The month of May was marked by the continued rollout of COVID-19 vaccines, a reduction in new cases of the disease and the elimination of mask requirements for those who are fully vaccinated. Locally, residents of Lowell were giving thanks to teachers, learning about area musicians and trying to beat a world record.
The top stories on Lowell’s First Look last month were dominated by The Lowell Riddler – clues and solutions to the riddles took half the top 10 spots – but popular articles also included business and government updates as well as sad news from the Lowell school district.
Here’s a look at the most-read articles, based on website views, during May 2021.
5. City Council Update: Showboat Insurance and Speeding in the Downtown
During its second meeting of the month, Lowell City Council met for a little more than an hour. The main topic of discussion was who should be responsible for the $34,000 annual cost of insuring the Showboat. The council also heard an update from the police department and learned that it appears most drivers are sticking close to the speed limit in the downtown.
4. LAS Mourns Loss of Beloved Bus Driver
COVID hit close to home when Howard Burton passed away last month. As a long-time bus driver with Lowell Area Schools, he helped countless students make it safely to school and home each day. Howard was known for his friendly smile, steady demeanor and willingness to help whenever needed. In recognition of his commitment to the school district, his funeral was held at the Bob Perry Memorial Stadium at Lowell High Schools, and district bus drivers escorted the hearse and family to the field in a moving tribute.
3. Keeping Lowell Safe: Police Beat for April 2021
The Police Beat was the third most-read article of the month, and the big news from the department in April was a number of personnel changes. The department hired a new part-time officer and office clerk while the force said good-bye to a popular part-time officer who has headed off to a full-time position elsewhere. The April Police Beat also included updates on the cost of vandalism to schools that occurred in March.
2. The Lowell Riddler
The Lowell Riddler remains popular, taking five of the top 10 spots for the month. The most popular Riddler clue of the month was the current 13th riddle, which was the second most-read article on Lowell’s First Look in May. That riddle seems to have everyone stumped, and a third clue for the riddle will be revealed shortly.
1. Four Chefs Caters Events and Delivers Meals Directly to Your Home
The top article on Lowell’s First Look during May featured the work of Andy Schultz, a 2006 graduate of Lowell High School. As a culinary expert, Schultz is the executive chef of Four Chefs, a catering and food delivery business that launched in 2019. Serving the Lowell, Grand Rapids and Lakeshore communities, Four Chefs offers both event catering and home meal deliveries, and readers loved hearing about this Lowell grad’s success.
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