Petoskey News-Review

3 days ago | petoskeynews.com | Paul Welitzkin

GAYLORD — Management of Alpen Bluffs Outdoor Resort told the Gaylord City Council on Monday, June 23 that steps have been taken to address the facility's high water usage. Craig Snyder of Alpen Bluffs said the resort pressure tested its water system and discovered that a series of water shut-off valves called curb stops needed to be remediated. "We did that and now the system functions as it was designed," he said, adding that the facility's water usage has declined in the last week to 10 days.

3 days ago | petoskeynews.com | Dylan Jespersen

For the past few seasons, some of Michigan's best softball players have come from right here in Otsego County. The 2025 spring was no different. Girls from Gaylord, St. Mary and Johannesburg-Lewiston softball have been pulling in postseason honors for their efforts this spring, highlighted by four all-state selections and two all-star game appearances. Now, it's time for you to decide who had the best season among the best players in Otsego County.

5 days ago | petoskeynews.com | Paul Welitzkin

GAYLORD — About a year ago, water from the city of Gaylord began flowing to Alpen Bluffs Outdoor Resort on M-32 East. From that moment on, the facility's water usage has been higher than normal. Gaylord City Treasurer Travis Hewitt said Alpen Bluffs used about 106,000 cubic feet of water (equivalent to about 800,000 gallons) in June 2024. Last month, Alpen Bluffs used 141,000 cubic feet. A typical full-service car wash would use anywhere from 70,000 to 90,000 cubic feet in a month, noted Hewitt.

1 week ago | petoskeynews.com | Rachel Brougham

Michigan's fourth- and eighth-graders are performing below the national average in reading proficiency. Inadequate school funding and a decline in reading for pleasure contribute to lower literacy rates. Parents can improve children's reading skills by actively engaging with them through reading aloud, playing word games and utilizing everyday literacy opportunities. It’s summer break for our kids. They need to spend time outside in the pool or at the lake.

1 week ago | petoskeynews.com | Karly Graham

PETOSKEY — Pride flags outside of two Petoskey churches were reported as vandalized on Monday, June 16, Lt. David Schultz from the Petoskey Department of Public Safety confirmed to the News-Review. June is recognized as Pride Month, celebrating and recognizing members of the LGBTQ+ community. Schultz said Pastor Sherry McGuffin from the Cross of Christ Lutheran Church found damage on the Pride flag that was attached to the church's signpost out front.