The Oceana Echo - Volume 2, Issue 14, August 30, 2024 by theoceanaecho

Total Raised: $2,310

Oceana Echo

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Thank you to this week’s donors towards our Lead this Legacy Fundraising Campaign

READER:

David & Kathleen Spitler

Lee & Dianna Hendrixon

Fred & Joan Van Domelen

Kathleen Badgley

Dale & Margaret Meinert

Paul & Cheri Inglis

PHOTOGRAPHER: Matthew Kolb

Penguin Project presents Beauty and the Beast Jr.

By Sharon Hallack

The Oceana Echo Community Contributor

Community theater is alive and well in West Michigan! Coming just three weeks after a community theater performance sponsored by the Hart Area Performing Arts Association, three young men from Oceana County will take the stage at another venue and showcase not only their acting ability but their joy and passion for community theater themselves.

Sawyer Arkema of New Era, Ray Crosby of Hart, and Andrew Kelley of New Era, along with 27 other special needs actors and actresses from West Michigan, will perform Disney’s musical “Beauty and the Beast Jr.” as part of the Muskegon Civic Theatre, Penguin Project production, Saturday, Sept. 7, 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, September 8, 3 p.m. at the Frauenthal Theatre, 425 W. Western Ave. in Muskegon.

The Penguin Project was founded in 2004 by Dr. Andrew Morgan of Peoria, Ill. The Penguin Project provides individuals with special needs the opportunity to participate with peer mentors and

perform on a real stage, in real costumes and makeup, with real lines and musical numbers.

According to its website PenguinProject. org, “The Penguin Project strives to demonstrate that individuals with special needs are fully capable of participating in community activities with the same dedication and enthusiasm as others, if given opportunity and support. We believe that the special challenges of a disability should not handicap a child’s ability to participate in life’s experiences. The Penguin Project recognizes that theater not only provides children with a valuable recreational experience and an opportunity to display their creative talents, but also enhances social interaction, communication skills, assertiveness, and selfesteem.”

Arkema, Crosby and Kelley may have a special needs designation, but those special needs certainly don’t define them. They lead busy, fulfilling lives, holding jobs, spending time with family and friends and enjoying hobbies, one of which they’ve discovered is acting.

PenguinProject.org continues, “The origin of the name ‘Penguin Project’ comes from the unique characteristics of penguins. They are extremely playful and curious and work well together. More importantly, they have a ‘disability’ that distinguishes them from other birds – they can’t fly!! Instead, penguins waddle and toboggan on their bellies over the snow and are excellent swimmers in the water. So like our young artists, they have adapted to the challenges of their environment and have not allowed their unique differences to interfere with their lives.”

Crosby, who really enjoys acting, has played the role of Mr. Mayor in “Seussical Jr.” and the

Tin Man in “Wizard of Oz Jr.” This year he will play Maurice, Belle’s father. Kelley, who particularly loves to dance and play air guitar, says he really likes the costumes too. He played a Who in “Seussical Jr.” and the role of James in “High School Musical Jr.” He will be an Egg Seller in this year’s production. Arkema also loves to dance and sing, and his favorite musical of all time is “High School Musical.” He got involved with the Penguin Project last year and was thrilled when he was cast as Zeke. He will play a Baker next weekend.

“These kids are doing something I wouldn’t do,” smiled Laura Crosby, Ray’s mom.

According to MuskegonCivicTheatre.org, the Penguin Project utilizes a ‘peer mentor’ system, linking each young special needs artist with an age-level peer who does not have special needs. The peer mentors work side-by-side with their partners, assisting them throughout the entire rehearsal process and on stage through the entire performance. And as a peer mentor, they are on stage with their partner in the same or complimentary costume throughout the entire show.

This year Crosby is paired with peer mentor Marin Keeler, while Arkema’s peer mentor is Olivia Harshbarger. Kelley is paired with Andrew

VanGunst of New Era, a first-year peer mentor in the Penguin Project. VanGunst, who has participated in other drama productions over the years, shared he has really enjoyed being a peer mentor and will continue to be involved. Most mentors are drama students from local schools and often invite their Penguin partners to their own school year or community performances.

When asked what their favorite part of being in the musicals has been, all three artists agreed, saying, “Dancing and singing to ‘Don’t Stop Believin’ as a group at the end.” The song by Journey is the Penguin Project’s unofficial theme song and is sung, with choreographed motions at the end of every Penguin Project rehearsal and production across the U.S. They also have a Penguin Project cheer and warmup games, all meant to create a special camaraderie and community within a community.

“The song is something the kids can always count on,” said Chris Kelley, mom of Andrew Kelley. “The kids love it; it’s high energy.”

Another highlight of each performance is when the entire cast gets to do one special musical number all together on stage. The song is not only sung but also signed, making it all the more meaningful.

Up until tomorrow

(Saturday, Aug. 31), all rehearsals have been held at “The Hub,” home of the “No More Sidelines” organization in Muskegon. Starting Sunday, Sept. 1 through Thursday, Sept. 5, rehearsals will take place at the Frauenthal Theatre, where artists will put the finishing touches on their performances.

“Nothing is spared,” shared Laura Crosby. “The costumes, sets, make-up, lighting, everything is top-notch.” Crosby also shared that everything the Penguin Project does is intentional, from how rehearsals are run up to and through the performances. The artists acclimate to things in stages, so they know what to expect and can get the support they need.

“I love seeing the camaraderie between the kids. They cheer one another on; there’s no jealousy,” said Chris Kelley. “Andrew never complains about going.”

All three families expressed the importance of the productions for themselves as well. They often stay for rehearsals, joining other parents in the auditorium. “From a parent perspective, it’s like a support group,” said Kelley.

And when the curtain rises on opening night, all the rehearsals and the extra busyness that is created are worth it. Getting to watch their child perform and have fun with their peers brings a flood of emotions, from pride

and joy to optimism and thankfulness.

“Even for the parents who have been going to rehearsals, to see it all come together is magical,” Laura Crosby said.

“You can’t get the full effect until you see it. You leave with a smile on your face and a tear in your eye,” Chris Kelley said in closing.

Tickets for next weekend’s performances are available at www.muskegoncivictheatre.org/ tickets.

The Penguin Project is open to any individual aged 12 to 24 with a developmental disability. Two informational meetings are held each June, with rehearsals running two to three times a week in the months of July and August. There are no restrictions based on the level of cognitive ability, restriction of mobility, or lack of communication skills, unless their behavior might endanger himself/herself or others. All costs involved for each artist are covered by the local Penguin Project chapter. Visit muskegoncivictheatre.org to learn more about the program or to donate.

Other award-winning musicals performed by the Penguin Project include Annie Jr. - 2017, Aladdin2018, Peter Pan Jr. - 2019, Wizard of Oz Jr. - 2021, Seussical the Musical Jr.2022, High School Musical Jr. - 2023, Beauty and the Beast Jr. - 2024.

Three young men from Oceana County will be performing in Beauty and the Beast Jr. next weekend in Muskegon. Above, left, Sawyer Arkema (right) practices lines with peer mentor Andrew VanGunst. Andrew Kelley, above center, practices his dance moves. Ray Crosby, above right, was the Tin Man in the Wizard of Oz Jr. in 2021.

114 Dryden St. in 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

Early Pioneers: The Willsons (part 1)

By Caleb Jackson

The Oceana Echo Community Columnist

Several months ago, I endeavored to write a series covering the various rural school houses that once existed and some of which still stand in Oceana County. One of the schools I wrote about was the Willson schoolhouse in Golden Township. Today, I would like to introduce you to the early pioneers that this schoolhouse was named after, Mr. Hiram J. Willson and Mrs. Jennie M. Willson.

Hiram’s life prior to his arrival in Oceana seems to have been full of trials and tribulation. He was born on Long Sault Island on March 1, 1837, the youngest of three children. His father would die the following year, and his mother, it would seem, suffered too greatly to raise any children on her own. As it is written in Page’s history of Oceana, “For two years the widow, though sick and partially deranged, with the aid of her father, managed to maintain herself and youngest boy… having secured homes for the two eldest, among friends.” Around this time Hiram’s mother’s “health and her mind failed, as also had what little means she had….” She was taken

to the poor house in St. Lawrence County, and Hiram was put into the care of a half-sister “out of sympathy.” Together, the two of them lived in St. Lawrence County until Hiram’s half-sister moved to Jefferson County in 1856, leaving Hiram in St. Lawrence so that he could continue to work. Hiram was only 19 when his half-sister left. Prior to this, when Hiram was only 14, he and his older brother made arrangements with an aunt to move their mother from the poor house and into her own home. The young boys paid for the mother’s board and clothes with what little money they could earn.

In July of 1862, at the age of 25 years, Hiram joined the 106th New York Infantry. The following September “found him in the New Creek Valley, West Va., practicing military tactics, doing guard duty on the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad, and devouring U.S. hard-tack and pork.” According to Page’s History, Hiram fought in 14 battles. He was wounded at the battle of Winchester on Sept. 19, 1864, and wounded even more seriously on April 2, 1865, in the battle that captured Petersburg. A ball had passed through the left side of his body, which ultimately resulted in his discharge from the military

by reason of disability after nearly three years of service. He returned to his friends and family in St. Lawrence in June of 1865 with a pension of $18 a month. He had previously met Jennie V. Brandish, and their acquaintance “continued while convalescing from his wound.” They were married in July of that same year.

Following his marriage, Hiram headed out West to look for a new home. It was “the wilds of Little Point Au Sable, on the eastern shore of Lake Michigan,” that won his heart. He sent for his wife and met up with her, her sister and a few others in Ionia before taking them to his cabin in the woods. “They now set themselves to work to make themselves comfortable for Winter,” Page wrote, “chinked up the cabin, built a clay fireplace and chimney (true soldier style), and commenced housekeeping.” Apparently, the land office had burned down around this time, and so their homestead entry receipt was delayed until the next spring. Before the next winter hit, they built a new house, cleared the land of timber and cut a road through the woods. Then Hiram set to work “getting out [shingle] bolts,” which was a farmer’s bread and butter in those days. The cou-

ple had two children, Helen Gertrude Willson and Alfred D. Willson, and in time they transitioned from shingle bolts and lumbering to growing fruit. Page ends his entry by saying, “Now they can look up on those first days of privation and want as among the things of the past, and in their declining years harvest the rewards of their labors.”

But you are probably wondering where the Willson school comes into all this. Well, next week we will cover Hiram’s wife, Jennie Willson, who was a teacher. If you want to learn more about the Willsons, tune in next week.

historical items to explore

By Mort Wiegand The Oceana Echo Volunteer Contributor

The summer is nearly over! The Oceana County Historical & Genealogical Society Museum Complex in Mears is closed for the season. The OCH&GS would like to extend a special thanks to all who visited and to those who volunteered each weekend in Mears. The

new agricultural barn, which opened in June, was well visited, along with the other numerous buildings across the complex.

The Chadwick-Munger House in Hart is open year around, so remember to visit there on Wednesdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. We have 13,000 photos, 2,000 postcards, 14,000 archival records, 2,400 books in the library, 4,200 objects (clothing, paintings, tools, etc.), thousands of obituaries (updated weekly),

the Native American Room, all of the old Oceana County newspapers on Microfilm, a complete collection of The Mears Newz (fully indexed), the master surname index (updated monthly), the Oceana County Federal Census from 1850 to 1910, a gift shop and much more! There are many visitors and inquiries each month.

Our volunteer dinner is planned for Oct. 8 at the Mears Methodist Church at 6 p.m.

Donations in any amount can be made via Paypal at paypal.me/echopublishinginc, by scanning the QR code at right or by sending a check made out to Echo Publishing Inc. to P.O. Box 192, Mears, MI 49436.

Ongoing

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

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

THURS-SAT: Pentwater Historical Museum open, 85 Rutledge St., 1-4 p.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. Complete schedule at: theladdercommunitycenter.com

Shelby Congregational UCC free breakfast Aug. 31

The entire community is invited to join one another for breakfast this 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.

First Walkerville Hunting Contest starts Sept. 15

By Sharon Hallack The Oceana Echo Community Contributor

The community is invited to the first annual Walkerville Hunting Contest which will take place from Sept. 15 to Oct. 6, 2024.

Interested hunters are encouraged to register at eventbrite.com and search “Walkerville Hunting Contest” or contact event coordinator Brian Burrell at 989390-2830 (call/text) or brian.burrell@yahoo.com.

“Many in our community like to hunt, including me. I thought since we are wanting to hold more community events in the Walkerville area, I thought it might be fun to try a hunting contest,” Burrell said.

After registering, hunters are welcome to hunt for any animals listed on Eventbrite site between the aforementioned dates. Scoring events will take place at the following sponsor locations: Sunday, Sept. 22 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Ruby Creek Store (7990 E. Washington Rd. in Branch); and from 1:30-4 p.m. at the Freeman Leaky Tap (10193 N. Dickinson Rd. in Walkerville); Sunday, Sept. 29 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Knotty Pine General Store (7999 W. 11-Mile Rd. in Bitely) and from 1:30-4 p.m. at the Silver Bullet Saloon (8347 E. Washington Rd. in Branch); and Sunday, Oct. 6 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Walkerville Kwik Mart (330 E. Main St. in Walkerville) and from 1:30-4 p.m. at the Ruby Creek Tavern (7980 E. Washington Rd. in Branch).

A running tally will be kept from week to week so hunters know their standing. Prizes and bragging rights will be awarded on the final day of the contest, Sunday, Oct. 6.

“Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a first-timer, this event is perfect for anyone looking to get out into the fields and woodlands surrounding Walkerville, sharpen their hunting skills, help reduce some of the more nuisance species and support our local businesses at the same time,” said Burrell.

All hunters must have valid Michigan hunting licenses and follow all Michigan DNR hunting rules. Only registered hunters are eligible to participate (no pooling of hunters). Hunters should enter fresh species only, no roadkills. Hunters will be responsible for proper disposal or processing of game after scoring is complete.

The cost to enter the competition is $25 per hunter, paid online at Eventbrite or in person to Brian Burrell (contact him personally at info above to make arrangements). Half of proceeds from this year’s hunting tournament will go to Walkerville’s Rebuilding Community Committee and half will go towards prizes.

Volunteers are needed and welcome at any of the scoring events. Please contact Burrell to volunteer or with questions.

August-September

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.

Aug. 31-Sept. 1 - Annual “Honoring Our Elders” Traditional Pow Wow, fairgrounds in Hart, 1 p.m., craft vendors open at 10 a.m.

Sept. 2 - Labor Day Pancake Breakfast, Mears Methodist Church, 1990 N. 56th Ave., Mears, 8-11 a.m.

Sept. 2 - Pentwater Farmers Market, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Sept. 3 - Tech Time, Hesperia Comm. Library, 1:30-2:30 p.m.

Sept. 5 - Pentwater Farmers Market, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Sept. 6 - Free Market Day, Shelby Township Park, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Sept. 6 - Story Time, Hesperia Community Library, 10-11 a.m.; and Tween Night, 3:15-4:45 p.m., Community Room

Sept. 6 & 7 - Silver Lake Apple BBQ Festival

Sept. 9 - Little Sable Point Beach Clean-Up sponsored by Lighthouse Keepers, 9 a.m.

Sept. 10 - Tech Time, Hesperia Comm. Library, 1:30-2:30 p.m.

Sept. 10 - Book Walk, anytime from 4-7 p.m., New Era Farmers Market

Shoreline horseback riding registration opens Sunday

This fall, horseback riders can enjoy the unparalleled experience of riding along the Lake Michigan shoreline at Silver Lake State Park, one of Michigan’s most unique and popular destinations, in Oceana County.

With ORV season ending in Silver Lake’s ORV Area at the end of October, the DNR offers a tranquil escape for horseback riders. A staging area is available at the start of the equestrian route for unloading and preparing horses for the ride. Riders are responsible for cleaning up after their horses in the staging area.

Equestrians can ride a predetermined route along Lake Michigan during the shoreline horseback riding season Nov. 1-30. The registration fee is $10 per horse per day, and 125 slots are available each day. Registration opens at 8 a.m. Sunday, Sept. 1. Questions? Contact Jody Johnston at 231-721-5858.

Newman CCC to host Community Carnival

The Newman Christian Community Church invites the community to join them for a free Community Carnival Saturday, Sept.14, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the church located at 4075 S. 132nd Ave., Hesperia. Everyone is welcome to come out and enjoy a great day of bonding and making memories, while enjoying a wide range of fun-filled activities including a Big Boys “Toy” Show (including cars, motorcycles and tractors), a Newman vs. Rothbury Community Church baseball game (2 p.m.), Puppets of Praise (10:15 a.m., 11 a.m. and 11:15 a.m.), bounce house and balloon animals/face painting provided by Child Evangelism Fellowship. Attendees can also visit a variety of community providers booths (Michigan State Police, Oceana County Sheriff’s Department, Oceana County canine unit, West Michigan S.A.I.L. Club and the Ferry Fire Department) set up to share information and answer questions, enjoy food from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. and hear a special message from the world-renowned Conquerors Strength Team.

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.

Back to School Fun at the New Era Farmers Market

The theme for the next New Era Farmers Market is “Back to School Fun.” The Sept. 10 market kicks off at 4 p.m. with the Kids Power of Produce Club. Teresa Mead of Read Early Read Often will be leading a story walk. Following that will be an inside presentation on “The Amazing Honey Bee” by Don Snoeyink of Thornapple Woodlands, LLC in Alto, Mich. Each child will receive a Honey Bee Fact Sheet and coloring page to take home. Kids can also enter a drawing for a Country Dairy Farm Tour for up to four people, which includes a free regular-sized ice cream cone. Organizers will also do another drawing for a one-day pass for up to six people at Sand Castles Children’s Museum in Ludington.

The band Hawks and Owls will perform from 5-7 p.m. They’re a string band that includes Bruce and Becca Ling. They have performed at Wheatland Music Festival, the Ark (located in Ann Arbor, Mich.), Blissfest, Festival of the Wild Rose Moon, Harvest Gathering, Farmfest, Detroit Institute of Art, musical and literary clubs, museum and library programs, folklife societies, corporate functions and weddings – to name a few. This is their first performance at the market.

Vendors are promising peaches, apples, tomatoes, squash and other seasonal homegrown veggies. Weesies Bros. will be there with delicious corn, perennials and succulents. Organizers hope to see you there, 1820 Ray Ave. in New Era, Mich. Look for the market mascot, Raye the Scarecrow, on the corner hanging out with the sign.

By Sharon Hallack

The Oceana Echo

Community Contributor

Youth

The Oceana Echo thanks new Oceana County 4-H Program Coordinator Jennifer Payne for the following submission: Oceana County’s Lillian Wasson has been recently honored with a 4-H State Award in Goats, recognizing her hard work and dedication in the 4-H program. An active member of the Pen Pals and Equine Achievers 4-H clubs, Lillian has shown a commitment to excellence in her endeavors and livestock.

The 4-H State Award is the highest honor for Michigan 4-H members, celebrating youth who demonstrate outstanding learning, leadership, and service. This award acknowledges Lillian’s significant achievements and her growth through the 4-H experience.

The Michigan 4-H State Awards Program provides a valuable learning experience, helping members develop career skills by creating a professional portfolio. This process enhances communication, literacy, record-keeping and marketability skills. The portfolio, which includes reflections on past 4-H experiences, can be a useful tool for future job, college, or scholarship applications.

Lillian competes in showing

News and Notes

American Boer Goats at local, state and national levels. Her activities also included presenting a Large Market Goat Project, Meat Goat Breeding does and Draft Horses at the recent Oceana County Fair.

In addition to her state award, Lillian is a four-time Michigan 4-H Skillathon champion (2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024), currently serves as the Michigan Draft Horse Association Queen, and holds the title of Clydesdale Breeders of America’s Youth All Around and Show Division Champion.

Government

Residents have been contacting the post office asking about texts they are receiving from a random contact number. One text said something to the effect, “The USPS package has arrived at the warehouse and cannot be delivered due to incomplete address information. Please confirm your address in the link within 12 hours.” The Oceana Echo contacted the Hart Post Office to inquire about the legitimacy of such a text. The representative we spoke with said they receive about 10 calls a day asking the same thing. They want to let the community know that texts

from anyone claiming they are the “United States Post Office” is a scam. “It is someone just trying to get your money.” They advised anyone receiving these types of texts to not respond or text back, but to report it as “junk” and delete the text. The post office will NEVER text residents. They confirmed they only communicate using the USPS website, app or through good old-fashioned mail in your mailbox.

Municipal

The new Shelby Village Administrator, Phil Morse, started in his new position on Wednesday, Aug. 14, and reported Monday how much he has enjoyed it thus far. He reported he has been busy listening, asking questions and getting caught up on the many activities taking place in the village. “It is evident that Brady and Jae, in concert with others, (have done) a lot of work to bring us to this point, where we are seeing revitalization. We have gems among our staff. We are aiming for Shelby to be safe and appealing for citizens and visitors.” Morse wrote in his first official VA report. “I’ve loved the job; there’s so much to do. I’m not bored; so much is happening. I think my ‘principaling’ has prepared me for it, and I’m good with it,” Morse added. Monday was the council’s first meeting with Morse as VA. It was evident at the meeting that the council was comfortable with their decision to hire Morse, and they seemed ready and willing to begin working together.

Did you know the Village of Shelby has links to a “New Residents Welcome Packet”? They also have a “Shelby Village Citizen’s Guide” that connects users to the MI Community Financial Dashboard, a site that links to

the state and provides various financial and analytics data, not only for Shelby but the entire county. We commend Shelby for providing this helpful information.

The Community Foundation of Oceana County quarterly “Deep Dive” took place Aug. 21. With approximately 40 people in attendance, city and county economic development information was shared and discussed. The CFOC also shared how they can assist municipalities with their efforts. Learn more at www.oceanafoundation.org.

According to Hart City Manager Rob Splane, Fishbeck Consulting will be in Hart next week to walk downtown with a new representative from the MEDC (Michigan Economic Development Corporation) to discuss the city’s community development efforts, visit with recent grant recipient businesses and tour the former Ceres Solutions property.

Speaking of the Ceres Solutions property, after two official readings, the Hart City Council approved Ordinance 2024-02 to rezone the lots located at 3 E. Main St., from B-2 General Business to PUD - Planned Unit Development, Tuesday. Smith Group Consulting will now prepare a selection of redevelopment options for Hart’s TIFA (Tax Increment Finance Authority) for their consideration. Once TIFA reviews the options, a recommendation will be sent to the Hart Planning Commission, which, after reviewing, will submit its recommendation to the city council for final approval. The public will have the opportunity each step of the way to ask questions and provide input. The final decision, as to what will be developed within that block, will be made by the

city council.

At the Hart Area Fire Administrative board meeting July 25, Hart Fire Chief Dwight Fuehring reported the department had responded to 192 medical calls and 149 fire calls so far this year. The board approved adding Erick Eckholm and Andrew May as new firefighters to the department. A used fire truck recently purchased from the Pentwater Fire Department will be designated as the “Silver Lake Truck” for extinguishing fires on the dunes. The truck comes equipped with foaming system equipment and uses less water.

Community

The Oceana County Historical & Genealogical Society (OCH&GS) was pleased to host both the Hart Rotary Club and Shelby Rotary Club at their Mears Historical Complex this summer. Each group met at the museum for one of their weekly lunch meetings, followed by a self-guided tour of the grounds. This weekend marks the end of their summer season. Visit the museum one last time this Saturday and Sunday from 1-4 p.m. If you would like to schedule a private tour for your community group, church, family reunion, or classroom, please contact the OCH&GS at 231-873-2600.

Area Parks

Shelby’s Getty Park is coming together, and everyone is looking forward to its Grand “Re”-Opening! Shelby Village Council decided Monday to host a “soft opening” once construction is complete early this fall to officially make it available to the public. A more formal “grand opening” will be held in the spring. Check out the village Facebook page for recent updates and photos!

L i LL ian W asson

In Loving Memory of our Family, Friends and Neighbors

obituaries

Donald Henry Sauser (Red)

August 11, 1939 ~ August 21, 2024

Donald Henry Sauser (Red), 85, passed away peace fully at his home on Wednesday, Aug. 21, 2024. He left behind a legacy of hard work, dedication and love. Donald was born on Aug. 11, 1939, to Peter and Mary Elizabeth (Bogner) Sauser and resided in Hart, Mich. Donald had a diverse and fulfilling career working in many different roles and industries, including Laman Asphalt, Adam’s Excavating and Reliable Truck and Crane. His work culminated in a successful tenure with the International Union of Operating Engineers Local 324, where he retired as a respected heavy equip ment operator. His expertise and commitment to his craft were well respected, and he made a significant impact in every role he took on.

Donald had a deep passion for the outdoors, tinkering around in the garage and his cars. He loved manicuring his land, admiring his latest Corvette and the satisfaction of a hard day’s work.

Donald was more than just a hard worker; he was a husband, father and friend. He is survived by his loving wife, Sandra Kay Sauser, whom he married on March 1, 1958; three children: Donald Sauser (Cynthia), Jon Sauser (Kristen Cummings) and Sue Sauser (Louis Fipps); four grandchildren: Nicole Harvey (Matthew), Kari Davis (James), Alexis Sauser and Christopher Sauser; and one great-grandchild: Ethan Harvey.

A memorial in honor of Donald’s life will be held at Hightower Bar on Sunday, Sept. 1, 2024 from noon to 4 p.m. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in his name to Hospice of Michigan.

Donald will be remembered for his strength, perseverance and the lasting impact he had on those who knew him. He will be deeply missed but never forgotten.

Beacon Cremation & Funeral Service, Pere Marquette Chapel, is in charge of arrangements. www.beaconfh.com

Death Notice ~ Hal Read Smith

Hal Read Smith, 73, passed away Thursday, Aug. 21, 2024. He was born in Shelby, Nov. 11, 1950, the son of Keith and Carma (Read) Smith.

Hal is survived by: sisters, Lonna (Gary) Hoogewind and Jill (Dave) Corday; son, Matthew Christopher Smith; daughter, Amber Adams; grandchildren, Marissa Smith, Bryn Adams, and Addison Adams; great-grandchild, Remington Matthew Uribe; and many nieces, nephews and great-nephews.

Hal was preceded in death by his parents: Keith and Carma (Read) Smith; twin brothers, who passed at birth, Peter and Paul Smith; and grandson, Devon Matthew Smith.

In accordance with Hal’s wishes, cremation has taken place, and private family interment will take place in the near future. Hal’s final resting place will be in Mears Cemetery.

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

Donald William Hansen

August 10, 1928 ~ August 23, 2024

Donald William Hansen, 96, of Hart, Mich., passed away Friday, Aug. 23, 2024. He was born Aug. 10, 1928, in Chicago, Ill., the son of Walter D. and Margaret M. (Hughes) Hansen.

As a teenager, Don worked at the Great Atlantic and Pacific Tea Company in Hart and across the state, managing stores in about six different areas. That experience laid the groundwork for his future as a local business owner.

A Hart High School graduate of the Class of 1946, Donald’s athletic ability was well-recognized. His in volvement in basketball, baseball, football and track earned him a basketball scholarship to Michigan State University.

Donald’s service to his country was equally distinguished. As a U.S. Army veteran stationed in Japan, he served with honor as a jumpmaster in the 11th Airborne Division, an experience that highlighted his leadership and bravery. His time in the Army further shaped his commitment to service and community. Returning to Hart, Donald became a prominent figure in local life. He owned and operated the local grocery store, Hansen Foods, where his entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to customer service made him a beloved community member. His dedication to his work was evident, and his impact on the community began to grow. Don’s efforts extended beyond business; he was a founding member of the Hart Lions Club and the Hart Athletic Boosters, establishing both organizations from his own living room. His vision for these groups played a crucial role in fostering community spirit and support for local athletes. Don was also involved with drafting the charter for the City of Hart, highlighting his very civic mindset. His dedication to improving local infrastructure and services was also demonstrated through his initiative in starting the Hart Ambulance Service, ensuring that the community had access to vital emergency care.

Don’s contributions extended to recreational activities as well. Alongside his wife, Beverly, he offered swimming lessons in their pool, creating opportunities for families and children to enjoy and learn. Donald also founded the Mickey Stanley Golf Open, hosting players from the Detroit Tigers. These gestures were just some of the many ways he enriched the lives of those around him.

Don’s wit, kindness and generosity leave a lasting mark on Hart. His ability to connect with people, his unwavering commitment to community service, and his proactive approach to local issues made him a pillar of strength and support for many.

Don is survived by: his children, David (Leslie) Hansen, Brenda (Larry) Seguin, Diane (Ron) LaPorte, and Goeff (Tami) Hansen; eight grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; brother, Walter Hansen Jr.; sisters-in-law, Joyce Hansen and Jayne Hansen; as well as numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

Don was preceded in death by: his loving wife of 74 years, Beverly June (Smith) Hansen; his parents, Walter and Margaret Hansen; grandson, Collin Hansen; brothers, LeRoy Hansen and Verne Hansen; and sister, Mary Lou Hansen.

A Celebration of Life will be held from 1-4 p.m., Sunday, Sep. 15, 2024, at the Oceana Eagles, 4535 N. Oceana Dr., Hart, MI 49420.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Collin Hansen Skilled Trades Scholarship through the Oceana County Community Foundation, by mail: P.O. Box 902, Pentwater, MI 49449 or online at: https://oceanafoundation.org/give/ give-now/

Beacon Cremation & Funeral Service, King-Hart Chapel, is in charge of arrangements. www.beaconfh.com

Blackberry Ridge dedication

By JoAnn Derson

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FOR RELEASE AUG. 26, 2024

By Lucie Winborne

• On Sept. 11, 1941, Charles Lindbergh’s Des Moines speech, which advocated a position of nonintervention and was met with outrage in many quarters, accused the British, Jews and FDR’s administration of pressing for war with Germany.

• On Sept. 12, 1977, Steve Biko, a strong anti-apartheid activist and founder of the Black Consciousness Movement in South Africa, was killed in an African prison while in police custody. Two decades later, five former police officers confessed to the murder and applied to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission for amnesty, but their request was denied in 1999.

• On Sept. 13, 1926, the Post Office Department sent a memo to its 25,000 railway mail clerks containing an order to shoot to kill any bandits attempting to rob the mail, following an ever-increasing number of thefts. They also issued a statement saying that if the robberies continued, the Marines would be again called in to protect the mail.

• On Sept. 14, 1741, George Frideric Handel completed his oratorio “Messiah,” which was originally an Easter offering. Mesmerizing audiences ever since its first performance in Dublin, Ireland’s Musick Hall the following April, it remains a beloved feature of the Christmas season more than two centuries later.

• On Sept. 15, 1830, William Huskisson, a British statesman, financier and member of Parliament, was run over and fatally injured by Robert Stephenson’s pioneering locomotive Rocket. Though he’s commonly known as the world’s first widely reported railway passenger casualty, the actual first such death had occurred nine years earlier.

• The best way to cook leafy, green veggies such as spinach and kale, is to stir fry them in just the water left over from rinsing. It works very well to steam them, and adds no fat!

• Keep track of capacity and dimension of your cookware by using a permanent marker to notate the specifications on the bottoms of each baking container you have. This way, when a recipe calls for a 13-by-9 baking dish or a 2-quart casserole dish, you can easily tell which one you need. This is especially important if you don’t spend a lot of time cooking.

• “When you need to crush nuts or a cracker for crumbs, you can use a small can of soup to crush these in a plastic bag. This is for when you don’t have a rolling pin.” — J.R. in Virginia

• To avoid a dirty-smelling hamper, place a single sheet of fabric softener in the bottom of your laundry closet or in the hamper itself.

• “To keep sauces from splattering and dirtying the inside of your microwave, cover the food with a damp paper towel or a coffee filter.” — E.C. in Utah

• “Unload the bottom rack of the dishwasher first. This way, you won’t wet the dishes on the bottom if any pooled water on the top shelf spills. I thought everyone did it this way, but then my boyfriend thought I was such a genius that I figured I would share this hint with others!” — via email

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• Have you ever thought that your dog’s feet smell like corn chips? If so, you’re not alone. In fact, the term “Frito Feet” was coined to describe the scent!

• The fastest knockout in pro boxing history occurred when Mike Collins ﬂoored Pat Brownson with his ﬁrst punch and the match ended a mere four seconds after the bell.

• A person who enjoys doing crossword puzzles is called a cruciverbalist.

• Nestor Carbonell’s portrayal of Richard Alpert on the hit TV series “Lost” led to an internet debate as to whether the actor was wearing eyeliner.

• During the Gemini IV missions in 1965, James McDivitt and Edward H. White were the first astronauts to have reportedly smuggled chewing gum into space without permission.

• On average, people in India spend 10 hours and 42 minutes a week reading, the most time of any country on Earth.

• Thumbs have their own pulse.

• The ringing of church bells at weddings can be traced to the Celtic heritage of Scotland and Ireland, when they were used to ward off evil spirits and grant wishes to the newlyweds.

• In 1965, Johnny Cash’s younger brother, Tommy Cash, released a song titled “I Didn’t Walk the Line.”

• Upon hearing that the Great Fire of London might destroy his house, English diarist Samuel Pepys took care to bury his most prized possessions in his garden — including a wheel of Parmesan cheese.

• Ravens in captivity can learn to talk better than parrots.

• When your “inner voice” speaks in your head, it triggers small muscle movements in your larynx.

• Each year, 40,000 tons of space dust settles on Earth.

***

Inc.

Shelby State Bank leader wins statewide award

SHELBY – Shelby State Bank President & CEO, Mishelle Comstock, has been named “Best of Community Banking” by Community Bankers of Michigan. Comstock will be presented the award at CBM’s annual convention in September. She was cited for significant achievements in banking, individual involvement in the community, bank performance, advocacy for the industry, and more.

Michael Tierney, President and CEO of the Community Bankers of Michigan (CBM), commented, “Shelley Comstock was unanimously selected by banking leaders in Michigan as this year’s winner of the “Best of Community Banking Award.” The award is given annually to a community banker who is an inspirational leader at their bank, and who is also a highly engaged leader in their communities.

The Hart VFW Post had its annual raffle at the Oceana County Fair last week. Kullen Lundborg, 4 years old, and the son of a firefighter, drew the winners Aug. 24 at 9:05 p.m. It is always the policy of the organizers to have someone draw the winners that did not purchase any tickets. The winners are: Gary Parsons (first place), $500; Renee Vanderlaan (second place), $300; and Ruth Burmeister (third place), $200. • Kevin VanDyke/Echo

PUBLIC NOTICE

COUNTY COMMISSIONER – DISTRICT #2

Due to the resignation of Mr. Phil Morse, the Oceana County Board of Commissioners is seeking interested individuals who reside and are registered to vote in County Commissioner District #2, Ferry and Shelby Townships, to serve on the Oceana County Board of Commissioners through December 31, 2024.

The duties of a county commissioner include setting policy and approving budgets as part of a five-member County Board of Commissioners in an organization of approximately 105 total employees and a budget of approximately $13 million.

The individual must reside and be a registered voter in Commissioner District #2 to represent the citizens of Commission District #2 and be available to attend official meetings of the Oceana County Board of Commissioners that meet on the 2nd and 4th Thursday of each month and a variety of other meetings.

Interested individuals shall submit a letter of interest no later than Friday, September 20, 2024, to the Office of the County Administrator, 100 State Street, M-4, Hart, MI 49420.

Applicants must be available for a brief interview between 9:15 a.m. and 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, September 26, 2024.

For additional information, call – Tracy Byard, County Administrator, 231-873-4835.

We are especially proud to have Shelley as the winner of this prestigious award as we celebrate the 50th anniversary of CBM representing the interests of banks in Michigan. Shelley is a former chair of CBM. She has a passion for serving the financial needs of clients in her community and making communities better through volunteer leadership in numerous organizations. She is the consummate community banker, and we are very proud of her professional accomplishments and her big heart for those who could use a hand up in life. She has all the “right stuff,” and we are so happy to recognize both her distinguished banking career, and the profound positive impact she has on her community.

Comstock has held a variety of positions during her 31 years with Shelby State Bank. She joined the bank in 1993, became a director in 2006, was named President in 2011, becoming President and Chief Executive Officer in 2016.

Mishelle has been an integral part of the bank’s strategic initiatives for many years and her major accomplishments include the purchase and ultimate sale of Gales Agency Insurance, establishment of wealth management services now called

Parallel Wealth Advisors, a joint venture with a title company, and the expansion of the bank’s branch network.

In the community, Comstock serves on the boards of Trinity Health Shelby (current board chair), Trinity Health Muskegon (past board chair), Oceana County Economic Alliance, Oceana County Development Corporation, Harbor Hospice, Shelby Rotary Club (past President), member of Women Who Care – Oceana County. She was past board member and chair of Community Foundation of Oceana County and Fountain Hill Counseling Center – Lakeshore. She is also involved at the state and national level for the Community Banking industry, serving on the board of Community Bankers of MI (past chair), and Independent Community Bankers of America Education Committee.

Shelby State Bank was established in 1931 and has grown to operate 10 branches in western Michigan, stretching from Manistee to Fruitport. Each branch offers a wide variety of consumer and business banking services. For more information about Shelby State Bank, call (231) 861-2123 or visit www. shelbybank.com.

Gracelyn Abby Crain

Diana and Dakota Crain of Rothbury welcome Gracelyn Abby Crain, born on July 23, 2024 at Corewell Health Gerber Hospital.

Tails of Hope

This handsome boy is looking for a loving home. His name is Jake, and he is very sweet and friendly. Jake is only two years old and weighs a healthy 65 pounds.

Jake does well on a leash and loves going on walks. This young man was scheduled to be neutered on Aug. 28.

Jake 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.

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

SEPTEMBER 7,

(OR UNTIL DUMPSTERS ARE FULL) FOR NEWFIELD TOWNSHIP RESIDENTS ONLY AND VILLAGE RESIDENTS IN NEWFIELD TOWNSHIP NO COST NO YARD WASTE, TIRES,

Hart Soccer stumbles out of conference gate with losses to Ludington, Montague

By: Brendan Samuels

The Oceana Echo Sports Editor

HART – For Hart’s boys soccer team, a 5-0 loss to Ludington wasn’t quite how it had hoped to open its conference schedule. Unfortunately, things didn’t get much better for the Pirates, Wednesday, Aug. 28 when they hosted Montague, dropping to 0-2 in the West Michigan Conference with an 0-6 loss to the Wildcats.

The Pirates were shutout in each of their first two conference games of the year, carrying the same mistakes that plagued them against the Orioles into the contest with Montague. The pair of losses comes as a surprise after Hart went 3-1 in their first four games of the 2024 season.

“I’m not exactly sure what happened after our first four games when we went to play Ludington,” Hart head coach Joe Gilbert said. “We started to play selfishly and not the team game that we’ve trained to play. We sat down after that Ludington game and talked about it and they identified the issues and we tried to remedy those. I just did not see many of them step up today.”

From the start of their fight with Montague, Hart looked to be just a step slower to the ball in comparison to the rival Wild-

SPORTS

HART • HESPERIA • PENTWATER • SHELBY • WALKERVILLE

Dealmonte scores hat-trick as Shelby defeats Reed City by mercy rule

By: Brendan Samuels The Oceana Echo Sports Editor

SHELBY – There was no doubt who was the better team on the field, Friday, Aug. 23 when Shelby’s boys soccer team throttled Reed City to the tune of an 8-0 victory.

After going 0-2-1 in their initial action of the 2024 season, the Tigers were in dire need of something positive. Shelby’s third game was an 8-0 loss to Alma, a team that finished as an MHSAA D3 semifinalist in 2023.

sist with consecutive goals over the next 17 minutes, putting Shelby in front of Reed City, 3-0. Senior Alvin Espinosa was just as effective, assisting Dealmonte on both of those goals.

“These first few weeks we’ve been working a lot on technique,” Damian Gonzalez said. “We’ve been trying to get the ball out wide and make those runs out wide. We seemed to do really well with that today.”

first half was close to shutting the game down early, as an eighth goal would spell a mercy rule victory for Shelby. That didn’t work out before time expired in the first half, but it didn’t take long for the Tigers to get going in the second half.

cats. That led to a dominant showing in terms of possession for Montague, leading to many more looks at the net.

Hart was unable to stop one Montague striker in particular as senior Trevor Trevino netted four goals against the Pirates. In a game that was filled with mistakes and lack of communication, Gilbert did identify one bright spot in junior Chase Lorenz. Lorenz was a star for Hart’s track and field program last spring, and his speed has proved to be an asset on the soccer field as well.

“Chase Lorenz is a junior, but he’s the one that I was listening to, communicating, trying to talk and call for crosses. He was hustling hard,” Gilbert said. “(Lorenz’s speed) is a threat, but he’s got to work on putting a good ball in. There’s no use in having a player that’s fast but can’t do anything with the ball. He’s worked very very hard for what he’s got, but we’ve got to ask him to improve and wait for his teammates so he can cross that ball.”

Hart fell to 3-3 overall with the pair of losses and will look to take the Labor Day weekend break to fix what they can before taking a road trip to Whitehall. The Pirates will look to improve their 0-2

6:45

“Yesterday we played against Alma and last year they were state semifinalists and before that, Kent City looked great,” Shelby head coach Damian Gonzalez said. “Reed City has a lot of heart, but luckily we were able to find an opponent where we could implement some of the things we’ve been trying to practice on. This served as a good enough trial.”

The competition that welcomed them at their home field on Friday wasn’t quite at that level. Reed City was a team that finished 9-10 last year, but in 2024 the Coyotes have yet to score a goal through four games.

With a weaker opponent in front of them, the chances for Shelby to earn its first win under first year head coach Gonzalez seemed sky high. The Tigers’ hopes were realized almost immediately as the team snagged momentum and never let go.

With less than three minutes ticking off the clock in the first half, Shelby struck on a goal from sophomore Venancio Cadena Arvizu. Assisting Cadena Arvizu was junior Alex Dealmonte, starting an offensive onslaught for the Tiger striker.

Dealmonte followed up the as-

By: Brendan Samuels The Oceana Echo Sports Editor

SHELBY – For the first time in the last four years, there will not be a Jazwinski running the ship for Hart’s cross country team. Instead, the cross country and track phenoms will take their talents to Shelby, though their status with the Tigers is still in question.

According to Shelby’s head cross country coach Caity Soelberg, the Jazwinski family has run into a few roadblocks with the MHSAA –Michigan’s governing body for high school sports.

“(The Jazwinski family) have enrolled their children at Shelby this

With just 20 minutes having passed in the first half and a 3-0 lead, the Tigers could sniff a blowout victory. Not resting on their laurels, the offense pushed the pace of the game and extended their lead to 7-0 before the first half had come to a close.

Scoring in the final 20 minutes of the first half were junior Sammy Castro, Dealmonte, and seniors Jonny Gonzalez and Nathan Miller.

Miller’s goal was one that shocked Damian Gonzalez in particular as the Shelby senior typically resides on the defensive back line. That didn’t stop Miller from pushing forward on a corner kick opportunity, finding the ball mid-air and using his head to push it across the goal line.

The 7-0 score at the end of the

An eighth and final goal was scored after just two and half minutes had passed in the second half. Caden Arvizu made it a multi-goal game, notching his second on an assist from junior Eli Kelley to finish the night’s proceedings early.

The win pushed Shelby to a 1-2-1 overall record, but more importantly it provided Shelby with some confidence as they tumble full force into a challenging conference schedule.

“(This win) is pretty big. The boys need it and Montague is looking pretty good,” Damian Gonzalez said. “That’s going to be a big test.”

That conference schedule began with Montague, Monday, Aug. 26. While Shelby battled the Wildcats close, even taking a 1-0 lead early in the second half, Montague came away with a 2-1 win to push the Tigers to 0-1 in the West Michigan Conference.

year,” Soelberg told The Oceana Echo. “They appealed (to the) MHSAA to allow for Bobby and Jessie to run for Shelby and they were denied. They have sent a second appeal and are hoping to hear back in September. So, that means they are not allowed to run with our team at meets unless this second appeal works.”

The MHSAA handbook states that, as a part of its Sport-Specific Transfer Regulation, that unless a high school student meets one of the 15 stated exceptions (most exceptions involve a defined residential change) a student will not be eligible for the next season in

standing in the WMC, Wednesday, Sept. 4 at

p.m. on the Vikings’ home field.

Shelby senior Jessie Jazwinski crosses the finish line as a member of the Hart Pirates during the 2023 cross country state finals. • Andy Roberts/ECHO

Shelby senior Venancio Cadena Arvizu watched a ball roll towards the net after moving it forward with a header. Caden Arvizu scored two goals in the Tigers’ 8-0 win over Reed City, Friday, Aug. 23. • Brendan Samuels/ECHO

Hart senior Carter Ramseyer battles through a pair of Montague forwards in an attempt to clear the ball out of the Pirates’ defensive territory. The Pirates fell to Montague in a 6-0 shutout loss. • Brendan Samuels/ECHO

Jazwinski transfers

a sport he or she participated in at his or her former high school (any level) during the most recent previous school year. Regulations and exemptions for this rule can be found at https://www.mhsaa.com/sites/default/files/2022-06/Regulations%20Summarized%20 Transfer.pdf

For sophomore Bobby Jazwinski III and senior Jessie Jazwinski, that means both would be forced to miss the cross country and track & field seasons in 2024. That rule hits exceptionally hard for Jessie, who entered her final high school season with hopes of taking home her third consecutive individual state title in cross country. That won’t be possible unless the second appeal attempt is granted by the MHSAA.

“(Bobby and Jessie) are practicing with the (Shelby) team and absolutely love the coaches and runners,” Katie and Bob Jazwinski, parents of Jessie and Bobby said in a statement to The Oceana Echo. “They will more than likely have to sit out the year from running for Shelby. Unfortunately, it’s Jessie’s senior year, but she is happier at Shelby.”

The inability to compete as part of a team hasn’t stopped the Jazwinski runners from posting their usual impressive times, however. Bobby, Jessie and their younger siblings Johnny and Sammi, all participated

continued from page 11

in the 5K Open race at the Pete Moss Invite in Benzie, Saturday, Aug. 24.

Bobby came away with a first place time of 15:57.1 on the men’s side, with younger brother Johnny coming in 14th place at 20:55.7. Jessie was just as impressive on the women’s side, taking first place as well with a time of 16:52. Younger sister Sammi was behind Jessie in second place, notching a time of 20:31.3.

Whether or not the Jazwinski family is able to compete this year remains to be seen. Jessie’s future in running is already secured, having committed to the NCAA D1 program at N.C. State University.

For Bobby and his younger siblings, a year off will produce a unique challenge to continue the standard they set for themselves when they were at Hart, but without the regulation of being on a high school team.

Regardless of their status with the MHSAA, the Jazwinski family seems fully committed to Shelby and creating a new legacy for the Tigers. Soelberg noted that Bob Jazwinski has become her new assistant coach and has been fully involved with the team in the early part of the season.

“Bob is my new assistant coach at Shelby,” Soelberg said. “We love the energy and passion their family brings to our cross country program at Shelby.”

Young Hart teams take second place at Benzie Pete Moss Invite

By: Brendan Samuels

The Oceana Echo Sports Editor

Both Hart’s boys and girls cross country teams found success in their first action of the 2024 season with each taking second place at the Pete Moss Invite in Benzie, MI.

There are a lot of new faces leading the charge for Hart now that familiar names are no longer donning the red and black. Holes were available to be filled with Allyson Enns and Jessie Jazwinski moving on.

Sophomore Natalie Rosema led the way for the Pirates, claiming ninth place with a time of 20:59.2. Freshman Alaina Schaner was directly behind Rosema, claiming 11th place with a mark of 21:06.5.

Lexie Beth Nienhuis is now the lone upperclassmen in Hart’s top seven on the girls side. Nienhuis was the third Pirate to cross the finish line, taking 20th overall at 21:51. Hart’s female runners were capped off with a trio of freshmen. Bryn Riley (22:10) came in 27th, Luisa Vander Zwaag (22:27.9) claimed 30th and Joselyn Flores (22:45.5) came in 38th.

The youth movement is also present for the boys team. Of the 10 boys that ran for Hart in Benzie, four were freshmen and four were sophomores. There are no seniors on the team this year.

The Ackley bunch are back in full force as well. Freshman Silas Ackley was the Pirates’ top finisher in 12th place individually with a time of 17:29.8.

Freshman Grant Ackley (17:55.2) came in 22nd while sophomore Carson Ackley (17:58.9) finished in 28th.

One of the boys’ lone upperclassmen, Jack Slotman, finished the day in 16th overall with a time of 17:43.6. The Pirates’ other junior, Bryce Vander Kodde, came in 64th individually with a time of 19:19.5.

Other finishers for Hart’s boys team included sophomore Mason Opalewski (18:14.4) in 32nd, freshman Timothy Wolff (18:16.4) in 35th, sophomore Pascal Miller (18:24.4) in 39th, sophomore Aiden Schaner (18:25.1) in 40th and freshman Trevor Vander Kodde (18:33) in 44th. Hesperia, Shelby and Pentwater were all in attendance as well. The

Panthers’ boys came in 14th as a team, Shelby’s boys came in 17th while the girls finished in seventh and Pentwater’s boys finished in 19th.

Hesperia’s efforts were led by sophomore Nate Ruhstorfer (18:47.8) in 51st, senior Andrew Sherburn (18:47.8) in 60th and junior Zack Temple (19:19) in 63rd. Senior Kennedy Mey led the way for the Panthers’ trio of girl competitors, finishing in 78th with a time of 25:17.4. Sophomore Rokhaya Ruhstorfer (26:12.1) finished in 89th and junior Elyssa Wright (30:11) in 119th.

Pentwater’s boys team, much like Hart, is full of youth. The Falcons were led by junior Wyatt Roberts (19:23.2) in 67th place and freshman Tyler Zim-

mer (21:17.7) in 101st. A small list of female Falcons were also in attendance, led by sophomore Bailey Case (23:55.8) in 59th place.

Shelby’s boys got an inspired 18:43.5 run from junior Iziquiel Picon, earning him a 49th place finish. The Shelby girls showed a lot of growth as sophomore Lydia Soelberg ran a 21:11 and placed 13th overall. Fellow sophomores Grace Hasenbank (22:56.1) and Noel Parker (23:24) finished 40th and 46th. Rounding out Shelby’s female runners were sophomore Sydney Reed (27:54.1), juniors Zoe Cornaby (27:54.8) and April Luna (28:05.5), freshman Zanna Cornaby (30:13.9), and sophomores Erin Cruz (30:46) and Emma Smith (30:49).

JOB POSTING

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.

Reflections of our community

White Lake Mirror

White Lake Mirror White Lake Mirror

YOUR LOCALLY OWNED AND OPERATED NONPROFIT NEWS SOURCE

The kayaks come out for Float-a-Palooza

New Saturday date brings slight downturn from 2023

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

MONTAGUE — While overall participation in the third annual Float-aPalooza, which took place Saturday, was down from a year ago, John Hanson of the White Lake Snow Farmers was pleased with the community reaction to what’s becoming an area tradition.

“We think it all went really well,” Hanson said. “Everyone we talked to had a good time.”

Hanson said just under 400 kayakers were part of the connected flotilla in the middle of White Lake, which is 60 or so down from a year ago.

The Snow Farmers believe part of the reason for the downturn was the new Saturday date, which put the Float-a-Palooza opposite the Burning Foot beer festival in Muskegon. Pre-

vious Float-a-Paloozas took place the Sunday prior to the Labor Day weekend.

Another reason, echoing something Hanson said a year ago, was that the Snow Farmers believe they need to get the word out about the event earlier than they are. Because volunteers helping the Snow Farmers with the event are also part of the Walk the Beat White Lake festival, which takes place only a month prior, the event tends to

just run out of manpower.

“Getting it publicized, getting the word out, is a big problem for us,”

Hanson said. “We have a very limited budget, so we don’t have advertising ability. Social media and that type of thing is what we’re relying on, and not everyone is on Facebook. It’s, ‘How do you reach those people?’”

“Getting it publicized, getting the word out, is a big problem for us,” Hanson said. “We have a very limited budget, so we don’t have advertising ability. Social media and that type of thing is what we’re relying on, and not everyone is on Facebook. It’s, ‘How do you reach those people?’”

years,

On board the boat, local

local

Wildcats getting excited for new gym

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

MONTAGUE — Montague High School’s new performance gymnasium is progressing well, and according to athletic director Jay Mulder, buzz is beginning to build among the students and athletes at the school who will soon get to utilize it.

“I have kids almost every day that say, ‘Hey, Coach, when can we get in there for games?’” Montague athletic director Jay Mulder said.

The answer is almost certainly before the end of the school year; the gym is on course to be completed next spring. There’s some optimism it may be completed before then, mostly because this last winter was a mild one and the contractors, led by WinBerg Construction, were able to work all through the winter.

“That’s the biggest thing right there,” said job site superintendent Dan Vincent. “I have a couple of really good subcontractors.”

• Andy Roberts/Mirror

While there’s hope of an accelerated timeline, understandably, no one is setting a date or necessarily planning for an early completion.

That said, should the gym be ready and cleared for mass occupancy by local authorities prior to the end of the winter sports season, Mulder said, the

school would immediately move home events into it.

“Our plan is to hopefully have everything done so it will be a turnkey and we’ll be ready for business,” Mulder said.

Whitehall council goes over safety, environmental concerns

By Madison Lajewski White Lake Mirror Writer

WHITEHALL — Whitehall’s city council again discussed safety concerns regarding student pick-up and drop-off at Ealy Elementary School at its meeting Tuesday.

Councilman Scott Brown voiced his concerns previously at the Aug 13 meeting, with city manager Scott Huebler saying the city would talk to the school to find possible solutions. Huebler said Tuesday the school will

send out reminders to parents about, among other things, not blocking intersections. Huebler said he feels as of right now, there is nothing to change and not much the city can do to improve these traffic concerns.

Councilwoman Tanya Cabala reiterated her concerns about emergency weather warning protocols. This has been voiced a few times since the devastating thunderstorm in June. At the time, Cabala was shocked no sirens were sounded prior to or during the storm. It was later discovered that Mus-

kegon County, like other counties and cities, no longer uses sirens because of the high cost of maintenance. Cabala wants to research what other communities are doing to warn residents to take shelter from dangerous weather and has also requested a meeting with the county official who is in charge of emergencies.

“We have different populations with a variety of needs and I want to know how we’re reaching those folks,” Cabala said.

Cabala also shared that 2024 marks

the 10th anniversary of White Lake being delisted as an area of concern by the Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement. The Great Lakes Commission recently reported high, unsafe levels of toxic algae in Muskegon Lake, spilling into Lake Michigan. A member of the White Lake Association present at the meeting said they have already received funding and will be receiving water testing to ensure White Lake is still safe.

previous years, the Float-aPalooza featured hundreds of folks bringing kayaks, either their own or rented ones, onto White Lake and parking next to a boat in the middle of the lake. On board the boat,

The annual drone shot that documents participation in the Float-a-Palooza caught just under 400 kayakers, a slight decrease from 2023’s group. • Courtesy Photo

Kayakers head towards the boat that served as headquarters during Saturday’s Floata-Palooza. • Andy Roberts/Mirror

The new gymnasium is the result of a school bond issue that was narrowly approved by district voters in August

Montague High School’s new gym is under construction. The new gym will be below the entrance to the facility. • Andy Roberts/Mirror

Workers inspect the ceiling of Montague High School’s new gym Wednesday morning. The facility is set to open by the end of the school year.

previous

the Float-aPalooza featured hundreds of folks bringing kayaks, either their own or rented ones, onto White Lake and parking next to a boat in the middle of the lake.

The annual drone shot that documents participation in the Float-a-Palooza caught just under 400 kayakers, a slight decrease from 2023’s group. • Courtesy Photo

Kayakers head towards the boat that served as headquarters during Saturday’s Floata-Palooza. • Andy Roberts/Mirror

The new gymnasium

the result of a school bond issue that was narrowly approved by district voters in August

Montague High School’s new gym is under construction. The new gym will be

entrance to the facility. • Andy Roberts/Mirror

Workers inspect the ceiling of Montague High School’s new gym Wednesday morning. The facility is set to open by the end of the school year.

Montague plans 2nd annual Wildcat Salute

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

Retired Montague music teacher Jacquie Wood was thrilled with the way her first Wildcat Salute, an event prior to the Montague football game against Manistee, came out last October, apart from the weather - “cold and miserable,” Wood said.

This year’s event should help remedy that drawback, as it will take place for the Wildcats’ home opener Sept. 6 against Oakridge.

Wood, who was well-known locally for her annual patriotic concerts during her time at Montague, launched the Salute last year as a way to honor veterans, active-duty military, police, firefighters and first responders. She said she’d never have had the time to pull the event together were she not retired, but finds the work very rewarding.

“It’s always fun to honor people who are deserving,” Wood said. “It’s wonderful, and I love the opportunity to honor them. More importantly, we are teaching our children to honor them and realize they’re doing things for you that you’ll often overlook.”

Wood regularly meets with Montague athletic director Jay Mulder to plan this year’s activities. Mulder said

he felt like the Wildcat athletes got a boost from the original Salute, noting the game against the Mariners was likely the team’s best of the season.

“The reception we got was great, and the kids really loved it,” Mulder said. “That sort of gave our team a bit of a boost. This year Jacquie really got going on it early and set the date, I think, six months ago.”

The pregame salute will begin at 6 p.m. prior to the 7 p.m. game, with gates opening at 5. All honorees are admitted free and are encouraged to attend the game in uniform if they choose.

The pregame ceremony will consist of a motorcycle parade, a Quilt of Valor ceremony, a color guard, and a POW/ MIA table ceremony. Both teams will also be able to participate in a handshake line with the honored guests.

Displays from military and first responders will also be part of the festivities and shown off in the circle drive in front of the Townsend Complex. Wood said the Hooligan Flight Team will also perform a flyover prior to the game. She is also hopeful there will be a parachutist to deliver the game ball to the field, but that is dependent on a lack of wind.

The Hometown Hero honoree will

City hall seminar to address storm readiness

The City of Whitehall will host two free seminars at city hall Thursday Sept. 5 at 6 p.m. to address storm readiness and recovery and navigating insurance claims. The topics are timely for those in the area who were affected by the late-June storm that left many properties damaged, as well as for those concerned about what may happen if their home is hit in a future weather incident.

City manager Scott Huebler, police

chief Roger Squiers and fire chief Pete McCarthy will present the seminar. Following their presentation, Globe Midwest Adjusters International CEO Ethan Gross will present an additional seminar with advice on navigating insurance claims. On its website, Globe Midwest says it works with claimants and their insurance companies to achieve the best possible settlements when claims are made.

and emergency personnel were

for

return as well. Last year, the late Jack Woller, a Montague alum who died while serving in the Vietnam War, received the award posthumously, and this year, Wayne Schneider will be honored. Wood said Schneider graduated from Montague during the 1950s and served in the U.S. Navy, including a tour in the Philippines.

“He has so many stories, and is just wonderful to talk to,” Wood said of Schneider.

Wood looks forward to the Minute of Change, an in-game event where Montague will collect donations for local veterans organizations. She was wowed by last year’s fundraising,

last

which drew a big response despite the poor weather limiting the crowd.

“Even though there were so few people, we made quite a bit of money,” Wood said, adding with a laugh, “People were putting in $20s.”

The Montague student section will get in on the act as well, with a patriotic theme set for the game. It should all add up to a memorable evening.

“If you’ve ever needed an ambulance or a fireman, you know they can save your lives and that they’re heroes,” Wood said. “That goes without saying. I think people really want to honor them. I’m excited.”

2022. The bond also provided funds for a new agricultural barn for the high school and, if funds are available, will include new auditorium lights and upgrades to the performing arts center as well.

musician Tommy Foster played popular tunes and created a positive atmosphere. Bright, sunny, warm weather also added to the good vibes.

This year, the lake moved into the middle of the lake after previously having been parked close to shore. Hanson said this was done to avoid shallow water and weeds that would make it difficult to kayak.

Despite the issue of Burning Foot, Hanson said the Snow Farmers intend to keep Float-a-Palooza on a Saturday next year, reasoning that the Sunday is the last day before school begins for several local districts and they would lose participation from people because of the time constraints that causes.

The Snow Farmers will donate 10 percent of the proceeds from the Floata-Palooza to the White Lake Association, continuing with a tradition they began with the start of the event to donate to local nonprofits.

Hanson hopes added volunteers in future years will create more participation in the Float-a-Palooza, and interest has already come in from some local residents.

“We need to increase our helpers and diffuse the workload,” Hanson said. “We’ve had several people step up saying, ‘We’d be glad to help next year,’ and things like that. We’ll see what happens.”

The most obvious change Wildcat fans will notice about the new gym will be its configuration. The entrance to the gym will be above the floor, with bleachers and stairs to go down to it. Such gyms often appear somewhat cavernous to new visitors, but Mulder said Montague took pains to ensure this one would maintain a cozy feel, with only “about 1,500” seats. The Wildcats did not want to completely lose the feel of their current gym, which is one of the most tightly packed in the area.

“There will not be a bad seat in it,” Mulder said. “We were very purposeful, because we wanted a (cozy) gym... We didn’t want it to seem like, ‘Oh my goodness, the gym is super big.’

“This gym will be a unique gym. There will be nothing like it in the area. I feel very fortunate for a school our size to have a new state of the art gym.”

The improvements will go beyond merely a prettier gym and better score-

boards, which CatchMark Technologies is furnishing. There will be practical benefits as well - the new arena will house an upgraded weight room. The increased space will also allow for keeping the winter sports teams under one roof rather than scattering them throughout the district for practices, which has often been necessary in the past.

“We’ll be able to have all our basketball teams practice in house,” Mulder said. “(Before,) they’d have to go to the middle school or RRO (Elementary) to have them all practice. We’ll be able to get the wrestling teams in house again. Right now they practice at the middle school cafeteria.”

Mulder allows that like his athletes, he’s also getting fired up for the gym’s opening, especially because he has a view of it from his office at the school. Whenever the day comes to host events, the Wildcats will be ready to roll.

“You see the progress made in just over a year, and it’s phenomenal,” Mulder said. “We’re very excited to get in there and I know our kids are feeling the excitement as well.”

The entrance to the new Montague High School gym is beginning to take shape as the facility is set to open within the next several months. • Andy Roberts/Mirror

Kayakers wave to the drone taking their photo during Saturday’s Float-a-Palooza. Nearly 400 were on the water during the annual White Lake Snow Farmers fundraiser. • Andy Roberts/Mirror

Military

honored at

year’s first annual Wildcat Salute. A second event is planned

Friday, Sept. 6 prior to Montague’s home football opener.

• Courtesy Photo

Saturday, Aug. 31

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, Sept. 1

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

Monday, Sept. 2

18th Annual Labor Day Commu-

Community Calendar

nity Walk, 10 a.m. Beginning at the Hart-Montague Bike Trail behind Montague Foods. Walkers are welcome to this free event modeled after the Mackinac Bridge Walk. Light refreshments available at the end of the walk in front of the White Lake Chamber & Visitor’s Bureau building.

Community Yoga @ Fruitland Twp. Hall, 10 a.m. Free to participate

($5 suggested donation), open to all ages and skill levels.

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

Wednesday, Sept. 4

Snacktivity @ MADL Montague branch, 3-5 p.m. Games, crafts, Lego and more. Snacks provided.

Thursday, Sept. 5

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.

Friday, Sept. 6

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 M. B. Covell

By Barbara Bedau Brow Volunteer Contributor

The Mark B. Covell was built for the White Lake Transportation Co. in 1888 to replace the A. D. Hayward. She was built for the lumber trade and carrying some passengers. She ran from White Lake to Chicago.

Built in Manitowoc, Wisconsin by Burger and Burger, the wooden hulled vessel was 130.9 feet in length with a 26.8-foot beam. The engine was built by the Montague Iron Works. She had the capacity to handle 250,000 feet of lumber.

In March 1889 the captain and his crew were announced. Captain Horace Sanders was in charge with assistance from Billy Ingles and Elisha Stevens. Derrick Hall was assigned to turn the throttle, assisted by Frank Coleman, and John Straney was to furnish the fuel. Jonah Cotton and Cash Braggs attended the culinary department and staterooms.

On Friday morning, April 11, 1890, the steamer Covell succeeded in plow-

ing her way out of the channel, and as she swung about in the high seas to take a header to Chicago, she struck an unknown bar about 500 feet from the south pier. She was in imminent danger of disaster, and undoubtedly would have gone to pieces had she not been such a staunch boat.

Captain Lysaght’s lifesaving crew immediately sent a boat out to her, and all hands turned in to jettison her cargo. About 1500 oak ties were thrown overboard and the boat kept hard at work. She finally cleared the bar and immediately brought it back into the harbor again. Most of the jettisoned cargo went on the beach and was afterwards picked up, so that the damage was not so great. The captain, however, made a public protest as to the need for the harbor to be made safe and accessible, an issue that was not a new one.

In March 1891, the M. B. Covell was sold to Smith & Kitzinger of Manistee and operated by Manistee & Milwaukee Transportation Co.

Conservation District set to host upcoming workshops

The Muskegon Conservation District will host a pair of workshops over the next few weeks at its Twin Lake office on Holton Road.

The first of the two events, set for Sept. 10, will discuss doe management. Tim Boetsma, founder and operator of Doe Patrol West Michigan, will join MCD from 5:30-7 p.m. to discuss with attendees how managing doe populations in West Michigan benefits deer herds from a hunter’s perspective, as well as the culinary advantages of harvesting does.

Doe Patrol seeks to raise funds to support local nonprofits and address food deficiencies in the area.

A second event Sept. 19, titled Native Plants for Pollinators, offers the opportunity to learn how to create and manage gardens for an eco-centric perspective rather than a human-centric one. Attendees will learn how to create gardens that help pollinators, butterflies, beneficial insects and birds - even in small spaces.

A gallery of native plants will be displayed and attendees will receive a guide that includes bloom time for each plant and how that species supports local pollinators, as well as horticulture tips.

Tickets to either event are available now for $10 each. Space is limited. To register, visit MCD’s office or call 231-828-5097.

Fall programs for kids and teens at the library

By Virginia DeMumbrum Volunteer Contributor

The library has a great new fall lineup of storytimes, family events, and teen hangouts. The fun begins the week of Sept. 9, with Family

Storytime Mondays at 9:30 a.m.,

Baby Time Tuesdays at 9:30 a.m., and Play & Learn Fridays at 10 a.m. Thursday nights are for families, with a special Michigan Wildlife program set for 5:30 p.m. Sept. 12. The next five Thursdays will be a series of 1-2-3 Play With Me workshops beginning Sept. 19. These workshops begin at 5:30 p.m. and are for families with children ages 0-5. Each session features games and activites, along with a different early childhood professional each week for informal conversations about nutrition, health, speech development, and more.

Friday afternoons at 2 p.m., area youth ages 10 and up are invited to make new friends, do some crafts, play some games, eat some snacks, or just hang out at the library together. The library’s Switch and the VR headset will be available as well.

Registration is required for the workshops, but all other programs and events are just come-when-you-can. For more information on any of the events, or to register for the 1-2-3 Play With Me workshops, please visit the website at wlclib.org/calendar.

Seed Harvesting and Fall Pollinator Workshop

Come to the library at 11 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 14, to check out the new Pollinator Paradise Garden. Learn about the importance of pollinators for our food supply, explore ideas for creating your own pollinator-friendly garden, and discover techniques for harvesting seeds from native plants to support local biodiversity. This event will be led by Sarah R. Filley. To help us plan, please register online at wlclib. org/calendar or by phone at 231-8949531.

FUN FACT: More than 100 U.S. grown crops rely on pollinators, including Michigan’s fruit trees, blueberries, pumpkins, and melons. The added revenue to crop production from pollinators is valued at $18 billion.

Second Annual Good Neighbor Day Dinner

Celebrate National Good Neighbor Day Thursday, Sept. 26, at the second annual one-long-table dinner. Come share a delicious family-style meal and engage in open conversation with your neighbors in the White Lake area. The table will be set on Slocum Street next to The Playhouse at White Lake, with dinner starting at 6 p.m. The library is hosting the event in partnership with the City of Whitehall, The Playhouse at White Lake, Debbie Does Dishes, and Lebanon Lutheran Church, and the meal will be catered by Bone Ends. Seats are limited, so reserve your spot today by visiting wlclib. org/calendar or calling 231-894-9531. Road Closing, Library Open!

The Muskegon County Road Commission will begin replacing the failing

culvert on White Lake Drive beginning Tuesday, Sept. 3. The culvert is just west of the library entrance, and the road will be completely closed between the library and Mears/Zellar. The library will remain open during the construction, but visitors will need to come in from the east. The posted detour will be Zellar to Lakewood to Blank. The work is expected to take 6-8 weeks to complete. We appreciate your patience, and we hope you will help spread the word that the library is open despite the road closure.

DeMumbrum

The Mark B. Covell shown in Chicago. Date unknown. • Courtesy Photo

Lake Mirror Lake Mirror

NONPROFIT NEWS SOURCE community

Vikings topple N. Muskegon for 1st win

Mason Mulnix scores both Viking goals in win

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

WHITEHALL — Whitehall finally shook the North Muskegon hex of the past few years Monday night with an impressive showing in a 2-1 victory to open West Michigan Conference action.

The win was a result, in part, of the Vikings’ approach to the early season. Whitehall knew the Norsemen would be its first league opponent, so it scheduled three top foes for mid-August to get itself ready for the challenge. All of those games - Fruitport, Allendale and Mona Shores -were losses, but the approach paid off.

“Those are two Division 2 schools and a Division 1 school,” Whitehall coach Adam Prince said, noting the trio’s combined record is 11-3 so far. “We tried to see if we could boost up the beginning to get us ready to play this game, because they’ve had our number for quite a few years now, and we wanted to get the tide turned back to our table.”

The heat - temperatures were above 80 degrees at kickoff, necessitating two hydration breaks during the gameprobably kept the Vikes (1-3, 1-0 WMC) from deploying the speed advantage they felt they had on the wings, but ball possession was strong for most of the

first half. An early goal by Mason Mulnix, less than nine minutes into play, was a big confidence boost.

“That helped my morale out through the rest of the game,” Mulnix said. “Every single time I get a goal, it helps me build up my intensity and helps me throughout the year.”

Whitehall’s possession only improved throughout the first half, and it cashed in with 5:43 left before halftime when Ian Hinze fed Mulnix a terrific centering pass that created an easy tap-in for Mulnix and gave Whitehall a 2-0 lead at the break.

The Norsemen were awarded a penalty kick on a foul in the box and scored on it early in the second half, but couldn’t capitalize on it. As the sec-

Whitehall

tops Norse continued on page 5

Rockets rebound from tough start, go 2-1 at quad

R-P rallies after tough opening loss to Fruitport

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

MUSKEGON — The bumps in the road are still coming for Reeths-Puffer, but the Rockets’ improvement from last fall is still plain to see. Wednesday was just the latest example, as R-P went 2-1 at a home quad meet and left it feeling like the third match got away.

The Rockets opened the night with a tough defeat to Fruitport, which went on to go 3-0 at the quad. R-P held a big lead in game one before the Trojans rallied to win it 27-25 on the way to a two-game sweep.

“I wish I could pinpoint what it was, whether it was X rotation...but I don’t know what it was,” R-P coach Justin Birr said. “Fruitport is a good team and they just went 3-0 tonight, and that says something, but we were up 18-9 or 18-10 in that first set. You’ve got to finish when you only have to score seven to their 15.”

Despite that setback - and despite letting another lead get away in game one against Ludington in their second match - the Rockets (4-3) persevered. R-P rallied to beat the Orioles, 22-25,

Reeths-Puffer’s Makayla Disselkoen spikes the ball at Ludington defender Jaelyn Laird during Wednesday’s R-P Quad. Disselkoen led the team with 14 kills as the Rockets went 2-1. • Andy Roberts/Mirror

25-23, 15-10, and then cruised past Ravenna, 25-7, 25-11.

In game two against Ludington, the O’s were on the verge of a sweep until R-P scored four straight points, including two aces by Grace Darke, to steal the game en route to a win. Makayla Disselkoen then capped the outburst with a game-clinching kill.

It was only the latest sign that while the Rockets aren’t yet physically the team they want to be, they are well ahead of a year ago mentally. R-P went 0-2 at this same event last year when it

Reeths-Puffer’s Kiera Ketner (left) lines up a pass as teammates Mady Snyder (11) and Makayla Disselkoen look on during Wednesday’s Rocket Quad. R-P went 2-1 on the day with wins over Ludington and Ravenna. • Andy Roberts/Mirror

was a tri against Fruitport and Ravenna.

“These girls can overcome that frustration,” Birr said. “They don’t feel defeated like last season. We feel like we can figure that out and work at our level, stay at our level longer, if that makes sense.”

It helps to have a more dynam-

ic attack offensively, and the Rockets are enjoying that. Middle hitters Disselkoen and Mairyn Peterson led the team with 14 and 10 kills respectively, and having them as options takes pressure off outside hitters Mady Snyder

Whitehall’s Keegan Frees (6) knocks the ball free from North Muskegon’s Marco Garcia during Monday’s WMC game at Whitehall. Frees’ strong defensive play helped propel the Vikings to a 2-1 win. • Andy Roberts/Mirror

Whitehall’s Evan Jud (1) keeps the pressure on North Muskegon’s Serj Pastor during Monday’s game at Whitehall. The Vikings won, 2-1. • Andy Roberts/Mirror

Whitehall’s Ian Hinze races into the offensive zone while Bronson Hurst defends for North Muskegon during Monday’s game at Whitehall. • Andy Roberts/Mirror

New courts don’t bring luck for Vikings

Whitehall resurfaced tennis courts this month

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

WHITEHALL — Spring Lake proved to be rude guests on Whitehall’s newly resurfaced courts Wednesday afternoon, defeating the Vikings 6-2.

The match was Whitehall’s first at home since the resurfacing was completed. True to school board treasurer Jimmy TenBrink’s joking request when the board approved the cost of resurfacing the courts, the familiar green and blue courts are now red and black, mimicking the Vikings’ school colors.

Evan Schuitema earned the Vikings’ singles win, at #3 singles, taking a 6-3, 6-2 decision. Whitehall’s #4 doubles pair,

Rocket

and Alissa Klopp.

Evan Thomas/Elijah Roberge, secured a second win, taking a 6-2, 6-2 victory.

The Vikes came close to a third win at #1 doubles, as

Patrick Cole/Ian Sampson lost a hotly contested match to Owen Malaski/Kody Vis by a 7-6(4), 7-5 score.

Quad

“Our first thought when we get a good pass is, let’s run the middle,” Birr said. “It’s more efficient. We probably kill the ball 50-60 percent of the time on a good pass to the middle, while on the outside, we’ll kill the ball 40 percent of the time on a really good pass. It’s nice to have options.”

Setters Madilynn Dyer and Darke had some success running the two-setter offense, with Dyer posting 24 assists and Darke adding 19. The duo were also strong on defense; Dyer had 17 digs and Darke 11.

The Rockets will have some time off competing before their next meet, the Fruitport Invitational Sept. 7. That will give them some much-needed time to continue to improve. After that, it’s the grueling O-K Green Conference slate, which will give Birr an idea of how successful his scheduling move to play mostly smaller schools - and give his team some confidence - worked.

Reeths-Puffer’s Alissa Klopp fires a spike at Ludington’s Sierra Surd during Wednesday’s R-P Quad. The Rockets beat Ludington and went 2-1 on the night. • Andy Roberts/Mirror

Early returns, certainly in the mental game that’s so important for any athlete, are positive.

“I think there’s a different Intensity about it, a ‘win every point’ mentality, instead of trying to hang on or scrape by,” Birr said. “I think a lot of times last year, we kind of broke even when we were serving, and when it came to serve receive we’d lose a few in a row. If you play a negative game like that, it’s really hard to win. I think our all-around game, our serving game has gotten stronger so that’s helped us in other areas.”

Whitehall tops Norse

ond half progressed, they began attacking and creating scoring chances, but the Viking defense kept any of those opportunities from being clear shots at the goal. Prince credited Keegan Frees, who had a pivotal slide tackle on the defensive end late in the game, and Royce Freed with clearing the ball aside several times before the Norsemen could seriously threaten keeper Andon Palmer.

“The best way to say that is we weathered a giant storm,” Prince said. “They brought everything they had to try to tie it up. We didn’t do our best job of clearing the ball out of there, but we did just enough to not give them any clean looks. I don’t think they had a clean shot on goal for the last 10 minutes. They had a lot of opportunities, but never got anything clean to look at.

“It makes Andon’s job a lot easier, and Andon’s playing out of his mind. He’s had four good games. He gave up four or five goals (each of) the first two games, but he still made probably 37 saves.”

Mulnix credited the team-wide chemistry for the cohesive offensive attack Whitehall was able to put forth. The Vikings returned almost their entire roster from a year ago.

“All of our goals are a team effort,” Mulnix said. “Every single time the ball comes from the defensive end to the forward. It’s not just our offense up there. Those great passes have to come from the midfield. Those great passes to the midfield have to come from the defense.”

Sports in Brief

Reeths-Puffer 2 Forest Hills Central 2 Nick Clemens and Kaden Vanderlaan each scored a game-tying goal as the Rockets remained undefeated on the young season.

Mona Shores 2 Whitehall 1

The Vikings lost a heartbreaker when Mona Shores’ Colin Rourke scored the game-winning goal with under 2 minutes to play. Mason Mulnix scored Whitehall’s lone goal, assisted by Carter Burrous.

Montague 1-1 at Kent City Tournament

The Wildcats won a thrilling shootout match over Hopkins to open their day after the two teams ended regulation tied 1-1. However, Montague couldn’t capitalize on the momentum and dropped a 3-1 game to Covert in their 2nd match of the day.

Montague 2 Shelby 1 Trevor Trevino scored both Montague goals in the WMC-opening win. The ‘Cats took advantage of a steal by Isaiah Towne to set up Trevino’s second goal, the game-winner.

Reeths-Puffer 2 Caledonia 0

The Rockets picked up 2nd-half goals from Owen Ritsema and Zac Sampson to score a big win in their O-K Green opener.

Reeths-Puffer 8 Mona Shores 0

The Rockets blasted their rival, and 6 different Rockets scored a goal in the win. Saif Abunayla led the way with 2 goals as R-P remained unbeaten at 4-0-1 (2-0 O-K Green).

Volleyball

Whitehall 1-1 at Allendale Tri Whitehall defeated Covenant Christian in a close match, 23-25, 25-22, 15-11, and lost to Allendale, 25-13, 25-19. Aaliyah Jamison had 28 digs and Bella Fogus added 24. Fogus also had 11 kills and six aces. Sidney Shepherd had 14 assists and three blocks.

Montague 3-1-2 at Newaygo Invite

The Wildcats were unbeaten until a close semifinal defeat to Sparta. Montague went 2-0-2 in pool play, including wins over Thornapple Kellogg and NorthPointe Christian, then beat Allendale in the Gold bracket quarterfinals. Maizie Collins had 26 kills and Ava Pumford added 25. Jordan Netcott had 65 digs to lead the Wildcat defense. Jaelyn Sundberg passed out 80 assists.

Montague 1-2 at W.M. Christian Quad Montague dropped matches to Zeeland East and Allendale before closing with a win over the host Warriors. Jordan Netcott had a big day defensively with 71 digs, and Maizie Collins had 18 kills for the offense. Jaelyn Sundberg passed out 32 assists.

Golf

R-P finishes 13th at Traverse City Invite

Against an impressive field of 25 teams, the Rockets held their own. Sophia McCollum led the team with a 93-78-171, finishing fourth in the field on day 2. She converted 3 straight birdies on holes 4-6 during the round. Rowan Bluhm added a 87-90-177.

Reeths-Puffer helps West win East/West Showdown

The Rockets scored 8th of the 12 competing teams in the inaugural event, which pitted 6 teams from the east side of Michigan against 6 from the west in a Ryder Cup-style format where each hole was worth a point. The West won, 328.5-319.5. Sophia McCollum led the Rockets with an 85, good for 8th place overall, and made 3 birdies on the day.

Soccer Tennis

Whitehall T-3rd at G.R. South Christian Quad Of Whitehall’s 8 points, 7 came from doubles flights. The #2 through #4 doubles teams - Jon Hall/Brady Tate, Myles Welch/Remington Whelpley and Elijah Roberge/Evan Thomas - each earned 2-1 records.

North Muskegon

Cross Country

Whitehall boys 6th “Under the Lights”

The Vikings started strong at South Christian, led by Stewart Waters in 6th place and Drew Boeringa running a PR of 17:17.6 to finish 19th. Cami Kraai paced the Viking

and Jack Yonkman (62nd).

Montague boys 6th at Benzie Central Freshman Nolan Kessler was the boys’ top finisher, coming in 31st place (18:12.1). Alix Draves took 38th. The Montague girls had 3 finishers, so they could not score as a team, but Grace Torsch had a strong run, coming in 23rd place with her 3rd-fastest time ever.

5 Reeths-Puffer 3

The Rockets won a pair of doubles matches, as #1 flight Cade Paugh/ Holden Earnest and #3 flight Preston Singleton/Jackson Baldus took 2-set wins. R-P won at #4 singles by forfeit.

Whitehall beats R-P by tiebreaker in home invite The Vikings and Rockets each scored a 373, but Whitehall’s better #5 score from Kelsie McClure, a 111, earned it the win. R-P’s Rowan Bluhm led local players with an 85, tying for 2nd place, and Grace McDowell paced the Vikings with an 87. Braylyn Bultema was Montague’s top scorer, shooting a personal-best 89.

Whitehall players Evan Schuitema (left) and Jon Hall line up return shots during a match against Spring Lake Wednesday. The Vikings dropped the match to the Lakers, 6-2. • Andy Roberts/Mirror

Whitehall’s Xavier LeBlanc pressures Jackson Edwards of North Muskegon during Monday’s game at Whitehall. • Andy Roberts/Mirror

Trevino, Montague dominate Hart

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

Montague took 10 minutes to get going in Wednesday night’s West Michigan Conference game against Hart, but once the Wildcats came alive, they dominated to pick up a 6-0 win. The Wildcats ripped off five goals in the final 30 minutes of the first half after being held scoreless prior to that.”We started slow and lacked focus and possession in the beginning, but after about 10 minutes, we really started to get into a good rhythm of multiple clean, completed passes that helped to open up the midfield and force Hart to start chasing the ball,” Montague coach

Twenty classmates from the Montague High School class of 1962 recently gathered at Lloyd’s Landing and the home of Bob and Jamie Lloyd for a potluck cookout and beach bonfire. The class of 1962 has held an annual reunion every year since the 50th reunion in 2012.

The class president, Bob Quinn, is instrumental in getting classmates reunited for this gathering. A pleasant evening was enjoyed by all, with talk of plans for next year’s reunion.

Brandon Mahoney said.

Once again Trevor Trevino was the lynchpin of the Montague offense, scoring four goals. He also had an assist in

the game. Michael Jones and Javari Aldridge also got on the board. Five different players, including Trevino, recorded an assist.

The Montague High School class of 1962 recently met up for its 62nd reunion at Lloyd’s Landing, and the home of Bob and Jamie Lloyd. Wildcats who attended included, from left, in front, Gene Stagner, Sally (Atchison) Sevey, Sharon (Kroll) McLouth and Tom Owczarski; second row, Bob Campsmith, Jerry Reed, Gary Hansen, Bob Lloyd, Susan (Leitch) McMahon, Tom Hill, Elaine (Lohman) Pilon, Alex Winter, Bill Chamberlain, Sharyl (Machovsky) Oliver, Ray Sallgren, Don Ingersoll, Bill Cook, Dick Smith, Richard Wadleigh and Bob Quinn (class president). • Courtesy Photo

Montague’s Jonah Henderson battles through contact from a pair of Hart defenders

• Brendan Samuels/Mirror

Football photos on Facebook

Thursday’s football games were played after the White Lake Mirror went to press. Check out our Facebook page for photos of the Whitehall vs. Unity Christian game and results of Montague and Reeths-Puffer’s season openers, and stay tuned for next week’s issue for full coverage!

Labor Day Community Walk again welcomes all

The White Lake Area Chamber & Visitors Bureau, along with the Cities of Montague and Whitehall, will host their 18th Annual Labor Day Community Walk Monday, Sept 2 at 10 a.m.

For more than 50 years, Michigan residents have gathered for the Mackinac Bridge Walk, but not all Michigan residents are able to travel as far as St. Ignace.

The Labor Day Community Walk will take place on the Hart–Montague Bike Trail and will begin at the Montague Trail Head, located at the east end of Spring Street, behind Whitehall Products and Montague Foods. City officials and area leaders will walk with the people of the community across

the White River Bridge to the Chamber of Commerce located at 124 W. Hanson in Whitehall. Walkers are welcome to continue the path or may turn around and return to the starting point. Healthy refreshments will be available at the Chamber Depot after the walk.

“We look forward to the Labor Day Community Walk each year,” said Stephanie Ware, Director of Events & Membership at the WLACVB. “This is a fun opportunity for our community to be a part of something bigger, that is, dozens of these walks happening in towns across our state, as well as a chance to get your walking shoes on and promote health and wellness.”

Bob Lloyd, Dick Smith and Bob Quinn show off their sprint medley relay school record, set in their senior year of 1962. The “Legacy Track and Field Records” include several events no longer contested at the MHSAA level.

• Courtesy Photo

Montague’s Noah Raeth (center) leaps into the air to play the ball during Wednesday’s WMC game against Hart. The Wildcats won, 6-0. • Brendan Samuels/Mirror

during Wednesday’s WMC game at Hart. The Wildcats won, 6-0.