The Oceana Echo

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Little Sable Point celebrates 150 years

Little Sable Point lighthouse in Mears celebrated its 150th anniversary this past Saturday. The event kicked off with a speech from Sable Points Lighthouse Keepers Association Executive Director Jack Greve, above left in blue, followed by a personal recollection by Jerry Hackenrider, above, who was one of the last people to live in the lighthouse and keeper’s quarters. He is the stepson of Little Sable’s final keeper, Henry Vavrina. Lighthouse

By Sharon Hallack

The Oceana Echo Community Contributor

HART - Monday, the Hart City Council voted to accept the bid of $302,059.30 from low-bidder Wadel Stabilization for the resurfacing of West Main Street, from the West Main fill, west to the city limit. According to City Manager Rob Splane, the project had been es-

Seekers President Carl Wiegand, above seated, was also on hand, along with Stephen Kantner, below left standing, who read a poem he penned about the lighthouse. Senator Jon Bumstead, above left, presented Greve with a special state tribute, and numerous volunteers had games and more for attendees to enjoy.

• Amanda Dodge/Echo

City of Hart moves forward with numerous plans

timated to be $330,000 in May, so the bid from Wadel was coming in 10 percent below what was budgeted. Wadel has conferred with the city and reports they should be able to start the project after Labor Day and have it completed by November. Five other bids received from other West Michigan contractors ranged in price from $310,032.10 to $374,357.50.

A Veterans Park “bid opening discussion” was also on the agenda Monday night. This long-awaited project has been in the works for the better part of six years. What was originally budgeted as a $600,000 project was priced at $800,000 two years ago and was estimated to run $880,000 this year. The lowest bid received at last week’s bid opening was $1,186,000. Some components are of “premium” caliber, according to Splane. He said the city will need to look at possible alternatives for some of those components. He said he plans to look into more DNR funding and a possible fundraising campaign.

Another long-standing city project soon com-

ing to fruition is the Safe Routes to School extension. On track to go out for bids in October, preliminary work could begin this fall, with completion by June 2025. The route would begin at the south end of Water Street and head north to Johnson, then west to Peach Street, north on Peach, turn west on Gilmore Street, head back to the north on Plum Street, go west on Tyler Road, then north on 72nd Avenue, connecting to the Pentwater Hart Trail there.

There would be designated areas on both Tyler Road and 72nd Avenue to accommodate walkers from the Pines Trailer Park and Oceana Christian School. The official route would run along the south side of Tyler in the right-of-way along Hart Cemetery. According to Splane, all adjacent homeowners are aware, and tree removal will be minimal.

There has been discussion as to how a finished “trail” would work with the unfinished dirt portion of South Plum Street.

“It’s a tricky piece of road with lots of infrastructure involved,” Splane said.

The cost to resurface is extremely high, at an estimated $450,000. The use of aggregate has been discussed. Regardless, before any construction begins, another public information night will be held.

In his city manager’s report, Splane was happy to announce that the Dryden Street project was running ahead of schedule. Contractors are hoping for completion as early as the end of September.

Splane also reported that the coming year will be a time of transition at the Hart Historic District. Several members of the Hart Preservation Group have indicated they do not plan to continue on the board after this year. With that in mind, the city parks and recreation manager has taken over the rental schedule for the buildings in the district. The group’s final two board meetings of the year will be Thursday, Aug. 27 and Thursday, Sept. 26 at 7 p.m. in Heritage Hall. Anyone interested in continuing the legacy begun many decades ago at this beautifully maintained and historic city property is encouraged to attend.

In other city news, the council recently passed Resolution 2024-19 to authorize pay rate increases for their three appointed city officials. The city clerk/treasurer’s and police chief’s last pay increases were in July 2023; the city manager’s last pay increase was in July 2022.

The resolution was first brought to council at its June 25 meeting, however, there were some questions, and not all four council members present voted in favor of the resolution. Authorization failed as four votes would have been needed either way to approve or deny the requested pay rate increases.

At the council’s July 9 meeting, the item was on the agenda, and once more, only four council members were present. The council voted to table the resolution with the hope that more council members could be present at the next meeting.

Finally, on July 23, with only four council members present once again, another discussion was held, and an amendment to the resolution was passed, with new councilor Jim Cunning-

ham and current councilors Dean Hodges and Amanda Klotz, along with Mayor Vicki Platt, voting in favor. Councilors Catalina Burillo, Jim Evans and Kris Trygstad were absent.

The amended resolution gave approval to a 4 percent across-the-board rate increase. (Initially, a 6 percent pay increase was being requested for the city clerk/treasurer, who had recently become certified.) Approved pay rates are now as follows: city clerk/treasurer: $66,033; Hart police chief: $78,378; and Hart city manager: $94,051. Additionally, the city’s TIFA (Tax Increment Financing Authority), which has previously budgeted the repurposing of 211 E. Main St., is planning to have a new parking lot built on that site. At one time, it was thought the location might be of interest to developers as a mixed-used (residential and commercial) site. However, with the acquisition of the former Ceres Solutions property to the west, the TIFA has shifted its focus to the redevelopment of that location instead.

114 Dryden St.

Hart, Mich. 49420 (231) 873-2600 Visit us! The Oceana County Historical & Genealogical Society is open Wednesdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Private tours are available by appointment. oceanahistory.org

The struggles of Mr. Jennings

By Caleb Jackson

The Oceana Echo Community Columnist

We, in this modern era, rather intuitively understand that the early settlement of Pentwater must have been a trying ordeal for most people. After all, they lacked most, if not all, of the conveniences of modern life, and beyond that, the community was smaller, the number of predators greater, and the application of medicine was not as well developed as it is now. Still, we know that these early settlers succeeded. Pentwater now stands bold and successful. The proof is in the pudding. However, it is maybe a bit of naivety to think that the settlement went off without a hitch. There is, included among the pages of Page’s History of Oceana County, a settlement story so unfortunate that I thought I must share it here. So, without any further ado, let me tell you about Mr. Jennings.

Mr. Jennings initially homesteaded somewhere along the northern branch of the Pentwater River. As our dear author puts it, Jennings “went onto his land without a cent in his pocket, but with a heart full of courage.” The

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courage, presumably, served him very well, as he needed it in spades to endure what he did. To even begin his homestead, Jennings had to walk three miles through the woods with his stove on his back. And this isn’t even the worst of it. He somehow managed to get lost along the way, and “laid out all night with his stove.” Personally, a stove would not be my campfire companion of choice, particularly one that I spent all day carrying. After arriving upon his lot, Jennings needed to begin the construction of his shanty. To do this, all of the boards and supplies also had to be carried three miles through the woods. At least he seems to have memorized the path, as Page doesn’t mention him getting lost again. According to Page, by the time Jennings was done with his shanty, “the skin was all worn from his shoulders.”

Immediately following this, Mr. Jennings noticed a rather threatening-looking tree nearby. He decided, with his good, clean wisdom, to cut it down before it became a serious issue, and “it gave another practical example of the total depravity of inanimate things by falling directly across his cabin, knocking everything into the dir-

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est confusion.”

Now this is probably where Mr. Jennings should have called it quits, but he did not. He turned away from the mess of the cabin in disgust and simply started walking. After about half an hour, he cooled off and returned. Yet, “every attempt that he made to improve his condition while he remained in this location seemed equally unfortunate.” He bought six yearlings and gave one of them to Charles Dumaw for helping ferry them across the river. Within a year, the remaining five were lost. He bought a yoke of cattle. Two days after returning home with them, he discovered the best of the two drowned in a creek. He kept the second for a time before he too went missing. It was eventually found mired in a bog. The cattle was pulled out of the bog only to discover that he was skin and bone. Mr. Jennings assumed it must have been stuck there for a week. Over time, the cattle recovered and was allowed to go out again. It immediately got lost again. This time, Jennings gave it up as a lost cause.

Mr. Jennings attempts to settle this little spot along the Pentwater River were so wrought with

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misfortune, he eventually decided to give it up altogether. He sold his land and “joyfully bade adieu to the black flies and mosquitoes, which had been his only visitants….” He instead went a few miles south, where he eventually “struck into the tide of prosperity” and became one of the most respected citizens in the township. However, it would seem the hand of fate had one last misfortune in store for him. After he sold his lands and was crossing the river to get to his new lands, he “managed to fall off an overhanging tree, and got a thorough wetting.”

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THE

Ongoing

M-F: Feeding America’s Gather 2 Grow summer meal program, Hart Area Public Library, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

TUES-SAT: Pentwater Historical Museum open, 85 Rutledge St., 1-4 p.m.

TUES-SUN: Little Sable Point Lighthouse open by admission, 287 N. Lighthouse Dr., Mears, 10 a.m to 5 p.m.

MONDAYS: Pentwater Farmers Market, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

MONDAYS: Free yoga classes, Lakeside Rehab Family Fitness, 39 State St. in Hart, 5:30-6:30 p.m.

TUESDAYS: Walkerville Community Library,145 Lathrop St., 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. with Story Hour at 10 a.m.

TUESDAYS: TOPS (Taking Off Pounds Sensibly), Hart Wesleyan Church, 5 p.m.

2nd & 4th TUESDAYS: Second and Fourth through Sept. 25, New Era Farmers Market, 4-7 p.m.

3rd TUESDAYS: Pentwater Jr. Women’s Club - Feeding America W. Mich. mobile food pantry, Pentwater Fire Dept., 11 a.m.

WEDNESDAYS: Love INC satellite open, Walkerville Wesleyan Church, 144 S. Hamon St., noon to 4 p.m.

1st & 3rd WEDNESDAYS: Hart VFW Post 1329 Burger/ Chicken/Brat/Ribs Night, 5-7 p.m., dine-in or carry out.

2nd & 4th WEDNESDAYS - True North Housing Assistance satellite open, Walkerville Wesleyan Church, 12:30-3:30 p.m.

THURSDAYS: Pentwater Farmers Market, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

THURSDAYS: Walkerville Community Library, 145 Lathrop St., 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.

FRIDAYS: Story Hour, Hesperia Community Library, 80 Division St., 10-11 a.m.

FRIDAYS: Preschool Story Hour, HAPL, 11 a.m.

2nd & 4th FRIDAYS: Knights of Columbus Bingo, 6 p.m., St. Gregory Parish Center, 214 S. Peach Ave. in Hart, doors open at 4 p.m.

The Ladder Community Center: M-F: The Ladder is open for adults (18+) 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Fridays in August: Grillin’ for God - free hot dogs & chips, 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Saturdays: Celebrate worship gathering, 6:30 p.m. School Prayer Walk/Drive: Aug. 26, 3-4 p.m., SHS Parking Lot Complete schedule at: theladdercommunitycenter.com

Fun with Flowers at the New Era Farmers Market planned for August 27

The theme for the Aug. 27 New Era Farmers Market is “Fun with Flowers.” The market kicks off at 4 p.m. with the kids Power of Produce Club storytime. Bradley Youngstrom will be reading to the kids. Next, the kids will receive basic instruction on flower arranging and be able to take home the flower arrangement they make. Kids will enter a drawing for up to six day passes at Sand Castles Children’s Museum in Ludington.

The band Acoustic Oasis will begin performing at 5 p.m. This is a repeat performance that was well received last year and sure to entertain.

Vendors are promising peaches, apples, tomatoes and other seasonal homegrown veggies. Weesies Bros. will be there with delicious corn, perennials and succulents. Organizers have vendors coming all the way from Holland, and even had one from Flint at the last market. Come on out to see some of the finest artisans and crafters and enjoy the market.

The organizers hope to see you there. The market is located at 1820 Ray Ave. in New Era. Look for their market mascot, Raye the Scarecrow, on the corner, hanging out with the sign.

August Echo

Through Aug. 24 - Oceana County Fair

Aug. 23 - Story Time, Hesperia Community Library, 10-11 a.m.

Aug 23-24 - Pentwater Sidewalk Sales

Aug. 26 - The Ladder’s Annual School Prayer Walk/Drive, Shelby High School Parking Lot, 3-4 p.m.

Aug. 27 - Tech Time, Hesperia Comm. Library, 1:30-2:30 p.m.

Aug. 27 - Shelby High School Open House, 1-4:30 p.m.

Aug. 27 - Shelby Elementary School Open House, 4:30-6 p.m.

Aug. 27 - Craft Night, Hesperia Community Library, 6-7 p.m.

Aug. 28 - Adult Book Club, Hesperia Comm. Library, 2-3 p.m.

Aug. 28 - Shelby Middle School Open House, 6:30-7:30 p.m.

Aug. 30 - Sensory Play, Hesperia Community Library, 10 a.m.

Aug. 31 - Free Community Breakfast, Shelby Congregational United Church of Christ, 51 E. Third St., Shelby, 8-10 a.m.

Aug. 31 - Walkerville Pioneer House Museum Open, 133 E. Main St., Walkerville, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

GSRP free preschool program has openings

Hart, Ludington, MCC, MCE, Oaktree, Pentwater, Shelby and Walkerville preschool programs are now accepting applications for fall enrollment in its nationally-ranked free Great Start Readiness Program (GSRP). Universal Pre-K for all means families with children who turn four years old by Dec. 1, 2024, regardless of income, can now be enrolled in at any of our local districts. GSRP classes offer a full-day schedule Monday through Thursday, with some sites now offering five-day programming. Most locations offer transportation. All GSRP programs exceed state requirements for safety and quality and are rated by Michigan’s Great Start to Quality rating system. Program directors at each location are here to help answer questions and are ready to welcome children into their programs. To apply to the GSRP program, contact the local school district of choice, Jeni Schafer, Early Childhood Supervisor, at 231-898-1545 or go to www. wsesd.org and go to Quick Links to apply online.

Shelby Congregational UCC to host free breakfast

The entire community is invited to join one another for breakfast next Saturday, Aug. 31, from 8-10 a.m. at Shelby Congregational United Church of Christ in Shelby. This totally free “Fifth Saturday” community breakfast is open to all and a great way to start your Labor Day weekend.

Stop in for hot and cold breakfast items, conversation and fellowship. The church is located at 51 E. Third St. in downtown Shelby. The next “Fifth Saturday” free community breakfast will take place Nov. 30.

20th annual Apple & BBQ Festival set for Sept. 6-7

The Apple & BBQ Festival will take place in Silver Lake Sept. 6-7, 2024. This annual event will kick off the fall season with two days of live music, a beer and wine tent, a vast selection of 20 food truck vendors, and activities for all ages.

Festival attendees can look forward to exciting attractions such as GellyBall, axe throwing, large petting zoo, pony rides, kids activities and story time. Don't miss live forging and chainsaw artist exhibitions. The fun continues Saturday with the addition of 140+ handmade arts and crafts booths, an apple pie baking contest, the Chicken Shack Classic Auto & ORV Show, and the Apple-a-Day 5K run.

For more information, please contact the Silver Lake Sand Dunes Visitor Bureau at (231) 873-2247 or visit our website at www.applebbqfestival.com.

Good Buy Book Sale at Shelby Library August 24

The Friends of the Shelby Area District Library announce the 20th “Good Buy” Book Sale at the library on Saturday, Aug. 24 from 9 a.m. until 1 p.m.

The sale is for those who love books and want a good buy. This is a great opportunity to recycle one’s home library.

This year, there are four book-themed gift baskets highlighting local authors up for grabs. Baskets are currently on display at the Shelby through Aug. 23. Come in and place your bid!

The Friends group invites all to donate books, CDs, DVDs, board games and puzzles. Donations can be brought to the library from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. until Aug. 23. Please do not donate encyclopedias, condensed Reader’s Digests, textbooks or musty books.

For early-bird shoppers, organizers will open the library on the evening of Aug. 23 from 5-7 p.m. A $5 donation at the door will get you the first opportunity at these “good buys.” Hardcovers are priced at $1.50 each or three for $3 and paperbacks at $0.75 each or three for $2.

In Loving Memory of our Family, Friends and Neighbors

Josephine (Jo) Rose Campagna

March 18, 1919 ~ August 16, 2024

Josephine (Jo) Rose Campagna, 105, passed away peacefully early Friday, Aug. 16, 2024, at the Oceana County Medical Care Facility in Hart, Mich., where she resided for the last few days of her life. Until recently, Jo lived in her home in rural Shelby for the past 70-plus years. She was born March 18, 1919, in Chicago, Ill. and was believed to be one of the oldest residents in Oceana County.

Jo grew up in Chicago, the daughter of Vincent and Julia (Stasioski) Rozborski. She was the third born of four children: brother, John (Florence) Rozborski; sister, Jean (Andrew) Dziurdzik and brother, Frank Rozborski.

Jo and Nicholas Campagna were married at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Chicago in 1941, and they were charter members of Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Church in Shelby. Though she grew up as a city girl and greatly enjoyed the activities of the Chicago area, she came to Shelby with Nick, Chris and Judi in 1952 and became a farm wife on their small fruit farm just outside of Shelby. After working at the Williamson Candy Company making O’Henry candy bars during her Chicago years, she then spent 35 years employed at the former Misco (Howmet Aerospace) company in Muskegon and Whitehall before retirement. After retirement, she and Nick toured parts of the country and enjoyed their winter home in Mission, Texas, near the Mexican border. Jo enjoyed traveling and took a trip to Italy with Campagna relatives and cruised to Alaska, through the Panama Canal and the Caribbean.

Center, an occasional trip to the casino, playing cards with daughters and caregivers, doing puzzles and winning (often) and losing (more often) on scratchoff lottery tickets occupied Jo’s days. At one point after retirement, she also spent time painting landscapes, knitting and quilting.

Jo will be greatly missed by family and friends.

Josephine is survived by: her two daughters, Christine (Richard) Lound, and Judith (Gary) Lankfer; grandchildren, Alan (Liz) Lound, Lisa (Ed) Felt, Susan (Michael) Melcher and Michael (Jenni) Lankfer; numerous great- and great-great-grandchildren; as well as many nieces and nephews.

Jo was preceded in death by her husband, Nicholas; stepson, Nicholas (Ann) Campagna Jr.; parents, Vincent and Julia (Stasioski) Rozborski; her siblings and their spouses; in-laws, John (Beryl) Campagna, Jasper (Beatrice) Campagna, Madeline (William) Hayes and Eugene (Betty) Campagna.

Liturgy of the Word will be shared at 11 a.m., with Father Phil Sliwinski presiding, Tuesday, Aug. 27, 2024, at Harris Funeral Home, 267 N. Michigan Ave., Shelby, MI 49455. A visitation will be held one hour prior to services, and a luncheon will take place at Our Lady of Fatima, 1372 S. Oceana Dr., Shelby, MI 49455, following interment in Mt. Hope Cemetery, W. Woodrow Rd., Shelby, MI 49455.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to The Ladder Community Center, 67 N. State Street, Shelby, MI 49455.

Visits from family and friends, Thursday bingo at The Ladder Community

Obituary Information:

Harris Funeral Home, in Shelby, is in charge of arrangements. harrisfhome.com

We, at The Oceana Echo, offer our deepest condolences for your loss and are here to help you tell others about your loved one’s life and the plans you have made to honor, celebrate and remember them. If you would like to place an obituary with us, please tell your arrangement specialist or email us at theoceanaecho@gmail.com.

St. Peter’s-By-The-Lake Episcopal Church 8435 Old Channel Trail, Montague 616-894-0172

SUNDAY EUCHARIST – 10:00 am stpetersmontague@gmail.com stpetersbythelake.weebly.com Reclaim the Promise!

82 S. Wythe St. in Pentwater (231) 869-7351 Join Us For Worship Sundays at 10 a.m. joinus@stjamesepiscopalpentwater.org We Believe That God Loves You - No Exceptions 5 63 1 W. Stony Lake Rd. New Era, MI 4944 6 • 2 3 1 -86 1 - 4 0 59 office@tlcnewera.org

St. Stephen’s Lutheran Church (LCMS)

7410 W. Johnson Rd., Shelby • 231-861-2952 Sunday Service: 9:30 a.m. Summer Outdoor Service Rev. Kurt Overway StStephensShelby@gmail.com

Community volunteerism abounds at PALC

By Ron Beeber

The Oceana Echo Volunteer Contributor

The U.S.S. Sequoia was a 104-foot-long yacht that was used by U.S. presidents between 1936 and 1977 before being taken out of government service. Since then, the Sequoia has had seven different owners, and it made a stop in Pentwater in 1984. According to Wikipedia, the vessel is now in Cambridge, Md., where it’s undergoing a five-year, $15 million renovation.

A highly detailed, nine-foot, 500-pound scale model of the “floating presidential Oval Office” was donated to the Pentwater Historical Society (PHS), and it will soon be put on display in the admission-free museum. But the museum faced a real challenge because it lacked a strong enough table or other base on which to place such a heavy artifact for public viewing.

PHS Secretary Dan Girvan came to the rescue. After moving from Whitehall to Pentwater in May of 2022 with his wife, Jenny Lynn, he joined the PHS as a trustee. He also joined the Pentwater Artisan Learning Center (PALC), where he increased his woodworking skills.

“I had some knowledge, but not

a lot,” he explained. “After building all of the cabinetry in our new home in Pentwater and getting a lot better, I wound up building the base for the Sequoia model at the Artisan Center. Other Artisan Center members have been a great resource for me to learn from,” he added. “There are some really skilled members, like Jim Crum. And Gene Davidson really taught me a lot before he died 18 months ago.”

Girvan jokingly tells people that he’s going to be a really good cabinet maker - in another 10 years!

“I don’t buy finished wood,” Girvan continued. “On this project, I started with rough-sawn poplar and milled it right here.” He’s spent more than 60 hours to date design-

ing and building the base. “When I began, the only info I had was that the model was nine feet long and weighed almost 500 pounds. This base isn’t from a kit; each piece had to be hand-made.”

The scale model Sequoiaplaced atop Girvan’s hand-built base was unveiled Sunday, June 23, at a ticketed, public event along Pentwater Channel to celebrate the museum’s 10th anniversary. It was actually two events in one. Tours of the historic Graynook and Breezewood cottages were offered, and attendees got a sneak peek at the Sequoia scale model. The model was then moved to the museum.

Handiwork of PALC members often leads to some sort of community benefit like this. The nonprofit Learning Center last year began replacing outdated, non-working, unsafe, or unrepairable equipment; and has so far raised $175,000 of its $250,000 capital campaign goal to equip it for the next 20 years. This Pentwater crown jewel welcomes tax-deductible donations, bequeaths, endowments, and corporate matching gifts. More information can be found by going to www.oceanafoundation.org/ give/our-funds/ and then searching the term “Pentwater Artisan.” Or visit www.pentwaterartisan.org, or call 231-869-5323.

The Sound of Music delights sold out crowds

Tails of Hope

Say “Hello” to Trey! Trey is two years old and weighs about 50 pounds. He was neutered on August 19. Trey is an energetic young boy who likes to play, and he does very well on his daily walks with a leash. Trey is a favorite among the shelter volunteers.

Trey is available for adoption from the Oceana County Animal Shelter. If interested, please call the shelter at 231-861-5395. The adoption fee for cats is $35, and you receive certificates for $25 towards spay/neuter and $10 towards rabies if not already done. The adoption fee for dogs is $95 and you will receive a $50 certificate good for spay/ neuter, if needed. Every dog should have an ID tag. L.A.S.S.I. provides free dog ID tags to all Oceana County residents. To request tags, send a text to 231-730-3906. Free tags are also available at the Oceana County Animal Shelter.

Meet Trey

JOB POSTING

VILLAGE OF SHELBY

DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS

DPW LABORER (PARK MAINTENANCE)

The Village of Shelby is seeking applicants for a full-time DPW Park Maintenance Laborer within its Department of Public Works. The selected applicant will perform a wide range of semiskilled labor and equipment operation in support of the Department of Public Works operations.

The person’s focus will be on the maintenance, repair and construction of Village parks, and include activity involving Village streets, buildings, vehicles, equipment, and water and sewer infrastructure as needed. Depending on workload, this person may operate equipment ranging from a lawn mower to a pickup with plow.

Regular shift hours are Monday through Friday from 7:00 AM to 3:30 PM. Occasional weekend hours for emergencies and special events.

The ideal candidate will be able to operate vehicles of various sizes and weights in the loading, hauling and unloading of equipment; operate construction or power equipment; provide skilled maintenance and repair tasks; basic maintenance of DPW machinery; provide snow and ice removal; mow, trim, and fertilize grass, prune and spray trees and shrubs; and, provide other DPW related work as required.

The salary range is $36,704 to $44,761.00 depending on qualifications. Additional benefits include health insurance, defined contribution match for retirement, paid time off, and eleven (11) observed paid holidays.

Applicants should submit a completed application and resume to: Village Clerk Village of Shelby 218 N. Michigan Ave. Shelby, MI 49455 Or email: clerk@shelbyvillage.com For questions, contact Village Hall at (231) 861-4400. Applications must be submitted by no later than September 6, 2024, at 4:30 PM.

D an G irvan

The Hart Community Performing Arts Association presented three performances of “The Sound of Music” this past weekend at the Hart Public Schools auditorium. Mercedes Gale, above left, played Maria Rainer, the novice turned governess then stepmother to the Von Trapp children: Leisl (Lorelai Page), Friedrich (Josh McGhan), Louisa (Olivia DeBrot), Kurt (Connor DeWitt), Brigitta (Melody Kasza), Marta (Megan Vandezande) and Gretl (Yvette Kokx). Kendra Larios-Mendez, above right and below center, led the nuns as the Mother Abbess. She is surrounded by, from left, Sister Margaretta (Natalie Adams), Sister Sophia (Grace McGhan) and Sister Berthe (Dorothy Vandezande). Jesse Bowman, below right center, was Captain Von Trapp during the Friday and Sunday performances. He is shown with Elsa Schrader (Maggie Bowman) and Max Detweiler (Rob Splane).

• Photos by Hannah Rebekah, storiesbyHR.com

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• On Sept. 2, 1945, Vietnamese communist Ho Chi Minh declared Vietnam’s independence from France following Japan’s World War II surrender, in a proclamation stating, “All men are born equal: the Creator has given us inviolable rights, life, liberty, and happiness!” It would take another 30 years for his vision of a united communist Vietnam to become a reality, however.

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By Lucie Winborne

• On Sept. 3, 2004, a hostage crisis at School No. 1 in Beslan, Russia ended in a gun battle between Chechen terrorists and Russian security forces. More than 300 people were killed, many of them children, and hundreds more were injured. The terrorists’ demands included the withdrawal of Russian troops from Chechnya.

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By Lucie Winborne

• On Sept. 4, 2014, comedian Joan Rivers died at the age of 81 in a New York City hospital a week after she went into cardiac arrest while undergoing a medical procedure on her vocal cords at a Manhattan clinic. In a career that lasted more than 50 years, Rivers fearlessly tackled any subject she chose, remarking that she “succeeded by saying what everyone else is thinking.”

• “I used double-faced tape to stick a couple of clothespins inside the cabinet under my sink. I can hang my gloves under the sink when I am finished with the dishes.” — T.C. in Minnesota

• Help nylons and tights retain elasticity by giving them a final rinse in diluted vinegar before hanging dry. Never add nylons to a heat dryer.

• “I purchase extra school supplies when back-to-school time brings the sales. Inevitably, we need extras as the school year wears on, and these items can be pricier later.” — Y.C. in Alabama

• When Texas was its own sovereign nation in the mid-1800s, it briefly had a diplomatic mission in Paris.

• In 1939, George Bernard Dantzig, a graduate student at the University of California, Berkeley, arrived late for a statistics class and copied the two problems on the blackboard, assuming they were the homework, then handed them in a few days later. Several weeks afterward, he was awakened by his professor’s excited knock at the door: The “homework” was actually unsolved problems in statistics that Dantzig had managed to prove.

• Since avocados never ripen on trees, farmers can use the trees as a way to store and keep the fruit fresh for up to seven months.

• On Sept. 5, 1991, a group of activists made their way to the roof of Sen. Jesse Helms’ home and unrolled a giant piece of fabric that was then inflated by their companions on the front lawn. Their message? “A CONDOM TO STOP UNSAFE POLITICS: HELMS IS DEADLIER THAN A VIRUS”— a decidedly innovative response to the senator’s strong opposition to gay rights and the funding of AIDS research and treatment.

• “A tip for setting your table: Always put pretty plastic placemats on the table first. Then your pretty cloth napkins and placemats over these. When you’re ready to eat, just remove cloth placemats and napkins and you’ll still have a pretty table to serve your guests.” — J.R. in Virginia

• Maine is the closest U.S. state to Africa.

• It’s a sweetly romantic tradition for the post offices of Romeo, Michigan, and Juliette, Georgia, to offer a special dual postmark leading up to Valentine’s Day.

• As comedian Bob Hope lay on his deathbed in 2003, his wife Dolores asked where he’d like to be buried. His reply? “Surprise me.”

• On Sept. 6, 1975, 18-year-old Martina Navratilova, today regarded as one of the greatest tennis players in history, sought political asylum in the United States after defecting from communist Czechoslovakia.

• Ease the weekday morning time crunch by planning your wardrobe on the weekends. Use a single hanger to gather everything you need for a smart, pulled-together look. Attach a plastic sandwich bag with accessories to the hanger with a clothespin, and you’ll be dressed in minutes.

• The three dots on the Domino’s Pizza logo represent the chain’s three original locations. Co-founder Tom Monaghan originally planned to add a new dot for every pizzeria he opened.

• On Sept. 7, 1876, the Jesse JamesCole Younger gang was nearly wiped out by angry citizens after attempting a daytime robbery of the Northfield Minnesota bank. For the next two weeks, a posse pursued the surviving members, eventually killing or capturing four more, but Frank and Jesse James ended up in Nashville, TN, where they began rebuilding the gang and planning more robberies.

• On Sept. 8, 1504, Michelangelo’s 17-foot-tall, 12,000-pound marble masterpiece of the biblical shepherd boy David was unveiled to the public in Florence, Italy.

• If your bananas start to brown on the outside, put them in the fridge. They will still get brown, but the inside stays firm instead of getting mushy.

Send your tips to Now Here’s a Tip, 628 Virginia Drive, Orlando, FL 32803.

• Female bats give birth while hanging upside down, catching the baby in their wings.

• England’s King Richard the Lionheart spent a mere six months of his 10-year reign in England, being there only briefly in 1189 and 1194.

• At the end of 1914, when Russia was fighting in World War I, the country’s army had 6,553,000 men, but just 4,652,000 rifles.

***

Thought for the Day: “Happy is the person who knows what to remember of the past, what to enjoy in the present and what to plan for in the future.” — Arnold H. Glasow

First annual Shelby Fruit Festival

Hundreds attended the first annual Shelby Fruit Festival this past Saturday at the new Shelby Township Park. There were games, food, music, crafts, a car show and more, along with a ribboncutting to officially open the new park. “Saturday’s ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new park and the Fruit Festival event was the successful result of years of hard work – planning, designing, raising money and building. When you visit the park for the first time or multiple times, you’ll see all the attention to detail of that work – there’s something for everyone. I’m thrilled that so many partners valued this unique opportunity to invest together in a top-notch asset that has exceeded expectations. We are so lucky to live in Oceana County – we’ve always had phenomenal natural resources; now we have the best recreational resources,” Oceana Community Foundation CEO Tammy Carey and cochair of the Shelby Township Park planning committee said about the successful event. Earl and Linda Peterson, above, were joined by Senator Jon Bumstead to cut the ribbon and officially open the new park after Shelby Township Supervisor Richard Raffaelli, and Carey’s co-chair, gave a speech about the importance of this project for the community.

• Amanda Dodge/Echo and Joe Klimovitz

Shelby Township to host public meeting regarding

new Sports Complex development

Shelby Township is inviting all residents to participate in a public meeting on Tuesday, Sept. 3, 2024, at 6 p.m. to discuss the development of a new 40,000-square-foot Sports Complex. The meeting will take place at Shelby Township Hall, 204 N. Michigan Ave. in Shelby, and will offer the community an opportunity to provide input on the amenities and programs they would like to see incorporated into the complex.

This meeting is a critical step in ensuring that the Sports Complex reflects the needs and desires of the Shelby Township community. The township is eager to hear from residents about what features and activities would best serve the community, from recreational sports to wellness programs and beyond.

For those unable to attend the meeting in person, a virtual attendance option is available via Zoom at https://us02web.zoom.us/j/3322419785?pwd=QzNNeklsRXIzV2p3VVdhOS9aQVVMZz09.

Shelby Township Supervisor Richard Raffaelli emphasized the importance of community involvement: “This Sports Complex is being developed with our residents in mind. We encourage everyone to share their ideas and help shape a facility that will benefit the entire community for years to come.”

The township is committed to making the Sports Complex a space that fosters physical activity, community engagement, and overall well-being. Your input is vital to making this vision a reality.

For more information about the Shelby Township Community & Sports Center, please contact Shelby Township at (231) 861-5853 or info@shelbytownshipoceana.com.

Congratulations on all of your hard work this year raising your animal for the 4-H Large and Small Market Livestock Auctions!

If you would like to say thank you to the local business that purchased your animal, The Oceana Echo and White Lake Mirror are here for you!

We offer three full-color ad sizes, We also have options for businesses too.

Please contact Jan Thomas at 616-581-5635 or jthomas@ oceanaecho.com

One Shot Wonders

A recap of the best hole-in-one action on courses in Oceana County Benona Shores GC

• Aug. 13 - Raymond Hacker III on hole 18 from 170 yards out with a nine degree driver.

• Aug. 21 - Dave Lorenz on hole 13 from 183 yards out using a nine wood.

HESPERIA BOYS FIND SUCCESS AT BAKER WOODS INVITE, GIRLS WITH LIMITED RETURNS

By: Brendan Samuels

The Oceana Echo Sports Editor

HESPERIA – Though they were overshadowed by a large group of runners from Allendale, Hesperia’s boys cross country team had a strong showing on their home course Wednesday, Aug. 21. Baker Woods is notoriously one of the most difficult courses to run. The rough terrain and mixture of hills and valleys can make for a treacherous race. Those who prevail are greeted with the same sentiment: if you can survive this race, you can survive anything.

A trio of Panthers not only survived the course they spent a large amount of time on, but came away with some impressive times as well. Sophomore Nate Ruhstorfer was the leader of the pack for Hesperia, scoring a seventh place finish and a time of 20:45.20. That was the best time for any runner that didn’t

Hesperia’s Nate Ruhstorfer rounds a corner during the Baker Woods Invite. • Brendan Samuels/ECHO

don the white and red of Allendale.

Six runners from Allendale crossed the finish line before Ruhstorfer, and three more crossed before the next Panther was able to get to the finish line. That Panther was junior Zack Temple who finished in 15th overall with a time of 22:53.30.

Senior Andrew Sherburn led the pack for the first mile of the race, but couldn’t keep pace at the front of the group. Sher-

HART SHOWS PROMISE IN HOME TOURNAMENT, FALLS SHORT OF CLAIMING CHAMPIONSHIP TROPHY

By: Brendan Samuels

The Oceana Echo Sports Editor

HART – A bit of mystery has surrounded Hart’s boys soccer program heading into the 2024 season. The Pirates had a chance to shine some light on what the upcoming season could be, claiming second place in their home tournament Saturday, Aug. 17.

The Pirates returned a slew of talent, only losing one senior to graduation in the spring. Senior leaders this year include Tyler Larios-Mendez and Adan Cruz. Cruz currently sits within reaching distance of Hart’s all-time record for assists.

Kicking off the tournament with a familiar face, Hart got a shot at neighboring Pentwater – a division four foe. The Falcons claimed victory in the same tournament in 2023, though that rendition of the Hart Invite took place near October and allowed all teams to establish an identity and pace prior to play.

The Falcons showed their vigor early in the match with Hart as senior Will Werkema-Grondsma broke through Hart’s back line on a pass from Jonny Arnouts. Werkema-Grondsma fired his shot past Hart keeper Miguel Escamilla to put Pentwater ahead 1-0.

“That’s classic Hart, we never start games fast,” Hart head coach Joe Gilbert said. “I don’t know what it is. I keep trying different things to try and get up quickly. I knew if we were patient and played to what we were set up to do, that we would eventually get there.”

Hart junior Rivaldo Gonza -

lez stole the show for his team from that point on. Gonzalez was a key part of notching the equalizer for the Pirates, converting on a set piece with teammate Adrian Belmares. Gonzalez – a set piece specialist – made it two in a row just minutes later, once again connecting with Belmares, this time on a corner kick opportunity to put Hart up 2-1.

“A couple of really nice set pieces for Rivaldo Gonzalez,” Gilbert said. “We’ve run the same set pieces for the last eight years. I ran the same set pieces when I was in high school, so don’t fix what ain’t broke. Adrian (Belmares) is great in the air and Rivaldo has a good dead ball play.”

The Pirates put the gas pedal to the floor to close out the first half, scoring once more on a solo run from Emmanuel Ortega on the left side of the pitch. Pentwater’s keeper Kaleb Brown made a grave mistake, moving out of net and leaving Ortega with a wide target to increase the lead to 3-1.

“My middle defenders did a heck of a job,” Pentwater head coach Ralph Achterhof said. “It was just too much of a disorganized mess for a while. Some of the guys are new on the team, but that’s no excuse.”

The second half ticked away rather quickly, but Hart was still able to add an additional pair of goals to their lead. After a corner kick created a scrum in front of the net, Larios-Mendez legged a ball and sent it flying high in the air.

Freshman Kevin Hernandez found the volley and connected to push the lead to 4-1. Ortega finished the first match of the day with a direct shot into the far corner of the net on a

free kick that hooked around a wall of Pentwater defenders. In their next game, Hart took on Maple City Glen Lake, coming away with a 5-2 victory in a heated affair. The Pirates struck first on a well placed shot from Larios-Mendez on an assist from Gonzalez. Glen Lake evened things up quickly to tie the game at 1-1.

Hart found themselves with a deficit early in the second half, watching Glen Lake use their speed to break free just 30 seconds after halftime. The Lakers took a 2-1 lead and left the Pirates with some work to do.

That work got done in ample quality. Hart went on to score four unanswered goals to close out the game with a win. An injury to Larios-Mendez seemed to spark the Pirates as they played the remainder of the game without him.

Scoring the final four goals of the game for Hart came from a dynamic duo as Belmares and Cruz each scored a pair.

The final game of the day for the Pirates was a 3-0 loss to Brooklyn Columbia Central (BCC). With injuries biting, Hart was limited to just 16 players as Larios-Mendez and freshman Colton Samuels both left at various points in the day with ailments. That led to Hart being over-run for the majority of the third game.

Gilbert was pleased with his team’s efforts, scoring 10 goals in total and starting the year off with a 2-1 overall record.

The Pirates will prepare for the start of conference play as they travel north to Ludington Monday, Aug. 26 for a Western Michigan Conference battle with the Orioles.

HART • HESPERIA • PENTWATER • SHELBY • WALKERVILLE

Hart’s Emmanuel Ortega leaps into the air to meet the ball with his head during a 5-1 win over Pentwater, Saturday, Aug. 17. • Brendan Samuels/ECHO

Hart senior Adan Cruz fights through a pack of Glen Lake defenders on his way to the opponent’s net. Cruz notched two goals during Hart’s home tournament, Saturday, Aug. 17. • Brendan Samuels/ECHO

Baker Woods

burn finished behind Temple in 16th place with a time of 23:04.10.

The remainder of Hesperia’s finishers were near the end of the pack. Juniors Jacob Priese and Dain Kraus were locked in a dead sprint to the finish line with Priese (27:28.50) edging Kraus (27:29) by just 10 milliseconds. Priese finished in 32nd place while Kraus took 33rd.

Junior Kolt Milner finished soon after that pair, taking 35th with a time of 27:51.50. A pair of freshmen and a pair of juniors came next for Hesperia as Keegan Roberson (28:34) took 37th, Matice Nichols (33:55.10) took 39th, John Dagen (34:05.80) took 40th and Lance Smith (38:42.80) finished in 44th place.

The Panthers took third out of five schools on the boys side, scoring a team total of 77 points.

Hesperia only had two female competitors in the girls race. Sophomore Rokhaya Ruhstorfer was able to grab 15th place with a time of 31:01.40. Junior Elyssa Wright snagged 26th place with a time of 36:52.90.

continued from page 10

The Panthers will be back in action Saturday, Aug. 24 as they join a crowd of nearly 30 schools including Hart, Shelby and Pentwater for the annual Pete Moss Invite in Benzie.

PENTWATER SOCCER DOWNS

NEWAYGO WITHOUT FULL ARSENAL

By: Brendan Samuels

The Oceana Echo Sports Editor

PENTWATER – In the words of Pentwater boy soccer coach Ralph Achterhof, the events leading up to the team’s 1-0 victory over Newaygo, Monday, Aug. 19 could be summed up as “a bad day at the office.”

Following a less than ideal performance at the Hart Invite tournament Saturday, Aug. 17, Pentwater was hit with even more bad news.

Seniors Will Werkema-Grondsma and Jonny Arnouts both came away from the tournament with injuries and Lucas Werekema-Grondsma was in dire straits as well with a swollen knee.

Will and Jonny were both held out of the Falcons’ matchup with Newaygo, but Lucas gave it a go, ultimately playing the game out in its entirety.

The Falcons showed a lot of improvement in a few days’ time, displaying more aggression against the Lions. The back line for Pentwater was most impressive as senior Trey Johnson and Lucas did a great job at clearing out chances and keeping Newaygo’s offense out of dangerous zones.

“It’s the beginning of the season, but Trey and Lucas did a tremendous job on defense,” Pentwater head coach Ralph Achterhof said. “Lucas was still hurt from Saturday and was questionable to play in the second half, but he decided to keep going. The win is good, but we have a lot to do better.”

On the few occasions that a Newaygo striker did make it past Johnson and Lucas, senior keeper Kaleb Brown was able to save the ball from bounding into the net. Brown finished his day against Newaygo with 15 saves.

MHSAA PROVIDES HEAT MANAGEMENT REMINDERS

A stretch of hot and humid days downstate to finish July provided another reminder of why acclimatization to weather conditions is essential as teams at Michigan High School Athletic Association schools prepare for their first fall practices this month.

Each year, the MHSAA provides information to its member schools to help them prepare for hot weather practice and game conditions during the late summer and early fall. Practices for all Fall 2024 sports – cross country, football, Lower Peninsula girls golf, boys soccer, Lower Peninsula girls swimming & diving, Lower Peninsula boys and Upper Peninsula girls tennis, and volleyball – may began Monday, Aug. 12.

moving practices to different locations or different times of day, or change practice plans to include different activities depending on the conditions. Furthermore, football practice rules allow for only helmets to be worn during the first two days, only shoulder pads to be added on the third and fourth days, and full pads to not be worn until the fifth day of team practice.

“I called Kaleb’s performance on Saturday ‘the wild west,’” Achterhof said. “I told him he can’t be doing that anymore. He smartened his act up today and played well. Kaleb is a modern day goalie that likes to come out and kick the ball, and he does well with that.”

Newaygo’s speed proved to be too much for shorthanded Pentwater for a majority of the game. It wasn’t until the end of the first half that Pentwater took the lead over the Lions, taking advantage of some luck.

Though Brody Austin was given credit for netting that shot, the ball clearly struck a Newaygo defender’s foot and powered past his own keeper to put the Falcons on top 1-0.

Pentwater moved to 1-3 on the year with the win, with all those games coming against non-conference opponents. The Falcons will get play started in the West Michigan D League as they host Big Rapids Crossroads Thursday, Aug. 29.

The “Health & Safety” page of the MHSAA Website (https://www. mhsaa.com/about/looking-general-resources/health-safety/ heat-hydration-resources) has links to several information sources, including the MHSAA preseason publication Heat Ways, which is available for download and includes valuable information on heat management in addition to requirements and resources regarding head injuries, sudden cardiac arrest and emergency action plans. Emergency action plans specific to sport and venue are a new requirement for schools beginning this fall season.

The first days of formal practices in hot weather should be more for heat acclimatization than the conditioning of athletes, and practices in such conditions need planning to become longer and more strenuous over a gradual progression of time. Schools also must consider

The MHSAA advises student-athletes to make sure to hydrate all day long – beginning before practice, continuing during and also after practice is done. Water and properly-formulated sports drinks are the best choices for hydration.

A number of member schools follow the MHSAA’s Model Policy for Managing Heat & Humidity, which while not mandated for member schools was adopted as a rule for MHSAA postseason competition in 2013. The plan directs schools to begin monitoring the heat index at the activity site once the air temperature reaches 80 degrees, and provides recommendations when the heat index reaches certain points, including ceasing activities when it rises above 104 degrees. (When the temperature is below 80 degrees, there is no combination of heat and humidity that will result in a need to curtail activity.) The model heat & humidity policy is outlined in a number of places on the MHSAA Website, including as part of Heat Ways.

SHELBY SOCCER UNABLE TO EARN WIN IN FIRST TWO CONTESTS

By: Brendan Samuels The Oceana Echo Sports Editor

SHELBY – Shelby boys soccer program began a new era Friday, Aug. 16, breaking in a new field and a new head coach with a 1-1 draw in a non-conference opener with Sparta.

Damian Gonzalez, a first year head coach, encouraged the Tigers to fight hard for a win, hoping to break in the Shelby Community Park’s new field with a win. Unfortunately, Shelby didn’t have quite enough to draw ahead of their competition, resulting in a tie.

The Tigers started the game off strong, scoring on a ball that was deflected by the Spartan keeper. Junior Alex Dealmonte was there to clean up the rebound, putting the Tigers in front 1-0 in the first half.

Sparta didn’t stay quiet however. The Spartans stormed back and earned a free kick opportunity, testing freshman keeper Josh Vega

early. Vega was unable to stop the ball from finding the net, evening the score at 1-1 where it stayed for the remainder of the game. Ultimately, the night was cut short due to storm delays, sending Shelby to their next matchup, an away game with the Eagles of Kent City.

Shelby wasn’t nearly as strong in that outing, falling by a score of 5-1.

Kent City’s possession and quickness proved to be too much for Shelby as the Tigers struggled to get things going on offense. Vega was forced to make 17 saves on 22 shots in that game.

Shelby’s lone goal in that outing came deep in the second half on a corner kick that fell perfectly at the feet of senior Isaias Cortinas. Cortinas fired the shot high to the left corner to put the Tigers on the board.

The Tigers sit at 0-1-1 on the season and will look to start off conference play on the right foot when they travel to Montague for a meeting with the Wildcats, Monday, Aug. 26.

Hesperia’s Rokhaya Ruhstorfer eyes the runner ahead of her as she looks to make a pass during the Baker Woods Invite. •

Brendan Samuels/ECHO

Pentwater’s Trey Johnson clears a ball from the Falcons’ own territory during a 1-0 win over Newaygo, Monday, Aug. 19. •

Brendan Samuels/ECHO

White Lake Mirror

White Lake Mirror White Lake Mirror

YOUR LOCALLY OWNED AND OPERATED NONPROFIT NEWS SOURCE

MasterTag breaks ground on new building

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

MONTAGUE — MasterTag hosted a ceremonial groundbreaking Wednesday afternoon at its Water Street headquarters to celebrate the beginning of construction of its new production facility, which it hopes is completed by fall 2025.

The facility, which will eventually replace the existing production building on Walsh Road, moved forward in June when Montague Township approved a 12-year 50% tax abatement for it. The new building, MasterTag says, will streamline production at the company.

MasterTag was purchased by Avery Products in 2022 but continues to operate out of its Montague buildings. At that time, facilities manager Chris Beck said the company was investing about $26 million into the expansion.

“Right now at Walsh, we’ve got incoming and outgoing through the

same doors,” Beck said. “We are constantly moving product to make room for other product...Here, we’ll have raw material come in one door and it’s going to go in racks and then from the racks to the press from the press to die cut, die cut to converting, and converting to out the door.

“The streamlining, the cost savings alone on that, is huge.”

Several MasterTag higher-ups spoke at the ceremony, thanking past and present employees for helping the company get to the point it has now reached and outlining how the new building will improve its operations.

“It’s all right here, one campus, one team working together to strive for those new things that we all hope for for our customers,” senior director of commercial and administration Jennifer Dyer said in public remarks. “We are just tremendously excited about the speed that will bring to communication, the speed that will bring to

Key figures in the MasterTag

Rick Hughes, former president, owner and CEO; Julie Rice, executive director of operations; John Calkins, director of engineering; and Jillian Novosad, director of sales. • Andy Roberts/Mirror

problem solving together.”

“Anyone who works at our current facility knows that our process flow is not straight,” executive director of operations Julie Rice said in her own re-

marks. “We are not lean. We do not go from one step to the other and each of

Whitehall names interim superintendent

CJ Van Wieren unanimously approved for job by school board

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

WHITEHALL — Whitehall didn’t have to look far to find its next superintendent of schools, believing the right answer was already in the building.

The school board unanimously appointed assistant superintendent CJ Van Wieren as interim superintendent for the coming academic year at its monthly meeting Monday, following Van Wieren’s presentation of his candidacy. Current superintendent Jerry McDowell is retiring effective Dec.

31 and will work with Van Wieren to help the transition through that date.

The board’s approval of Van Wieren was clear even prior to the official appointment; board member Paula Martin said she was thrilled with Van Wieren’s career trajectory, having worked with him his entire Whitehall career, and treasurer Jimmy TenBrink joked after making the motion to appoint Van Wieren that all the pressure was on now.

During the presentation, Van Wi-

eren emphasized community engagement and transparency, saying he hopes to be able to communicate effectively with all stakeholders in the district. He added, “My favorite word is ‘win,’” going on to say he looks at successes big and small as wins.

Van Wieren said being a superintendent was not on his radar when he first pursued education - he was an elementary school teacher for his first seven years, three of them at Whitehall’s Ealy Elementary - but as his career progressed, he found himself drawn to leadership roles. Van Wieren, who until this season was also offensive coordinator for the Vikings’ football team, became principal of Whitehall Middle School in 2016 before moving into the assistant superintendent role last year.

“I feel like I’ve gravitated towards those roles my whole life,” Van Wieren said. “As I was a middle school principal for a few years and joined the (Superintendent Professional Preparation Series Academy), that’s what really started to change my mindset of what you can do at different levels of leadership.”

McDowell said Van Wieren has long impressed at Whitehall with his willingness to take on any challenge that could improve the school district.

“CJ has always been somebody who’s taken on extra initiatives or expressed interest in learning more about school leadership and building

New hire continued on page 2

Muskegon friends enjoy time ‘on the rocks’

By Jerry Mattson White Lake Mirror Contributor

‘On the rocks’ is usually thought of as a drink request, but not for those driving ‘rock crawlers’ in an off-road park, like Twisted Trails in Copemish, Michigan.

During the weekend of Aug. 3, 22 guys from the Muskegon area, ranging in age from 18 to 74, camped at this location and spent time with their crawlers driving up and over boulders and pieces of concrete on an uphill course. The process was slow, and several guys waiting to take their turn at it were directing drivers which way to maneuver over the obstacles. The course was not always the same, as passing crawlers often dislodged boulders along the way. While watching for about an hour,

everyone made it to the top and completed the run.

Siblings Donna and Dale Humphrey own this 400-acre park, the largest privately owned park of this type in Michigan. This year, their 16 special events are scheduled from Jan. 13 to Sept. 28. Their three Dog Party events are particularly popular. The first two of those are one-day events that take place in February and March and the final one, in early August, is a three-day event. With warmer weather, this is the only one where camping is allowed.

The February party was listed as the 43rd annual, but they have not all been held here. The first one was in a farm-

Rock crawlers continued on page 2

Van Wieren

Key figures in the MasterTag facility expansion ceremonially break ground on the new building Wednesday afternoon. From left are Brad VanBergen, founder of Winberg Construction; Kurt Wolffis, project manager at Concept Design Studio; and MasterTag figures Christopher Beck, quality and maintenance manager; Jennifer Dyer, senior director of commercial and administration; Rick Hughes, former president, owner and CEO; Julie Rice, executive director of operations; John Calkins, director of engineering; and Jillian Novosad, director of sales. • Andy Roberts/Mirror

Adam Woodring (right) brought his son Kyle to Copemish’s Twisted Trails off-road park Aug. 1-3, one of several such parks he and other Muskegon-area natives have traveled to over the years with their ‘rock crawler’ vehicles. • Jerry Mattson/Mirror

Van Wieren

facility expansion ceremonially break ground on the new building Wednesday afternoon. From left are Brad VanBergen, founder of Winberg Construction; Kurt Wolffis, project manager at Concept Design Studio; and MasterTag figures Christopher Beck, quality and maintenance manager; Jennifer Dyer, senior director of commercial and administration;

Montague council debates unoccupied parcel

By Madison Lajewski White Lake Mirror Writer

MONTAGUE — At its regular monthly meeting Monday, Montague’s city council continued a discussion of what to do with a Ferry Street parcel that began at its last meeting in July. At that previous meeting, city manager Jeff Auch announced that the proposal for the Ferry Street development project has expired. The development was approved for Dean Weaver, who purchased the parcel. Weaver proposed a two- or three-story building that would include both commercial and residential space. Due to disagreements between Newco Design Build LLC and the council on the aesthetics of the proposed building, nothing was confirmed and construction never started.

At Monday’s meeting, the council discussed what to do with the parcel until another development plan is gathered and proposed. All council members stressed the importance of reserved parking for residential units, in addition to parking for the com-

mercial retail space. Councilman Paul Schultz shared his concern of the concept being too large and invading the space of other surrounding businesses, like Johnson’s and Dog n’ Suds. Some council members are worried if the building is three stories tall, it will look strange next to other buildings and businesses nearby.

Councilwoman Susan Newhof proposed a market study be conducted and that council gather a master plan for their requirements before accepting any proposals from contractors. She also shared her concerns over Weaver and other contractors’ “intentions” of the development, such as being more focused on the financial benefits rather than “watching the city flourish.” Councilman Bob Hires added that he wants to know what the tax benefits would be. This concern is due to Hires’ ongoing goal of decreasing tax costs in Montague. Auch said he would find an estimate.

Overall, a majority of council members agreed a development would be beneficial to the city and anticipated

Rock crawlers

er’s field where people brought their dogs to ride with them on off-road machines. Over the years, dog parties continued to grow larger and the base of operations relocated a few times in this general area. About 18 years ago, the Humphreys began hosting them at Twisted Trails.

The Muskegon rock crawlers ranged from a modified CJ Jeep to completely rebuilt production vehicles - including a Ford Explorer and a Jeep Grand Wagoneer - to full-custom, tube-chassis buggies. Common components are a 1-ton Dana 60 front axle and a 14-bolt GM rear axle with a 5:13 gear ratio.

During the four years Adam Woodring has owned his 1997 Ford Explorer, he has continually modified and upgraded the vehicle, including replacing parts with the items listed above. With reducing weight and adding safety features, the only Explorer parts remaining are the engine, transmission and two three-foot sections of the frame. His son Kyle, 18, now also drives the crawler and helps work on it.

New hire

communities,” McDowell said. “As his time in our school district continued, it was evident that he was someone that would be able to lead this community in the future.

“For me, he’s a natural fit. He loves Whitehall, believes in kids, and is a strong advocate for our people in Whitehall to be the best they can be.”

When Van Wieren was made assistant superintendent last summer - at the time, he also took on athletic director responsibilities - he knew it could be a stepping stone to become a superintendent, preferably at Whitehall. McDowell’s retirement announcement last month - he is taking the position of executive director of the Michigan Elementary and Middle School Principals’ Association - set the stage for Van Wieren to take his next step up the ladder.

“I’m excited for this opportunity for CJ,” McDowell said. “It’s a privilege to work with him over the years and help him in his journey toward leadership.”

Factory-built vehicles, including a Polaris RZR, a Kawasaki Mule and a Honda Talon, were among this campsite’s four-wheelers.

Tire names include Super Swamper (Interco) and Baja Boss (Mickey Thompson) and range in diameter from 40 to 43 inches. Tires can cost up to $1,000 each for super sticky ones. These tires become stickier as they become warmer. Spinning tires, trying to get a grip on a hard surface (boulder or concrete), heat up in a hurry.

These guys circled the wagons at their camping area. The wagons in this case included motorhomes, fifthwheel trailers and other open trailers for hauling the boy-toys. For them the “dog party” included grilling four dozen hot dogs on a grill, then putting what was not taken in the first course into an empty cooler to keep them warm.

“Some weekends, we have as many as 1,000 people here,” said Donna. “We are all here just to have fun.”

Others enjoy having fun here too, as Donna has seen younger family

continued from page 1

Van Wieren, who grew up in Holland, graduated from Ferris State University in 2008 and earned a master’s from Grand Canyon University two years later, said when he and wife Lindsay moved to Whitehall early in his Viking teaching career, it was the best decision they’d ever made. Their three kids each attend Whitehall schoolsall the more reason for Van Wieren to pour himself into the district.

“You have to really want what’s best for kids and an entire community if you’re going to step into one of these roles, because it’s not always easy, but it’s an opportunity to make a difference and to give back to a community, and then to produce kids that hopefully are contributors to this community in a positive way,” Van Wieren said. “I’m looking forward to this interim role and being able to try and show everyone that I can do it, and hopefully set us up for some long-term success.”

seeing benefits from additional housing and businesses being available. Auch also addressed the new changes in the vegetation ordinance, including 14 species that are now prohibited in the city. Other restrictions in the ordinance include who is responsible for vegetation on properties, and distance from street curbs and fire hydrants. The changes to this ordinance are mainly to ensure other vegetation is thriving and being appropriately cared for.

At the previous council meeting, a Montague resident voiced her concern and frustration over vicious and dangerous animals in the city. She shared a personal story of her family puppy being attacked by a neighboring dog, the same dog who previously killed their family dog. Auch worked with the city attorney to develop more clear and concise language in their vicious animal ordinance. This included switching from breeds to characteristics, redefining “dangerous animal,” leash and muzzle rules, and confinement and insurance requirements. Violations of

this ordinance can result in tickets or fines from the city and Schultz hopes to give local police more responsibility for this, since animal control is no longer as prominent in Muskegon County. Auch said he will continue working with the city attorney to develop better language in the ordinance.

Mayor Tom Lohman talked about the fireworks committee’s ongoing efforts to improve 4th of July shows and activities in the future. All Montague council members will be actively involved in the development of these improvements, including discussing a survey to be distributed to city residents. The committee and council have also discussed ideas like a fair or other activities between the parade and fireworks, and possible fireworks alternatives that will be better for the environment. Schultz proposed a water test be done on White Lake within 30 minutes of the fireworks to see how damaging the fireworks particles are. He said cities like Saugatuck have noticed blue algae growing as a result of phosphorus and nitrogen in the fireworks.

generations following previous ones in attending events and camping. Some people only come to enjoy the musical entertainment presented on special occasions. (For more information, check out their website, twistedtrails. com.)

Rock crawling can be rough on equipment. Often, someone has to bring a non-running vehicle home to be worked on. On Saturday, Jeff Parmer had to watch the activities, as his Jeep Wrangler JKU was loaded on the trailer the previous day with a broken front universal joint.

MasterTag

the steps of our process in a straight line. We work in a spaghetti string. We will no longer do that.”

MasterTag expressed pride in partnering with local companies on the new building’s construction. Winberg Construction, Boardwell Mechanical Services and Korthase & Sons are among the local businesses that will have a hand in bringing the facility to life.

Beck said “community helping community” has long been a staple of MasterTag, noting it’s a mindset that comes from the top down, as former owner and CEO Rick Hughes has long been a proponent of community involvement.

“You hear Rick talk, and I know it’s not technically his company anymore

Three families were represented by both father and son, as this sport also spans the generations. Some of the guys have been coming to this location for over 20 years, while others, only a few years. Many of these friends have been to Moab, Utah; The Badlands in Attica, Indiana; Black Mountain in Evarts, Kentucky; and Windrock in Oliver Springs, Tennessee. After a day of wheeling and getting hot and dusty, it is time to sit down around the campfire, maybe get another hot dog, and have a drink or two, whether ‘on the rocks’ or from a can. Then the storytelling begins.

continued from page 1

but he still treats it like his company,” Beck said. “He’s always been, whether it’s supporting the Boy Scouts, can drives, the local church, he just does so much for the community, and we wanted to get people in and talk to them and have local contractors. It’s huge for Rick, it’s huge for Julie and Jen, our senior directors. I’m not from this town, but I know the small town (atmosphere), and I know how important it is to have community.”

Beck noted the transition from the Walsh Road production facility to the new building will not happen overnight, because if all goes as planned the new building will be completed during the company’s busiest time of the year. There will be a transition phase as the move happens over time.

Kevin Cooper drives his Jeep Wrangler YJ on the rocks at the Twisted Trails off-road park in Copemish. • Jerry Mattson/Mirror

Saturday, Aug. 24

Montague Farmer’s Market open every Saturday, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Montague Museum open, 1-5 p.m. Donation-based admission.

Sunday, Aug. 25

Steve Thielman performs @ Book Nook & Java Shop for brunch, 10 a.m. to noon.

Montague Museum open, 1-5 p.m. Donation-based admission.

Community Calendar

Monday, Aug. 26

Community Yoga @ Fruitland Twp. Hall, 10-11 a.m. Free to participate ($5 suggested donation), open to all ages and skill levels.

FAN Club live music @ Fetch Brewing, 7 p.m.

Tuesday, Aug. 27

Steve Thielman performs @ Book Nook & Java Shop, 10 a.m. to noon.

Wednesday, Aug. 28

Snacktivity @ MADL Montague

branch, 3-5 p.m. Games, crafts, Lego and more. Snacks provided.

Thursday, Aug. 29

Fetch Cycling Group meets every Thursday at 6 p.m. All levels welcome.

Free general admission every Thursday @ the Muskegon Museum of Art, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Families are invited to White Lake Community Library at 6 p.m. to learn about how MET and MESP can help you save for a loved one’s future edu-

cation. Children are welcome. Register at wlclib.org/calendar.

North Grove Brewers summer concert Thursdays features The Traveling Suitcase, 7 p.m. Outdoor concert in the biergarten.

Friday, Aug. 30

Community Yoga @ Fruitland Twp. Hall, 10 a.m. Free to participate ($5 suggested donation), open to all ages and skill levels.

Echoes of History: Vessels - The A. D. Hayward

By Barbara Bedau Brow Volunteer Contributor

The A. D. Hayward was built in Manitowoc, Wisconsin, by Burger & Burger in 1887 for the White Lake Transportation Co., a partnership composed of M. B. Covell, C. E. Covell, and P. D. Campbell. It was named for Ambrose D. Hayward, who had a long business relationship with the Covell brothers and an interest in one of their mills. The Hayward was a replacement for the R. C. Brittain.

The vessel arrived on WhIte Lake for the first time July 19, 1887 and moored at Covell’s wharf. During the afternoon and evening, swarms of people visited the boat and all were highly pleased with her splendid appointments.

The ship was 145 feet overall in length and 29 feet in width. The wheelhouse was roomy and supplied all the modern conveniences of navigation at the time. There was a spacious cook room and pantry. There were 12 staterooms fitted up with the utmost comfort and some of them furnished ensuite for family use. There was ample accommodation for 40 passengers in the cabin.

The officers of the boat were: Captain Peter D. Campbell; first mate Smith Sanders; second mate E. L. Knudsen; first engineer Emory Christian; and steward I. Berd.

The propeller was expected to easily carry 300,000 feet of lumber and, notwithstanding its increased size over the Brittain, could be about an

hour faster on the run between Whitehall and Chicago.

On Aug. 4, 1887, as the Hayward was moored at the lumberyard of R. L. Henry about four miles up the Chicago River, she met with a terrible disaster. It seems one of the firemen, Herman Fisher, had been giving the boilers a coat of varnish and was about to ascend a ladder leading from the boiler room when his foot slipped and the pail of varnish and lantern he was carrying fell to the floor. In an instant, flames spread everywhere.

A heavy plate covered the hatch, through which Fisher must reach the deck, and he could not remove it. With the fire all about him, Fisher reached his hands up through an opening and called “fire” at the top of his voice. Assistant engineer Dick Hall, who was lying in his bunk near the hatch, heard the alarm and, jumping up, saw Fisher’s hands. Hall got the man out on the deck where a patrol was summoned and Fisher was taken to a hospital for treatment of his wounds.

Engineer Christian started the boat’s pony pump, but the flames spread with such lightning speed that nothing could be done by the crew. A fire tug and steam engine were promptly on hand but despite their efforts, the entire cabin was soon a mass of seething flames. The stern lines were let go and the boat swung out into the middle of the river, where steady streams of water finally got a handle on the fire. It was not stopped, however, until the afterdeck, the elegantly furnished passenger cabins

with all the contents, the deck with the lifeboats and other materials had been burned. About half of the deck load of lumber had been removed and the end of what remained next to the fire was badly charred.

The Hayward was insured for $20,000, and the damage was estimated at $7,000. It is thought the cabin would not be rebuilt that season, but she was repaired for the lumber trade and a new cabin would be put on next winter. The Hayward had made but a few trips since she was finished, but this was the second fire she experienced. The first one occurred when she was lying at Grand Haven and was caused by the melting of a lantern in the engine room.

As for the condition of the injured

fireman, Herman Fisher, reports indicated he had rapidly improved and would soon be out of the hospital.

In July 1888 the White Lake Transportation Co. closed a deal where the propeller A. D. Hayward was sold to S. R. Howell, a lumberman of Chicago. The consideration paid was $30,000. During the winter, the company built the M. B. Covell for the White Lake traffic. The Hayward’s capacity was big, having carried as much as 410,000 feet of lumber in one cargo. The company found it inconvenient to handle her that season, as the trips had been long ones and the low rates made the business barely self-sustaining. Her entire crew, except Capt. Sanders, was retained by the new owner and was thought to be a profitable investment.

In memory of Julie Donahue, friend to the library

By Virginia DeMumbrum Volunteer Contributor

children’s librarian twenty-plus years ago. We are going to miss her smile, her boundless energy, and her friendship.

Kids’ Food Basket Drive

We were deeply saddened to learn of Julie Donahue’s recent passing. Julie was a big library supporter and a staunch member of the Friends of the Library group. She graciously opened her home to host Friends Group luncheons, tirelessly volunteered at book sales, and generously supported a variety of special projects at the library, most recently the new shed to house the Book Bike. I still remember her taking the time to walk me through my very first grant application when I was hired as the

In addition to her love of libraries, Julie had a passion for Kids’ Food Basket, the non-profit agency that provides nutritious sack suppers for many area schoolkids who need them. In memory of Julie, the library will be hosting a food drive for the agency throughout the month of September. We will also have lunch bags available for people to decorate, so that kids get their suppers in a fun and cheerful package. Visit our website at wlclib.org to see a list of most-needed food donations, and stop in anytime in September to decorate a bag or two or three. Thank you for helping us remember our friend.

FUN FACT: 1,831,591 healthy, nourishing meals have been served by Kids’ Food Basket just in the last 12 months. In that same time frame, vol-

unteers donated 73,187 hours of service to help nourish children in our community. Learn more at kidsfoodbasket.org.

Library Closed Sept. 2

The library will be closed Monday, Sept. 2, for the Labor Day holiday. We will be open our normal Saturday hours (10 a.m. to 3 p.m.) that weekend, so stop in for some DIY project books or a beach read, or just to use the restroom and fill your water bottle before you head out on the bike trail!

Read the Newspaper Online at Home

Do you like to read the newspaper, but you’re struggling with increasing subscription prices? Use your library card instead! The library has subscriptions that allow anyone with a White Lake library card to read online newspapers anywhere, anytime. New links on our website make it easier than ever to read current issues of many popular

newspapers, including the Muskegon Chronicle, USA Today, The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, and The Washington Post. Just grab your library card and head to wlclib.org. Select Digital Newspapers under the Research and Reference tab to get started. All you need is your library card and an internet-connected device.

DeMumbrum

The A. D. Hayward shown fully loaded with lumber. • Courtesy Photo

Lake Mirror Lake Mirror

NONPROFIT NEWS SOURCE community

Football season set to kick off next week

Vikings not deterred by graduation losses heading into 2024

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

WHITEHALL — For 10 weeks last year, the Whitehall football team lived up to sky-high expectations, rolling through the regular season unbeaten and easily winning a first-round playoff game. It all came crashing down around them in the district finals, when everything that could go wrong did and the Vikings were stunned by Big Rapids when the Cardinals blocked a potential game-winning field goal attempt.

A lot of skill talent from that team is now graduated - Kyle Stratton, Trannon Aylor, Malcolm Earvin and Darnell Mack are just a few of the departed luminaries - but Vikings’ coach Tony Sigmon isn’t setting his sights any lower.

“People can act like football is over, and the world is over, but we’re as ex-

Montague hopes veteran lines can boost young skill position players

MONTAGUE — Montague enters this season with more settled than it did a year ago, and the Wildcats hope that leads to a more successful campaign after going 3-7 and 4-6 the past two years.

Montague, which had a three-man battle for the starting quarterback position last offseason, decided on junior Eli Petersen as this year’s signal-caller after 2023 quarterback Mason Darke transferred to Reeths-Puffer. Coach Justin Dennett has been impressed with Petersen, who helped the ‘Cats win a 7-on-7 championship at a West Ottawa camp in July.

“It was a good confidence boost for us,” Dennett said of that camp win. “The nice thing about that 7-on-7 was,

cited about this year as we have been any other year,” Sigmon said.

The confidence is high, and it’s a confidence Sigmon feels his team has earned through its offseason work.

“That wasn’t because we did something on a Monday,” Sigmon said of his team’s belief in itself. “That’s over days and weeks and months of really working and getting where we need to be... This has been a very fun (first) week of football, probably some of the most fun I’ve had in a long time.”

Two big reasons for optimism are on offense, where the Vikings come armed with something they didn’t have last year - a seasoned, veteran front line. Three starters are back, including all-conference player Jack Ambrose and honorable mention player Connor Nash. Parker Mott, the team’s leading tackler last year on defense, takes up a third spot. The other two positions will be filled by players who bring more size than the departed seniors - Carter Munroe, Jamison Jeffery and Payton Ossenfort are vying for those two spots.

That should make life easier for

it was more realistic than some of the ones you see where teams aren’t playing their actual defense. This was a little more structured and a way to get better. It was good for us with a new quarterback. It gives him some confidence and gives the guys some confidence in him.”

Petersen played a few different positions on the varsity last year, including at receiver and linebacker. Dennett said he and Petersen agreed that his playing receiver in 2023 gave him a deeper understanding of the offense and prepared him well for his new role.

Petersen won’t have a few of the team’s big 2023 weapons after the graduations of top running back Adam Baird and leading receivers Isaiah Atchison and Paul Olson. However, Dennett is optimistic that can be countered with the team bringing back four starting linemen. David Myers leads the group as the only senior, but juniors Maverick Osborne and Isaac French bring a lot of experience to the front, and Logan Hansen and Elijah Eilers hope to carry over the momentum

from strong finishes to last year.

And though the new skill guys aren’t as experienced, it’s not like the Wildcats are bereft of talent. Riley Mulder is a gifted tight end who has fielded some college attention this

including an offer from Division II Saginaw Valley State, in the offseason; he missed most of last season

R-P building chemistry while breaking in group of new players

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

MUSKEGON — It’s year three for Reeths-Puffer head coach Cody Kater, but in a lot of ways it feels like part two of year one.

The Rockets graduated a slew of talented players from the squads that made playoff appearances each of the past two years, and most of the assistant staff has turned over as well.

On top of that, R-P is set to face one of the toughest schedules in school history, with a loaded O-K Green Conference that brings in Forest Hills North-

ern and Byron Center, plus an opening week game with defending Division 3 state champion Forest Hills Central. Only one Rocket opponent ended last year with a losing record.

Kater, though, is energized. During Friday’s two-a-day practices, he enthusiastically supported the defense in a head-to-head battle with the offense, and taking a cue from youth football club president Dave Muskovin, Kater called in the Muskegon Charter Township fire department to end the

Camden Thompson, who will play quarterback after two seasons at wide receiver, where he led the team in receptions, with 36, and caught eight touchdowns. He’s worked with assis-

tant coach and former Vikings’ signal-caller Casey Huizenga to improve

Whitehall’s Ryan Goodrich carries the ball during practice last Thursday. The Vikings, 10-1 a season ago, are looking to show nothing has changed after the graduation of a successful senior class. • Andy Roberts/Mirror

Whitehall preview continued on page 5

summer,

Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

Montague runs a play during practice last Thursday. The Wildcats aim to bounce back after a pair of losing campaigns the last two seasons. • Andy Roberts/Mirror

Reeths-Puffer quarterback Mason Darke makes his way through traffic during practice Friday afternoon. Darke, a Montague transfer, is set to take the reins for the Rockets in 2024. • Andy Roberts/Mirror

Whitehall preview

his footwork in anticipation of his new duties.

“He’s throwing a much more consistent ball,” Sigmon said. “He’s just a dynamic athlete.”

Thompson, of course, is a second good reason for optimism. A threesport star, Thompson is committed to Western Michigan, where he plans to play both football and basketball. He took the snaps for an unbeaten Whitehall JV team that played a rugged schedule back in his freshman year of 2021 and backed up Stratton last year. There were opportunities to play him more under center in mop-up duty in 2023, but Sigmon assumed if he put a 6-5 super-athlete at quarterback in supposed mop-up duty, it would’ve raised more eyebrows than just leaving Stratton in.

“(Thompson) is more ready than he knows (to play quarterback),” Sigmon said. “Watching him move, there’s a level of competitiveness and aggressiveness, and it makes him very attractive as a football player.”

The Vikings will also be armed with the latest two in what’s been an assembly line of wrestling stars at running back during Sigmon’s tenure. Ryan Goodrich, who got some time last year, steps into the role Darnell Mack previously held, and Gavin Craner, a state champion wrestler who transferred from Belding, has also played the position.

“They’re both seniors,” Sigmon said. “I think, at some point, one of them is just going to explode, and which one that is, I don’t know. Both of them, their potential is astronomical.”

Montague preview

with an injury.

“He’s really improved physically in the last couple seasons,” Dennett said of Mulder. “He’s one of our strongest guys and he still has good speed for his size. He got a lot of attention in the spring and summer. We’re looking forward to him being healthy and being able to utilize him this year.”

Kellan Francis, who was also in last year’s QB derby and played mostly defense last fall, is ready for a bigger role on offense, and Ryver Jarka, last year’s top tackler, is also set to be a key piece of the offense after finishing third on the team in both rushing and receiving.

“We feel like we’ve got some experience out there,” Dennett said. “(Jarka) is a kid we can move around and get the ball in different ways.”

Defensively, Montague is wellstocked. In addition to Jarka and his team-high 97 tackles, Fletcher Thommen is back too after ranking second on the team a year ago. Most of the Wildcats’ top players will get time on both sides of the ball.

“Ideally, we’d love to be able to play guys one way, but given our numbers, we’ll play a lot of guys two ways,” Dennett said. “We’ll have 7-9 two-way guys, but we do feel like we have a little more depth, especially up front on the offensive and defensive lines, where we can sub a little more and keep guys fresh that way.”

Early practices, Dennett said, have been competitive. The team has stronger depth than it has the

past couple years, so the scout teams are putting up good showings as well as the starters.

Montague’s strong schedule has earned it playoff berths each of the past two years, and that shouldn’t change this year. The ‘Cats open at Forest Hills Eastern, an eight-win team last fall; Dennett said the Hawks are a strong team up front and will provide a tough test for the Wildcats’ linemen. Montague will again face North Muskegon and Ravenna in cross-division West Michigan Conference play. Rival Whitehall has handed the Wildcats three straight lopsided defeats, so there will be no lacking for motivation in the battle for the Bell.

Dennett feels the West Michigan Conference Lakes race should be competitive, likening it to his first season as coach, when White-

Mott anchors the defensive unit, and Whitehall feels good about the new crop of athletes in line to fill the gaps that several graduated stars left behind. The work in the weight room has helped; Sigmon said the program is up to four 1,000-pound lifters, a total generally earned through a combination of bench press, squatting and deadlifts.

The Vikings have traditionally scheduled tough under Sigmon, but they’re taking it up even another notch this year. In addition to another matchup with perennial power Unity Christian, Whitehall is taking on 2023 regional champions Portland and Zeeland West, the latter at home. Sigmon said this is probably the toughest schedule his Vikings have ever tackled.

“We could be a very good football

team, but we might be in serious dogfights,” Sigmon said.

The West Michigan Conference Lakes won’t be easy, either, with Montague and Ludington both slated to be improved. Sigmon also expects big things, whether it starts this year or in the future, from Orchard View and new coach Aaron James, previously Mona Shores’ offensive coordinator.

The Vikings know others may be looking at this year as an opportunity to knock them back after a terrific run over the past few seasons. It’s their job to show that while the cast of characters has changed, the results won’t.

“We had a really exceptional year, really, two or three years, and I think everyone’s really waiting to see how we respond now,” Sigmon said. “We’ll see how it all plays out.”

• Andy Roberts/Mirror

hall, Montague and Oakridge all tied for the league championship.

“I think it’s pretty competitive at the top, and really throughout,” Dennett said. “Everybody can compete. Obviously Whitehall, with back-to-back undefeated (regular) seasons, they lost a lot, but they’re still going to be really good.”

Sports in Brief

Soccer

Whitehall couldn’t slow down a potent Trojans’ attack in a tough road loss. Keegan Frees and Carter Burrous each scored a goal for the Vikings, and Andon Palmer made 14 saves in goal.

Montague 7 Comstock Park 1

Trevor Trevino exploded for the Wildcats, ripping off the team’s final 6 goals of the night to deliver Montague to a lopsided win. Noah Raeth opened the scoring less than 2 minutes into the game.

Golf

Tennis

Whitehall 2-1 at Portland Invite

The Vikings had a strong opening effort, defeating Portland by a 7-1 score and downing Paw Paw 5-3. Perennial state powerhouse University Liggett blanked Whitehall 8-0 in the final match.

Whitehall 5 Coopersville 3

Cross Country R-P girls 2nd at Calvary Christian Invite Jersi Bilek and Gabrielle Chevez earned the top two spots in the seasonopening race, but Fruitport nipped the Rocket girls by a point. Bilek won by 50 seconds, with a time of 21:19.0, and Chevez finished in 22:10.9. Adrienne Fluette took 10th place.

Montague’s linemen work on a blocking drill during practice last Thursday. The Wildcats’ veteran front will be key to a strong year as young skill position players develop. • Andy Roberts/Mirror

Whitehall quarterback Camden Thompson rolls out looking for a receiver during last Thursday’s practice. Thompson, a WMU commit at wide receiver, will be the starting quarterback for the first time as a varsity player this fall. • Andy Roberts/Mirror

Whitehall players work on a running play during last Thursday’s practice. The Vikings open their season next Thursday at Unity Christian. • Andy Roberts/Mirror

Montague quarterback Eli Petersen throws a short pass during last Thursday’s practice as coach Justin Dennett looks on.

Reeths-Puffer wallops Big Rapids in home opener

Seven

different Rockets get on the board in team’s 2nd straight win

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

MUSKEGON — Reeths-Puffer may have graduated 10 seniors, including the program’s all-time leading scorer, from last year, but so far the Rockets have not looked like a team in transition.

The Rockets, already with an impressive season-opening road win under their belts, routed Big Rapids in their home opener Tuesday night, 9-1, to move to 2-0 on the season. (R-P edged East Grand Rapids in its first game, 2-1.)

“It’s a testament to their hard work in the summer,” R-P coach Kody Harrell said of the strong start. “We’ve got a great strength training program. We worked out all summer in the weight room. We really got after it like a football team this summer, and really the last two summers we’ve been doing that. It’s started paying some dividends this year.”

Harrell credited strength coach Aaron Szura and trainer Olivia Schroeder for implementing a program that has the Rockets playing quicker and with more agility than they have in the past.

R-P entered the season needing to replace nearly 40 goals from superstar Liam Smith, now at Western Michigan University - where the Rockets went Thursday to see Smith play against Vermont in a top-15 matchup. No single player could realistically expect to replace that kind of production, and the Rockets haven’t tried; seven different players scored a goal in Tuesday’s win, led by two each from Carson McCollum and Nick Clemens.

“One of our slogans is like what they say at the park, ‘I’ve got next,’” Harrell said. “That’s been our slogan with these kids. We love Liam and all those (graduated) seniors, but we’ve got next, it’s our turn. I think the kids are just using their own competitive energy and everything they’ve learned

R-P preview

day’s labor by hosing his players down. (Muskovin, Kater said, did the same thing for the youth program last year.) The dancing and slip-and-sliding that followed seemed to indicate it was a good idea.

“We start to lean on each other a little bit more because of that adversity,” Kater said of having to turn over so much of the roster and staff. “That definitely helped. I haven’t been closer to a team ever in my career, and I never have been able to have such deep conversations with a coaching staff... We had to have four new hires, and I’m excited. This is the best coaching that’s been going on here since I’ve been here, on a continuous basis.”

R-P has to replace the top statistical performer in pretty much every category. On offense, the Rockets have a new quarterback, though he’s not new to White Lake area fans. Mason Darke, who transferred from Montague, brings his athleticism - he’s a hurdler - to the field. Darke wasn’t asked to throw much at Montague, but Kater said with a year of experience and work, he’s been among the team’s most

from Liam and some of those other seniors.”

Clemens opened the scoring early in Tuesday’s game before Big Rapids answered with an impressive 30-plus yard shot, perfectly placed by Rhys Kilpatrick. However, from there R-P took total command of the game, dominating ball possession and creating scoring opportunities one after the other. Six different players scored the first six goals, and all seemingly in different ways.

First it was Trenton Hanks going top shelf to beat the Cardinal keeper.

Then, a great pass from Saif Abunayla set up Owen Ritsema for a goal. After that, London Carpenter - the last of the Rockets’ run of Carpenter boysfed Ian Wright for a score. McCollum bagged a penalty kick with just over a minute left in the first half after being fouled in the box.

McCollum, who also had two assists in the game, and Clemens appeared to be the leading forces propelling the Rocket offense forward, though many others contributed as well. Harrell said their speed sets them apart.

“Once they receive the ball and then that direction change they make, that next move after receiving the ball, is a lot quicker, a lot more explosive,” Harrell said. “They both play very high-level club soccer, so you could tell that they got a lot of playing time and worked on a lot of things with their club teams in the spring, and it’s paying dividends. They’re another year older and another year more confident.”

A beautiful McCollum pass resulted in a header goal by Zac Sampson early in the second half, and R-P cruised to the mercy rule win, ending the game with 13:16 to play. However, they didn’t end it before showing off a nifty trick play off a corner kick, in which two Rockets feigned kicking the ball before Gavin Wright stormed in and fired a terrific shot from over 20 yards out for a goal.

Harrell said he wasn’t concerned with showing future opponents that play because the Rockets have so many options that come off of it.

“That play has five plays off of it,” Harrell said. “It’s like a triple option in football...We showed that one but there’s definitely more that come off of that. We were just letting the boys have some fun. They even looked over (asking,) ‘Who shoots it?’ I said, ‘Your choice. You decide.’ It’s constantly instilling that faith and confidence in our

players too.”

R-P’s motto this year is CHOP, an acronym for Community, Honor, Ownership and Perseverance. The Rockets showed nothing Tuesday to dissuade fans from thinking plenty of CHOPping is yet to come this fall.

“It’s definitely a great start, but we don’t want to peak Aug. 20 either,” Harrell said. “Hopefully, the boys are having fun and learning, and we build on that.”

continued from page 4

improved players.

“I think it all comes down to mechanics and confidence,” Kater said. “Those are things that we’ve been trying to improve upon. Also, he was a sophomore playing up and now he’s obviously a year older. We hope with his experience, he’s able to grow from certain things throughout camp a little bit quicker than someone that doesn’t have as much experience.”

The Muskovin brothers, Ethan and Bryce, are set for big roles. Ethan, a slot receiver, is set to catch more passes than in past years after top receivers Jaxson Whitaker, Bryce Ross and Travis Ambrose graduated, and Bryce, a sophomore, steps up to the challenge of filling Brody Johnson’s significant shoes at running back.

“That’s what he’s wanting to do,” Kater said of Bryce. “He’s a giant-killer, a giant-slayer. He’s someone that wants the big task and he’s confident enough to go do it at a high level.”

All three levels of the defense feature new leaders too, though Sage Secrest boasts plenty of experience and is ready to be the defensive center-

piece.

“It’s been a tough task throughout the offseason trying to fill those gaps and trying to do our best to help, management-wise,” Kater said. “We feel like we’ve got some kids within our program that have experience, but just in different roles.”

Kater’s mantra since he took over the job has been “R-P versus R-P,” worrying only about the process and not the results. He conceded it hasn’t always been easy to keep past teams on

that track, but credits the 2024 group with doing it as well as any so far.

“Our kids, and you can ask their parents, they don’t talk about other schools or other teams,” Kater said. “We know who’s in our county that we have to go play. We know who our non-conference (opponents are). We’re not afraid of it. We’re looking forward to the challenge and it’s going to help us get better. We’re going to learn something throughout that week of prep and that Friday night test.”

Reeths-Puffer’s Carson McCollum (2) pursues the ball during Wednesday’s game against Big Rapids. McCollum had 2 goals and 2 assists in the Rockets’ 9-1 mercy rule victory.

• Andy Roberts/Mirror

Reeths-Puffer players enjoy the soak as Muskegon Charter Township firefighters hose them down following Friday’s practice. Rocket players have been focused on building team chemistry after turning over much of the starting lineup and assistant coaching staff from last season’s playoff team. • Andy Roberts/Mirror

Reeths-Puffer’s Trenton Hanks (left) grabs possession of the ball while Big Rapids’ Owen Buist pursues during Wednesday’s game at R-P. Hanks scored a goal in a 9-1 Rockets’ win.

• Andy Roberts/Mirror

Vikes take early command of WMC golf race

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

WHITEHALL — Whitehall served early notice of its place in the West Michigan Conference at Monday’s home jamboree, dominating the event to the tune of a 35-stroke win over second-place Montague.

The Vikings shot a team score of 370 to the Wildcats’ 405, giving local squads the top two spots in the opening WMC meet.

Grace McDowell was her usual rock-solid self and led all players with an 87, only three times scoring worse than a bogey on a hole. The eyebrow-raiser, though, was freshman Riley Shafer, who displayed her promising talent by debuting with an 88, just one shot behind McDowell. Shafer scored a pair of birdies during her round, both on par-4s.

Montague’s Braylyn Bultema tries to chip out of trouble during Monday’s WMC jamboree in Whitehall. Bultema led the Wildcats with a 97, and the team finished in 2nd place.

• Andy Roberts/Mirror

Morgan Garcia finished fifth overall and third on the Vikings, scoring a 96, including a birdie on the 18th hole. Felicity Dingman rounded out Whitehall scoring with a 99, placing eighth overall.

For Montague, team leaders Braylyn Bultema and Cadence Fox were the top scorers. Bultema shot a 97 and

Fox a 98, finishing sixth and seventh respectively.

Also

Whitehall beats R-P, goes 3-1 at opening meet

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

WHITEHALL — Whitehall got its season off to a strong start Wednesday at a five-team home invitational, posting a 3-1 record.

The Vikings earned all three of their wins in two straight games apiece. They dispatched Reed City (25-14, 2522) and Reeths-Puffer (25-21, 25-18), fending off a late charge by the Rockets in game one of the latter match. Whitehall also scored a win over Newaygo (25-21, 25-20). Kenowa Hills beat Whitehall, also in two games, by a 25-19, 25-11 score.

The Viking seniors led the offensive attack, with Bella Fogus scoring 21 kills and Sidney Shepherd adding 16. Fogus also paced Whitehall’s serving efforts, posting nine aces. Aaliyah Jamison chipped in seven. Jamison was the day’s top defender, racking up 39 digs, with Fogus adding 21. Shepherd had 33 assists and Lou Mulder added 23 as Whitehall tried out its new two-setter formation.

Reeths-Puffer split its four matches, earning two-game wins in the first two before losing the final two. The Rockets beat Reed City (25-18, 25-19)

Whitehall’s Bella Fogus fires an attack between Reeths-Puffer defenders Mairyn Peterson (12) and Hannah Lindstrom during Wednesday’s Whitehall Invitational.

• Andy Roberts/Mirror

and Newaygo (25-20, 25-21), and lost to Kenowa Hills in a three-game battle (22-25, 25-20, 25-12) before closing with the defeat to Whitehall.

“Our girls came out firing in the first two and a half matches of the day,” R-P coach Justin Birr said. “I feel that we clicked well as a team, which means our hitters were strong because our defense and passing were strong behind our hitters.”

Birr added that he saw impressive

fight from his team, which battled back from big early deficits in both games against Newaygo and did so again in game one against Whitehall, albeit falling short.

“We have a lot of competitive girls on our team that are hungry for more positive outcomes,” Birr said. “We will definitely go into practice tomorrow

with the mentality that if we play those same four teams a month from now, we go 4-0.”

Alissa Klopp led a balanced offensive attack for R-P with 20 kills; Makayla Disselkoen had 17. Grace Darke passed out 56 assists. On defense, Darke posted 22 digs. Mady Snyder served 13 aces and added 18 digs.

Chamber seeks annual award nominations

The White Lake Area Chamber of Commerce is now accepting nominations for the “Lady Laker of the Year” and “El Award.”

The “Lady Laker of the Year” award recognizes a female professional who has served in an exceptional manner, especially in mentoring and assisting future leaders in the White Lake area. Selection for the “Lady Laker Award,” which is a beautiful signed sculpture, is based on an evaluation process undertaken by a panel of several area residents and past recipients.

The “El Award” recipient is an individual who has been influential in the community and has been affiliated with various organizations, involved in local efforts and is connected with the local business com-

munity. This award recognizes an outstanding male professional and is in memory of Eleanor Polley, a former director of the White Lake Area Chamber of Commerce.

All nominees must be individuals who perform outstanding services, and exhibit a positive and supportive attitude. Nomination forms must be submitted by Sept. 30. To nominate someone or for additional information, applications may be found at www.whitelake.org under the “events” heading.

Nominations and voting for the prestigious White Lake “Entrepreneur of the Year” award is determined and selected by the Chamber’s Board of Directors. Returning this year, the “Legacy Award,” which recognizes an outstanding individual for the impact that

they and their business have had in the White Lake Community for the past 10 years or more. Chamber members are invited to nominate a current Chamber member, in good standing who has demonstrated a track record for business health and growth.

Correction

In last week’s Montague golf preview, the places Braylyn Bultema and Cadence Fox took in this summer’s Greater Muskegon Junior Tour standings were mistakenly reversed. Fox placed second and Bultema third in the final standings. Also, Molly Mulder was mistakenly referred to as a freshman; she is a sophomore. The Mirror apologizes for the mistakes.

Whitehall’s Sidney Shepherd lines up an attack as Reeths-Puffer’s Mady Snyder rises to contest it during Wednesday’s Whitehall Invitational. The Vikings beat the Rockets en route to a 3-1 day.

• Andy Roberts/Mirror

for Montague, Addi Smith shot a 103 and Brynlee Kessler carded a 107.

Whitehall’s Grace McDowell follows the flight of a shot during Monday’s WMC jamboree at White Lake Golf Club. McDowell’s 87 led all scorers and helped the Vikings earn an impressive first-place finish. • Andy Roberts/Mirror