The Oceana Echo - Volume 2, Issue 28, Dec. 6, 2024 by theoceanaecho

Shoreline horseback ride proves dreams do come true

By Paul Erickson

The Oceana Echo Community Correspondent

Splashing along the fresh waters of Lake Michigan with the beautiful dunes and expansive sky is a dream for many people.

Shoreline horseback riding at Silver Lake State Park (SLSP) in Mears, has now become a reality during the Michigan Shoreline Horseback Riding Season from Nov. 1-30 every year.

After experiencing shoreline horseback riding in Mexico, Michigan Trails Advisory Council (MTAC) Equestrian Representative and the SW MI Equine Trails Subcommittee (ETS) Representative Jenny Cook was inspired to bring similar opportunities to the Lake Michigan shoreline. After researching public lands with miles of shoreline, Cook approached the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (MDNR) and asked permission to

horseback ride the Lake Michigan shoreline at selected state parks. She communicated the desires of equestrians and explained the emotional, mental and physical benefits of horses for people. Cook also conveyed the positive economic impact horses and horse owners provide to communities.

She and her daughters, Jena Cook and Lynsey Cook, spoke with Michigan legislators at the Michigan Equine Legislative Day at the Michigan Capitol in Lansing, explaining prohorse information and the need for more horse-friendly areas in Michigan. Jenny offered horse rides to the MDNR for the Department to also experience shoreline horseback riding firsthand. Grace Adventures/Paradise Ranch provided horse rides for the MDNR, which they thoroughly enjoyed. The MDNR decided to explore possibilities with pilot rides. Back Country of Michigan, Grace Adventures/Paradise Ranch, Jenny Cook, Kristy Mosher and Michigan Horse Council hosted the pilot rides.

A team of volunteers was organized to welcome participants, guide horseback riders to the SLSP Lake Michigan shoreline, and pick up the manure. Hoping to further promote these opportunities, Jenny hired professional photographers to film and

photograph these “bucket list” rides for future promotions. She even enlisted the help of David Lorenz, former Vice President of the Michigan Economic Development Corporation/Pure Michigan, to promote these opportunities.

Shoreline horseback riding at the Silver Lake State Park is becoming a “must do” for many equestrians. Equestrians hauled their horses from Arizona, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Missouri, New York, Pennsylvania, Ohio, West Virginia, Wisconsin and more to Oceana County to experience the thrill of horseback riding the Lake Michigan shoreline and SLSP dunes. There were even some riders from France and Germany! Many riders saw eagles perched on the beach. Equestrians from a variety of disciplines including English, Western, Dressage, Polo and more all enjoyed these opportunities which helped to build and unite the equestrian

communities. Beautiful horses of various breeds, colors, patterns and sizes could be seen in every direction. Equestrians loved their rides and are eager for more visits. They enjoyed picture-perfect fall weather conditions with beautiful colors to start the month off, and a blanket of snow finished the Shoreline Horseback Riding Season.

Another important detail that makes these opportunities very special is the fresh waters of Lake Michigan. Fresh water provides a resource for horses to get a drink, be refreshed, and keep on running. The fresh waters of Lake Michigan make these shoreline horseback riding opportunities some of the best shoreline horseback riding opportunities in the world!

Horses along the Lake Michigan shoreline is not a new idea in Oceana County. Many of us have fond memories of the Old Trails Stables that offered these opportunities over 50 years

ago. Also, the SLSP dunes were logged by people with horses to help rebuild Chicago after The Great Chicago Fire in 1871. So, these opportunities provide both cultural and historical reflections.

In 2024, SLSP Manager Jody Johnston and his team took over full management of the Shoreline Horseback Riding Season, which created more employment opportunities.

These are bring-yourown-horse opportunities with MDNR reservations. Reservations are available on the MDNR website. Reservations for the November SLSP Shoreline Horseback Riding season open at 8 a.m. on Sept. 1 annually. Reservations are $10 per horse, and a State of Michigan Recreation Passport/vehicle is required. There are 125 horse reservations available per day from November 1-30 each year. Many days throughout November were sold out. Many riders anxiously watched the MDNR Reservation website for cancellations so they could make a reservation.

More Michigan Shoreline Horseback Riding information and beautiful pictures can be found on the Michigan Shoreline Horse Friends Facebook page and website at michiganshorelinehorsefriends. com.

Equestrians are creating more horse-friendly opportunities all over Michigan in both the Upper and Lower Peninsulas. Linear parks, trails, and state and federal lands are becoming more horse friendly. Please visit michiganhorsetrailsassociation.com to learn about the Michigan Horse Trails Association, which is “A united voice for Michigan horse trails,” for horse camping, events, rentals, trails, volunteer friends’ groups and more information.

Special thanks to Jenny Cook for her assistance with this article and the Shoreline Horseback ride at SLSP.

The Oceana County Fairgrounds were host to many riders. Stalls, water, bedding and camping were available. Some turned out their horses in the arena. Many equestrians rode on the grounds. Equestrians arrived in large trucks and horse trailers with living quarters. Some riders stayed in hotels, others reserved an Airbnb. Restaurants were busy, and many fueled up for the drive home. Over 2,500 equestrians and horses came to the SLSP dunes during the month of November. Many expressed how they loved the little town of Hart, the eateries, the Tin Man and the hospitality. Other riders stayed at Double JJ Resort where they were able to ride their trails through the Electric Forest.

• Contributed Photo by Camera Jesus

• Connie VanDerZanden/Echo

City of Hart moves forward with streetscape plan

By Sharon Hallack

The Oceana Echo Community Correspondent

HART - At its meeting Tuesday, Nov. 25, the Hart City Council authorized proceeding with an application for a Michigan Revitalization and Placemaking (RAP) grant which would be utilized to implement a much-anticipated refreshed streetscape for downtown Hart. Community and Economic Development Director Nichole Kleiner provided an overview of the grant and project prior to the approval.

According to City Manager Rob Splane, the Hart TIFA (Tax Increment Finance Authority) has been budgeting for a new streetscape for a number of years and has been working on plan renderings for over a year. Several public forums have been held to gather ideas from the community as well.

The focus of Michigan RAP grants is to prompt community gathering, downtown development and infrastructure repair. The hope is that a new streetscape would coincide with the eventual replacement of lead service lines running through downtown Hart, scheduled for 2026 or 2027.

Hart’s TIFA district boundaries include State Street from East/West Main to Polk Road and one block East and West

on either side, as well as what is known as the Polk Road corridor. A portion of the taxes from businesses in the TIFA district are captured each year and must be utilized within the TIFA district. The Hart TIFA board meets monthly and is led by Kleiner along with the following business owners: Chairperson Deborah Windell, Vice-Chair Gale Goldberg, Bill Hegg, Tracey Lipps, Treasurer Scott Hegg, Amy Trudell and Caleb Griffis.

The RAP grant, due at the end of January, would provide up to $1M in matching grant funds if awarded. Phase 1 of the streetscape project (engineering, bidding) would begin in the spring of 2025, followed by construction in the spring of 2026. If the grant were not awarded, construction would most likely begin in the spring of 2027.

Two discussion items were also on the agenda last Tuesday: a Draft Memo of Understanding (MOU) between the City of Hart and the Hart Area Public Library (HAPL), as well as a proposed updated John Gurney Parks Rules and Regulations document.

Splane related that the HAPL charter members and owners of the library include the city and Hart Township. Non-charter members include contracts with other neighboring entities, including the townships of Weare, Crystal, Elbridge and Golden (Golden Township’s contract is currently under negotiation). The main responsibilities outlined in the MOU Draft address lawn care, snow removal and waste management.

Since its beginnings, the city has spent enterprise funds (Hart Energy, Water, BioPure)

to keep the lawn mowed and the sidewalks shoveled/salted. Splane explained that doing so is not the best use of tax dollars. Utility customers should be paying utilities to receive utility services, not to have the library lawn mowed or sidewalks shoveled. He added, “The impetus isn’t to be petty; the impetus is to be more equitable. This is the third or fourth revision that the library board has seen.”

The draft states that any costs realized by the City of Hart and the HAPL will be split 50/50, unless discussed and agreed upon before the expense is incurred. In addition, the City of Hart will continue the use of its contract-negotiated solid waste dumpster, while the HAPL will seek its own waste management contract and discontinue use of the city’s dumpster.

Council was also updated on a proposed updated John Gurney Park Rules and Regulations document that will be on their Dec. 10 agenda for approval. Splane reminded council that one of the city’s goals with the creation of the Parks and Recreation position earlier this year was to do a better job of managing all city parks. The hope is that by upgrading the current park (during the winter) and its fee structure (approved earlier this year), the city would be

able to create more income to put toward all city parks and opportunities.

The two main changes to park policy will be mail delivery and the removal of permanent structures at the end of every season. The proposed rules and regulations state that in order to align with state statute regarding “Permanent Residence in Campgrounds,” no mail will be accepted at the campground address after Jan. 1, 2025. Campers requiring mail delivery will need to make other arrangements for mail delivery.

The second change will require more permanent structures, such as decks, outbuildings and fences, to be removed by Nov. 1 of each year. “We want to be able to do some landscaping, tree trimming and pour some more cement slabs. Having a ‘bare canvas,’ so to speak, will allow us to be much more efficient and way more productive in the off-season,” Splane said.

While there is some pushback from a few of the campground’s seasonal residents, the city’s goal is to create a park that the entire community can be proud of and that will draw more visitors to it. Individuals interested in reviewing either draft document should contact the city office.

This page is brought to you by:

114 Dryden St. in Hart, Mich. 49420 (231) 873-2600

By Caleb Jackson The Oceana Echo Community Columnist

The histories of our county, as well as newspapers from the time, all indicate that Oceana dedicated more than her fair share of men to the war effort during the Civil War days. To quote from Page’s History of Oceana, “This county was exceedingly liberal in men and means, considering it was but new and thinly settled with a class of hardy pioneers, who had all to make in the struggle for life, very few coming in with any means. They furnished more than their quota.” Page’s history also offers us a unique look into the time period by highlighting specific military companies and mentioning the roles some of our early pioneers played in the war efforts. Company A, 26th Michigan Infantry, for instance, was “almost wholly formed of Oceana men.” James Gibbs of Benona served as a sergeant and clerk of Company F, Fifth Michigan Cavalry. Company I, Sixth Michigan Company was raised in Pentwater, with the lawyer C. W. Deane serving as captain. Dr. Weare, namesake of Weare Township, served as a surgeon from the Sixth Cavalry, and one of the founders of Pentwater, E. R. Cobb, worked as a hospital steward in that same company. It is even mentioned that

about thirty Native Americans joined the Michigan Sharpshooters. By the time Page’s History was published in 1882, there were around 400 veterans in Oceana.

A summary of the Fifth Michigan Calvary can be found in Page’s History, provided by James Gibbs himself, the ex-sergeant of said company. It includes a list of names, where they were from, what roles they played and a list of the battles that the company participated in. Gibbs even named the one man to desert the company, Alfred C. Pope, who deserted in Detroit on Nov. 16, 1862. To give a brief summary, I will borrow from Gibb’s words, “It will be seen that out of an enlistment of 31 strong, healthy men, that 10 were lost, one transferred, one deserted, and 19 returned home in poor health, who are all alive at this date, Aug. 13 1882, just 20 years since our enlistment (except Peter Bentson, who was killed about 1879, in a sawmill, by having an arm torn off).”

While Gibbs’ summation of the Fifth Michigan Cavalry is very informative, I would like to turn our attention to a more personal account concerning someone who served in that company. Richard E. Cater was born in 1832 and came to Oceana in 1849. By the time he was 23 years old, he had acquired 110 acres in Claybanks. He enlisted in the Fifth

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

Michigan Cavalry under Capt. Noah H. Ferry on August 13, 1862. While he survived the war, he seemed to have had a particularly rough go. Mr. Cater was taken prisoner for the first time in June of 1963 by “Mosby’s gang” at Chantilly, Va., and remained a prisoner for 10 days. He was then paroled and sent to a parole camp in Camp Chase, Ohio. He returned to his regiment in the fall and later went with Colonel Dalgreen’s command to help General Kilpatrick’s raid on Richmond.

Cater, along with five other soldiers, offered to carry a dispatch from Dalgreen’s command to Kilpatrick, but they were attacked by a rebel battalion along the way. As Page puts it, “One man was wounded and two horses shot, and all were taken prisoners. They were then deprived of their overcoats, hats and boots, given some worn out hats and shoes instead and left out in a heavy rain-storm until 9 o’clock at night.” After this, they were delivered to a prison, where they laid on the floor through the night, “with heavy cold winds blowing through the open doors.” The next morning, they were “searched and robbed of all moneys and valuables and put on Belle Island.” For the next six weeks, Mr. Cater remained on Belle Island with no fire, no shelter, plagued by rheumatism and with only his worn-

out secondhand shoes to use as a pillow. Page’s history says, “He had now become perfectly helpless…” He was taken to a hospital in Richmond, and was eventually sent to Jarvis hospital in Baltimore as a part of a special exchange agreement organized by General Butler. When he was well enough to travel, Cater was sent home on furlough. He continued to be under medical treatment during his time at home, until July at which time he was ordered to report to Camp Chase in Ohio once again. It was here that he was examined and pronounced unfit for field service. He spent the remainder of his time in the service doing garrison duty at Camp Douglas, Ill.

Acme Float Builders, LLC brighten up Hart parade

by scanning the QR code at right or by

to Echo Publishing Inc.

• Sharon Hallack/Echo

The above group of friends, which include Stacy Baylis, Jamie Cutter, Judee and Rusty Fralic, Ron and Diane LaPorte and Janice Walsworth has created an entry for almost every Home for the Holidays lighted Christmas parade in Hart for nearly a decade.

• Diane VanDyke/Echo

Community Thanksgiving dinner brings smiles and stuffing to Shelby

• Diane VanDyke/Echo

Ongoing

MONDAYS: Free yoga, Lakeside Rehab Family Fitness, 5:30-6:30 p.m.

TUESDAYS: TOPS, Hart Wesleyan Church, 5 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.

WEDNESDAYS: Good News Club, Faith Christian Fellowship, Hart, 4-5:30 p.m.

1 st & 3 rd

WEDNESDAYS: Free community dinner, all are welcome, 5-6 p.m., Hart Wesleyan Church.

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

Every other WEDNESDAY: Shelby Optimist Club meetings, Stony Lake Inn, 7-8 p.m., (September to May)

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

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

1st FRIDAYS: Free Soup Supper, Ferry Community Center, 5-7 p.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.

1st Saturdays: Baby Pantry, Trinity Lutheran Church, 5631 W. Stony Lake Rd., 8:30-10 a.m. (note new date)

The Ladder Community Center:

M-F: The Ladder is open for adults (18+) 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

M-F: “The Huddle” for 6th-12th grade youth, 3-5 p.m. Tuesdays: Knitting Group, 10 a.m. to noon Saturdays: Celebrate worship gathering, 6:30 p.m.

2nd Saturday: Party Club for Kids ages 5-12, 1-2:30 p.m.

Complete schedule at: theladdercommunitycenter.com

Christmas in the Village set for Dec. 7, 14 and 21

Pentwater’s Christmas in the Village is back this year on three Saturdays throughout December. Each will include Christmas caroling with hot chocolate and a bonfire on top of the Village Green, discounts for patrons sporting Santa hats and/or ugly Christmas sweaters, and voting for favorite Christmas window with all donations going to the local food pantry.

The Reindeer Run will be Dec. 7 from noon to 4 p.m. In this poker run, collect cards at participating downtown businesses, and the best hand wins.

The Sock Hop is set for Dec. 14. Shoppers can purchase a stocking for $50 and receive a little something from each of the participating merchants. All funds raised will be given towards the Pentwater Public School track.

Pentwater Gives Back will be Dec. 21. From opening of business until 5 p.m, for every $25 spent at participating businesses shoppers will receive a ticket to place in one of three charity boxes on the Village Green. The charity with the most tickets will receive a donation of $500. Each ticket will enter the person into a drawing to win a quilt donated by Sew Let’s Be Quilty, gift certificates and items donated from the participating businesses on the Nice List.

Horse-drawn wagon rides will be offered starting at the Village Green from 1-4 p.m. on both Dec. 14 and Dec. 21. Please check out the Christmas in the Village Facebook page for more information and to see memories of past celebrations.

November

Dec. 2 - Dec. 18 - Spitler Elementary School “Polar Express Canned Food Drive”, 302 W. Johnson St., Hart.

Dec. 6 - Slate Building Ribbon Cutting, Hesperia, 2-3 p.m.

Dec. 6 - Tween Night, Hesperia Comm. Library, 3:15-4:45 p.m.

Dec. 6 - “Creole du Nord”, Hart Schools Auditorium, 7:30 p.m.

Dec. 7 - Pentwater Bands Holiday Craft Fair, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Dec. 7 - 22nd Annual Tiger Bazaar, SHS gym, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Dec. 7 - Christmas in the Country, Benona Twp. Hall, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Dec. 7 - Walkerville Christmas Parade & Visit with Santa, starting at school, ending at Pioneer House, 10 a.m.

Dec. 7 - Pentwater’s Christmas in the Village, Reindeer Run, noon to 4 p.m., additional holiday events all day, Village Green

Dec. 7 - A Holiday Evening in the Village, family storytime at the Shelby Area District Library at 4 p.m., Holiday Stroll from the library to Getty Park at 5:15 p.m., Annual Tree Lighting at Getty Park, 6 p.m., photos with Santa and a Holiday Movie, 6-7 p.m.

Dec. 8 - Goodfellows Auction/Bake Sale, Hightower Waterfront Bar & Grill, 5130 E. Loop Rd., Hesperia, 2 p.m.

Dec. 8 - Christmas by Candlelight, Pentwater UMC, 7 p.m.

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

Dec. 11 - Walkerville Boosters Gingerbread House-Making, 5:30 p.m.

Dec. 12 - Pet photos with Yeti, Hesperia Comm. Library, call to reserve a time, 5-7 p.m., Family Fun Night with Santa, 6-7 p.m.

Dec. 13 - Story Time, Hesperia Community Library, 10-11 a.m.

Dec. 13 - Fridays in the Forest hike, OCD, Shelby, 10:30-11:30 a.m.

Dec. 14 - TLC Cookie Walk, New Era, 9 a.m. to noon.

Countdown to Christmas events at The Ladder

The Ladder Community Center, located at 67 N. State St. in Shelby, is hosting several festive events for adults this December. Some events require sign-up (see below for more information). To sign up, call (231) 259-0211 or stop by The Ladder. Visit theladdercommunitycenter.com to view all upcoming events.

• Ornament Exchange: Tuesday, Dec. 10 at 10 a.m. Bring a wrapped ornament and enjoy this fun left-right game. Sign up by Dec. 9. No cost.

• Christmas Bingo: Thursday, Dec. 12 and Dec. 19. No sign-up needed. Cost: $1.

• Cookie Decorating: Friday, Dec. 13 at 10 a.m. Sign up by Dec. 6. Cost: donation.

• Live Christmas Music: Friday, Dec. 13 at 10 a.m. No sign-up needed. No cost.

• Christmas Games: Monday, Dec. 16 at 12:30 p.m. Sign up by Dec. 11. Cost: $5. Payment due at sign-up.

• CHRISTmas Luncheon: Friday, Dec. 20 at 11:30 a.m. This intergenerational event for adults and our 6th-12th grade youth will include a Christmas carol sing-along, live violin and piano music, devotional and a ham and turkey dinner. Limited seating available. Sign up by Dec. 11. Cost: $10. Payment due at sign-up.

• Worship—Christmas Hymns: Saturday, Dec. 21 at 6:30 p.m. Folks of all ages are invited to worship the Lord around the piano with Christmas-themed hymns, prayer and praise. Desserts will be served.

• Worship—Contemporary Christmas Music (Bilingual): Saturday, Dec. 21 at 6:30 p.m. Folks of all ages are invited to worship the Lord by candlelight with contemporary Christmas-themed songs, prayer, and praise. Light appetizers will be served.

OCCOA offers many December events for area seniors

The following are OCCOA events for December. All activities take place at the Oceana County Council on Aging, located at 4250 W. Tyler Rd. in Hart, unless stated otherwise. Please call 873-4461 to sign up or make meal reservations.

Breakfast is available Thursday mornings, 8:30–9 a.m. Cost: $3, reservations required.

Medicare/Medicaid Assistance Program - ALL APPOINTMENTS ARE FULL AT THIS TIME

Birthday Party: Wednesday, Dec. 4; noon.

SAIL: Monday and Wednesday, Dec. 9, 11, 16 and 23; 9 a.m.

Christmas Dinner: Wednesday and Thursday, Dec. 18 and 19; noon.

Drum Fitness: Tuesdays, Dec. 10, 17 and 24; 10 a.m.

Chair Volleyball: Fridays, Dec. 6 and 27; 10: a.m.

Zumba: Fridays, Dec. 6, 13, 20 and 27; 9 a.m.

Bingo: Thursdays, Dec. 5 and 12; 10:30 a.m.

Dec.12 is White Elephant Bingo

Podiatry: Fridays, Dec. 6; 1-4 p.m.

GR Christmas Market w/ Bradley: Wednesday, Dec. 11; 9 a.m.

Christmas Lights and Dinner Tour: Monday, Dec. 9; 6 p.m.

Bag Class with Mary: Friday, Dec. 13; 9 a.m.

Beltone: Wednesday, Dec. 18; by appointment

Caregiver Support Group: No Meeting in December Board Meeting: Tuesday, Dec. 10; 1:30 p.m., location: Oceana County Council on Aging.

Holiday Movie and Snack: Monday, Dec. 23; 1:30 p.m., location: Oceana County Council on Aging.

Art with Brad: Monday, Dec. 9 and 23; 10 a.m.

Make Pine Door Charm with Bradley: Tuesday, December 3; 10:00 a.m.

Build a Mini Gingerbread House: Tuesday, Dec. 10; 10 a.m.

Make a Holiday Centerpiece with Bradley: Tuesday, Dec. 17; 9 a.m.

OCCOA Center Closed: Christmas Day, Wednesday, Dec. 25 and New Year’s Day, Wednesday, Jan. 1

The center will close early in the afternoon on Christmas Eve Day Parmenter O’Toole Office Hours: Monday, Dec. 16; 2-4 p.m. Please call 873-4461 for an appointment.

Lauren Eisenbarth, an elder law paralegal for Attorney Anna Urick Duggins of Parmenter Law, will offer a half-hour, no-charge introductory meeting from 2-4 p.m. at Oceana County Council on Aging. Topics to

discuss include elder law services such as estate planning, long-term care planning, Medicaid planning and VA aid and attendance.

Other Activities:

Farkle: Mondays at 10 a.m.

Mexican Train: Mondays from 9-11 a.m.

Walk With Friends: Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at 1:30 p.m.

Mahjong: Tuesdays from 9-11 a.m. and 1-3 p.m.

Fitness at Hesperia American Legion: Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, 9–10 a.m.

Euchre: Wednesdays from 10–11:30 a.m. and 1-3 p.m.

Quilting: Wednesdays from 9 a.m. to noon.

Beltone Hearing Clinic: Fourth Wednesday of the month, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Call 231-843-3039 for an appointment.

Bingo: Thursdays at 10:30 a.m.

Blood Pressure Checks: Thursdays, 11 a.m. to noon.

Bridge: Thursdays from 1-3 p.m.

Cribbage: Fridays at 9:30 a.m.

Kaffeeklatsch: daily at 10 a.m.

Cards & Games: daily following lunch.

Community Foundation announces fall grant awards

This fall, the Oceana Community Foundation awarded $36,400 in grants to nine organizations, with most receiving full funding for their projects up to $5,000. While the foundation supports all types of community projects, most of these grants focus on projects in educational programs, outreach and community building and healthcare services.

“Twice a year, the types of applications the Community Foundation (receives are) a barometer for our area’s changing needs,” Foundation CEO Tammy Carey explained. “While our funding resources to meet all these needs are still limited, we are fortunate to have many donor partners that engage in our grantmaking activities. It really does take a village.”

The nine grants awarded include:

• $1,000 to the American Youth Foundation to relaunch the Michigan Middle School Leadership Institute, aiming to develop youth leaders by providing civil action tools and creating a network of peers.

• $3,000 to the Communities Overcoming Violent Encounters to expand their healing ser-

vices through trauma-informed yoga services for all survivors of intimate partner violence and sexual assault.

• $5,000 to Disability Network West Michigan to increase accessible recreational and life skill activities for youth with disabilities. Activities included but not limited to accessible fishing, teaching independent life skills such as cooking activities, and accessible sporting events.

• $2,400 to Girls Scouts of Michigan Shore to Shore to increase the level of Oceana County area Girl Scout participation by offering financial aid for girls to join the program and reduce barriers limiting participation.

• $5,000 to Mid Michigan Community Action Agency to provide one-on-one counseling and group education workshops with HUD-certified housing counselors.

• $5,000 to Migrant Legal Aid (MLA), Inc. in alignment with Oceana County’s priorities of Health & Human Services. MLA aims to impact the health and wellbeing of migrant workers and their families in Oceana County by investing in more education and prevention mea-

sures, strengthened by intentional community partnerships, including the Oceana Hispanic Center.

• $5,000 to the Read Muskegon to support a pilot program to train and support volunteer tutors who will provide 1-1 instruction to English Language Learners (ELL). This grant will also support community outreach to assess potential for expanded tutoring and class sites and strengthening relationships with local businesses to build and sustain funding to support ELL programs linked to workforce development.

• $5,000 to Shelby Public Schools to provide Shelby High School students with a safe, reliable, and functioning pottery kiln to better and grow their art program. Over the years, students have expressed interest in working with clay. A reliable kiln will allow students to create functional pieces of art and open opportunities for the art department to supplement the cost of a pottery program.

• $5,000 to Village of Walkerville to provide materials needed to beautify the exterior of Walkerville’s historic “Pioneer House Museum” (scraped,

Centenary UMC in Pentwater to host Advent activities

There are several ways to celebrate the Advent Season with Centenary United Methodist Church and friends in Pentwater. They are planning several special activities to prepare for the celebration of Christ’s birth.

The first is Christmas by Candlelight, which will be Sunday, Dec. 8, at 7 p.m. in the Cen

tenary UMC sanctuary, 82 S. Hancock St. in Pentwater. Welcome the Advent Season during a beautiful candlelight service featuring a variety of music from local musicians.

Next is Community Christmas Caroling on Wednesday, Dec. 18, at 4:30 p.m. Attendees can lift their spirits while singing their favorite Christmas carols with live musicians during Pentwater UMC’s Community Dinner. All are encouraged to bring their friends and family to be a part of this community-wide event and join the church for dinner.

A Christmas Eve Candlelight Service is planned for 7 p.m., Tuesday, Dec. 24, with snacks and a children’s movie, “The Crippled Lamb,” being shown beforehand from 5:45 to 6:30 p.m.

Lastly, a Festival of Lessons and Carols will be Sunday, Dec. 29, at 10:30 a.m. with readings and songs telling the story of Christmas.

Built in 1867, the Centenary United Methodist Church stands as the oldest church in Pentwater. For more information, please visit www.pentwaterumc.org.

primed, caulked and painted.)

Additionally, the foundation’s Youth Advisory Council (YAC) recently completed their annual teacher mini-grant project with 36 grants totaling $8,763 heading to Oceana schools! The funding will spark creativity and learning in the classroom, supporting teachers and allowing them to carry out projects and implement activities ranging from a Kindergarten library expansion to STEM activities and Robotics projects. Each year, YAC provides over $30,000 in grants to programs that impact youth issues. The Teacher MiniGrants help teachers bring new ideas to life and give students the tools they need to thrive. A heartfelt thank you to the donors who make this possible, including the Oceana Youth Fund, Gail Paulus Family Fund, Gary & Mary Ann Peterson “Grandpa & Grandma Pete” Memorial Fund, Mrs. Mullen’s Closet Fund and an anonymous contributor. The foundation’s donor advisors play a large part in the success of meeting our biannual community grant round requests. Partners for this round included the Bessie E & Ethan Allen Gray Health Fund, William R. Lathers Foundation Fund, Homeless Prevention Endowment Fund, Community Investment Fund, Oceana Youth Fund, and Little Point

Sable – Arts for Oceana County Fund. “We’re immensely grateful for the steadfast support we’ve received from our 63 donor-advised funds – totaling over $165,000 in the last three years alone! Their generosity has been instrumental in our mission’s success and underscores the profound difference we can make together,” noted Carey.

Oceana nonprofits, government agencies, schools, and community organizations are invited to apply in the foundation’s Spring 2025 Grant Round. The application will open on Jan. 31 with letters of intent due on Feb. 14 and full applications on Feb. 28. In mid-April, applicants will be notified of their applications’ outcomes.

For more information, potential applicants should reach out to the foundation’s Program Officer Hannah Naples at (231) 869-3377 or hannah@ oceanafoundation.org. More information on the upcoming Spring Competitive Grant Round is available at the foundation’s website.

For more information about making a gift, now or through an estate plan, creating a named fund at the foundation, or to learn more about foundation programs and activities, please call Tammy Carey at 231869-3377 or email at tammy@ oceanafoundation.org.

Donna Marie (Allen) Carrier

March

8, 1962 ~ December 1, 2024

Donna Marie (Allen) Carrier, 62, of Shelby, passed away peacefully Sunday, Dec. 1, 2024. She was born March 8, 1962, in Muskegon, the daughter of John and Mary (Martin) Allen.

Donna was a gifted artist with a unique ability to pick up something new and, within a very short period of time, master it. She enjoyed painting, both on canvas and on rocks (she was known as the Rock Lady at the annual Focus on Life Dinner because of the hundreds of dollars she raised selling rocks for Oceana County Right to Life), stamping, stained glass, crocheting, knitting and pencil drawing, to name a few. She was also a gifted pianist and violinist. In addition, she had a great love for animals and was known for bringing in strays. She has left three of those cats, Yo Yo, Doc and Buddy, to her husband. She also had a keen knack for calling in turkeys without a call.

Donna served honorably in the Army Reserve and then the Army National Guard as an Operating Room Technician from 1983-1988.

Donna is survived by: her husband, Wally Carrier; parents, John and Mary Allen; children, Lindsey (Tommy) Lawrence and Danica (John) McMillan; grandchildren, Tucker Lawrence and Gavin Lawrence; sisters, Laura Allen and Teresa Allen; brother John Christopher Allen; nephew John Allen; brother-in-law, Gregory (Wendy) Carrier; sisters-in-law, Kim (Claude) Haynes, Sheila (Rodney) Fraley, and Lisa (Kevin) Patterson; and a special aunt, Nancy Sobish.

Donna was preceded in death by: her grandparents, Francis and Cecilia Martin, Roxie and Charles Allen; her in-laws, Walt and Barb Carrier.

Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11 a.m., Tuesday, Dec. 10, 2024, at St. Gregory’s Catholic Church, 316 S. Peach Avenue, Hart, Mich., 49420. Visitation will be held from 5:30-7:30 p.m., Monday, Dec. 9, 2024, at St. Gregory’s Catholic Church, with a praying of the rosary at 7 p.m. An additional visitation will be held from 10 a.m. until the start of services on Tuesday, Dec. 10, 2024, at St. Gregory’s Catholic Church. A luncheon will be provided after the services. Interment with Military Honors will be in St. Mary’s Cemetery, 1915 Park St., Muskegon, Mich. 49441.

Please consider memorial contributions to St. Gregory’s/Our Lady of Fatima Building Fund.

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

Victor Lyle Villadsen

March 12, 1949 ~ November 26, 2024

Victor Lyle Villadsen, 75, of West Olive, passed away Tuesday, Nov. 26, 2024. He was born March 12, 1949, in Hart, the son of Lyle and Lottie (Young) Villadsen.

Victor was an avid outdoorsman and loved hunting, fishing and trapping. Victor retired from Zelenka Nursery in 2018, where he loved the outdoors and took pride in his nursery work. His knowledge of plants and trees was remarkable. He had a green thumb for anything that would grow. He loved his grandkids and great-grandkids with all his heart.

Victor is survived by: his children, Amy (Chad) Conkle and Erik Villadsen; grandchildren, Wyatt (Jayde) Conkle and Cole (May) Conkle; great-grandchildren, Maverick, Avery, OakLynn and Ellie; and brother Kevin (Penny) Villadsen. Victor was preceded in death by: his parents, Lyle and Lottie; sisters, Marcia Murphy and Sharon (Tim) Payne.

Per Victor’s wishes, cremation has taken place, and no services will be held at this time.

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

PUBLIC NOTICE

Weare Township

The Weare Township Planning Commission will meet at 7:00 PM on Dec. 17, 2024, at the Weare Township Hall

To discuss the Rezoning of Parcel #64-002-020-400-18 which is currently zoned LDR (Low Density Residential) to NC (Neighborhood Commercial).

Park N Store

On property ID # 64-002-020-400-18

3480 W Monroe Rd Hart, Michigan 49420

- Andrew J Clark, Zoning Administrator

Barbara Ann Burmeister

June 20, 1934 ~ November 30, 2024

Barbara Ann Burmeister, 90, passed away peacefully in her sleep on Nov. 30, 2024. She was born on June 20, 1934, just north of Stony Lake, in a large farmhouse on Scenic Drive in Benona, to the late Thurlow W. and Anna (Grantz) Schmieding.

Barb later moved with her family to Muskegon, where she graduated from Muskegon High School in 1952. It was there that she met a young man at the drive-in named Bill Burmeister. Their connection was instant, and they soon fell in love. Barb and Bill married on Feb. 27, 1954, and together they raised four children.

Barb was a dedicated homemaker, supporting Bill and their children with unwavering love and devotion. She not only kept the family in line but also took great pride in her role as the bookkeeper of the family farm. Together, Barb and Bill built a thriving farm that employed family, friends and neighbors throughout the years. Her deep commitment to both her family and the farm was the foundation of what is now a centennial farm—a true testament to the legacy Barb and Bill created.

Barb’s warmth and great sense of humor allowed her to get along with everyone she met. She enjoyed bowling, golfing, sharing lunches with her Red Hatters group, and supporting agricultural events. Through it all, Barb’s love for her family, her farm, and her community shone brightly.

Barb is survived by: her husband, Bill Burmeister; children, Bart (Debbie) Burmeister, Babs Burmeister, Joe (Malena) Burmeister and Russ (Cindra Curtis) Burmeister; nephew, Paul Schmieding; grandchildren, Terrah (Kevin) Schmieding, Cam and Colton (Taylor Margraves) Burmeister, and Kristen Burmeister; great-grandchildren, Gabby, Trent, and Jayda Schmieding, and Granger Burmeister.

Barb was preceded in death by: Thurlow W. and Anna (Grantz) Schmieding; sister, Virginia Cooper; brother, Thurlow P. Schmieding; and niece, Patty Schmieding.

Funeral services will be held at noon, Saturday, Dec. 7, 2024, at Harris Funeral Home, 267 N. Michigan Ave., Shelby, MI 49455. A visitation will be held one hour prior to services at the funeral home, with a luncheon immediately following.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Harbor Hospice, interland3.donorperfect.net, or by a mail-in envelope provided by the funeral home at the time of services.

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

By Lucie Winborne

• On Dec. 9, 1990, Lech Walesa, founder of the Solidarity trade union, won a landslide election victory, becoming the first directly elected Polish leader.

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• On Dec. 10, 1690, a failed attack on Quebec and subsequent near-mutiny forced the Massachusetts Bay Colony to issue the first paper currency in the Western Hemisphere’s history. It was initially unpopular for anything except paying taxes and was phased out, but reappeared in Massachusetts just a few years later.

FOR RELEASE NOV. 25, 2024

By Lucie Winborne

• On Dec. 11, 1946, the General Assembly of the United Nations voted to establish the United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF), an organization designed to help provide relief and support to children living in countries that had been devastated by World War II.

• On Dec. 12, 1970, “Tears of a Clown,” penned by William “Smokey” Robinson, became the first No. 1 hit for Robinson and his band the Miracles after more than a decade of hits that had failed to reach that coveted position. Bob Dylan would later call Robinson America’s “greatest living poet” in recognition of his skill as a composer and lyricist.

• On Dec. 13, 2000, seven convicts (the “Texas Seven”) overpowered civilian employees and prison guards in the maintenance shop where they worked at a maximum-security prison in South Texas and made off with clothing, guns and a pickup truck, triggering a six-week manhunt. The men left a note saying, “You haven’t heard the last of us yet,” which proved true the following year when six of them were recaptured (one committed suicide).

• On Dec. 14, 1982, actor Woody Harrelson’s father, Charles Harrelson, was convicted of murdering Judge John Wood outside his home in San Antonio, Texas, as he bent down to look at a flat tire on his car. Wood was the first federal judge assassinated in the 20th century, and the FBI’s threeyear investigation into his murder was one of the most extensive since John F. Kennedy’s assassination.

• On Dec. 15, 1974, the Oakland A’s Jim “Catfish” Hunter was ruled a free agent by arbitrator Peter Seitz, becoming the first free agent in modern baseball history, after the team’s owner, Charles O. Finley, failed to live up to the terms of his star pitcher’s contract.

• “Digital picture books are very easy to make these days, and they make great gifts. But here’s a way we use our digital photos to keep the kids engaged at our family gatherings. Each family prints out a selection of photos. We let the kids make their own books using half sheets of paper, glue and markers. They design frames, etc. After they have several pages done, we tie them together and make a cover of heavy card-stock. It’s a great takehome craft, a special souvenir for visitors, and it gets them talking about family moments.” — R.E. in Alabama

• Want to mix it up a bit with your traditional chocolate chip cookies? Try rolling them in different types of chopped nuts or sprinkles. Even crushed pretzels are really good. Or change the flavor of the chip. Add minced dried fruit, quick oats or other seeds for a change of taste. Melt chocolate chips and dip one side in it, then let dry on waxed paper. Endless possibilities!

• At a loss of what to do with Christmas cards from years past? Why not try making a wreath? Cut out a large ring from a cardboard box or other sturdy material. Arrange cards at different angles around the circle. Add holiday picks and ribbon or a bow for depth.

• Having a holiday party? Put foods and drinks in separate areas, as these are places that guests tend to linger. With different stops for each, guests will not bunch up in one place trying to do both, and it actually encourages mingling!

• Looking for a great cause for gifting this year? Go to www.charitynavigator .org to find out more about how your prospective charities rank in areas like CEO pay, money spent on fundraising, etc.

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

• As part of David Hasselhoff’s divorce settlement, he kept possession of the nickname “Hoff” and the catchphrase “Don’t Hassle the Hoff.”

• The fuller your refrigerator, the more energy-efficient it is.

• Dr. Seuss coined the word “nerd.” The term originated in the 1950 book “If I Ran the Zoo.” The sentence goes: “And then, just to show them, I’ll sail to Ka-Troo. And bring back an IT-KUTCH, a PREEP and a PROO, a NERKLE, NERD, and a SEERSUCKER, too!”

• Nobel Prize winner Niels Bohr was given a perpetual supply of beer piped into his house.

• Between 1848 and 1850, the population of San Francisco grew from 900 to 35,000 people thanks to the Gold Rush.

• During his World War II service, LBJ was due to fly in the observation seat of the B-26 bomber Wabash Cannonball. However, he was replaced when he had to go to the toilet before takeoff. The Wabash Cannonball was shot down during that flight over New Guinea with no survivors.

• A Chinese millionaire sold canned air to people on the streets to raise awareness of air pollution and then donated the money to charity.

• Newborn babies can only see in black and white for a few months.

• Seventy percent of the dirt on your clothes is invisible.

• In “The Empire Strikes Back,” an extra can be seen running with what appears to be an ice cream maker. The character became legendary among fans, and was eventually given a name (Willrow Hood) and a backstory.

• Some scientists believe that dogs can tell when you’re coming home by how much of your scent is left in the house.

Tails of Hope

Are you looking for a furry friend who will bring endless joy and laughter into your life? Look no further!

Dax is a 2-year-old shepherd mix with a heart full of love and a tail that never stops wagging. This charming pup has a knack for making everyone around him smile with his goofy antics and boundless energy. Imagine waking up to a wagging tail and a wet nose nudge.

Dax is an early riser, ready to start the day with a burst of energy. After a good morning stretch, he’s ready for his favorite game of fetch. Don’t worry; he’ll give you a break every now and then to catch your breath (and maybe have a snack).

Afternoons are for exploring. Whether it’s a trip to the dog park or a leisurely walk around the neighborhood, Dax is always up for an adventure. He’s curious about everything and loves to sniff out new scents and meet new friends along the way.

Evenings are reserved for cuddles. After a day full of fun, Dax loves nothing more than to curl up next to you on the couch. His sweet, loyal nature will make your heart melt as he lays his head in your lap, ready for some well-deserved belly rubs.

Dax 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

WSCC Community English course showcases “Humans of Hart” project

West Shore Community College, in partnership with the Oceana Hispanic Center, is proud to announce the culmination of its Fall Community English course with the “Humans of Hart” final project. This innovative initiative helps non-native English speakers enhance their comprehension and expression skills while connecting with their local community.

Inspired by the globally recognized Humans of New York project, the course encourages students to explore themes of connection and community. The Humans of Hart project highlights the stories of the students and individuals living in the Hart area. By sharing these narratives, students practice their English skills while building bridges within the community.

The project will culminate in a series of poster-style presentations at the William M. Anderson library during finals week. Each student will deliver a 10-minute talk, share their experiences conducting the Humans of Hart project, and discuss the strategies they used to advance their English. The presentations will conclude with a Q&A session, inviting audience

engagement.

Presentation Schedule:

• Monday, Dec. 9, from 8–9:20 a.m.

• Tuesday, Dec. 10, from 9:30–10:50 a.m.

• Wednesday, Dec. 11, from 8–9:20 a.m.

• Thursday, Dec. 12, from 9:30–10:50 a.m.

At least three enrolled English Language Learners (ELL) students will present during each session. Community members, students, faculty and staff are invited to attend and support these inspiring individuals as they share their stories and progress.

“The Humans of Hart project aligns wonderfully with our commitment to overcoming barriers and fostering connections,” stated Darby Johnsen, dean of arts and sciences. “This initiative not only enhances English language skills but also celebrates the rich diversity and experiences of our growing Hispanic community.”

For more information about the Community English course or the Humans of Hart project, contact Associate Professor of English Paula Rolim at prolim@ westshore.edu.

Pentwater Arts Council promotes arts in Oceana schools with teacher grants

Established in 2022, the Oceana County Teacher Grant program, sponsored by the Pentwater Arts Council, is in its third year of awarding grant money to teachers involved in providing art, music and drama education to Oceana students. To date the Oceana Teacher Grant Program has awarded over $9,000 to Oceana Schools Art, Music and Drama departments for student enrichment and curriculum expansion.

It is with great pleasure that the council announces the 2024

Oceana County Teacher Grant Awardees, the Oceana Schools and Departments they represent:

• Kris Slotegraaf, Hart High School Art Department

• Gustavo Morales, Shelby High School Music/Band Department

• Phil DeBrot, Hart High School Drama Department

• Anna Loney, Hart Middle School Art Department

• Carrie Jeruzal, Pentwater High School Art Department

• Jesse Rodriguez, Pentwater High School Music Department

The mission of the Pentwater Arts Council is to support the arts, including but not limited to visual, theater, music and performing arts, and to advance arts education within Pentwater, Mich. as well as Oceana County, Michigan. Information on the Oceana Teacher Grant program, 2025 Spring Oceana Student Art Exhibit, current Sculpture Walk sculpture locations and Pentwater Arts Council membership and donations can be found on the website: www.pentwaterartscouncil.org.

Village of Shelby welcomes new councilors, launches YouTube channel

By Sharon Hallack

The Oceana Echo Community Correspondent

SHELBY - The Shelby Village Council welcomed new council members, Samantha Gottschalk and Crystal Heykoop, at its meeting Monday, Nov. 24. Terms for councilor Damien Omness and Village President Paul Inglis ended with the Nov. 5 election. New Village President John Sutton named chairs and vice-chairs to the following committees: FinanceSteve Crothers and Mike Termer; Ordinances - Crystal Heykoop and Dan Zaverl; Parks and Recreation - Samantha Gottschalk and Steve Crothers; Personnel - Mike Termer and Samantha Gottschalk; Streets and Sidewalks - Dan Zaverl and Curt Trott and Water and Sewer - Curt Trott and Crystal Heykoop. The Village President Pro-Tem appointment went to Steve Crothers.

Village Administrator Phil Morse also announced the village has recently launched its own YouTube channel. Staff will create and post short videos to

communicate with and educate the Shelby community. Residents are encouraged to visit http://www. youtube.com/@villageofshelby218 and subscribe to receive the latest videos.

Economic development agencies seeking bids for state’s $75M Revitalization and Placemaking program

Regional economic development organizations The Right Place, Inc., Lakeshore Advantage and Greater Muskegon Economic Development Corporation are seeking public-placemaking projects to include in a regional grant application for the Revitalization and Placemaking (RAP) program.

Launched in 2022 by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC), the RAP program has $75 million in funds available to support gap financing for place-based infrastructure development, real estate rehabilitation and development, and public space improvements throughout the state. The West Michigan partner agencies are seeking applications from all 13 counties in Michigan’s Prosperity Region 4 area (Allegan, Barry, Ionia, Kent, Lake, Mason, Mecosta, Montcalm, Muskegon, Newaygo, Oceana, Osceola and Ottawa).

The group’s regional application will focus on public space and place-based infrastructure. Grants of up to $500,000 for projects are possible under this program and require a minimum 50 percent match from each sub-applicant.

Examples of projects that can be submitted for consideration include, but are not limited to, downtown pocket parks, waterfront activation sites, innovative spaces for pop-up markets, and public art installations.

An online project submission form is live until December 6, 2024, at 5 pm. View the MEDC’s project eligibility requirements and considerations at rightplace.org.

“Being awarded two successful rounds of funding, we’ve been able to provide support for over 20 public placemaking projects throughout West Michigan. Projects like these contribute significantly to our region’s quality of life, and we’re excited to lead another regional application for RAP,” The Right Place, Inc.Senior Vice President of Community Development Tim Mroz said.

HELP WANTED

Cleaning Person for Weare Township Hall. Two hours weekly at $30 an hour. The first week will possibly be up to 8 hours. Duties include: floors, bathroom, dusting, sanitizing and general housekeeping.

Those interested, please send resume to: Weare Township Attention: Melanie Sayles 6506 N Oceana Drive Hart, MI. 49420

SPORTS

Pentwater boys down Hesperia in cross-conference battle

By: Brendan Samuels

The Oceana Echo Sports Editor

PENTWATER – Pentwater’s boys basketball team ditched Black Friday deals Friday, Nov. 29, opting for a dominant 66-35 win over Hesperia instead.

The Falcons were shorthanded heading into their matchup with the Panthers, playing without a few rotational players due to injury. Starting senior guard Will Werkema-Grondsma was also missing, having left town for Thanksgiving celebra-

tions. That left Pentwater Head Coach Ashley Lubera with just seven players to work with in the team’s season opener.

“We have a couple guys injured right now that we need to get back on the roster,” Lubera said. “There was also one gone for family reasons, but that’s OK. I mean, when you play the day after Thanksgiving that can happen.”

Down a few players, the Falcons flashed their talent early. Pentwater scored 11 straight points to start the game, riding senior forward Mikey Carlson for seven of those. Trey Johnson also

Burmeister,

By: Andy Roberts

The Oceana Echo Community Correspondent

WHITEHALL — For years, the young players that now make up much of Shelby’s roster have been able to overwhelm opponents with athleticism and length. While the competition level changed Monday in the Tigers’ varsity opener, the results didn’t.

Shelby swarmed Whitehall with its press, and the Tigers generated a ton of turnovers and easy baskets, romping to a 53-17 victory.

The standout was freshman Jayna Burmeister, who had a game-high 21 points, as well as eight rebounds and eight steals. Five freshmen dot the varsity roster in all, and their experience playing successfully together over the years means they’re not your typical freshmen.

“All five of them play travel (basketball),” Shelby coach Sarah Wolting said. “They’ve played a lot, and they’ve

Pirates dominate rival Shelby on the road

By: Brendan Samuels The Oceana Echo Sports Editor

got involved, scoring eight in the first quarter to push the Falcons out to a 20-9 lead early on.

Hesperia struggled to find a consistent attack offensively, costing themselves multiple possessions on turnovers. Pentwater was all too happy to capitalize on those, driving towards the hoop on transition opportunities.

“We looked like we were half asleep,” Hesperia Head Coach Scott Warsaw said. “I give (Pentwater) all the credit. They wanted to play tonight and apparently

Pentwater

continued on page 11

played a lot together too. We’ve scrimmaged. I know what they can do. I’ve seen them the whole time. They’re way more athletic than a lot of kids. I have five that I can bring up and do different things, and it’s awesome.”

After Whitehall hit a three-pointer to tie the game 5-5 early on, Shelby went into shutdown mode, ripping off the next 21 points. Many of those came on transition opportunities created by the press, though Burmeister also hit three three-pointers on the night. From there, the Tigers continued to stress the Whitehall ballhandlers, building the lead with more easy takeaways.

Burmeister’s length and speed makes her an ideal centerpiece of a press defense, and it enables Wolting to do a lot of different things with the other players on the defensive end, keeping opponents off balance.

“She moves so well and jumps so well, I can, on the

SHELBY – A suspected heated rivalry game between Hart and Shelby boys basketball turned out to be extremely one sided. The Pirates took control of Shelby on the road, claiming a 66-29 victory Tuesday, Dec. 3. Hart didn’t waste any time getting going, taking the opening tip and forcing an early foul to get their first points at the line. From that point on, Hart simply showed more effort than the homestanding Tigers. Rebounds rarely landed with Shelby, mostly due to poor attempts at boxing out Hart’s athletes. The Pirates out rebounded Shelby 39-27 in all.

“It’s a rivalry game and our guys were hungry,” Hart head coach Nick Bronsema said. “We try to give great effort every chance we can. We know we can’t control whether or not threes, free throws or layups go in, but we can control how much effort we give.”

play, say, ‘Go get this,’ or ‘Look for this,’” Wolting said. “They’ve played so much that they know the game a little bit better, maybe, than some girls I’ve had in the past. They can get to stuff. They’re just so athletic. They read the ball well.”

Among other area coaches and players, Burmeister’s pedigree was surely wellknown. For fans who aren’t privy to scrimmages and practices, her outburst in her first varsity game was a statement of what to expect going forward. Wolting noted that knowing Burmeister the way she does, the freshman was likely less impressed with her performance than she was irked by a few close shots she did not convert.

Fellow freshman Michelle Peterson added 10 points, and another freshman, Ava Lamberg, pulled down six rebounds. The team racked up 21 steals in all.

Extra opportunities were important for Hart, but it was their defense that truly won the night. The Pirates spent a majority of the night in man to man defense, using a full court press to force Shelby into costly turnovers.

Hart junior Miguel Escamilla was on fire from the start, scoring six points in the first quarter. Fellow junior Caleb Ackley matched that scoring output, leading to a lopsided 25-6 lead after eight minutes.

“As a junior, it’s (Escamilla’s) third year on varsity. He and Caleb (Ackley) are both third year juniors,” Bronsema said. “I’ve noticed a look in his eyes at practices that I’ve never seen before. You can see it when I try to sub him out – he doesn’t want to come out.”

The second quarter was more of the same.

Hart nearly doubled their scoring from the first quarter. Escamilla and Ackley continued to lead the way, but the Pirates had nine players in the scoring column by the time halftime arrived.

Shelby’s sparse offensive output in the first half (eight points) was led by senior Nathan Miller who had four points. The Tigers showed a severe case of early season rust, something head coach Rick Zoulek attributed to a lack of focus and game experience.

“Our guys just didn’t react to the raised intensity. That’s got to come from game experience,” Zoulek said. “The more we play, then they’ll

continued on page 11

Rivalry

Hart’s Kaden Bond splits a pair of Shelby defenders near the paint. • Brendan Samuels/ECHO

Pentwater senior Mikey Carlson puts up a shot over top of the Hesperia defense. Carlson led the Falcons with 22 points. • Brendan Samuels/ECHO

(Above, top) Shelby freshman Jayna Burmeister orchestrates the Tiger offense. (Above, bottom) Shelby’s Michelle Peterson attempts a layup down low with Whitehall defenders close.• Andy Roberts/ECHO

Peterson power Shelby past Whitehall

get used to doing some of that stuff. A lot of it is, we were hurrying when we shouldn’t but then didn’t hurry when we should have.”

The Tigers showed a lot more fight in the third quarter, matching Hart bucket for bucket. That resulted in a 12-11 scoring advantage for Shelby in that frame.

That led directly into the fourth and final quarter, despite trailing 5820. Junior guard Eli Kelley scored five straight points to start the fourth. The Tigers once again outscored their opponent, notching nine points to Hart’s eight. That wasn’t enough to dig out of a nearly 40-point deficit though, putting Shelby into the loss column in

Rivalry Pentwater Shelby Girls

we did not. We were sloppy with the ball and sloppy on defense.”

There wasn’t much scoring in the game’s second frame, but Pentwater did enough to distance themselves. The Falcons owned a 32-14 advantage at halftime.

Jared Tanner and Ian Fox tried to lift Hesperia back into contention in the third quarter. The Panther duo combined for 11 points in that frame, but were unable to match a scoring onslaught brought on by Pentwater’s senior class.

“It was height and strength versus each other tonight. We both fed our posts the best we could and tried to find our advantages. I just think we have a little more guard ability,” Lubera said. “We were able to go inside out and my bigs did their best against (Hesperia’s) quality bigs. (Tanner and Ethan O’Neil) are solid post players,

continued from page 10

their season opener.

Hart moved to 2-0 with the win, getting 13 points from Escamilla and 12 from Ackley. Four Hart athletes recorded seven points with Jagger Lenon, Brendan Hiddema, Kaden Bond and Ty Schlukebir adding to the scoring.

Shelby was led by Kelley with nine points while Miller put up six of his own. Griffin Olmstead had five points and five rebounds.

The Pirates will be back in action tonight (Friday, Dec. 6) as they travel to Wyoming to take on Kelloggsville. Shelby will also play tonight, hitting the road to take on White Cloud.

continued from page 10 continued

and they scored well. We just had to be able to outbalance their inside game.”

Carlson scored an additional eight points in the third quarter, pairing with senior point guard Jonny Arnouts who matched that same output.

With a 52-27 lead after three quarters, Pentwater had enough of a lead to take their foot off the gas a bit. Hesperia responded by going on an 8-2 scoring run, but the Falcons put a bow on their win with late points from Arnouts and Kaleb Brown.

Carlson led the Falcons with a double-double, scoring 22 points and adding 12 rebounds. Arnouts added 15 points, nine rebounds and four assists, while Johnson had 11 points, five rebounds and four steals.

For Hesperia, O’Neil had a teamhigh 13 points while Tanner added eight points and eight rebounds.

ALL-CONFERENCE ACCOLADES PT. 2

The Tigers’ success on the press, at least early on, is likely to make or break the results of their games. Wolting said their half-court offense is not yet polished, which isn’t surprising given the youth of the team.

“That’s one thing that we’re going to have to work on in the next few weeks, especially,” Wolting said. “We live and die by the press just because that’s what they’ve always done, because they’ve been so much more athletic than other teams. But we’ve got to get better in the half-court.”

Still, the coach noted that the frenetic pace the young Tigers seem to

prefer, while it might be stressful, also might prove to be fun to watch.

“We don’t have a lot of experience,” Wolting said. “We play a lot of helter-skelter, and that kind of drives me crazy at times, but a lot of times they get the job done with it. I think I’ve got to sit back and kind of let them play their game a little bit this year.

“It’s going to be a fun year because I do have different threats in different places, and that’s one thing that I’ve been stressing to the girls. If everyone does what they do (well), we’re going to be pretty tough.”

Hart girls shake off early season jitters

By: Brendan Samuels The Oceana Echo Sports Editor

HART – A bit of rust was evident for Hart’s girls basketball team in their season opener Monday, Dec. 2, but it didn’t take long for the Pirates to take control.

A 44-32 home win over Grant was the result.

Grant won 15 games in 2023 and with a returning crew of seven seniors, the Tigers figured to be a tough non-conference test for Hart and head coach Travis Rosema.

Both teams struggled to find a flow in the first quarter. Grant deployed an evident defensive strategy, packing the paint to force Hart to live on the perimeter. The Pirates still found their way down low, but several missed layups kept the score close.

“(Cleaning up our mistakes) will come naturally, this is just the first game jitters,” Rosema said. “Grant was second in their league last year, so hard earned wins are still good wins. I think later down the road our shooters will start making more shots.”

Senior guard Addi Hovey and sophomore guard Rilynn Porter hit a trio of big three point shots that pushed Hart in front. The Pirates led

Grant 9-6 after the first eight minutes of play.

“There’s a lot of things to clean up, but I think we did a really good job pushing the ball up the court,” Hovey said. “Sometimes the transitions turned into turnovers. While we did a lot of good things, there’s plenty to clean up.”

The second quarter saw Hart heat up as Hovey scored two quick buckets out of the gate. Sophomore Reese Smith and seniors Kelsey Copenhaver and Breslyn Porter got involved as well. Grant’s offense completely stalled out, mostly due to three empty trips to the free throw line. That helped the Pirates add to their lead, owning a 22-6 advantage at halftime.

Grant added several deep shots in the third quarter in an effort to get back into contention, but Hart respond-

ed enough to keep the Tigers at a distance.

Leading 30-16 heading into the fourth, Hovey provided one final spark to propel the Pirates to a 1-0 start to the year. Hovey scored 12 of her team-high 19 points in the final quarter as her teammates picked apart Grant’s zone defense.

Hovey had a double-double, adding 15 rebounds and seven steals to her 19 point scoring performance. Rilynn Porter followed with 10 points and three assists while Copenhaver had four points, seven rebounds and four steals.

Hart will get some weekend action as they head to Aquinas College in Grand Rapids Saturday, Dec. 7 to face Grand Rapids NorthPointe Christian. The Pirates will open conference play Tuesday, Dec. 10 against rival Shelby.

Hart senior Kelsey Copenhaver fades backwards as she releases a shot in the face of a Grant defender. • Brendan Samuels/ECHO

Hart senior Addi Hovey chucks a pass to a teammate down low. • Brendan Samuels/ECHO

Reflections

Reflections of our community

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Isabelle Musk pursuing her dreams

Whitehall grad to compete for Miss america’s Teen title beginning Dec. 31

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

WHITEHALL — Whitehall High School grad Isabelle Musk is Miss Michigan’s Teen now in large part because, while nervously awaiting her on-stage question at the state show in June at the Frauenthal Performing Arts Center in Muskegon, she remembered the kids she’s taught dance to for years.

“I was delegate number 15, so I had to wait a little bit, and I’m sitting there waiting, sweating, and there was part of me that was just like, ‘Why do I do this again? This is nerve-wracking,’” Musk said with a smile. “I went out there and I trusted those instincts. All I thought about were those girls. After starting teaching in 2019, I have grown super close with them and they’re my pride and joy. I’m able to teach and mentor them and I feel like a big sister to them. They’re just lovely, and they’re my purpose. They’re why I do what I do, and I couldn’t do it without them.”

Musk won that title, and because of it she’ll be ringing in the year 2025 in Orlando, participating in the Miss America’s Teen competition from Dec. 31-Jan. 5.

While in Whitehall, Musk was a private and assistant dance instructor at Releve Dance Studio, and her mom Angela said she convinced the school’s boosters to contribute $1,000 annually to help children who needed help paying for classes. Musk’s effect on the kids she has taught is obvious; at a Nov. 23 send-off party for her at Releve, she was constantly being approached by young children she knows from the studio.

For many who participate in the Miss America’s Teen program, it starts early - it’s open to girls ages 13-18. Musk, though, had never competed in an event until February 2023, when

she participated in the Miss Shoreline’s Teen show during her junior year at Whitehall. Looking for ways to earn scholarship money to attend the prestigious Boston Conservatory at Berklee dance school - she’s currently in her first semester there - Musk was encouraged to participate in the program by Cory Essebaggers. Essebaggers works with Musk’s mother Angela at Greenridge Realty, and her daughter, Stacy Shepherd, was Miss Michigan in 2001. Shepherd also previously taught dance classes at the Releve Dance Studio in which Musk was a student.

“She said, ‘Isabelle has that ‘it’ factor. I really think that she should try it, because there’s so much scholarship money,’” Angela Musk said of a conversation she had with Essebaggers.

For many who participate in the Miss America’s Teen program, it starts early - it’s open to girls ages 13-18. Musk, though, had never competed in an event until February 2023, when

It didn’t take long for Musk to display that ‘it’ factor. While she did not win Miss Shoreline’s Teen in that first pageant, she displayed enough skill to lead the state Miss America’s Teen director, Peggy Lotridge, to encourage Musk to compete in Miss Michigan’s Teen as an at-large candidate. There she performed well enough that

Lotridge knew Musk could be special.

It’s vital for competitors at Miss America’s Teen to have a talent, and obviously as a student at one of America’s most exclusive dance schools, Musk has that. However, just as important to her success, Lotridge said, is her outgoing and warm personality.

“Her talent is very good,” Lotridge said. “She’s a very highly skilled dancer, and that’s really noticeable. Also her personality...She really enjoys what she does, and she loves working with kids.

That’s always a plus. Just her whole attitude. She’s got a great attitude. She wants to excel.”

That personality manifests itself most noticeably in Musk’s own work teaching dance, where she’s had long-lasting effects on the students she’s taught. Angela Musk said a former student of Isabelle’s recently recalled advice she’d received from Isa-

White Lake cookbook club celebrates one year

By Madison Lajewski White Lake Mirror Writer

Diane Zoellmer had heard about cookbook clubs in the past, which inspired her idea to offer one to the White Lake community. She proposed the idea to White Lake Community Library director Virginia DeMumbrum, and just over a year ago, Zoellmer and White Lake Community Library adult program coordinator Amy Morris-Jones organized the first meeting.

“At our initial meeting, there were maybe five women interested,” Zoellmer said. “Now we have around 10 members. We discussed topics and details, and we decided we would meet the second Monday of every month. We’d meet once per month and choose a topic or chef, and we would each bring a dish based on that topic. We bring a copy of the rec-

ipe for the dish we brought for each member.”

Each meeting has a theme, sometimes centered around an upcoming holiday or the season.

“In October, our topic was Thanksgiving sides or what to do with leftovers,” said Zoellmer. “Our December topic will be dips and appetizers. We’ve had a corn theme, soups, breads. I have a book that I’ve kept with all of the recipes that people have brought in and all of the topics.”

For many members of the club, the recipes shared have become favorites in their own homes.

“At our first December meeting, our theme was candies and cookies,” Zoellmer said. “Somebody made homemade marshmallows. They were amaz-

Whitehall High School graduate Isabelle Musk (center) poses for a photo with students she has taught dance at the Releve Dance Studio during a Nov. 23 send-off party at the studio. Musk won the title of Miss Michigan’s Teen this summer and will compete for Miss America’s Teen Dec. 31-Jan. 5 in Orlando. • Andy Roberts/Mirror

Whitehall High School grad Isabelle Musk and her mother Angela pose for a photo during a Nov. 23 send-off party for Isabelle. Musk only began participating in the Miss America’s Teen program less than two years ago. • Andy Roberts/Mirror

Releve Dance Studio hosted a send-off party for Whitehall High School graduate Isabelle Musk Nov. 23, in honor of Musk’s upcoming trip to Orlando to compete in Miss America’s Teen. • Andy Roberts/Mirror

A husband and wife duo brought a beautiful charcuterie board to share with the other members of the cookbook club at a previous meeting. • Courtesy Photo

Isabelle Musk continued on page 2 Cookbook

A husband and wife duo brought a beautiful charcuterie board to share with the other members of the cookbook club at a previous meeting. • Courtesy Photo

Isabelle Musk continued on page

A husband and wife duo brought a beautiful charcuterie board to share with the other members of the cookbook club at a previous meeting. • Courtesy Photo

Isabelle Musk continued on page 2

Cookbook Club

ing. She brought packets of hot chocolate to go with them. I made the recipe a couple of times and shared it with my sister. Her grandson loves them. That’s probably been my favorite recipe I’ve received so far. There’s a soup recipe that was shared in this club that has also become a part of my regular rota-

continued from page 1

tion. I will frequently make the recipes that the others have shared.”

The club allows people to share not only their favorite recipes, but also the memories and stories that make them extra special.

“We have a husband and wife who regularly come, and at the last meeting

Isabelle Musk

belle when auditioning for the Vikings’ middle school competitive cheer team.

“She was a little nervous because she didn’t have a lot of the tumbling skills,” Angela said. “She told me she went to the audition and she thought about Isabelle telling her to go on the stage and look out there and pretend you’re looking right at somebody that you love, like your mom or your dad, and just dance for them. She did it, and she made the team in sixth grade, with maybe not all the skills everybody has, but she’s got that great stage presence. She channeled Isabelle.”

Part of participating in the Miss America program is outlining and executing a service initiative, and it comes as no surprise that Musk’s, inspired by her time teaching kids in Whitehall, revolves around the mental and therapeutic benefits of movement. She calls it “Leaping into Wholeness,” and by all accounts her focus on it dates to the COVID-19 pandemic, during which time she found keeping herself moving aided her mental health during a stressful time. She now wants to bring those benefits to others.

“I think having that driving her, the Miss Michigan program, it drove that to become what is now almost a nonprofit where she can have tax-deductible donations,” Angela Musk said. “It’s huge, and I don’t think that it will ever stop. She says, ‘Mom, long after this is over, I feel passionate about raising money to help kids that can’t do these things.’”

Musk is a people person by nature - “I could talk to you for three hours,” she smiles - but her work with the Miss America’s Teen program has really sharpened her public speaking skills and her ability to speak in a structured setting. Interviews are, of course, a staple of the program, and Musk is constantly working on that part of her presentation.

One of Musk’s first public appearances as Miss Michigan’s Teen was in the White Lake area’s Fourth of July parade, where she rode in a convertible and was greeted by onlookers and well-wishers. It was, for her, a remarkable event.

“Being able to come back to Whitehall and see everyone in the crowd and being recognized (was great),” Musk said. “I’ve always been recognized for dance, but being able to represent not only Michigan, but my hometown, and in something so much larger than dance, while also incorporating it, it’s magical. It’s so surreal. They’re just a lovely community. It’s been wonderful to come back and know that I have such a good support system behind me.”

From the outside, it’s easy to look at the Miss America program as a beauty pageant - words Lotridge bristles at.

While Lotridge said of course participants are beautiful, the program produces much more than a pretty face.

“I used to get that, the first time I would ask somebody to judge for the first time in our program,” Lotridge said. “I remember a lot of the time, 90% of the time, they’d say, ‘This is nothing like what I thought it was. I was expecting pageant girls.’ Vivian (Zhong), who was our

Miss Michigan three years ago now, is going to be a doctor this year. They’re not just pageant girls. Most of them are working on their MBAs, or their doctorates, or they’re in the middle of college. There’s just so much you get out of being in it. We benefit from it too.”

Even Musk said when she first heard about the pageant, her first thought was of Toddlers & Tiaras, a TLC reality show about youth beauty pageants she used to watch when she was younger. It didn’t take her long, though, to be dissuaded from that initial thought.

“It definitely was a little jarring going into it,” Musk said. I had no idea what to expect going into my first competition, Miss Shoreline’s Teen 2023. I told people I was competing at Miss Michigan after Miss Shoreline, (and people thought,) ‘So it’s a beauty pageant.’ The Miss America program is so much more than that. It has nothing to do with looks. It is a scholarship program, and that is why I joined.”

Musk said being part of the program has provided her not just with renewed self-confidence, but with great friendships.

“I was embraced by so many sweet girls I had never met before,” Musk said of her first Miss Shoreline’s Teen pageant. “I spent not even

they brought a charcuterie board,” said Zoellmer. “This particular duo, they’re quite the cooks. They love cooking and baking. When we did our bread theme, they brought in sourdough and gave everyone packets of sourdough starter. One time, one of our members brought cranberry sauce and she gave each of us a jar of it. Our very first theme was your favorite family recipe. One of the women brought in a focaccia bread that her dad had made for years when

she was growing up. It’s a very generous group, not only in sharing food, but also in sharing recipes and the stories behind them.”

The next meeting of the cookbook club will take place at the White Lake Community Library Monday, Dec. 9 from 5:30-7 p.m. New members are welcome to bring their favorite appetizer or dip, along with copies of the recipe to share.

continued from page 1

24 hours with them and they were like my sisters. Going into that and being able to just spend time in the program, it’s a sisterhood. It’s so important...I was embraced with so much love.”

Miss America’s Teen participants can only enter the competition on the national level once, but those who have won state teen titles may return to try for the Miss America title. Musk is eager to pursue that dream if she gets the opportunity. She said the Boston Conservatory has already agreed to allow her a leave of absence if she becomes Miss America’s Teen so she can focus on those responsibilities. Her accelerated threeyear program is too demanding to attempt while also being Miss America’s Teen - she says she is taking 20 credit hours this semester, and that number will go up once she declares her minor, creative entrepreneurship, and her specialty, dance pedagogy.

Despite the busy schedule, Musk continues to do community service work; Lotridge said she works with the Boston Boys & Girls Club. She views pursuing Miss America’s Teen as “a once in a lifetime opportunity.”

No matter what happens in Orlando, Musk will continue to pursue another lifetime dreamdancing with the Radio

• Andy Roberts/Mirror

City Rockettes someday. In fact, if Musk can accomplish what she hopes to, she has a rock-solid life plan.

“The Boston Conservatory has a partnership with the Rockettes, so that’s what really drew me to them,” Musk said. “I’m hoping to be

a Rockette and a backup dancer for industry artists. Broadway would definitely be a dream of mine, living in the city and performing as long as I can, but I do want to raise a family outside of the city. My ultimate goal is to own my own studio and teach.”

Whitehall High School grad Isabelle Musk (left) and the current Miss Michigan, Jenae Lodewyk, pose for a photo during a Nov. 23 send-off party for Musk at Releve Dance Studio. Musk will be eligible to compete for Miss Michigan after serving as Miss Michigan’s Teen this year.

Saturday, Dec. 7

Tall Light Rebellion performs @ Fetch Brewing, 7 p.m.

Smittyvision performs @ North Grove Brewers, 7 p.m.

Backwoods Express performs @ Pub One Eleven, 8 p.m.

Sunday, Dec. 8

Holiday open house @ Terrestrial Pottery Studio, 1-5 p.m. Inventory from several local artists. Event is

free; purchases must be made with cash or check.

Tuesday, Dec. 10

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

Family Storytime @ MADL Montague branch, 11:15 a.m. For kids ages 0 to 5 and their parents.

Wednesday, Dec. 11

Youth Open Studio @ ACWL-Nuveen Center, 3-5 p.m. Bring in proj-

ects you’re working on or start something new with help from staff.

Thursday, Dec. 12

Adult Open Studio @ ACWL-Nuveen Center, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Bring studio materials from home or explore available supplies in the classroom.

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

Echoes of History: Getting to school at the Mouth (Pt. 2) Community Calendar

Quoting further from this record, “In 1856 Noah Ferry, a lumber mill operator, built a school at the Mouth. It burned but was rebuilt in 1864. This building also burned. Another structure, belonging to a German Baptist Church in Maple Grove, was moved to the school site. This schoolhouse is still in use.”

Today, the same rugged determination which enabled their forefathers to overcome obstacles still prevails in this picturesque little community. It is a spot of great natural beauty and through their combined mutual interests will probably always remain so.

That ends Panzl’s article. Below is some additional information that came to light since she wrote her original article:

The first Mouth school was a log cabin with a dirt floor, built in 1849 and located on the north side of Old Channel Trail near the Lau Road intersection. It burned down but was rebuilt across from the post office on the bluff over looking the Old Channel bayou. It too burned.

The schoolhouse pictured is from 1895 and was the third school at the “Mouth”. Perhaps this was the German Baptist Church that was moved to the location. It burned to the ground Thursday evening, Nov. 22, 1900. The loss was $500 and was covered by insurance. By Jan. 3, 1901, the fourth new schoolhouse had been constructed on the same site and was ready for occupancy. It was used until the new brick school building was built across the road in 1957, which had four classrooms, a kitchen, teacher’s room and storage. Only two classrooms were finished in

the beginning, however, due to enrollment. In September 1957, 40 students through the 7th grade were enrolled at the Mouth. Eighth grade through high school students attended Montague school. This was the fifth and final Mouth School that was built.

In 1961, the new football and baseball field was ready for use. Plans were in the works for the building of a school gym/auditorium.

The following are just some of the teachers who were found to have taught at Mouth School over the years:

1855 - Mrs. L. M. Bennet taught that year, followed by her sister Mrs. Agnes Smith in 1856, and Mary Ann Hazelton in 1857. Amy Brown succeeded Mrs. Hazelton.

1868 – Mary Row came with her family to Michigan in 1866 when she was 14 years old, locating at the Mouth. She began teaching at White River at the age of 16. She married Frank Coleman in 1880 while he was stationed at the White River Life Saving station.

1890 – Mr. P. H. Fitzgerald was surprised by about 50 of the pupils of the “Mouth” school at the lighthouse. Dialogues, declarations and singing by a number of the pupils were among the events of the evening. At 11:00 supper was served. After supper, games were played until about 1:00. A very pleasant evening was enjoyed by all. Mr. Fitzgerald had taught a number of terms. This particular term ended March 27, 1890. Enrollment at the time was 67 pupils with an average daily attendance of 52.

1900 – Miss Helga Peterson was born in Sweden in 1882 and immigrated in 1886. By 1900 she was listed as a teacher.

Friday, Dec. 13

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

Post Fontaine performs @ Pub One Eleven, 8 p.m.

1901 – Miss Hazel Forbes – was born in December 1884 and began her teaching career that year at just 17 years old. In 1905 she married G. Judson Moog. Sadly, both she and their baby died that year during childbirth. She was just 20 years old.

Circa 1910 – Miss Sarah “Sally” Masters.

1922 – Miss Marie Heitman began her teaching career this year at Mouth School. She taught in various other area schools all her life. She never married and died in 1993 at the age of 92 years.

1927-29 – Mrs. Gertrude Buttleman was born in Claybanks in 1881. She married David Lewis Buttleman in 1903; she died Nov. 13, 1961.

1936-42 – Miss Thelma Vannette, who had taught in the one-room school for the past 6 years, would return the next year to teach again, according to a news item from July 1942.

1942 – Mrs. Murray Jackson – Ac-

cording to her 1969 obituary, she taught at Mouth School for about seven years.

1956 – A news item from April of this year mentioned that Miss Joan Bean was the K-5 teacher.

1956 – Mrs. William Noyd, Sr. was mentioned as a teacher in a news article from December 1956.

1957 – Jesse Hepworth, Principal, taught the upper grades. Mrs. Gertrude Noyd taught the primary grades. Mrs. Noyd retired from teaching at the Mouth in 1960.

1958 – Mrs. Carl Bjerregaard was listed as a teacher during that year.

1961 – There were three teachers: Mrs. Thelma Hovey, primary; Mrs. Barbara Jensen, intermediate; Jesse Hepworth, Junior high room. William Hendricks was the bus driver and maintenance man.

In 1967, Mouth School was consolidated into the Montague school system.

Award-winning January Series returns Jan. 20

By Virginia DeMumbrum Volunteer Contributor

Mark your calendars for the return of Calvin University’s award-winning January Series presentations Jan. 2031. As in past years, you can watch the lectures on the big screen at the library each weekday at 12:30 p.m. You can also choose to watch them on your own computer or mobile device by registering at calvin.edu/january.

winner Hunter Woodhall, to name just a few. The speakers will continue to challenge you, help you view a subject in a new way, and wow you with a rich variety of topics. For a full list of speakers and topics, visit calvin.edu/ january.

The 2025 lineup features Olympians, explorers, filmmakers, diplomats, comedians, and more -Pulitzer prize-winning author Jonathan Eig, public radio host Peter Sagal, and 2024 Paralympics gold medal

FUN FACT: The January Series got its start in 1974 with a campus-wide lecture at Calvin called “Death and Dying”. Though it was part of the college’s between-semester class offerings for students, the public was also invited to attend for free. The lecture series continued to grow and change over the years, and now reaches more than 100,000 people worldwide each year.

Fun for Kids and Families

There are several programs and activities for children at the library this month. The Gingerbread Workshop is scheduled for Thursday, Dec. 12, from 3-7 p.m. The following Thursday, Dec.

19, bring the whole gang for the Holiday Sing-Along starting at 5:30 p.m. Jammies welcome! There will also be a candy cane scavenger hunt from Dec. 13-27, followed by a “Twenty 25s” scavenger hunt Dec. 28-Jan. 11. For the little ones, there will be an Open Playroom Day Friday, Dec. 27. Drop in anytime from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. to enjoy puzzles, games, art activities, and more. Then on Dec. 30, join us for a special New Year’s Noon party, complete with a balloon drop at the stroke of noon, to ring in the new year. All events are free, and registration is not required. For more details, visit our website at wlclib.org/children Free Children’s Books at the Tree Festival

Check out the library’s tree at the upcoming Christmas Tree Festival! White Lake United Methodist Church is once again hosting this free event for the whole community. It’s set for

Friday, Dec. 13 from 4-9 p.m. and Saturday, Dec. 14 from 3-9 p.m. at the church, located at 8555 Cook Street in Montague. Everyone is welcome to enjoy the many trees decorated by area merchants and organizations. The library tree will be piled with unwrapped books underneath, and children are invited to take a book home to keep.

DeMumbrum

The Mouth School, pictured in 1895. • Courtesy Photo

Lake Mirror Lake Mirror

NONPROFIT NEWS SOURCE community Day of celebration at Whitehall

Five Vikings make college destinations official Wednesday

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

WHITEHALL — While Wednesday didn’t feature the Whitehall wrestling “Assembly Dual” against Benzie Central - the match was canceled due to weather issues up north - it was still a day to celebrate for the student body, as five of its graduating seniors commemorated their signings to play college sports.

The Vikings sent two players to the Division I ranks, with Camden Thompson inking with Western Michigan for football and basketball and Gavin Craner signing with Central Michigan for wrestling. Two more players, Sidney Shepherd and Evelyn Darke, signed with Division II schools, with Shepherd choosing Cedarville University, in Ohio, for volleyball and Darke signing with the University of Mary, in Bismarck, North Dakota, for softball. Wrestler Wyatt Jenkins signed with Southeast Community College, located in Lincoln, Nebraska, with an eye to a future four-year school opportunity.

The high school gym was packed with students to witness the occasion, and athletic director Christian Subdon helmed the event with help from principal Brett Westerlund. Several coaches spoke on behalf of their athletes as well.

Thompson drew the biggest response from classmates after a successful career - which still isn’t over - that’s included two district football

championships, a district basketball title, GMAA track championships, a tie for the school high jump record that coach Kirk Mikkelson predicted will be broken this spring, and a slew of individual honors at the conference and state levels.

Thompson will pursue both football and basketball at WMU, though his scholarship is for football. The 6-5, 200-pounder will play wide receiver for the Broncos.

“I’m really thankful for this journey and all the work I put in and what they saw in me,” Thompson said of WMU. “To finally write it down and officially be a Bronco is amazing. It’s the best feeling in the world right now.”

The senior said he tried to attend as many Bronco games this fall as possible and appreciated coach Lance Taylor and his staff for being so welcoming any time he made it to Kalamazoo.

Even though football will be the priority by virtue of his scholarship, Thompson plans to put as much effort into his time with the basketball Broncos as he can.

“I’m not really looking at it as a challenge, more like an opportunity,” Thompson said. “I’m really grateful that they let me do both there...I’ll just give it my all, because I don’t know how many more years I’ll be able to do this.”

Craner, who starred for Whitehall in his first season last winter after transferring in from Belding, signed with the Chippewas in November. Expectations are high once again for Craner, who will wrestle mostly at 190 pounds this year, occasionally bumping to 215. Once he gets to CMU, he will wrestle at 184.

“They were my first ever visit,” Craner said of the recruiting process. “I really liked the coaches and the teammates. My friends are going there too. I had a blast when I went there. I want to stay around home. I really like the pro-

gram and I think I can do great things there.”

Craner said he is unsure of his aca-

Shelby press overwhelms Whitehall in opener

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

WHITEHALL — Whitehall prepared and prepared for Shelby’s press, which the Vikings knew was coming in Monday’s season opener. Several of the Tigers participated in a JV summer league earlier this year that Whitehall was also part of. Shelby won the league utilizing that defense, so it was no surprise when the Tigers threw it at Whitehall Monday.

Unfortunately, the Vikings struggled to counteract it, turning the ball over a lot - Shelby had 21 steals - and surrendering 21 consecutive first-half points on the way to a 53-17 defeat.

It looked like it would be a competitive game early when Clare Westerlund knocked down a three-pointer to tie the game at 5-5. However, that was the last time the Vikings scored for a long time as they were unable to get into their half-court offense due to the pressure Shelby displayed. Drew Buckner finally ended the 21-0 run with a layup, but by that time the Tigers already had all the points they would need to win. Westerlund led the Vikings with

eight points in the game, five of them in that first quarter.

“It looked like we’d never seen a press before and that we’d never practiced one, even though we knew that’s exactly what they were going to do,”

Whitehall coach Brian Milliron said.

“Hopefully it’s just a mental part that we need to figure out and we’ll be good after that, but that was the biggest issue and the biggest disappointment that we had, was dealing with the press and the turnovers.”

Although Whitehall entered the game with a lot more varsity experience than Shelby - the Tigers had three juniors and no seniors on their roster - Shelby’s players have played together for some years, and successfully so, at the middle school level. Whitehall’s players are not as familiar with one another on the court, with senior Sidney Shepherd having not played as a junior and a few of the Vikings’ other seniors having played primarily on the JV last season. It didn’t help that the team’s top returning player, Lexi Daggett, did not play Monday.

Milliron also noted that while several Whitehall players are multi-sport

athletes, basketball is not their primary sport in most cases, so there’s also an element of needing to play their way back into the groove of the game.

“As long as we peak at the right time, we’re doing alright, but we have to get better each day,” Milliron said.

Perhaps that lack of time on the court together played a factor in Whitehall’s inability to get comfortable against the Shelby defense. Milliron

Whitehall’s Clare Westerlund tries to get past Shelby defender Kylie Brown during Monday’s season opening game at Whitehall. The Vikings lost, 53-17.

• Andy Roberts/Mirror

Whitehall’s Camden Thompson (front row, center) celebrates signing to Western Michigan football Wednesday with his coaches, from left, front row, Tony Sigmon and Kirk Mikkelson; second row, Christian Subdon, Matt Shepherd, Tommy Lauterberg and CJ Van Wieren.

• Andy Roberts/Mirror

Whitehall’s Gavin Craner (second from left) celebrates his signing to Central Michigan wrestling with his family and coach Justin Zeerip (back row) Wednesday.

• Andy Roberts/Mirror

Signing day

demic plans but will consider pursuing criminal justice or science for his major. He said he’s enjoyed being able to achieve team success with Whitehall and contribute to its tradition of excellence.

“At (Belding), we had good wrestlers, but we never really had a full team,” Craner said. “Not a lot of athletes get the experience, the atmosphere of team state...I’m just very honored to be able to be a part of this program.”

Shepherd, like Craner, signed her paperwork in November before celebrating it Wednesday. She is considering studying either sports broadcasting or occupational therapy at Cedarville. She appreciated the Christian atmosphere there when she was going through the recruiting process, saying she felt welcomed there.

“I really like the coaching staff and all the girls, when I went on my visit, were super welcoming,” Shepherd said. “I got to have lunch with all of them. I

also really liked the campus and I like the opportunity.”

She will be playing setter for the Yellow Jackets, which is the position she’s most familiar with as she played it for her club team. Shepherd set for Whitehall too but was often deployed as an outside hitter, an experience she said made her a better player.

“I’m excited to set, though, because that’s what I love to do,” Shepherd said.

Darke thought her softball days would be finished after high school and was at peace with that when she unexpectedly received correspondence from UMary, a Benedictine school. The Marauders were interested in her to play third base, and on her visit she fell in love with the school.

A key factor for Darke was that UMary has a strong forensic psychology program, which is what she intends to major in.

“That’s kind of what got me,” Darke said. “They have a great program.

They’re offering me to play. I get to go play and get a great education. It’s a win-win.”

UMary is a building program, and Darke appreciates the chance to be part of starting something good there. She’s thrilled not to be done playing softball.

“After they reached out, it was almost a shock,” Darke said. “I can actually do this. I can actually go somewhere and do something. It just opened my eyes and made me realize how much I did want to play and that I would miss it.”

Jenkins is looking forward to returning to the mat with a vengeance after missing almost all of last season with a spinal cord injury. He said he feels he has a lot to prove and appreciates the chance to do it at Southeast.

“It’s been a long, hard road with a lot of ups and downs,” Jenkins said. “Overall it’s a pretty good outcome for me...I’m so pumped up for this. I’ve

• Andy Roberts/Mirror

waited so long to get back to it.”

Jenkins intends to earn a look from a four-year school after his time at Southeast and will wrestle at the 215-pound weight class this season, sometimes bumping to heavyweight. He said the Vikings intend to be in the state finals again this spring.

“We’re going to shoot to try and beat Dundee, but we’ll see how it goes,” Jenkins said. “We’ll try and make it to the state finals again and see how it goes from there. My goal is to go undefeated the whole year and get a lot of bonus points.”

Quartet of spikers pick up all-league awards

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

Four local players were named to the all-West Michigan Conference Lakes volleyball team this fall, all seniors.

Montague, which finished second in the regular season standings, put Maizie Collins and Jordan Netcott on the first team. Netcott was the team’s best defensive player, leading the Wild-

cats in digs, and was among the team’s most dangerous servers as well. Collins routinely led Montague in kills and was one of the most efficient attackers wearing blue.

For Whitehall, Bella Fogus and Sidney Shepherd were named to the first team. Fogus led the Viking offense in kills for the season, with 345. Shepherd, an all-around star, was Whitehall’s leader in assists (538), aces (68) and blocks (46).

Opening defeat

said his team actually did pretty well when in half-court sets, with solid ball movement, but because of the press - and Shelby’s aggressive play - those moments were not nearly common enough.

“We didn’t put enough shots up tonight,” Milliron said. “We need to do a better job of getting into our offense...They’re bigger than us, even though they’re a lot younger than us. I thought 50/50 balls were definitely not 50/50 tonight. They got a vast majority of them.”

Whitehall also struggled rebounding, though that could partially be explained by the Tigers’ having far superior size.

The Vikings do have a recent history of rebounding from early-season performances and having a successful season - the 202223 team scored seven points in a loss to Ludington but won a district championship. Whitehall will

have to hope - and work to ensure - that something similar can happen this season.

“There are things that I’m going to chalk up to early game stuff

that hopefully we can fix,” Milliron said. “Thursday we’re back at it at WMC, so we don’t have a lot of time to get ourselves right for that.”

in a seasonopening defeat. Raquel Walker scored 9 points for R-P and Grace Tindall chipped in 8 points. Ashlyn David grabbed 9 rebounds.

Whitehall athletes Wyatt Jenkins, Sidney Shepherd and Evelyn Darke all celebrated their college signings Wednesday at the high school. At left, Jenkins (center) celebrates with his family and coach Justin Zeerip; at center, Shepherd (center, front row) celebrates with her family and coach Ted Edsall; and at right, Darke (center, front row) celebrates with her family.

• Andy Roberts/Mirror Photos

Whitehall’s Camden Thompson (center) signs his letter of intent to attend Western Michigan Wednesday. Parents Annette and Rob look on.

Fogus Collins Netcott Shepherd

Whitehall’s Lianne Fagan (right) tries to keep the ball away from Shelby’s Jayna Burmeister during Monday’s opening game at Whitehall. • Andy Roberts/Mirror

Bowling Whitehall teams split with Holton

The boys’ Vikings beat Holton 20-10, and the girls dropped their match 21-9. Max Schneider led the boys with singles play games of 194 and 176. Felicity Dingman paced the girls with games of 147 and 135. Montague teams fall to Oakridge The Wildcat girls lost to Oakridge 18-12, with the boys losing 26-4. Carmen Howard led the girls’ team with a game of 128, while Matthew Leatherman bowled a 231 for the boys’ Wildcats.

Football players honored in conference

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

Whitehall, naturally, led the way in all-conference honors for local football teams after a 6-3 regular season, a district title and a perfect 6-0 mark in the West Michigan Conference Lakes, but 13 players in all were recognized on the first team in their conferences.

Notably, four Vikings - Gavin Craner, Jack Ambrose, Camden Thompson and Corde Anderson - picked up all-region honors in Division 4. Craner got the nod at running back, Ambrose at offensive line, Thompson at the defensive at-large spot, and Anderson at defensive line. Ryver Jarka of Montague was named an at-large all-region pick in Division 6. In Division 2, Lukas Johnson at wide receiver and Sage Secrest at linebacker picked up all-region awards.

The Vikings racked up many of the 13 all-conference players, led by three multiple-time first-teamers. Thompson received first team awards at quarterback, defensive back and punter; Anderson was honored at both tight end and defensive line; and Ambrose got the nod for both offensive and defensive line.

Ambrose’s work up front, of course, paved the way for much of the Vikings’ offensive success, and he was an effective space-eater on defense. That helped clear the way for Anderson to make plays in the offensive backfield. Anderson was also impressive catching the ball on throws from Thomp-

son, whose multiple threats at the quarterback position earned him his award. He also proved to be a strong defender on the back end of that side of the ball.

Jarka was also a double honoree, being named to the first team at both wide receiver and defensive back. Jarka had 1,009 total yards rushing and receiving and got in the end zone 10 times. He also had 62 solo tackles.

Gavin Craner, Blake English and Jamison Jeffery also earned offensive first-team awards at running back, receiver and center respectively. Craner was a force with the ball in his hands, proving very difficult to tackle; English was a big-play threat at the receiver position; and Jeffery anchored a very good Vikings’ line.

On defense, Brock Morningstar earned an award at defensive end and Ryan Goodrich was recognized at linebacker. Goodrich earned his honor despite missing the later part of the season with a season-ending injury, though his efforts early in the year were noteworthy. Morningstar controlled the edge on defense.

Morningstar also got honorable mention at blocking back, as did Connor Nash at tackle. Montague’s Devlin

received honorable mention at running back after taking over the starting job midseason and excelling at it, and David Myers got honorable mention at guard for the Wildcats.

Reeths-Puffer put Secrest at running back, Johnson at wide receiver, and Ben Adams at offensive line on the first team in the O-K Green Confer-

ence. Secrest was forced to play quarterback some of the season after an injury to Mason Darke and was adept at it thanks to his exceptional running ability. Adams’ work up front contributed to that, of course, and Johnson was a valuable deep threat for the Rockets. Top tackler Cal Millis received honorable mention at linebacker.

Final visioning session focuses on next steps

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

WHITEHALL — The third and final visioning session regarding the future of Sadony Bayou, Wednesday at the White Lake Community Library, focused on what local residents want for the bayou, which. Marty Holtgren, who has been working with the Chemours Environmental Impact Committee, expressed what seemed to be a representative opinion when he said, “The bayou doesn’t have to remain this way.”

Holtgren said a summary report about the findings of the three visioning sessions will be made available sometime in January. Those interested in receiving one can reach out to CEIC at makeitrightchemours@gmail.com

Spencer High of Querkus Creative, who was also part of the previous two meetings, presented a photo mock-up of what a healthy Sadony Bayou would look like, which included more animal life and less algae. More fish life in the

bayou would, High said, result in more birds in the area as well. High also joked about the feedback he’s gotten regarding wanting to see turtles in the bayou, saying, “One thing I’ve learned from the greater White Lake area is that everyone loves turtles.”

As has been discussed at previous sessions, the bayou used to directly connect to White Lake, but that connection slowly filled in over time, which, along with aftereffects of the former Hooker plant and the DuPont plant’s pollution of the area, has led to nutrient buildup in the bayou.

“To be blunt,” Holtgren said, most of the issues now facing the Bayou are the result of not having that direct connection with Lake Michigan, which would otherwise keep a natural outflow of the nutrients now in the bayou.

Among the findings from discussion at previous sessions were that residents are not interested in a “quick fix” solution, and that they are not interested in the area being overused for

recreation or a restoration being human-centric rather than focused on a balanced ecosystem.

“As a conservationist, that’s heartwarming to hear from a community,” High said.

The work of these sessions has drawn interest, said one commenter, from the new county water resources commissioner, Stephanie Barrett.

Here’s to you!

WHITEHALL — The Playhouse of White Lake hosted a retirement party for White Lake Chamber & Visitor’s Bureau executive director Amy VanLoon Sunday evening. VanLoon was toasted by former and current Chamber board members who have worked with her over the years - Greg Means, Brent Raeth, Brad VanBergen, Kathy Burress and Stephanie Ware. (Ware will succeed VanLoon as executive director upon her retirement.)

The band The Substitutes performed live music. Screens displayed images of VanLoon from many Chamber events over the years. Food was provided by Hanson Hill Waterfront Grill and the Old Channel Inn.

It was said that Barrett was at the first visioning session over the summer and was planning to attend the third before the winter storm intervened.

Grant applications are in progress to take the next step in restoring the bayou, which would include a feasibility study to gauge which potential solutions could be implemented and what steps would have to be taken to do so.

Dean

Adams

Anderson Ambrose

Goodrich

Francis

Craner

Jarka

English

Jeffery

Morningstar Johnson Secrest Thompson

Spencer High of Querkus Creative goes over the findings of the Sadony Bayou visioning sessions that have taken place this year during the final such session Wednesday at the White Lake Community Library. • Andy Roberts/Mirror

• Andy Roberts/Mirror Photos

Police activity this week

on Colby Street at Elizabeth Street. The crash occurred at 2:18 p.m. when a car traveling west on Colby failed to notice a car stopped on the road waiting to turn left. The first car was driven by an 84-year-old Whitehall woman and the second by a 29-year-old woman from Lakewood Club. That’s when a third westbound vehicle, driven by a 35-yearold Montague woman, failed to stop and struck the first vehicle. There were no citations written in the crash.

Nov. 25

Whitehall Police Report

Nov. 21

Officers on patrol at 1:15 p.m. noticed a vehicle with no license plate on Colby Street. After making a traffic stop in the 100 block of Franklin Street, the officer contacted the driver, who verbally identified himself and who freely admitted his license was suspended. Checking the 38-year-old Muskegon man in the computer confirmed his license was suspended but also that he was wanted for a DWLS 2nd Offense warrant issued by Whitehall police. The man was arrested and lodged at the Muskegon County jail and was cited for an additional charge of DWLS 2nd Offense.

Whitehall Police responded to the 100 block of E Muskegon Ave. on a report of a domestic assault. When the officer arrived, he noted signs of a disturbance in the home. After speaking with both people involved in the 10:09 p.m. call, the officer learned they had been drinking and an argument started. During the argument, the woman knocked a dish of food out of the man’s hand and then yanked an Internet modem from the cords. The officer attempted to mediate, having the woman leave the home, but when she refused she was arrested for domestic assault. The woman then resisted arrest but was eventually handcuffed and transported to the Muskegon County jail and lodged.

Nov. 22

No one was injured in a 3-car crash

At 6:13 p.m. Whitehall officers responded to a suspicious situation call in the 1000 block of Mears Ave. When officers arrived on the scene they located a man dragging three 12-foot long 2x4 boards on a bicycle. Officers questioned the 45-year-old man, who reported he was homeless, about the boards, but he denied they had been stolen. The officers were unable to identify where the boards may have been taken from and released the man.

Nov. 26

The SRO responded to the 200 block of E Market St. on a report of an assault on staff by a six-year-old. While investigating the 1 p.m. call, two staff members reported the student had thrown applesauce on the floor and was then asked to clean it up. The student then began to yell and curse at the staff members, who then started walking him to the office. While walking to the office, the student kicked and bit one staff member and kicked and punched the other. The student was later turned over to his mother.

At 4:22 p.m. Whitehall Police were called to a business in the 200 block of Colby St. on a trespassing report. The person had been banned from the business for stealing and had since returned multiple times and was warned each time. When the officer arrived in the area, he located the woman a block away from the business. The officer cited the 66-year-old for trespassing and again warned her not to return to the business.

Whitehall Police, responding to a

White Lake Chorale Christmas concert Dec. 14

The White Lake Chorale is excited to announce its upcoming annual Christmas Concert Saturday, Dec. 14 at 4 p.m. at Montague High School Center for the Performing Arts, 4900 Stanton Blvd., Montague. All are invited to join over 50 singers in celebrating the holiday season with an eclectic array of choral arrangements by Mark Hayes, Victor C. Johnson, Audrey Snider, Chad Weirick, and Stacey V. Gibbs, in the first half of the program; Roger Emerson, Ellen Foncannon, Mac Huff, Harry Simeone and Andre J. Thomas in the second half of the program. It will conclude with a universal hope for peace and celebration of love and joy. Free tickets for “A Rockin’ Festive Christmas” are available now at the fol-

lowing locations and/or from any Chorale member: The Book Nook and Java Shop and the White Lake Area Chamber of Commerce.

Under the direction of Cindy Moore for several years, The White Lake Chorale is an all-volunteer community chorus dedicated to the performance of good vocal music by composers and arrangers of all musical periods. The non-professional group rehearses from September to April and presents two different public programs each year. They are supported by donations, grants and free will concert offerings. If you can carry a tune and love to sing, consider joining. For further information, follow them on Facebook or call 231-893-5745.

notice from Adult Protective Services, discovered a married couple that were being swindled in a scam. The investigation revealed that the woman had “entered a contest” and had “won $25,000”. She then began talking with a man online who said he was very rich and would be sending the payments and in order to receive the payments, they needed to open a new account at a specific bank. The man online also said he had fallen in love with the woman and they would be married soon. Checks were sent to the victims, who deposited the money only to see it transferred out of the account almost immediately. The bank’s fraud investigators took note and found the check was a forgery and stopped the transactions. The bank saved the couple from any financial loss.

Nov. 27

A resident of the 600 block of Mary St. reported she lost nearly $8,000 in a scam that occurred in the three days prior. According to the victim, it started with an alert on her computer saying it had been hacked and instructing her to call a number listed on the alert. The person she called told her her bank account had been compromised and to take out all her money in cash. The woman admitted she was skeptical and that the people at the bank questioned her, but she went ahead and withdrew the money. The suspects then instructed her to go to two different party stores and buy Bitcoin with the cash. It was shortly after that the victim decided to call police. Whitehall Police want to remind everyone that scams are prevalent this time of year and to pay heed to the red flags they see.

Nov. 28

A good citizen called police after noticing a person prowling around the back of a business in the 800 block of Colby St. The officer responding to the 12:50 p.m. call located the suspect in the 700 block of Colby. The 45-year-old homeless man was questioned about taking items from a donation box and initially denied it but when pressed, admitted to taking items for a friend who

had young children. Concealed in his backpack were several items of children’s clothing. The man was warned not to go back to the business and released. The business, which was closed at the time, was contacted regarding prosecution.

A man was stopped for failing to dim his headlights and was later cited for having open alcohol in his vehicle. An officer on patrol at 10:25 p.m. passed by the vehicle, which was heading west on Colby Street, and caught up to the car for a traffic stop as it entered Montague. When the officer contacted the Montague man, the officer noted the odor of alcoholic beverages. The man admitted to having an open beer in the car. Sobriety tests showed the man was just under the legal limit, so a friend was called for a ride and the 56-year-old was cited and released.

Nov. 29

A 66-year-old Whitehall woman was arrested for trespassing when she returned to a business in the 200 block of E Colby St. Whitehall police were called at 3:28 p.m. when the woman arrived. The same officer had cited the woman just days before and took the next step by taking her into custody. The woman was taken to the Muskegon County jail and later released.

Nov. 30

A traffic crash in the 100 block of E Colby St. took out a tree, sitting bench and light pole on the north side of the street. According to the police report, the vehicle was traveling west on Colby in the inside lane and failed to realize the lane was ending with the bumpout. The vehicle, driven by a 38-year-old Egelston Township woman, first struck the bump-out before losing control on the snow-covered road and sliding into the parking lane and then over the curb, striking the things on the sidewalk. The driver and passenger were uninjured but the woman was arrested on an unrelated warrant. She was lodged at the Muskegon County jail.

White Lake UMC welcomes all to Christmas tree festival

The White Lake United Methodist Church in Montague invites all to share in its upcoming Christmas Tree Festival, with the theme “Dreaming of a White Lake Christmas”.

The festival, free to the public, takes place Friday, Dec. 13 from 4-9 p.m. and Saturday, Dec. 14 from 3-9 p.m. It will feature decorated Christmas trees of all types and sizes.

Other opportunities during the festival include: a special audio-visual presentation on Handel’s “Messiah” sponsored by the White Lake Chamber Music Society on Friday evening from 7-9 p.m., a “Sounds of Christmas” concert Saturday from 6-8 p.m., a bake sale, craft items, free children’s crafts throughout the event, and, of course,

Santa will be in attendance for photos and a chat.

The “Messiah” presentation will feature Robert Swan, retired from the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, offering his insights and thoughts on the beloved piece of music. Learn more about Handel, the background of the music, and Swan’s own reflections on the music.

Free-will donations will be accepted to help support UMC’s community outreach programs. For more information, please call Sondra Cross, director, at 232-329-3056.

This opportunity is presented by the White Lake Music Society. They remain committed to bringing great music to the White Lake Area, all of Michigan, and beyond.