9 & 10 News
July 9, 2021
The Lobdell family got together to celebrate their “Poppy,” Wayne Lobdell.
Wayne has been participating in the Cherry Fest 5K for 45 years.
11 years ago, he was diagnosed with Parkinson’s and has kept running for his health.
For his birthday this year, his one wish was for his family to run with him.
“I just want my family to join me because I‘ve turned 80 and I’m not sure how many years I can do this,” says Wayne. “We get together often and it’s special to have them here when I’m celebrating my birthday.”
The entire Lobdell clan will be joining Wayne in their matching red shirts for his run tomorrow morning at the Traverse City Central High School track.
9 & 10 News
July 9, 2021
Crews at the National Cherry Festival are working to take down the Arnold Amusements Magic Carpet ride after a malfunction on Thursday night.
All day we have been hearing stories from those who were there, and those who jumped in to help out.
“It was just a normal Cherry Fest…Then there was a noise that started that we didn’t know and we looked up and saw the whole ride tilt forwards,” says Cammra Nolff.
She spent all day Thursday with her son at the National Cherry Festival, then watched as one of the carnival’s rides flew towards her.
9 & 10 News
July 7, 2021
National Cherry Festival organizers were happy to hear the Northern Michigan cherry crop cooperated this year.
Typically the sweet cherry crops aren’t ready to be picked until the end of July, but this year farmers were able to get out and pick early.
“I think people are surprised that they’re local cherries. We’ve had to reiterate to people that they are right here from Michigan,” says Steve Rubinus.
Rubinus has been selling cherries for Edmondson Orchard all week at the National Cherry Festival.
He says it isn’t often that the sweet cherry crop is ready this early, but their crews have been out the last week picking cherries from trees.
There are no restrictions at the Whitehouse Cherry Festival in 2021. Admission is free. It is the weekend of Thursday, June 10 and lasts through Saturday, June 12.
Author of the article: Ellwood Shreve
Publishing date: May 03, 2021 • 4 hours ago • 2 minute read • Jon Paul (JP) Huggins can often be found not only helping to organize community events, but also serving as emcee and DJ. The dedication of the Cedar Springs resident to help others has earned him the honour of Citizen of the Year from the Chatham-Kent Chamber of Commerce. Handout SunMedia
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Many folks will lend a hand when asked, but Jon Paul (J.P.) Huggins actively looks for ways to help others.
And the married 41-year-old father of four is not afraid to put himself out there.