo County |
By: Alan Neushwander
A 49-year-old woman is dead after a fire broke out at her home in Newaygo County. Authorities say Betty Jo Deuling died after her doublewide trailer caught on fire Friday...more |
| Benzie School Sued For Racial Discrimination |
By: Alan Neushwander
The parents of an elementary student in Benzie County have filed a federal racial discrimination lawsuit against the Frankfort-Alberta Area School District. The suit claims the district forced a little girl to use a separate bathroom because she was black and that the other students would feel more comfortable if she used a different bathroom...more |
| Hamlin Lake Dam Will Be Repaired This Spring |
By: Alan Neushwander
Governor Granholm has signed an appropriations bill that provides some much needed funding for the Hamlin Lake Dam. The bill guarantees $500-thousand in matching funds to make improvements to the dam, which had been classified as a high hazard risk by the Environmental Protetion Agency...more |
| Shoe Fetish Suspect In Court Today In Muskegon |
By: Alan Neushwander
A Benzie County man will be in court today for a preliminary hearing on charges that he stole shoes from Mona Shores High School in Muskegon for his own sexual pleasure. 58-year-old Roger Weil was arrested last month by a school security guard...more |
| New Traffic Law Goes Into Effect Today At Foster School |
By: Alan Neushwander
The new drop-off and pick-up procedure for Foster School students in Ludington begins today. Parents will drop off and pick up students only on the Lavinia Street side of the school while buses will operate only on the Emily Street side...more |
| Cold Case Suspect Found Dead In North Carolina |
By: Alan Neushwander
The man suspected of killing a Newaygo County woman six years ago was found dead yesterday in his prison cell in North Carolina. 35-year-old Drew Planten was arrested recently after police gathered evidence which linked him to two cold cases in Ingham County...more |
| Rare January Thunderstorm Moves Through Area |
By: Alan Neushwander
A rare January thrunderstorm moved through Mason County yesterday afternoon. There was frequent lightning and a steady rainfall from about 2pm to 7pm...more |
| Busy day in 85th District Court in Manistee today |
By: Chuck Randall
Several suspects arrested over the holidays are expected to be formally charged with a variety of crimes in 85th District Court this morning in Manistee. Some of the crimes include a Kaleva man arrested on 4-outstanding warrants after he was caught hiding out in a friends garage...more |
| Manistee County Commissioners organizational meeting |
By: Chuck Randall
The Manistee County Board of Commissioners will hold their Organizational meeting this morning. Nominations will be accepted for a 2006 Vice-Chairperson and a vote of Commissioners will take place to elect the Vice-Chair for 2006...more |
| Manistee City Council meet for short agenda |
By: Chuck Randall
The Manistee City Council have a very short agenda to begin the new year at their regular meeting tonight. The only new business includes the possible purchase of property located in the Industrial Park...more |
| New EMS Service Takes Over Thurs. In Mason County |
By: Alan Neushwander
A new ambulance provider will take over in Mason County tomorrow morning. Life EMS is replacing Memorial Medical Center who provided the service for 36 years...more |
| First Baby Born In Mason County In 2006 |
By: Alan Neushwander
The first baby born in Mason County this year happened Monday night at Memorial Medical Center. Kaden Wilson was born at 10:08pm Monday...more |
| Blood Emergency Declared By Red Cross |
By: Alan Neushwander
The Great Lakes Region of the American Red Cross has declared a blood emergency. The region has about a 12-to-24 hour supply of all negative blood types, including O-negative...more |
| Fatal Accident Suspects Waive Arraignment |
By: Alan Neushwander
Both men who were charged in a fatal accident that happened last September have waived their arraignments in Mason County Circuit Court. 61-year-old Richard Benson is charged with operating while intoxicated causing death and 35-year-old Kurt Jankowski is charged with negligent homicide...more |
| Manistee fugitive is charges on 4 warrants |
By: Chuck Randall
A Manistee man attempting to run from 4-outstanding warrants was arraigned in 85th District Court. State Troopers from the Manistee Post arrested 46-year old Jim Jarvis of Kaleva after he was found in a relatives garage on Lyman Road in Onekama the day after Christmas...more |
| Down state man charged for selling crack in Manistee |
By: Chuck Randall
A Detroit man was formally charged in District Court after Police caught him in the Courthouse loaded down with crack cocaine. A State Trooper from the Manistee Post was surprised back on December 21st to find a 38-year old man wanted for selling crack coming into the Courthouse...more |
| Manistee man is arraigned on pot charges |
By: Chuck Randall
A 56-year old Manistee County man arrested recently for possession of marijuana with the intent to deliver will be back in 85th District Court today. Ronald Bordeau was taken into custody after a tip led Manistee State Police and Sheriff’s Deputies to a home on Joy Road in Maple Grove Township where three pounds of marijuana was seized...more |
| McCrainer is retained as Vice-chair on Manistee County Board |
By: Chuck Randall
During a short Organizational meeting for the Manistee County Board of Commissioners things were kept the same. 1st District representative, serving Arcadia, Bear Lake, Pleasanton Township and a portion of Onekama north of 8-mile Road, Janice McCrainer will retain her seat for the next year as Vice Chair for the County Commissioners...more |
| Manistee City Council meet to light agenda |
By: Chuck Randall
Manistee City Council members approved the repurchase of lot 5 in the Industrial Park from David Kellicut at last nights brief meeting. The Council agreed to buy back the lot at the original sale price of 13-thousand 200...more |
| Plea Deal Reached In Oceana County Murder Case |
By: Alan Neushwander
28-year-old Lori Christmann entered a plea deal yesterday in connection with the murder of her grandfather in Oceana County. Christmann pleaded guilty but mentally ill to second degree murder...more |
| First Church In 100 Years Built In Pentwater |
By: Alan Neushwander
For the first time in 105 years, a new church has opened in Pentwater. Lighthouse Lutheran Church opened Christmas Day...more |
| Rep. Palsrok 'Liberal' Republican According To Report |
By: Alan Neushwander
State Representative David Palsrok of Manistee is the most liberal Republican from northern Michigan in the State House. That’s according to the Inside Michigan Politics Newsletter...more |
| New Undersheriff Appointed In Mason County |
By: Alan Neushwander
A new undersheriff has been appointed at the Mason County Sheriff’s Department. Tom Trenner was named undersheriff on Tuesday, replacing Mike Juhasz who was appointed last year on a temporary basis...more |
| Manistee man accused of selling pot has case delayed |
By: Chuck Randall
The case against a 56-year old Manistee man arrested on marijuana charges was postponed in 85th District Court. Ronald Bordeau was arrested on December 17th after State Police Troopers received a tip...more |
| Police arrest Onekama Township resident for drugs |
By: Chuck Randall
Manistee County Sheriff’s Deputies, City Police and the SSCENT Narcotics Team arrested an Onekama Township resident for allegedly selling Oxycontin. The 41-year old resident was taken into custody on Wednesday afternoon and authority’s seized an undisclosed amount of the prescription drug oxycontin...more |
| Manistee U.W. volunteers to be recognized |
By: Chuck Randall
With funds still coming in for the 2005 Manistee County United Way campaign a date is set for this years volunteer recognition. Executive Director Sharron Lemmer said that volunteers and companies who helped with the record breaking campaign are invited to the Manistee National Golf and Resort for Hors d’ oeuvres to celebrate between 5 and 6:30pm on January 18th...more |
| House of Flavors Given Temporary Approval For Trucks |
By: Alan Neushwander
A recommendation was made during the Ludington Planning Commission meeting last night to allow The House of Flavors to temporarily operate truck traffic 24 hours a day. The commission also made a recommendation that the company be allowed to install new equipment at the ice cream manufacturing plant in downtown Ludington...more |
| Life EMS Takes Over In Mason County |
By: Alan Neushwander
Life EMS officially took over ambulance service to Mason County yesterday morning. Operations Manager Kraig Dodge says the first day went rather well...more |
| Pinkerton Retiring From Mason-Lake ISD |
By: Alan Neushwander
Today marks the end of a 37-year career in education for Jim Pinkerton. Pinkerton is retiring as the assistant superintendent of the Mason-Lake ISD...more |
| Rep. Palsrok Headed To Gulf Coast |
By: Alan Neushwander
State Representative David Palsrok will leave for the Gulf Coast this weekend. The Manistee Republican will board a bus with seven other members of the State House Sunday morning enroute to Pass Christian, Mississippi...more |
| Nyman Resigns As MECCA Executive Director |
By: Alan Neushwander
The executive director of the Manistee Economic Council and Chamber Alliance submitted his resignation today. No reason was given as to why Eric Nyman decided to resign...more |
| Charges Possible In Weekend Fire In Scottville |
By: Alan Neushwander
Authorities are investigating a fire that occurred Saturday night at Lakeshore Housing on US-10 near Scottville. Scottville Fire Chief Dale Larr says an older model manufactured home which had been decommissioned and was being prepared to be removed from the property caught on fire at about 7pm Saturday...more |
| Manistee teen gets prison time for T.C. B&E's |
By:Chuck Randall
Following a plea agreement with the Prosecutors in connection with a breaking and entering at a Resort in Traverse City a Manistee teen is headed to prison. 19-year old Kristopher Green accepted reduced charges in mid-December for possession of a stolen credit card and attempted carrying a concealed weapon in exchange for dropping B&E of a vehicle...more |
| CSC suspect from Lansing in Manistee Court today |
By: Chuck Randall
Three unrelated cases we’ve been following appear in 19th Circuit Court in Manistee today for pre-trial conferences. 57-year old Greg Mayes of Lansing is facing 2-counts of 4th degree criminal sexual conduct for allegedly posing as a modeling agent to lure young girls to the Little River Casino...more |
| Today is the deadline for MECCA award nom's |
By: Chuck Randall
Today is the deadline to submit your nominations to the Manistee Economic Council and Chamber Alliance for citizens worthy of one of four quality of life awards. The awards will be presented for Citizen of the Year, Volunteer Award, Corporate Citizen of the Year and Community Action Award as well as a special 5Th Presidents Award given by the MECCA President...more |
| Last month for Envision Manistee Co. Work Groups |
By: Chuck Randall
The final six meetings for January are set to begin tonight for Envision Manistee County. The six volunteer Work Groups have been meeting since last summer working on action plans for the future of Manistee County...more |
| Trial is next for CSC suspect in Manistee |
By: Chuck Randall
Trial is the next step for a Lansing man accused of 2-counts of 4th degree criminal sexual conduct in Manistee. The attorney for 57-year old Greg Mayes, accused of posing as a modeling agent to molest young girls in a hotel room, said that he and his client will be ready for trial...more |
| B&E suspect proceedings adjourned in Manistee |
By: Chuck Randall
A Thompsonville man’s pre-trial conference for breaking and entering was adjourned in 19th Circuit Court in Manistee. 21-year old Shawn Worley is also expected in 85th District Court on Friday in Manistee at 10am to face a larceny charge...more |
| Manistee man expected to accept plea on drug charge |
By: Chuck Randall
Trial will most likely not be an option for a 44-year old Manistee man who is expected to except a plea agreement with the Prosecution. Manistee Prosecutor told Judge James M...more |
| Manistee Habitat for Humanity meets tonight |
By: Chuck Randall
Members of the Manistee County Habitat for Humanity have a meeting set for tonight at the Manistee Chamber of Commerce Office. Habitat’s Dave Yarnell say’s volunteers are optimistic about the next habitat home that they wish will be built this summer but the lack of funds may keep a home from being built until 2007...more |
| Learn more about Leader Dogs for the Blind tonight |
By: Chuck Randall
Members of the Manistee and other Lions Club’s in the County invite the public to come and learn about Leader Dogs for the Blind. Leader dog user Tom Silverthorn said that this get together is designed to give people knowledge on what the dogs do to help people who are visually impaired...more |
| Envision Manistee meets two more times this week |
By: Chuck Randall
Envision Manistee County Work Groups will meet two more times this week before the final three meetings in two weeks. Tonight at the Bethany Lutheran Church in Kaleva and Thursday January 12th at Onekama H...more |
| Benzie woman to be sentenced on drug charges |
By: Chuck Randall
A Benzie County woman is scheduled to be sentenced today on reduced charges in connection with a drug bust at the Bay Valley Inn. 26-year old Jennifer Honeysette accepted a plea agreement and pled guilty to possession of cocaine and a safe B&E in downtown Frankfort...more |
| Officials Looking At Taking Over Coast Guard Station |
By: Alan Neushwander
Officials with the City of Ludington continue to explore their options in purchasing the old Coast Guard Station. Funding is the main issue right now...more |
| Numbers Down 26% At Gift Of Lights |
By: Alan Neushwander
This year’s Gift of Lights saw a 26-percent decline in the number of vehicles which passed through the light display. A total of 3,270 vehicles went through the exhibit at the Mason County Fairgrounds...more |
| Council Holds Off On House of Flavors Request |
By: Alan Neushwander
The Ludington City Council decided to hold off on approving a tax abatement for the House of Flavors during their meeting last night. The company had requested a 50-percent tax abatement on $1...more |
| Manistee Manufacturing Plant Closes Unexpectedly |
By: Alan Neushwander
Employees at Scholle Custom Packaging in Manistee were shocked yesterday when they learned the company had been shut down, leaving 79 people without jobs. Kris Ryan is the Human Resources Director for Scholle Packaging and says the company decided to close its Manistee facility as they are unable to compete with foreign competition...more |
| PM Township Increases Water & Sewer Rates |
By: Roger Martin
As expected, the sewer and water rate increases were approved during last night’s Pere Marquette Township board meeting. Most notable for those increases for township residents was the cost per 100 cubic feet of water which increased from $1...more |
| Teen Births Decrease In Local Counties |
By: Alan Neushwander
Fewer teens are getting arrested, having babies and dropping out of school according to the latest Kids Count report in Michigan. Locally, Mason, Manistee, Oceana, Lake and Benzie Counties follow the statewide trend...more |
| Former Tribal Official Sent To Prison On Fraud Charges |
By: Brett Michaels
The former chief financial officer of the Little River Band of Ottawa Indians
has been sentenced for his part in a fraud scheme that cost the tribe more
than $500,000. 45 year-old Daniel Broton of Hesperia was sentenced
yesterday to three years in a federal prison followed by three years of
supervised release and 300 hours of community service...more |
| Oceana County United Way Has New Office |
By: Alan Neushwander
The United Way of Oceana County has moved into a new building. They’ve moved from New Era to Washington Street in Hart...more |
| Benzie woman is sentenced to jail for B&E |
By: Chuck Randall
A Benzie County woman is sentenced to jail for her part in a breaking and entering. 26-year old Jennifer Honeysette was given 11-months in jail that will be followed by 16-months probation for breaking in to a Frankfort business...more |
| Suspect in Brethren Mini-Mart B&E in court today |
By: Chuck Randall
One of two suspects accused of breaking in to the Brethren Mini-Mart last September is scheduled in 85th District Court in Manistee today. 17-year old Brandon Cunningham is facing a charge of breaking and entering a building with the intent to commit larceny for the incident on September 5th...more |
| Financial Aid Workshop at Mason County Central |
By: Chuck Randall
Two more chances left for parents and students to get all the information they’ll need for financial aid for college. The West Shore Community College Director of Financial Aid Victoria Oddo will conduct a workshop tonight concerning attendance at any college, university or post secondary institution...more |
| Mason County Board Met Wednesday Morning |
By: Alan Neushwander
Tom Posma was reappointed chairman of the Mason County Board of Commissioners and Michael Schneider was reappointed vice chairman during yesterday’s meeting. The board also set the meeting dates for 2006...more |
| Mason County Sheriff's Dept. Receives Traffic Award |
By: Alan Neushwander
The Mason County Sheriff’s Department is being recognized by the Governor’s Traffic Safety Commission for the county’s summer traffic safety patrols. The department will get an award because they were able to lower the number of personal injury accidents in the county by 47-percent from June 1st to September 1st...more |
| January Is School Board Recognition Month |
By: Alan Neushwander
January is School Board Recognition Month, which according to the Michigan Education Association, is a great opportunity to build awareness about the tireless efforts of school boards. During their meeting this week, members of the ManisteeArea Public Schools Board of Education were honored for their service to the district...more |
| Manistee County teen accepts plea agreement |
By: Chuck Randall
Charges against a Manistee County teenager in connection with a couple of breaking and entering crimes are dropped in 85th District Court. 17-year old Brandon Cunningham of Arcadia accepted a joint plea agreement with the Manistee and Benzie County Prosecutors to have all charges dropped against him conditional upon truthful testimony against his co-defendant partner 21-year old Shawn Worley...more |
| Onekama man charged with oxycontin possession |
By: Chuck Randall
An Onekama Township man arrested for allegedly selling prescription drugs was formally charged in 85th District Court in Manistee. 41-year old Steve Hamilton, arrested on January 4th by Manistee Sheriff’s Deputies, City Police and the SSCENT Narcotics Team, was charged on with delivery of the prescription drug Oxycontin on Wednesday...more |
| WSCC announce a feasibility study |
By: Chuck Randall
The Foundation Board of Directors at West Shore Community College announced that they have hired a group to perform a feasibility study. Director of Development Mark Bergstrom said that the Clements Group of Salt Lake City, Utah was picked from three others for the study...more |
| CSC suspect in Manistee Court today |
By: Chuck Randall
A charge of 4th degree criminal sexual conduct is facing a Manistee County in 85th District Court today. 52-year old Gary Verheek is accused of improperly touching a young girl who was spending the night at his home with a family member on June 1st last year...more |
| B&E suspect in District Court in Manistee |
By: Chuck Randall
A 21-year old Thompsonville man accused of a couple of breaking and entering crimes in Manistee and Benzie County is scheduled for 85th District Court today. Shawn Worley is accused of trying to break in to the Brethren Mini-Mart and the Lone Pine Party Store in Honor with 17-year old Brandon Cunningham...more |
| Manistee County Road Commissioners meet |
By: Chuck Randall
Manistee County Road Commissioners named new Officers at their recent regular meeting. Silvester Flairity was named Board Chairman and Vice Chair Gerry Ware...more |
| CEO Of Memorial Medical Center Resigns |
By: Alan Neushwander
The President and CEO of Memorial Medical Center has resigned from his position. The announcement was made during a press conference this morning...more |
| Student Success Seminar at WSCC today |
By: Chuck Randall
The Woman’s Resource Center at West Shore Community College is hosting a “Student Success Seminar” today. The free workshop is designed to familiarize students with campus resources and get them in to the back to school mode...more |
| Benzie man must 1st face criminal charges |
By: Chuck Randall
Probation violation proceedings against a Thompsonville man will have to wait until criminal charges are resolved. Shawn Worley was in 85th District Court Friday facing a probation violation for a previous larceny under $200...more |
| Tests first for CSC suspect in Manistee |
By: Chuck Randall
The preliminary hearing was adjourned for a 52-year old Manistee man accused of criminal sexual conduct against an under age girl. The lawyer for Gary Verheek was granted an up to 60-day adjournment in order that his client under go a sex offender evaluation in Traverse City...more |
| Deadline Approaching For School Board Candidates |
By: Alan Neushwander
The filing deadline for people interested in running for their local school board is about three weeks away. Petitions must be turned in to the county clerk’s office by 4pm on February 7th...more |
| Hankwitz Named Assistant Coach At Wisconsin |
By: Alan Neushwander
Scottville native Mike Hankwitz has accepted a coaching job at the University of Wisconsin. Hankwitz will serve as the defense coordinator for the Badgers’ football team...more |
| Heating Assistance Available As Rates Rise |
By: Alan Neushwander
Residents are seeing dramatic increases in their heat bills this winter and there are services available for people who may need help in paying those bills. The Northwest Michigan Rural Service Partnership has heating funds available for low income residents of Mason, Lake, Manistee, Oceana, and Newaygo Counties...more |
| MECCA will begin the search for new EDO Director |
By: Chuck Randall
The search is on again at the Manistee Economic Council and Chamber Alliance for an Economic Development Director. The Chamber Executive Director Dave Yarnell say’s they are holding things together at MECCA making sure things don’t fall through the cracks...more |
| Michigan gets high marks for biking trails |
By: Chuck Randall
Following a report of trail systems in the nation Michigan rated as one of the best according to the International Mountain Biking Association. Michigan earned a B+ along with 12 other states that include Arizona and Colorado for trails open to riding...more |
| Freezing Rain Closes Schools; Causes Accidents |
By: Alan Neushwander
Mason-Oceana 911 Dispatch urges motorists to use caution if going out this morning. Roadways are completely covered with ice from the freezing rain...more |
| Woman Sent To Prison For Robbing Gas Station |
By: Alan Neushwander
A woman who robbed an Oceana County gas station will spend two-to-five years in prison. 23-year-old Ashley Christie of Holt was issued the sentencing on charges of attempted robbery and felony firearm...more |
| West Shore Community College Met Monday |
By: Roger Martin
A light agenda at yesterday’s West Shore Community College board of trustees meeting allowed time for an interesting set of presentations by the chairs of eight specific college team committees. Through their perspective, they outlined how each could help the college reach it’s goal of student success and establishing West Shore Community College as a great learning institution...more |
| Ludington Schools Discuss Restructuring Plan |
By: Bill Denson
Ludington Schools Superintendent Cal DeKuiper is meeting with groups of parents to discuss the restructuring plan set for implementation in the Fall of 2008. Last night, he told the school board that the number one question by parents is “Why the district is building additional classrooms while closing others?” He says the answer to that question is “that our rooms are just in the wrong place...more |
| Manistee man adds probation charge to pot bust |
By: Chuck Randall
A Manistee man arrested for possession of marijuana with the intent to deliver, is also charged with probation violation. 56-year old Ronald Bordeau is facing up to 8-years in prison for the pot charge and possibly additional time on 4-counts of probation violation, 2-on the drug charges and 2-more for not reporting to the Probation Department that he moved to Kaleva...more |
| Raising funds for sports facility going well at MHS |
By: Chuck Randall
A fundraising project for a planned Community Activity Complex is going well according to one of the coordinators. Manistee High School Coach and teacher Paul Marfia said he wasn’t sure that this first phase would do so well with about 150 bricks purchased adding up to over $20,000...more |
| Manistee City Council meets tonight |
By: Chuck Randall
Manistee City Council members will be faced with another light agenda when they meet for their regular meeting tonight. The Council is expected to review and take action to adopt a Resolution of Guidelines for Poverty Exemption from Property Tax for 2006...more |
| Manistee County Commissioners met |
By: Chuck Randall
Manistee County Board of Commissioners approved the amended extension for the operation contract for Manistee County Transportation. Federal funding was increased by 2 and a quarter percent which required an additional approval to allow Dial-A-Ride to perform public transportation in the County...more |
| State Making Boundary Changes In Local Counties |
By: Alan Neushwander
The Michigan Natural Resources Commission recently reviewed recommendations and boundary changes to state land in 10 counties, including Mason and Oceana, as a part of the ongoing process to consolidate the state’s land holdings to maximize public recreational opportunities and more effectively manage state-owned land. In Mason County, 20 parcels totaling 123 acres will be retained, while Nineteen parcels totaling 36...more |
| Manistee City Council meet to a light agenda |
By: Chuck Randall
Poverty Exemption Guidelines from 2006 property tax were approved at last night Manistee City Council meeting. City Assessor Julie Beardsley said that the resolution is for assessed and taxable values and added that residents exempt from property taxation has been limited in the past couple years 9-in 2003, 15-in 2004 and 17 this past year...more |
| Award given to Manistee man abused in jail camp |
By: Chuck Randall
A 28-year old Manistee man who claimed he was abused by authorities at a prison camp he was sentenced to is awarded a huge settlement from the state. In July of 1999 28-year old Craig Cook was given a sentence of 2 to 4-years in connection with a marijuana conviction in Manistee, he was accepted in to the alternative to prison 90-day program at Cassidy Lake Boot Camp...more |
| Trial may be next for Manistee Dr. accused of CSC |
By: Chuck Randall
If no additional motion are filed concerning the criminal sexual conduct case against a 67-year old Manistee Doctor, preparations for trial will begin. Dr...more |
| Road Commission employees want better offer |
By: Chuck Randall
The fact finder will be put to work through the Manistee County Road Commission due to a contract rejection from the 36-employees. At their last regular meeting last week Manager Gerry Peterson said that recommendations will be acted on at the next meeting except employees didn’t wait that long to take a vote to turn down the latest offer...more |
| Newaygo Woman Sentenced For Beating Grandson |
By: Alan Neushwander
A Newaygo County woman will spend up to 15 years behind bars for beating her grandson. 55-year-old Betty Fabrizio was sentenced Tuesday after pleading guilty to first-degree child abuse...more |
| Manistee United Way honors volunteers |
By: Chuck Randall
A good crowd turned out for the United Way of Manistee County’s 2005 Campaign Celebration last night at the Manistee National Golf and Resort. It was announced that $186,400 or 98% of the $190,000 goal has been raised to date...more |
| Lake County Man Killed In Snowmobile Accident |
By: Alan Neushwander
Police say alcohol was likely a factor in a fatal snowmobile accident that happened last night in Lake County. 41-year-old Paul Johnson of Chase died after his sled hit a tree at about 11:30pm on 18 Mile Road near the Lake and Newaygo County border...more |
| Manistee Energy Fair group meets tonight |
By: Chuck Randall
The group organizing the Manistee County Energy Fair for this summer will meet again today. Manistee County Commissioner Alan O’Shea said that the up coming Energy Fair is not just for businesses it’s designed for families, for individuals who are building new houses...more |
| Hockey game to benefit special olympics at WSCC |
By: Chuck Randall
Once again the Area 24 Special Olympic athletes of Manistee, Mason and Lake Counties will benefit from this weekends Charity Ice Hockey game. In the past up to $2,000 has been raised with 100-percent of the proceeds going to the athletes...more |
| Police Bust Drunk Drivers During Enforcement Effort |
By: Alan Neushwander
Police in Mason County arrested 25 motorists for drunk driving and other alcohol-related offenses during the recent “You Drink & Drive, You Lose” crackdown from December 19th to January 1st. In addition, 133 people were issued citations or arrested for other offenses during the same time period in Mason County...more |
| Ludington Chamber Announces Leaders of the Year |
By: Alan Neushwander
Dan Sleeman of National City Bank has been chosen as this year’s Business Leader of the Year by the Ludington Area Chamber of Commerce. Sleeman was chosen due in part to his involvement with the YMCA and the new Mason County Growth Alliance...more |
| Manistee City Officer arrested for domestic violence |
By: Chuck Randall
State Police from the Manistee Post arrested a City Police sergeant in connection with a domestic violence incident. Troopers were dispatched to a residence at around 4am Thursday morning where the officer was taken in to custody for an incident involving the officer’s girl friend...more |
| Wave Study conducted on Manistee Harbor |
By: Chuck Randall
A wave study conducted by the Corps of Army Engineers has been completed to determine the effects of waves inside the Manistee Harbor. Community Development Director Jon Rose said one of the solutions to the erosion problems concerned dock extension at First Street Beach but that may not completely solve the problem...more |
| Envision Manistee County Meets This Week |
By: Chuck Randall
Envision Manistee County will wrap up their Work Group meeting this week on action plans for the future of the County. Natural Environment and Recreation will meet at Brethren High School tonight, Government and Infrastructure on Tuesday at the Manistee County Road Commission Conference Room and then the last meeting for the Envisioning process will be on Janusry 26th with the Youth and Education Group in the Media Center at Bear Lake H...more |
| Parenting Seminar Wednesday At WSCC |
By: Chuck Randall
A parenting seminar is the next subject in the series of free Workshops sponsored by the Women's Resource Center at West Shore Community College. Riverton Elementary School K-4th grade teacher and the Director of the Victory Early Childhood Center Angela Hood will lead an effective parenting seminar that Resource Center Executive Director Carla Shay says is informative with child care available...more |
| Court Date Set For Manistee Police Officer |
By: Alan Neushwander
More details are being released about a Manistee Police officer who was arrested last week for domestic violence. Authorities say Sergeant Matthew Thompson was arrested after an incident involving his girlfriend at his home last Thursday...more |
| Onekama Marine Voted As A Top Dealer |
By: Alan Neushwander
A Manistee County business recently received high honors. Onekama Marine was voted as one of the top 100 dealers by Boating Industry Magazine...more |
| Manistee Tribe Attempting To Remove Its Leader |
By; Alan Neushwander
The Little River Band of Ottawa Indians is once again trying to remove Ogema Lee Sprague. For the second time in less than a year, the tribal council will vote to remove Sprague from power...more |
| Evart Police Chief Suspended; Investigation Launched |
By: Alan Neushwander
Evart police chief Kirt Vink has been placed on paid administrative leave pending the outcome of an internal investigation. The Osceola County Sheriff’s Department is assisting with the investigation...more |
| City Still At Odds Over Purchase Of Coast Guard Station |
By: Alan Neushwander
There’s still no decision regarding the future of the old Coast Guard station in Ludington. The city would like to purchase the building, however questions regarding the cost and overall funding are keeping the city from making any final decisions...more |
| Scottville Approves 425 Agreement With Amber Twp. |
By: Roger Martin
A formal 425 agreement with Amber Township was approved at last night’s Scottville City Commission meeting. The land agreement involves the property owned by Jeff Barnett and Dr...more |
| Ludington Approves House of Flavors Tax Break |
By: Alan Neushwander
The Ludington City Council approved a six year tax abatement for the House of Flavors during their meeting last night. The request for the tax break was tabled at their last meeting until May, pending a decision by the planning commission regarding 24-hour truck traffic at the House of Flavors...more |
| Newaygo Man Sentenced For Trying To Kill Girlfriend |
By: Alan Neushwander
A Newaygo County man was sentenced yesterday for attempting to kill his ex-girfriend. 33-year-old Carlos Medina received a 12-year sentence in prison for attempted murder...more |
| Jeff Mount Hired As Superintendent For MCC |
By: Alan Neushwander
The Mason County Central School Board hired Jeff Mount as the district’s new superintendent. Mount is currently serving as the principal at MCC Middle School...more |
| Manistee man pleads to probation charge after bust |
By: Chuck Randall
A 56-year old Manistee County man pleaded guilty to a couple of probation violation charges in connection with a drug bust at his 19th Circuit Court arraignment. Ronald Bordeau who was facing four probation violation charges accepted two guilty pleas one on the drug charge and the other for not reporting a change of address...more |
| Sentencing for B&E suspect adjourned in Benzie |
By: Chuck Randall
Proceedings were adjourned in 19th Circuit Court in Benzie County in connection with a breaking and entering case. 21-year old Shawn Worley was expected to be sentenced for a break-in at the Lone Pine Party Store on Tuesday...more |
| Great Radio Auction Begins Today |
| The 10th annual Great Radio Auction is just a couple of hours away. It begins at 9am and runs until 3pm today, tomorrow and Saturday...more |
| Ludington Men Charged For Breaking Into Apartment |
By: Alan Neushwander
Two Ludington men who were arrested last week for home invasion have been formally charged in Mason County District Court. 23-year-old Alfredo Vigil, Jr...more |
| Local Lawmakers Criticize Governor's Speech |
By: Alan Neushwander
Republican leaders in the house and senate are criticizing the governor for downplaying the big issues facing that state during last night’s State of the State address. State Representative David Palsrok of Manistee says Granholm was weak in the details...more |
| Oceana County Couple Arrested For Break-In |
By: Alan Neushwander
Two people were arrested in Oceana County after breaking into a home in Otto Township. Authorities arrested a 15-year-old girl from Whitehall and a 20-year-old man from Rothbury...more |
| Manistee Tribe Explains Charges Against Ogema |
By: Alan Neushwander
The Little River Band of Ottawa Indians released documents this week that explain the charges against Ogema Lee Sprague. The tribal council is accusing Sprague of financial mismanagement causing thousands of dollars in losses...more |
| Outdoor Wood Stoves A Hot Topic Among Local Cities |
By: Alan Neushwander
Several local cities are trying to decide what they should do about outdoor wood burning stoves. More and more people are using the wood burning stoves to help cut high heating bills...more |
| Last meeting for Envision Manistee tonight |
By: Chuck Randall
Tonight will be the last meeting for the Envision Manistee County Work Groups. Following the Youth and Education meeting in the Bear Lake High School Media Center on Cody Street volunteers will begin the task of putting together the visions and action plans to guide county decisions concerning the six Work Groups...more |
| Former Lions Quarterback in Cadillac today |
By: Chuck Randall
A Former Detroit Lion Quarterback will be in Wexford County today speaking to both student and parents about depression and teen suicide. Eric Hipple will be at Cadillac High School talking to the students in the daytime and parents at 7pm tonight...more |
| Hospice benefit event and side walk sale at Ramada |
By: Chuck Randall
The second annual benefit Chili Cook Off will be taking place this Saturday with all proceeds going to the Hospice of Michigan serving Manistee, Mason, Benzie, Lake Oceana Counties. Volunteer Service Manager and Community liaison Jean Taylor is hoping for a larger turnout...more |
| Death Of 5-Month-Old Baby Ruled A Homicide |
By: Alan Neushwander
Police in Oceana County are investigation the murder of a five-month-old baby. Shelby Police Chief Bob Wilson says Sebastian Gonzalez died at home on December 12th...more |
| Mason County Jail May Rent Beds To Detroit Prisoners |
By: Alan Neushwander
The Mason County Jail may soon be home to dozens of inmates from the Detroit area. Sheriff Laude Hartrum says his department is in negotiations with Wayne County to rent 30 beds at the Mason County Jail...more |
| Ludington Company Making Strides In Water Conservation |
By: Alan Neushwander
One local company is making strides in water conservation and hopes that other companies will follow. Metalworks in Ludington had been using 24-million gallons of water each year to prepare metal filing cabinets for painting...more |
| Senator Levin at regional office in T.C. Saturday |
By: Chuck Randall
Senator Carl Levin will be up north making a stop at one of his 7-Michigan Offices this weekend. Senator Levin, who has been behind such issues recently as funds to help fight the Emerald Ash Borer, urging the USDA to purchase tart cherries-15-million pounds of them and Michigan projects for the Transportation and HUD Appropriations bill, will be at his regional office in his Traverse City office at 107 Cass Street, Suite E for an Open House on Saturday from noon until 1pm...more |
| UPDATE: Chemical Spill Update At House of Flavors |
By: Alan Neushwander
Sat., 3:45pm
Officials say it will likely be tomorrow morning at the earliest before residents are allowed back in their homes following an ammonia leak at the House of Flavors in Ludington...more |
| Chemical Spill At House of Flavors Causes Evacuation |
By: Alan Neushwander
Dozens of home had to be evacuated near the House of Flavors in downtown Ludington this weekend following an ammonia leak at the ice cream manufacturing plant. Ludington Police Chief Mark Barnett says crews immediately began cleanup operations after the leak was reported at about 10pm Friday...more |
| Manistee County Settles Wrongfull Death Lawsuit |
By: Alan Neushwander
Manistee County will pay one (m) million dollars to settle a lawsuit filed over the drowning of a man in the Manistee River. A federal jury in April ordered the county to pay 600-thousand dollars to the estate of Eugene Beck...more |
| Mudslide Closes Part Of Highbridge Road in Manistee |
By: Alan Neushwander
A mudslide closed part of Highbridge Road in Manistee yesterday morning. State Police say the rain had caused the road embankment to collapse causing a large mudslide to cover the east side of the roadway just south of River Road at about 9:20am...more |
| Chase Suspect Arraigned On A Dozen Charges |
By: Alan Neushwander
An Oceana County man was arraigned Friday in Mason County District Court on a dozen charges stemming from a chase on Christmas Eve that led police through two counties. 26-year-old Larry Berghuis of Hart was arrested after he stole a car in Oceana County, then drove to Mason County where he stole a couple more vehicles, broke into a house and starting ramming patrol cars causing one officer to crash into a ditch...more |
| Manistee woman to be sentenced for shooting husband |
By: Chuck Randall
Following a plea of no contest at her last appearance a Manistee woman is expected to hear if the deal between the Prosecution and Defense will stand. 46-year old Catherine Danders, accused of shooting and wounding her husband Joel at the couples Norman Township home, agreed to the plea agreement on December 12th in 19th Circuit Court where a charge of assault with intent to commit murder was dropped for a lesser charge of assault with intent to commit great bodily harm less that murder a 10-year felony she also accepted another charge of felony firearm a two year consecutive term...more |
| Men busted for tire dumping in Lake County |
By: Chuck Randall
Two Montcalm County man were arrested following a dumpling complaint in Lake County. Lake County Sheriff’s Office say’s 64 and 25-year old males were caught dumping about 89-scrap tires at around 6:30am on Friday morning...more |
| Local Unemplyment numbers also up |
By: Chuck Randall
As recently announced unemployment continued to edge upward in the month of December in most of the 17-major labor markets in Michigan. Local number also continued on an upward swing as in Manistee County where unemployment went from 7...more |
| Local student chosen as MHSAA finalists for award |
By: Chuck Randall
The Finalists were announced for the Scholar-Athlete for 2005-06 school year through the Michigan High School Athletic Association (MHSAA). Of the 120-finalists one student athlete was from Benzie County...more |
| Oceana County Man Sentenced For 2005 Murder |
By: Alan Neushwander
An Oceana County man was ordered to serve one year in jail for his involvement in the shooting death of his girlfriend’s grandfather last February. 22-year-old Adam Eschman was also given five years probation during his sentencing yesterday...more |
| Manistee woman gets break in shooting sentencing |
By: Chuck Randall
A Manistee County woman accused of the non-fatal shooting of her husband is given a break at her sentencing in 19th Circuit Court. 46-year old Catherine Danders attorney said that his client was distraught after learning that her husband 52-year old Joel had been having an affair at their Norman Township home and shot him in the head in retaliation on July 16th last year...more |
| Tribe wants to remove Little River Band Ogama |
By: Chuck Randall
The Tribal Council of the Little River Band of Ottawa Indians is expected to again decide the fate of Ogama Lee Sprage this week. The Council is accusing Sprague of Gross Misconduct and Malfeasance specifically related to recent audit activity...more |
| B&E suspect to be sentenced in Benzie today |
By: Chuck Randall
Following an adjournment at his last appearance a Benzie County 21-year old is expected to be sentenced for breaking and entering. 19TH Circuit Court Judge James M...more |
| Manistee Art Institute meets for their annual meeting |
By: Chuck Randall
The Manistee Art Institute held their annual meeting at the Tuskin Grill in Downtown Manistee last night. Following an over view of 2005 exhibits and their successes from MAI President Eileen Postma Exhibits for 2006 were announced including a juried art exhibit on April 21st, A June 30th through July 9th show titled “Is This Really Art”, and during the Sleighbell Parade and Old Christmas weekend an exhibit titled “It’s All Relative” Very Important Volunteers in Art recognition went to Carol Fox and Jim Palowski...more |
| Tip leads police to drunk driver in Manistee |
| A citizen tip lands a Manistee County man in jail for drunk driving and possession of marijuana. A Kaleva resident flagged down a State Trooper from the Manistee post late last week who observed the suspect driving a red Ford Explorer and when he attempted to pull him over the man quickly parked his vehicle and fled into a store where he was arrested for a third offence drunk driving...more |
| Knife assault suspect waits arraignment |
| A Northern Michigan man who threatened three men with a knife is expected to be formally charged in 85th District Court. The unidentified 39-year old Thompsonville man, who has been in the Manistee County jail since before the New Year holiday weekend, came over to his estranged wife’s home in the early morning hours of December 28th and pulled out a knife and threatened to kill three Bear Lake men, who were helping the women thaw out some frozen pipes...more |
| State Police in Manistee end special patrol |
| The Michigan State Police in Manistee say that following the end of the year numbers, the patrol project in Norman Township will come to an end. Troopers said they tried to several ideas to bring down the number of breaking and entering crimes at the vacant cottages in that area of Manistee County with the help of local police, the community and news agencies...more |
| Manistee non-profits eligible for arts funding |
| Manistee County non-profit organizations planning arts and cultural projects this summer will want to attend a grant writing workshop. The Traverse Area Arts Council is the is the granting agency for region 10 that includes Manistee, Benzie, Leelanau, Wexford and other Northern Michigan Counties...more |
| Gift Of Lights Ends At Mason County Fairgrounds |
| The Gift of Lights ended Sunday night after being on display at the Mason County Fairgrounds since November 21st. West Michigan Fairboard President Doug Robidoux says about 45-hundred cars passed through the display...more |
| Drive Safe, Drive Sober A Success In Mason County |
| Law enforcement officials say the annual Drive Safe, Drive Sober program in Mason County was a success. Ludington Police Chief Mark Barnett says the Ludington Mass Transit Authority gave 296 free rides on New Years Eve to people who had too much to drink...more |
| New Officials Take Over In Mason County |
| Mason County had several new officials take office January 1st. The county has a new sheriff, prosecutor, register of deeds and three new county commissioners...more |
| Voting Records Of Local Lawmakers In Lansing |
| Local lawmakers did rather well as far as voting records are concerned during the 2004 legislative session in Lansing. State Representative David Palsrok of Manistee missed just five votes last year...more |
| Thompsonville man charged with assault |
| A 39-year old Thompsonville man was arraigned in 85th District Court in Manistee on a charge of felony assault with a dangerous weapon. Richard Joseph Guay was given a video arraignment from the Manistee County jail where he has been lodged since the incident on December 28th...more |
| Manistee woman gets new pre-lim for pot charges |
| A 21-year old Manistee woman who was jailed for being late to her District Court preliminary hearing on drug charges is out of jail awaiting her next date. 21-year old Sara Marie Hennigan was held in contempt of court and cited for failure to appear on December 28th when she missed her scheduled appearance before Judge Brent Danielson and he jailed her for five days...more |
| Manistee Commissioners take oath |
| Manistee County Board of Commissioners officially took the oath of Office at their annual organizational meeting. New Commissioners were sworn in including, First District Janice McCraner, third District Glenn Lottie, fifth District Ed Haik and 6th District Kathy Fenstermacher...more |
| Mason County Commissioners Take Oath Of Office |
| Mason County Clerk Jim Riffle administered the oath of office to all of the commissioners during last night’s organizational meeting. Newly elected commissioners Neil Russell, Jeff Laplante and Ron Pederson were officially sworn in for the first time...more |
| Scottville Sewer Project Update |
| Scottville City Commissioners received an update on their sewer project during last night’s meeting. City Manager Amy Hansen said a letter has been sent to the Mason County Department of Public Works questioning them on how the South Main Street lateral replacement was missed as part of the sewer project...more |
| Main sewer maintenence in Manistee |
| It’s been a few years since maintenance has been preformed on the main sewer line in downtown Manistee, and it about time to begin the process again. Maintenance trucks began cleaning out the main sewer line from Lake Michigan to the Wastewater Treatment Plant on Monday morning...more |
| Flu shot clinic in Manistee |
| Following the announcement of the end to the shortage of flu vaccine several flu shot clinics are spring up in Northern Michigan including Manistee. District Health Department #10’s Arlee Sutton announced a walk in flu shot clinic on Wednesday January 12th at the VFW Hall on 28th Street in Manistee from 10:30am until 12:30pm and again from 1:30 until 3pm...more |
| Lawyers in Benzie argue for testimony in murder case |
| Lawyers from the Attorney Generals Office are expected to be in 85th District Court in Benzie County today to appeal a decision in a murder case. Judge Brent Danielson ruled in December that testimony from an Oakland County Medical Examiner, who said 37-year old Florence Unger was drowned, could not be used in the open murder case against her husband 43-year old Mark who is accused of her death in October of 2003 at a Benzie County resort...more |
| Over 16-Hundred Kids Benefit From Toys For Tots |
| The final numbers are in for the annual FiveCAP Toys for Tots / Gifts for Teens toy drive. Officials say a total of 1,628 children in Mason and Manistee Counties received toys through the program...more |
| Drunk Driver Off To Prison For Killing Village President |
| An Oceana County man responsible for an accident that killed the president of Kent County’s Village of Caledonia will spend time in prison for causing the accident. 23-year-old Simon Herrera-Lucio of Hart was sentenced Tuesday to 4 ½ to 15 years in prison on charges of driving while impaired causing death...more |
| Manistee City Council elect new Council women |
| Members of the Manistee City Council appointed Cindy Fuller 4-2 over Ilona Haden to fill the second District seat left vacant by departing Kathy Fenstermacher. City Clerk Michelle Wright swore Fuller in at last night's meeting to serve until November this year...more |
| Whats next with Regional Economic Development |
| Oceana County recently dropped out of the plan for a Regional Economic Development Corporation due to increased cost to their community. Manistee City Manager Mitch Deisch said the plan is still being explored by the remaining Counties with the City and County Commissioners making the final decision on the Regional plan or staying with the Chambers of Commerce...more |
| MECCA continue search for new Director |
| The search is continuing to fill the position of Economic Development Director for the Manistee Economic Council and Chamber Alliance. Chamber President Judy Ouvery said that applications are coming in with the application deadline on January14th...more |
| Financial Aid workshop at Mason Co Cent H.S. |
| Mason County Central High School is the site of tonight’s Financial Aid Workshop that includes students and parents from Mason County Eastern High School. West Shore Community College Financial Aid Office will conduct the workshop...more |
| Blood Drive in Manistee today |
| The West Shore Chapter of the American Red Cross is holding a blood drive in Manistee today at the St. Joe Civic Club...more |
| Snow Blankets The Area Thursday Morning |
| Snowplows were out early Thursday morning clearing the roadways after several of inches of snow fell. Mason County Road Commission Director Gary Dittmer reminds motorists to stear clear of snowplows as they can kick up small rocks and ice that can damage automobiles...more |
| Hoekstra Running In Walt Disney World Marathon |
| Nearly 50 people from West Michigan will participate in the annual Walt Disney World Marathon this weekend. Among those participating is Congressman Pete Hoekstra...more |
| First Annual Battle Of The Bands Coming To WSCC |
| West Shore Community College is preparing for their 1st annual Battle of the Bands. Area teenagers will be performing various types of music throughout the night...more |
| YMCA Holding Open House This Weekend |
| Today is the first day to register for events at the new West Shore Family YMCA. Meanwhile, an open house is being held Sunday at the YMCA...more |
| Blood Drive Today In Ludington |
| A blood drive is being held today at the Ludington City Hall. Today’s drive runs from noon – 5:45pm...more |
| Benzie Hit and Run case trial coming up |
| Another Court date for a final status hearing for a Benzie County woman accused of hit and run is scheduled in 19th Circuit Court. 49-year old Vicki Mix will decide if trial is the best way to go inconnection with a personal injury accident that mix is accused of...more |
| Safe holiday period in Manistee |
| With another holiday season in the books the City of Manistee was a safe place to be according to the City Police. Sergeant Steve Schmailing said the Police were not busy in fact there were no drunk driving arrests in the City although there were a total of six arrests County wide for intoxicated drivers...more |
| Number grow for Manistee United Way |
| As funds continue to come into the Manistee County United Way reaching their goal of 180-thousand dollars could become a reality. Executive Director of the Manistee United Way Sharron Lemmer said there has been some year end surprises bringing their current total to $171,100 or 95 % of the goal and $8,700 more than last years total...more |
| Planning Commission meets in Manistee |
| A full agenda is on tap for tonight’s Manistee City Planning Commission meeting, the first of the new year. Two public hearings include a Zoning Amendment for Michael Gorbach and Connie Fenner has requested a Special Use Permit both items will come up later in the meeting...more |
| Winter Storm Dumps Nearly A Foot Of Snow On Area |
| Local residents continue to clean up following the first winter storm of 2005. Thursday’s storm dumped nearly a foot of snow on the area...more |
| Bear Lake Woman Injured In Snowmobile Accident |
| The Manistee County Sheriff’s Department says alcohol was a factor in a snowmobile accident that injured a woman from Bear Lake. Police say the accident happened on Erdman Road just north of Mill Street in Onekama Township just after midnight yesterday...more |
| Local School Hit By Vandals |
| Troopers from the Manistee Post of the Michigan State Police are looking for the person responsible for vandalizing a local school. Authorities say someone tore up the lawn of Brethren High School with a pickup truck last Sunday...more |
| Police Investigate Theft From Local Farm |
| A 22-year-old Kaleva man is in the Manistee County Jail for stealing several 30 foot sections of aluminum irrigation pipe from a farm on Highbridge Road in Maple Grove Township. Police say the man allegedly took the stolen pipe to a salvage yard in the Ludington area and sold it for $156...more |
| Snowshoe Walk This Weekend At State Park |
| The snow we got yesterday will make for excellent conditions during the season’s first winter snowshoe walk at the Ludington State Park this weekend. The 1 ½ hour guided walks will be held on Saturdays beginning tommorow through February 19th...more |
| Hoekstra Announces New Medicare Benefits |
| Congressman Pete Hoekstra is encouraging local senior citizens who are eligible for Medicare to take advantage of new preventive care that became available this week. The new benefits include allowing anyone who enrolled in Medicare Part B after January 1st to receive a physical exam and screenings for cholesterol and diabetes...more |
| Salvation Army Store Opens Saturday In Ludington |
| The new Salvation Army store will open this weekend in Ludington. The grand opening will be Saturday at 10am...more |
| Oceana County Commissioners Met Thursday |
| Newly elected commissioner Jim Brown from Oceana County's 6th district in Hart took his seat Thursday as Oceana's Board of Commissioners had their first meeting of 2005. The Commissioners re-elected Larry Van Sickly as Chairman, corrected and clarified their rules and procedures and set their 2005 meeting dates...more |
| Judges ruling stands in murder case |
| The Prosecution is denied their appeal for witness testimony in connection with a Benzie County open murder case. 19th Circuit Court Judge James M...more |
| Improvements at Manistee Airport continuing |
| Manistee Blacker Airports Bill House was at the recent City Council meeting reporting on the activities at the facility. House said that traffic is up 50% at Blacker the last couple of years thanks to their carrier Midwest Airlines due to the schedule and low fairs...more |
| New Manistee County Commissioner is honored |
| Several changes have been made to Manistee County Government to start the new year one of which is a new Chairperson for the Board of Manistee County Commissioners. Alan O’Shea was elected at the organizational meeting by a unanimous vote...more |
| Special Olympics Winter Games coming up |
| Athletes from Area 24 Special Olympics that includes Manistee, Mason and Lake Counties are preparing for the upcoming Winter Games. The Winter Games will be held at the Grand Traverse Resort on February first through the fourth...more |
| Red Cross To Spend $400-Million On Tsunami Relief |
| The American Red Cross says it will cost over $400-million to provide emergency relief to the victims of the Tsunami. They ask that donations be made to help assist with the relief plan...more |
| Hoekstra Completes Walt Disney World Marathon |
| Congressman Pete Hoekstra took part in the Walt Disney World Marathon this weekend in Orlando, Florida. Hoekstra completed the 13-mile half-marathon on Sunday in an effort to raise money for the disease, A-T...more |
| Local Library Receives Arbor Day Grant |
| 50 Michigan communities and schools have been awarded Arbor Day grants from the DNR’s Urban and Community Forestry Program. There was only one local community who qualified for a grant...more |
| Forestry Grants Awarded To Conservation Districts |
| Two local communities are receiving grants for forestry outreach and education projects. The Manistee County Conservation District is receiving 24-hundred-dollars from the DNR, while the Benzie County Conservation District is receiving $5-thousand...more |
| Manistee Skier Ranked 74th In the Nation |
| A local skier has been named one of the top 100 junior racers in the United States. 17-year-old Lyndee Janowiak of Manistee is ranked 74th by Ski Racing magazine...more |
| Chase Farms Receiving $364-Thousand Grant |
| Governor Granholm has announced that Oceana County will receive a $364-thousand grant to support an $8.2-million expansion of the frozen food processor Chase Farms, Inc...more |
| Manistee robbery suspect in court today |
| A Manistee man accused of robbing a check cashing store at gunpoint will be in 19th Circuit Court today for a pre-trial. 45-year old Steve Huston was arrested at his home following the robbery at the Check and Cash store on Parkdale Avenue last October 25th...more |
| Arraignment in Manistee for pot growing suspect |
| One of the suspects arrested in Manistee on several charges in connection with a marijuana growing operation will be arraigned in 19th Circuit Court today. 29-year old Eric Alexander Hathaway was bound over to the Circuit Court level in late December...more |
| Buckley gets prison this time |
| It will be quite sometime for the next modeling gig for a Northern Michigan woman who was handed down jail time on drug charges. 25-year old Crystal Mikula of Buckley in Wexford County was sentenced to 23-months to 20-years in prison for attempting to sell oxycodone pills to an undercover Officer on October 20th...more |
| Manistee Revenue Board meet tonight |
| Two new members of the Manistee Local Revenue Sharing Board are expected to be in attendance at tonight’s meeting. The current Board consists of Chairperson Dennis Bjorkquist, Vice Chair William Shales and Secretary Dave McNeilly...more |
| Manistee armed robbery suspect pleads |
| Armed robbery suspect takes a plea agreement at his pre-trial in 19th Circuit Court in Manistee. The prosecution agreed to drop a count of felony firearm if 45-year old Steve Huston pleaded guilty to armed robbery...more |
| Robbery suspect gets a break at sentencing |
| A Wellston teen was given a break at his sentencing on charges of breaking and entering. Donny Leroy Harris attorney made a motion to allow the matter to be adjourned so the defendant can be admitted to the Beaver Island Education program...more |
| Manistee man pleads not guilty in pot case |
| A Wellston teen was given a break at his sentencing on charges of breaking and entering. Donny Leroy Harris attorney made a motion to allow the matter to be adjourned so the defendant can be admitted to the Beaver Island Education program...more |
| New members on Revenue Board in Manistee |
| There were three candidates looking to fill the third most eligible unit of government seat on the Manistee Revenue Sharing Board. Chairman Dennis Bjorkquist and Alan O’Shea representing the Manistee County Board of Commissioners listened to the candidates, Road Commission Manager Jerry Peterson, Business Manager at Manistee Area Public Schools Howard Vass and Mitch Deisch spoke on behalf of the City of Manistee Representative Colleen Kenny who was later elected to the Board...more |
| Final status for hit and run case in Benzie |
| A Benzie County woman will be in 19th Circuit Court today for her final status concerning a hit and run accident. 49-year old Vicki Mix is accused of striking a woman with her car and then leaving the scene...more |
| Ludington Condo Project Still Pending |
| The developers of the proposed Ludington Harbor Terrace project say they are still negotiating with various banks and investors to see if they can finance the project. Last month, the developers said they weren’t sure if they would go ahead with plans to turn the former Atkinson Building on South Rath Avenue into a series of loft style condominiums and retail space...more |
| Irons resident injured in a car snowmobile crash |
| A 20-year old Lake County resident is injured after colliding with a vehicle with a snowmobile. Around 4:20pm on Monday afternoon Lake County EMS, Sheriff’s Department and Irons Fire Department responded to the accident at Brooks Road and 11 and a half mile in Elk Township in north eastern Lake County...more |
| Van Woerkom Holding Office Hours In Ludington |
| State Senator Gerald Van Woerkom will be holding office hours today at the Ludington City Hall. Van Woerkom’s staff will be meeting with constituents from 11:30am to 1:30pm...more |
| Gift Of Lights Presents Check To Red Cross |
| The Western Michigan Fair Board presented the American Red Cross with a check for over $4-thousand last night. The money was raised during the first annual Gift of Lights at the fairgrounds...more |
| Ludington City Council Met Monday Night |
| As required by the city charter, the Ludington City Council last night reappointed several officials. City Manager John Shay, civil attorney’s Gavigan, Anderson and Andrews and criminal attorney Jack Bulger were all reppointed to serve the city in 2005...more |
| Salvation Army Assisting With Heat Bills |
| The Salvation Army is accepting applications from low income households who need assistance paying their heating bills. To apply for assistance in Mason or Oceana Counties, call the Ludington Salvation Army at 843-3711...more |
| Local Gas Prices Exceed State Average |
| You'll have to dig a little deeper for a fill up at the gas pump in Michigan this week. According to Triple-A, the current statewide average for a gallon of selfe-serve regular unleaded is $1...more |
| Another delay in a hit and run trial in Benzie |
| After several delays concerning a hit and run accident in Benzie County the 19th Circuit Court called another adjournment. Yesterday’s pre-trial for 49-year old Vicki Mix was put on hold again...more |
| Flu Clinic cancelled in Manistee |
| Due to the weather conditions in northern Michigan the District Health Department #10 decided to cancell their clinic. A new date for the clinic has not been set...more |
| Financial Aid Workshop at Ludington H.S. |
| Tonight will be the final Financial Aid Workshop sponsored by West Shore Community College. Students and parents are invited to Ludington High School tonight to learn information concerning attendance at any college or university...more |
| Hoekstra visits Frankfort H.S. in Benzie |
| Second Congressional District Congressman Pete Hoekstra took a trip to a northern Michigan High School on Tuesday to bring the students upto date on current events. Hoekstra was at Frankfort High School talking to the juniors and seniors about the war in Iraq as well as issues in Michigan...more |
| Great Radio Auction Coming In February |
| Lake Michigan Broadcasting is preparing for the 9th annual Great Radio Auction. Being held February 17, 18 and 19, the auction gives listeners the opportunity to bid on merchandise and services provided by area businesses...more |
| Dittmer Discusses Jebavy Drive Speed Limit |
| Gary Dittmer of the Mason County Road Commission covered several issues concerning the proposed speed increase on Jebavy Drive during last night’s Pere Marquette Township Board meeting. According to Dittmer, a recent change in the law now requires a unanimous vote of the townships in the areas concerned...more |
| 2005 Ludington Road Construction Projects |
| Ludington city officials have announced a couple of road projects that are expected to get underway in 2005. Officials say North Gaylord Avenue between Court Street and Haight Street will be reconstructed...more |
| Anti-Casino Group Questions Gambling Compacts |
| A Michigan anti-casino group has resurfaced. The group called, the Taxpayers of Michigan Against Casinos, is asking the Michigan Court of Appeals to decide whether the governor has the constitutional authority to amend gambling compacts without legislative approval...more |
| Sewer Discussion Tops Hart City Council Meeting |
| The Hart City Council last night authorized the submission of a matching fund grant request to the Michigan Economic Development Corporation for the East Main Lift Station. Officials say the corroded, obsolete 44-year-old lift station is at maximum capacity...more |
| Playground Arsonist Gets Nine Months In Jail |
| An Oceana County man accused of setting fire to the Pirates Paradise Playground in Hart has been given his sentence. 23-year-old Jack Kittle of Rothbury was sentenced to nine months in jail for his role in the June 8th fire that completely destroyed the $100-thousand playground...more |
| Scottville Murder Suspect Enters Guilty Plea |
| A Scottville man accused of a fatal stabbing last year has pleaded guilty to second degree murder. 51-year-old Peter Mazurek pleaded guilty, but mentally ill, earlier this week...more |
| Hamlin Lake Dam Is In Need Of Repairs |
| Officials say the Hamlin Lake Dam is in need of repairs. A study shows that the 92-year-old structure is deteriorating due to natural weathering processes...more |
| Tribal Fisherman Denies Wrongdoing |
| The Little River Band of Ottawa Indian’s Natural Resource Commission heard testimony yesterday from both sides during a hearing for a tribal fisherman accused of illegally harvesting about 4-thousand pounds of fish from Lake Michigan last fall. Tommy Battice of Custer is a member of the tribe...more |
| Mason County Board Met Wednesday |
| The Mason County Board of Commissioners yesterday approved a request to hire two additional correctional officers at the county jail. In a memo to the board, Sheriff Laude Hartrum said the new officers will solve the jail staffing issue...more |
| WSCC student to perform at Loncoln Center |
| A student from West Shore Community College is invited to perform at New York’s Lincoln Center. Bassoonist from the WSCC Concert Band Nicole Roberts will be representing the College as a member of the 2005 College Band Director’s National Association Small College Intercollegiate Band...more |
| Manistee bridge project to resume on the 18th |
| The Department of Transportation has confirmed January 18th as the starting date to resume work on their bridge project on US-31. Construction Engineer Del Kirby said that this part of the project will be painting all the structural steel on the bridge and getting all the corrosion from the last 15-years knocked off, electrical rehabilitation as well as re-balancing the structure...more |
| Flu Clinic in Manistee re-scheduled |
| The flu Clinic that was cancelled in Manistee due to weather conditions on Wednesday is rescheduled. The new date is January 21st from 10:30am until 12:30pm and again from 1:30 until 3pm...more |
| Brethren H.S. vandalism suspects arrested |
| Two residents are arrested and charged with the vandalism at Brethren High School. State Police from the Manistee Post took two suspects into custody this week, 20-year old Charles Carver of Kaleva and a 15-year old juvenile from Brethren...more |
| Jebavy Drive Speed Limit Will Remain The Same |
| The speed limit on Jebavy Drive will not be increasing. The Hamlin Township Board of Trustees yesterday voted not to increase the speed limit from 45 miles per hour to 55 miles per hour from Riverside Drive to Decker...more |
| Police Investigate Possible Murder In Oceana County |
| The Oceana County Sheriff’s Department is looking for a missing man who may have been murdered. Police say 44-year-old Fernando Najera disappeared from the trailer he was staying at in Colfax Township...more |
| Free Soil And Walkerville Schools Fail To Meet AYP |
| Eight of every 10 Michigan school districts are making adequate progress toward improving students' academic skills. The state on Thursday for the first time released districtwide progress reports required by the federal No Child Left Behind Act...more |
| First Relay For Life Meeting Being Held Monday |
| The kickoff for this year’s Relay for Life of Mason County is being held Monday. The first meeting is being held Monday at 7pm at Memorial Medical Center...more |
| Pentwater Women Assisting Tsunami Victims In Asia |
| Three members of the Pentwater Baptist Church are leaving today for a trip to Asia to assist victims of the tsunami. As part of the mission trip Deb Lake, Carla Wilson and Hope Birdsley will bring disaster relief to victims in India...more |
| Lake Michigan Broadcasting Names Lynn Baerwolf CEO |
| Lake Michigan Broadcasting has announced that Lynn Baerwolf has been named President and CEO by its board of directors. Lynn is the widow of former Lake Michigan Broadcasting President and co-founder Roger Baerwolf, who unexpectedly died in December...more |
| Chase Farms Tops Oceana Commissioners Discussion |
| Oceana County Commissioners have set a date for a public hearing on a proposed Community Development Block Grant application. If approved, the state grant would help fund road improvements for the Chase Farms 2005 infrastructure project...more |
| Assault suspect in Manistee District Court |
| A Thompsonville man accused of threatening three Bear Lake Men with a knife will be back in 85th District Court today for his preliminary hearing in Manistee. 39-year old Richard Joseph Guay was charged with felony assault with a dangerous weapon following the incident at his estranged wife's home where he threatened to kill the three men, who were helping the woman with frozen pipes at her home...more |
| Today in the deadline for MECCA awards |
| Today is the deadline to make nominations for the annual awards presented by the Manistee Economic Council and Chamber Alliance. The awards for Citizen of the Year, Corporate Citizen of the Year, Volunteer of the Year and Community Action Award will be presented at the February 25th Annual Dinner at the Little River Casino Resort in the Three Fires Conference Center...more |
| A series of new laws designed to have a major positive impact on affordable housing in Michigan was signed by Governor Granholm. The four bill package is based on the recommendations of the Land UseLeadership Council and benefits the Michigan State Housing Development Authority’s (MSHDA's) homebuyer and home improvement programs...more |
| Fire Station in Wexford County gets grant |
| A Wexford County Fire Department is awarded a Homeland Security Grant. Congressman Pete Hoekstra announced 180-thousand dollars to the Cedar Creek Township Fire Department who have been operating without a fire truck since July last year when both of their vehicles were taken out of service due to engine and brake problems...more |
| Sex offenders fail to register in Manistee |
| Warrants are being sought for registered sex offenders in Manistee and areas of Benzie County who failed to verify their addresses. According to the State Police at the Manistee Post all registered sex offenders are required to verify their current addresses within the first 15-days on January and quarterly after that...more |
| Manistee assault suspect faces other charges |
| A Thompsonville man facing a felony charge of assault with a dangerous weapon is arraigned on another past charge instead. There was a bench warrant out on 39-year old Richard Joseph Guay when he was arrested on the assault charge...more |
| Manistee man finds more trouble |
| A Manistee man, given a huge break in connection with an incident where a vehicle was stolen and torched, could find himself behind bars. 21-year old Tachcha Milk was served a bench warrant recently for failing to appear in 85th District Court on a charge of drunk and disorderly...more |
| MSU Extension program in Manistee |
| The Manistee County MSU Extension and the Employment Services Agency are inviting agriculture-related agencies to their information program. The Manistee MSU Extensions Elaine Bush say’s the February 10th event begins at 9am and runs until 4pm with topics such as migrant labor issues, groundwater, Farm-A-Syst, and the Michigan Agriculture Environmental Assurance Program...more |
| Couple Killed By Carbon Manoxide In Oceana County |
| State Police are investigating the accidental death of two young adults that took place in Oceana County. Police say a 19-year-old woman from Warren along with a 24-year-old man, also from Warren, were visiting friends in Oceana County’s Otto Township on Saturday...more |
| Ludington Man Attending Presidential Inauguration |
| A Ludington resident will be among the thousands in attendance during the inauguration ceremonies this week for President Bush. Fred Slimmen will be on hand Thursday in the nation’s capital when Bush takes the oath of office...more |
| Former Gibbs' Restaurant Demolished |
| A local landmark is no longer standing in Mason County. Demolition was completed late last week on the old Gibbs’ Restaurant on US-10 in Amber Township...more |
| Relay For Life Meeting Tonight In Ludington |
| Relay for Life of Mason County is officially kicking off the annual event tonight with a team meeting at Memorial Medical Center. Tonight’s meeting gets underway at 7pm at the hospital...more |
| Lake County home destroyed by fire |
| A house fire in Lake County on Sunday may have been caused by a space heater. Firefighters responded to the scene at about 1:30 Sunday afternoon in Chase Township...more |
| Hamlin Township Hotel Damaged During Fire |
| A fire at a local hotel last night caused extensive damage to the building’s roof. The blaze occurred at about 8:30 last night at the Lakewood Hotel on Lakeshore Drive in Hamlin Township...more |
| Two Weekend Accidents Leave Four People Injured |
| Two people suffered minor injuries during an accident Sunday in Pere Marquette Township. The Mason County Sheriff’s Department says 58-year-old Jan Barbre of Scottville lost control of her vehicle after breaking to avoid a vehicle infront of her on US-10 infront of Wal-Mart shortly after noon Sunday...more |
| US-31 bridge closed in Manistee for two months |
| Beginning today at mid morning and for the next two months the US-31 bridge will again be closed to traffic. Detours will remain the same as the first part of the Michigan Department of Transportation maintenance project to extend the life of the structure...more |
| Sewers, LMTA Increases Top Scottville Meeting |
| During last night’s Scottville City Commission meeting, officials invited a representative from the Ludington Mass Transit Authority to their February meeting to help explain the reasoning behind the recent increases. Scottville currently pays a higher millage than Ludington for the transportation services...more |
| Ludington Man Gets Five Months For Drug Charges |
| A 30-year-old Ludington man was sentenced to five months in jail and ordered to pay fines in connection with drug charges. The charges stem from an incident in August when Karlan Young was stopped at the Mason / Oceana County line...more |
| Carr Communications Chosen As Business Of The Year |
| Carr Communications has been chosen as Scottville’s 2004 Business of the Year. Carr Communications has had an office in downtown Scottville for ten years where they sell internet, cellular phone and dish network satellite services...more |
| Manistee woman gets new pre-lim for pot charges |
| A Manistee woman who had missed her last preliminary hearing on drug charges will get another chance today in District Court. 21-year old Sara Marie Hennigan showed up at the wrong time for her last appearance and was jailed for contempt of court by Judge Brent Danielson...more |
| Former Supervisor in Court for pot |
| The former Supervisor of Stronach Township will be back in court today in connection with charges of growing marijuana and obstructing justice. 60-year Robert Sell was arrested in the evening hours of October 6th at his home after State Police from the Manistee Post discovered marijuana in pots on Sell’s property back on September 21st while they were investigating another matter...more |
| Copemish man to be recharged in Manistee |
| A 44-year old Copemish man is expected to be recharged in 85th District Court in Manistee today on a drug related offence. Charles Graham was arrested on September 10th last year on a charge of controlled substance second offence and delivery and manufacturing marijuana...more |
| Former Stronach Supervisor pleads in Manistee |
| Two charges were dropped in a plea agreement for the former Stronach Township Supervisor in 85th District Court. 60-year old Robert Sell pleaded no contest to a charge of use of marijuana on Tuesday...more |
| Manistee woman bound over to circuit on pot charge |
| A 21-year old suspect accused in connection with a marijuana selling and manufacturing operation waived her preliminary hearing in District Court. Sara Marie Hennigan was bound over to Circuit Court to face four charges...more |
| Copemish man given a break in District Court |
| A Copemish man was given a huge break in 85th District Court pleading to one count of possession of marijuana. Manistee County Prosecutor Ford Stone said that 44-year old Charles David Graham was facing charges of controlled substance second offence and delivery and manufacturing marijuana before he accepted the plea bargain...more |
| Manistee Commissioners discuss case |
| Manistee County Board of Commissioners discussed the upcoming trial of Beck vs Manistee County at their meeting. The Board along with County Prosecutor Ford Stone went into a closed session concerning the case where Eugene Beck drowned in the Manistee River in late June of 1995...more |
| Manistee City Council met Tuesday |
| Members of the Manistee City Council postponed their vote on the resolutions to the Municipal Employees Retirement System of Michigan (MERS). Two members of the Council were not in attendence Hank Yonkman and Alan Marshall so a decision on MERS is moved to the February 1st meeting...more |
| Snow Storm Hits Area; Schools Closed; Roads Unsafe |
| Roads are snowcovered and slippery following the snowstorm combined with the blowing and drifting snow. Motorists are advised to stay off the roads today...more |
| Riverside Park In Scottville Getting Improvements |
| Scottville’s Riverside Park will be getting some improvements. The park will be getting 100 new and safer double-ring fire pits for the park’s spring opening...more |
| Palsrok Attending Presidential Inauguration |
| State Representative David Palsrok is on his way to Washington, DC to attend Thursday’s presidential inauguration. The Manistee Republican is making his first trip to see a presidential inauguration...more |
| Gas Prices Jump Across The State |
| Gas prices took a major jump across the state this week. According to Triple-A Michigan, the current statewide average is $1...more |
| Lowe's Site Plan Reviewed By County Planners |
| Last night, the Mason County Zoning Commissioners reviewed Lowe’s site plan for their proposed U.S...more |
| Weather Related Accidents Keep Police Busy |
| The Mason County Sheriff’s Department responded to numerous weather-related accidents yesterday. At 8:45 Tuesday morning, 35-year-old Joseph Metzler of Grand Haven lost control of his vehicle on US-31 near Meisenhiemer Road and hit several trees...more |
| Local Residents Attending Inauguration Today |
| When President Bush takes the oath of office today, a Mason County resident will be on hand in the nation’s capital to watch the festivities first hand. Fred Slimmen of Ludington was the chairman of the Mason County committee to re-elect Bush...more |
| Senate Introduces Home Heating Assistance Bills |
| Legislation sponsored by State Senator Gerald Van Woerkom would help the state provide assistance to low-income residents to help offset the cost of heating their homes. Van Woerkom, who represents Mason and Oceana Counties, says the bills would create the Michigan Home Heating Credit Fund and implement an income tax return check-off for donations...more |
| Former Ludington Bowling Alley Purchased |
| Downtown Ludington will have a new look in a couple of years. The building that houses the former bowling alley, the Subway restaurant and Acker’s Just Fishin’ has been purchased by developer Bob Neal...more |
| Newaygo County Murder Case To Be Retried |
| A Newaygo County man convicted of second-degree murder will get a new trial. A federal judge in Grand Rapids agreed to retry 52-year-old Larry Souter after new evidence was discovered...more |
| Manistee Transportation hangin' in |
| Following this past election in November Manistee County’s Dial-A-Ride bus service has taken a huge hit financially. Manistee County Transportation’s Dick Strevey say’s that State funding is currently half of what it was four years ago and because of that the employee staff has been cut from 35 to 21...more |
| Snowy Weather Causes Several Traffic Crashes |
| The snowstorm that dumped about ten inches of snow on Mason County caused numerous accidents yesterday. Fortunately there were no injuries reported in any of the accident...more |
| Crooks Try Breaking Into Salvation Army Store |
| The Mason County Sheriff’s Department is investigating an attempted break in that occurred at the new Salvation Army Store in Ludington. The attempted break in was reported shortly after 11am Wednesday...more |
| Do Not Enter sign seems to be working in Manistee |
| Officers from the Manistee City Police Department are again keeping a watch on an area of the City with a no left turn sign during this phase of the US-31 bridge project. Detective sergeant John Reily said so far there have been no tickets issued for an illegal turn at that spot although verbal warnings have been issued...more |
| Moonlight ski event this weekend |
| Moonlight Cross Country skiing will be back in Northern Michigan this weekend with an event sponsored by the Manistee Cross Country Ski Council and the U.S...more |
| Investigators say Scottville fire was an arson |
| Michigan State Police fire investigators from the Hart Post say a blaze that burned down a Scottville home over the weekend was intentionally set. Investigators from the arson unit say the Saturday night fire began after a fire was started in a garbage can in the kitchen of the home on the corner of Scottville and Marrison Roads...more |
| President Bush Takes Oath Of Office |
| Thursday afternoon, crowds of spectators gathered along Pennsylvania Avenue for President Bush's second inaugural parade. Earlier in the day, Bush officially began his second term in office on the steps of the Capitol, with a pledge to bring liberty and freedom "to the darkest corners of the world...more |
| Local number for recent drunk driving crackdown |
| Following the Michigan Office of Highway Safety Planning announcement of nearly 19-hundred drivers arrested during the “You Drink, You Drive, You Lose crackdown comes some local numbers. The Manistee State police stopped 538-drivers, made 10 arrests for drunk driving with a total of 14 alcohol related arrests and during the campaign 272 total tickets and arrests were made...more |
| Hart Express Mart Robbed At Gunpoint |
| Police in Oceana County continue to look into Wednesday’s armed robbery of the Express Mart on Polk Road in Hart. The Sheriff’s Department says a man wearing a mask pulled out a gun and demanded that cashier hand over the money that was in the cash register...more |
| Attempted Robbery At Salvation Army Store |
| The Mason County Sheriff’s Department continues to investigate an attempted break in that occurred at the new Salvation Army Store in Ludington. The attempted break in was reported shortly after 11am Wednesday...more |
| Fair Board Signs Five Year Deal With Gift Of Lights |
| The Western Michigan Fair Board met with Winterland, Incorporated yesterday to discuss the future of the Gift of Lights. Following the discussion, the Board agreed to a five-year contract with a three year renewable clause...more |
| Big Game Awards Night Coming In February |
| The Fin and Feather Club of Mason County is preparing for their annual Big Game Awards Night. Being held next month, the event will recognize hunters who took a prized animal last year...more |
| Blood Drive Today In Ludington |
| The West Shore Chapter of the American Red Cross is holding a blood drive today at Memorial Medical Center in Ludington. Officials say donor turnout is crucial at today’s drive...more |
| Final count from Toy's for Tot's program |
| Final numbers were released from the Five Cap Offices in Manistee and Mason Counties for this past years WKLA/WMTE Toys for Tots / Gifts for Teens program for low income families. Between the two Counties $14,717 in cash was collected and $70,337 in toy value for a grand total of $85,054-dollars...more |
| Local numbers for drunk driving campaign |
| Following the Michigan Office of Highway Safety Planning announcement of nearly 19-hundred drivers arrested during the “You Drink, You Drive, You Lose crackdown comes some local numbers. The Manistee State police stopped 538-drivers, made 10 arrests for drunk driving with a total of 14 alcohol related arrests and during the campaign 272 total tickets and arrests were made...more |
| Manistee Road Comishion building coming along |
| Contractors ask for a 30-day extension for the completion of the new Manistee County Road Commission building on us-31 and Nine Mile Road. Road Commission manager Jerry Peterson say’s the contractor wanted the extension to make sure that they get the project completed correctly, they still may meet the targeted completion date in the spring...more |
| Federal Disaster Loans available |
| Local Eye Doctor Arrested For Growing Marijuana |
| A local eye doctor is facing charges for allegedly growing marijuana at his home. 45-year-old Dwight Wood was arrested Friday by the SSCENT narcotics team after police found nine marijuana plants at his home on Seminole Drive in Ludington...more |
| Ludington Businessman Becomes U.S. Citizen |
| Congressman Pete Hoekstra will deliver the keynote address at a naturalization ceremony today in which 440 people will become American citizens. Among those becoming citizens today include Ludington resident Ting Hsueh...more |
| Jousting Coming To Renaissance Faire In Ludington |
| A special attraction will be coming to this year’s West Michigan Renaissance Faire. The Ludington Area Jaycees have announced that the faire will feature live jousting...more |
| Anti-Abortion Group Marches Through Ludington |
| President Bush is set to give anti-abortion marchers a boost today in what he calls a "noble cause." Opponents of the Supreme Court's Roe v...more |
| Lake Michigan Water Levels Are Rising |
| The Great Lakes are up to 16 inches deeper than they were last winter and are projected to continue raising the spirits of boaters this summer. According to federal data released Friday, Lake Michigan could reach or exceed it’s long-term average this summer for the first time in seven years...more |
| Couple take plea agreement for animal cruelty |
| The Court date for a Custer couple was moved up a couple of days concerning their involvement in animal cruelty charges due to a plea bargain. Both 62-year old Alvin and 63-year old Jennell Henry pleaded no contest on Friday to eight counts per person of failure to provide the animals with adequate care, they were facing 40-counts each...more |
| Ludington man busted for pot |
| A 45-year old Ludington man is expected to arraigned this week following a drug bust by the SSCENT Narcotics team. The unidentified man was arrested on Friday after the Narcotics team and the Ludington Police Department used a warrant to search the mans residence...more |
| Flint man loses snowmobile in Manistee River |
| A 30-Year old Flint Michigan man learns the hard way that even with all the recent cold weather riding a snowmobile across the Manistee River is not a good idea. Around 5pm on Friday the unidentified man made the decision to cross the Manistee River insted of using the designated snowmobile bridge at High Bridge Road in Norman Township...more |
| Ludington Hopes To Buy Coast Guard Station In 2005 |
| There’s been a set back in the City of Ludington’s efforts to purchase the old Coast Guard building. The state Department of Environmental Quality has lost documents associated with some underground storage tanks at the site...more |
| Traffic Enforcement Zones Set Up In Mason County |
| The Mason County Sheriff’s Department is again setting up traffic enforcement zones throughout the county. Today, deputies will be watching Jebavy Drive from US 10 to Barnhart Road...more |
| Ludington City Council Hears Annual Reports |
| The Ludington City Council was presented with several annual reports during their meeting last night. Public safety was the focus of two of the reports...more |
| West Shore Community College has approved a 15 year, 5 month agreement with Mason-Lake ISD for the construction of a new auto repair / maintenance building to be located on the college’s campus. The board yesterday also approved retaining the design firm of Tower, Pinkster, Titus of Grand Rapids and Muskegon Construction Company for the actual construction...more |
| Ludington man charged with growing pot |
| Formal charges were given to a Mason County eye doctor accused on marijuana charges. 45-year old Dwight Wood, arrested following a search of his home by the SSCENT Narcotics Team who found nine marijuana plants in his residence on Seminole Drive in Ludington...more |
| Man found guilty of tribal fishing violations |
| The Little River Band of Ottawa Indians in Manistee and the Natural Resource Commission has made a decision concerning a fisherman who is accused of fishing after the spawning closure. On November 6th Tommy Battice was charged while fishing in Lake Michigan near Ludington...more |
| Manistee Coast Guard has tips concerning ice |
| Even with many days of cold temperatures it still may not be safe on open ice in Manistee County. Late last week a snowmobiler fell through the ice on Manistee River, do not try to cross iced over streams...more |
| Tribal Fisherman Will Appeal Court's Ruling |
| The attorney for a tribal fisherman accused of taking fish after the season ended says she plans to appeal the ruling against her client. Attorney Angela Sherigan represents Tommy Battice of Custer...more |
| Walk For Warmth Being Held Next Month |
|
The 12th annual “Walk for Warmth” is coming up in just a couple of weeks. The two-mile walk will be held on Saturday, February 19th at 10am in both Mason and Manistee Counties...more |
| Local Lawmakers Receive Committee Assignments |
| The Speaker of the House has announced committee assignments for lawmakers during the 2005-2006 legislative session. State Representative David Palsrok of Manistee says he will be chairing an expanded committee this year...more |
| Hoekstra Wants More Road Funding In West Michigan |
| Congressman Pete Hoekstra is calling on the Michigan Department of Transportation to balance maintenance with construction needs in West Michigan. Hoekstra drafted a letter to MDOT Director Gloria Jeff asking that she modify the Five Year Plan...more |
| Ludington Condo Project Will Proceed |
| There’s some good news for a proposed condominium project in Ludington. The Michigan Economic Development Corporation has agreed to remove several contingencies that were part of a $400-thousand Single Business Tax Credit...more |
| State Cuts Funding For Ludington Breakwater Project |
| The proposed breakwater at the Loomis Street Boat Launch in Ludington has been put on the back burner. Last year, the city hired a consultant to determine the source of sedimentation at the boat launch, which has required the city to dredge the area on an annual basis...more |
| Over 14-Thousand People Visit Ludington Website |
| The City of Ludington’s website has been a huge hit and officials say it’s saving the city time and money. In 2004, the website had over 14-thousand hits...more |
| Hart City Council Discusses Senior Housing Project |
| Last night, the Hart City Council again considered an ordinance that would allow Payment in Lieu of Taxes for the Lake Pointe Senior Apartment Project. The proposed ordinance is site specific and would set the minimum PILOT payment for Lake Pointe at $5,952 a year...more |
| Thompsonville man in court for assault |
| A 39-year old Thompsonville man is expected to be arraigned on assault charges in Manistee today in connection with an incident that occurred in late December. Richard Joseph Guay, at his last 85th District Court appearance, was arraigned on a bench warrant for driving under the influence of alcohol he’s facing charges of misdemeanor probation violation...more |
| Manistee mans accident causing death back to district |
| A Manistee man accused in a driving while intoxicated causing death incident has his case remanded back to the District Court level. 45-year old George Michael Stapleton was scheduled to go to trial this week in connection with the accident that occurred last April 29th in Brown Township where Stapleton’s vehicle left the roadway traveled some 100-feet off Leckrone Road into a tree killing 30-year old Deana Wartella...more |
| Manistee County Planner interviews next |
| Interviews have been scheduled for candidates looking to fill the open position of County Planner in Manistee. At a recent County Personnel and Executive Committee from the Planning Commission meeting 18 resumes’ were gone through an eight interviews were scheduled during the week of January 31st...more |
| Engler Doing His Part To Reduce Lawsuits |
| A former Michigan governor is at the forefront of a new initiative hoping to convince individual states to control skyrocketing legal costs. The National Association of Manufacturers, headed by former Governor John Engler, is launching the "American Justice Partnership" today with a variety of state chambers and civil justice reform committees...more |
| Gorcyca May Run For U.S. Senate |
| The man who gained national notoriety as the prosecutor in the recent "Basket-brawl" at the Palace of Auburn Hills, as well as the case against Jack Kevorkian is considering a run for the Republican Party's US Senate nomination. Oakland County's David Gorcyca worked the Michigan GOP delegation last week at the inauguration of President Bush to test the waters for his first possible bid for statewide office...more |
| Levin Opposes Rice's Confirmation As Sec. Of State |
| Michigan's senior US Senator Carl Levin lined up behind other Senate Democrats who began voicing their opposition to Condoleezza Rice's confirmation as Secretary of State. One by one, US Senate Democrats are taking to the floor to condemn the Bush Administration's handling of the war in Iraq, and Rice's involvement in hyping the need for the war...more |
| Bible Ad Will Appear In Rolling Stone Magazine |
| It appears Rolling Stone magazine will run that Bible ad after all. The half-page ad for the new Bible will appear in the February 24th edition of Rolling Stone which hits the newstands February 11th...more |
| Bush Supporters Losing Confidence In Iraq War |
| Some of President Bush's staunchest supporters are losing confidence in the future of Iraq. 53-percent of Americans polled by the Associated Press in mid-January say they think it's unlikely that a stable, democratic Iraq will emerge from the fighting...more |
| County Music Singer Arrested For Shoplifting |
| Grammy-award winning singer Lynne Anderson has been arrested for allegedly stealing a Harry Potter DVD from a New Mexico supermarket. She's also accused of punching the police officer who arrested her...more |
| Assault suspect takes plea in Manistee |
| A Northern Michigan man facing three assault charges against three Bear Lake men gets a break in a plea bargain in 85th District Court in Manistee. 39-year old Richard Joseph Guay accepted a plea agreement from the prosecution to have all three assault and battery charges dismissed in exchange for a no contest plea to probation violation...more |
| Sentencing set for man found guilty of murder |
| The Court date is set for sentencing a 36-year old Manistee County man found guilty of killing his step father. Oliver Scott Willet is facing a life prison term after he was found guilty on December 21st last year of the shooting death of 68-year old Charles Louis LaMire...more |
| Benzie Hit and Run case keeps moving |
| The final status that will determine whether or not the hit and run case of a Benzie County woman is again moved. 49-year old Vicki Mix was scheduled in 19th Circuit Court in early February for her final status but that date is moved to April 12th at 11am with a possible three day trial to begin on the 13th...more |
| Local Students Nominated To Military Academy |
| Several local students have been nominated by Congressman Pete Hoekstra to be chosen for acceptance into the 2009 class of the US Military, Navy and Air Force academies. They include Jameson Lamie of Hart who will attend the West Point Military Academy in New York; Kari Poort of Sheby who will attend the US Naval Academy in Maryland and Michael Greene and Jordan Kowalkowski of Manistee who have each been nominated to attend the US Air Force Academy in Colorado...more |
| Western Michigan Fair Website Wins Award |
| The Western Michigan Fair Board says their website has become a valuable marketing tool. President Doug Robideaux says it’s not only an informative website, but also an award winning website...more |
| 1st Annual Snowball Demo Derby Coming To Ludington |
| Organizers are preparing for the 1st annual Snowball Demolition Derby at the Western Michigan Fairgrounds in Ludington. The demo derby is being held Saturday, February 12th at 1pm...more |
| Granholm Unveiling Tax Restructuring Plan Today |
| Governor Granholm plans to unveil her business tax restructuring plan today. It's intended to attract new jobs to the state...more |
| Retailers Report Less Than Stellar Holiday Sales |
| While it showed some life at the end, Michigan retailers are reporting a very disappointing outcome to the 2004 holiday sales period and are taking a cautious approach on sales forecasts for at least the first quarter of 2005. The Michigan Retailers Association reports average sales growth over the holidays at just under one-percent, far less than a seven percent growth rate which many of their members had forecast in September...more |
| Number Of Michigan Hunters Declining |
| It's not considered a major problem, but it's a nagging one. State Natural Resources Director Rebbeca Humphries says there has been a decline in hunters in Michigan of about one percent per year for the past 15 years...more |
| State Education Officials Fined By Federal Government |
| The Department of Education faces a $125-thousand fine by the federal government for not turning over the results of the 2004 MEAP test for high schools until more than a month into the 2004-2005 school year. Under the federal No Child Left Behind Act, the state must let school officials know if their students' performances on a state standardized test were better than the students of the year prior, a designation known as Adequate Yearly Progress, or AYP...more |
| Detroit Launching Ad Campaign For Super Bowl |
| A Detroit-area tourism group has unveiled a new ad campaign aimed at boosting civic pride as the area prepares to host baseball's 2005 all-star game and the 2006 super bowl. The Tourism Economic Development Council says ads featuring the slogan, "The World is Coming...more |
| California Train Accident Kills 10, Injures 200 |
| At least 10 people were killed and nearly 200 injured on Wednesday when two Los Angeles commuter trains collided after one struck an automobile left on the tracks in what authorities called an aborted suicide attempt by a "deranged" man. Officials say 25-year-old Juan Alvarez slashed his wrists and stabbed himself in the chest shortly before parking his Jeep Cherokee on the tracks...more |
| 36 People Die In Iraq's Deadliest Day |
| Rice Sworn In As Secretary Of State |
| Condoleezza Rice takes over today as America's 66th secretary of state. President Bush plans to attend a ceremonial swearing-in at the State Department tomorrow, with Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg administering the oath...more |
| Bush Urging Iraqis To Vote In Sunday's Election |
| President Bush has made a direct appeal to Iraqis to take part in Sunday's national elections. Bush's appeal comes in an interview with the Arabic language television network, Al-Arabiya...more |
| Patriots Quarterback Suing General Motors |
| New England Patriots Quarterback Tom Brady is suing General Motors for allegedly using his likeness in an ad after his contract expired. Brady filed the 2 million-dollar lawsuit Monday in Los Angeles...more |
| Manistee man facing sentencing for vandalism |
| A 20-year old Manistee County man is expected in 85th District Court in Manistee today in connection with vandalism at Brethren High School. Charles Carver of Kaleva pleaded guilty to malicious destruction of property after he and a 15-year old juvenile shot several windows and doors at Brethren High School with a paintball gun and also tore up the lawn on the property...more |
| Mission Manistee Assisting Needy Homeowners |
| Mission Manistee is accepting applications from qualifying residents who need help with in-home service projects that they otherwise could not afford or accomplish. During the Week of Hope, being held July 24 – 29, volunteer work will be performed at each site by five christian teenagers with their adult supervisors...more |
| Traffic Enforcement Zones Set Up This Weekend |
| The Mason County Sheriff’s Department will continue their traffic enforcement zones this weekend. Today, patrols will be watching US-10 from Ludington to Scottville...more |
| Homemaker's Day Coming To Western Michigan Fair |
| A new contest is coming to this year’s Western Michigan Fair in Ludington. This year’s fair will feature the Homemakers Competition...more |
| Oceana County Celebrating 150th Birthday |
| The Oceana County Board of Commissioners has proclaimed February 13, 2005 to be the county's Sesquicentennial date. The commissioners urge all Oceana County citizens to join together in the observance and celebration of this historic event on February 13th and throughout the year in recognition of Oceana's 150 years as a county...more |
| Local Unemployment Rates Rise |
| Unemployment rates were up in 74 of Michigan’s 83 counties during the month of December. That trend was also seen in all of our local counties...more |
| State Schools Superintendent Future Still Uncertain |
| We may soon know more about the future of State School Superintendent Tom Watkins. The State Board of Education has called a special meeting this weekend to discuss Watkins' future...more |
| Granholm Unveils Tax Restructuring Plan |
| Governor Jennifer Granholm Thursday unveiled her business tax restructuring plan intended to attract new jobs to the state. The Michigan Jobs and Investment Act will cut the existing single business tax rate by 37 percent for those businesses that pay it...more |
| Is Social Security Facing A Crisis? |
| Nearly half of the respondents to a statewide poll believe the Social Security System is facing an immediate crisis. The poll was conducted by Lansing-based Epic MRA for the American Association of Retired Persons...more |
| Tobacco Tax May Be Leading To Decline In Users |
| Nearly six times more people called the Department of Community Health's tobacco quit line in the last six months of 2004 that the first six months of the year. The agency claims the numbers can be directly linked to the 75-cents-a-pack cigarette tax increase...more |
| Ceremony For Condoleezza Rice Being Held Today |
| Condoleezza Rice is being sworn in again for a post she's held since Wednesday. This morning Rice will once again be sworn in as the country's 66th secretary of state...more |
| Iraqi-Americans Begin Voting Today |
| This is a day that many Iraqi-Americans say they never thought they'd live to see -- they're beginning to cast ballots in their homeland's first free election in recent memory. The voting through Sunday is for an assembly that will draw up Iraq's permanent constitution...more |
| New Presidential Helicopter To Be Built |
| The Navy is expected to announce today who will build the next fleet of presidential helicopters.
Sikorsky Aircraft is competing with Lockheed Martin for the one-point-six (b) billion-dollar contract to make the new Marine One...more |
| ATV Deaths Up From Previous Years |
| Government statistics show more people than ever are being killed and injured on all-terrain vehicles as the number of riders increases. New estimates from the Consumer Product Safety Commission show that 621 people were killed in 2002...more |
| Area H.S. teams recognized by the MHSAA |
| Many area High School fall sports programs were recognized for the Michigan High School Athletic Association’s ‘Good Sports are Winners’ awards. 560-teams in girl’s basketball, football and boy’s soccer will be presented with framed certificates from fall tournaments for their sportsmanship...more |
| Recycling working at Kennedy Elementary |
| A recycling program has been back up and running at a Manistee area Elementary school for some time and Superintendent Bob Olson said he challenged the administrators and the teachers and Dee Coola came up with the idea of having the recycling trailer at the Parkdale school to help raise money. Olson said Colla has had help with the program with Brad Solberg and Administrator Ken Kott...more |
| Kaleva gets donation along with membership |
| Manistee Counties Kaleva Library has been growing ever since the new building was constructed and opened for business last August. The 350-thousand dollar structure’s membership has gotten larger and a fine new donation was added this week...more |
| Manistee man barricades himself in home |
| A 28-year old Manistee man is due in 85th District Court today after barricading himself in his home due to a domestic violence report. Manistee City Police responded to the home on Holly Court close to 11:30am Friday morning and found the suspect in his bedroom threatening to cut himself with a knife...more |
| State Police in Manistee bust Muskegon teens |
| State Police from the Manistee Post make a drug bust following routine traffic stop for speeding. Around 5pm on Saturday a Trooper pulled over a Subaru on South US-31 near Norconk road in Bear Lake Township...more |
| 20-year old gets a break in vandalism case |
| A Manistee County man gets fines and probation following an act of vandalism at Brethren High School. 20-year old Charles Carver pleaded guilty to a charge of destruction of trees after Carver and a 15-year old juvenile were caught shooting windows and doors at Brethren High School with a paint gun as well as tearing up the lawn and trees on the grounds of the school earlier this month...more |
| The West Shore High School Quiz Bowl is coming back for the 18th year. The Quiz Bowl is a project of the Mason-Lake and Manistee Intermediate School Districts...more |
| Hoekstra Says Iraq Elections Were A Success |
| History was made Sunday in Iraq and at polling places around the world as Iraqis cast ballots to determine the new leadership of their country. Officials say about 72-percent of Iraqis voted during the country’s first election in 50 years...more |
| Local teachers remain on MEA no contract list |
| The Michigan Education Association (MEA) say’s both Mason County Eastern and Benzie Central Schools remain with out teacher contracts. The 36-teachers of the Meson County Eastern school district have been working with out a new contract since August of 2002...more |
| Van Woerkom Introducing Economic Legislation |
| State Senator Gerald Van Woerkom is one of several Senate Republicans who are holding a press conference today to unveil a package of legislation intended to improve the climate of Michigan's economy. The press conference is being held in Grand Rapids...more |
| Michigan Retailers Support Tax Restructuring Plan |
| The head of the Michigan Retailers Association is giving a thumbs up to Governor Granhom's business tax restructuring plan unveiled last Thursday. The Michigan Jobs and Investment Act will cut the single business tax rate by 37 percent for those businesses that pay it, reduce the reliance on payroll and property in a company's tax assessment, offer tax credits to companies for the personal property taxes they pay as well as for research and development costs...more |
| Lobbyist Legislation May Be Introduced This Week |
| State lawmakers could no longer become lobbyists immediately after leaving office under legislation that may be introduced this week. Michigan is one of the few states that still allows state lawmakers to become lobbyists right after they leave the state house...more |
| Sex Offender Photos Will Be Posted On Internet |
| Michigan plans to begin posting the photos of convicted sex offenders on the internet. The state has been posting the names and addresses of offenders since 1999...more |
| Ku Klux Klan Robe Sold At Howell Auction |
| A Ku Klux Klan robe that's attracted a high level of attention has sold for $1,425. Another robe sold for $1,150 Saturday at an auction in Howell, MI...more |
| Michael Jackson Jury Selection Begins Today |
| Jury selection begins today in Michael Jackson's child molestation trial in California. The judge plans to call an initial pool of 750 prospective jurors...more |
| Who Will Be The Democratic Party Chairman? |
| Former presidential candidate Howard Dean may not be the front runner after all in the race for the chairmanship of the national Democratic Party. A committee of state party chairmen will announce today that it's backing Donnie Fowler, who headed John Kerry's presidential campaign in Michigan...more |
| Ford Recalling 800,000 Vehicles |
| Ford announced that nearly 800,000 vehicles are being recalled, including its top selling truck. The recall affects about 792,000 Ford F-150 pickups, Ford Expeditions and Lincoln Navigators from the 2000 model year...more |
| Helicopter Crashes In Iraq |
| At least ten British soldiers have died in a military plane crash in Iraq. The British transport plane went down earlier Sunday, north of Baghdad...more |
| No DUI Arrests Made In Manistee On New Year's |
| Police say the Dial-A-Ride program in Manistee lead to another safe New Year's holiday. No drunk driving arrests were made on New Year's Eve in Manistee...more |
| Ford's Body Will Return To Grand Rapids Today |
| The body of former President Gerald Ford will arrive in Grand Rapids just after two o'clock this afternoon. The casket will be carried via motorcade to the Gerald Ford Presidential Museum for a brief ceremony...more |
| No Mail Delivery Today In Honor Of Pres. Ford |
| Most federal government offices and courts will be closed Tuesday for a national day of mourning in honor of President Ford. Only those offices and installations deemed necessary for national security or defense or other essential public business will be open...more |
| Arts Council & Church To Finalize Agreement |
| The Ludington Area Arts Council is expected to finalize a purchase agreement this week with the United Methodist Church. The Arts Council is looking to purchase the church on South Harrison Street for $400-thousand...more |
| Police Investigate Murder-Suicide In Lake County |
| Police in Lake County are investigating what appears to be a murder-suicide. Authorities discovered the bodies just after nine o'clock Sunday morning at a home in Newkirk Township...more |
| Mild Weather & Minimal Snow Continues In 2007 |
| 2007 is coming in like a lamb. A mild weekend nearly set records...more |
| DNR Urges Hunters To Shoot Wild Pigs |
| It may not be the most popular hunting season, but ‘Tis the season to shoot a pig. The DNR had urged deer hunters to shoot wild pigs during deer season...more |
| Following a psych exam assault suspect back in court |
By: Chuck Randall
A 20-year old Filer Township man accused of assault after an aattack at an adult foster case facility is scheduled in District Court in Manistee today. Jeffery Partridge was arrested after he attacked two men with a baseball bat on August 29th last year...more |
| Whitetail deer seminar in Scottville |
By: Chuck Randall
A seminar from a nationally recognized whitetail expert will be held in Mason County. Charles Alsheimer will be the speaker for the seminar on whitetail deer management next Wednesday January 10th at 5:30pm at the Mason County Reformed Church...more |
| Auxiliary donate another $25,000 |
By: Chuck Randall
The West Shore Medical Center in Manistee has received $25,000 through a pledge from the Auxiliary. The West Shore Medical Auxiliary said they would raise $122,000 to help the Hospital purchase needed equipment...more |
| Open Murder and Assault case again delayed |
By: Chuck Randall
A Manistee man will under go another criminal responsibility examination in connection with assault and an open murder charge. The attorney for 20-year old Jeffery Partridge requested and was granted an independent psychological competency exam in connection an incident where Partridge assaulted a couple of men at an adult foster care facility last August...more |
| League Of Women Voters Meets Tonight |
| The newly formed League of Women Voters of Manistee County is holding its first meeting of the year tonight. The purpose of tonight's meeting is to set this year's goals and priorities...more |
| Pres. Ford's Funeral Today In Grand Rapids |
| Former presidents and other dignitaries gathered at the National Cathedral in Washington DC yesterday to pay final respects to former President Gerald Ford.
A funeral service is being held today in Grand Rapids...more |
| Blood Donors Urged To Donate This Week |
| The Red Cross is urging people to start the New Year off by donating blood. Wally Taranko is the executive director of the West Shore Chapter of the American Red Cross and says in recent weeks, blood donations have declined by ten to 15 percent...more |
| Ludington Gas Prices Above State Average |
| While gas prices dropped across the state in the past week, they jumped about a dime in the Ludington area. According to Triple-A, the current statewide average for a gallon of gas is down about three cents to $2...more |
| Lake County murder suicide victims identified |
By: Chuck Randall
Lake County Sheriff's Office says that Ernie and Nina Hyers have been identified as the suicide and murder victims who were found on Sunday. Investigators say that it appears that 63-year old Ernie killed 52-year old Nina and then turned the gun on himself...more |
| Manistee County Board's Organizational meeting |
By: Chuck Randall
The Manisteee County Board of Commissioners were happy with the way things are and proved it at their Organizational meeting on Tuesday. Alan O'Shea was appointed to his third year as the Board Chairperson, his 5th as a Commissioner and Janice McCrainer was also re-elected to her third year as Vice Chair, third year as a Commissioner...more |
| City Council meets in Manistee |
By: Chuck Randall
The Manisteee City Council approved Elmer's Crane and Dozer bid for lowering the outfall at Division Street last night. The projects low bid was for $9,360...more |
| New interim Director at Manistee Library |
By: Chuck Randall
Members of the Manistee County Library Board are expected to meet today and sign the final contract for the new interim Director. Out of all the outstanding candidates Charles Haemker was selected to at least stay on until a permanent Director can be found...more |
| Lots of snow at Crystal Mnt for MRA program |
By: Chuck Randall
The warm weather has most likely turned outdoor activity to mush, not so according to the Public Relations Manager at Crystal Mountain. Brian Lawson says that there are 11 slopes open to the public and as long as they have a temperature of 28-degrees they can blow snow on to the slopes and right now the hills have snow...more |
| Pres. Ford Laid To Rest In Grand Rapids |
| Those who knew him best bid their final farewell yesterday to President Gerald Ford. Family, friends and several elected officials filled the Grace Episcopal Church in Grand Rapids yesterday to bid their final farwell to the former President...more |
| Sen. Van Woerkom Will Chair Several Committees |
| State Senator Gerald Van Woerkom has been appointed chairman of the Senate Agriculture Committee and the Local, Urban and State Affairs Committee. Van Woerkom will also serve as vice chair of the Natural Resources and Environmental Affairs Committee and the Education Committee...more |
| Fire destroys a Mesick home |
By: Chuck Rabdall
A home in Mesick was destroyed by fire Wednesday afternoon. Wexford County Fire units were called around 1:30pm to the home that was fully engulfed by the time they arrived...more |
| Arraignment delayed for repete offender |
By: Chuck Randall
A Benzie County man who has been in and out of jail for various charges including breaking and entering, drugs and assault is again facing serious charges. 28-year old Michael Manning of Frankfort, who is currently serving time for a drug and B&E conviction in 2005 in Benzie County is being brought up on charges for two other previous incidents, B&E and 1st degree criminal sexual conduct in Manistee County...more |
| Hoekstra Sworn In To Serve 110th Congress |
| Congressman Pete Hoekstra was sworn in yesterday to serve in the 110th Congress. Hoekstra, who is a Republican, is now a member of the minority with Democrats taking control of Congress...more |
| Unseasonable Weather Takes Toll On Roads |
| The unusual weather pattern is taking its toll on local roads. Gary Ditmer is the manager of the Mason County Road Commission and says we're currently in a wet season, which is not typical of this time of year...more |
| Brethren man stands mute on CSC charges |
By: Chuck Randall
A Manistee County man stood mute at his Circuit Court arraignment in Wexford County in connection with assault and criminal sexual conduct charges. 23-year old David Atkinson of Brethren is accused of allegedly raping the clerk at the Cadillac Shell Mini-Mart while she was working during the early morning hours of October 26 2006...more |
| Different approach for Manistee City Council |
By: Chuck Randall
Members of the Manistee City Council have decided to cancel their upcoming work session. Mayor Cindy Fuller said that following a meeting with City Manager Mitch Deisch and the Economic Development Offices' Tim Ervin the Tuesday January 9th work session would be canceled...more |
| Mild weather is pushing construction at the airport |
By: Chuck Randall
The Manager of Manistee's Blacker Airport Bill House says that thanks to the current temperatures construction on the new terminal building is ahead of schedule. House said that all the foundations for the new structure are just about poured, all the footings are in and the building should start going up within three weeks...more |
| Large Retail forum comin up at Manistee H.S. |
By: Chuck Randall
The Educational Forum concerning Large Retail stores in Manistee County is coming up Monday. The Manistee Economic Development Office's Renee Ihlenfeldt said that the forum is an outstanding opportunity for the community to have access to an individual, Rodney Runyan, who has a large amount of information, education and experience in large retail businesses...more |
| Mason County Democrats Hold County Convention |
| The Mason County Democratic Party held their annual County Convention over the weekend. County Commissioner Neil Russell was re-elected chairman of the party...more |
| Local Woman Not Happy With Wal-Mart Scheduling |
| The nation's largest retailer is revamping the way it schedules its work force. Wal-Mart is using a new computerized scheduling system intended to ensure more associates are working at peak hours...more |
| By-annual election at Manistee Revenue meeting |
By: Chuck Randall
Members of the Manistee Local Revenue Sharing Board will meet to hold their by-annual election tonight. Since the beginning the third eligible local unit of government most impacted by the operations of the Little River Band of Ottawa Indian casino operations has been the City of Manistee who submitted the only application by the January 2nd deadline...more |
| Large Retail forum tonight at MHS |
By: Chuck Randall
An expert on Large Retail stores coming to small communities will be at Manistee High School to discuss the issue tonight. Tonight's Community Education Forum is open to the public and according to the Economic Development Office's Renee' Ihlenfeldt top business personnel should also make an effort to attend...more |
| Filer Twp. next for Small Town Design boards |
By: Chuck Randall
The design Boards for the Small Town Design Initiative are getting closer to the City of Manistee. The concept design boards will be at the Filer Township Hall beginning today for a couple weeks then they will be displayed in Manistee before two Michigan State University Professors, Warren Rauhe (Row) and Pat Crawford, come to town to get some additional input from the community that will be discussed with their students...more |
| EDO calls dredging meeting at City Hall |
By: Chuck Randall
The Manistee Economic Development Office (EDO) has called a special meeting concerning the dredging of Manistee River. Recently the Corps of Engineers removed the Manistee River Channel from the list of Harbors to be dredged this year...more |
| Grant Will Help Redevelop Downtown Building |
| The City of Ludington is applying for a $247-thousand grant from the Michigan State Housing Development Authority to help renovate the former Stram Building on South James Street. City Manager John Shay says one of the stipulations of the grant is that the developer must rent out the upstairs apartments as low income rentals...more |
| Daycare Ordinance Approved In Ludington |
| People wishing to open certain types of daycare facilities in the city of Ludington will need a special use permit under a new ordinance adopted by the city council. Councilor Kaye Holman says the ordinance defines various types of daycares and outlines where in the city they may be located...more |
| Kaye Holman Will Serve As Ludington Mayor Pro-Tem |
| Ludington City Councilor Kaye Holman will serve as the Mayor Pro-Tem during 2007. She was appointed to the serve in that position by the city council Monday night...more |
| Lawsuit Against City of Ludington Dismissed |
| A lawsuit filed against the City of Ludington over water damage that allegedly occurred at a resident's house in October of 2005 has been dismissed with prejudice, which means the suit cannot be re-filed. State Farm Insurance, on behalf of a local resident, filed the lawsuit seeking over $10-thousand in damages which they claimed was caused by the city while attempting to fix a broken water line...more |
| Grant Awarded To Help Build Skate Park In Ludington |
| The Michigan Department of Natural Resources is giving the city of Ludington $75-thousand to help with the construction of a new skate park. The money from the Land and Water Conservation Fund will go towards the $200-thousand price tag of the proposed park which will be located north of the Jaycees mini-golf course at the Stearns Park Beach...more |
| Scottville Commissioners Approve Ordinances |
| Following a public hearing at last night's Scottville City Commission meeting, amendments to the dog ordinance and the ordinance to continue Scottville's Downtown Development Authority plan were approved. In other business, the city has decided to take further advisement regarding the possible rental of the old Healy Building to Jim Jabrocki, who would like to rent to own to establish his tractor and wood stove sales business...more |
| Manistee man pleads to CSC charge |
By: Chuck Randall
A 52-year old Manistee man accepted a plea in connection with charges of criminal sexual conduct, forgery and stalking. Gary Verheek agreed to plead guilty to felony counts of attempting to forge a check and 4th degree CSC a charge of stalking was dismissed...more |
| Onekama man with meth lab gets jail time |
By: Chuck Randall
An Onekama Township man is sentenced to jail in connection with operating a methamphetamine lab. 47-year old Mark Agle accepted a plea agreement with the prosecution at his November appearance to plead to one count of manufacturing meth second offense...more |
| Application revised at Revenue Sharing meeting |
By: Chuck Randall
The members of the Manistee Local Revenue Sharing Board announced revisions to their application. Manistee County Administrator Tom Kaminski said that questions are no longer repeated and the application will be easier to complete...more |
By: Chuck Randall
The Manistee High School commons area was filled with people wanting to learn more about large retail stores in Manistee. Department of Retailing at the University of South Carolina Professor Rodney Runyan outlined the pros and cons of a WalMart coming to a small town...more |
| Benzie Deputies make arrests in Mini-Mart B&E |
By: Chuck Randall
Deputies from the Benzie County Sheriff's Office are investigating a breaking and entering at the Frankfort E-Z Mart store. Sheriff's Deputies were summoned during the early morning hours on Tuesday morning where well over 10-thousand dollars worth of items were taken from the store during an 8-month period by from 10 to 15-individuals...more |
| Benzie man will face more charges in Manistee |
By: Chuck Randall
First degree criminal sexual conduct and breaking and entering charges have caught up with a Benzie County man serving time for other offences. 28-year old Michael Manning is in prison for 30-months to 14-years on B&E and drug convictions in 2005...more |
| Planners Approve SLU For New Condo Development |
| The Ludington Planning Commission last night approved a special land use for a new condominium development on Pere Marquette Lake. It's the first of many steps the developer needs to take in order to build condos...more |
| Free Bus Rides To West Shore Community College |
| Free bus rides to and from West Shore Community College will again be offered to students and people using college facilities. The college is underwriting the operational costs of the bus service to encourage more students to pursue their education without concerns over high gas prices...more |
| Dredging was discussed in Manistee |
By: Chuck Randall
How is Manistee going to get the Manistee River Dredged in 2007 was the subject of a get together at City Hall. Several City Officials and representatives on behalf of Pete Hoekstra,Michell McManus and others listened to Army Corps of Engineers Wayne Sloop discuss what can the city and other Northern Michigan ports, who were not on the Presidents list for dredging, do during the upcoming freighter season...more |
| PM Twp. Establishes New Demolition Guidelines |
| The Pere Marquette Township Board of Trustees approved an amendment to the building and zoning schedule fees last night. The amendment establishes new guidelines for the extension and fee structure pertaining to demolition permits issued by the township...more |
| Hoekstra Comments On Passage Of 9/11 Recommendations |
| House Democrats say they plan to strengthen homeland security after five years of complaining that Republicans weren't doing enough. Congress quick passed legislation yesterday implementing recommendations of the 9-11 commission...more |
| Oakview Millage Placed On May 8th Ballot |
| Voters in Mason County will be asked to approve a millage for Oakview Medical Care Facility during the May 8th election. The county board yesterday approved a request to place the millage on the ballot...more |
| Septic Ordinance Committee meets |
By: Chuck Randall
For the past couple of months a committee has been working to put together a County-Wide Septic Ordinance. The Sanitation Ordinance Committee met last night at the Road Commission building to continue to put together a plan...more |
| Hoekstra Comments On Bush's News Conference |
| President Bush last night personally took responsibility for mistakes in the war in Iraq and also unveiled his new strategy during a prime time address to the nation. President Bush acknowledged for the first time Wednesday that he erred by not ordering a military buildup in Iraq last year and said he was increasing U...more |
| Hoekstra Returns To Education & Labor Committee |
| Congressman Pete Hoekstra will return to the House Committee on Education and Labor after a two year leave of absence. It makes him third in seniority on that committee...more |
| Drunk Driver Sentenced For Fatal Accident |
| A Ludington will man will spend up to three months is jail on charges stemming from a fatal drunk driving accident. 61-year-old Richard Benson was found guilty last month of operating while intoxicated...more |
| Area Lawmakers Sworn-In At State Capitol |
| Area lawmakers were sworn in yesterday at the State Capitol. State Representative Geoff Hansen of Hart is serving is second term in the State House and says jobs are the top priority for the legislature...more |
| Man in prison faces CSC charges in Manistee |
By: Chuck Randall
A 28-year old Benzie County man was arraigned on criminal sexual conduct charges stemming from two incidents in the 1990's in Manistee County. Michael Manning, currently serving time in prison for drug and breaking and entering charges, was charged with 1st degree CSC under 13, 2nd degree CSC under 13 for incidents that occurred in 1996 and 97in Bear Lake Township...more |
| Manistee County wind machine at NMC |
By: Chuck Randall
A Manistee County company's wind energy machine is up and running at Northwestern Michigan College (NMC). Following a $260,000 grant to the college for a solar and wind energy project Contractors Building Supply of Copemish and Hallmark Construction have completed the system...more |
| Local athletes nominated for Basketball event |
By: Chuck Randall
Athletes from Mason and Benzie County have been selected to compete in the McDonald's All American High School Basketball teams. Mason County Eastern Senior High Boys Basketball nominee Michael Smith and Frankfort H...more |
| Man Resentenced For Fatal Oceana County Crash |
| A Newaygo County man will spend another year in jail after being resentenced this week on charges stemming from a fatal accident that happened two and a half years ago. 21-year-old Daniel Thomas was sentenced in 2005 to a year in jail after pleading guilty to two counts of driving while intoxicated causing death...more |
| Gas Prices Fall To $2.08 a Gallon |
| We're ending the week with considerably lower gas prices. Gas in Ludington averages $2...more |
| Trio busted in Lake County fro B&E's |
By: Randall / Neushwander
Investigators believe they’ve solved a rash of burglary cases in Lake County. According to a press release from the Lake County Sheriff’s Department, three people were arrested for breaking in to a home in Webber Township...more |
| CSC suspect from Manistee in Wexford Court |
By: Chuck Randall
A Manistee County man is scheduled for a pre-trial today in connection with charges of 1st degree criminal sexual conduct and assault. 23-year old David Atkinson of Brethren stood mute at his arraignment in Circuit Court in Wexford County after her was identified on video tape at the Cadillac Shell Mini-Mart on October 26th last year...more |
| Hoekstra wants to help with dredging issue |
By: Chuck Randall
On the heals of a meeting earlier this week concerning the lack of funds to dredge Manistee's deep water port, Congressman Pete Hoekstra scheduled a District wide meeting to discuss the subject. Several State and local officials were in Manistee to talk about what can be done for the up coming freighter season...more |
| Today is the deadline for scholarship program |
By: Chuck Randall
Today is the deadline to submit your application for a 500-dollar scholarship from the Manistee and National Elks Foundations. Middle School Principal Matt Kieffer says that students have until the end of today to turn in there applications for either the student of the month or the $500...more |
| Heavy Snow Warning In Effect Until Noon |
| Snow plows are busy this morning as several inches of snow fell overnight. Mason, Lake and Oceana Counties remain under a Heavy Snow Warning until noon today...more |
| Two People Killed During ORV Accident In Branch |
| Two people are dead following an ORV accident that happened early Saturday morning in Mason County. The crash happened at about three o’clock Saturday morning near Landon Road in Branch Township...more |
| Gas Prices Fall Below $2.00 A Gallon |
| Gas prices fell to less than two-dollars a gallon over the weekend.
Triple-A Michigan says its the first time since February of 2005 that gas prices have slipped to less than two-dollars a gallon...more |
| Beech Bark Disease Joins List Of Eco-Invaders |
By: Alan Neushwander
& Associated Press
Beech bark disease has joined the list of Michigan eco-invaders. The disease was discovered in Michigan in 2000 when it was first noticed in the Ludington State Park...more |
| Dredging Meeting Rescheduled |
| The meeting with Congressman Pete Hoekstra in Muskegon to discuss dredging issues has been moved to February 5th. The event was originally scheduled for January 16th...more |
| Ludington Schools To Discuss Restructuring Plan |
| The Ludington School Board will discuss a restructuring plan during their meeting tonight. The plan includes closing Franklin Elementary, moving all 3rd through 5th graders to Foster Elementary and moving all kindergarten through second graders to Lakeview and South Hamlin...more |
| WSCC Board Considers Learning Center Bids |
| The West Shore Community College Board of Trustees will meet today to consider accepting new bids for the Student Learning Center. The original bids came in over budget by a million dollars...more |
| Spring Semester Starts Thursday At WSCC |
| The spring semester at West Shore Community College starts on Thursday. The college is offering nearly 350 course selections at the main campus and at the Manistee County Center...more |
| Ludington Student Nominated For US Naval Academy |
| A Ludington student is among 16 students from West Michigan being considered for acceptance into the 2011 class of the US Naval Academy. Erik Bransdorfer, who is home schooled, has been nominated by Congressman Pete Hoekstra...more |
| Man pleads not guilty to stabbing a woman |
By: Chuck Randall
A Lake County man accused of stabbing a Baldwin woman pleads not guilty at his preliminary hearing. 48-year old Steven Randolph of Baldwin was arrested in mid-December last year and charged with domestic aggravated felonious assault to do great bodily harm after he cut a 5-inch wound in to a woman's neck...more |
| 74-year old Manistee man awaits drug trial |
By: Chuck Randall
A 74-year old Manistee man facing several years in prison in connection with drug charges is scheduled for a final status hearing. Thomas Jones was busted after he attempted to make a drug deal with an undercover officer in April last year by delivering close to 50-grams of methadone...more |
| United Way "Celebrate What Matters" on the 27th |
By: Chuck Randall
Tickets for the United Way of Manistee County's “Celebrate What Matters” campaign celebration Dinner are on sale for the January 27th event. The United Way Executive Director Sharron Lemmer said the comedy entertainment should be great, P...more |
| Loaded Handgun Found At Ludington Jr. High |
| Ludington May Close School As Enrollment Declines |
| Ludington School Board heard a presentation last night about a restructuring plan which could be implemented as early as the 2008-2009 school year. The plan would include closing Franklin Elementary, moving all 3rd through 5th grade students to Foster School and moving all kindergarten through second graders to Lakeview and South Hamlin...more |
| WSCC Approves New Bids For Learning Center |
| Revised bids have been received and approved by the West Shore Community College Board for construction of the new student learning center. Actual ground breaking will begin today, weather permitting...more |
| Schools Canceled Due To More Snow |
| Several more inches of snow fell yesterday in the Ludington area prompting some local school districts to cancel class today. Click on the link on this website to see if your school, business or other event is closed, canceled or delayed due to the weather...more |
| A Baldwin woman take a plea for forgery |
BY: Chuck Randall
A Lake County woman entered a plea at her recent Court appearance concerning passing forged checks. 41-year old Terri Wanamaker of Baldwin plead no contest to a charge of uttering and publishing for writing forged checks...more |
| Location moved for Energy Fair meeting |
By: Chuck Randall
The location of the next Energy Fair meeting in Manistee has been moved to the County Fairgrounds in Onekama. The meeting will be held in the Pavilion from 4 until 6pm on Wednesday January 17th...more |
| Meeting Held To Discuss Scottville's Future |
| Residents and business owners got together yesterday to discuss the future of downtown Scottville. Business owner Suzie Lange says people need to support their community by shopping and dining in downtown Scottville...more |
| New Board Members At Ludington Area Arts Council |
| Anticipating the creation of a center for the arts, the Ludington Area Arts Council is expanding its board of directors. Newly elected to three-year terms on the board are Brad Reed, Ted Malt and Kari Karr...more |
| Manistee man awaits trial on CSC in Cadillac |
By: Chuck Randall
A Manistee County man and his attorney are preparing for trial following his pre-trial hearing in connection with criminal sexual conduct charges. 23-year old David Atkinson of Brethren was denied bond at his appearance in Wexford County Circuit Court on three charges of CSC 1st degree and a forth charge of assault with a dangerous weapon...more |
| New Under Sheriff coming to Manistee Office |
By: Chuck Randall
A new Manistee County Undersheriff was named at the Manistee County Board of Commissioners meeting. Sheriff Dale Kowalkowski introduced Sargent John O'Hagen who will take over for current Undersheriff Doug Cermack who is retiring on March 31st...more |
| Bathhouse bid approved at City Council meeting |
By: Chuck Randall
Members of the Manistee City Council accepted a bid for construction of the foundation for the 5th Avenue Beach House at last night's meeting. The bid for Joseph A...more |
| Lot purchased at Manistee's Renaissance Park |
By: Chuck Randall
Another lot at the Renaissance Park is purchased. Lot 12 will be used by Bad Dog Security Systems, Inc...more |
| Mason Co. Jail Evacuated Following Bomb Threat |
| The "all-clear" had been given and inmates have returned to the Mason County Jail in Ludington. Inmates were evacuated and taken to a public transit garage after a bomb threat was called in to the Mason County Sheriff's Department at 12:30pm Wednesday...more |
| Teen Heads To Prison For Crash That Killed Infant |
| An Oceana County teenager will spend at least the next three years in prison on charges related to a crash that killed her infant daughter. 18-year-old Martina Marcin of Shelby was sentenced to three-to-15 years in prison on charges of driving while intoxicated causing death and driving while intoxicated causing serious injury...more |
| Police Investigate Armed Robbery In Manistee |
| Police are investigating an armed robbery that happened at the KampVilla mobile home park in Manistee County’s Pleasanton Township. Authorities say a 34-year-old man was entering his mobile home when someone came up from behind and placed a knife to his throat and demanded that he give him all of his prescription drugs and money...more |
| City Police continue to search for suspects |
By: Chuck Randall
Manistee City Police are continuing their investigation in to the vandalism at the public bathroom on River Street downtown. Detective Sergent John Riley said that there has been an on going problem at the downtown bathroom...more |
| Special Olympics Hockey fundraiser at WSCC |
By: Chuck Randall
The Annual Area 24 Special Olympics charity ice hockey game is coming up at the West Shore College Ice Arena. The Oaks Correctional Facility and Friends will play Gordy's Skate Company of Ludington...more |
| Prosecutor Reviewing Student Gun Charges |
| Charged could be filed as early as today against a Ludington teenager who brought a loaded gun to school on Monday. The case against the 14-year-old boy was turned over to the Mason County Prosecutor yesterday afternoon...more |
| Teen Arrested For Making Bomb Threat At Jail |
| A teenager has been arrested and is charged with a felony in connection with Wednesday’s bomb threat at the Mason County Jail. Sheriff Laude Hartrum says 18-year-old Jeremy Wicker of Ludington was arrested and arraigned Thursday on charges of making a false bomb threat...more |
| Road Closed At WSCC Campus For Construction |
| The main drive through the campus of West Shore Community College is closed and will remain closed during the construction phase of the new Student Learning Center. The construction company overseeing the project urges drivers to use caution and obey traffic signs that may be posted during construction...more |
| Study Should Help Bring Jobs To Mason County |
| The Mason County Growth Alliance has recently contracted with a firm to conduct a Target Industry Analysis for Mason County. David Miller is the President of the Growth Alliance and says the firm will try to find companies looking to grow and expand, particularly to West Michigan...more |
| Local Schools Face Large Cuts In State Funding |
| The State School Aid Fund faces a shortfall of $377-million. During a revenue estimating conference yesterday in Lansing it was announced that schools face a $218-per-pupil cut in the middle of the year...more |
| Following jail Manistee man violates probation |
By: Chuck Randal
A 20-year old Mansitee man pleads not guilty to a violation of his probation in connection with a series of breaking and entering crimes in Manistee and Mason County. Kenneth Turek was arrested in January of 2003 for stealing a car in Manistee and breaking into several businesses along US-10 in Ludington...more |
| Manistee County teen pleads to B&E's |
By: Chuck Randall
A Manistee County teen pleads guilty to several breaking and entering crimes in Wexford County Circuit Court. 17-year old Jesse Revolt of Copemish pleaded guilty to B&E with intent following robberies that took place in Springville Township from early October to mid-November last year...more |
| Mason County Central host archery program |
By: Chuck Randall
A Mason County School will host a Michigan Department of Natural Resources free basic archery instruction course. The program is designed for physical education teachers who wish to join the DNR's Archery in the Schools Program...more |
| Hospital President Discusses Rising Cost of Health Care |
| The new president of Memorial Medical Center in Ludington gave his first public presentation yesterday during a meeting with area business leaders. Mark Vipperman outlined what he called “Health Care's Perfect Storm” which includes managing the rising costs of health care...more |
| Undercover drug bust in Benzie County |
By: Chuck Randall
Authorities from Benzie County arrest two suspects following an undercover drug buy. The two suspects Delmar Bowens and Leah Marino attempted to sell two and a half grams of cocaine to the undercover authorities in Crystal Lake Township near Frankfort...more |
| UPDATE: Charges Filed In Student Gun Incident |
| Charges have been filed against an eight grade student from Ludington who brought a loaded gun to school on Monday. The Mason County Prosecutor Friday sent a petition to Juvenile Court for charges of Carrying a Concealed Weapon and Carrying a Dangerous Weapon with Unlawful Intent...more |
| School teacher facing porn charges |
By: Chuck Randall
A 14-year Lake County School Teacher is formally charged on charges connected with child pornography. 59-year old Sidney Clute was charged on counts of possession of child pornography and surveilling and unclothed person...more |
| Arson/animal cruelty face Manistee man |
By: Chuck Randall
A Manistee man accused of setting a series of fires and killing a pet will be in court today for a final status hearing. 22-year old Sky Stroh is facing several arson charges as well as the animal cruelty charge in his final status hearing...more |
| T.C. couple sell drugs to Benzie Officer |
By: Chuck Randall
Two suspects accused of attempting to sell drugs to an undercover Benzie County Officer are arraigned. 30-year old Delmar Bowens was charged with delivery and manufacturing cocaine less than 50-grams and driving on a suspended license, he's being held on a $200,000 bond...more |
| Indiana Man Injured During Snowmobile Accident |
| An Indiana man was injured during a snowmobile accident Friday afternoon in Manistee County. The accident happened just before 1pm on Old House Road in Norman Township...more |
| Right To Life Holds Annual March For Life |
| Today marks the 34th anniversary of Roe vs. Wade, the Supreme Court ruling which legalized abortion...more |
| Financial Aid Workshop Today In Ludington |
| A financial aid workshop is being held tonight at Ludington High School. Members of the West Shore Community College Financial Aid Office is hosting the workshop which provides students with information about post-secondary education...more |
| CHOICES fights homelessness in Manistee |
By: Chuck Randall
The Executive Director of CHOICES of Manistee Jackie Kiszelik recently addressed the problem of Homeless residents in the County. Kiszelik said that more ideas to battle Homelessness are needed...more |
| City Purchases Ludington Lighthouse |
| The City of Ludington will soon take possession of the North Pier Lighthouse. City Council last night approved a deed which would allow the city to purchase the lighthouse from the federal government for a dollar...more |
| MCC Schools Open Time Capsule |
| A time capsule was opened during last night's Mason County Central School Board meeting. The time capsule was found when crews removed a cornerstone from the high school last week...more |
| City Council Approves Plans For New Condos |
| The North Shore Villa condominiums are one step closer to becoming a reality. The Ludington City Council last night approved a preliminary plan which would allow the developer to construct 132 condos and a marina on a piece of property located behind Brill Manufacturing near the Carferry Docks...more |
| Construction Back On Schedule At MCC Schools |
| Officials gave an update on the construction at the Mason County Central school district during last night's meeting. They say they're back on schedule for the new elementary building...more |
| Appraisal Moving Forward For Old Healy Building |
| The appraisal process is moving forward on the Old Healy Building owned by the City of Scottville. A rental agreement for the building to house a tractor sales distributor fell through, but the city needs to know the market value of the property to either sell it or rent it out...more |
| Local School Districts Happy With MEAP Results |
By: Alan Neushwander
& Chuck Randall
Math and reading scores are going up in the state of Michigan. Results from the MEAP tests were released yesterday...more |
| Benzie Undersheriff announces retirement |
By: Chuck Randall
Six year Benzie County Undersheriff has decided to step down from his position in March. For the last 27-years Joseph Barone has served the people of Benzie County as a deputy, Detective Sergeant and Undersheriff since 2001...more |
| Arson and cruelty case adjourned in Manistee |
By: Chuck Randall
A Manistee mans case charging him with arson and cruelty to animals is adjourned. During 22-year old Sky Stroh's final status hearing his lawyer requested additional time to gather witnesses who allegedly can spread some light in Stroh's defense and possibly exonerate him from some arson charges...more |
| Totals low in successful charity hockey game |
By: Chuck Randall
The totals were down during the 5th Annual Area 24 Special Olympic charity hockey game at West Shore Community College. With funds a little low, $1,500 was raised for the Area 24 teams, the attendance was not at Saturdays game between the Oaks Correctional Facility and Gordies Skate Company of Ludington...more |
| MEAP scores at MAPS are up |
By: Chuck Randall
The latest Michigan Education Assessment Program (MEAP) test scores are returned to Manistee Area Public Schools with great results. The School's Superintendent Bob Olson says that the improved scores shows improvement adding that the Administrators, Teachers, and paraprofessionals and everyone is moving together on student achievement...more |
| Local Student Intended To Shoot Three Teachers |
| A local student who brought a loaded gun to school last week intended to use it.
Ludington Police Chief Mark Barnett says the 14-year-old boy intended to shoot three of his teachers at O...more |
| Hoekstra Comments On State of the Union |
| Congressman Pete Hoekstra says president Bush delivered a positive State of the Union address last night. Hoekstra says the four main issues that stood out for him during the speech were energy independence, Social Security reform, balancing the budget and the threat from radical militant Islam...more |
| Fremont Native Sits With First Lady During Bush's Speech |
| A West Michigan native was provided a seat in First Lady Laura Bush's box to watch the State of the Union address last night. Air Force Tech...more |
| Rep. Hansen Wants State To Use Baldwin Prison |
| State Representative Goeff Hansen of Hart says he's got a solution on how to solve the state's prison overcrowding problem. He says he reminds the Granholm Administration that a 450-bed facility is sitting idle in Lake County...more |
| Troopers follow leads in attempted robbery |
By: Chuck Randall
State Police from the Manistee Post are continuing their investigation into an attempted armed robbery at the KampVilla mobile home park. Investigators say that the description of the suspect is a good one and they are following a couple of leads although there is no one in custody...more |
| Computer Skills again at WSCC |
By: Chuck Randall
The Women's Resource Center at West Shore Community College will repeat their Computer Skills Training Seminar. The Director of the WRC Carla Shay says that this is an opportunity for new and experienced computer users to become more comfortable with your computer...more |
| CSC suspet bound over to Circuit in Manistee |
By: Chuck Randall
A criminal sexual conduct suspect is bound over to Circuit Court in Manistee after testimony from the alleged victim. A 15-year old girl testified that when she was 5 or 6-years old she was sexually molested by Michael Manning who was living her and her mother in Bear Lake at the time of two separate incidents...more |
| Student May Be Expelled For Bringing Gun To School |
| The Ludington School Board has called a special meeting for next Wednesday to determine what action they will take against the 8th grade student who brought a loaded gun to O.J...more |
| Manis falls throgh tin ice in Benzie County |
By: Chuck Randall
A Northern Michigan man is suffering from exposure after falling through thin ice on a Benzie County Lake. Investigators say that the man was ice fishing in the middle of Mary's Lake near Lake Ann when he went through the ice...more |
| Area busnesses are awarded scrap tire grants |
By: Randall/Neushwander
13-thousand scrap tires will be cleaned up in Oceana County thanks to funding from the Department of Environmental Quality. The DEQ is giving the county more than 14-thousand-dollars to clean up two sites...more |
| High School Quiz Bowl back at WSCC |
By: Chuck Randall
The High School Quiz Bowl will be back at West Shore Community College for the 20th year. Competition begins on February 2nd in the Center Stage Theater with students from Class B and C, Class D will be in competition on February 9th...more |
| Small Town Design presents Story Boards |
By: Chuck Randall
Following last nights Small Town Design meeting at Manistee High School the next design steps will be taken by MSU students. The people in attendance in the Media Center at MHS had a chance to make more suggestions concerning the Story Boards so that final designs can be produced...more |
| Ludington Man Appears On NBC Game Show Tonight |
| A Ludington business owner will appear on a hit NBC game show tonight. David Alexander of Alexander-Rye Funeral Home will be on “1 vs...more |
| Officials Say Bring Pets Inside During Cold Weather |
| The Mason County Animal Control office reminds people that as the temperature drops, pets should be brought inside. Animal Control officer Lisa Greenlee says it's extremely difficult for animals to stay warm with the temperatures and wind chills as severe as what is being forecasted...more |
| Moonlight Ski at the Big-M on Saturday in Manistee |
By: Chuck Randall
For the 10th straight year the Manistee Ski Council schedules two Moonlight Ski events. The Executive Director of the Manistee Chamber Dave Yarnell said the Big-M ski area will be open for Saturday's moonlight ski and the lodge will be open as well with a fire inside as well as an outside fire pit...more |
| United Way dinner at the Casino on Saturday |
By: Chuck Randall
The “Celebrate What Matters” United Way of Manistee County campaign dinner is this weekend at the Little River Casino Resort. The President of the United Way Mary Hurley say's this event should help them reach their $200,000 goal...more |
| Jury Selection Begins Today In Jankowski Trial |
| Jury selection will begin today for a downstate man involved in a fatal accident that happened in September of 2005 in Mason County. 35-year-old Kurt Jankowski of Livonia is charged with negligent homicide for causing a traffic backup on Pere Marquette Highway which eventually led to a motorcyclist being killed...more |
| Police Investigate Fraudulent Classified Ad |
| Troopers from the Manistee Post of the Michigan State Police are investigating a fraud cause, which was discovered in a newspaper classified ad. Investigators say a classified ad was placed in a local newspaper which directed people to a website where they could post a resume for a fee between $10 and $300...more |
| Palsrok Reappointed To Three House Committees |
| State Representative David Palsrok of Manistee has been reappointed to three House committees for the 2007-2008 legislative session. The third-term lawmaker will serve on the committees for Commerce, Regulatory Reform and Energy and Technology...more |
| Local Gas Prices Increase By 15-Cents |
| Local gas prices are up by 15-cents compared to the start of last week. The average price for a gallon of regular unleaded in Ludington is $2...more |
| Deadline To Register To Vote In Feb. 27 Election |
| Today is the deadline to register to vote in the February 27th election. The West Shore Community College renewal proposition and the Free Soil Headlee Restoration propositions are the only issues on the ballot in Mason County...more |
| Anti-War Rallies Held In Ludington & Washington DC |
| Thousands of people protested the war in Iraq Saturday in Washington, DC. A similar, but smaller rally was also held at the Mason County Courthouse in Ludington...more |
| United Way in Manistee will have a new Director |
By: Chuck Randall
A new Executive Director for the United Way of Manistee County was named during the “Celebrate What Matters” event. Current Executive Director Sharron Lemmer announced that Corey Van Fleet of Irons Will take over her position, which she's held for the past 5-years, in March...more |
| MAI to hold their annual dinner tonight at the Bungalo |
By: Chuck Randall
The Manistee Art Institute will hold their annual dinner meeting tonight. Besides discussing the successes of 2006 and up coming shows for 2007, the VIVA award will be presented to most outstanding volunteer...more |
| Manistee Chamber announces awards |
By: Chuck Randall
Manistee Mayor Cindy Fuller is selected as the Manistee Area Chamber of Commerce 2007 Citizen of the Year. Fuller will be honored at he Chambers annual dinner on February 23rd at the Little River Casino Resort...more |
| West Shore YMCA Closing Its Doors |
| After three years of operation, the West Shore Family YMCA in Ludington is closing its doors. According to a press release, although steady growth in membership was evident, it wasn't sufficient to cover daily expenses...more |
| Couple bound over after selling drugs to Benzie Deputy |
By: Chuck Randall
A Traverse City Couple have their preliminary hearing after trying to sell drugs to an undercover Benzie County Deputy. 30-year old Delmar Bowens Jr...more |
| Opening Arguments Heard In Jankowski Trial |
| Opening arguments were heard yesterday in the trial of a Livonia man who was involved in a fatal drunk driving accident in September of 2005 in Mason County. 35-year-old Kurt Jankowski is charged with negligent homicide for causing a traffic backup on Pere Marquette Highway which eventually led to an accident that killed 40-year-old Rich Duggan of Ludington...more |
| MAI hold their annual meeting |
By: Chuck Randall
About 50-members of the Manistee Art Institute attended last night's annual meeting. Following dinner the VIVA (Very Important Volunteer Award) was given to the Manistee News Advocates Ken Grabowski...more |
| Area Special Olympians in Winter Games |
By: Chuck Randall
Athletes from Manistee, Mason and Lake Counties representing Area 24 Special Olympics will be heading to the 2007 State Winter Games in Traverse City. 10-Athletes in all will compete in the various Snow Shoe races on the grounds of the Grand Traverse Resort and Spa...more |
| Donation completesFrankfort Respite Room |
By: Chuck Randall
A $10,000 donation allows respite for a caregiver at Paul Oliver Memorial Hospital in Frankfort. The POMH Auxiliary made the money donation possible so that caregivers can bring loved ones to the room for short stays...more |
| Bomb Threat Suspect Will Appear In Court |
| A teenager who called in a bomb threat to the Mason County Jail earlier this month is expected to appear in District Court today for a preliminary hearing. 18-year-old Jeremy Wicker of Ludington is charged with a felony count of making a false bomb threat...more |
| Hearing Today For Student Who Brought Gun To School |
| The Ludington School Board will meet tonight to discuss what action will be taken against the 8th grade student who brought a loaded gun to school earlier this month. The 14-year-old faces permanent expulsion...more |
| Heckman Hired As Benzie County Undersheriff |
| The Benzie County Sheriff’s Department will have a new undersheriff. Sheriff Bob Blank announced yesterday that Rory Heckman has been hired to take over as undersheriff starting March 5th...more |
| Trial Date Set In Lawsuit Against City of Ludington |
| A trial date has been set in a lawsuit filed against the City of Ludington by its former building inspector. Jack Byers was fired in May for what city officials said what his inability to work with the public in a professional manner...more |
| Survey Will Help College With Strategic Plan |
| There's still time to participate in a survey to help West Shore Community College with its strategic planning process. Officials say the results of the survey will become a road map to the future and enable the college to be more agile and responsive to the needs of the community...more |
| Harbor Dredging Major Part Of Spending Bill |
| The United States Congress is currently in recess, but lawmakers wrapped up 2007 with some major legislation. West Michigan Congressman Pete Hoekstra says the year ended with Congress passing the largest spending bill ever...more |
| Several Arrests Made During New Year's Holiday |
| The Mason County Sheriff's Office made a few alcohol related arrests over the New Year's holiday. At 10:30pm on New Year's Eve, deputies cited a 30-year-old man for having an open intoxicant inside a car following a traffic stop on US-10 at Stephens Road...more |
| Two Injured During Accident On US-10 In Ludington |
| Two people were injured during an accident at about 5:30pm Wednesday on US-10 near the Fairgrounds in Ludington. According to a report from the Mason County Sheriff's Office, an 81-year-old Ludington man was leaving a parking lot and pulled into the path of an eastbound vehicle driven by a 46-year-old Ludington man on US-10...more |
| First Baby of 2008 Born At Memorial Medical Center |
|
The Ludington area's first baby of the year was born yesterday morning.
Anastacio James Ramirez came into the world at 10:24am Wednesday at Memorial Medical Center...more |
| Board Discusses Casino Revenue Sharing Deal |
| The Manistee County Board of Commissioners held their annual Organizational meeting on Wednesday. Vice-Chairperson Janice McCraner was unanimously re-elected for another term...more |
| Forum Tonight On County Jail Millage Request |
| A public forum will be held tonight to go over details of the operational millage request for the Mason County Jail, which will appear on the January 15th ballot. The county is asking voters to approve a ...more |
| Missing Lake County Teens Found Safe |
| Two teenagers reported missing from Lake County have been found safe. The boys, who were from Irons, told family members they were going hunting on Monday, but failed to return home...more |
| Embezzlement Suspect Bound Over For Trial |
| A woman who police believe embezzled hundreds of thousands of dollars from a local business has waived her preliminary hearing in Mason County District Court. 70-year-old Alice Clark was arrested after financial irregularities showed up in a business account from McCormick Sawmills in Fountain...more |
| Local Police Say New Year Holiday Was Safe |
| Local law enforcement say the 2007 Drive Safe, Drive Sober campaign was a success over the New Year's holiday. A total of 508 people took advantage of the free rides offered by the Ludington Mass Transit Authority and there were only two traffic accidents in Mason County with no injuries...more |
| Area Saw Above Average Snowfall In December |
| The area saw above average snowfall in December. National Weather Service Observer Dick Hamilton recorded 27...more |
| Manistee City Council Holds 1st Meeting of 2008 |
| Members of the Manistee City Council met for the first time in 2008 with a very light agenda last night. The Council voted to change their Tuesday January 15th meeting to the 16th due to the Presidential Primary Election...more |
| County Clerk Says Interest Low In Jan. 15 Primary |
| Absentee ballot request for the January 15th presidential primary are high in some parts of Michigan, but the same doesn't hold true in Mason County. County Clerk Jim Riffle says interest, so far, in the primary has been very low...more |
| Manistee National Guardsmen Leaving For Iraq |
| About 50 members of the Army National Guard in Manistee are preparing to be deployed to the Middle East. The soldiers are expected to leave next week for Fort Hood, Texas for two months of training, followed by a year long deployment to the Middle East in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom...more |
| Officials Explain Mason County Jail Millage |
|
Voters in Mason County will be asked to approve an operational millage for the county jail when they go to the polls on January 15th. During a forum last night, County Board Chairman Tom Posma said it's a ...more |
| Local Unemployment Rates Increase In November |
| Unemployment rates increased in every local county during November. According to data released yesterday, Mason County's unemployment rose from 6...more |
| First Baby of New Year Born In Manistee |
| The first baby born in 2008 at West Shore Medical Center in Manistee arrived early Wednesday morning. Braylen Zimmerman was born at 4:53am on Wednesday...more |
| WSCC Graduate Takes Job At CMU |
| A man who graduated from West Shore Community College has been hired as the new director of University Health Services at Central Michigan University. James Barker obtained a nursing degree from West Shore and went on to work at several hospitals in the south...more |
| Obama & Huckabee Winners In Iowa |
| Democrat Barack Obama and Republican Mike Huckabee will campaign in New Hampshire today following their big wins in last night's Iowa caucuses. Mitt Romney finished second among Republicans and John Edwards and Hillary Clinton rounded out the Democratic ticket...more |
| More Problems For Britney Spears |
| Britney Spears has left her Los Angeles home in an ambulance following a dispute over the custody of her two young children. Spears turned over her two sons to ex-husband Kevin Federline before being loaded into the ambulance...more |
| Man Charged In Fatal Accident Which Killed Teacher |
| A Benzie County man was arraigned yesterday in District Court on charges stemming from a traffic accident that killed a Benzie Central School Teacher. 28-year-old John Burchett of Thompsonville is charged with operating while intoxicated causing death and driving on a suspended license causing death...more |
| Manistee Soldiers Deploy Today For Iraq |
| The Manistee Armory was full during a deployment ceremony Saturday for the Bravo Troop 126 Cavalry Squadron. Several guest speakers, including Congressman Pete Hoekstra, talked about the history of the regiment and a safe trip back home after their year long deployment...more |
| 54-Degrees In January! New Record High |
| Record high temps were set yesterday across West Michigan. At the Mason County Airport in Ludington, the high Sunday reached 54-degrees, which broke the previous record of 45 set in 1965...more |
| Local Gas Prices Increase By More Than A Dime |
| Local gas prices are up by more than a dime from start of last week. Triple-A Michigan says the average today for a gallon of self serve regular unleaded in Ludington is $3...more |
| Income Survey Being Conducted In Ludington |
| About 700 residents in the City of Ludington will be receiving a survey to help the city obtain current household income data. The surveys are being mailed this week to random city residents...more |
| Police Investigate Traffic Accident In Benzie County |
| Benzie County Sheriff's Deputies are investigating an accident that happened just before 10pm Sunday. It happened on US-31 near Reynolds Road when 37-year-old Jeffrey Zeno allegely crossed the centerline and collided with a westbound vehicle driven by 31-year-old Virginia Brouillet of Interlochen...more |
| Two Manistee Murder Cases Remain Open |
| Police in Manistee continue to investigate two murders that happened in late 2007. Manistee Police chief Dave Bachman says they are still awaiting DNA results in the murder of 75-year-old Betty Davis...more |
| Scottville Considers New Snow Removal Ordinance |
| The first reading of a new snow removal ordinance was heard during last night's Scottville City Council meeting. If approved following a second reading, the ordinance will make it a civil infraction for failing to shovel sidewalks...more |
| Report Given On Scottville's Main St. Program |
| A progress report on the Main Street program in Scottville was presented to the city commission last night. Main Street Manager Brittney Hoszkiw said a work plan is currently being established...more |
| Castonia Appointed Ludington Mayor Pro-Tem |
| Ludington City Council took care of some housekeeping items for 2008 during its meeting last night. Councilor Gary Castonia was appointed the Mayor Pro-Tem...more |
| 2008 State Park Passes & Campsite Available |
| The DNR is reminding campers that reservations are currently being accepted for the 2008 summer season at all state parks, including at the 355 camp sites at the Ludington State Park. Campers are urged to make their reservations now to secure a campsite...more |
| Comcast Cable Closing Public Access Studios |
| Comcast Cable is closing its public access production studios at all of its nine locations across the state. Comcast Spokeswoman Louise Beller says the company is consolidating its studios to one location in South Haven, however it won't impact the programming on the local access channels, such as Channel 2 in Manistee...more |
| Manistee City Council To Discuss Strategic Plan |
| Manistee City Council will discuss the city's strategic plan during a work session at seven o'clock tonight at the city hall. In December, the council held a work session regarding the plan and obtained public comments...more |
| New Hampshire Presidential Primary Today |
| Tuesday Search Turns Up No Clues On Missing Man |
| A state police dive team spent most of Tuesday searching Pere Marquette Lake for 27-year-old Gabe Smith of Ludington. Smith was last seen leaving a bar in downtown Ludington at about 2am on December 8th...more |
| Manistee Tribe Wants To Build Casino In Muskegon |
| The Little River Band of Ottawa Indians is exploring the possibility of building a casino in downtown Muskegon. The tribe already operates the Little River Casino in Manistee...more |
| Court Dates Set For Ludington Murder Suspects |
| Court dates have been set for four men accused of killing a Ludington man in November. 35-year-old William Cockream of Jackson and 22-year-old Donquez Haynes of Grand Rapids will appear in Mason County Circuit Court for final conferences on February 5th...more |
| Hart State Police Post Merges With Grand Haven |
| The Hart State Police Post in Oceana County has merged with the Grand Haven Post. As part of a realignment, all administrative operations in Hart were shifted to Grand Haven on the first of the year...more |
| Posma Reappointed County Board Chairman |
| Mason County Board of Commissioners yesterday passed a resolution to adopt a monthly 9-1-1 surcharge within the county. The resolution allows the county to collect a monthly surcharge of $2...more |
| Trial Set For Motorist Who Killed Bicyclist |
| A trial date has been set for a Wexford County man who allegedly struck and killed a bicyclist in September. Police say 35-year-old Chad Nickoloff struck and killed 53-year-old John Weber of Shelby Township on M-55 near Wellston on Sepember 22nd...more |
| Life EMS Going Strong After Two Years of Service |
| It's been two years since Life EMS took over as the ambulance provider in Mason County and it's been a good run so far, according to Operations Manager Kraig Dodge. Dodge says there have been no major problems and the business climate has been very good...more |
| Chamber CEO Attending National Conference |
| The President and CEO of the Ludington & Scottville Chamber of Commerce is attending a leadership certification program this week with the United States Chamber. Becca Martin is taking part in the intensive week-long leadership training with the Institute for Organizational Management...more |
| Clinton & McCain Winners In New Hampshire |
| New Hampshire's big winners are gearing up for the next stops on the race to the White House. Democratic upset winner Hillary Clinton will meet with her advisers to discuss strategy today...more |
| Presidential Candidates Begin Campaigning In MI |
| NOW THAT THE NEW HAMPSHIRE PRESIDENTIAL PRIMARY IS OVER, THE CANDIDATES BEGIN STUMPING FOR VOTES IN MICHIGAN TODAY (WEDNESDAY).
JOHN MCCAIN WILL BEGIN THE DAY ATTENDING A TOWN HALL MEETING THIS MORNING AT GERALD R...more |
| Antiques Roadshow Coming To Grand Rapids |
| IT'S TIME TO DUST OFF THE ANTIQUES BECAUSE THE P-B-S TELEVISION PROGRAM "ANTIQUES ROADSHOW" IS COMING TO GRAND RAPIDS THIS SUMMER.
"ANTIQUES ROADSHOW" GIVES PEOPLE THE OPPORTUNITY TO HAVE THEIR ANTIQUE POSSESSIONS APPRAISED BY THE EXPERTS...more |
| Bear Lake Man Arrested On Child Porn Charges |
| A Manistee County man has been arrested on child pornography charges. 37-year-old James Leckrone of Bear Lake was arrested by State Police after receiving a tip last week from a concerned citizen...more |
| Webster Retiring As KND / Bear Lake Superintendent |
| The Superintendent of the Kaleva-Norman-Dickson School District in Manistee County has submitted his resignation. Greg Webster plans to retire at the end of the current school year after serving the past 18 years as superintendent at KND...more |
| Embezzlement Suspect Waives Arraignment |
| A woman who police believe embezzled hundreds of thousands of dollars from a local business has waived her arraignment in Mason County Circuit Court. 70-year-old Alice Clark allegedly embezzled more than $300-thousand from McCormick Sawmills in Fountain over a period of five years while she worked as the company's bookkeeper...more |
| Manistee Chamber Hires Transition Manager |
| The Manistee Area Chamber of Commerce has hired a transition manager to help implement a new chamber strategy. Steve Morris from the firm of Crider and Morris Communications will serve as the transition manager...more |
| Manistee Schools Will Address Aging Buildings |
| Members of the Manistee School Board met on Wednesday for a short meeting and listened to several goals from the Superintendent. Superintendent Bob Olson said that he would like to see the district create more community education programs, recreational inter mural activities that includes upper level classes for students to prepare for college...more |
| Group Wants To Replace Historic Veterans Memorial |
| The Mason County Allied Veterans Council is hoping to replace a monument which, at one time, was displayed on the front lawn of the Mason County Courthouse.
Ron Martin, the president of the Allied Veterans Council, says a concrete monument honoring soldiers from WWI and WWII used to sit on the courthouse lawn...more |
| USDA Purchasing 8-Million lbs. of Red Tart Cherries |
| Scottville Student Nominated For Air Force Academy |
| A student from Mason County Central High School has been nominated by Congressman Pete Hoekstra for acceptance into the US Air Force Academy. Bethany Wyman of Scottville was among nine students in Hoekstra's district nominated to US Military Service Academies...more |
| LWV Hosting Immigration Policy Forum In Onekama |
| The League of Women Voters of Manistee County will take up the issue of reaching a consensus on immigration policy during a forum tonight in Onekama. The forum is in preparation to fulfill a National League of Women Voters consensus...more |
| Rerouting Of North Country Trail Discussed Tonight |
| A meeting is being held tonight in Manistee to give a progress report on the proposed re-routing of the North Country Trail. Officials are working to establish eight new miles of off-road trail near the Hodenpyl Dam Pond and the village of Mesick...more |
| Petitions Available For School Board Candidates |
| Petitions are currently available at the Mason County Clerk's Office for anyone wishing to run for their local school board. Ludington, Mason County Central and Mason County Eastern all have two 4-year terms available during the May 6th election and Free Soil has one 4-year-term...more |
| Snowfall Totals From Winter Storm |
SNOWFALL TOTALS
FROM THE NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE IN GRAND RAPIDS
Scottville: 5.5 inches
Ludington: 5 inches
Custer: 3 inches
Hart: 5...more |
| Sewer System May Be Created In Bear Lake |
| Officials in Bear Lake Township continue to explore the possibility of adding a sanitary sewer system to local homes. Most residents currently use septic systems, however the township says a sewer system is necessary to address the growing population around Bear Lake...more |
| Hoekstra Believes Delegates Will Be Seated |
| Candidates continue to campaign in Michigan as the presidential primary is just four days away. Several Republicans have been in the state this week, however Democrats have been scarce...more |
| West Shore Bank Opening New Office In Manistee |
| West Shore Bank is building a second branch office in Manistee. Bank President and CEO Tom Van Buren says West Shore has purchased the former Movie Gallery building on Cypress Street...more |
| Recycling Forums Being Held In Manistee |
|
Eight community meetings have been scheduled by the Alliance for Economic Success to gather information, opinions and recommendations to help identify options and opportunities and establish objectives for the future of recycling in Manistee County. The results of the community forums will be used to guide plans aimed at meeting community recycling objectives...more |
| Man Dies During Accident At House of Flavors |
| The Mason County Sheriff's Office says a man died early this morning at the House of Flavors freezing facility on Pere Marquette Highway. Investigators say the man died after being pinned between a loading dock and a semi truck at about 6:30am...more |
| Ludington Hospital Has New Strategic Plan |
| Last spring, Memorial Medical Center in Ludington kicked off a strategic planning process to redefine the Medical Center's mission, vision and guiding principals as well as establish organizational priorities for the two years. The new mission of the hospital is “to enhance life through exceptional health care...more |
| Glens Market Receives Health Certification |
| Glen's Market in Manistee has achieved Shop Fresh Supermarket Certification from the public health and safety organization, NSF International. The certification shows that Glen's Market is in compliance with food safety standards and helps improve the quality and shelf life of perishables...more |
| Triple-A Michigan Reports Gas Prices Are Falling |
| Motorists are finding some relief at the gas pumps this week. Triple-A Michigan says the statewide average is down by 13-cents a gallon to $3...more |
| Romney Leading In Latest Polls |
| Recent polls suggest that former Massachusetts governor and Michigan native Mitt Romney could win his first major state on Tuesday.
The Detroit Free Press-Local 4 poll shows Romney leading Arizona senator John McCain among Michigan primary voters, 27- percent to 22- percent, with Mike Huckabee in third at 16-percent...more |
| Comcast Wants To Move Local Access Channels |
| A US District Court today will consider a request by officials to block Comcast's planned move of local access channels. Comcast Cable said last month it will move those channels from the lower tiers of your cable box to the 900 range and some local governments want to block the plan, that the lawsuit claims would affect 500-thousand customers statewide...more |
| Voters Head To Polls Today In Primary Election |
| Voters are headed to the polls today in Michigan's Presidential Primary. Mason County Clerk Jim Riffle says it is a closed primary, meaning voters will have to declare a party when they get to their polling location...more |
| Voter Turnout Expected To Be Light |
| Michigan officials are predicting about 1 of every five registered voters will take part in today's presidential primary in the state. That means some 1...more |
| Two Injured During Accident On US-31 In Manistee |
| Two people were taken to the hospital following an accident Monday morning in Manistee County. State Police Sgt...more |
| Federal Gas Tax May Be Going Up |
| WASHINGTON (AP) - A report out today might mean that gasoline costs could go even higher. A government transportation commission is recommending federal gas taxes be raised by as much as 40 cents a gallon over five years...more |
| 3 Injured During Accident On US-10 In Mason Co. |
| Three people were injured during an accident yesterday morning on US-10 near Gordon Road. Mason County Sheriff's Deputies say the accident happened at about 10:40am Monday when a vehicle traveling east on US-10 near Gordon Road lost control and crossed the centerline striking a westbound vehicle...more |
| Pentwater Woman Facing Charges After Accident |
| A 31-year-old Pentwater woman faces charges following a two car accident on US-10 near the Wildwood Meadows Apartments in Ludington at 7:40am Monday....more |
| Scottville Woman Injured During Single Car Crash |
| A 37-year-old Scottville woman was injured during a single vehicle accident on Stiles Road near Hansen just after noon Monday. Mason County Sheriff's Deputies say the roads were icy and it was snowing when the woman lost control of her car and hit a tree...more |
| Romney Wins Michigan Presidential Primary |
| IT WAS A BIG NIGHT FOR FORMER MASSACHUSETTS GOVERNOR AND MICHIGAN NATIVE MITT ROMNEY LAST NIGHT WHO WON THE STATE'S REPUBLICAN PRESIDENTIAL PRIMARY. ROMNEY GARNERED ABOUT 39-PERCENT OF THE VOTE COMPARED TO U-S SENATOR JOHN MCCAIN'S 30-PERCENT...more |
| Locally, the Mason County Jail millage proposal passed 2,437 to 2,118. In Oceana County, Shelby Village Trustee Andrea Garcia was recalled by an overwhelming margin and Andrew Morse was elected Shelby Village President...more |
| Lake Michigan Water Levels Near Record Low |
|
Lake Michigan water levels are near record lows. National Weather Service Meteorologist Nathan Jeruzal told WZZM-TV in Grand Rapids that the lake is only a foot away from the record low set in 1964...more |
| Ludington Chamber Announces Board Members |
| The Ludington and Scottville Chamber of Commerce and Convention and Visitors Bureau has announced its 2008 board of directors. Board Chairman Jeff Evans says the board makeup in 2008 is diverse and strong...more |
| Mason County Central School Board Honored |
| The Mason County Central School Board met this week was honored this week for their time and commitment to the students and staff of the school district. January is School Board Appreciation Month...more |
| Great Radio Auction Less Than A Month Away |
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Final preparations are being made to the 12th annual Great Radio Auction. The popular auction is coming up February 14th, 15th and 16th on all five stations owned and operated by Lake Michigan Broadcasting...more |
| Nickerson Inn Property May Be Developed |
| The former Nickerson Inn property in Pentwater is being proposed for development. The inn was destroyed during a fire last May...more |
| Community Pool Plans Approved In Manistee |
| A management plan for the community swimming pool in Manistee was approved last night. Under the agreement, the city will pay $40-thousand per year to help the school district maintain the pool...more |
| Local Lawmakers Voted Often In 2007 |
| Local lawmakers had some of the best voting records in the state in 2007 according to MichiganVotes.org...more |
| Hoekstra Talks About Destruction Of CIA Tapes |
| CAPITOL HILL (AP) - A top Republican says the CIA official who approved the destruction of interrogation videotapes went against the direction of his bosses. That's what Michigan Congressman Peter Hoekstra told reporters today after a closed-door meeting of the House Intelligence Committee...more |
| P.M. Township Raises Water & Sewer Rates |
| The Pere Marquette Township Board of Trustees approved rate increases for both water and sewer fees last night. According to engineering and auditor reports, the new fee structures are necessary to keep from falling behind the cost of services and equipment costs offered to township residents...more |
| Students Cutting Ribbon At WSCC Campus Center |
| The spring semester starts today at West Shore Community College and students will mark the beginning of the semester by cutting the ribbon at the new Campus Center. The 38-thousand-square-foot building is home to a new library and other services to support student learning...more |
| Extremely Cold Temps Expected This Weekend |
| Bitter cold temperates are expected over the next several days with highs only in the teens and lows dipping into single digits with windchills 10-to-15 degrees below zero. Dr...more |
| Police Looking For Missing Oceana County Man |
| State Police in Oceana County are asking for help from the public in locating a man who has been missing since last summer. 22-year-old Seferino Alaniz, Jr...more |
| Downtown Scottville Goes Wireless |
| Downtown Scottville has gone wireless thanks to a donation to the Scottville Main Street program by T-One Internet. Main Street Manager Brittney Hoszkiw says anyone with wireless capabilities will be able to connect to the internet anywhere in the Main Street District which runs along Main Street from James to First Streets...more |
| Ludington Landmark Closing Its Doors |
| Today marks the end of era for a downtown Ludington landmark. Fifth-Third Bank will be closing its office on South James Street at five o'clock tonight...more |
| College Campus Center Being Dedicated Saturday |
| A public open house and dedication ceremony will be held tomorrow afternoon for the new Campus Center at West Shore Community College. Yesterday, students cut the ribbon on the 38-thousand-square-foot building, which is home to a new library and other services to support student learning...more |
| 100 Resident Attend Meeting About Swimming Pool |
| Close to 100 Manistee residents attended last night's meeting at the High School concerning the Community Swimming Pool. An animated 3-D design of the facility was shown so everyone got a picture of what the project will look like once completed...more |
| Special Olympics Hockey Game This Weekend |
| A major fundraiser for Area 24 Special Olympics will be held on Saturday at the Ice Arena at West Shore Community College. Jeff Bidelman of Area 24 serving Manistee, Mason and Lake Counties says when people come out to support this event the athletes can continue to compete...more |
| Man Arrested For Break-In At Brethren High School |
| A man suspected in a 2006 break-in at Brethren High School has been arrested. 19-year-old Thomas Michaels of Goodrich turned himself in to Manistee County Sheriff's Office after police notified his mother that he was wanted for the crime...more |
| Men Arrested For Break-In At Catholic Church |
| Two men were arrested Friday for allegedly breaking in to the Guardian Angels Catholic Church Rectory in Manistee. Police said a man sleeping in the rectory heard glass breaking and people inside the building...more |
| City Continues To Seek Coast Guard Property |
| The City of Ludington has received notification from the federal government that they are directing the National Park Service to prepare a deed to convey the Coast Guard property on Olmstead Street to the City. The city intends to create a passive park on the ...more |
| WSCC Campus Center Dedicated |
| For the first time in five years, West Shore Community College on Saturday dedicated a new building. The 38-thousand-square-foot Campus Center is home to a new library, book store, student services office and the Women's Resource Center...more |
| Ludington Police Release 2007 Annual Report |
| The Ludington Police Department has released its annual report for 2007. Police Chief Mark Barnett (pictured on left) says officers responded to 6,966 calls for service last year, which was down by about four-percent...more |
| Gas prices have fallen below three-dollars a gallon. Triple-A Michigan says the statewide average today is $2...more |
| Hoekstra's Website Wins Silver Mouse Award |
| Congressman Pete Hoekstra's website has won the 2007 Silver Mouse Award. The honor is handed out by the Congressional Management Foundation for having one of the best websites in Congress...more |
| Today Is Martin Luther King Day |
| Today is the federal holiday honoring Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr...more |
| Nickerson Inn Property Topic Of Tonight's Meeting |
| A large crowd is expected at the Pentwater Planning Commission meeting tonight. The commission will discuss a zoning amendment request which would allow for a multi-family housing development to be built on the former site of the Nickerson Inn (pictured on left)...more |
| Ludington Schools Discuss Goals |
| The Ludington School Board last night laid out its strategic planning goals. Superintendent Cal DeKuiper says the top three goals are to establish longterm financial stability, to promote the highest educational standards possible and increase the positive promotion of the Ludington School Distrcit and its students...more |
| Scottville Amends Parks and Rec. Plan |
| The Scottville City Commission approved several amendment to the Parks and Recreation Master Plan. City Manager Amy Hansen says the amendments include improvements to several sites including developing the old landfill into a recreational site and purchasing the Henry Landing Campground...more |
| Ludington City Council Approves Breakwater Grant |
| During a meeting held at the high school yesterday, the Ludington City Council approved a grant agreement for the proposed Loomis Street breakwater. Mayor John Henderson says its the first step in connecting the Loomis Breakwall...more |
| Longtime Ludington School Employee Retiring |
| A longtime fixture at the Ludington School District has announced that she's retiring. Phyllis Cox has been spent the past 40 years working as the secretary to the superintendent...more |
| $1,395 Raised For Special Olympics |
| Area 24 Special Olympic teams in Mason, Manistee and Lake Counties were the real winners in this past weekends benefit Hockey game. The Oaks Correctional Facility defeated Gordy's Skate Company 7-4 on Saturday in the Annual Fundraiser...more |
| WSCC Board Meets Under Light Agenda |
| Under an extremely light agenda, the West Shore Community College Board of Trustees yesterday were energized by presentations given by several instructors and students involved in the college's Workforce Development Program. Uplifting and inspiring glimpses of the actual workings of West Shore Community College could not be more rewarding to College President Chuck Dillon (pictured on left) who said the most important lesson learned is that of engagement by the college with its students...more |
| Nickerson Inn Property Debate Draws Large Crowd |
| A large crowd attended a joint meeting last night of the Pentwater Village and Pentwater Township Planning Commissions for a public hearing regarding the rezoning of the former Nickerson Inn property. The inn burned down last May and the owner, Harry Shiparski is requesting the property be rezoned to allow for a multi-family development...more |
| Smoke Prompts Evacuation At Benzie County Jail |
| Prisoners at the Benzie County Jail had to be evacuated from their cells early Tuesday morning after the jail starting filling up with smoke. The Benzonia Township and Frankfort Fire Departments responded to the scene just after 1am and determined a motor in a rooftop heating unit had burned out, causing the smoke to enter the jail...more |
| Hospital ER Wait Times On The Rise |
| A new study shows that waiting times in hospital emergency rooms are on the rise. According to a Harvard study, the average waiting time for emergency care has climbed by 36-percent from 22 minutes to 30 minutes...more |
| United Way of Mason County Exceeds Goal |
| The United Way of Mason County has exceeded its annual fundraising goal. Executive Director Lynne Russell says they raised $386,000, surpassing their goal of $385,000...more |
| $10-Million Expansion At Crystal Mountain Resort |
| Crystal Mountain Resort in Thompsonville is about to embark on a $10-million expansion that will include a full service spa, new slope-side residences and Michigan's only alpine slide. The projects are part of Crystal Mountain's master plan...more |
| Recycling Forum Tonight In Bear Lake |
| A forum to discuss the future of recycling in Manistee County is being held tonight at the Bear Lake Township Hall. The meeting will start at 7pm and is intended to provide insight for any future efforts to strengthen, expand or make better use of recycling options in the county...more |
| USDA Holding Grant Forum In Oceana County |
| The USDA is holding a meeting next week in Oceana County to go over the Value Added Producer Grant program for farmers. Specialists from the USDA will discuss eligibility criteria, the application and evaluation process, matching funds and other requirements that must be met, as well as resources that are available to help develop a grant application...more |
| Fifth-Third Bank Reports 4Q Loss |
| Fifth Third Bank says fourth-quarter earnings were down 42% from a year ago, mainly because of a charge for future litigation and for costs associated with acquiring RG Crown. Cincinnati-based Fifth Third does business in Michigan, with branch offices in Ludington and Hart...more |
| Lake Effect Snow Advisory In Effect |
| A LAKE EFFECT SNOW ADVISORY REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 1 PM EST THURSDAY.
LAKE EFFECT SNOW IS EXPECTED TO INTENSIFY DURING THE DAY TODAY AND PERSIST INTO THE DAY ON THURSDAY...more |
| Arrests Made In Benzie County Break-Ins |
| The Benzie County Sheriff's Office is investigating a series of breaking and entering which recently happened around Crystal Lake. After conducting a search warrant, a Frankfort man was arrested for the crimes...more |
| Manistee May Build New Elementary School |
| Officials in the Manistee School District are looking into the idea of building a new elementary school. Superintendent Bob Olson told the school board last night that a bond proposal would have to be placed on the ballot in order for the plans to proceed...more |
| Bear Lake Sewer Project Turned Down |
| The Bear Lake Township Board has voted against a proposed sewer project which would have added a sanitary sewer system to local homes. Most residents currently use septic systems, however township officials said a sewer system was needed to address the growing population around Bear Lake...more |
| Killips Drops Out Of US Congress Race |
| A casino slot supervisor from Manistee has dropped out of the race for Republican Pete Hoekstra's seat in the U.S...more |
| Pollock Considered For President Of Illinois College |
| The Vice President of Student Services at West Shore Community College is one of five people being considered for president of Illinois Valley Community College. Kevin Pollock of Ludington has been with West Shore Community College for the past seven years...more |
| Chamber Official Appointed To State Committee |
| The vice president of the Ludington and Scottville Chamber of Commerce has been appointed to the programming committee of the Michigan Chamber of Commerce Executives. Kathy Maclean says she looks forward to serving on the committee, which is a professional development organization for chamber of commerce professionals...more |
| Child Porn Suspect Bound Over For Trial |
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A Manistee County man arrested earlier this month on child pornography charges had his case bound over to Circuit Court for trial. 37-year-old James Leckrone of Bear Lake was arrested after police discovered several graphic photos of underage children inside his home and on his personal computers...more |
| Digital TV Transition Set For February 2009 |
| In just over a year, the federal government will mandate that all television broadcasting be transmitted in a digital format only. There's lots of confusion among TV watchers as to what that means for them...more |
| Drunk Driver Remanded To District Court |
| A Manistee man charged in a fatal drunk driving accident had his case remanded back to District Court for additional charges. 33-year-old Billy Joe Hansen was expected to stand trial at the end of the month on charges of operating while intoxicated causing death and operating on a suspended license causing death...more |
| Barge Breaking Ice Today On Pere Marquette Lake |
| Dow Chemical is cautioning ice fishermen on Pere Marquette Lake in Ludington that a barge will be cutting through the ice this afternoon. The exact time of arrival for the barge is variable due to weather conditions...more |
| Edward Jones Among Top Companies To Work For |
| Fortune Magazine has listed Edward Jones as the fourth best company to work for. The investment agency has offices in Ludington, Scottville and Manistee...more |
| Fire Destroys Home In Amber Township |
| Several area fire departments were called to a fire in Mason County's Amber Township last night. It happened at about 10pm Thursday at the home of Bill Craft at 3100 First Street...more |
| Manistee Man Arrested During Drug Bust |
| A man was arrested yesterday morning after the SSCENT Narcotics Team raided a home in the City of Manistee. Investigators found cocaine, marijuana and weapons inside the home at 471 First Street...more |
| Investigation Complete Regarding State Police Trooper |
| The Manistee State Police Post has wrapped up an internal investigation regarding a trooper who hosted an underage drinking party at his home last summer. The findings of the investigation have been forwarded to the State Police Internal Affairs department in Lansing...more |
| Oceana County Men Arrested For Muskegon Robbery |
| Two Oceana County men have been arrested in connection with an armed robbery that happened Monday afternoon in Muskegon Heights. 30-year-old Jason James of Hesperia and 28-year-old Keith Fox of Shelby are charged with armed robbery and felony firearm...more |
| Minor Injuries During Crash At US-31 / County Line Rd. |
| One person suffered minor injuries during a two-vehicle accident yesterday morning at US-31 and County Line Road in Manistee County. Officials at the Manistee State Police Post say the accident caused US-31 to be shut down for a short time Thursday morning as crews worked to get the damaged cars off the roadway...more |
| Betsie Bay Inn Earns Green Lodging Certification |
| The Betsie Bay Inn, located in Frankfort, has earned Green Lodging Certification from the state Department of Labor and Economic Growth. The Betsie Bay Inn has implemented several environmental initiatives such as offering a towel and linen refuse program, using safe cleaning products and using Energy Start lighting and equipment...more |
| Home Sales Drop 13-Percent During 2007 |
| The sale of existing single-family homes plunged 13 percent last year, the biggest drop in 25 years, according to the National Association of Realtors. The troubled housing market is nothing new to Michigan, but homeowners are asking when the market will be turning around...more |
| Warrant Arrests Made At Greenwood Apt. In Ludington |
| Mason County Sheriff's Deputies were called to the Greenwood Apartments in Ludington Thursday morning for a man who was seen in the area with a gun. The investigation led to the arrests of two people who had outstanding warrants out of Muskegon County...more |
| State Backs Manistee Brownfield Project |
| The state is backing a brownfield redevelopment project along the Lake Michigan shoreline. American Materials will relocate a material depot and transfer station for construction materials in Manistee to an abandoned and contaminated site, opening up the city's riverfront for new development...more |
| Manistee Drug Suspect Formally Charged |
| A Manistee man arrested last week by the Sscent Narcotics Team has been arraigned on felony charges in Manistee County District Court. 22-year-old Corey Davis is charged with possession of narcotics, maintaining a drug house and felony weapons possession...more |
| Local Unemployment Rates Increase In December |
| Unemployment rates increased in 13 of Michigan's 17 regional labor markets in December. According to data released Friday, Mason County's unemployment went from 8...more |
| Hoekstra's Bill Addresses Unemployment Woes |
| Congressman Pete Hoekstra Friday introduced legislation that would provide states with unemployment rates starting at 25 percent above the national average with greater flexibility in their use of federal dollars for job training programs. Hoekstra says Michigan could soon lose its status as the only state experiencing an economic recession...more |
| Local Gas Prices Above State Average |
| Gas prices in Ludington and Manistee are above the statewide average. According to Triple-A Michigan, the average for a gallon of regular unleaded in Ludington and Manistee today is $3...more |
| Winter Storm Warning In Effect |
| WINTER STORM WARNING IN EFFECT FROM 7 PM THIS EVENING TO 12 PM
EST WEDNESDAY....more |
| Bush Delivers Final State of Union Address |
| President Bush delivered his eight and final State of the Union address last the night. Interrupted 72 times by applause, the State of the Union was short on major proposals, focus in large part on the need to pass a package to give the economy a boost...more |
| Gov. Granholm Delivers State of State Tonight |
| Governor Jennifer Granholm delivers her State of the State address this evening from the House floor. Granholm will outline her agenda for 2008, and she's expected to focus on education and economic development...more |
| Michigan Among Hardest Hit In Foreclosures |
| New housing numbers are out this morning and the hits just keep on comin'. U...more |
| WSCC Offering Free Bus Rides To Campus |
| As the spring semester at West Shore Community College continues, college officials remind students that free rides to and from campus are available. Anyone traveling from Ludington, Manistee or Scottville can take the college bus service free of charge...more |
| Scottville Hopes To Improve Building Facades |
| The City of Scottville is about to embark on a program to help maintain and enhance the city's historic integrity. As part of the Michigan Main Street program, Scottville will be working with designers to help business owners with improvements to the outside of their buildings...more |
| Manistee Approves Development Agreement |
| The Development Agreement between Seng Dock and Trucking, Seng Properties, Edward Seng and Rieth-Riley Construction was approved at a special Manistee City Council meeting. The agreement will allow for a new development extension, and expansion of the Manistee County Renaissance Zone...more |
| MCC Schools Receive Construction Update |
| At last night's Mason County Central School Board meeting, Dan Lamore of the Christman Company explained that they are finished with all of the projects which are coming out of the school's bond money. There's still about $25-thousand left in the contingency fund...more |
| Recycling Meeting Tonight In Manistee |
| The last of eight community forums regarding the future of recycling in Manistee County will be held tonight at the Filer Township Hall. The information gathered tonight will provide insight for future efforts to strengthen, expand or make better use of recycling opportunities in Manistee County...more |
| Hoekstra Says Crossing Border Won't Be Easty |
| Congressman Pete Hoekstra does not expect a smooth transition into requiring more documentation for travel into Canada and Mexico. The Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative begins Thursday...more |
| Manistee Art Institute Holds Annual Meeting |
| The Manistee Art Institute held their Annual meeting last night at the Tuscan Grill. President Sue Wilson outlined the past years events and touched on the 2008 season with a spring show with artist Carol Marshall, a possible show during the Forest Festival and student show in December...more |
| Tanker Truck Explodes In Manistee County |
| A tanker truck exploded while being repaired last night at the Wellston Lube and Repair on Caberfae Highway in Manistee County. State Police say a Fischer LP Gas Truck was being repaired when it caught on fire and exploded at about 6:40pm Tuesday...more |
| Planners Meet Tonight Regarding Nickerson Inn |
| The Pentwater Village Planning Commission will meet tonight to discuss a rezoning request, which would allow for a multi-family housing unit on the site of the former Nickerson Inn. The planning commission meets at 7pm tonight at the village hall...more |
| Police Investigate Armed Robbery In Lake County |
| The Lake County Sheriff's Office is investigating an armed robbery that happened Monday morning in Pleasant Plains Township. Investigators say two black men broke into a home on Esther Street, tied up the homeowners and stole several items...more |
| Congress Passes Economic Stimulus Package |
| Congress passed an economic stimulus package yesterday. West Michigan Congressman Pete Hoekstra says the bipartisan stimulus package will help in the short term, but Congress needs to work for long-term stability...more |
| Adult Learning Classes Being Offered At WSCC |
| West Shore Community College will be offering an Adult Lifelong Learning Program starting next month. The program is a non-credit continuing education program for adults with classes offered in a wide variety of subjects including local, national and world history, religion and self improvement, science, health, music, art, nature and financial management to name a few...more |
| State Main St. Group In Scottville This Week |
| The state Main Street group will be in Scottville for the next couple of days. Main Street Manager Brittney Hoszkiw says the group will be conducting training seminars for the Four Main Street Committees...more |
| 211 Access Line Established In Mason & Oceana Co. |
| The Michigan Public Service Commission Tuesday designated Community Access Line of the Lakeshore as the 2-1-1 information and referred answering point for Mason and Oceana Counties. The 2-1-1 number has been designed by the FCC to allow callers to reach community resource and referral answering points...more |
| Recreation Forum Today In Manistee County |
| Open houses are being held today and tomorrow to gather input on the five-year recreation plan in Manistee County.
Today's open house is from 4pm to 7pm at Brethren High School...more |
| Weather Causes Numerous Closings |
| Blizzard conditions have caused numerous school closings, business cancelations and other postponements today. Wind chills have approached -25 degrees...more |
| Scottville Woman Injured During Accident |
| A 56-year-old Scottville woman received minor injuries during a single vehicle accident yesterday afternoon. The Mason County Sheriff's Office says the woman was driving on Maple Road near Emerson Lake Road when her vehicle left the roadway and rolled over at 1:45pm Tuesday...more |
| Deputy Involved In Accident With Semi Truck |
| An asphalt truck overturned on a Benzie County roadway yesterday morning, causing the road to be closed for several hours. The accident happened just after 11am on Reynolds Road near Sanford Lake Road...more |
| Blood Drive Today In Ludington |
| A blood drive is being held today at Memorial Medical Center in Ludington. The Red Cross says winter shortages have been as severe as 15 to 20 percent below desired levels...more |
| Muskegon Police Find Body In Snow Bank |
| Muskegon Police believe a man whose body was found in a snow bank died of exposure to wintry weather. A morning commuter noticed the body in a snow drift Wednesday morning...more |
| Traffic Lights Changing In Michigan |
| Turn signals are changing in Michigan. Michigan is one of only two states which has flashing red lights for left turns...more |
| Britney Spears Taken To Los Angeles Hospital |
| Police in Los Angeles say Britney Spears have been taken from her house by ambulance.
An officer says the 26-year-old pop star the ambulance took her to, quote, "get help" but doesn't say where or what the nature of her problem was...more |
| IRS Says Beware Of Tax Scams |
| Congress hasn't even approved an economic stimulus package yet, but already the scammers are at work, trying to take advantage of what people may have heard about it.
The Internal Revenue Service says identity thieves are using promises of tax rebates to trick people into revealing financial and personal data...more |
| Correct: Deputy Involved In Accident With Semi Truck |
| A Benzie County Sheriff's Deputy was involved in a traffic accident while assisting a snow plow which had gone off US-31 and into a ditch near the Benzie and Manistee County line. The accident happened just after 9am Wednesday...more |
| Mason County Sheriff Jeff Fiers Takes Office |
| Mason County's new sheriff took office yesterday. Jeff Fiers defeated incumbent Republican Sheriff Laude Hartrum during the November election...more |
| Palsrok May Run For State Senate or Congress |
| The 94th Michigan legislature adjourned for the year last week, marking the end of a six-year career for State Representative David Palsrok of Manistee, who was forced out of office due to term limits. Palsrok says he will miss having the ability to make change and improvements to Michigan...more |
| DNR Approves Manistee Recreation Plan |
| The Michigan Department of Natural Resources has formally approved the Manistee County Recreation Plan. The plan, which runs through 2013, will serve as a guide to improving access to natural resources and recreational facilities while also developing new recreational opportunities...more |
| Muskegon Woman's Death Called Suspicious |
| INVESTIGATORS ARE CALLING THE DEATH OF A 55-YEAR-OLD WOMAN IN MUSKEGON SUSPICIOUS AFTER HER BODY WAS FOUND IN HER HOME ON NEW YEAR'S EVE.
POLICE HAVE MADE AN ARREST IN THE INCIDENT, JAILING A MAN ON DOMESTIC VIOLENCE CHARGES...more |
| Grand Rapids Police Kill New Year's Day Gunman |
| POLICE SHOT AND KILLED A GUNMAN FLEEING A DOWNTOWN GRAND RAPIDS NIGHTCLUB EARLY NEW YEAR'S DAY.
GRAND RAPIDS POLICE AND STATE POLICE TROOPERS ANSWERED A REPORT OF A SHOOTING AT THE LADY GODIVA NIGHTCLUB ABOUT 1:30 THURSDAY MORNING THAT LEFT TWO PEOPLE INJURED...more |
| Freezing Rain Creates Ice; Forces School Closings |
| Freezing rain covered everything in ice Saturday night and Sunday, including roads and sidewalks. The icy conditions prompted area churches to cancel services yesterday, and most area schools have canceled classes for today...more |
| December Snowfall Well Above Average |
| December of 2008 will go down in history as being one of the snowiest Decembers on record. National Weather Service observer Dick Hamilton says more than 54-inches of snow fell in Mason County last month...more |
| Man Leads Police On Chase Through Benzie County |
| Authorities are looking for a man who led police on a high speed chase late last week in Benzie County. Investigators say 34-year-old Eric Mauser of Honor was involved in a pursuit near Thompsonville early Thursday morning...more |
| First Baby Of 2009 Born At Memorial Medical Center |
| The first baby of the New Year in Mason County was born Saturday at Memorial Medical Center in Ludington. Kole Nickelas Damkoehler was born Saturday morning at 10:41am...more |
| Manistee ISD To Offer Online Courses |
| The Manistee Intermeidate School District is among eleven districts in the state that have been given permission to let students take part or all of their required classes online and off campus. It’s an effort to allow students to meet graduation requirements by taking on larger course loads or courses their schools didn’t offer...more |
| Spaniola Takes Over As Mason Co. Prosecutor |
| Mason County's new prosecuting attorney spent his first full day in the office on Friday. Paul Spaniola defeated incumbent Prosecutor Susan Sniegowski during the November election...more |
| Wall Street Opens 2009 On Positive Note |
| Wall Street opened 2009 on a positive note with the Dow Jones gaining 254 points Friday, sending the index over 9-thousand points. Ray Janish of Harborfront Financial Group in Ludington says more volatility in the market can be expected this year...more |
| Posma Reelected Chairman Of Mason County Board |
| After a lengthy process Friday, Tom Posma was reelected chairman of the Mason County Board of Commissioners. The commissioners cast a secret ballot Friday, with five people voting to reelect Posma, and five others voting for commissioner Michael Schneider...more |
| O'Shea Elected Chairman Of Manistee County Board |
| Alan O'Shea was reelected Chairman of the Manistee County Board during their annual organizational meeting on Friday. Glen Lottie was elected vice-chairman...more |
| Rothbury Festival May Be Held Again In 2009 |
| A federal bankruptcy judge has been asked to approve a lease allowing the second Rothbury Music Festival to be held at the Double JJ Ranch and Resort in Oceana County. The judge's approval is needed for a bankruptcy trustee to sign a contract with AEG Live, which co-produced last summer's festival...more |
| Attempted Murder Suspect Facing Federal Charges |
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A Ludington man facing attempted murder charges had his case dropped in Mason County Circuit Court in order for federal charges to be filed. 24-year-old Timothy Palacios, Jr...more |
| Ruling Expected Thursday On Rothbury Music Fest |
| A federal bankruptcy judge has decided to wait until Thursday to make a decision on whether he will approve a lease allowing the second annual Rothbury Music Festival to be held at the Double JJ Ranch and Resort in Oceana County. The judge was originally scheduled to make a ruling on Monday, but the issue was pushed back until Thursday...more |
| Gas Prices Jump 26-Cents To $1.85 / Gallon |
| DEARBORN, Mich. (AP) - AAA Michigan says gasoline prices have risen 26 cents per gallon over the past week to a statewide average of $1...more |
| Real Estate Market Facing Challenging Year |
| 2008 was a rough year for the real estate market and the struggles are continuing into the new year. Mike Cnudde is the broker / owner of Coldwell Banker A...more |
| Scottville Approves Pay Raise For Firefighters |
| The Scottville City Commission last night approved pay raises for firefighters of the Mason County Rural Fire Authority. The increase would bring their hourly rate up to $12 per hour...more |
| Manistee To Consider Reducing City's Deer Herd |
| Manistee City Council tonight will discuss an agreement with the DNR to reduce the city's deer population. The permit would allow city police officers and tribal police to shoot up to 50 deer from public and private land...more |
| Judge Approves Lease For Rothbury Music Fest |
(This is an update to the previous story)
A federal bankruptcy judge has approved a lease, that would allow the second annual Rothbury Music Festival to be held at the Double JJ Ranch and Resort in Oceana County. The judge approved the agreement Monday, which was needed for a bankruptcy trustee to sign a contract with the producer of the event, which will be held over the Fourth of July weekend...more |
| Arrests Made In Ludington Home Invasion |
| Three people have been arrested in connection with a break-in that happened at a home on North Washington Avenue in Ludington. The break-in was reported in September after eleven long guns and several knives were stolen from the home...more |
| Metalworks & Union Meet Today To Discuss Strike |
| Metalworks and the Teamsters Union will meet today to discuss the company's last offer in regards to a contract for the striking employees. The 146 employees went on strike October 29th...more |
| Manistee City Council Votes Against Deer Kill Program |
| The Manistee City Council last night voted against a plan to allow police officers to kill deer up to 50 deer within the city limits in an effort to reduce the city's deer population. Council members had concerns regarding the safety of allowing firearm hunting within city limits, and also expressed doubts that killing just 50 deer per year would solve the city's deer herd problem...more |
| Revenue Sharing Board Receives Money from Tribe |
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The Little River Casino presented the Manistee Local Revenue Sharing Board with a check for more than $968-thousand yesterday. The money is part of the revenue generated from the electronic gaming at the casino and is distributed as grant money as part of the tribe's compact with the state...more |
| First Street Tavern In Manistee Going Out of Business |
| A Manistee bar that's served the community since the end of Prohibition is closing its doors today. A...more |
| First Baby Of 2009 Born In Manistee County |
| The first baby of the New Year was born Monday at West Shore Medical Center in Manistee. Grace Ann Hamilton was born Monday afternoon at 1:23pm...more |
| Local Unemployment Numbers Rise Above 10% |
| Unemployment rates increased in nearly every labor market in the state in November. State officials say stores hired fewer retail workers for the holiday season, while other industries reported larger-than-expected seasonal jobs cuts...more |
| Manistee Fire Dept. Takes Part In Cold Water Training |
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The Manistee Fire Department held a cold water rescue training event yesterday near the Arthur Street Boat Launch on Manistee Lake. Fire Chief Sid Scrimger says the training went well, and prepares firefighters for cold water ice rescues...more |
| Nominations Sought For Citizen of the Year |
| Nominations are currently being accepted for the 2008 Mason County Business Leader and Citizen of the Year Award. Nominations must be turned in to the Ludington and Scottville Chamber of Commerce by March 13th...more |
| Mason County Awarded Emergency Food Funds |
| Mason County has been awarded $30-thousand in federal funding under the Emergency Food and Shelter program. The money will be used to supplement emergency food and shelter programs throughout the county...more |
| Community Policing Meeting Tonight In Manistee Co. |
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A town hall meeting is being held tonight for residents of Northern Manistee County to discuss options for increased police services. Manistee County Sheriff Dale Kowalkowski will discuss and prioritize local law enforcement issues and options for seeking additional funding to improve community policing...more |
| Hoekstra Eager To Work With Obama To Fix Economy |
| President-elect Barack Obama spoke yesterday about the troubled economy and how he intends to fix it. West Michigan Congressman Pete Hoekstra says, for the most part, he agrees with Obama's plan, saying the nation is in dire financial and economic trouble and that Obama wants to work in a bi-partisan way to solve the problem...more |
| Manistee Realtor Named "Realtor of the Year" |
| A Manistee realtor has been named the 2009 Realtor of the Year by the Mason-Oceana-Manistee Board of Realtors. Jean Maloney of Century 21 Boardwalk in Manistee was presented with the award during a recent meeting...more |
| Local Student Nominated For Air Force Academy |
| A student from Manistee County is among 17 students in West Michigan to be nominated by Congressman Pete Hoekstra for acceptance into US Military Service Academies. Seth Schneider of Bear Lake was nominated to attend the Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colorado with the class of 2013...more |
| '08 Was a Great Year ForWest Shore Medical Center |
| West Shore Medical Center says 2008 was a great year for the Manistee hospital. In December, the hospital's new digital mammography system went into operation...more |
| Moonlight Ski Tonight In Manistee |
| The Manistee Cross Country Ski Council is holding its annual moonlight ski open house on Saturday. The open house is from 2pm to 8pm at the Big M Ski Area, located 12 miles east of Manistee off M-55...more |
| Winter Storm Watch In Effect |
| WINTER STORM WATCH REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM THIS EVENING THROUGH TUESDAY EVENING....more |
| Arrest Made In 2007 Hunting Death |
| Police in Oceana County have arrested a man who accidentally shot and killed another man while hunting on Thanksgiving Day of 2007. 37-year-old John Roswell of Hart is charged with a misdemeanor count of careless discharge of a firearm causing death...more |
| Two Men Stabbed During Fight In Oceana County |
| Two men were stabbed after trying to break up a fight between a married couple in Oceana County Friday morning. Police say the husband and wife were fighting at a home in the 58-hundred block of West Hazel Road in Mears when 32-year-old James Riggs and 40-year-old Steven Davis tried breaking up the fight...more |
| Hoekstra Reappointed To Education Committee |
| Congressman Pete Hoekstra has been reappointed to the House Committee on Education and Labor in addition to serving as the top Republican on the House Intelligence Committee. Hoekstra is now third in seniority on the Education and Labor Committee among House Republicans...more |
| Deep Freeze Settles In On Michigan |
| A blast of cold arctic air is expected to create a deep freeze throughout the Midwest. The National Weather Service is predicting highs in the single digits through the end of the week with wind chills at 10-to-15 degrees below zero...more |
| Ludington City Council Met Monday Night |
| The Ludington City Council last night approved the engineering agreements for the transient dock project at the municipal marina and the Loomis Street breakwater project. Construction on both projects is expected to begin in June and should be completed by September...more |
| Road Commission Denied Seat On Rev. Sharing Board |
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The Manistee County Road Commission will not get a seat on the local revenue sharing board. The board, yesterday, selected the city of Manistee to serve as the third eligible unit of government to serve on the board...more |
| Manistee Rec. Hands Out Charles Schoedel Awards |
| The Manistee Recreation Association handed out its annual Charles Schoedel awards last night. The awards recognize outstanding contributions to the recreational quality of life in Manistee County...more |
| Trucks Bring Equipment To MasTech Manufacturing |
| Several semi trucks arrived at MasTech Manufacturing in the Manistee Industrial Park yesterday with parts for the company to begin producing wind energy systems. John Holcomb is with MasTech Manufacturing and says MasTech is expected to create 25 new jobs within the next month with another 40 jobs expected to be created by the end of the year...more |
| Manistee Mounted Patrol Taking Part In Obama Parade |
| Members of the Manistee and Muskegon County Sheriff's Mounted Patrols will have the ride of their lives this month. Four members of each patrol will take part in the inaugural parade for President Barack Obama on January 20th in Washington, DC...more |
| Scripps Begins 1st Term In State House |
| The 95th Michigan Legislature convenes today in Lansing. It marks the first day for newly elected State Representative Dan Scripps of Leeland, who says he has no illusions to the challenges in Lansing...more |
| Hartrum Hired As Isabella County Undersheriff |
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Former Mason County Sheriff Laude Hartrum has been hired to be the undersheriff in Isabella County. Hartrum served four years as sheriff before being defeated in the November election by Jeff Fiers...more |
| Ludington Hospital Partners With Children's Hospital |
| Memorial Medical Center in Ludington has joined the Children's Health Partnership through the Helen DeVos Children's Hospital in Grand Rapids. The alliance of 25 hospitals is designed to enhance healthcare for children throughout the state...more |
| Alzheimers Unit To Be Named After Former Doctor |
| The new alzheimer's unit at Oakview Medical Care Facility in Ludington will be named after the facility's former medical director. The unit, which is scheduled to open in May, will be be called the “Sutter Living Center” in honor of Dr...more |
| PM Twp. Supports US-31 Heritage Route |
| At last night's Pere Marquette Township meeting, the board approved a resolution of support to designate US-31 as a historic heritage route. The city of Ludington and Mason County have approved similar resolutions...more |
| Petitions Available For School Board Elections |
| Petitions are currently available for candidates wishing to run for local school boards. In Mason County, there's four seats up for grabs in the Free Soil School District, one seat in the Ludington School District, three seats at Mason County Central and one seat at Mason County Eastern...more |
| Chamber Scholarship Applications Available |
| The Ludington and Scottville Chamber of Commerce is accepting scholarship applications from area high school seniors for the annual Chamber Scholarship. The
$1-thousand scholarship is awarded to a graduating senior who lives in Mason County and will be attending West Shore Community College in the fall...more |
| Michigan Remains Under Fierce Arctic Cold Front |
| Michigan remains in the grip of a fierce Arctic cold front, and the National Weather Service predicts subzero temperatures will persist into the weekend. Pellston in the northern Lower Peninsula was Michigan's early Thursday cold spot with a 1 a...more |
| Metalworks Strike Enters 11th Week |
| The Metalworks strike in Ludington is entering its 11th week, and 130 union employees remain on the picket line. The workers went on strike October 29th...more |
| Manistee Main St. Director Begins Job |
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Manistee's new Main Street Director has started his new job and was introduced to the public during an open house yesterday. Travis Alden says he's excited to get the Manistee Main Street program up and running...more |
| Scripps & Hansen Sworn In To 95th Legislature |
| The state legislature went back into session yesterday after taking a month off for the holidays. State Representative Goeff Hansen of Hart says lawmakers need to get down to business to work for the better good of the state...more |
| Temperature Remains Bitter Cold |
| Temperatures remain bitter cold with wind chills today expected to reach 20 degrees below zero. The cold and snow has created slippery road conditions...more |
| Ice Fishermen Urged Not To Park On Roadway |
| The Mason County Sheriff's Office will be conducting traffic enforcements this weekend around Wilson Hill Park on Hamlin Lake. The Sheriff's Office says ice fishermen have been parking on Barnhardt Road, which has created a traffic hazard...more |
| Saylor Resigns As Manistee Rec. Director |
| The executive director of the Manistee Recreation Association has submitted her resignation. Sandy Saylor announced that she's leaving the MRA to being a career in nursing...more |
| GVSU Student Deaths Remain "Undetermined" |
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Authorities say the reason for the death of two Grand Valley State University students who were found dead in an outlying area of Northern Muskegon County in November will remain "undetermined."
State police say 20-year old Amber Brown of Montague and 26-year old Douglas Ward of Aiken, South Carolina were found in their vehicle in a wooded area northeast of Montague with two charcoal grills burning on the back seat...more |
| US Airways Jet Crashes Into Hudson River |
| Pres. Bush Addresses Nation For Final Time |
| President Bush is defending his record after eight years in office. Leaving the White House with the highest disapproval rating since Richard Nixon, Bush says he's "always acted with the best interests of our country in mind |
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