LANSING, Mich., Feb. 17, 2026 — The Michigan Legislative Black Caucus (MLBC) today honors the life of Rev. Jesse Louis Jackson, a towering civil rights leader whose life’s work advanced justice, strengthened democracy and left an enduring mark on communities across Michigan and the nation. The MLBC issued the following statement in remembrance:
“The Michigan Legislative Black Caucus reflects on the extraordinary moral leadership of Rev. Jesse Jackson, whose life reminds this nation that justice requires persistence, courage and an unshakable belief in the worth of every person. Through moments of progress and setback alike, he challenged America to confront inequality honestly and to expand democracy beyond rhetoric into lived reality. His work helped elevate the voices of working people, strengthened the political power of Black communities and affirmed that public service is, at its core, a moral calling. As Michigan continues its own work toward equality, equity and civil rights, we honor Rev. Jackson’s legacy by carrying forward his demand for accountability, inclusion and hope through action.”
A sextortion investigation that began with a Calhoun County Sheriff’s Deputy initial response in Michigan, has resulted in the arrest of a North Carolina man now facing more than 25 felony sex crime charges.
On January 2, 2026, the Sampson County Sheriff’s Office received a complaint from the Calhoun County Sheriff’s Office involving a local 18-year-old female who reported she was being extorted by Kelbie Glover, 22, of Rose Hill, North Carolina. Glover is a registered sex offender in Sampson County from previous convictions related to sexual battery and indecent exposure.
Sampson County Investigators worked quickly to locate Glover, and developed probable cause that Glover was threatening to release private images of the female to family members and arrested him on one count of sexual extortion of an adult, a felony. He was initially denied bond under Iryna’s Law, however, later received a bond and was released after that bond was paid.
A continued investigation between January 22 and February 2 uncovered digital evidence showing images of multiple underage females and identified additional victims who were extorted or received unsolicited explicit images from him. Evidence also corroborated that Glover sexually assaulted an 18-year-old female in Sampson County in late 2024. Due to these findings, arrest warrants were obtained for the following, in addition to the January 2 charges:
1 count of Second-Degree Forcible Rape
14 counts of Second-Degree Sexual Exploitation of a Child
5 counts of Third-Degree Sexual Exploitation of a Child
1 count of Indecent Liberties with a Child
1 count of Extortion
1 count of Disseminating Obscenities
1 count of Failure to Register as a Sex Offender
On February 4, 2026, a Sampson County District Court Judge set bond at $475,000 with stipulations of wearing electronic monitoring device, being confined to his home when not at work or school, and having no access to electronic devices if released pending trial.
The Calhoun County Sheriff is thankful for the work of the Sampson County Sheriff’s Office continuing the investigation and for our good working relationships with surrounding jurisdictions, including ones out of state.
In accordance with Public Act 300 of 1949, the Calhoun County Road Department (CCRD) is enacting Seasonal Weight Restrictions beginning at 6 a.m., Tuesday,
February 17, 2026.
When roads have been frozen all winter, they begin to thaw from the surface downward, melting snow and ice, saturating the softened ground. During the spring thaw, trapped moisture beneath the pavement softens the roadbed, making the road surface more vulnerable to damage. Calhoun County Road Department determines when weight restrictions begin each spring by measuring frost depths in various locations in the County, observing road conditions, and monitoring weather forecasts. Weight restrictions remain in effect until the frost line is deep enough to allow moisture to escape and the roadbeds regain stability.
The weight restrictions, which reduce normal legal loads, apply only to multiple-axle vehicles, not pickup trucks or passenger cars. Seasonal weight restrictions lower axle-loading limits and reduce maximum travel speeds for certain vehicles. The Michigan Vehicle Code (Excerpt) Act 300 of 1949 https://www.legislature.mi.gov/Laws/MCL?objectName=MCL-257-722 provides details about seasonal weight restrictions and their effect on axle loading and speed limits.
For seasonal permits and a list of seasonal roads, visit
LANSING, Mich. — After Donald Trump threatened to block the opening of the Gordie Howe International Bridge Monday— a project he previously called a “vital economic link” between the U.S. and Canada — Michigan Republicans are backing his threat.
In response, Michigan House Democratic Fund spokesperson Amber Gantt released the following statement:
“Once again, Michigan Republicans are falling in line behind Donald Trump — even if it means risking billions in trade and putting Michigan auto workers and manufacturing supply chains on the line. At a time when Michigan families are already feeling the impact of Trump’s economic chaos, Republicans are choosing political loyalty over Michigan’s economy. Voters will remember that in November.”
Applications are now being accepted for the 2026 Neighborhood Mow & Maintenance (NMM) Program in Calhoun County. Offered annually by the Calhoun County Land Bank Authority (CCLBA), this program supports the upkeep of vacant Land Bank–owned properties in the cities of Battle Creek and Albion while providing funding opportunities for local non-profit and community groups.
Community organizations, such as churches, youth groups, scouting groups, nonprofits, and other civic groups, are encouraged to apply. Approved groups will mow and maintain 20 vacant properties from April through October, mowing the properties at least once every three weeks. Groups that successfully complete the program will earn a total stipend of $3,600 for their organization. With prior approval from the Land Bank, participants may also receive 20 percent of the stipend ($720) after completing two mowing cycles to help cover equipment costs.
“Our Neighborhood Mow & Maintenance Program gives groups and volunteers a meaningful way to give back by helping maintain neighborhoods, while also earning funds to support their local activities,” said CCLBA Executive Director Krista Trout-Edwards. “We encourage any interested groups to apply and be part of this community-driven effort.”
The deadline to apply for the 2026 Neighborhood Mow & Maintenance Program is Friday, March 27. This is not an individual employment opportunity and is only available to nonprofit and community groups. To see if your group or organization may qualify, contact the CCLBA at 269-781-0777 or landbank@calhouncountymi.gov. Applications are available online at calhounlandbank.org/neighborhood-mow-maintenance/.
Albion State Rep Frisbee Votes to Cut Support for Moms and Babies
Matt Hall Talks “Lower Costs” as His Own GOP Budget Would Have Cut Healthcare and Food Assistance for Working Families
LANSING, Mich. — Today, House Speaker Matt Hall claimed Republicans are “lowering costs” for Michigan families — even as House Republicans voted for a budget that cuts affordable health care access, slashes food assistance, and raises everyday costs.
Despite Hall’s claims, House Republicans backed and voted for a budget that:
The following House Republicans voted for Matt Hall’s budget:
Rylee Linting, District 27
Jamie Thompson, District 28
James DeSana, District 29
Steve Frisbie, District 44
Kathy Schmaltz, District 46
Ron Robinson, District 48
Ann Bollin, District 49
Mark Tisdel, District 55
Alicia St. Germaine, District 62
David Martin, District 68
Nancy DeBoer, District 86
Karl Bohnak, District 109
“This is what Republican leadership looks like — big talk about lowering costs, paired with a budget that drives up everyday costs,” said Amber Gantt, Communications Director for the Michigan House Democrats. “That’s not lowering costs — it’s pushing them onto the backs of working families.”
The following letter has been submitted for publication here at City Watch after I read it and received permission to do so. Scott Henry is an Albionite who graduated with me from Albion High School here in Michigan. He would go on to attend and graduate from West Point, serve our country for decades, and achieve the rank of Colonel before retiring from the United States Army.
He agreed and sent some photos for me to use with his letter, which are included at the end of his letter. Copies of his letter have been sent to leaders and members of Congress from Virginia and Michigan. As you read this, please appreciate his words. I am sure he would not like me to say this, but I feel it is very brave of him to do so, given the current state of politics.
The Letter:
The Honorable [Name] [Title] [Office Address] [City, State ZIP]
Subject: Accountability, Economic Stability, and the Rule of Law
Dear [Title] [Last Name],
I am writing as a deeply concerned constituent to urge you to do the right thing for the American people by addressing several critical issues that threaten our nation’s stability, safety, and constitutional order.
COL (Ret) Scott Henry
First, I am outraged by the administration’s handling of immigration enforcement and ICE operations, particularly the recent “Operation Metro Surge” deployment in Minnesota. The fatal shootings of American citizens Renee Good and Alex Pretti by federal agents in Minneapolis have revealed a staggering lack of accountability. I urge you to investigate the reported use of so‑called “Kavanaugh stops” and instances of agents entering homes without judicial warrants, as these actions appear to be clear violations of the Fourth Amendment.
Second, the rising cost of living is becoming unbearable. Healthcare costs are projected to surge by up to 10% in 2026, and ACA Marketplace premiums are expected to see their largest increase since 2018, with some states facing hikes exceeding 20%. Coupled with persistent inflation driven by new tariffs and market instability, many Americans are being forced to choose between essential medical care and basic living necessities.
COL (Ret) Scott Henry
Furthermore, I am alarmed by the current administration’s “Western Hemisphere” defense strategy, which seems to prioritize regional isolationism over our vital, decades‑long alliances. Threatening our partners in NATO, the Five Eyes, Japan, and South Korea, while engaging in military strikes across multiple nations, endangers global stability. We must maintain these alliances and ensure that the President adheres to long‑standing diplomatic norms.
Regarding the rule of law and transparency, I specifically request the following actions:
Release of the Epstein files: It is unacceptable that the Department of Justice remains out of compliance with the Epstein Files Transparency Act. Only a fraction of these documents have been released, despite the December 2025 deadline. No one—regardless of wealth or status—is above the law when it comes to heinous crimes such as human trafficking and the exploitation of children.
COL (Ret) Scott Henry
Televised testimony from Jack Smith: Following his recent public appearance before the House Judiciary Committee, it is vital that the American people hear more from the former Special Counsel in a televised format regarding the January 6th attack and the classified documents case. Accountability for whomever sought to overturn a free and fair election and / or not properly safeguard national SAP/STO & TS/SCI secrets is nonnegotiable.
Our three branches of government must serve as checks on one another. I ask you to show the courage necessary to uphold the U.S. Constitution and to protect the proper roles of each branch from executive overreach. I look forward to hearing your specific plan of action on these matters.
Thank you for your time and for your service to our state and country.
City Watch Blog 
You must be logged in to post a comment.