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Wayland man to stand trial for fatal crash. Police say Marty French (age 26) was driving when his car slid into a train on icy pavement on 142nd Ave. near 12th St., east of the US-131 Dorr exit. He was pinned inside while his girlfriend Kara Hanford (age 15), who was pregnant, was thrown from the car. The two survived, but the baby was delivered by emergency caesarian section and died four days later. Allegan County district court Judge Gary Stewart on Friday ordered French to trial on charges of negligent homicide and driving with a suspended license causing death. He could get 15 years.
Police find almost 170 dogs at Spring Lake Township property. Ottawa deputies say the animals were overcrowded at the home on 144th Ave. last week. Janice Bidwell (age 61) says the dogs were there only temporarily for the holidays, and that homes have already been found for about 80 of the dogs. She pleaded "guilty" in Grand Haven district court to charges of animal abandonment, cruelty and operating a kennel without a license. Judge ordered 120 of the animals to be relocated and says there can be no more than 50 dogs at the facility on January 4. Bidwell will be sentenced on January 9, and could get 93 days plus fines.
More West Michigan schools receive state honors after re-count. Lansing in September released the list of schools that qualified for the Governor’s Cup, awarded to the schools with the most Merit Award winners in its 2001 graduating class. Errors were found, but the new tally shows East Grand Rapids is still the top school in Class B, and Muskegon Catholic Central High at the top of the Class D list. Kalamazoo Christian dropped from the winning position in Class C. Other local schools in their athletic conference that will receive honors in February include:
Lakeshore partygoers can get rides home tonight. For New Year's Eve revelers in Holland and Grand Haven, Last Call Ministries is providing free rides starting at 10:30 p.m. The service expanded this season to destinations up to ten miles from the metropolitan areas. For more information, call (616) 844-0980.
Muskegon activist dies while hunting. Family and friends got worried when Joe Garza Jr. (age 50) didn't return on Wednesday and went out to look for him. They found his body in the woods near Holton-Duck Lake Rd. in Cedar Creek Township that night. Medical examiner confirmed he died of a heart attack. The former migrant worker was the founder and chairman of the West Michigan Hispanic Chamber of Commerce and advocate for housing and economic opportunities for the Latino community. Funeral arrangements are pending, since Garza's son is serving in the military in Afghanistan.
Bank wants money they mistakenly deposited in Grand Rapids school board member's account. The Ohio bank that bought Old Kent Bank last year says that when Jerome Dixon left his job as a commercial loan officer with Old Kent in April 2000, they mistakenly continued to deposit his salary for about nine months, totaling more than $23,000. They want the money back, and filed suit in Kent County Circuit Court seeking triple damages, almost $70,000. Dixon says nobody from Fifth Third has talked to him yet, that he understands it was the bank’s mistake and that he wants to work out repayment. Dixon serves as treasurer of the school board and was appointed last week to represent GRPS on the Downtown Development Authority.
Grand Rapids man charged with stealing Paul Collins painting. Martin Parham is accused of walking off with the 5-by-6 foot painting of Mother Teresa from the Amway Grand Plaza Hotel on Christmas Eve. A police officer noticed him walking along Division Ave., with the painting over his head. He was arraigned on Wednesday, charged with larceny over $20,000 and could get ten years. The artist Paul Collins wants to meet with Parham and figure out why he took the painting. He says if it wasn't for money, the man shouldn't be charged.
MDOT is still working the bugs out of S-Curve de-icer. The $1.2-million system is supposed to spray ice melting fluid onto the road from nozzles in the walls and small disks embedded in the pavement. But on Christmas Eve the computer that controls it started squirting too much, so it was shut down. For now it's being run manually while MDOT and Kent County try to fix the problem. Luckily, MDOT hasn't finished paying for it yet and says they won't until it works correctly.
Appeals judge rejects 28th St. porn shop's attempt to have ruling overturned. When the store moved to a site near private homes in Alger Heights, the owner escaped a hearing because of an outdated ordinance. Nearby families objected and took it to court. Judge in May ruled the intent of the law applies and the store was denied a variance. Owners appealed and Kent County Circuit Court Judge Dennis Kolenda ruled in October that the store violated a city ordinance by selling adult videos and DVDs near residences, and ordered that the store either close or remove the materials. Lawyers appealed, saying the old ordinance applies. Chief Appeals Judge Richard Bandstra handed down his opinion on Wednesday, and said the lawyers brought up issues that aren’t appealable and dismissed. The store could still get permission to appeal Kolenda's decision on other grounds.
GVSU gets scholarship for e-commerce program. GLIMA West Interactive Association of Michigan (formerly Great Lakes Interactive Marketing Association) is providing $2,500 for a student enrolled in Grand Valley State University's graduate level e-commerce certificate program, starting with the coming semester. A student team analyzes a real-world company and creates an online marketing strategy, including web site development, e-commerce plan and transaction models. Deadline to apply is December 31, 2001. The GLIMA West board of directors will select the recipient, who will be named and honored on January 17 at the BOB downtown.
Muskegon deputies mount up again, after 30 years. The sheriff’s department stopped using snowmobiles in the late 1960’s, but returned them to service this year when the snow started. Deputies are riding the county’s 150 miles of trails to enforce safety laws and find drunk drivers. The Department of Natural Resources is also patrolling.
Reward increased for person who tied dog to Kalamazoo railroad track. A woman and her son found the animal's body on November 12 on the tracks south of Cork St. near Monarch Mill Pond. Owner Steve Oostindie said Harley wandered off shortly before it died. Investigators believe the large white dog was tied to the tracks and a necropsy showed it was alive when it was run over. Humane Society reward, advertised on fliers, is almost $7,000 for information leading to the arrest of the person responsible. If you know anything call the Kalamazoo Humane Society, 345-1181. You don't have to give your name if you call Silent Observer, 343-2100.
Muskegon to gets new judges. The state Supreme Court named Judge Andrew Wierengo III to a two year term as chief judge of the 60th District Court starting January 1. He succeeds Judge Michael J. Nolan. In the 14th Circuit Court, Chief Judge Timothy G. Hicks was reappointed, as was Chief Muskegon County Probate Judge Neil G. Mullally. Judge John C. Ruck was named chief judge pro tem in the circuit court.
Grand Rapids recycles Christmas trees. City crew will grind up trees for free starting this weekend at Jaycees Family Park on Kalamazoo Ave. just north of 28th St., and at Riverside Park on Monroe Ave. Bring a bag if you want mulch, and take all you want. Make sure all ornaments, tinsel, plastic bags and metal are off of the tree. Hours are 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. this Saturday and Sunday, and again next weekend, January 12 and 13. Grand Rapids residents can also dispose of a tree by attaching a bulk yard waste tag and putting it out for pickup on the regular garbage collection day.
Grand Rapids stores brace for the holiday returns season. Meijer stores re-open at 6 a.m., Target at 7, and Woodland Mall and RiverTown Crossings at their regular starting times of 9 and 10, respectively. Many stores are advertising sales as good as (or better than) before Christmas. Retail sales of liquor were suspended for 34 hours, starting at 9 p.m. Christmas Eve. Sales will resume at 7 this morning.
Son dies in Christmas Eve morning house fire east of Borculo. Joe Schrotenboer (age 19) graduated with his twin brother, Ed from Zeeland High School in June. He was scheduled to ship out to the U.S. Army in two weeks. He died late Sunday night in a fire that started in his bedroom in the family’s home on 80th Ave. south of Port Sheldon St. His parents and brothers got out okay. The alarm came around 11:30 p.m. and fire-fighters were still on the scene at 7 a.m. They’re not sure yet how it started, and are puzzled about how the fire took him down in so short a time. He got home just a half-hour earlier. Autopsy today will show if he died from carbon monoxide poisoning. Memorial service will be at 11 a.m. Friday at North Blendon CRC.
Christmas Eve bank robbery near Kalamazoo. A man and a woman walked through the back door of the National City Bank in Parchment around 9:40 a.m. Monday, carrying an AK-47 assault rifle. The man pointed it at the tellers while the woman climbed over the counter and filled a bag with money. They got away cleanly, and no one was hurt. If you know anything call Parchment police, 342-1622. You don’t have to give your name if you call Silent Observer, 343-2100.
Police recover $85,000 painting stolen from Amway Grand Plaza Hotel. Security guard noticed on Monday afternoon that the Paul Collins portrait of Mother Teresa was missing from among the paintings hanging on the second floor. Police officer on patrol noticed a man carrying something big and flat on Division Ave. yesterday, and busted him. What was he thinking? The painting measures 4 feet by 5-and-a-half feet. He was homeless, and is now in Kent County jail.
Kent County Health Department starts telephone survey. They’ll be asking about your lifestyle habits: eating, exercise, smoking, drinking, seatbelt, home safety and things like that. They’ll also ask your age, education and income bracket and whether you have health insurance. They won’t ask your name, and you don’t have to answer anything you don’t want to. It’s part of a state study of “behavior risk factors,” and results will be used to compare Kent County residents with the rest of the state. Lansing will do 300 interviews by calling telephone numbers at random, and the local health department will improve accuracy by adding another 900. Typical completion rate of 100 a month means it’ll take all year.
Michigan tree will be first in “forest of the states.” The honor of providing the congressional Christmas tree in the Capitol Building rotates among the fifty states, and starting this year a cutting from each tree will be planted in the National Arboretum. Eventually we’ll have a forest of trees that originated in all fifty states. It’s the idea of Michigan’s Senator Carl Levin, who conveniently thought it up in the year the official congressional tree came from Ontonagon County in the western UP.
Woman dies after being found severely beaten at Riverside Park. Police say a man walking his dog found the partially clothed, unidentified woman at the north end of the park about 6 a.m. Saturday. She died yesterday at Spectrum-Butterworth. Police are still trying to figure out who she is and what happened. She was white, in her mid-20's, 155 lbs., 5'4" to 5'7", with reddish-brown, shoulder-length hair. She wore a maroon hat, green jacket and black pants. If you know anything call the Grand Rapids Police, 456-3404. You don't have to give your name if you call Silent Observer, 774-2345.
GVSU president nixes domestic partner benefits. Mark Murray released a three-page statement on Friday outlining reasons the university won't extend benefits to same-sex partners. The issue first surfaced in the fall of 2000, when former President Arend Lubbers said he favored the idea, but then backed off after getting strong opposition from donors, including Amway co-founder Richard DeVos. The Grand Valley State University Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Faculty and Staff Association, comprised of about 25 employees, says they will continue to push for those benefits.
Muskegon replaces sewer line. Dignitaries on Friday officially "turned the valve" at the county pumping station at Eastern Ave. and Ottawa St. The old line broke many times over the past twenty years, polluting waterways with sewage. The public works board voted to replace it last year and work began in the spring. The $8-million section runs almost three miles from the downtown pumping station, north on Ottawa St., east on Marquette Ave., north on Broadmoor St. and joining another line near Skyline Dr.
Grand Rapids Art Museum receives million-dollar gift. The Drake Quinn Family Foundation made the donation to the museum's endowment fund, which will go to a new $50-million facility on the site of the former Wurzburg Department store at Louis St. and Monroe Ave. Back in November, the Wege Foundation pledged $20-million toward the new art museum the city commission agreed to donate the taxpayer-owned site. GRAM will launch a capital campaign in the next few months to raise the remaining $30-million. The new building, which will open in 2004 or 2005, will be triple the size of the current museum at Pearl St. and Ionia Ave.
Eastern Ottawa County to get Silent Observer line. Ottawa County Sheriff’s Department recently announced a 24-hour call center will serve residents of Allendale, Hudsonville, Coopersville, and Georgetown Township starting February 1. The toll-free line and staff will be paid for by Ottawa County, and the chambers of commerce of those communities will pitch in $1,000 each as start-up funds for training and rewards for the first year and a half. The Silent Observer program provides residents a safe and anonymous way to report a crime.
Multi-million dollar winning lottery ticket comes from Zeeland. Someone bought the ticket for Saturday night's Michigan Millions in Zeeland and won themselves $23-million. Winner’s first chance to claim it will be when the state lottery main office in Lansing opens on Wednesday, and could choose to take it in 30 annual payments of $750,000 or a lump sum of $11.2-million.
Downtown ice rink should open this weekend. City parks department expects the rink in Rosa Parks Circle and Pearl St. and Monroe Ave. to open tomorrow, more than a month late because of repairs from and electrical fire and warm weather. Contractor hurried to finish this week so skaters would be able to use the ice on Christmas. The rink, which opened a year ago this week, boasts a refrigeration system that can make ice when the air is as warm as 45 degrees. Free skates are available at the warming shelter next to the park from noon to 9 p.m. Sunday through Thursday, noon to 11 p.m. Friday and 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. Saturday.
Kentwood teen dies in four-car crash. Jordan Tran (age 16) was driving eastbound on 52nd St. approaching East Paris Ave. just after 7 p.m. on Wednesday, when his car was hit by a Byron Center teen who veered into his lane. Tran's car slid across into the oncoming lanes, where it was hit on the driver's side by a third vehicle. A fourth vehicle hit the Byron Center girl's car. Tran died at the scene. His mother Hiep Phan (age 35) was taken to Spectrum-Butterworth, where she was in "serious" condition. Two other drivers were not seriously injured. The driver of the fourth vehicle left the scene. Kentwood police want to talk to that driver, to help them figure out what happened. If you saw the crash or have any information, call Kentwood police, 698-6580. You don't have to give your name if you call Silent Observer, 774-2345.
Comstock Park man will stand trial for fatal crash. Jeremy Lukaart (age 24) is accused of driving drunk and colliding with a car driven by Kelly Feldmann (age 19) of Grandville on Alpine Ave. north of 4-Mile Rd. on September 20. Feldmann died a week later at Spectrum-Butterworth. Lukaart was ordered to stand trial on Wednesday.
Byron Center teen ordered to trial for spiking classmate's drink. Jonathan Bartleson (age 17) is accused of slipping prescription medicine into another student's drink at Byron Center High School in October, which sent the student to the hospital. The school board expelled him for a school year. Bartleson was ordered to stand trial in 63rd District Court on Wednesday on a charge of placing a harmful substance in a drink. He could get five years.
Voters to decide on expansion of Holland Historic District. Holland City Council voted in October to add 187 properties to the historic district, over objections from some residents. Boundaries were extended at the west end and south along Washington Ave. A group opposed to the expansion collected enough signatures to put the issue in front of voters. City council had the choice of repealing the ordinance or letting residents vote. By a unanimous decision on Wednesday, members agreed to let voters decide. Election date has not been set.
Grand Rapids man pleads "guilty" to Calvin College bomb threat. Marvin Hawkins (age 22) was accused of calling the college and leaving a bomb warning in voice mail on September 20. Administrators evacuated the campus and canceled classes the next day. Students in dorms had to find off-campus housing for the night. Hawkins' trial was set to start yesterday, but he entered the plea instead. He could get 8 years.
Judge fines female cops who requested sanctions against GRPD. Fourteen female officers who filed a sexual harassment and discrimination suit against the police department said they suffered retaliation. The women maintained they were followed, their phones were tapped and they suffered undeserved discipline after filing the lawsuit. They asked Kent County circuit court for sanctions against the department. After the special 8 day pre-trial hearing, Judge Dennis Kolenda on December 3 said there was no evidence to support their claims, and called them unsubstantiated, exaggerated and even "silly." He ordered the women and their attorney yesterday to reimburse the city for its legal fees for responding to the motion for sanctions, amounting to almost $18,000. How and when they will pay has not been determined.
Muskegon man charged with child abuse. Police say Phillip Colcord (age 22) confessed to forcing his girlfriend's baby Richard Pauter (age 6 months) to eat, then shaking him and throwing him into bed while at their apartment on Jefferson St. on December 12. Rebecca Pauter, the baby's mother, called 911 because he was unresponsive. He was taken to Hackley Hospital, then transferred to Spectrum-Butterworth with severe brain injuries and was in "serious" condition yesterday. Colcord was arraigned on Monday, charged with second-degree child abuse. He could get four years or more because of a previous conviction. His preliminary exam is set for December 27.
Four charged in arson at Wayland school building. A 24-year-old and three 18-year-olds are accused of setting a fire to a portable classroom at an alternative education program on Sycamore St. early in the morning of October 24. The blaze caused $150,000 in damage. Classes are being held at the United Church of Wayland until a new portable arrives. The four were arraigned on arson charges yesterday in Allegan district court.
Grand Rapids holiday revelers can say, "Take Me Home!" Thanks to the goodwill of 32 companies, free taxi rides will be available for tipsy partygoers from 9 p.m. to 3 a.m., starting tomorrow night until New Year's morning. The safety program, organized by the Grand Rapids Press, is in its 20th year. Kent County Health Department is pitching in for the first time: they’ll pay cab fare for the three nights before Christmas Eve. Free-ride coupons are available at taverns and printed in the Grand Rapids Press. The party host or bartender fills out the coupon and calls one of the four cab companies for a free ride home, inside the area bound by 4 Mile Rd. and Coit Ave. on the north, Grand River Dr. and Buttrick Ave. on the east, 60th St. on the south end and Kenowa Ave. on the west side.
Butterworth nurses picket for back pay. Back in 1987 the hospital needed experienced nurses on weekends, so they offered a week’s pay for 24 hours of duty from Friday through Sunday. By 1993, the program was eliminated to save money. In February a Kent County jury decided that the hospital broke a contract when they dropped the program. The two sides have not reached a monetary settlement: nurses claim they lost $4-million in pay, while Spectrum is offering just over $1-million. Nurses took up picket signs in front of the hospital on Monday to protest delay in negotiations. A jury will meet in January to set a figure of they don’t reach an agreement.
Sparta area home destroyed in fire. Just a week before Christmas, the family of Juan Salazar lost everything in a blaze that investigators say started in a clothes dryer. Firefighters were called to the home on Sparta Ave. on Monday night just after midnight. The family was awake at the time and escaped safely. The only smoke detector in the house wasn't working. Damage to home and contents is estimated at $100,000.
Gowen man dies in crash. James Marshall (age 52) was driving south on Sorenson Ave. in Spencer Township just before 2 a.m. yesterday, didn’t make the curve at Hendrickson St. and rolled his Ford Explorer completely over. He died from head and internal injuries. Kent deputies say he was not wearing his seatbelt, and they smelled alcohol in the SUV.
Kalamazoo man charged in fatal crash that killed unborn twins. Police chased a stolen car on December 6 until it ran a stop sign at Bridge St. and Riverview Dr. and crashed into another car. Lenora Cole (age 26) was injured and her unborn twins, which were due this month, were killed. Cole is still in "critical" condition. Michael Whitfield (age 23) is charged with fleeing and eluding causing serious injury, failing to stop at a personal injury accident, and carrying a concealed weapon in an automobile. He was also charged yesterday with two counts of gross negligence to a pregnant woman causing death to a fetus. He could get 17 years.
Grand Rapids pair will be tried in fatal beating. Keith Hopskin, Marquis Palmer and his sister Laasa are accused of beating to death Yancey Gray over drug money in November 1998. Police discovered his body in July 2000, buried near an apartment complex in Plainfield Township. Hopskin is now serving time on drug charges in Texas. He agreed to plead "guilty" to second-degree murder, and testify in exchange for a lighter sentence. Marquis Palmer was ordered by a Grand Rapids District judge this week to stand trial for second-degree murder. Laasa is accused of witnessing the beating and helping dispose of the body, and was bound over for trial as an accessory after the fact.
Medical condition caused Kentwood teacher aide's death. Cheryl Vining (age 45) was breaking up a fight on the playground at Challenger Elementary on November 16, when she was knocked to the ground and went into convulsions. She died later that day at Spectrum-Butterworth. Medical examiner Dr. David Start says her death was caused by ventricular cardiomyopathy, a heart condition which can cause sudden death even though there may not be any symptoms. He said the onset of the condition can be caused by physical or emotional stress. Vining did not suffer internal injuries as a result of the fall.
GRPS and teachers reach tentative contract. Administrators announced this morning that the union and school board have agreed on terms for a new contract, but won’t release the details until the teachers vote on it in January or February. Grand Rapids Public Schools teachers have been working under extensions of the last contract since August. Sticking points were pay raises and length of contract, while the board said they didn’t want to commit to spend money when they can’t depend on getting from Lansing.
Federal judge in Kalamazoo orders the MHSAA to change girls' sports. Three years ago, the Grand Rapids-based Communities for Equity filed a class-action lawsuit against the Michigan High School Athletic Association, claiming that female athletes are discriminated against because of the timing of the sports season. Only five states, including Michigan, host girls' basketball in the fall and volleyball in the winter. The group claimed that female athletes are at a disadvantage for getting college scholarships and get less attention. After a two-week non-jury trial, U.S. District Judge Richard Enslen ruled yesterday that the practice violates the 14th amendment and Title 9, the Michigan Civil Rights Act. He told the MHSAA that they must move the sports to more traditional seasons by the 2003-2004 school year. The association said they’ll appeal.
Zeeland school board expels student who brought gun to school. The sophomore is accused of bringing a pistol to class last month. Another student saw it and told the office. The gun wasn't loaded and no one was hurt. He is expelled permanently and could face criminal charges. Board members encouraged students to report anything they notice that is illegal or dangerous.
White House press correspondent to speak at Hudsonville benefit. Helen Thomas will appear at the tenth annual fundraiser for the Center for Women in Transition on March 18 at the Pinnacle Center. Thomas was a reporter for United Press International from 1961 to 2000, covering seven presidential administrations. Her niece is TV-8 news anchor Suzanne Geha. Tickets for the event are $125, a portion of which is tax deductible. Table sponsorships are $1,500 to $5,000. Proceeds will help programs for women and children who are affected by major life transitions like divorce, a spouse's death or domestic and sexual violence. Call 355-9751 for more information.
Gowen man wins a million bucks in lottery. Nicholas Pena (age 31) won $40 on a ticket he bought Thursday, cashed it in and bought four $10 tickets at the Wesco gas station in Greenville. While sitting in his old car, he scratched off three lemons in a row on the Viva Las Vegas instant game ticket and won $1 million. He claimed the prize on Saturday, then went to his job at Andrews Construction early. He says he'll keep his job. He bought a big brand-new pick-up truck and plans to stick most of the rest in a college fund for his kids.
West Michigan students deliver goodies to needy families. Members of TRIO and Upward Bound programs from East Kentwood, Central, Union and Muskegon collected almost $1,000 in donations from GVSU employees. The students will pack the food and gifts for low income families tomorrow and Thursday. Grand Valley State University's Upward Bound Math and Science program serves under-privileged youth who show an interest in careers in the sciences. TRIO is a college prep program aimed at low-income students.
West Ottawa grad killed in crash near Battle Creek. Jennifer Siersma (age 22) was riding in boyfriend Joe Logsdon's car on Saturday when he apparently lost control in heavy snow and hit a tree on Interstate-69 near Tekonsha south of Battle Creek. The two were traveling home from Tri-State University in Angola, Indiana, for a basketball game at GVSU. Police believe Siersma died instantly. Logsdon was not hurt. Siersma was named Most Valuable Player at West Ottawa, and played on the All-Conference Team in 1998.
Trial ordered in Rachel Timmerman murder. U.S Chief District Judge Robert Holmes Bell on Friday said the Newaygo County man charged with drowning the 19-year-old woman in 1997 is competent to stand trial and set it for February 25. Marvin Gabrian (age 48) could get the death penalty: he's being tried in federal court because it happened in the Manistee National Forest. He is accused of chaining her to cement blocks and throwing her into Oxford Lake, just before she was to testify against him on a rape charge. Trial was scheduled for October, but delayed because his attorney asked for a psychiatric exam.
Grant man charged in fatal crash. Brock Howell (age 22) was accused of running a stop sign at Dalson and Sweeter Rds. south of Twin Lake in August and slamming into a pickup, causing it to roll. The other driver, David Williams (age 37), died two days later. Howell was arraigned on Friday in Muskegon's 60th District Court on a charge of negligent homicide. He could get two years.
GVSU study says Kent County is less generous than national average. The Johnson Center for Philanthropy and Nonprofit Leadership at GVSU conducted a telephone interview of 500 households in the county in November and found that only half of them gave money to the September 11 disaster relief funds, compared to 58% nationwide. In the past year, 83% of us donated money or property, compared with 89% statewide and across the country. The study also showed that folks in Kent County were more generous with their time, almost half volunteering in the past year, compared to 44% nationwide.
Christmas Bird Count set for Kalamazoo area. Volunteers are needed for the annual avian appraisal, which started Saturday in the Kellogg Forest and will continue at four other locations:
Two more South Haven boys charged with assault. Police say a 10-year-old boy and two friends entered an 11-year-old girl's home in the Briar Hills townhouses over the weekend while her parents were gone. She told police the boys inappropriately touched her and tried to sexually assault her. The 10-year-old was charged this week with assault and criminal sexual conduct. A 9-year-old boy now faces charges of home invasion and assault, while the other 9-year-old boy was charged with second degree criminal sexual conduct.
Kalamazoo County man arrested in 10-year-old double murder case. Doug Estes (age 33) and James Bennett (age 37) both went deer hunting in the Fulton State Game Area on November 17,1990, and their bodies were found within yards of each other with gunshot wounds. Police questioned Jeff Titus (age 49), owner of adjacent land, but he had an alibi. Kalamazoo's Cold Case Team since uncovered some discrepancies, and Titus was arrested this week and charged with open murder. Police speculate he shot them because he believed they were on his land, or that he had rights to that part of the game area.
Man will go to prison for murder of Gobles teen. Matthew Rooy (age 20) was charged with strangling Jennifer Hinz (age 16) with a phone cord and dumping her body in an outhouse at Three Legged Lake in March. Van Buren County Circuit Court Judge William Buhl ruled this week that Rooy is “guilty” of first-degree murder, saying it was premeditated. Police said Rooy confessed and told them he wanted to know what it feels like to kill someone. He'll get mandatory life in prison with no parole at his sentencing on January 7.
Lowell Area Arts Council gets Distinguished Service Award from Michigan Art Education Association. The council, best known regionally as sponsor of the Fallasburg Fall Festival, was honored at the association’s recent annual conference. It was recognized for its tremendous growth and its contribution to arts education in Lowell for more than 24 years.
Kentwood honors outstanding police employees. Mayor Bill Hardiman announced Employee of the Year awards during recent ceremonies. Crime Analyst Douglas Harrison was selected by his peers as the Court and Police Civilian Employee of the Year, for making improvements in criminal investigation in the detective bureau even though he doesn’t have a law enforcement background. Sergeant Robert Decker was honored as Police Officer of the Year. In 26 years behind the badge he has served as a paramedic, patrol officer, detective in the Fugitive Task Force and on the Special Response Team. He is currently supervisor of the Traffic Services Bureau.
MDOT unveils Henry Freeway web site. The first phase of the Paul B. Henry Freeway (M-6, the South Beltline), 5.7 miles from Interstate-96 to Broadmoor Ave. (M-37), opened just before Thanksgiving. It will eventually stretch 20 miles and connect to the Ford Freeway (Interstate-196) near Hudsonville. Now the new superhighway is on the information superhighway, at www.aboutm6.com. The site answers frequently asked questions about the expressway, provides construction updates and photos, and links to alternate transportation, not to mention graciously connecting you to the lastest Skyview Traffic Report! MDOT also provides information on its projects on the Road Repair Hotline, 1-888-305-PAVE.
Fremont teen and accomplice will go to prison for bomb threats. Joseph Carlson (age 18) and Heather Ennis (age 21) were accused of calling Fremont High School and making threats for five straight days beginning September 11. The two pleaded “guilty” in November and were sentenced in Newaygo County circuit court on Tuesday to 20 to 48 months in a state prison. Judge Anthony Monton said he wanted the defendants to be treated "severely, harshly and not lightly" for making such threats at a time of national crisis. Their parents plan to appeal, saying the sentence is too harsh.
Grand Rapids woman killed in crash. Marilyn Morrell (age 59) was on her way home from a shopping trip in Michigan City, Indiana, on Saturday on Interstate-94 near Stevensville when a westbound car clipped the rear of a semi-truck, crossed the median and slammed into her car. Morrell and the other driver both died. Her daughter Linda Morrell (age 32) was treated at an area hospital for injuries. Memorial service will be at 1 p.m. today at the Arsulowicz Brothers Mortuary in Walker.
Grand Rapids men will go to prison for setting fatal fire. Frank Wesaw (age 18) and Alan Norberg (age 25) are accused of pouring gasoline and lighting a fire in the stairwell leading to six apartments above the Beer Kooler Party Store on Alpine Ave. in September 2000. All residents escaped except Roberta Linderman (age 39), who died of smoke inhalation. Wesaw pleaded "guilty" in October to second-degree murder in exchange for testifying against Norberg. He was sentenced Tuesday to 13-1/2 to 75 years in prison. Norberg accepted a plea agreement on Tuesday, pleading "guilty" to second degree murder and avoiding trial for arson murder. He could have gotten life without parole on those charges.
Northern Michigan postal employee pleads "guilty" to assault. James Beal (age 62) was charged with throwing buckets of worms and porcupine poop and on former co-workers and piles of mail in October, after he was fired from his job at the Empire Post Office in Leelanau County. The mail was delivered late because a hazardous materials team had to disinfect and repackage it. He entered the plea on Tuesday in federal court in Grand Rapids to assaulting, resisting or impeding a federal officer or employee. He could get three years and a $250,000 fine. Judge Gordon Quist also barred Beal from getting rid of his home in Empire so that the government can get $8,000 from him, to pay for workers’ medical treatment and the disinfecting.
State representative from Allendale has viral meningitis. Barb VanderVeen (age 52) was treated at Sparrow Hospital in Lansing earlier this month after suffering severe headaches for about three weeks. Her symptoms got worse last week, so she stopped at Spectrum-Butterworth on her way home from Lansing. She is currently in "fair" condition and will likely go home this weekend. Viral meningitis is more common, but not as serious as bacterial meningitis. VanderVeen is in the middle of her first 2-year term.
Cornerstone University music department plans holiday concert. Wind ensemble, chancel singers and Cornerstone chorale will be accompanied by organ, brass and handbell ensemble in a free Christmas carol concert at 8 p.m. tomorrow at Wealthy Park Baptist Church on Michigan St.
South Haven 10-year-old charged with attempted sexual assault. Police say the boy and two friends entered an 11-year-old girl's home last weekend while her parents were gone. She told police the boy touched her inappropriately and then tried to attack her. He was charged on Monday with second degree criminal sexual conduct, first degree home invasion and assault. He was released yesterday from the Allegan County juvenile detention facility, and will be back in court in two or three weeks.
Muskegon shooting suspect turns himself into police. Jackie Fisher (age 16) of Detroit is accused of shooting Taruas Robinson (age 25) outside her house on Hoyt St. last Wednesday, as she broke up a confrontation between her boyfriend and Fisher. Investigators believe it may be connected with a drug sale dispute. Fisher was arraigned yesterday, charged with assault with intent to do great bodily harm less than murder, and using a firearm during a felony. He's charged as an adult. Robinson was in "fair" condition at Hackley Hospital.
Fruitport man will go to prison for fatal road rage crash. Justin Goodin (age 21) was accused of causing a crash in March that killed Jeremy Bushen (age 20) of Twin Lake. Investigators say Goodin tailgated a pick-up truck that Bushen was driving on Interstate-96 near Coopersville, pulled around and in front of Bushen and slammed on his brakes. Bushen swerved to avoid hitting Goodin and rolled his vehicle into the median. An Ottawa County circuit court jury found Goodin "guilty" in November of leaving the scene of a serious accident and negligent homicide. He was sentenced on Monday to three to ten years.
Man pleads "guilty" to kidnapping Grand Rapids girl. Audie Reed (age 60) was accused of taking Ieshia Reed (then 3 years old) in 1995 and hiding her for 5-1/2 years. The two were found in Arkansas earlier this year. Reed's trial was to begin on Monday with Kent County Circuit Judge Dennis Kolenda presiding because Judge Donald Johnston called in sick. Kolenda ruled to allow evidence to be presented showing that, in 1992, Reed allegedly shot Reto Edmonds, his girlfriend at the time and the girl's mother. Reed pleaded "guilty" Monday, on the condition that he is sentenced by Judge Johnston in February. He could get life. Reed is currently on an electronic tether, living in Berrien County. Ieshia is in foster care awaiting adoption.
GRPS board will consider plan to keep West Side school open. Under the facilities plan approved in August 2000, West Leonard Elementary is scheduled to close at the end of the year. Community members submitted a plan to the school board to keep the school open and expand its grades from six to eight. The board voted on Monday to send the plan to the Education Committee for consideration. Board members also heard a recommendation to close Southeast Academic Center and relocate students to Jefferson Elementary. Last week, SAC students were moved into portables when deteriorating ceiling beams caused two buildings next to the school to be closed down. The decision on whether to close Eastern Elementary was put off until the spring.
Rockford High student hit by car and killed. Ezra Hogg (age 17) was on his way to school around 7:45 a.m. yesterday, and stopped at the usual back-up on westbound Belding Rd. (M-44) approaching of Wolverine Blvd. Police say he made a U-turn on the two-lane highway and was hit by a westbound van, which swerved and went down an embankment. Hogg crossed the road to see if the driver was okay, then went back to his own car because the horn was blaring. Apparently he started to cross back toward the van, and was struck by a passing vehicle traveling at nearly full-speed. He was pronounced dead at the scene. Grief counselors will visit the school tomorrow.
Fruitport woman dies in blaze. Richard Buikema (age 47) woke up smelling smoke in his house on Maple St. around 4 a.m. yesterday. He alerted his wife Cynthia (age 49) and her daughter Chelsey Hartzell (age 12), as well as Robert Mink (age 47) who was visiting from Arizona. They all escaped with minor injuries. Intense heat and smoke kept firefighters from rescuing grandmother Rachel Mink (age 75) from the back bedroom. She was pronounced dead at the scene. Investigators are still trying to figure out what caused the fire. Fire department didn’t say whether there were smoke alarms.
Fire kills five members of Mason County family. Firefighters were called to a house trailer fire on Marshall Rd. near the village of Fountain around 8:30 a.m. Sunday. The blaze was so intense they were unable to go in. Robert Daniels (age 31), his wife Tammie (age 30), and their children Robert Jr. (age 10), Brian (age 9) and Austin (age 3) all died. Daughter Melissa (age 8) was at a friend's house for the night. Four friends staying with the family escaped unharmed.
Muskegon Red Cross looks for volunteer drivers. The agency needs people to drive dialysis patients to treatments and senior citizens to doctor appointments. Drivers are needed several hours a day, once a week. To help call the Muskegon Red Cross, (231) 726-3555.
Oceana and Muskegon county residents: call 911 in emergencies. The recently-delivered PDS telephone directory for Newaygo and Oceana counties says "for any emergency in Newaygo County call 911," but it has no instructions for Oceana residents. It also tells residents of Bailey and Casnovia townships in eastern Muskegon County to call an 800 number for emergencies, but that’s an administrative number for Muskegon County Central Dispatch. In reality, all of Muskegon, Oceana and Newaygo counties have emergency 911 service. This is the first year the PDS Phone Guide covers Oceana County, and the omission is apparently a mistake.
Grand Rapids police bust suspected north side arsonist. With the help of witnesses, Edwin Lach (age 29) was arrested on outstanding warrants in Grant on Thursday. Police say he admitted to setting at least a dozen fires in Grand Rapids during the last month. On Friday they got a warrant charging him with last Wednesday’s fire on Chatham St. That night, firefighters battled three other suspicious fires in the same West Side neighborhood. No one was hurt, but several houses and garages were damaged. Police say Lach told them he set some of the fires as revenge, and others just to watch firefighters. He'll be arraigned this week and could get 20 years.
Westwood Middle School security guard assaulted. GRPS administrators say Nicole Leighty was breaking up a fight between two girls outside the school on Mount Mercy Dr. on Thursday morning when they pushed her to the ground, then kicked and punched her. Parents stopped the girls, who struggled with police when they arrived. Leighty was treated and released at a local hospital for minor injuries. Principal Raul Ysasi sent notes to parents on Friday, saying the girls may be suspended and may face criminal charges. They were both sent to Kent County Juvenile detention but were released during the investigation this week. They could get up to 93 days in jail if convicted of aggravated assault.
Kalamazoo man charged in fatal crash that killed unborn twins. Police chased a stolen car east on Bridge St. on Thursday until it ran a stop sign at Riverview Dr. and crashed into another car. Lenore Cole (age 26) was injured in the crash and her unborn twins, which were due this month, were killed. She was in "critical" condition at Bronson Methodist Hospital. Michael Whitfield (age 23) of Kalamazoo is charged with fleeing and eluding causing serious injury, failing to stop at a personal injury accident, and carrying a concealed weapon in an automobile. He could get more than ten years. After autopsy, he could be charged under Michigan’s Prenatal Protection Act of 1999, which makes it a crime to hurt or kill an unborn baby during an assault.
Suspect charged in fatal crash that killed Muskegon Heights woman. Police say they chased Brian Smith (age 20) of Detroit at speeds up to 90 miles per hour, through southern Muskegon County after he stole an SUV from a parking lot in Fruitport on Tuesday. Officers say they had just given up the chase just before he slammed into a pickup driven by Diane Creason (age 51) at Wood St. and Hume Ave. in a residential area in Muskegon Heights. Creason was a public schools bus driver. Smith was arraigned Friday on charges of manslaughter, fleeing police causing death, and car theft.
North Dakota snatches national championship from GVSU in the last minute. Spectators watched jumbo screens in Grand Valley State's Lubbers Fieldhouse on Saturday as the Lakers played North Dakota State for the NCAA Division II title in Florence, Alabama. With 29 seconds left, the Fighting Sioux scored a touchdown to win, 17 to 14. Juniors on the team said they intend to return to the championship game next year. Kentwood's Curt Anes came in second for the NCAA Division II's Harlon Hill trophy on Friday night.
Creston Library will close tomorrow to move. The branch of the Grand Rapids Public Library on Plainfield Ave. will close at the end of regular hours tomorrow, and re-open on January 9 in the new Creston VanBelkum Library a few blocks north. The new facility is expected to celebrate its grand opening on January 9. More than $515,000 was spent to renovate the building, which gives the library three times the space. The system’s $31-million building program is building or renovating all seven locations, funded mostly by a millage passed in 1997.
Ehlers encourages citizens to e-mail holiday greetings to military overseas. No regular mail is being delivered to personnel on alert or in combat zones, so the U.S. Navy has set up the "Any Service Member" program. Congressman Vern Ehlers promotes the idea, saying students and adults should remember those who are serving our country. To send a holiday greeting, go to www.LIFELines2000.org or http://AnyServiceMember.Navy.mil.
Muskegon woman shot while breaking up fight. Police say Kenneth Kelley was walking a boy to Moon School at Hoyt St. and Laketon Ave. around 12:30 p.m. Wednesday. A man followed and yelled at him, then pulled out a gun. A while later, the suspect showed up at Kelley's girlfriend's house on Hoyt and allegedly shot Taruas Robinson (age 25) in the groin while she tried to break up the confrontation. She was taken to Hackley Hospital. Police are looking for the suspect, who is a dark-skinned African-American in his late teens, 5' 8" or 5'9", 180 to 200 pounds. If you know anything call Muskegon detectives, 724-6755. You don't have to give your name if you call Silent Observer, 72-CRIME.
Two West Michigan teachers earn national certification. Christa Wise of Saugatuck High School and Carol Steele of Union High School are the first in West Michigan to be certified by the National Board of Professional Teaching Standards. Steele was honored yesterday by lawmakers, administrators and fellow teachers at the Grand Rapids Education Association headquarters. During the yearlong process, veteran teachers must assemble a portfolio and video of their work, as well as complete eight hours of testing.
Olympic swimmer offers clinic to local athletes. Josh Davis will show the latest techniques tomorrow to swimmers age 8 and up at East Kentwood High School's aquatic center on Kalamazoo Ave. He'll also give a motivational speech, talk about mental preparation and training on dry land, and race with the kids. Davis won three gold medals in the 1996 Olympic Games and two silvers in 2000, and holds the American record for the 200 meter freestyle. The clinic runs from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., and space is limited to the first 200. To register call Tom Topolski, 698-6700 ext. 267.
North side arsonist hits the West Side. Firefighters were called to a blaze on Straight Ave. at 2 a.m. yesterday. Less than ten minutes later another fire was reported on Chatham St. A third alarm came at 3 a.m. for a vacant home on Fremont Ave., and a fourth on Quarry Ave. less than ten minutes after that. All four are being investigated. If you know anything about the fires, call the Grand Rapids Fire Department, 456-3900. You don't have to give your name if you call Silent Observer, 774-2345.
Muskegon-area woman dies in crash with fugitive. Police say Brian Smith (age 20) of Detroit stole an SUV from a parking lot in Fruitport on Tuesday, then led them on a chase through much of southern Muskegon County at speeds up to 90 miles per hour. They called off pursuit just before he slammed into a pick-up truck driven by Diane Creason (age 51) at Wood St. and Hume Ave. in a residential area in Muskegon Heights. Creason was a public schools bus driver. Smith is in the hospital with a broken leg and will face charges including fleeing and eluding police causing death and stealing a car. He could get life.
Haworth will lay off 550. The Holland-based furniture maker announced yesterday it plans to consolidate its wood manufacturing operations, by closing plants in Holland and North Carolina and moving production to other plants in West Michigan and Canada. Holland will lose 190 jobs and 80 positions at other facilities will be phased out. More than 300 jobs will be eliminated at the North Carolina plant. The company says it’s because of a slow economy.
Judge okays: pave Purple East and put up a parking lot. First Park Congregational Church bought the 80-year-old building on Fulton St. last year, when the Purple East store moved to Ionia Ave. The church asked the city for permission to tear it down to enlarge their parking lot. The city commission and planning commission both turned them down, saying they hoped the area might eventually be declared a historic business district. Some added they didn’t want to lose any more structures to parking lots in the downtown area. Judge H. David Soet on Tuesday ruled that the city overstepped its authority, and could not legally stop the church because parking lots are allowed in the commercial zone. Beside that, he said the city's experts admitted the building has no historic significance. The church said they plan to build eventually in the lot. The city has 20 days to appeal the decision before demolition can start.
GVSU celebrates Winter Commencement on Saturday. More than 600 students will graduate at 10:30 a.m. in the Lubbers Fieldhouse. Gilbert Omenn, CEO of University of Michigan Health System will give the commencement address. Grand Valley State University President Mark Murray will also confer honors on:
Man will go to prison for fatal Muskegon Township crash. Police said Robert Griffis (age 20) was driving on the entrance ramp from Skyline Dr. to northbound US-31 on March 14, lost control and rolled the car five times into a ditch. Passenger Dana Guetzka (age 16) was killed. Witnesses said he was weaving across the center line at a high speed. When passengers asked him to stop he he pulled the wheel to the right, starting the roll. Police said Griffis took off before they arrived. He was arrested in Hart at his grandfather's house the next day. Griffis pleaded "no contest" to negligent homicide and fleeing the scene, and was sentenced on Monday in Muskegon's 14th Circuit Court to 16 months to five years in prison.
Grand Rapids man pleads "no contest" to beating death. Witnesses said Jeffrey Hoaglin (age 21) punched several people outside Bono's Restaurant on Plainfield Ave. on September 9. When Jason VanTil (age 24) tried to break up the fight, they said Hoaglin punched VanTil and knocked him to the ground, then kicked him in the head several times. They told police he did a victory dance over the unconscious VanTil before he left. Hoaglin pleaded "no contest" on Monday in Kent County circuit court to second degree murder, in exchange for dropping assault charges against a waitress. He could get life when he is sentenced on January 30.
GVSU hosts quilt panel workshop for AIDS Awareness Week. Cathy Babbidge, chair of the Grand Rapids Panel-making Committee of the West Michigan AIDS Quilt Display, will conduct a quilting workshop for students, faculty and staff from 4 to 6 p.m. tomorrow in the Cook-DeWitt Center. Grand Valley State University will host speakers and other activities this week. The largest North American display of the AIDS Memorial Quilt will consist of 1,400 panels in the GVSU Fieldhouse, May 9 through 12.
West Michigan schools receive state honors. Governor John Engler yesterday announced the second annual Golden Apple Awards, which honor schools for high or improved scores on MEAP tests. Schools are expected to receive a minimum of $50,000, which staff can choose to use for programs, improvements or books. Honored were:
Judge slaps female cops suing GRPD. Fourteen female officers who filed a sexual harassment and discrimination suit against the police department said they suffered retaliation, so they asked Kent County Circuit Court Judge Dennis Kolenda for sanctions against the department. The women maintained they were followed and suffered undeserved discipline, and their phones were tapped, after the lawsuit was filed. After the special eight-day pre-trial hearing, the judge said they gave no evidence to support their claims, and said the claims were unsubstantiated, exaggerated, and some even "silly." He ordered the women yesterday to reimburse to the city its costs for dealing with the motion for sanctions, which could reach $10,000.
Kentwood man accused in area rapes found in New York City. Police have been on the lookout for James McRae (age 39) since October 29, when his DNA linked him to samples taken in five local unsolved rapes since August 2000. He is wanted on 15 charges, including criminal sexual assault, kidnapping and home invasion. Police believe he fled because he knew they were about to arrest him. New York City police and the FBI caught up with McRae on Sunday morning at a homeless shelter a few blocks from the World Trade Center site. He'll be returned to Michigan to face charges.
Reward offered for person who tied dog to Kalamazoo railroad track. A woman and her son found the animal's body on November 12 on the tracks south of Cork St. near Monarch Mill Pond. Necropsy showed the large white dog was alive when it was run over. The Humane Society first offered a $500 reward for information leading to the capture of the person responsible. Thanks to local residents and the American Humane Society, the reward is now $4,000. If you know anything call the Humane Society, 345-1181. You don't have to give your name if you call Silent Observer, 343-2100.
State historical marker honors second Dutch settlement in Ottawa County. The history of New Groningen is sketchy, but historians say it was founded by Jan Rabbers in the mid-1850's as a commercial and industrial village. All that's left of the community now is a school, a cemetery and some houses. A ceremony at 4 p.m. today will dedicate the marker in honor of the New Groningen settlement at the cemetery off 106th Ave. and Perry St.
Family ups reward in Byron Township man's murder. William Drummond left work at the Family Fare supermarket at Kalamazoo Ave. and 60th St., just after 11 p.m. October 24. Kent deputies found his pick-up truck, crashed into the side of a building near 68th St. and East Paris Ave. at 11:40 p.m. His body was found in a muddy field nearby a few hours later on October 25. The Silent Observer fund offered $5,000 for anyone with information that leads to cracking the case. In the hopes of getting more leads, Drummond's family and friends have increased the reward to $10,000. A caller to Silent Observer saw two men with guns near the Herkimer Apartments downtown. They are asking that person to call back. If you know anything, call the Kent sheriff, 336-3113. You don't have to give your name if you call Silent Observer, 774-2345.
Hunter who accidentally shot and killed Barry County man will not face charges. Lyone Hammond (age 78) of Dowling was sitting in his deer blind on his property on November 17 when he was shot by a stray bullet fired by an Eaton Rapids woman. She had fired four shots at a deer and one struck Hammond in the neck, killing him instantly. Barry County prosecutors announced Friday that she won't be charged, but will give up her hunting privileges for five years and do 100 hours of volunteer work in a hunter safety course. She could have been charged with negligent homicide, which carries a two year sentence.
Grand Rapids man struck by pick-up truck and killed. Police say he stepped out of a driveway on Jefferson Ave. near Pleasant St., apparently into the path of the southbound truck about 7 p.m. Friday. Police say it appears the driver was not speeding.
Man sentenced in Illinois for drunk driving crash that killed Sparta family. Toni and James Mann and their children Derrick (age 8) and Audrey (age 4) died in a head-on collision west of Rockford, Illinois, in 1999. Baby brother Tyler (age 4 months at the time) was the only survivor. Kirk Owens (age 27) was found guilty of drunk driving in March and is serving two years. The jury couldn't agree on charges of reckless homicide at the time, so he was retried. A new jury found him guilty in October on four counts of reckless homicide. He was sentenced on Friday to four years in prison, plus $2,000 in fines.
Zeeland High School student faces criminal charges for bringing gun to school. Administrators say the 15-year-old 10th grader brought his grandfather's unloaded .32 caliber revolver to school on Tuesday to scare another student he said was harassing him. Others saw the gun, told him that he shouldn't have it in school and he took it home. A student told a high school administrator about it on Thursday, and when questioned the boy confessed. By law, he'll be expelled for 180 days and could be permanently expelled. He's also charged with carrying a dangerous weapon in a weapons-free school zone.
GRPS and teachers' union extend contract again. Just a few hours before the third extension expired on Friday, the two sides inked a temporary renewal with no deadline. It can be canceled by either side at any time with a week's notice. They will resume full contract negotiations tomorrow. Grand Rapids Public Schools teachers have been working under extensions of the last contract since August. Union is sticking on a raise and three-year term, district says they can’t commit to spend money when they can’t depend on getting from Lansing.
Portage man shot and killed in confrontation. Police say Officer Glen Patterson was trying to serve Mark Ashley (age 44) with a warrant on Wednesday night at his ex-wife's house on Wrenbury St. south of Romence Rd., when Ashley threatened Patterson with a knife. The 23-year veteran shot Ashley in the chest. He was pronounced dead at the scene. Ashley faced charges of resisting and obstruction after another incident this summer, during which he allegedly threatened officers with a knife. Patterson is on administrative leave during the investigation.
Norton Shores woman gets jail for leaving kids in van. Amanda Bailey (age 24) and her husband David Bailey were accused of leaving their four small children alone in a van while they went into the Norton Shores Meijer in July. Their 5-year-old daughter set fire to a diaper in the van, and ran inside to find them. Meanwhile, bystanders rescued the rest of the children. David Bailey (age 2) suffered burns and was hospitalized. Amanda pleaded "no contest" to fourth degree child abuse, which is "leaving children unattended" and "failing to provide adequate supervision." She was sentenced on Wednesday to four days in jail, one year of probation, and must pay fines and court costs. A bench warrant was issued for her husband when he failed to make a court date in September. The children remain in foster care.
Secretary of State to close Muskegon Heights office. Due to departmental budget cuts, the Sherman Blvd. branch is one of four statewide that will close by the end of January. Five full-time employees at the branch will move to other offices. Residents can use the Apple Ave. location or renew license plates online or by mail, telephone or fax.
Grand Haven plans holiday festivities. Tomorrow's celebration includes a craft show at the Community Center, a Classic Homes Holiday Tour, pictures with Santa at the Santa House, and finishes off with the Jingle Bell Parade. Organizers expect up to 70 units in the parade, which steps off at 7 p.m. from Franklin and Fourth Sts. and marches west to Harbor Dr., north to Washington Ave. and east to Central Park. The annual presentation of the Nativity, which can be seen from Waterfront Stadium, begins tomorrow night and continues through Christmas.
Southeast side sees Soulful Santa spectacle Saturday. Organizers say about 80 units will march in this year's Soul of the City Children's Parade tomorrow. It will step off at 11:30 a.m. from Franklin St. and Fuller Ave., march west to Jefferson Ave. and arrive at the Sheldon Complex around 12:30 p.m. That's where Mr. and Mrs. Santa Claus will give out toys to children and about 10,000 pounds of food to needy families.
GRCC introduces new mascot. The school spent two months and $7,500 to come up with what the Raider should look like. Suggestions ranged from human characters to science fiction creatures. Grand Rapids Community College this week unveiled the new image, which is a raccoon character wearing a fedora, like Indiana Jones. Illustrator Kevin White created drawings of the Raider for Fusionary Media. This is the first official mascot in the school's 87-year history.
GVSU studies gender and time use. A gender and economics class at Grand Valley State University polled 700 area households about division of household labor and its relation to women in the work force. They found that men spend more time in the workplace, while women still do most of the work in the home. Other significant findings:
Fire delays downtown ice rink opening. Scott Bellous was repairing the electrical system in the basement of the service building at Rosa Parks Circle on Tuesday afternoon, when sparks triggered an explosion and fire. He got out, but suffered third-degree burns on his face and hands. He was in “fair” condition at Spectrum-Blodgett. Damage is estimated at $10,500, and Grand Rapids parks department has to repair it before they can open the rink at Pearl St. and Monroe Center for the season. Air temperature has to stay below 45 degrees with no rain for 36 hours in order to make ice.
Gerald R. Ford International Airport dedicates renovated runway. Dignitaries yesterday helped celebrate the replacement of the east-west runway after nine months and $32-million. During construction planes used the north-south runway, which caused extra noise for residents south of the airport. Pilots will resume using the east-west runway some time next week.
West Michigan schools receive Blue Ribbon honors. Northview High School, East Kentwood High School, Sparta Middle School, and Paw Paw High School were named Blue Ribbon Exemplary Schools by the Michigan Department of Education. Fourteen Michigan middle and high schools were chosen by a panel that looks at curriculum, standards, and community and family partnership. They will be Michigan's nominees for the national awards, to be made in the spring by the U.S. Education Department.
Grand Rapids police look for suspect in school construction site robbery. The man entered Coit Elementary School around 10:15 a.m. yesterday, pointed a gun at two construction workers and an electrician and took off with their wallets. Other workers chased him down Trowbridge St., but he got away. Police say the suspect is black, in his mid-20's. He was wearing a blue face covering, a maroon jacket with a silver stripe, and a red hat. If you saw him near Coit Elementary yesterday, call Grand Rapids police, 456-3604. You don't have to give your name if you call Silent Observer, 774-2345.
Man will get prison for Ada rape. Joseph Adkins (age 36) pleaded "guilty" to attacking Jetina Spidell (age 87) in 1998, just before jury selection began for his trial Monday. During the assault, her skull was fractured and her cheekbone broken. She was so traumatized that investigators say she slept in a closet afterward. She died of cancer 10 months later. Adkins was also accused of attacking two other Ada-area women (aged 72 and 82) in 1997 and in 2000. He pleaded "guilty" to just one assault as part of a plea bargain. He could get life in prison at his sentencing in January.
Middle Eastern men living in West Michigan to be questioned. The Department of Justice wants to talk to about 85 local men aged 18 to 33 who have come into the country since January 1, 2000 on temporary visas. The feds say they're not suspects in any activity, but since they have passports from where bin Laden's terrorist network is active, they're hoping to get some information that will help the U.S. effort. Federal and local authorities will conduct the voluntary interviews.
West Michigan students participate in robot-building competition. Twelve middle school teams from Grandville, Holland, Niles, West Ottawa, and Zeeland will show off their creations at the West Michigan Polar Panic from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday at Harbor Lights School in Park Township. The students worked for eight weeks building the robots out of Lego Mindstorm kits for the regional FIRST Lego League. FIRST is "For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology), and also sponsors a robotics competition for high school students. In both, students build a robot to perform specific tasks and solve a real-world problem.
Dramatic comedy at Cornerstone University explores intra-racial, inter-generational conflict. The elders and youngers of the Freitag family deal with clashing values among Jews from western Europe, eastern Europe and Brooklyn in "The Last Night of Ballyhoo," set in Atlanta in the 1930’s, about the time of the premiere of “Gone With the Wind” and Hitler’s invasion of Poland. It won a “Best Play” Tony award for Pulitzer Prize-winner playwright Alfred Uhry, who also wrote “Driving Miss Daisy.” Curtain will be at 8 p.m. Friday at Matthews Auditorium at Grand Rapids Baptist Seminary on Leonard St., with more evening performances on December 1, 6, 7, and 8. There will also be a matinee at 2:30 p.m. December 9, and on December 7 for high school groups. Tickets are $8 for adults and $6 for students and seniors, through TicketsPlus or by calling 222-4400.
Two WMU students will go to jail for riot. Joseph Raybell and Robert Wingerheer pleaded guilty to charges of unlawful assembly for their roles in the riot on September 9 near the Western Michigan University campus in Kalamazoo. They were sentenced yesterday to 15 days in jail plus probation. They'll also have to join other students in paying $24,000 in restitution and performing community service.
Grand Rapids fire department asks your help in finding northeast side arsonist. They put out four fires around College Ave. and Lydia St. near Creston Heights in the early morning hours of Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday. Three garages and a vacant house were mostly destroyed, and it’s pretty clear they were all intentional. Investigators believe they were all set by the same person. If you know anything, call the Grand Rapids Fire Department, 456-3900. You don't have to give your name if you call Silent Observer, 774-2345.
Cable upgrade arrives early in Holland. AT&T announced yesterday that additional channels will become available starting in mid-December. Originally, the upgrade was supposed to be finished in January. Holland customers saw a 5% rate increase last January, and in 2002 standard cable rates will jump another 15%.
Kent County to celebrate World AIDS Day on Friday. The health department’s Healthy Kent 2010 will promote awareness of the local impact of AIDS by hanging 1,134 red ribbons in the trees at Rosa Parks Circle, with a dedication ceremony starting at 11 a.m.. They represent the West Michigan residents diagnosed with HIV, the virus that causes AIDS, over the past 20 years. Candlelight vigil will begin at 7:45 p.m. at GVSU's DeVos Center Campus on Fulton St. People are asked to wear red ribbons all day to show support. World AIDS Day is Saturday, but the organization planned the activities for Friday to get more community involvement.
Two southwest Michigan football teams win in Silverdome. Mendon took the Division 8 state championship from Beal City, 20 to 0, on Saturday. Schoolcraft beat McBain, 26 to 8, for the Division 6 championship. In Division 7, Muskegon Catholic Central fell to Detroit St. Martin Deporres, 23 to 7. Fruitport Trojans bowed to Farmington Hills Harrison, 28 to 6, in Division 3. Jenison lost on Friday night to Chippewa Valley, 26 to 13, in Division 2.
Grant man dies in crash. Joshua Mills (age 23) was driving northbound on Spruce Ave. south of 108th St. around 7 a.m. Saturday, when he apparently lost control and smashed into a tree. Mills died instantly. His girlfriend, Becky Ward (age 17), was asleep in the passenger seat and suffered minor injuries.
Muskegon boy killed in Allegan County rollover. Jeannette Streeting (age 72) was driving northbound on the Ford Freeway (Interstate-196) in Casco Township north of South Haven on Friday, when she apparently lost control and rolled the car four times. Witnesses said the car was shaking before it happened. Cohen Lilley (age 8) died. Streeting was in "fair" condition at a Kalamazoo hospital. Another passenger was in "critical" condition.
Ravenna woman dies in crash with semi-truck. Flossie Wemple (age 76) stopped on Ellis Rd. at the intersection with Ravenna Rd. on Friday, then pulled in front of a semi-truck traveling northbound. The truck driver and his passengers were not hurt.
Kalamazoo starts criminal justice forums. Last January, the Kalamazoo County Commission and the Criminal Justice Council decided put more energy into talking to and listening to citizens. Residents were sent surveys to get more ideas, and more than a third of the 3,000 mailed out have already been returned. Forums will be free and open to all, starting at 7:30 p.m.:
Grand Center hosts, Mel Trotter serves Thanksgiving dinner to needful. The fifth annual banquet was the largest yet, serving 2,500 yesterday. Mel Trotter Ministries says the number of families asking for help at their Heartside residential facility more than doubled over the past year.
Anthrax screeners declare Grand Rapids main post office “all clear.” The Postal Service nine days ago took samples in the lobby, mailboxes and processing area of the facility at Michigan St. and Monroe Ave., and swept the sorting center on Patterson Ave. near the airport. On Wednesday they announced there’s no danger from anthrax spores. They’re testing 250 locations across the country, and almost all are coming back “negative.” Two postal workers and two other citizens died from inhaling anthrax spores sent through the mail. Police and the FBI say a fifth victim, who died this week, apparently didn’t get it by mail.
Northeast side neighborhood concerned about suspicious Thanksgiving Day fires. The first at 4:30 a.m. yesterday destroyed a garage on the alley off Lydia St. near College Ave. just north of Highland Park. Firefighters were called two hours later to put out a blaze in a vacant house a few doors away. Nobody was hurt. Fire department is pretty sure somebody set them both, and may be responsible for another one a few blocks away the morning before.
Two dead after Ottawa County crash. Bradley Ruiter (age 31) of Evanston, Illinois, and his wife Heather were traveling on 112th Ave. near Quincy St. early yesterday morning, when he apparently lost control and rolled the vehicle, landing in a ditch. The couple was killed when the car burst into flames. Two passengers were able to escape. Police think alcohol and speed were factors.
Allegan County man shot while charging at deputies with a knife. The 26-year-old Lee Township man was still “critical but stable” yesterday, following surgery at Bronson in Kalamazoo. He was released on Tuesday afternoon from Allegan County jail, after serving two days on a Friend of the Court warrant. That night he apparently broke into a single-wide mobile home on 110th Ave. in Lee Township, then called 911 and said there’d be dead bodies lying around. The trailer was soon surrounded by deputies, state troopers from the South Haven post and Allegan city police officers. The man stepped through the door, looked around, pulled out the knife and ran straight at one of the deputies — who dropped him with one shot to the chest. No one else was hurt. The young couple and their baby who live in the trailer were not at home when the man broke in. The deputy is on administrative leave until Michigan State Police finish investigating.
Macatawa Bank of Holland buys Grand Bank. The combined operation
will be the largest bank headquartered in West Michigan, with deposits
of $700-million and assets of $800-million. The two will continue to operate
independently, and the vice president of Grand Bank will become CEO of
the Grand Rapids subsidiary. It is expected to keep its own board of directors
in the building on Ottawa Ave. and continue its policies of “no lines,
no tellers.” Grand Bank shareholders will get about 17 Macatawa shares,
which means the price is roughly $40-million. The deal has to be approved
by shareholders of both, and by the feds.
Grand Bank is fourteen years old and
has 50 employees. It was created by Chuck Stoddard, son of the founder
of Michigan National Bank. He started at MNB as a teller, then got a Harvard
MBA. He’ll retire when the deal closes, and give more of his time as state
leader of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.
Macatawa Bank was established in Holland
four years ago by executives of First Michigan Bank, after it was sold
to Huntington. It has 200 employees, and has been looking for a way to
move into Grand Rapids since Old Kent was sold to Fifth Third.
Kentwood welcomes new INS office. U.S. Representative Peter Hoekstra, dignitaries and staff of the Immigration and Naturalization Service attended an open house Monday at the office in the Brentwood Mall on Breton Rd. south of 44th St. Services include fingerprinting non-residents for background checks, and renewal of residency cards. Before the office opened on October 10, the closest office was in Detroit. INS estimates 700 to 800 refugees arrive in West Michigan every year.
Investigation continues into death of Kentwood teacher's aide. Cheryl Vining (age 45) was breaking up a fight between two fifth grade girls at Challenger Elementary School last Friday, when she was knocked to the ground. She went into convulsions and was taken to Spectrum-Butterworth, where she died. Investigators are trying to determine whether she fell from being pushed or because of a medical condition. Autopsy results were inconclusive and the cause of death is still undetermined. The medical examiner says there were no obvious signs of trauma that could have caused her death and they await toxicology report.
Muskegon car salesman dies in crash during test drive. Thomas Schuler of North Muskegon was working at Your Import Center on Sherman Blvd. on Monday, and took two customers for a drive in a 2002 Subaru Impreza. He was driving northbound on Winnetaska Rd. in Norton Shores when they crested a hilltop curve at Lincoln St. and hit a lawn maintenance truck, just after 3:30 p.m. He was killed when the car's roof collapsed on him. The passengers and driver of the truck were treated for minor injuries. Police say speed was a factor in the crash.
Muskegon Heights firefighters rescue puppy from sewer pipe. Amara Gooden (age 13) noticed her tiny Labrador mix puppy was trapped in a basement drainpipe, when she got home on Sanford St. from school on Monday. Dad Paul couldn't reach it and called the fire department. The pup was lodged in a 45 degree bend in the 3-inch pipe, and they had to knock a hole in the floor with a sledge hammer to get to it. The slimy puppy was pulled out by its tail, unharmed.
Holland's "Lighting Up the Holidays" kicks off Dutch Winterfest. Mayor Al McGeehan will flip the switch on thousands of lights in Centennial Park at 6:30 p.m. Friday, followed by a community sing. The annual lantern parade will step off at 6:45 p.m. from 8th St. and College Ave. and march down 8th St. to the park. Kerstmarkt, holiday open air market, will be open for three weekends, offering crafts and food. Dutch Winterfest is sponsored by the Holland Area Visitors and Convention Bureau, which will sell its first holiday greeting card, created by Holland artist Carolyn Stitch, at their offices on 8th St., the Booksellers on Main St., and the Kerstmarkt.
Residents speak out on John Ball Zoo expansion plans. More than 250 people packed the Gerald Ford Museum auditorium last night and told Kent County commissioners what the meeting and voiced their opinions on the zoo's proposed expansion plans. Neighbors don't want to lose green space and are trying to get both park and zoo named historic sites to restrict changes. Commissioners plan to vote on the plan in December.
Coast Guard rescues lost Grand Haven man. Matthew Schmidt was hunting in dense woods on Drummond Island over the weekend, when he apparently lost his way. He was located on Sunday by a helicopter crew and hoisted up by cable. The Coast Guard Air Station in Traverse City has saved four lost hunters since deer hunting season started. They advise hunters to carry a compass, tell others where they're going and when they expect to return.
Grand Rapids woman struck and killed by pick-up truck. Rockford Police on Sunday identified Tonia Siebert (age 24) as the woman who was hit while walking down Northland Dr. near 11-Mile Rd. just before midnight Friday. Police are trying to figure out why she was walking in the center of the street. Funeral will be at 1 p.m. today at the Bliss-Witters Cedar Chapel in Cedar Springs.
Master Arts Theatre presents "Little Women." Based on the classic by Louisa May Alcott that tells of the strength and love of a family during times of personal and national tragedy. It opens at 7:30 p.m. Friday at their new facility on Division Ave. south of 76th St. Performances will be Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights through December 8. Adults are $12, students and senior citizens are $10, at the door or by calling 455-1001.
Grand Rapids mission needs food donations. Mel Trotter Ministries started distributing Thanksgiving food boxes yesterday, but only has enough to serve half of the 1,000 needy families on their list. The mission says it has more than enough turkeys and pies, but needs canned goods. To help, call 454-8249.
Grand Rapids man killed in wrong way crash. Investigators say Mark Minnema (age 20) was driving southbound in the northbound lanes of US-131 near 68th St. around 2:20 a.m yesterday, when he hit an oncoming vehicle driven by Jason Merritt (age 23) of Pierson. Minnema was pronounced dead at the scene. Merritt was treated and released at Spectrum Hospital. The driver of a third vehicle involved was not hurt.
Battle Creek teen drowns in lake. Justin Chase (age 17) was riding in a paddle boat with three friends on Friday morning in Fine Lake north of Battle Creek. Investigators believe the boat sank or capsized. Two made it to shore, while a third was rescued by neighbors who heard them yelling. Chase drowned and his body was found later by Barry deputies.
Holland Township woman dies in car-train crash. Kimberly Beyer (age 35) was southbound on Franklin St. north of Washington Ave. in Zeeland just before noon Saturday when she drove onto the crossing, into the path of a Chicago-bound freight train. The locomotive slammed into the vehicle and pushed it to the side of the track. Beyer died at Holland Community Hospital. Investigators say the lights and horn at the crossing were working when the collision occurred. The crossing has no gate.
Barry County man dies in hunting accident. Lyone Hammond (age 78) was sitting in his deer blind on his property in Dowling on Saturday morning when he was hit by a bullet fired by an Eaton Rapids woman. She shot four times at a deer and one struck Hammond in the neck, killing him instantly.
Vern Ehlers to honor Grand Rapids woman for adoption work. The congressman will present the “Angels in Adoption” award to Sue Pacic, foster mother to almost 30 children who adopted eight special needs kids. Ceremony will be at 9:15 a.m. today at Bethany Christian Services on Eastern Ave.
West Ottawa teen sentenced for fatal crash. Gary Arndt Jr. (age 18) was charged with attempted negligent homicide in the death of Christine Oberstadt on August 13. Police say he was driving eastbound on Ottawa Beach Rd., and hit an oncoming truck while turning north onto Division Ave. Oberstadt was killed. Arndt pleaded "no contest" and Ottawa County Circuit Court Judge Edward Post on Monday ordered one year of probation and 60 hours of community service, and yanked his license for a year. When he completes the probation, the conviction will be removed from his record under the Holmes Youthful Training Act.
One dead, one injured in stabbings on Southwest Side. The body of a 25-year-old Hispanic man was found near a trailer in a church parking lot on Ritzema Ct. near Grandville Ave. just after 8 a.m. yesterday. Preliminary examination showed the victim died of stab wounds. About the same time, police were called to an assault two blocks away at La Familia grocery store, where a man received stab wounds to his neck. He told police he was attacked near the scene of the homicide. He was treated at Saint Mary's Mercy Medical Center. Police believe the two are related.
Grand Rapids City Commission votes to stall zoo development. Neighbors don’t want John Ball Zoo's expansion to use park space, and are trying to get them both designated historic sites to restrict changes. A report in April concluded that both the zoo and park meet criteria for historic status. Commissioners voted yesterday to sit on the county’s blueprints until a decision is made on its historic status. Those who voted in favor say the revised plans presented last week didn't satisfy residents’ concerns about protecting green space in the park.
Portage Northern rallies for new stadium. Right now, Portage Northern High School and Portage Central High School share the same football field, across from Portage Central. Boosters of the Touchdown Club proposed two potential sites for a new stadium to the board of education on Monday. One is North Middle School's football field, which is also the high school's practice field. It would cost about $4-million to convert. The other is at the northwest corner of Northern's campus and would cost about $1.1-million more than the first. The board said they’d look over the proposal. Touchdown Club wants to put it on the ballot in June.
Web site honors GRPS teachers. Administrators started American Education Week on Monday by unveiling a page on the district's site named "You Made A Difference." Present and former students from all over the world can remember their favorite teachers, by entering messages that will be posted on the site.
Search continues for missing Sparta fisherman. Steve DeWitt (age 43) was last seen on the Grand River near Northland Dr. on Saturday. Detectives say he may have fallen over the side of the boat, which was found about a mile to the east. Kent deputies yesterday brought in a dog that finds bodies in water, but turned up nothing. Search will resume at daylight.
Reward for clues increased in Edmore murder. On April 27, the body of Kathryn Dyer (age 71) was found in her house on Home St. and her burned car was found the next day about ten miles away. Montcalm County Sheriff's Department this week added a grant to bring the reward to $10,000 for anybody with information leading to the arrest of the persons responsible. If you know anything, call the Montcalm County sheriff at (989) 831-7590.
Kalamazoo woman killed in crash. Kelly Turuta (age 22) was driving southbound on County Road 657 near Springbrook Dr. in Antwerp Township east of Paw Paw at 11 a.m. Sunday, when she lost control, rolled the vehicle and flipped it. Turuta was thrown from the car and died when it landed on top of her.
Muskegon starts telephone survey. A research consultant hired by the city began calling people last night to find out what they want in a proposed community center, or if they want it at all. The goal is to survey 600 residents from all over the city this week. Researchers will call nightly through Friday starting around 5 p.m. Residents are asked to be patient with the callers so they get a good representation of the community. The company hopes to present findings to the city commission in December.
Allegan County gravediggers win honors. Co-workers Wally Pabis and Sam Ellis recently attended a seminar in Holland held by the Michigan Cemetery Association, where they won the grave-digging contest. Contestants used backhoe and shovels. Based on size and neatness, Pabis won first place, and Ellis came in second. The trophy is on display at City Hall.
Body found near southeast side train tracks. The man carried no identification when he died, next to the tracks near Blaine Ave. and Ballard St., northwest of Burton and Kalamazoo, about 3:15 p.m. Saturday. Autopsy today may find some clues, but police say he had a gunshot wound to the head that appeared to be self-inflicted. He was black, 25 to 30 years old, 6 feet tall, 170 lbs. with black hair, and wore a black turtleneck, black pants and black shoes. If you know anything call Grand Rapids police, 456-3604. You don't have to give your name if you call Silent Observer, 774-2345.
Grand Rapids man charged with domestic violence after standoff. The 911 call came around 12:20 a.m. Saturday, and the caller said the 20-year-old man hit his 23-year-old girlfriend, then pulled up his shirt to show a large silver handgun tucked in his belt. When police pulled up at the house on Grand Ave. on the east side of downtown, the suspect was just leaving. He went back in when he saw the cruiser, and barricaded himself in his apartment. Grand Rapids police negotiator talked him out after six hours. Police later recovered a silver toy gun, which they believe was the one the witness saw. Suspect went to Kent County jail, and faces a warrant for failing to appear for sentencing on an earlier domestic assault charge.
Comstock man dies in crash. Edward Norwood (age 74) was a passenger in the car southbound on Oakland Dr. near Surry Ave. in Schoolcraft Township, and was killed when it crossed the center line around 3:30 p.m. Friday and smashed into an oncoming car. Driver Terry Norwood (age 50) and another passenger, Ronald Sager (age 41), were in "fair" condition at Borgess Medical Center. The other driver was in "good" condition at Bronson Vicksburg. Kalamazoo deputies say alcohol may have been a factor.
Muskegon's Cherry County Playhouse faces financial trouble. The board of directors announced a direct-mail campaign last week, asking for donations to cover a deficit of $330,000. So far, they’ve received $80,000 in pledges. Higher staging costs and dropping financial support led to the shortfall, although ticket sales have been strong. The non-profit theater group lost money every season since relocating from Traverse City, until they finally broke even in 2000. If you can help, call Cherry County Playhouse, (231) 727-8888.
GVSU celebrates President Murray's inauguration. Colleges and universities around the state sent representatives to the ceremony on Friday for Grand Valley State University's third president, Mark Murray. His predecessor Arend Lubbers joined him for his investiture in front of hundreds of students and dignitaries in the Lubbers Fieldhouse on the Allendale campus. A community breakfast was served on Saturday at the Meijer Campus in Holland, followed by lunches at the Lake Michigan Center in Muskegon and the Pew Grand Rapids campus yesterday. Murray said he intends to continue growing the 20,000-student institution, and that success will be built on the work of those who came before him.
Men rob Spencer Township home at gunpoint. Kent deputies say three men dressed in black, wearing ski masks and waving silver automatic handguns burst into a home on Bass Lake around 6:30 a.m. yesterday. A woman and her 15-year-old daughter, who has cerebral palsy, were handcuffed while the suspects ransacked the house and forced her to open a safe. Police say the men got away with cash and collectible coins. After they left, the victims ran to a neighbor's house and called police.
FBI joins national search for Kentwood man. Police have been looking for James McRae (age 39) since October 29, when his DNA samples matched those taken in several local unsolved rapes. He is wanted on 15 charges, including criminal sexual assault, kidnapping and home invasion. Police believe McRae fled the state because he knew they were about to arrest him. FBI's Fugitive Task Force has a federal warrant for him, charging him with unlawful flight to avoid prosecution. His picture will be on their fugitives website and they asked "America's Most Wanted" television show to feature his case. He is black, 5'7", 170 lbs., with black hair and brown eyes. If you know where he is, call Grand Rapids police, 456-3604. You don't have to give your name if you call Silent Observer, 774-2345.
Wife of Grand Rapids district judge wins Crime Prevention Award. Back in July, Judge Benjamin Logan left his car running with the doors unlocked and his wallet inside while he ran inside the GRCC Applied Technology Center to pick up his kids. The car was gone when he came back. His wife Denise came downtown to get them, and she decided they should go look for their car. They traveled to Woodland Shopping Center, where they saw the thief park their car, get out and go into the mall. Police arrived and arrested the man as he came out. The suspect will be in court in January. Logan presented the award last night at the 17th annual ceremony at the Grand Rapids Police Department, as a surprise to his wife and kids.
Derek Jeter returns to Kalamazoo. The New York Yankee yesterday visited his alma mater, Kalamazoo Central High School, and told students about the importance of setting goals and working hard. His speech was on behalf of the Turn 2 Foundation, which he launched in Kalamazoo and New York City five years ago to promote healthy living and keeping kids drug free and off the streets.
Canines "put on the dog" in West Michigan. Hundreds of animals are expected to compete for top prizes in conformation and obedience trials at the annual West Michigan Harvest Cluster Dog Show this weekend. Admission is $5 for adults, $3 for kids 6 to 12, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. today through Sunday at the Deltaplex on Turner Ave.
Civil war statues rehabilitated, rededicated. The 107-year-old monument at the Grand Rapids Veterans Facility on Monroe Ave. NW was thoroughly cleaned after years of neglect, and will be rededicated at 2 p.m. tomorrow. The job was a service of the Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War. They did the same for the 12-foot memorial at Elmwood Cemetery in downtown Cedar Springs, where they will lead another ceremony at 2 p.m. Sunday. The organization is raising money to clean and restore the Civil War statue in downtown Grand Rapids.
Ford Museum hosts Christmas on the Grand. Mayor Logie, dignitaries and members of the Grand Rapids police and fire departments will help kick off the holiday season at the museum at 7 p.m. next Friday, November 16, at the closest thing we have to an official tree-lighting. More than 50,000 lights deck the Ford Museum and Ah-Nab-Awen Park. Civic organizations, youth groups, teams and communities will compete for the best decorated tree award. Guests can also see holiday quilts by West Michigan quilters, along with caroling and the Salvation Army band, and enjoy free hot chocolate and refreshments. (It’s also a chance to see the temporary Lincoln exhibit in the Ford Museum for free.)
Battle Creek woman hit and killed by train. The 51-year-old victim’s body was found near Upton Ave. and Dickman Rd. at 4:20 a.m. yesterday. Police say she was diagnosed as mentally ill and was a patient at the V.A. Hospital. They are still trying to figure out what happened.
Short term parking lot to reopen at Ford Airport. The Federal Aviation Administration approved the airport's request to make the 300-space lot available to the public after being closed since September 11. Travelers and visitors have had to use the long-term lots since then, because vehicles were prohibited from being within 300 feet of the airport. The lot, which could re-open this week, will have beefed-up security. Vehicles entering will be subject to inspection. You still won’t be able to park in front of the terminal, but valet service is available.
City commissioners reconsider name change for Monroe Center. When Monroe Center reopened to cars in May, the commission voted to restore the name “Monroe Ave.” and change the name of Monroe Ave. south of Pearl St. to “Market Ave.” That’s how it was before the pedestrian mall was installed. Business owners and postal employees criticized the changes, saying they're confusing and will be expensive. Commissioners voted on Tuesday to cancel the change and scheduled a public hearing for November 20 to talk about it.
Zeeland plans Veterans Day breakfast and memorial. The public is invited to the buffet-style breakfast from 8 to 11 a.m. Saturday at the Howard Miller community building on Church St. Local veterans and military groups will show memorabilia, and state Representative Patricia Birkholz will bring collections of the stories of local veterans. A memorial walk will start at 11:15 a.m. to Zeeland Cemetery for a memorial service. Tickets for the breakfast are $4 for adults and $2 for kids 12 and under, at the Holland Museum, the Zeeland Chamber of Commerce office and the Zeeland and Holland city halls.
Two could get prison after making bomb threats to Fremont High School.Joseph Carlson (age 18) and Heather Ennis (age 21) are charged with leaving four messages at the school in September, saying that there was a bomb in the building. Students were sent home. Carlson was expelled. The two pleaded "guilty" to charges of false reporting or threat of a bomb Monday in Newaygo County circuit court. They could each get four years at their sentencing in December.
Grand Rapids Art Museum plans to build on the Wurzburg Block. An anonymous local philanthropist has given $20-million for design and construction of a new home for a new structure. An architectural committee chose the site of the former Wurzburg’s Department Store at Monroe Ave. and Louis St. GRAM says it has outgrown its home for 20 years in the old federal building at Pearl