Bernard Smith, a beloved father, accomplished handyman, and cherished storyteller, passed away peacefully on August 11, 2026, at the age of 93. Born on October 20, 1932, Bernard filled the lives of those around him with laughter, wisdom, and an unwavering spirit of generosity. As a jack of all trades, Bernard was always willing to lend a hand to family, friends, and neighbors alike. His expertise in woodworking showcased his creativity and his passion for crafting beautiful,
Michigan’s fiscal year 2027 education budget, signed back in July by Gov. Whitmer, makes major changes to school funding while investing in literacy, free school meals, early childhood education and teacher support. Local education leaders say two changes, a weighted funding formula and a new way to calculate enrollment, could help districts better meet student needs. The budget moves Michigan to a weighted per-pupil funding model, a change long supported by Dan Behm, executi
The Red Flannel Festival is offering a $5,000 donation to the City of Cedar Springs to help bring back banners and other visual symbols identifying the community as “The Red Flannel Town.” At the Aug. 13 Cedar Springs City Council meeting, council members authorized the city manager to work with Red Flannel Festival President Matt Andres to define how the donation could be used. The council also discussed the importance of setting clear expectations and guardrails so the city