Perhaps no one represents the promise and potential pitfalls of veteran’s court like Tyler O’Neil, a Coast Guard veteran who in April was the first to graduate from the program.
The special track in the 86th District Court, set up to deal with veterans facing charges, was launched about a year ago and it has seen its share of ups and downs, and at first O’Neil seemed like one of the ups...
While serving in Iraq as a recon cavalry scout in the U.S. Army, Jason Young survived three explosions.
But the ordeal left him with a traumatic brain injury and post-concussive syndrome, known as “shell shock.” Along with arthritis in his back and structural damage to his neck, Young was medically discharged.
For a man who wanted to make a military career for himself, the transition wasn’t easy.
Panning the panhandlers
I have noticed a disturbing trend in downtown Traverse City. I have observed more and more public intoxication by street people, as well as blatant panhandling for spare change, and was even asked, no, told, to give one certain individual $2 one day, “for beer.”
Just yesterday afternoon, I was approached by three people within 10 minutes in the 200 block of E. Front St. for spare change, 50 cents, and one dollar. Another person has even begun to step out in front of passing motorists, and stop them to do his panhandling.
Where is law enforcement? Has anybody driven by Lay Park in the late mornings, and most of the afternoon lately? There’s a group of at least 10 persons consuming alcohol, and some appear to be passed out lying on the ground. Does this look good to folks who visit the region...
