The Oceana Echo - Volume 2, Issue 36, Jan. 31, 2025 by theoceanaecho

YOUR LOCALLY OWNED AND OPERATED NONPROFIT NEWS SOURCE

Roger Bailey – Setting the tempo in Pentwater

By AnnaMae Bush

The Oceana Echo Community Correspondent

The history of Pentwater is intertwined with several families whose generations have been associated with the village over many decades. One of those families is the Bailey family.

Roger Bailey has been setting the tempo for Pentwater with his drumming in community parades and civic band concerts since 1988. Roger was born on April 1, 1936, in Belding, Michigan. His father, Les Bailey, moved his family to Muskegon during WWII to take a foundry job. Roger, 7 years old at the time, had a brother named Bob who was 14 months older and a sister named Mary Elizabeth who was three years younger. “A few years later my father heard about a hardware store for sale in Pentwater. He was interested in having his own business, so in 1946 he moved our family again, this time north to Pentwater. I started Pentwater Public School in the middle of fourth grade.”

Making friends has always been easy for Roger. He made two lifelong friends that first year: Ed Bigelow and Barry Rought, both also familiar names in Pentwater history. One of Roger’s favorite school

memories is the Gun Club, which was started and led by the school principal, John Rottschafer. “We would all bring our guns to school and lean them up (unloaded) against our lockers for the school day and then grab them up to go out to the rifle range after classes ended. I got to be a pretty good shot.” That scenario is totally foreign to our schools today, although some rural schools offer gun safety classes.

The landscape surrounding the village provided great space for play and exploration. Roger recalls a camping experience he and Barry Rought had one night alongside the Pentwater River. It was late and very dark, and they heard something brush up against their tent. Terrified it was a bear, they froze and waited until several minutes of silence passed. Then they raced to pack up everything and ran home.

Bailey’s Hardware Store was the first place Roger worked; no child labor laws were in place to restrict what age he could work for his father. But he started earning money at the age of 14 as the drummer with a square dance band in Hart. Then he moved on to playing with an older, experienced saxophone player in a jazz band. His love affair with drums began with a toy drum in his childhood.

“Then I went to a large round cheese container I adapted for a drum. Eventually I got a real drum set and dreamed about making my living as a musician.”

But before pursuing that dream, Roger spent several years in the military. “I joined the Michigan National Guard in my senior year of high school. Every Tuesday I spent four hours in drills with my unit. After graduation in 1954 I was stationed with

the army at the Redstone Arsenal in Alabama where I worked on Nike Air Defense Missiles and at Fort Devens in Massachusetts for three years. A highlight of those years was seeing Bill Russell play a game in his first season with the Boston Celtics.”

Following his stint with the military, Roger returned to Pentwater. “I remember that commercial fishing was very important to the village at that time. To facilitate access to and from Lake Michigan in the early morning hours, the swing bridge across the channel would be left open for the fishing boats. Late one night, a man was driving his daughter somewhere, and he didn’t realize the bridge was not in place to bring him across the channel. He drove into the water, and both he and his daughter drowned.”

In 1958 Roger headed to California to pursue his dream of “making it big” in Hollywood as a musician. He packed his drum set in a car and made the long trip from Michigan. But his opportunity was cut short when only months after his arrival, his drums were stolen from his car, never to be recovered. One’s response to adversity speaks volumes about one’s character. What did Roger do? “I took a job at a sawmill in California, working second shift. I sorted and moved very large dimensional lumber. Wolmanized lumber (lumber chemically treated so as not to rot when in contact with the ground) was not yet being produced. The only wood used at that time for lasting construction was redwood, and it was plentiful in California. But it was hard work, and most employees on the second shift quit after a few days or weeks. I didn’t

last long either.” He returned to Pentwater and found work at Mears State Park. He also acquired drums, joined the Scottville Clown Band with his father, who played trombone, and joined the Pentwater Civic Band. He really enjoyed the outdoor work and spent the next 30 years employed in several state parks and recreation areas. He explained that recreation areas were generally larger than state parks and that recreation areas had a much longer hunting season than state parks permitted. It was during Roger’s employment at Lake Mitchell in Cadillac that Ed Bigelow arranged for Roger to have a blind date with Ruth, his future wife. They were married on June 15, 1963.

The locations Roger served (listed chronologically) were: Mears State Park, Lake Mitchell, Yankee Springs, Harrisville, Manistee, Grand Haven (where he was named state park manager), Ortonville Recreation Area and Metamora Hadley Recreation Area – his last location. Roger commented, “We had three children along the way – Mark, Chris and Lisa. Moving during their middle and high school years was a challenge for them because classmates changed with each different class in the day instead of being with the same group all day long.”

In 1987 their youngest child, Lisa, was 19. She was living at home, preparing to go to culinary school in Flint. Tragedy struck when Lisa was killed in a car accident.

The grief and memories were overwhelming. Roger felt a pull to his roots in Pentwater, the place that always felt like home, the place that centered him, that grounded him.

So, in 1988 he retired from his career in state parks and returned to Pentwater, where he completely immersed himself in the local community. He joined the Service Club, the Historical Society, St. James Episcopal Church, the Clown Band, the Civic Band and for 11 years he was sexton at the Pentwater Township Cemetery.

He shared, “I always had a passionate interest in history.”

Son Mark concurred. “No matter where we went on family vacations, dad would find a museum or battlefield, a library or historical site where he would take all of us for a visit to learn something.”

Since his return to the Village in 1988, Roger’s passion has played itself out in ways that have benefited residents and visitors alike. In scattered locations all around the Village there are sites marked with weather-resistant “story boards” that bear original photos and historical information to explain the role the site had in the development of Pentwater. They can be found on the main street downtown as well as along the channel. Roger had the lead role in that large project.

Standing at the bass and snare drums, for many years he set the tempo for the Civic Band selections at the weekly concerts on the Green. He was instrumental in establishing the annual combined Clown Band and Civic Band concert at the start of each Homecoming Weekend. Until health issues impacted their tradition in recent years, Roger and Ruth invited the entire Clown Band for a picnic meal in their large yard when they came to play for Homecoming.

Roger Bailey has seen

many transitions in Pentwater over the years he has lived in the village. He has watched how changes in the economy diminished industry and farm life. He has seen how city box stores and chain stores have replaced small-town family-owned stores such as his father’s hardware store. He has seen how soaring real estate prices have pushed many older residents out of the community. He also knows that before his time, Pentwater was a community that had to recover from three serious fires that destroyed much of the business district and industrial facilities.

Did he have any theories on what enabled the town to survive, even thrive, after adversity? He mused and said, “The town had some long-standing churches. I think the strong faith communities had something to do with it.”

Today Roger and Ruth Bailey enjoy a quiet life in their small home on Clymer. Their grandchildren and great-grandchildren live miles away, but both their sons live in Pentwater. Mark lives with them to help them with medical appointments and other needs. Chris is the sexton at Pentwater Township Cemetery and continues to do limited house painting work.

Roger’s contributions to the Pentwater Community were recognized in 2001 when the Service Club selected him as Citizen of the Year. He smiles and recalls, “It was a strange experience to ride in a car in the Homecoming Parade after all the years I had marched in the parade with the band.”

Thanks to Mark Bailey for his help with photos and story details.

Lisa, Mark, Ruth, Roger & Chris Bailey in 1982

Ruth & Roger on their wedding day in 1963

Roger & Ruth Bailey in their Clown Band attire

Roger Bailey today

VINTAGE SNOWMOBILE SHOW: Oceana County Fairgrounds

Snowmobile

Engines

Call Kevin Hallack for details at (231) 923-9279 or visit the Hart Winterfest Vintage Snowmobile Show on Facebook.

SOUP WALK

Downtown Hart from 12-3 p.m.

12 locations and 12 tastings for $7 per person if tickets are bought in advance. Tickets will be sold at the door for $10, but supplies are limited. Visit takemetohart.org/winterfest to buy tickets.

Soup makers and Locations: Kristi’s Pour House, Prado Foods @ Morningside Pallet Merchandise

Hansen Foods @ Birch & Blossom

Council on Aging @ Hegg’s Furniture

Stella’s Coffee House

Charlie’s Family Grill @ Cup of Kindness

Lakeside Family Fitness

Hart Pizza

Big Hart Brewery @ Oceana Bike & Boat

Bakery on the Corner Pink Elephant Diner LaProbadita

VOTES CAN BE TURNED IN AT YOUR FINAL STOP

SCAVENGER HUNT:

Downtown Hart from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Instructions available at takemetohart.org/winterfest

Download the app and complete the challenges. The top five highest scores will win a $25 gift card.

TAKE YOUR CHILD TO THE LIBRARY DAY:

Hart Area Public Library from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Thousands of libraries across the world celebrate

Take Your Child to the Library Day by offering free, fun, fabulous activities for families.

FRIENDS OF HAPL BOOK & BAKE SALE:

Hart Community Center, 407 S. State St. from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Help support our local library and grab goodies and books.

CHALET WINTER CRAFT MARKET:

Hart Commons Parking Lot from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

The Main Street Market chalets in the Hart Commons Parking will be filled with five new vendors featuring shadow boxes, jewelry, 3D prints, hand-carved wooden bowls and sculptures, concrete sculptures, paintings, crochet items, and home decor goods.

WINTER CORN HOLE TOURNAMENT:

Parking lot next to LaProbadita. Registration begins at 1 p.m. and the tournament will start at 1:30 p.m. Event details are available at takemetohart.org/winterfest

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 8

THE FROZEN TIN MAN WINTER GOLF OUTING, RAFFLE & AUCTION

1774 W. Polk Rd., Hart, MI 49420

Registration from 1:30 p.m. with a shotgun start at 2:30 p.m. Food, awards, music, a bonfire and raffles to follow. Cost is $35 per person.

Walk the course or bring your own golf cart/ORV. 2-4 person scramble - includes nine holes of golf, three tennis balls, a bowl of soup, hot dog, prizes, raffle, bonfire and DJ. Register your team here https://fareharbor.com/embeds/ book/harthistoricdistrict/items/602121/?full-items=yes TAKEMETOHART.ORG/WINTERFEST

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

When Oceana’s current boundaries were first established in 1855, there were but three townships: Pentwater, Stony Creek, and Claybanks. As more people arrived and new areas were settled, these original three townships were split up into smaller and smaller sections. The area we now call Colfax was the last township to be established. It was taken from what was previously considered Crystal Township in April 1869. But the settlement of Colfax took place before even that.

The earliest settler in Colfax was Anson Freeman, who arrived in 1863. He homesteaded 160 acres and built a house in October of that same year, but he wasn’t able to bring his family out to their new home until the following year. Page’s history of Oceana County tells us that he “had to cut a road eight miles through the woods

and build a bridge across a good-sized creek, in order to get his family on their new place.”

The Freemans were responsible for erecting the first school in the township. If you read my series covering Oceana’s rural schoolhouses, which appeared in The Echo a little over a year ago, you may well remember the Freeman school. This log schoolhouse first opened in 1869, the same year that the township was organized. Mrs. Axie Freeman, previously Mrs. Axie Jewell, began teaching in the “hastily-constructed schoolhouse…as soon as the roof was on, and before a floor was laid….” Of course, if there was a school, that means there were schoolchildren to be taught. Following the Freemans was a slew of other settlers. First, we have Calvin Woodworth, who arrived in 1864. Next there were L. M. Keyes and Rufus Jewell, who formally arrived in 1867. Jewell, who was born in New York, located his land in Colfax on April 20, 1866, and moved his family there almost a year later on April 14,

1867. All in all, he homesteaded 120 acres on section 34. Some other early settlers include William Draggoo, Moses Bolton and Stephen Blanchard. Fayette Walker even spent a decade in Colfax, residing there between the years of 1870 and 1880. He would later go on to establish Walkerville. Our history books don’t have too much to say about Colfax, probably in part because there were simply fewer people here than in other areas of Oceana. Hartwick and Tuller’s “Oceana County Pioneers and Businessmen of To-Day” has only this to say:

This is another patriotic town, named in honor of an illustrious Vice President. The township is a close competitor with Otto for the smallest number of inhabitants of any town in the county. It is, however, still possessed of valuable pine lands and some good for farming purposes.

The vice president in question was Schuyler Colfax, who served between the years of 1869 and 1873. And what

Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program hours set for 2025

By Sharon Hallack

The Oceana Echo Community Correspondent

It’s that time of year…tax season! For some, all of the ins and outs of preparing an annual tax return can be a daunting task. However, in some cases, not knowing how to report those very ins and outs could result in the loss of refunds that may be available. The good news is that help is available and free!

United Way’s VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance) program is now scheduling free one-hour appointments for qualifying individuals in Oceana County. Appointments will be available at two locations in Hart, Feb. 3 through April 14 on Mondays at the Oceana County Council on Aging, located at 4250 W. Tyler Rd., from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and Thursdays at the Hart Community Room, adjacent to Hart City Hall, 407 S. State St., from 1-6 p.m. Individuals

are encouraged to call 211 and schedule their appointment today.

“The VITA program focuses on federal returns for families and individuals who have low to moderate incomes, including the elderly, veterans, the disabled, single parents and low-income families. If they qualify for a refund and make under $66,000 annually, we will prepare their return free of charge,” said Amanda Kitchka of Goodwill Industries West Michigan, and coordinator of the program.

VITA is one of the many beneficial programs available through the United Way of the Lakeshore and is administered by Goodwill Industries of Michigan. According to a recent United Way e-newsletter, VITA accounted for over $2M worth of tax returns to lakeshore families last year.

More information on the United Way’s VITA program and other free tax assistance can be found at https://www.unitedwaylakeshore.org/tax-assistance.

by scanning the QR code at right or

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

they said about the population of Colfax remains true today. According to the 2023 United States Census Bureau, the current population is about 454 people. Even Otto has nearly doubled that at 892.

New Shelby Chamber of Commerce members get first year free

The Shelby Chamber of Commerce is inviting all community members to consider joining the Chamber in 2025 and receive their first year’s membership at no cost.

Becoming a chamber member includes important benefits such as networking, referrals, community connection, increased visibility and marketing. This is a group of enthusiastic and engaged individuals whose goal is to promote and grow the Village of Shelby.

Some of the important initiatives this group has been involved in within the past year include collaborating with the township and village to refresh area signage, creating book walks and lending libraries and bringing spring, summer and fall banners to downtown. They played key roles at Shelby Township’s “Fruit Festival,” downtown’s “Trunk or Treat,” the soft opening of Getty Park and the village’s Christmas celebration, “A Holiday Evening in the Village.”

To join, please visit the Shelby Chamber on Facebook or scan the QR code at right.

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 and True North Housing Assistance satellite open by appointment throughout the winter months. Please call 231-861-4880 to make an appointment. Walkerville Wesleyan Church, 144 S. Hamon St.

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)

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., Hart, doors open at 4 p.m.

Last FRIDAYS: Free Soup Suppers, Newman Christian Community Church, 4075 S. 132nd Ave., Hesperia, 5:30-7 p.m.

1st Saturdays: Baby Pantry, Trinity Lutheran Church, 8:30-10 a.m.

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

Tuesdays: Pit Stops for Men, age 12+, 6:30-7:30 p.m. (2/18-4/8)

Saturdays: Celebrate Worship Service, 6:30 p.m.

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

Complete schedule at: theladdercommunitycenter.com

Sharing the History of Medicine at The Ladder

The Ladder Community Center in Shelby invites all adults 18 and up to join them Tuesday, Feb. 18 from 1:30-2:30 p.m. for Share Our Stories (SOS). This month’s SOS theme, which was rescheduled from January due to weather, will be “The History of Medicine.” They will discuss how the practice of medicine has changed in our lifetimes. Share your memories of doctors, nurses and hospitals in Oceana County. Interesting medical textbooks and ledgers that belonged to Hart’s Dr. L.P. Munger will be presented.

SOS is a monthly event held at The Ladder, where people gather and share memories, photos and other memorabilia from Oceana County. There is no additional cost for registered adult members 18 and over. Please note in case of severe weather, this event will be canceled.

To inquire about an event, or with ideas for future topics of interest for SOS, call The Ladder at 231-259-0211. Visit theladdercommunitycenter.com to view all upcoming events.

PAC’s Cocoa, Corks and Canvas set for Feb. 8

The Pentwater Art Council’s “Cocoa, Corks and Canvas” will take place from 2-5 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 8 as part of Pentwater’s Winterfest Celebration. Wristbands for the event can be purchased for $20 in advance at Port View and Green Isaac’s, or on the day of the event for $25 at any of the participating locations. Enjoy cocoa, wine and art at the following businesses: Art on the Town, Birch Michigan, Clutch, Craze, Kook’s Eye, Oldewick Post, Painted Frog and Vignette. Wine for the event was procured by Port View and the cocoa by Green Isaac’s. Cocoa for minors will be free with a paid adult. All proceeds from this event will go to benefit art education in Oceana County.

Registration open for The Ladder’s Puzzle Competition

The Ladder Community Center in Shelby is hosting its seventh annual Puzzle Competition Saturday, March 22 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The competition will consist of four-person teams, each team working on the same 1,000-piece puzzle. Stop by The Ladder to register by March 12. The entry fee of $50 per team includes a soup and sandwich lunch and refreshments. All entry fees are due at the time of sign-up. Doors open for contestants at 9:30 a.m. the day of the competition. Prizes will be awarded to the members of the three fastest puzzle-assembling teams. No spectators are allowed during the competition. Visit The Ladder Community Center at 67 N. State St. in Shelby to sign up. Call 231-259-0211 for more information.

February

Feb. 1 - Bring Your Child to the Library Day, HAPL, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Feb. 1 - Take Your Child to the Library Day, SADL, 9 a.m. to noon

Feb. 1 - Vintage Snowmobile Show, Fairgrounds, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Feb. 1 - Hart Winterfest, Corn Hole Tournament, Scavenger Hunt, Chalet Craft Show, Warming Stations, DJ, Book & Bake Sale and more, downtown Hart

Feb. 1 - Hart Winterfest Soup Walk, downtown Hart, noon to 3 p.m.

Feb. 1 - SHS Athletic Boosters fundraiser, Optimist Club, 7-11 p.m.

Feb. 3 - NAF planning meeting, Hart Community Center, 6 p.m.

Feb. 4 - Tech Time, Hesperia Comm. Library, 1:20-2:30 p.m.

Feb. 6 - Versiti Blood Drive, W. MI Research Station, 2-6:25 p.m.

Feb. 6 - Shelby Chamber of Commerce, Business After Hours, 242 N. Michigan Ave., Shelby 5-7 p.m.

Feb. 7 - Story Time, Hesperia Community Library, 10-11 a.m., Tween Night, Community Room, 3:15-4:45 p.m.

Feb. 8 - Pentwater Winterfest, Bonfire and Sledding at the Village Green, Ice Skating at North End Park, all day

Feb. 8 - Ryan Williams Perch Fishing Tournament, 7 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Feb. 8 - Snowman Scram 5K & 1 Mile Fun Run, PPS, 11a.m. to 1 p.m.

Feb. 8 - PAC’s Cocoa, Corks, and Canvas, 2-5 p.m.

Feb. 8 - Frozen Tin Man Golf Outing, Hart irrigation fields, Polk Rd.

Feb. 9 - Oceana Cross Country Ski Association’s Ski Free Sunday, Crystal Valley Ski Trail, 1-4 p.m.

Feb. 9 - Shelby Choirs Pre-Festival Concert Performance, Shelby High School Auditorium, 641 N. State St., Shelby, 7 p.m.

February is Love Your Library Month

The Shelby Area District Library will celebrate Love Your Library Month with special events throughout February. The month will kick off with Take Your Child to the Library Day on Saturday, Feb. 1, from 9 a.m. to noon. Families will participate in several activities that day, including a scavenger hunt, crafts and board games.

Craft projects will be offered on Wednesday evenings, and a full schedule can be viewed at www.shelbylibrary.org. Patrons can make bookmarks every Tuesday with supplies provided by the library. On Saturday, Feb. 22, the library will host the last Silent Book Club meeting of the season from 1-2 p.m. Attendees will decorate heart-shaped cookies before settling in to read quietly for an hour. This event is for adults only, and registration is required. Love Your Library Month will end with a “Step Back in Time” exhibit that will highlight the Shelby area through historic pictures, documents and artifacts. The exhibit will be available in the library’s reading room for viewing during library hours the week of Feb. 24. If you have questions or would like to register for events, please call 231-861-4565 or email tifhaight@shelbylibrary.org.

HAPL to host Bring Your Child to the Library Day

Hart Area Public Library will be hosting Bring Your Child to the Library Day on Saturday, Feb. 1, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Children of all ages will enjoy a lifesized game of Candy Land. Check in at the front desk with your family or friend group and receive your game spinner. Then follow the colored squares through the Peppermint Forest, Lollipop Woods, past the Snowflake Lake and the Chocolate Swamp to get to the Candy Castle. When you finish your game, you can head over to the Hart Community Center for the Friends of the Library Book and Bake Sale. The book sale will be open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Book and DVD donations are currently being accepted at the library.

For more information, contact the Hart Area Public Library at 231-873-4476 or email librarian@hartpubliclibrary.org.

Places of Oceana County – Country Dairy: Looking Back… Part VIII

‘In the Garden: Ellen, A Memoir’

By Janet (Van Gunst) Hasselbring The Oceana Echo Community Correspondent

Losing one’s mother is one of life’s profound transitions. Attempting to capture its earth-shattering and transforming power, Sebastion Barry, in “The Secret Scripture,” writes: “We are in mourning for our mothers even before we are born.”

According to C.S. Lewis:

“With my mother’s death, all settled happiness, All that was tranquil and reliable disappeared from my life. There was to be fun, many pleasures, many stabs of joy, But no more of the old security. It was sea and island now. The old continent had sunk, like Atlantis.” (“A Grief Observed”)

Being with my mother as she died and “watching” her enter Heaven with her beloved Henry changed my life (“Never Forgotten,” The Oceana Echo Jan. 24, 2025). As the years went by, I reflected on the connection between the way she died and the way she lived. The more I learned, the more I realized that death is the end of illusion and

that nothing real is ever lost. I became convinced that her story could serve as a candle in the darkness, lighting the way to hope, faith, and eternal life.

“A memoir is a reflective rearrangement of actual events.” (Woiwode, “What I Think I Did”)

I began the daunting task of documenting her life of 90 years by rereading Lewis’s allegory, “The Great Divorce.” Lewis describes a busload of pilgrims, transported to Heaven, with an invitation to remain if desired. Amazingly, only one chooses to stay. The rest, unable to tolerate the heavenly radiance, clamber back onto the bus and return to their comfortable, “gray” lives in “Shadowlands.” Lewis claims the choices these folks made at the pivotal crossroads of their lives influenced their decisions to depart.

It came to me then that the one who remained was my mother. And, why? Because at every crossroads of her life - when she faced tragedy and heartbreak and asked “Why?” of her Lord — she chose hope over despair, faith over doubt, acceptance over resignation, good over evil and love over fear. Though Heaven may have taken her breath away, she was prepared for the spiritual altitude and the brilliant surroundings.

I structured her story by choosing defining events of her life and described how she, through faith and prayer, persevered through hardship, tragedy and suffering to accept God’s will. Her faith was not dependent on understanding; her prayers - conversations with her Lord, sprinkled throughout the memoir, indicate a deep inti-

macy with Him, an intimacy that can only be achieved through obedience and trust.*

These are the defining events:

1. Dealing with the challenges of farm life, Ellen, the fledgling, honed the mantra, “God Will Provide.”

2. Accepting the Unacceptable – Ellen’s life was never the same after the untimely death of her daughter.

3. Pain of Estrangement – When their youngest son deployed to the jungles of Vietnam, my parents couldn’t have known that war would alter their relationship forever.

4. Heaven Tugging – When her beloved Henry died, Ellen mourned the love of her life and longed to be in Heaven with him.

5. Home at Last – As her health

failed, Ellen became homebound and dependent, a challenge for someone who had filled the house on the hill with energy and ambiance for so many years.

This, then, is the essence of my mother’s life:

“Next to the might of God, the serene beauty of a holy life is the most powerful influence for good in the world.” (D.L. Moody)

Note I: I wanted to title the memoir “An Extraordinary Woman: An Extraordinary Life,” but I knew my mother would be uncomfortable with that designation; however, her life is a testament to what God can do in the lives of ordinary people, who put their faith and trust in Him.

Note II: Though my siblings helped me wean and sort out facts, the memoir is my “reflective rearrangement of actual events.” Their reflections would yield different, yet authentic stories.

*When you’re ‘in the garden’ with Janet’s mother and her Lord, their conversations could easily be your own. Pour yourself a cup of coffee, sit out on the front porch, and get ready to be inspired by the story of this remarkable follower of Jesus.” (Clare De Graf, “The 10 Second Rule”)

*More information about the memoir, “In the Garden”, can be obtained from the author at janethasselbring23@gmail.com. “Country Dairy: A Week with Hinie and Ellen” can be purchased at the Country Dairy farm store.

Stay tuned for Part IX

Henry and Ellen Van Gunst’s 50th Wedding Anniversary

In Loving Memory of our Family, Friends and Neighbors

obituaries

Donald Clarence Kuipers

June 3, 1934 ~ January 23, 2025

Donald Clarence Kuipers, 90, passed away peacefully Jan. 23, 2025. He was born in Muskegon, June 3, 1934, to Clarence and Elsie (Fisher) Kuipers.

Don was a humble, soft-spoken man who preferred to let his actions speak for him. He had quiet patience and a kind, loving nature, always showing his care in his own gentle way. One of his greatest joys was watching his grandchildren play sports, especially basketball, where he cheered them on with pride. When he wasn’t with family, Don could often be found cycling, sometimes covering up to 50 miles a day on his bike. His faith was a cornerstone of his life, and he was a lifelong member of the New Era Reformed Church, a place that meant the world to him.

Don is survived by: his wife, Kay (Motcheck) Kuipers; children, David (Kathy) and Vicki (Gary); stepchildren, Ted, Mike (Sherry), Chris and Tim; 12 grandkids; and 17 great-grandkids.

Don was preceded in death by his parents, Clarence and Elsie (Fisher) Kuipers; late wife, Arlene (Bush) Kuipers; sister and brother-in-law, Eleanore and Rich Vanderveen; and baby daughter, Debra Kuipers.

In accordance with Don’s wishes, cremation has taken place, and a celebration of life will be held in the summer, and interment will take place in New Era Cemetery in the future.

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

Patrick J. Norman

January 11, 1958 ~ January 26, 2025

Patrick J. Norman passed away unexpectedly on Jan. 26, 2025. He was born Jan. 11, 1958, to Walter and Samuella (Smith) Norman.

Patrick married Debbie Coss on July 17, 1976, sharing 48 years of marriage. He also worked and retired from the Oceana County Transfer Station.

Patrick is survived by: his wife, Debbie; children, Michelle (Josh Easton) Riggs, Thomas Norman, Morgan (Jeordi) Woodbury; grandchildren, Adrianna, Jacob, Malachi, Ellen, Blayne, Brighton, Serenity and Emmeline; sisters, Cindy Riggs and Colleen Norman; brother, Tim Norman; several nieces, nephews, and other extended family members.

Patrick was preceded in death by: his parents; and brother, Matt Norman.

In accordance with Patrick’s wishes, cremation has taken place, and a Celebration of Life will be held in the spring.

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

Obituary Information:

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

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

Pentwater Township Library Annual Budget Public Hearing

The Board of Trustees will hold a Public Hearing on the proposed budget for the Fiscal Year 2025/2026 on:

Date: Tuesday, February 18, 2025

Time: 5:30 P.M.

Location: Pentwater Township Library, 402 E. Park Street, Pentwater, MI

The purpose of this hearing is to present the proposed budget for the upcoming fiscal year and to provide the public with an opportunity to review and comment. All community members are invited and encouraged to attend.

A copy of the proposed budget will be available for public inspection at the Pentwater Township Library during regular business hours.

Notice to Taxpayers: The property tax millage rate proposed to be levied to support the budget will be a subject of this hearing.

Shelby Village and township sign LOU and MOU for possible community pool

By Sharon Hallack The Oceana Echo Community Correspondent

SHELBY - Monday, the Shelby Village Council authorized Village President John Sutton to sign on their behalf a Letter of Understanding (LOU) with Shelby Township and likewise a Memo of Understanding (MOU) with Shelby Public Schools in support of the vision of Shelby Township to lease the current Getty Field site for possible construction of a new community pool.

Both the LOU and MOU are meant to communicate the parameters of the project and responsibilities of all stakeholders as the proposed project moves forward. For the school, the MOU recognizes the current IGA (Intergovernmental Agreement) between the village and the school, and will continue to honor it up until or if a pool is built, at which point the IGA would be amended. The MOU also says the existing IGA will be honored and reverted to if a community pool does not come to fruition.

For the township, the LOU states the village will offer to lease Getty Field to the township for $0 in perpetuity, provided that the township would be responsible for the operation and maintenance of the pool and associated costs. Likewise, the village would forgive the tap fee, but the township would pay typical usage costs, and the village would mow the grass outside the fence that surrounds the pool. If the township were to abandon the pool, it would revert back to the village, with the township responsible for removing it and restoring the field. The village would retain the option to take the pool over if the township was no longer able to maintain it.

Shelby Township Supervisor Richard Raffaelli reassured those gathered that not one dollar has been spent or any plans drawn up as of yet. However, after four public forums and 316 surveys related to the new township park, Raffaelli said the township wished to follow up on requests from the community and explore the possibility of a community pool.

The township initially looked into installing a pool at Shelby Township Community Park’s yet-to-be-constructed community/athletic center. However, having a pool in the village would give more people access. “An indoor pool isn’t feasible,” Raffaelli told council Monday. He reported it would cost roughly $1M annually just to maintain it versus a projected $72,000 to maintain an outdoor pool. “Outdoor pools have a 70-year lifespan and about a 30-year lifespan on equipment if maintained properly.”

Since bringing the idea to the village, Raffaelli and Village Manager Phil Morse have been exploring the possibilities, conferring with the Holland Parks and Recreation Director Andy Kenyon, specifically.

Raffaelli reported Holland’s pool is well-used, 50 years old and still alive. Morse asked Kenyon if he had to do it all again, would he install a pool, and Kenyon said he most definitely would.

Raffaelli assured those gathered that prior to any final decisions, renderings would be drawn up and public hearings would be held to gather input. He guesstimates the total cost of a community pool project to be $1.6M. The township’s vision for the project thus far would include a 25yard pool in an L-shape that is four feet deep, featuring a ramp for those with physical limitations. A second pool for toddlers would be zero-entry and only 10 inches deep. The pool would be accessible to all, with a payas-you-go model available for private groups to conduct swimming lessons, as well as the school for extracurricular events and physical education. A small pavilion, playscape and BBQ area would be included and could be rented for special events. The project would be fenced and gated, with changing rooms and a small concession stand. Ample and accessible parking would also be worked into the plans.

“We really want the school and village to support the project. It would be a nice addition to what we’ve got going. We (the township) would ask for zero rent on the land (Getty Field) in exchange for the township paying for all expenses,” Raffaelli said.

The council expressed optimism and support as Raffaelli fielded several questions from them.

A community pool would be permitted by EGLE (Environment, Great Lakes & Energy Dept) and be regulated by District Health Dept. #10, Raffaelli said. Reasonable pool use fees would be charged based on whether the user was from Shelby or outside Shelby. A portion of fees collected would be kept in a capital fund for future pool maintenance and repair. The pool would most likely be open from Memorial Day to just after Labor Day, depending on the weather. A pool of that size would allow 250 maximum swimmers, spread over two time periods a day and would require three lifeguards.

As far as the possible loss of the school’s practice soccer field, Raffaelli reminded the group there are two practice fields at the new township park they have made available to the school already, and Superintendent Mark Olmstead said the school is looking into other campus property that could be developed into practice field(s).

“We are thankful to Mark, the school board and to the township for wanting to do what’s best for the community,” Morse said.

“If I was a betting man, I’d say we’re about 75 percent a go, but there’s a lot of steps to take yet. This is infinitely more complex than a park,” Raffaelli concluded.

By JoAnn Derson

FROM KING FEATURES WEEKLY SERVICE, 628 Virginia Drive, Orlando, FL 32803

• On Feb. 3, 1953, French oceanographer Jacques-Yves Cousteau published a memoir co-written with Frederic Dumas, “The Silent World,” about his time exploring the oceans. It was made into an Oscar-winning documentary directed by Louis Malle three years later, the success of which allowed Cousteau to retire from the navy and devote himself full time to oceanography.

CUSTOMER SERVICE: (800) 708-7311 EXT. 257 STRANGE BUT TRUE #12345_20250120 FOR RELEASE JAN. 20, 2025

By Lucie Winborne

• On Feb. 4, 1913, Rosa Louise McCauley, better known to us today by her married name of Rosa Parks, was born in Tuskegee, Alabama. The lifelong civil rights activist’s refusal to give up her seat on a segregated bus to a white man in 1955 remains a defining moment of America’s civil rights movement.

• On Feb. 5, 2012, 36-year-old Josh Powell, who had been labeled a person of interest in the 2009 disappearance of his 28-year-old wife, Susan, locked out a social worker before killing himself and his two young sons, Braden and Charlie, by setting fire to his Graham, Washington, home. Susan Powell’s remains have still not been found.

• On Feb. 6, 1928, a woman calling herself Anastasia Tchaikovsky (later Anna Anderson) and claiming to be the youngest daughter of murdered Russian czar Nicholas II arrived in New York City. Though she fought for recognition of that identity for more than 50 years, it was never verified.

• On Feb. 7, 1974, viewers at a screening of the Mel Brooks Western spoof “Blazing Saddles” at the Pickwick Drive-In Theater in Burbank, California, enjoyed the film not from the expected comfort of their cars, but on horseback, in one of Hollywood’s most creative P.R. stunts.

• On Feb. 8, 1986, Spud Webb, one of the shortest players in professional basketball history at 5-foot-7, scored a win over his Atlanta Hawks teammate, the 6-foot-8 Dominique Wilkins, in the NBA slam dunk contest.

• On Feb. 9, 1864, Union General George Armstrong Custer married Elizabeth “Libbie” Bacon in Monroe, Michigan, while he was on leave. A passionate defender of her husband’s reputation after his death at the Battle of the Little Bighorn in 1876, her efforts helped establish Custer as an American hero.

• Lunchbox tip: Assemble your sandwich the night before (without veggies). Wrap in waxed paper and freeze. Add veggies and a condiment packet in a separate bag. Your sandwich will thaw by lunchtime and will stay cold!

• “Plant banana skins in your garden, just below the surface. They rot quickly and provide nutrients for growing plants.” — A.R. in Ohio

• “My girls get a little crazy with clothes shopping — they want everything! Before we go, we pull out all the clothes they have and assess their needs. We keep a count of shirts, skirts, shorts and pants, so we don’t overbuy and have too many. They also make outfits out of what they have, so we can see if anything needs to be bought for that purpose. And undergarments and socks are replenished first, so they get included in the budget!” — S.S. in South Carolina

• “Always keep two needles threaded, one with black and one with white. When you have a rip, a button comes off or a hem comes out of your clothes, and you are in a hurry, you can use one of these for a quick repair.” — J.R. in Virginia

• When you get near the end of a roll of paper towels, save it to put in your car. Put together a kit to keep in the car with the following items: a small bottle of Windex or other cleaner, a squeeze bottle of water, some wet wipes and the short roll of paper towels. You will always be ready for a quick on-theroad cleanup.

• To kick the itch from bug bites, make a mixture of half lime juice and half water. Apply to bug bite on a soaked cotton ball.

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

By Lucie Winborne

• Cheerleading was once an exclusively male sport, and the first cheers, copied from military chants, began at Princeton University around the Civil War era.

• Porsche’s first car, in 1898, was electric.

• Motorola has developed an FDAapproved “edible password pill” which, once digested, is activated by the acid in your stomach and emits an 18-bit signal that is strong enough to communicate with and unlock all your devices.

• On Mars, no resource can be wasted — not even our bodily waste. Urine will be recycled into drinking water and feces into fertilizer.

• Scientists can deduce information about a person’s lifestyle, including their grooming products, food and medications, from the chemicals found on the surface of their mobile phone.

• The 1,400-page novel “War and Peace” was copied around seven times by Leo Tolstoy’s wife, Sophia, by hand. Now, that’s love!

• U.S. Marine John Kelly was the last person to be awarded two Medals of Honor. He ran 100 yards in advance of the front line and attacked an enemy machine gun nest, killed the gunner with a grenade, shot another man with his pistol, and returned with eight prisoners. He was 19.

• The only difference between a fog and a mist comes down to visibility: If you can’t see farther than 100 meters, you’re in a fog.

• As the planet heats up, flowers are emitting less scent.

• George Washington had one remaining tooth in his mouth when he was sworn in as the first American president in 1789.

• The sound of a Star Wars lightsaber was created by pairing the sound of an idle film projector and the buzz from an old TV set.

***

Thought for the Day: “Nobody made a greater mistake than he who did nothing because he could do only a little.” — Edmund Burke

PALC: Let it snow, we’ve got a great place to go!

By Ron Beeber

The Oceana Echo Volunteer Contributor

The Pentwater Artisan Learning Center is a great place for West Michigan folks to create things and socialize any time of year, but especially during winter months when it’s harder to stay connected with others. In recent weeks, sewing and stained glass projects were among the many being worked on by local artisans.

Memberships -- for a $150 annual fee -are from July 1 to June 30.They are prorated in the first year, depending on which month one joins. Membership includes use of the 11,000-square-foot workspace for metal and woodworking, painting, pottery, glass crafts, weaving, basket making, and sewing. Some

supplies are provided, but members are encouraged to incorporate their own materials into their projects. While there are no formal classes, PALC members are eager to mentor each other.

To join, just come in during business hours (Tues. - Sat., between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m.) and fill out some paperwork. Bring a check or cash as credit cards are

not accepted. The PALC is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit and welcomes donations, bequeaths, endowments and corporate matching gifts. For more information, call 231.869.5323.

On Jan. 26, over 100 people participated in the Oceana Cross Country Ski Association’s Ski Free Sunday event at the Crystal Valley Ski Trail in the Manistee National Forest. Many families took advantage of being able to use ski equipment for adults and children free of charge. The next and final event will be on Sunday, Feb. 9 from 1-4 p.m., contingent upon the weather. Further details can be found on Facebook at Oceana Cross Country Ski or at www.oceanaski.org.

Oceana County

Animal Shelter

Oscar is a super sweet boy who has successfully been treated for eye infections. He is approximately four years old and weighs 55 pounds. This Pit mix boy is full of personality, active, but easy to walk on a leash. If you’re looking for a dog who will cuddle up next to you on the couch, Oscar is the one for you. If interested, please call shelter at 231-861-5395

Oscar is available for adoption from the Oceana County Animal Shelter. If interested, please call the shelter at 231861-5395. The adoption fee for cats is $35, and you receive certificates for $25 towards spay/neuter and $10 towards rabies if not already done. The adoption fee for dogs is $95 and you will receive a $50 certificate good for spay/neuter, if needed. Every dog should have an ID tag. L.A.S.S.I. provides free dog ID tags to all Oceana County residents. To request tags, send a text to 231730-3906. Free tags are also available at the Oceana County Animal Shelter.

Animal Friends

Hello, we’re Romeo and Puck. We’re young, a bit shy, but oh so sweet. We love quiet moments, soft whispers, and gentle strokes. We’re best friends, inseparable really - we comfort each other in this big, bustling world. Our ideal home would be a tranquil haven where we can bask in the calm and be the center of your world. We promise to reward your love with our soothing purrs and warm companionship. Adopting us would mean you’re not just getting a pet, but a family. Because two hearts, they say, are better than one. If you would like to adopt Romeo and Puck, please fill out an application through the OCAF Facebook page: Oceana County Animal Friends or online at: oceanacountyanimalfriends. wordpress.com

Ruby Mullen wins K of C local Spelling Bee

Ruby Mullen took first place in the local Level I (grades 4, 5 and 6) Knights of Columbus Spelling Bee, Saturday, Jan. 25. Ruby spelled 41 words correctly, and the winning word was “veteran.”Pictured, above from left is Ruby’s father Andrew Mullen, Ruby (grade 6), and contest coordinators Nathan Kroon and Kevin Kludy. Ruby moves on to the regional Spelling Bee, Saturday, Feb. 8 at St. Gregory’s Catholic Church in Hart. • Contributed Photo

JOB POSTING

VILLAGE OF SHELBY DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS DPW LABORER (PARK MAINTENANCE)

The Village of Shelby is seeking applicants for a full-time DPW Park Maintenance Laborer position within its Department of Public Works. The selected applicant will perform a wide range of semi-skilled labor and equipment operations in support of the Department of Public Works operations. The person’s focus will be on the maintenance, repair and construction of Village parks, and include activity involving Village streets, buildings, vehicles, equipment, and water and sewer infrastructure as needed. Depending on workload, this person may operate equipment ranging from a lawn mower to a pickup with a plow.

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

The ideal candidate will be able to operate vehicles of various sizes and weights in the loading, hauling and unloading of equipment; operate construction or power equipment; provide skilled maintenance and repair tasks; basic maintenance of DPW machinery; provide snow and ice removal; mow, trim, and fertilize grass, prune and spray trees and shrubs; and, provide other DPW related work as required. The salary range is $36,704 to $44,761.00 depending on qualifications. Additional benefits include health insurance, defined contribution match for retirement, paid time off, and eleven (11) observed paid holidays.

Applicants should submit a completed application and resume to: Village Clerk Village of Shelby 218 N. Michigan Ave. Shelby, MI 49455

Or email: clerk@shelbyvillage.com For questions, contact Village Hall at (231) 861-4400. Applications must be submitted by no later than February 7, 2025, at 4:30 PM. THE VILLAGE OF SHELBY IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER.

Meet Romeo & Puck

Beth Russell

Marsha LaHaye and Kris Bluhm Roger Wills

Judy Harris

Contributed Photo

Contributed Photos

Over 100 attend Ski Free Sunday in Crystal Valley

Hart Wrestlers best Shelby in first-ever assembly dual

By: Brendan Samuels

The Oceana Echo Sports Editor

HART – The scene was a bit different in Hart’s gym Friday, Jan. 24 as the Pirates’ wrestling program hosted its first ever assembly-style dual with rival Shelby.

The stands were packed with students – who had been let out of class to attend in the middle of the school day – and parents alike. Hart pumped up the fanfare by dimming the lights, adding a spotlight over the center of the mat and introducing each weight class with a meeting in the center of the mat between the competitors.

All those elements came second to Hart’s domination over Shelby, claiming a 70-12 victory and making it look relatively easy.

Hart won in all but two weight classes, taking 11 wins by pin and another two by technical fall.

Starting at the 106-pound weight class, Hart’s Jordan Thies won by fall over Shelby’s Antonio Cano. Aiden Scha-

ner (113 lbs.) and Kole Thomas (120 lbs.) followed that up with consecutive 15-0 victories over their opponents, scoring five points each for victory by technical fall.

That started a string of four straight victories via pins as Caden VanGelderen (126 lbs.), Julian Vazquez (132 lbs.), Ty Thomas (138 lbs.) and Logan Jorissen (144 lbs.) notched six points each.

Shelby found a break in the Pirates’ lineup where they had favorable matchups, winning two matches back-toback at the 150 lb. and 157 lb. weight classes. Brody Fessenden was the first to win his match, pinning Hart’s Emmanuel Ortega, while Jaylin Henderson followed up with a pin over Kai Miller to grab the Tigers’ only points of the day.

Haegan Hansen (165 lbs.), Alex Hicks (190 lbs.), Abdel Lopez (215 lbs.) and Adrian Lara (285 lbs.) all scored wins via pin after that point. Emmanuel Hertzler also added points for the Pirates, taking a victory via forfeit.

Pentwater boys continue to scale the WMD mountain, score signature win over Baldwin

By: Brendan Samuels The Oceana Echo Sports Editor

PENTWATER – It’s been a slow climb to the top for Ashley Lubera and Pentwater’s boys basketball program. The summit of success hasn’t been eclipsed yet; the Falcons however, were feeling pretty good planting their flag after a 65-63 win over Baldwin Saturday, Jan. 25 – officially marking a regular season sweep of the Panthers.

The rivalry between Pentwater and Baldwin is storied, but one need only dive into the history books from the past five years to see why.

In 2021, when the majority of the Falcons’ key pieces on the current roster started their freshman year, Baldwin was in the midst of its ascension in the West Michigan D League (WMD) ranks. With former Head Coach JJ Eads at the helm and coming off a 16-6 season in 2020-21 that left them third in the league, Baldwin marched to a second place finish in 2021-22 before claiming consecutive conference titles in 2022-23 and 2023-24.

Pentwater on the other hand, had just claimed the WMD league title in 2019-20 before suffering a falloff that had them in sixth and fifth place the next two years. Last year signalled the start of something special for the Falcons though. Several defining victories that season had them set for a pair of marquee matchups with the Panthers. Unfortunately, they weren’t able to claim either meeting – something that’s been a common occurrence until now.

“It’s magical when we play (Baldwin). It’s always a great game year in and year out, even when JJ (Eads) was coaching,” Lubera said. “I think our guys have

just matured through a lot of negative and positive experiences playing Baldwin, but both teams show up.”

Heading into this season. Baldwin had owned a 10-0 record against the Panthers over the last five years. That included two postseason games that knocked the Falcons out of contention for hardware. Then, in Pentwater’s third game of this season, the Falcons started their journey toward the top of the WMD, resetting the Panthers’ streak with a 63-50 contest on the road in Baldwin.

That gave them all the confidence they needed when the Panthers rolled into the Falcons’ home gym on Saturday.

Having to play a weekend game is never ideal, particularly when the team hadn’t been able to play the week prior due to inclement weather. Lubera and her squad didn’t blink, knowing that a season sweep would be a large moral victory, as well as a huge boost in the standings.

“(Baldwin) missed just as much as we did. We came in early today and I think that mattered,” Lubera said. “We got a little practice in yesterday and just kept walking through. It comes down to every possession against these teams and that’s the joy of the game. You don’t know who’s going to be the victor every game we play each other.

“With Marion beating Baldwin a couple of nights ago, we knew that if we lost tonight and we still had to play Bear Lake and Marion again, that could create a huge problem for us. This was our focus right now. One day at a time. This game was big for us to try and win a conference.”

The early minutes of Saturday’s meeting didn’t unfold in a favorable way for the Falcons. Baldwin

opened the night on a 9-2 run as Pentwater struggled to guard the explosiveness of Panther junior guard Chance Dockery.

Pentwater senior Kaleb Brown found the Falcons’ lone points on that run and managed to knock in a three point shot that kick started the offense. Trailing 12-5 in the first, the Falcons went on a string of 14 unanswered points to close out the quarter. Mikey Carlson, Trey Johnson and Jonny Arnouts were responsible for all of those points, giving the Falcons their first lead at 19-12.

Baldwin started the second quarter much like the first, roaring out to a 9-2 start and knotting things up at 21-21. A series of offensive runs for both teams kept things even and closed out the first half with a 33-33 stalemate.

Dockery powered Baldwin with 13 points to lead all scorers in the first half, while Pentwater opted for its usual tactic of spreading the ball around. Johnson, Brown, Arnouts and Carlson all had seven points or more through two quarters, with Johnson leading the way with nine.

One of the largest storylines for Pentwater in the second half was the forced usage of depth players in the post. Carlson got into some foul trouble that limited his minutes down the stretch, while Nathan Macher – who usually spells him – missed a significant amount of time after landing awkwardly on his left ankle.

That meant junior Abram Kieda had to step up and play more minutes while smaller guys were pushed to make a great impact on the boards.

“It was a team effort tonight with the foul trouble and injuries.

HART • HESPERIA • PENTWATER • SHELBY • WALKERVILLE

(Above, top) Hart’s Kole Thomas attempts to work Shelby’s Juan Brito into a pin. (Above, middle) Hart students Kyle Greiner, Kaden Bond and Miguel Escamilla don singlets in Hart’s students section. (Above, bottom) Shelby’s Brody Fessenden fights off an attack by Hart’s Emmanuel Ortega. • Brendan Samuels/ECHO

Season Sweep

Abram (Kieda) had outstanding minutes tonight and he understood his role,” Lubera said. “He probably played two or three quarters tonight, which is a lot more than he has been. He did a great job down low and created a different presence. We were able to post him up on a weak player on Baldwin, and that gave us a couple buckets.”

The Falcons looked unstoppable in the third quarter. Arnouts, Carlson, Brown and Johnson combined for 13 unanswered points to start that period, pushing the Falcons out to their first double-digit lead of the night. Not to be outdone, Baldwin caught fire late in that same frame as sophomore Pierre Johnson carried the load, scoring all nine of the Panthers’ third quarter points.

With a comfortable lead, Pentwater headed into the fourth and final quarter with the score sitting at 50-41.

Comfortable quickly shifted to frantic for the Falcons in the fourth quarter. Baldwin regained the composure they showed in the first half and cut Pentwater’s lead to just a single point early in the final frame. Johnson, Kieda and Arnouts staved off the comeback the best they could, but the Panthers continued to tread water – despite trailing seven points late.

Baldwin struck a bit of fear into the Falcons’ gym in the final minutes after senior Louie Jackson knocked down three pointers on three consecutive possessions for the Panthers. The last of those buckets cut the deficit to two points and allowed Baldwin to tie the game at 61-61 on their next possession.

“We tried to just keep it positive with each other,” Lubera said. “There were moments of frustration, but we tried to just focus on playing each quarter, using our timeouts effectively and controlling our tempo most of all. Baldwin gets you in this frenzy and we can play with that frenzy at times, and at other times…

“Louie Jackson stepped up and hit three threes and (Baldwin) has four guys out there that can really shoot the ball or drive the lane. We did a great job defensively and a much better job rebounding in the second half after they ate us alive in the first.”

Macher re-entered the game in the fourth quarter after icing his ankle and applying a brace. His presence proved critical as he knocked down a free throw that gave the lead back to Pentwater.

Baldwin responded by converting on a layup the other way, but fouls ultimately did the Panthers in. Brown and Johnson each earned trips to the free throw line in the final minute, sealing the game and giving the Falcons a sea-

continued from page 10

son-defining victory.

In the end, it was Johnson who led the Falcons in scoring with 18 points to go along with three rebounds and three steals. Arnouts had a fantastic game, scoring 16 and dishing out eight assists while Carlson posted a double-double with 13 points and 11 rebounds.

Brown had 13 points as well, but it was his tenacity on defense and relentless pressure on rebounds (five) that was key in the victory.

“(Brown) is outstanding. I give him the hardest defensive job every day and he steps up to that,” Lubera said. “We know statistically there’s not a lot of rewards for that except wins, and if he can continue to be that muscle for us, the sky’s the limit.”

Pentwater moved to 12-2 overall with the win and maintained their hold on the WMD at 7-1. The Falcons will continue to run the gauntlet of top teams in the conference as they host Marion (9-4, 4-2 WMD) for homecoming Friday, Jan. 31 at 6 p.m.

The Eagles bested the Falcons in their first meeting, stealing a 57-55 victory. Pentwater also has Bear Lake (85, 6-2 WMD) next week. The Lakers are currently sitting in second in the WMD ranks behind Pentwater.

Note for Pentwater fans: The Pentwater JV boys basketball team has cancelled the remainder of their season. Varsity games may be subject to time change for the remainder of the year.

Hart boys sweep Shelby with dominant outing

By: Brendan Samuels The Oceana Echo Sports Editor

HART – The final regular season installment of the Hart-Shelby boys basketball rivalry fell in favor of the Pirates as they rolled to a 72-33 victory Tuesday, Jan. 28.

The night started off with a tightly contested first quarter that ended with the Pirates owning a 17-11 lead. Makes from the floor weren’t easy to come by, but free throws were, as a frenzy of fouls led to 19 attempts from the line for both teams combined.

Hart was the beneficiary of 13 of those attempts, getting to the line early and often as they used a clear size advantage to bully Shelby on drives to the hoop. That created foul trouble for the Tigers, sending Hart to the bonus in the first quarter and forcing several key pieces to the bench.

“We know we have to play more physically against a bigger team like Hart, because we’re not a big team. We’re small,” Shelby Head Coach Rick Zoulek said. “We’ve got to fight like crazy just to try and hang in there. We get a few fouls early and then we have to rotate new guys in and that affects us offensively.”

Rotating in those new guys – paired with the absence of Trevor Weiss due to illness – led Shelby’s offense to completely stall in the second quarter. The Tigers added just one point to their total over that eight minute stretch, allowing Hart to build an insurmountable lead by halftime.

The Pirates scored 22 unanswered points in the second quarter before Shelby found the board on a free throw from junior Eli Kelley. Another make to end the quarter for Hart had them sitting pretty with a 41-12 lead.

“In a rivalry game, you feel like you’re going to get the other team’s best shot. Under Rick (Zoulek) they’re gonna play hard and smart,” Hart Head Coach Nick Bronsema said. “It wasn’t surprising (that the game was close early). I was happy that we could calm down a bit and focus on each other.”

Hart continued to put the pedal to the floor in the third quarter, getting contributions from Miguel Escamilla, Kolton Rockwell, Caleb Ackley and Avery Guikema. Guikema stepped in at different points to help keep the starters fresh, lending extra pressure on the defensive side and scoring four points in the final minute of the third period.

“We’ve got guys that are working really hard offensively. Avery (Guikema) is aggressive and is now settling in of-

Pink Out

fensively and becoming a much better player,” Bronsema said.

Leading by more than 30 points at the start of the fourth quarter, plenty of Pirates got a chance to get involved. Guikema was joined by the likes of Bryce Vander Kodde, Brendan Hiddema and Brody Clark as bench players that made an impact late.

After reaching a 40 point lead in the fourth quarter, the running clock was implemented, spelling an early end to the night for both teams.

The Pirates were led on the night by Rockwell who had a team-high 19 points. Ackley nearly snagged a double-double in limited minutes, scoring 13 points and adding nine rebounds and four blocks as well. Escamilla stuffed the stat sheet with 11 points, five rebounds, three assists and three steals while Ty Schlukebir tied Ackley for the lead in rebounds with nine.

“(Rockwell) has been looking to score early on. He’s a neat kid that’s unselfish, almost to the point where you wish he’d be a little more selfish,” Bronsema said. “He really enjoys the game and he’s a team player. He’s gotten more assertive and that’s good news for us.”

Freshman Leighton Belasco was the lead man for Shelby, scoring 11 points along with four rebounds. Griffin Olmstead, Evan Waller and Nathan Miller each scored six points.

Hart (9-6, 5-2 WMC Rivers) kept themselves in a tie for second in the conference with Mason County Central with the win. Both the Pirates and Spartans trail unbeaten North Muskegon (13-0, 7-0 WMC Rivers). The Pirates will host the Norsemen tonight (Friday, Jan. 31) at 7 p.m.

Shelby fell to 2-13 overall with the loss and now sit in fifth place in the conference with a 2-6 record.

Hesperia’s wrestling team hosted its 16th annual Pink Out event, raising money for local cancer patients and survivors. Shelby, Fremont and Holton were all in attendance for the quad meet, with Hesperia taking on the Tigers and the Red Devils. Shelby took down Hesperia in the first matchup of the night, winning by a final point total of 42-33. The Panthers had another close fight with Holton next, but ultimately fell 46-35. Hesperia junior Noah Walker (above, center) earned his 100th career win with a pin of Shelby’s Colin Fenton. • Brendan Samuels/ECHO

Hart freshman Kolton Rockwell goes up to the hoop on a drive. Rockwell led Hart with 19 points in a 72-33 win over Shelby Tuesday, Jan. 28. • Brendan Samuels/ECHO

(Above, top) Pentwater senior Jonny Arnouts elevates on a floater near the free throw line. (Above, bottom) Pentwater senior Nathan Macher prepares to shoot a free throw. • Brendan Samuels/ECHO

Reflections of our community

White Lake Mirror White Lake Mirror

YOUR LOCALLY OWNED AND OPERATED NONPROFIT NEWS SOURCE

YOUR LOCALLY OWNED AND OPERATED NONPROFIT NEWS SOURCE Reflections

Montague's Chris Stark "gets busy living"

Told she had 2-5 years left to live 8 years ago, Stark battles breast cancer with pride

By Madison Lajewski

Lajewski

By Madison Lajewski

Lake Mirror Writer

White Lake Mirror Writer

White Lake native Christina Stark was only 30 years old when she was first diagnosed with stage two breast cancer. She chose to tackle it with chemotherapy, but when she was 39, it returned as metastatic, or stage four, breast cancer. She was told she only had two to five years left to live.

That was eight years ago, and although her disease is still present, she remains optimistic and lives life day by day.

“My diagnosis has taught me a ton,” Stark said. “It’s taught me to not take any days for granted, to live in the moment, to be prepared for the unexpected. It’s also taught me how to slow down and listen to my body. It’s definitely taught me to appreciate more simple things, just daily activities, like going for a walk.”

Chris enjoys living life on the water. She loves her beach days, boat rides, spending time with friends and family, traveling, reading, camping and staying active.

Chris and her family are members of the Evangelical Covenant Church in Whitehall. She finds comfort in her faith and the community she has surrounded herself with there. She has surrounded herself with family and quality friends who help her in many different ways.

“I certainly couldn’t get through this as easily without that (friends and family)," said Stark. “Having a huge

support group, knowing that I can call anybody any time we need anything or any time I need a ride to my treatments, is huge. It’s really reassuring to us. We have a large prayer community and that definitely lifts us. Having a huge support group is so helpful emotionally and physically. I have friends that push me. I’m going for a walk today at the Viking Athletic Center. I wouldn’t have done that if it weren’t for my friends encouraging me. There are so many ways they support me, from bringing meals to mailing supportive cards and encouraging me to get moving."

“God is good every day and he gives me strength I need to get through these times,” Chris said in a blog post Oct. 1, 2023 after completing a clinical trial chemo that didn’t give her the results she and her family were hoping for. “We continue to ask for prayers that the treatments do their jobs, and for my husband and kids; these changes are never easy on them.”

After receiving her diagnosis, Chris found creating a blog was a good way to get updates to people in her life and community that she doesn’t necessarily have the time to talk to regularly. Her blog, “Dancing in the Rain,” was inspired by a saying and one of the mottos she now lives by.

“I certainly couldn’t get through this as easily without that (friends and family)," said Stark. “Having a huge

Chris and her family are members of the Evangelical Covenant Church comfort in faith and the community she has surrounded herself with there. She has surrounded herself with family and her in through (friends family)," said Stark. “Having a huge

“For those who know me well, you know I have two mottos that I live by,” said Stark. “One is to ‘get busy living’ and the other is, ‘Life isn’t about waiting for the storm to pass, it is about learning to dance in the rain.’”

“For those who know me well, you know I have two mottos that I live by,” Stark. “One to ‘get busy living’ the other is, ‘Life isn’t about waiting for the storm to pass, it is about learning to dance in the rain.’”

Something that catches the attention of many people who come across

Chris

Whitehall mayor, council clash over appointments

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

WHITEHALL — Friction between Whitehall mayor Steven Salter and members of the city council continued to be palpable during Tuesday's regular council meeting, as the mayoral appointments to boards and commissions became the subject of occasionally heated debate.

WHITEHALL — Friction between and members of the city council continued to be palpable during Tuesday's regappointments to boards and commisbecame of ally heated debate.

Some, though not all, of Salter's recommended appointments were approved, and council members repeatedly questioned why some of their number, most notably Debi Hillebrand, Tom Ziemer and Scott Brown, were being, as Ziemer put it, "snubbed" for boards and commissions on which they were interested in serving.

Some, though not all, of Salter's approved, and council members repeatedly questioned why some of their number, most notably Debi Hillebrand, Tom Ziemer and Scott Brown, were being, as Ziemer put it, "snubbed" for boards and commissions on which they were interested in serving.

Discussion on why Hillebrand, who preceded Salter as mayor before returning to the city council in 2023, was not being appointed to the Brownfield Redevelopment Authority grew the most fractious. After the council appointed two mayoral recommenda-

tions - CJ Van Wieren (to replace the retired Jerry McDowell) and Erin Peyer (whose term was renewed)the council began questioning why Hillebrand, who was one of several other people to submit letters of interest, was not appointed.

tions - Van Wie(to replace the retired Jerry McDowell) and Erin term was renewed)the began questioning why Hillebrand, who was one of several other people to submit of was not appointed.

every effort to be given to have each city council member serving on a board or commission if possible. At this, Cabala and fellow council member Steve Sikkenga each said they'd like Salter to explain why Hillebrand was not nominated. Salter declined, and a disgruntled audience member then chimed in, "Then why are you the mayor?"

tion, the council voted 6-1 (Salter dissenting) to officially recommend Hillebrand's appointment to the brownfield authority.

Council member Tanya Cabala noted the lack of appointments being considered for Hillebrand, Ziemer and Brown and called it "a black mark on the city" that each council member with interest in serving on a committee was not being allowed to do so. (Per the city charter, the mayor, and not the council, retains the ability to nominate candidates for most boards and commissions.)

Council member Tanya Cabala noted the lack of appointments being considered for Hillebrand, Ziemer and Brown called it "a black mark on the city" that each council member with interest in serving on a committee allowed to do so. (Per the city charter, the mayor, and not the council, retains the ability to nominate candidates for most boards and commissions.)

Ziemer added that city rules call for

Hillebrand then spoke, saying she didn't need to be on a board or commission to serve the community, and as far as she's concerned as long as qualified and interested people are on each board or commission, she's pleased. She did add, though, that the mayor's refusal to nominate certain council members "does demonstrate the mayor's self-serving abuse of his position," continuing that in her view, it follows a pattern of Salter's refusal to work together with people he disagrees with.

Brown then concurred to each of Hillebrand's points, and while it has no power to make the actual nomina-

Later in the meeting, the council voted 6-1, with Salter again dissenting, to appoint Hillebrand to the Marina Advisory Committee; the city council does have the ability to nominate candidates to that committee. The mayor had recommended Ziemer for that position, but Ziemer stated he'd rather be on the Tax Increment Finance Authority, Local Development Finance Authority or planning commission and resented not being chosen for any of them.

"Join the club," Brown said in response.

The topic again came up when the council voted in favor of Arts Council of White Lake-Nuveen Center director Erin Peyer and Van Wieren to be on the

Chris Stark sat on this rock at Yosemite National Park during a trip there in 2021. She said, "it was so peaceful and quiet, I could have sat there for hours soaking in the beauty of the mountains." • Courtesy Photo

Stark continued on page 2 City council continued on page 2

White

Chris Stark (second from right) with her family. From left are daughter-in-law Brooke, son Bryce, husband Jeff, Chris and daughter Brooke. • Courtesy Photo

Salter

Chris Stark continued on page 2

Chris Stark (second from right) with her family. From left are daughter-in-law Brooke, son Bryce, husband Jeff, Chris and daughter Brooke. • Courtesy Photo

Salter

Chris Stark continued on page 2

City council continued on page 2

Madison

White Lake Mirror Writer

Chris Stark (second from right) with her family. From left are daughter-in-law Brooke, son Bryce, husband Jeff, Chris and daughter Brooke. • Courtesy Photo

Salter

Montague man dies in Hancock St. fire

A Montague man died early Thursday morning, Jan. 23, in a house fire on Hancock Street, according to multiple local news reports. The Montague Fire District announced the fire in a press release that afternoon.

According to the fire district, first responders were dispatched to the blaze after a passerby reported it. Within five minutes, personnel were on scene, though the home was already engulfed in flames. The victim, who reportedly was in his mid-60s, was located by firefighters and transferred to the White Lake Ambulance Authority.

"Despite extremely cold temperatures, the crews worked diligently to extinguish the fire and perform a thorough overhaul

of the scene," the fire district said in the release.

White Lake Fire Authority was one of several fire departments to assist on the scene; the district also credited Blue Lake, Dalton and Grant Township's departments for their aid, as well as the county fire investigation team and sheriff's office, Montague Police Department and Muskegon Central Dispatch.

The department extinguished the fire later that morning but cleanup continued until about 1:30 p.m.

"Our heartfelt thoughts are with the family affected by this devastating event," the department said in the release.

Toy gun sends Whitehall schools into lockdown

Whitehall District Schools was placed into lockdown Wednesday afternoon after a student notified the Whitehall School Resource Officer that another student may be in possession of a handgun; however, it turned out to be a toy replica.

After being notified at approximately 1:50 p.m., the SRO immediately contacted other on-duty Whitehall offi-

cers who responded to the school. The Montague Police SRO also responded to assist. A lockdown was established and when officers arrived, a sweep of the building was done with staff as the SRO attempted to locate the student.

The student was located in a classroom and the replica gun was recovered. The preliminary investigation did not indicate any other students were

City council

TIFA board (the vote was 6-1, with Cabala dissenting). Brown noted while he believes Peyer is qualified for each of the four committees she is now on, it made no sense to him why she was on four while council members with interest were not being appointed to any.

The council unanimously approved the mayor's recommendation of White Lake Fire Authority Sergeant Dan

Chris Stark

Bowyer to the planning commission. However, the council wanted Tamara Horne, a steering committee member on the White Lake Area Climate Action Council, as well as Ziemer, Brown and Hillebrand to be considered for spots. The council voted 6-1 (Salter dissented) to recommend all four be appointed, though Salter gave no sign he would choose to do so.

involved. The student was secured in the SRO’s office as the rest of the students were released for the day.

The Whitehall Police Department is continuing their investigation into the incident and said it will not release any more information on the student involved at this time due to the student being a juvenile.

In a statement, superintendent CJ

Van Wieren praised the student who came forward with the information and noted that it helped the district respond as it needed to.

"We are grateful for the quick response of our staff and local law enforcement in ensuring a safe resolution," Van Wieren said in the statement.

continued from page 1

Several other appointments were made without incident.

Also during the meeting, it was announced that the new Playhouse sustainability committee will have its first meeting Feb. 13 at 4 p.m. Sikkenga questioned why the committee, which he said has 10 people on it, is so large, but said he hopes it is able to come up with solutions that will help Whitehall taxpayers.

Salter stated he attended the Playhouse's Sip N Soup fundraising event Saturday, Jan. 25 and was pleased with the turnout, noting over $4,000 was raised. continued from page 1

Stark’s social media pages is the hashtag “get busy living"; it is attached to almost all of her most recent posts.

“A friend of mine who’s originally from Whitehall was diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer just a few months before I was,” Stark said. “Early in our diagnoses, she lived in Kentucky and she mailed me a shirt that said ‘get busy living.’ It was really fitting for where we were both at in our lives. I started hashtagging it in all of my social media posts. So many people wait for retirement to do all the things they want to do, and then don’t get to do them because they don’t live long enough to retire. Having stage four breast cancer teaches you that that day may never come for me, so I’m going to get busy living now.”

Since her diagnosis, Stark has lived out that ethos.

These items included traveling to different countries, doing different fun activities and interestingly, getting a new part-time job that she had always wanted to try - bartending. Stark start-

“When I was diagnosed with a terminal illness, I instantly went into survival mode,” said Stark. “I wanted to live every moment as meaningfully as I could. I made my bucket list and immediately started checking items off of it.”

ed tending bar at North Grove Brewers and still does today. She is known by her patrons for her bubbly personality and kind spirit. She said that her boss and coworkers at the brewery have become a second family to her.

“We learn so much about ourselves when we face trying times,” Stark said. “Without a doubt, I

would be in a dark place if I didn't have Jesus in my life. I have learned to live for today, this moment, to make it count. To be kind, you never know the battle someone else is facing. To do the things that make you happy and bring you joy, and to get busy living!”

Montague firefighters battle a blaze at a Hancock Street home early Thursday morning, Jan. 23. A man died in the fire, which crews were eventually able to extinguish. • Courtesy Photo

Saturday, Feb. 1

St. Peter’s Episcopal Church in Montague hosts its free monthly community breakfast, 9-10:30 a.m.

All are welcome for great food and fellowship.

Free clothing swap @ North Grove Brewers, 12-5 p.m. Bring your unwanted clothes and accessories. Clothes must be sorted by size and

Echoes of History: A history of Double JJ (Part 1) Community Calendar

By Barbara Bedau Brow Volunteer Contributor

In 1914 George and Clara (nee Storm) Stauch left their home in Chicago with their three children, Roma, George and Robert, and settled on 80 acres of farmland in West Michigan. The farm included a brick home built by the Kennedy family in 1894. The land also had a large, spring fed lake called Big Wildcat Lake.

In 1930, daughter Roma was employed as a teacher at a private school for girls. She was first to use the lake setting and surrounding woods at her father’s farm commercially. She presented a summer camping experience at Wildcat Lake to her students, hoping to get their parents’ approval. Roma would be the counselor and instruct 8- to 12-year-olds in outdoor camping, crafts, swimming, drama, dancing, and sports, including horseback riding. Her project got parental approval, and her first year brought 23 girls to her camp. The camp was named “Cedar Shores” because of the hundreds of white cedar trees surrounding the lake.

The Depression of the early thirties cut short Roma’s efforts and the Cedar Shores experience faded into history.

The beauty of the lake and ease of camping was well known in the community, and during the summer of 1933 the family invited local church congregations to send their children to the farm for a supervised, well-counseled summer vacation. This was the Cedar Shores experience two years later, but with kids. To honor their young guests the family renamed

variety (shirts, pants, dresses, etc.) All items not claimed will be donated to local charities.

Karaoke contest @ Jimmy'z Pub, 7:30 p.m. Sign up with your three songs and compete for a $200 cash prize.

Tuesday, Feb. 4

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

the farm “The Jack and Jill Ranch”. Although the kids’ ranch remained only two years (followed by a more grandiose camping experience) the name Jack and Jill Ranch was a success beyond imagination, and the property was called by that name until the mid-1970s when the owners decided to change the name to the Double JJ Ranch Resort, and in 2009 to the Double JJ Resort.

In the late 1930s and early 1940s, dude ranches began to spring up in the Michigan landscape (minus the mountains, canyons and high desert plains). A few places bearing the moniker “ranch” – such as the Rainbow Ranch in New Era, which opened in 1949 – offered horseback riding, but not a complete ranch vacation. In 1954, 7,755 Michiganders checked into bunkhouses at six dude ranches located in the northern part of the state. Besides horseback riding, ranches might have offered squaredance hoedowns, hayrides, cookouts, archery, fishing, canoeing, swimming and water-skiing. Staff often doubled as teachers and entertainers.

The dude ranches of the American West were mostly working ranches, where cattle were raised as a business, but paying guests could learn to ride horseback, participate in the required daily chores and socialize with real cowboys. In the old days a “dude” was a tenderfoot who came West and tried to emulate a cowboy in dress and manner. In mid-America, the term referred to a “city feller” who was a guest on a dude ranch. A female dude was a “dudette”.

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

Wednesday, Feb. 5

Eric Michaels and Chris Kennedy perform @ Book Nook & Java Shop, 10:30 a.m.

Thursday, Feb. 6

Return of the Junk Journals @ MADL Montague branch, 4 p.m. If

you made a junk journal last fall, bring it into the library and add more stuff. If you didn't or don't have yours anymore, come in and make a new one. Registration required at madl. librarycalendar.com.

George Storm, the son (having changed his name from Stauch to Storm) was teaching psychology at the University of Miami, Florida in 1934. In addition to his classes in speech, public speaking, and psychology, he was head counselor to departing senior students. He learned that they enjoyed their vacations with people their own age. His concept of bringing people of the same age (18 to 35) together for an outdoor vacation and camping experience was a winner. He had just the place: The Jack and Jill Ranch. In 1936 George Storm, the visionary, took control and with family help embarked on his concept. He named the new venture The Jack and Jill Colony Camp - later changing it to the Jack and Jill Ranch. The Ranch grew and expanded as George bought neighboring farms and extended marketing.

The Jack and Jill Ranch welcomed its first guests in 1937. George K.

Storm, with his staff of 65 wranglers and 65 horses, could accommodate 175 people. A special feature was a steak dinner grilled by the wranglers. The ranch also hosted a greased pig chase, a spitting contest, a wood-chopping contest for the men and a rolling-pin throwing contest for the women.

Jack and Jill Ranch was the only vacation camp of its kind in the United States, according to an article in The Montague Observer in May 1942. It catered only to young men and women between the ages of 19 and 35 and positively did not take guests who belong to the “rocking chair” brigade. Every minute of the vacationer’s time was planned for them – if they wanted it that way. There were overnight canoe trips up White River, pack trips on horseback to Lake Michigan, instructions in archery and riflery, tennis, swimming in Big Wildcat Lake, hiking and on some evenings, dancing, stunt-nights, ping-pong and any of a dozen other forms of entertainment.

With 1942 being only the fifth year for the camp. it had achieved great popularity with vacationers coming from as far south as Alabama, as far west as Nebraska, and as far east as New York and New Jersey. The ranch opened six weeks earlier that year – on May 1. They had accommodations for 110 guests and 40 employees.

George was in business with his brother Robert during this time. He bought out his brother around 1948. Over the years, others owned the ranch and made their mark.

Library's next book sale is Feb. 15

By Virginia DeMumbrum Volunteer Contributor

The library’s next book sale is set for Saturday, Feb. 15. Sale hours are 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., but you’ll want to come early for the best selection. With prices set at $1 for paperbacks, $2 for hardcovers, and $5 for a whole bagful, the books disappear quickly!

This sale will be an extra-big one because we recently received a large donation of books in great condition from an estate in North Muskegon. Hundreds of cookbooks, gardening books, and popular fiction books were generously given to us, and we are happy to pass them on.

If you’d like to help the library have a good sale, please consider volunteering for an hour or two. You can

be part of the set-up crew the day before or work a shift at the sale. Sign-up sheets are available at the library, or call 231-894-9531 to volunteer. There’s still time to bring in book donations for the sale, too. We are always accepting clean, gently-used books, DVDs, and puzzles. Check out our donation guidelines on the website at wlclib. org/book-donations, and please call ahead if you have more than two boxes you’d like to drop off.

Take and Make Valentine Craft

Adults are invited to spread some love this February with our fun, easy mini Valentine Treat Boxes and Cards!

Starting Feb. 3, you can pick up a free craft kit at White Lake Community Library. Each kit contains supplies you can use to create cute mini cards and charming heart-themed boxes, perfect for filling with treats and gifting to loved ones or keeping as a sweet memento. No crafting experience required—just some scissors and a little tape or glue. Swing by the library to get this sweet craft kit while supplies last!

FUN FACT: According to History. com, the first Valentine in recorded history was sent in 1415. Charles, Duke of Orleans, wrote it to his wife while he was a political prisoner in the Tower of London. One of the lines in the poem was "I am already sick of love, My very gentle Valentine." Winter Break Fun @ Your Library

So much fun is planned for kids and families during the school break! We have a variety of activities for all ages planned throughout the week. (Just don’t plan to visit us Monday, Feb. 17 - we will be closed for staff training.) Tuesday, Feb. 18, starts with a rollicking Baby Time storytime at 9:30 a.m., followed by a Mario Kart tournament for kids ages 8-11 at 10:30 a.m. and a second tournament just for kids 12 and up at 1:30 p.m. Thursday night at 5:30, bring the whole gang for a family movie night at the library. Popcorn will be provided, but bring your own blankets and pillows! Come back Friday for an open play day at the library. This drop-in event is a great

way for little ones to socialize, learn, and have fun. The meeting room will transform into a fun-filled play space where you can enjoy toys, puzzles, games, and more. Stop in anytime between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. and stay as long as you'd like. Friday afternoon, teens and tweens can enjoy the weekly Afternoon Hang event at 2 p.m. featuring video games, snacks, and occasional crafts. All events are free. For more information, or to register for a Mario Kart tournament, visit wlclib. org/calendar.

DeMumbrum

The Storm family, original owners of the Double JJ Ranch. • Courtesy Photo

Lake Mirror Lake Mirror

NONPROFIT NEWS SOURCE community

Montague hangs on in defensive battle

Wildcats

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

the

WHITEHALL — Whitehall and Montague had another hard-nosed, defensive battle against one another Friday night, but the Wildcats overcame some missed free throws down the stretch and were able to hang on to earn a rivalry win on the road, 39-35.

The contest came down to the final seconds, but Braylyn Bultema was able to break free on an inbounds pass and scored a layup as time ran out, providing the final margin.

The Wildcats (8-3, 4-2 West Michigan Conference Lakes) shot only 9-of25 from the free throw line in the game and missed several attempts in the final minutes as Whitehall fouled to create extra possessions. However, Montague also got offensive rebounds on a few of those misses, with Amanda Cederquist and Bultema leading the way.

"I feel like our rebounding definitely helps us," Bultema said. "We work on it a lot at practice, so we get better at it. That's one of the things that me and Amanda definitely try to team up on, is those rebounds."

Rebounds were common early in the game, as neither team was able to generate quality looks at the basket. In fact, halfway through the first quarter, Montague led by a margin of just 2-1. The offense did pick up some from there, as Bultema (who had a game-

high 14 points) and Cederquist each connected on a basket in the span of a minute, and Whitehall responded with a pair of free throws by Janie Fagan and a three-pointer from Lexi Daggett. It was 10-6 Wildcats after one quarter.

The start to the second half was similarly slow, with Montague extending an 18-15 halftime lead with a 5-0 scoring run that took nearly five minutes. Montague coach Jess DeBruin said it's likely both team's offensive games were affected by the three consecutive snow days that led into Friday.

"The snow days didn't help us with only having one practice in between (games), but they had the same situation," DeBruin said. "It's just better ball movement and moving around. It's the same thing with free throws. We're

working on our outside shots."

Whitehall (8-5, 3-4 WMC Lakes) struggled to get much offense going in the game and turned it over too often, which has been a running theme this season. If something did work in Whitehall's favor, it was that many of the giveaways were dead-ball turnovers, so Montague was unable to get on the break the other way.

"We've cleaned up some of our turnovers, but continue to struggle to consistently take care of the ball at times," Whitehall coach Brian Milliron said. "Getting a defensive rebound in the last two minutes was also a chore tonight, but I thought overall we were much improved compared to the first time we played Montague."

The Vikings stayed within striking distance of Montague throughout the second half; the 'Cats led by as many as nine points, but couldn't pull away. After Montague kept possession of the ball by rebounding its own free throw misses in much of the final two minutes, Whitehall was finally able to gain possession and got within two points, 37-35, on a putback by Clare Westerlund with 3.8 seconds to play. That score gave Westerlund a team-best 12 points.

However, Bultema went deep on the inbounds pass, caught it in stride and cemented the win.

Vikings' depth, energy overpower Montague

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

WHITEHALL — Montague entered Friday's battle with rival Whitehall with a plan and great energy, especially on defense, and held down Whitehall's explosive offense much of the first quarter. However, the Vikings were simply too good to allow that strategy to sustain, and they caught fire in the second quarter and never looked back, routing the Wildcats 72-28 to retain the Bridge trophy.

The score was only 4-3 in Whitehall's favor late in the first quarter before Hunter Osborne scored, followed immediately by a Whitehall timeout. From that point, the Vikings broke through against a Montague defense that tried to keep Whitehall (11-2, 7-0 West Michigan Conference Lakes) out of the paint and went at the Vikes hard when they did have the ball there. Camden Thompson scored an andone basket in the final seconds of the quarter, and Evan Thomas rebounded Thompson's free throw and put it in for two more points, making it 10-3.

Whitehall exploded on offense in the second quarter, scoring 23 points - 17 of them in just over the first four minutes of the quarter - to seize control of the game. The Vikes made four

three-pointers in the frame.

"We just settled down a little bit," Whitehall coach Christian Subdon said of the second quarter. "We were trying to find our way and they were doing a couple different things. Credit to them in that first quarter; they slowed us down, so we missed some shots that we probably should have hit."

Montague (3-10, 1-6 WMC Lakes), which has played with better energy in the new year, displayed it again early. Even Wildcats' coach Nick Thaler allowed that with Whitehall's deeper bench, going as hard as his team did early was unlikely to be sustainable, especially when Montague was unable to get some early points to put game pressure on Whitehall.

"We had to have this game in the 30s or 40s to have a chance," Thaler said. "If it's in the 70s and 60s, it's going to be a little bit more difficult for us to do that, because we're not a great offensive team. If we can make it a messier game and try to dig it out of the dirt, I think that's more beneficial to us. That's what we're trying to do. I thought extending in the zone (defense) worked well for one quarter, but playing that physical and playing that tough for four quarters is tough to ask when you don't have a deep bench."

Thompson was again the statisti-

cal leader, racking up 23 points and 14 rebounds, but he got a lot of help on the boards from Corde Anderson, who was a major factor early in the game. Anderson had seven boards to go with 10 points and also totaled four steals. Those two, plus Kal Koehler - who didn't play in the first half but still scored eight points - provide a tall, athletic trio that no team in the West Michigan Conference can match when they're at their best.

"Cam and him were fighting over boards a few times, and it just brings an extra level to our offense when we can trust shooters to shoot and not

have to worry about it," Subdon said of Anderson. "Right now, we're rebounding about 40-something percent of our misses. That's pretty good."

The game wasn't totally without positives for Montague, which saw Riley Mulder score an impressive third-quarter dunk, matching Thompson's almost customary throwdown earlier in the game. Thaler said as far as he knows it was Montague's first dunk at Whitehall in four years.

"He's that good of an athlete," Thal-

Whitehall wins continued

Whitehall's Corde Anderson (center) makes a move to the basket as Montague's Riley Mulder (left) and Cooper Bradley defend during Friday's game at Whitehall. Anderson had 10 points in Whitehall's 72-28 win. • Andy Roberts/Mirror

dominate

boards late to stave off Whitehall comeback

Whitehall's Sidney Shepherd (center) tries to get a shot up over Montague's Amanda Cederquist (42) and Braylyn Bultema during Friday's game at Whitehall. The Wildcats were strong defensively in a 39-35 win. • Andy Roberts/Mirror

Montague's Amanda Cederquist (right) turns back a shot by Whitehall's Sidney Shepherd during Friday's game at Whitehall. • Andy Roberts/Mirror

Montague, Whitehall split rivalry bowling showdown

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

Whitehall and Montague's bowling teams split their rivalry matches Monday at Northway Lanes. The Viking boys earned a 23-7 win, while Montague's girls team won 18-12.

The race for which boys team got to take home the bowling pin trophy that is awarded to the Whitehall vs. Montague cumulative winner each year came down to a tiebreaker, as Montague won the first boys' matchup between the teams by an identical 23-7 score."We did get bowling pins a couple years ago and laminated them - half Montague and half Whitehall - and use them like the football team does the Bell," Montague coach Joshua Chamberlain said.

The Wildcats won that tiebreaker, securing the trophy. Chamberlain said after the numbers were crunched, it was determined Montague had earned a total score of 3,500 to Whitehall's 3,426 in the two matches. (The Montague girls won both matches this season and will also have their bowling pin trophy until next year.)

Whitehall dominated the Baker games portion of the boys' matchup, outscoring Montague 8-2. In individual play, Jeffrey Hackey and Max Schneider had the two highest scores, a 206 and 195 respectively. Peyton Gabriel was the lone Viking to win both of his individual games, but Hackey, Schneider and Mason Slaughter

Andy Roberts/Mirror

•

each won one of theirs and the Vikings also had the higher cumulative team scores in both individual games, earning 10 more team points.

"Our boys were able to turn the table this time around," Whitehall assistant coach Zach Zweigle said. "It's nice to see them starting to settle in, especially right before the regional tournament."Matthew Leatherman had Montague's high game for the boys, rolling a 196. Ethan Hite bowled a 172.

On the girls' side, the Wildcats held a narrow 6-4 edge in Baker game points. Jordyn Tolan delivered an impressive 187 to pace the Wildcats in individual play, and Alanna Hysell won both her games. Felicity Dingman rolled a 160 to lead the Vikings.

"Although we didn't come out on top, some of the younger

Defensive battle

DeBruin said her team's experience is a big factor in the impressive late-game execution it showed on key plays late in the game.

"That's seven seniors, so that comes with experience, from knowing and seeing where the ball is and what they need to do," DeBruin said.

Montague has been getting a lot of close-game reps of late, with three of its last five games decided by single digits. That might not be helping DeBruin's blood pressure, but she thinks it will pay dividends later in the season - if the team can knock down its free throws.

"When they're closer games and they're making them and

Whitehall wins

er said. "That would have been nice if that dunk was to put us up by two instead of putting us down by 28 or 30. I did ask the official if we could have a little bit more points on that dunk for style, but I didn't convince him enough."

Subdon said what he was most pleased by was his team's businesslike approach. The Vikings struggled in a December win over Manistee, and ever since they have been much more intentional about their approach to WMC Lakes opponents.

"We've done a much better job of playing against Whitehall on nights that we feel that we might be the better team," Subdon said. "We didn't do a very good job against Manistee in that sense. Since then they've really said, 'We're not going to let that happen

Correction

Last week's Mirror mistakenly omitted one more family connection for a Whitehall MHSAA Scholar-Athlete finalist. In addition to Viking senior Brady Tate's dad Brad and sister Allison being former Scholar-Athlete winners and Brad being a teacher and coach, Brady's mom Susan is a Whitehall teacher as well. The Mirror apologizes for the omission.

Sports in Brief

girls are really stepping up to the plate," Zweigle said. "We are super optimistic for the future as they are continuing to get better every match."

Also Monday, Whitehall made up a snowed-out match against Fremont. The Viking boys took a 22-8 defeat and the girls lost 300. Schneider rolled the Whitehall boys' high score, a 176, and Delaney Kramer bowled a 156 for the girls' team.

continued from page 4

you've got to go neck and neck, then free throws are going to win games," Bultema said. "It happened to us against Hart. They beat us on free throws. It almost happened to us again tonight. I told them that we've got to really work on getting those shots up."

continued from page 4

again.' We did it again tonight."

Cole Herremans led Montague with six points on a pair of three-pointers. The Vikings geared up for a big week of games following the win; they play Mona Shores Tuesday

and travel to their top WMC Lakes opposition, Ludington, Friday. "I would say (it's) probably a conference title game at Ludington on Friday," Subdon said. "We're excited for the opportunity."

Reeths-Puffer 62 Muskegon Heights 51

Brayden Mitchelson paced the Rockets with 22 points. Kristian Brown had 12 points in the win.

Whitehall 83 Mona Shores 80 (2 OT)

Hunter Osborne delivered key buckets down the stretch to help the Vikings win a thriller. Osborne had 18 points. Camden Thompson racked up 35 points and 17 rebounds, and Brock Morningstar had 14 points. Orchard View 50 Montague 39

Kellan Francis scored 11 points for the Wildcats, who played a close game for most of the way before OV pulled away late.

Muskegon Heights 61 Montague 58

The visiting Tigers scored the final 6 points of the game to steal the win. Kellan Francis scored 17 points for Montague, with Cortland Schneider scoring 14 points and Riley Mulder going for 13.

Wrestling

Montague 3-2 at home duals

Montague defeated league foes North Muskegon and Orchard View and beat Northview, losing to Otsego and Hamilton. Fletcher Thommen, Clay Jordan, Isaac French and Maverick Osborne each went 4-1.

Reeths-Puffer 38 Jenison

Cook, Hunter Eek and Lyric Stewart had pins, and Travis Henderson won by technical fall. Max Knowlton, Cory Judd and Tanner Cowles won by decision.

Cheer

points in the same round.

Reeths-Puffer 4th at

Bowling

Reeths-Puffer splits with Caledonia The Rocket boys won 16-14,

Hockey

Grandville 3 Reeths-Puffer 2

Whitehall 2-0 at home quad

The Vikings dominated Manistee and Orchard View to complete the WMC regular season with a perfect mark. Parker Mott, Gavin Craner, Wyatt Jenkins, Kassie Sapp and Wyatt McFarren each earned a pin en route to 2-0 nights.

Whitehall's Ryne Nicholas sends his ball down the lane during Monday's match against Montague. Nicholas and the Vikings earned a 23-7 win over the Wildcats.

Montague's Jordyn Tolan winds up to deliver her ball during Monday's match against Whitehall. The Wildcat girls won 18-12, and Tolan's 187 was her team's highest individual score.

• Andy Roberts/Mirror

Montague's Cole Herremans tries to get past Whitehall's Finn Muller during Friday's game at Whitehall. • Andy Roberts/Mirror

Montague's Dennett steps down as football coach

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

Montague will need a new football coach for the 2025 season as Justin Dennett recently stepped down after four seasons.

CatchMark SportsNet first reported the decision Tuesday morning, and

Dennett confirmed the news the same day.

Dennett took over the job in 2021 after former coach Pat Collins resigned fresh off the Wildcats' 2020 state championship to take the West Ottawa head coaching position. Dennett had previously been co-offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach at Greenville

High School.

Dennett led Montague to a district championship and 8-4 overall record in his first season, but the team struggled the past three seasons, going 3-7, 4-6 and 4-6.

"It has been an honor and privilege to lead the Montague football program the last four years," Dennett said. "At

this time, I think it is best for me to move on. I want to thank all the former players for their dedication and hard work. I look forward to seeing their continued success in the future."

An attempt to reach Montague athletic director Jay Mulder for comment on the decision had been unsuccessful as of press time.

Vikings, Rockets go 4-0 at Rick Champion Duals

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

Whitehall had an excellent day at Friday's home Rick Champion Duals, going 4-0.

The Vikings defeated Belding (64-17), Tri-County (48-18), Allendale (52-21), and Hudsonville (4229) on the day.

Four Vikings posted perfect 4-0 marks. Gavin Craner and Wyatt Jenkins continued their outstanding seasons by pinning all four of their opponents, and Liam Leeke added three pins and a win by technical fall. Blake English was also dominant, scoring two pins and two technical falls. Tommy

Leeke added a 3-0 record, scoring a pin, a technical fall, and a win by forfeit.

Reeths-Puffer also went 4-0 at the duals. The Rockets edged Hudsonville (35-33), Tri-County (41-36) and Allendale (37-29) and routed Newaygo 83-0.

Four Rockets earned 4-0 records, highlighted by Sage Secrest, who won all four of his matches by pin. Ian Cook scored two technical falls and a pin, as well as a forfeit, and Max Knowlton scored three pins and one win by forfeit. Hunter Eek picked up a pin, a major decision and two wins by decision, including an overtime triumph.

Fletcher Thommen earns 100th win at home tri

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

Montague wrestler Fletcher Thommen achieved a career milestone Monday night at a home tri meet, scoring his 100th career victory.

Thommen earned his 100th win by scoring a pin against Whitehall in the first dual of the evening. The Wildcats took a 12-3 lead to start the match before Whitehall roared back to win 6015. Both teams then defeated Fremont; Montague won 58-22 and Whitehall won 65-9.

Thommen joined brother Jimmy in triple digits in career wins; Jimmy, now wrestling at Muskegon Community

College, won his 100th match last year.

Michael Jones earned a surprise pin against Whitehall star Blake English, underscoring how well Jones has done in only his second year of wrestling.

"As a soccer player, he brings great hips to wrestling," Montague coach Kris Maddox said of Jones. "He catches on quick and works hard. I think his multi-sport athleticism really helps him."

The Vikings dominated the rest of the match after Jones' pin. Liam Leeke, Parker Mott, Wyatt Jenkins, Robert Belinger, Kassie Sapp and Cody Manzo all scored victories by pin, and Gavin Craner, Tommy Leeke and Max Krukowski each won by technical fall. Caden

Varela won a bout by decision, as did Montague's Malachi Plunkett.

Whitehall proceeded to rout Fremont, aided by three forfeit wins. Belinger, Krukowski, Varela, Craner, Jenkins and both Leeke brothers went to 2-0 on the night.

Montague also dispatched Fremont in the final dual of the day, highlighted by a pin from Ava Pelton, who wrestled in place of an injured Kaiden Jeffery. Jones and Thommen also added wins and recorded 2-0 marks for the evening.

"I think we are starting to find our groove a bit, and the kids are coming on at the right time," Maddox said.

Hart feeds Rocket girls "humble pie" in loss

Pirates snap R-P's threegame winning streak despite Walker's 15 pts.

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

MUSKEGON — The young Reeths-Puffer team had a taste of success the past couple of weeks, winning three straight games, including one over rival Muskegon last Friday. However, cold reality arrived Tuesday in the form of the Hart Pirates, who defeated the Rockets 48-39.

R-P led for less than 10 seconds in the second half, 29-28, and was otherwise turned back by a Pirates' team that seemed to have all the answers.

Coach Rodney Walker said he felt his team didn't come with the kind of energy necessary to beat a team like Hart, an experienced and accomplished Division 3 squad that played in the semifinals two seasons ago.

"We've had quite a bit of success in the last couple of games, winning three in a row, and I just thought that our girls didn't do what they were supposed to do as far as preparation and playing and matching energy," Walker

said. "Once you have a big win like the win against Muskegon, teams understand that you're not the same team that you were at the start of the season. You have to realize that you have a target on your back now, and if you don't play like you have a target then It's going to be tough for you."

The game was fast-paced early, with neither team shy about racing out on the break. However, the Pirates were more effective in the system, grabbing a nine-point lead early in the second quarter. The Rockets (5-9) responded with an 8-0 run, including a three-pointer by Savannah Lockwood, but couldn't take the lead.

They finally did grab a 29-28 advantage early in the third quarter when freshman Raquel Walker scored backto-back quick baskets, but Hart immediately took the lead back and called timeout, and a three-pointer on its next possession kept the Rockets at a distance the rest of the way. A lack of patience on offense kept the Rockets from getting into a rhythm.

"I thought we could have done a better job offensively as far as rebounding and getting stickbacks," Walker said. "We were just taking quick shots, I

• Andy Roberts/Mirror

thought, and then didn't do a good job of getting those second chance opportunities."

Raquel Walker scored a game-high 15 points, but she ran out of energy late, with coach Walker saying she was battling illness and a back injury, so she did not finish the game. Jenna Terpstra hit a couple of shots late to try to get R-P back in it, but to no avail.

Coach Walker said he hopes his team benefits in the long run from the result of the game, believing it will re-energize the roster.

"Sometimes humble pie is not a bad thing, so let's get back to the drawing board and do the things we need to do as far as preparation," Walker said.

Whitehall's Liam Leeke (left) keeps Belding's Linkin Glavan on the mat during Friday's Rick Champion Duals at the Viking Athletic Center. Leeke earned a perfect 4-0 mark and helped Whitehall win all four of its matches. • Andy Roberts/Mirror

Montague wrestler Fletcher Thommen celebrates his 100th career victory with his parents, James and Christy, during Monday's home tri meet. • Courtesy Photo

Reeths-Puffer's Jazz Kops leaps to save a ball from going out of bounds while Hart's Addi Hovey looks on during Tuesday's game at R-P. The Rockets lost, 48-39.

Police activity this week

Behind the Badge

Whitehall Police Report

Jan. 23

Whitehall Police took a report of a vehicle crash by a plow truck. The incident happened in the parking lot of a business in the 2100 block of Cogswell when a private plow struck a vehicle belonging to the business during an overnight clearing.

Jan. 25

An officer was dispatched to a call of a possible domestic dispute in the 1200 block of Colby St. When the officer arrived at the 11:42 a.m. call, he spoke with a resident of the apartment. The woman said there was no argu-

ment but that she was yelling at her dog for soiling the carpet. No further action was taken.

An attempt to avoid one crash led to a crash on Colby Street in the 700 block. According to the police report a 51-year-old Brooklyn, MI man was eastbound on Colby when a vehicle pulled out of a driveway in front of him. The driver attempted to change lanes to avoid a crash but did not see the vehicle in the inside lane next to him. The two eastbound vehicles then collided. The second vehicle was driven by a 30-year-old Whitehall woman. There were no injuries in the 2:20 p.m. crash and the third vehicle continued from the scene.

An officer’s attempt to stop a vehicle involved in a possible assault led to a vehicle chase at 10:23 p.m. Montague Police had been dispatched to a disturbance at a hotel and the suspect had left in a vehicle. Shortly after, a vehicle sped past the officer in the downtown of Whitehall. The officer activated the overhead lights and siren but the vehicle continued and then accelerated, driving back through Whitehall at excessive speeds and running traffic

lights. The pursuit continued south on US-31 as the suspect was able to avoid two attempts at Spike Strips. The pursuit ended on northbound M-120 in Muskegon Township when the officer lost sight of the vehicle. Video and visual identification of the driver was made and the report was submitted to the Muskegon County Prosecutor for charges.

Jan. 27

Whitehall Police responded to a neighbor dispute in the 1200 block of Colby St. The first neighbor was complaining that the second was harassing her and today was banging on the ceiling of the apartment below. The second woman told the officer she wasn’t feeling well and the music upstairs was loud and disturbing. The officer responding to the 1:56 p.m. call suggested they learn how to get along as their dispute has been ongoing.

At 6:03 p.m. Whitehall officers were dispatched to the 1300 block of King St. Officers spoke with a man there who reported that he had been assaulted by his brother while they were in a car on Benston Road in the 500 block. According to the caller, the brothers be-

gan to argue while driving home from Muskegon and the 29-year-old, who was driving, reached over and opened the passenger door and attempted to push the victim out of the car. They then continued home. The case report was sent to the Muskegon County Prosecutor for review.

Jan. 28

Whitehall Police investigated a theft that was found to not be a theft. Police were called at 2 p.m. after a video camera was thought to be stolen from a worksite in the 200 block of W Colby St. There was GPS tracking on the device which led to a location in Hopkins. As the investigation continued, it was learned a worker had discovered the camera left outside and unsecured and took it to secure it. He later turned it over to other staff at the main business and there was no theft.

At 9:01 p.m. Whitehall officers were called to the high school after the basketball games as game officials were concerned about the threats of some of the adult fans. The officers escorted the officials to their vehicle and no further action was taken.

Night on the Town Rotary fundraiser Feb. 15

The Montague-Whitehall Rotary Club will host its largest annual fundraising event, "Night on the Town," Saturday, Feb. 15 at The Playhouse at White Lake starting at 5:30 p.m.

The Rotary Club has been involved with many major projects in the White Lake area over the years, such as the Montague bandshell, a splash pad bench and umbrella and outdoor gas fireplace in Whitehall and an ice rink warming shelter and gazebo in Mon-

tague.

“The Night on the Town sponsored by the Montague-Whitehall Rotary will provide an evening full of food, entertainment and good company,” said Clarissa Moon, event chairperson, in a press release. “This special night is our Rotary club’s major fundraiser, to sponsor many organizations throughout the White Lake area."

The evening will include a concert from Muskegon band West Side Soul

Surfers, which has performed at the summer concert series at the Montague bandshell in the past. Also part of the festivities will be a silent auction, raffles and beverage sales.

"Events like this are a fun, entertaining way to keep our various projects moving throughout the year," said Esther Baldridge, current area Rotary president, in the release.

Tickets for the event are $100 and include appetizers provided by the

Gnarly Heifer, a $25 raffle ticket and early entry to the concert. They may be purchased from any Rotarian or at the Montague branch of Shelby State Bank or at the White Lake Area Chamber & Visitors Bureau. Those only interested in the concert may purchase concert-only tickets online at theplayhouseatwhitelake.org.

Chamber Music Society receives grant

The White Lake Chamber Music Society has received a generous grant from the White Lake Fund of the Community Foundation for Muskegon County that will underwrite the cost of two upcoming live classical music performances held at the Dave Myers Performance Studio at Blue Lake Public Radio (300 E. Crystal Lake Rd., Twin Lake). Free tickets are available on a

first-come, first-served basis.

On Thursday, Feb. 27 at 2 p.m., Kuang-Hao Huang will perform a solo piano recital featuring Schubert Piano Sonata in A Major, Beethoven Piano Sonata No.30 in E Major, and the Bach French Suite No. 5 in G Major.

On Thursday, Apri 10 at 2 p.m. Huang and Marina Hoover will perform the Debussy Cello Sonata, plus a

Spanish flair featuring Gaspar Cassado’s Requiebros, Enrique Grandados, and Albeniz’s Celebre Serenata Espagnola.

"The Society’s mission of producing world-class chamber music concerts, promoting and supporting classical music learning opportunities for all ages, and creating awareness of the value and significance of fine music

will be strengthened by the addition of these exciting events," the Society said in a press release.

To claim a free ticket for either performance, please text or call Director Sondra Cross at 231-329-3056. For a schedule of this year’s events, please visit www.whitelakemusic.org.

White Lake Wanderland to liven up winter

The White Lake Snow Farmers will again present the annual White Lake Wanderland Saturday and Sunday, Feb. 8-9, with several activities to encourage residents and visitors alike to enjoy the winter in the area.

One of the highlight activities during the Wanderland will be the cardboard sled race at the Hanson Street sledding hill. Registration for the event will take place at 11 a.m. Feb. 8, with racing from noon to 1 p.m. Last year, the lack of snow on the sledding hill, owing to the mild winter, resulted in the race being tweaked into a cardboard sled show. The winter storm that

blew through the White Lake area last week, hopefully, will negate the possibility of that situation repeating itself. Prizes will be awarded after the cardboard sled race.

"It's a lot of fun getting people out and seeing kids on the sledding hill in their cardboard sleds," said John Hanson of the White Lake Snow Farmers. "Hopefully it'll bring people to town and get people involved."

During the sled race, Hanson said, the Hanson Hill Waterfront Grill will provide free hot chocolate to race participants and viewers, and will also serve $1 hot dogs and $5 Chicago-style

hot dogs.

Sawyers Brewing will host the Snowshoe Shuffle from 3-5 p.m. Feb. 8 at Buttermilk Creek Park behind the Montague post office. Participants will be welcomed to collect letters along the snowy path and unscramble them to unlock a prize. There will be a fire pit and free s'mores and hot chocolate at the Shuffle, and Dog 'n Suds will be open nearby serving $2 coney dogs.

Following the Shuffle, North Grove Brewers will serve spiked hot cocoa from 5-7 p.m.

Sunday will feature a snow sculpture contest sponsored by the Busy Bee

Cafe. "Organic material", Hanson said, would sub in for snow if needed. Throughout the weekend, there will also be a Frosty team-based scavenger hunt. Hanson said there will be pictures posted to social media Friday afternoon, Feb. 7, with "a little tin snowman" in each one, and teams will be challenged to find where the snowman has been. Teams then take group selfies in each location and post them using the hashtag #WLwanderland2025 and compete for prizes.