News

Man sent to prison for third-offense domestic violence

January 21, 2026

By Allison Scarbrough, News Editor LUDINGTON — A 32-year-old man was sentenced to 20 months to 10 years in prison in Mason County’s 51st Circuit Court Tuesday, Jan. 20, for a conviction of third-offense domestic violence. Austin Grant Mareches pleaded guilty to the charge, Nov. 18. He received credit for 146 days served in jail. Mareches committed the crime Aug.…

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Brrrrewfest will benefit new state park amphitheater

January 21, 2026

LUDINGTON — The Pure Ludington Brrrrewfest will take place on Saturday, Jan. 31. Proceeds raised at the 11th annual event will support the Friends of the Ludington State Park organization which plans to earmark funds to improve the parks’ amphitheater. Brrrrewfest features craft beverage tastings, entertainment, and food. Funds from past events have helped the group purchase a handicapped-accessible playground,…

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Thief/thieves break into store’s shed and steal returnable cans 

January 21, 2026

The police news is a presentation of Smith & Eddy Insurance, serving west Michigan since 1902, smith-eddy.com. GRANT TOWNSHIP — A thief or thieves broke into a storage shed located behind Ertie’s Forest Trail EZ Mart on North US 31 and stole several returnable cans, said Mason County Sheriff Kim Cole. The break-in was reported Tuesday, Jan. 20, at 4:40…

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Two people injured in Branch Township crash

January 21, 2026

BRANCH TOWNSHIP — Two people were transported to the hospital following a two vehicle crash on US 10 Wednesday, Jan. 21, 2026. Emergency personnel were called to the scene, in front of Pioneer Party Store, 6117 E. US 10, about 10:30 a.m. According to Michigan State Police Trooper Matt Demny, the crash involved two vehicles, a 2011 Toyota and a…

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MCE to host ‘Bear-y Special Winter Night Party’ for preschool families

January 21, 2026

CUSTER — Mason County Eastern will host a “Bear-y Special Winter Night Party” for preschool children (ages 3 and 4) and their parents/guardians on Thursday, Jan. 22 from 5 to 6:30 p.m. The event will take place in the MCE Elementary multi-purpose room. Snacks and activities will be included in the free event. Attendees are asked to arrive no later…

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