Our View

Great Lakes cruise ships: Is Ludington missing the boat?

June 7, 2025

Editorial by Rob Alway, Editor-in-Chief Earlier this week the Pearl Mist cruise ship was the first cruise ship to visit Muskegon in 2025. This 325-foot ship, built specifically for the Great Lakes, accommodates up to 210 passengers. It is one of three cruise lines that will visit Muskegon this summer with a total of 16 visits. The Pearl Mist will…

Read more »

Scottville should develop McPhail Field into housing

February 12, 2025

Editorial by Rob Alway, Editor-in-Chief I have a vision — or rather a hope — for my hometown of Scottville. I know that Scottville, like many small towns, will never return to its former self. With “big box” stores located just a few miles up the road, the commercial independence of Scottville will never be what it was. That doesn’t…

Read more »

MEA employee running for MCC school board seems like a conflict of interest

September 18, 2024

Editorial by Rob Alway, Editor-in-Chief Mason County Central voters face some serious choices at the ballot box on Nov. 5 when it comes to deciding who will be on the Board of Education. One of the candidates, Nicole Birkett, is an employee of the union that represents the school district’s teaching staff. I am sure her intentions are positive but…

Read more »

Judge should not choose one of the prosecutor candidates for interim

May 6, 2024

Editorial by Rob Alway, Editor-in-Chief Late last month, Mason County Prosecuting Attorney Lauren Kreinbrink announced her resignation effective June 1. Michigan law MCL 201.35(1) states that in the event of a vacancy in the office of prosecuting attorney, the circuit court judge shall (must) fill the vacancy by appointment, and that the person appointed shall hold the office for the…

Read more »

Is it time for a county-wide recreation program?

December 4, 2023

Is it time for a county-wide recreation program? Editorial by Rob Alway, Editor-in-Chief Tonight the Ludington City Council is expected to renew an inter-local agreement for recreation programs and services. This agreement, between Ludington, Pere Marquette Township and Hamlin Township, is for recreation, which is operated by Ludington Area School District (which is allowable in the agreement). While the recreation…

Read more »