News

Badger season continues without stern gate

September 18, 2025

By Rob Alway, Editor-in-Chief LUDINGTON — The S.S. Badger departed on time for Manitowoc, Wis. Thursday morning, Sept. 18, less than 14 hours after the boat experienced an accident while docking Wednesday. During docking the Badger backed into its sister ship, the S.S. Spartan, which is moored nearby. The incident caused major damage to the Badger’s stern gate. Lake Michigan…

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AFFEW volunteer/board member Sara Bolan wins state environmental award

September 18, 2025

LUDINGTON – Mason County residents may not know Sara Bolan personally, but there is a good chance they have benefitted all she has made possible—fresh, local produce; beautiful wildlife and gardens; even, perhaps, a solar-powered power tools and a water retention system. Bolan is a steadfast volunteer and board member of AFFEW (A Few Friends of the Environment of the…

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Chamber holds awards celebration

September 18, 2025

LUDINGTON — Ludington Bay Brewing Company was named the 2025 Business of the Year by the Chamber Alliance of Mason County during its annual awards dinner Wednesday night at The Lake House. Cartier Mansion was honored as Small Business of the Year, and the community service award went to Communities Overcoming Violent Encounters (C.O.V.E.). Ludington Bay Brewing owner, Ted Gedra…

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DHD #10 announces upcoming COVID and flu walk-in clinics

September 18, 2025

LUDINGTON – District Health Department #10 announced that 2025-2026 COVID-19 and flu immunizations are now available, and upcoming COVID-19 and flu vaccination clinics are scheduled. The new Pfizer COVID-19 vaccination is now available at DHD#10 for everyone ages 5 years and older. To learn more about the COVID-19 immunization schedule, visit: https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/covid-19/index.html. In addition, DHD#10 is beginning its COVID-19 and…

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Badger stern gate damaged while docking

September 17, 2025

This story has been updated at 11:45 p.m. By Rob Alway, Editor-in-Chief LUDINGTON — The S.S. Badger’s stern gate was damaged while the car ferry was docking Wednesday evening, Sept. 17. Witnesses stated the boat’s stern struck the S.S. Spartan’s bow, causing the stern gate to be pushed inward toward the Badger’s car deck. There appears to be a large…

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