The Oceana Echo - Volume 1, Issue 5, June 30, 2023

Pentwater Service Club names

Joe Primozich

2023 Citizen of The Year

Decision announced during club’s annual meeting, making Primozich the 50th Citizen of the Year

By Mark Trierweiler

The Oceana

Echo

Volunteer Correspondent

The Pentwater Service Club (PSC) today announced that Joe Primozich has been named the 2023 Pentwater Citizen of the Year.  This year marks the 50th anniversary of this community service award. “It will be a privilege to recognize Joe’s passionate work in ensuring the health of Pentwater Lake, as he is well deserving of this award, particularly in its 50th year,” said PSC Vice President Steve Russell.

As incoming president, Russell will preside over the Oct. 12 Pentwater Yacht Club dinner honoring Primozich for his expertise and dedication to maintaining Pentwater Lake, the community’s “greatest asset” according to the most recent community-wide survey.

Primozich taught biology and ecology at Walkerville and Hart Schools for 37 years before retiring with his wife, Judy, to Pentwater in 2005. They have six children and 11 grandchildren. “Pentwater is fortunate to have had so many dedicated volunteers over the last 50 years, all of whom have shaped this community we all call home,” said Gigi Mitchell, co-chair of

Planning Commission approves PUD and site plan for Shelby Acres

By Sharon Hallack The Oceana Echo Community Correspondent

Joe Primozich

the Citizen of the Year program for the PSC. “Joe Primozich won this award because the selection committee felt his interest, background and dedication to Pentwater Lake set him apart from other candidates in 2023.”

Primozich is a former president of the Pentwater Lake Association (PLA) and is currently chairperson of the Pentwater

Lake Improvement Board. An avid fisherman, Primozich is well known at many levels for his devotion to keeping Pentwater Lake healthy and full of fish.

Mild-mannered by nature, Joe credits his mentors, Ron Steiner, Milt Pugsley and Dave Roseman, for getting him involved with the PLA. “When they learned of my background and interest in Pentwater Lake, Milt asked me, …‘Where are the bluegills?’,” Primozich said. “Pentwater Lake has become a growing part of a very satisfying chapter in my life since I first moved here.”

According to Primozich, harmful aquatic life can come in on boats and even waterfowl. Once here, it can be difficult, if not impossible, to completely eradicate them.  Instead, the PLA alternates between mechanical harvesting and chemical treatments to control aquatic plants like milfoil and starry stonewort. Most recently, the PLA oversaw the mechanical harvesting of more than 140 tons of starry stonewort, reducing the need for chemicals, which also kill the natural habitat fish require for spawning. The goal of both methods is to reduce the formation of oxygen-depleting muck on the bottom of the lake.

The real Shaquille

Shaquille “Shaq” O’Neal made a stop in Rothbury June 24 to perform at Electric Forest under his stage name, DJ Diesel. This photo was posted on the Michigan State Police Sixth District’s Twitter page @mspwestmi with the following information “Troopers had a tall detail last evening at the Electric Forest Festival - “DJ Diesel”. For those of us that are a little seasoned, recognize this fine gentleman as the one and only Shaquille O’Neal! “

SHELBY - Tuesday, June 20, the Village of Shelby Planning Commission gave its approval to PF Landholdings for the site plan and PUD (Planned Unit Development) of the proposed Shelby Acres subdivision.

PF Landholdings is a 501(c)3 non-profit founded by Earl and Linda Peterson, with the goal of building more affordable housing for area residents. The proposed development is located on Oceana Drive, just north of the Shelby village limits.

The proposed project will be executed in three phases. Phase I is complete with the construction of two 6-unit apartment buildings to be used as workforce housing by Peterson Farms. Phase II will include the construction of 22 single-family homes. Phases III, IV and V will construct additional single-family homes per the plan’s phasing schedule.

Richard Raffaelli, a representative for the Petersons, was on hand Tuesday night to go over site plans and answer questions regarding lot size and layout, street names, entrances and exits, street lighting, HOA bylaws, permits and school bus stops.

Also included in the site plans were three different home designs. The “Elm” design has a 1,446 squarefoot floor plan, the “Tamarack” has a 1,330-squarefoot floor plan; and the “Aspen,” with four bedrooms, would encompass 1,706 square feet. “Twenty-six different siding colors would be used by the builder and arranged in a visually pleasing manner, according to Raffaelli. Each home will have two full baths and include a finished basement.

Raffaelli also relayed information to the planning commission about postal service, landscaping, garbage pick-up and snow removal. Two items of discussion centered around sidewalks and traffic flow.

No sidewalks have been planned in order to keep the cost of each home within an affordable range, Raffaelli said. Commission members were concerned with safety, knowing that some children will end up playing in the street. Ross Field, planning commission chairman, anticipates older kids walking across Oceana Drive to school rather than waiting for a school bus. Instead of sidewalks, Raffaelli said developers could add a riding track somewhere on the property to provide a safe place to ride.  As far as older kids crossing Oceana Drive to go to school, that issue would have to be taken up with the school.

Eleven conditions of the PUD and site plan approval were considered by the commission. Numbers one through eight were standard and easily agreed upon. Conditions 9–11 were modified as follows: number 9, “Before Phase 3 of the proposed development commences, a traffic study may be required;” number 10, “Require 13 percent of open space to be deed restricted to ensure open space remains undeveloped in perpetuity at the completion of the development and to include a children’s tricycle/bicycle riding center,” and number 11, “Applicant shall apply for approval of a speed limit change on Oceana Drive.”

The approved site plan and PUD are tentatively scheduled to go before the Shelby Village Council Monday, July 24. A public hearing will take place, and more than likely, the village will vote to approve or deny the request. If approved, the project would move through the annexation process.

Those with further questions should contact the village offices at 231-861-4400.

Pitch North returns for 5th year

Entrepreneurial pitch competition open to those living in Newaygo, Oceana or Lake Counties

The Newaygo County Economic Development Partnership, powered by The Right Place, has announced the return of Pitch North, an entrepreneurial pitch competition open to those living in Newaygo, Oceana or Lake Counties.

Current or aspiring entrepreneurs and small business owners are encouraged to submit their pitch for consideration now through July 14 at 11:59 p.m. via an online form. A committee of local leaders will review and score all submissions. Five finalists will be chosen to pitch their ideas for a chance to win cash prizes at the live event.

Pitch North will take place at The Pavilion at Waters Edge, 1100 Ramshorn Dr. in Fremont Aug. 16, from 4-6 p.m. The event is free to attend and open to the public. Anyone is welcome to attend the finale event, regardless of county residency status. Registration is still required. Contest rules only apply to applicants looking to submit their ideas to the Pitch North judges. There is no cost to submit an idea to the Pitch North competition.

Proof of residency will be required with each pitch submission.

Applicants must be at least 18 years of age at

Dozens of activities planned for multi-day Hesperia Family Fun Fest

time of entry.

Submissions are only accepted on an individual basis. Checks for winning entries will only be made out to an individual, not a group, business or organization.

Only one entry per individual will be accepted, and cash prizes are yet to be determined.

To learn more, register to attend or submit an idea, please visit rightplace.org/events/ pitch-north-2023.

Pitch North began in 2019 and has engaged over 100 entrepreneurs in the first four years, awarding over $39,000 in cash and prizes to 20 finalists.

Pitch North is hosted by The Right Place, Inc. with the following partners: Newaygo County Economic Development Partnership, Oceana County Economic Alliance and Lake County Economic Development Alliance.

The Village of Hesperia is gearing up for their 4th of July Family Fun Fest. The Family Fun Fest is scheduled for Monday, July 3, and Tuesday, July 4, with the main events scheduled for Tuesday.  Hesperia’s 4th of July celebrations will begin with the Ed’s Orchard Market White River Fun Run, taking place on July 1 at 8:30 a.m. There are many age groups available for walkers and runners, and all proceeds will go towards the Hesperia Cross Country Program. Starting Monday, July 3, and into Tuesday, July 4, the familiar Craft Fair & Market will be open in Webster Park from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., at the southeast corner of M-20 and M-120.  Sparing no excitement, there will be events taking place all day long on July 4 leading up to the main fireworks display at Dusk. Some notable events include the Family Fun Fest Parade starting at noon, followed by a vintage car show along Hesperia’s downtown main street, Street Dance, Horse Pulls, Tractor Pulls, Horseshoe Tournament, foam party and the return of the Hesperia Area Volunteer Fire Department Water Battle. Hesperia’s Chamber of Commerce is also revamping their raffle drawing this year. The chamber is currently selling Half Pot Raffle Tickets for this year’s raffle prize. Tickets are being sold at different price points depending on the amount of desired tickets. A winning ticket will be drawn on July 4, and the prize is Half Pot of the proceeds. The pot was over $4,000 at time of publication. Tickets must be purchased by individuals 18 years of age or older with valid identification. For more information, visit the Hesperia Chamber of Commerce website at: www.hesperiachamberofcommerce.com.

While the excitement goes much further, attendees will be able to enjoy all that this small Oceana village has to offer, including beautiful landscaping, spacious parks, and water activities situated along White River and the Hesperia Dam. Food vendors will be readily available as well, so bring an appetite, Independence Day spirit, and sunscreen and enjoy the various entertainment options from sunrise to dusk. A full schedule of events, including a map, can be seen on page 6.

Local author wins International Book Award Recognition

Oceana County author, farmer, baker, fish boiler, lavender labyrinth maker and market entrepreneur Barbara E. Bull has been recognized as a finalist in both the General Fiction and Regional Fiction categories of the 2023 Next Generation Indie Book Awards for her novel, “Come By Here.”

Owner of Cherry Point Farm & Market near Little Point Sable, Bull traveled to Chicago June 23 to accept the awards at a gala event at the Newberry Library, coinciding with the American Library Association Annual Conference.

Hosted by the Independent Book Publishing Professionals Group, the Next Generation Indie Book Awards, now in their 16th year, are judged by leaders of the indie book publishing industry, including many with long careers at major publishing houses. It is the largest international book awards program for independent publishers and self-published authors.

“Come By Here” is Bull’s eighth novel in the Katherine MacLeod series. The story is set in Casnovia, Mich. and involves the Underground Railroad and early settlers of the lumbering era. Her

third novel in the series, “Whispers on the Wind,” was a Silver Medalist in the 2018 Annual Independent Publisher Book Awards, and her fourth, “Still Waters,” was a Bronze Medalist in 2019. Bull’s ninth novel, “Checkered Pasts,” was just published this summer. All are available at the Cherry Point Farm & Market, and in area bookstores.

Bull is a lifelong resident of West Michigan. She grew up in the orchards of her family’s farms in Casnovia and at Little Point Sable, and on the beach of Lake Michigan. Her Cherry Point Farm & Market is a mecca for visitors, with whom she loves sharing her passion for horticulture, history and writing. A graduate of Mount Holyoke College in Massachusetts, she also holds master’s degrees from the University of Michigan and from Western Michigan University.

HART SPARKS

will light up the sky July 2

Join us for a family fun Independence Day celebration with kids activities, food vendors, live music and FIREWORKS over Hart Lake!

6-11 pm

Simply In Time Band • July

Barbara E. Bull at the 16th annual Next Generation

Book

at the Newberry

SADL hosts Local History Room open house

The Shelby Area District Library hosted an open house, Saturday, June 24 so the public could come and see the newest additions to its Local History Room. One of their most recent collections is that of Thomas Read memorabilia, including his personal briefcase and pocket watch, that was donated by his granddaughter, Kathryn Deering. The elementary school in the village bears his name, as Shelby was Read’s hometown. Read was lieutenant governor of Michigan from 1921 to 1925 and again, from 1935 to 1937.

The Local History Room includes: family genealogies and histories from the Shelby area, old Shelby postcards and photographs, Oceana County cemetery records, local newspapers on microfilm, atlases, the William Field Memorial Hart-Montague Rail Trail scrapbook, the Paul and Freda Grover Benona family genealogy and the Samuel Atherton genealogy collection.

According to a release on the SADL Facebook page, “The Local History Committee would like to thank the Friends of the Library, the Mid-Michigan Library League (MMLL) and an anonymous donor from the Community Foundation for Oceana County.

“In the Fall of 2021, we were awarded a mini-grant through the MMLL that allowed us to buy a new printer for the Local History Room.

“A year later, in the Fall of 2022, we were again awarded a MMLL mini-grant that allowed us to start buying supplies for the Local History Room.

“In December of 2022, our wish was granted from the Community Foundation’s wish list that allowed us to buy even more supplies that we needed.

“And in January 2023, the Friends of the Library agreed to give a contribution to the Local History Room for supplies.

“The supplies we bought included binder boxes to replace three-ring binders that were falling apart and allowed us to better protect the photos we have in our collection. We also were able to buy large portfolios that will hold and protect pages of old plat books, among other things. Other items we bought were display cases, a riser for displays and photo and poster frames. Thank you again to these wonderful organizations that have helped us further protect our community’s history.”

Library staff set out several items for viewing in the meeting room next to the Local History Room at the south end of the library during the open house. There was also a tri-fold display further explaining what the Local History Room is and how it came to be. The Local History Committee at SADL, which is comprised of “staff members and community members dedicated to preserving local history” had its first meeting June 2, 2003. The group was “formed to begin planning and setting priorities for the new Local History room. The committee still meets to discuss and collect historical research and artifacts…and hosts historical related events for the library.”

Refreshments were provided by the Friends of the Shelby Area District Library.

Charles Jay’s Hemlock Gorge

By Caleb Jackson The Oceana Echo Community Columnist

One of the most unique figures in Oceana’s history is Charles Jay. He was an editor and writer who moved from New Jersey to what is present day Shelby in 1871. Of course, he continued to ply his craft while in Michigan, and his works can be found scattered through the local publications of that time, sometimes under the pen name O.P. Dildock. His prose is equal parts witty, romantic and sarcastic, verging on a near-Victorian style. Where he had settled in Shelby, which was then called Benona, was a region called Blackberry Ridge, and is presently called Buchanan Road, next to Cherry Point Farm & Market. Luckily for us, Jay found himself in a bit of a tight spot in 1874 and compiled a few articles based around Oceana County into a small book called “My New Home in Northern Michigan, and Other Tales.” Today, I would like to walk you through one of the chapters in that book, called “The Spectre of the Hemlock Gorge.”

The premise for this tale is simple: there is a haunted grove with old-growth hemlocks that even old-time settlers are scared to step foot in. Jay becomes so curious that he eventually seeks the opinion of someone whom he believes to be level-headed and immune to these typically fanciful tales. He spends some time describing this gorge, saying that the density of the hemlocks “gave a darkness to noonday beneath,” and that when a wind blew through the gorge, “the roar that came up from its depths…almost silenced the great waves that broke on the adjacent shore.”

Our tale begins one snowy day when Jay invites an old hunter to rest at his cabin for the evening. After a friendly supper and some latenight tobacco by the fire, Jay finally musters the courage to ask this early settler about the gorge. The hunter seemed to weigh Jay’s intent, and after concluding that he was genuinely interested and not just having a laugh, he shared his story. Before there was ever a single permanent settler in Benona, the hunter used to come to the area with a man named LeClerc every winter. LeClerc was a French-Canadian trapper. He describes him by saying he was “the most cunning hunter and trapper I ever met with,” but then goes on to say that he was “terribly profane, both in his native and acquired tongue.” “But for swearing,” Jay wrote, “he always seemed to prefer the French, until the supply was exhausted, and then he would replenish his impoverished vocabulary by copious draughts upon the hardest English expletives.”

Well, one day, they decided to enter the gorge together with their hunting hounds. “As soon as we reached the entrance of the gorge,” the hunter said, “the hounds broke out in a full cry, and went in on a run.” They took off after a herd of deer, and LeClerc took off after them. The hunter then comments on the gloom cast by the hemlocks, and the “rank, graveyard odor,” which “seemed to ooze from the sides of the gorge…” With fear mounting, LeClerc trips over a root, and then they hear the dogs whimper and turn tail, running back towards them. They look to see what spooked the dogs, and it is then that they encounter the specter. “Between two dead hemlock trees, stood a figure completely enveloped in a black shroud…. The outlines were unmistakably human…The dreadful apparition was too palpable, too well-defined, and too distinct from the nature of all of its surroundings, to be classed with any real substance.” This shadowy figure

then lifts its arm and points to a spot on the edge of the gorge before slowly vanishing. Well, our two brave hunters did what anyone would do; they got up and left! However, they did so after agreeing to return and inspect the spot the next day, so they took a hatchet and marked one of the trees before leaving. The next day, they returned, found the tree and examined the spot, but still, they could find nothing. But lo and behold, upon turning back to the dead hemlocks, there was the figure again! And again, it raised its shadowy arm, pointed and vanished. They looked further and found the mouth of a small cave hidden behind a young hemlock. They cut the tree down only to find a human skeleton and the tattered remains of a note:

I know that I am dying, and I feel that an angry God is here. In my life, I scoffed at His name, and derided His promises and His threatenings. In my dying hour, He has closed His mercy against me. Hope is gone forever, and a black eternity opens before me. Should my remains be discovered, the prayer of a dying wretch is, that they may be removed to the burying grounds of some Christian church.

(Charles Jay, 1874, p. 159)

The note is dated January 1851. The pair of men then wrap the remains in a blanket and relocate them into the sandy soil of the Methodist Church at Pentwater. Later inspection reveals there was a shipwreck around January of that same year, and they assume this poor man was one of the survivors. Following this event, LeClerc cleans up his act and stops swearing so much, which has a greater effect on the settlers of the area. Jay then goes into some musings about superstition, reality and God before ending the tale with a quote from Shakespeare, “Dear reader, there are more things in Heaven and Earth than are dreamed of in your philosophy.”

This tale is of course fictitious. It is merely a vehicle for Jay to communicate his religious musings regarding the power of myth and superstitions. In fact, the character of the old hunter appears elsewhere in Jay’s book to relate another fictitious tale about an abandoned cabin that was seemingly built before any known settlers of Oceana and which served as the site of a romantic tragedy. Still though, this tale, the flavors and elements of it are unique to Oceana County. The Hemlock Gorge, Pentwater Methodist Church, the French-Canadian trapper—these are all things we recognize from our past, and they ground these stories in tangible reality. West Michigan has its fair share of local haunts and legends, and it’s a shame that Hemlock Gorge didn’t go down among them, for Charles Jay’s sake.

Shelby State Bank announces honors for officers

SHELBY - Mishelle M. Comstock, President & Chief Executive Officer of Shelby State Bank is pleased to announce Janis Vanderputte Vice President, Compliance Officer, and IT Security Officer for Shelby State Bank and Jody Brewer, Credit Officer have both been honored for their contributions to the banking industry and the impact they both have made in their respective positions.

Janis received the ’40 under 40’ emerging leaders award from the Independent Community Bankers of America. She is recognized among other up and coming innovators, influencers, and civil servants that represent community banking excellence. As a member of the Education Committee of the Community Bankers of Michigan, Janis helps the association inform its members about banking and training best practices. Janis is a resource for many of her colleagues at Shelby State Bank.

Jody received the 20 under 30 award, in the area of Finance and Banking, from Michigan Works West

Janis Vanderputte Jody Brewer

Central. She was among 19 other professionals who are excelling in their respective fields under the age of 30.

Jody’s dedication to her career and her passion for people and the community sets her apart. Jody was able to share how others guided her along the way and what she finds unique

Team Percy Pet Center

Wants to help you!

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Are you tired of your dog jumping on people, barking at the mailman, or pulling on the leash?

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This workshop will cover everything from, basic puppy socialization and obedience to major behavior issues.

The first workshop will take place July 9th, 9 AM to 3 PM • Scan the code above to learn more!

231-867-0489 • teampercytraining@gmail.com

about West Michigan. She also shared her appreciation for the local

community service she is a part of through Shelby State Bank and with her role is able to assist businesses grow their footprint and benefit the community.

“We are honored to have both Janis and Jody as part of our amazing team at Shelby State Bank and it’s great to see them recognized both regionally and nationally for their dedication and hard work,” shared Mishelle Comstock.

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

Ongoing

June - August - Pentwater Farmers Market, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Mondays and Thursdays at the Village Green in Pentwater. September will be Thursdays only through Sept. 28.

June - August - Music on the Commons, 7-9 p.m. Thursdays in downtown Hart. Visit takemetohart.org for more information.

June-September - New Era Farmer’s Market, 4-7 p.m. June 27, July 11 & 25, August 8 & 22 and September 12.

events calendar summer

*All live music runs from June through August*

Tuesdays - Silver Lake Community Concert Series

Little Sable Lighthouse

Thursdays - Downtown Hart

Live Music July

July 1 - Country Dairy Super Social

July 1-4 - Hesperia Family Fun Fest

July 2 - Hart Sparks Fireworks, in downtown Hart

July 2 - Stony Lake Sparkler 5K Run at the Stony Lake Inn

July 3 - Pentwater Fireworks at Charles Mears State Park

July 4 - Thunder Over the Dunes! Fireworks at Silver Lake Sand Dunes State Park.

July 8 - Fine Arts & Crafts Fair, at the Village Green in Pentwater.

Hart Commons Park Pentwater Civic Band Concerts

Fridays - Hart Historic District

Fox Barn Winery

Chicken Shack

Saturdays - Village Pub & Cafe

Chicken Shack

Sundays - Golden Sands Golf Course

Living Legacies: Electric Forest 2023

• Brendan Samuels/Echo

O bituaries

In Loving Memory of our Family, Friends and Neighbors

Mary Belle Hollis

April 24, 1931 ~ June 23, 2023

Mary Belle Hollis, 92, passed away peacefully June 23, 2023. She was born to Ferdnand and Beatrice (Richardson) Winfield, April 24, 1931, in Edmondson, Ark.

Mary is the mother of Willie Jones, Josephine JonesFoxx and Joyce Coleman.

Mary had a bubbly personality and always had a smile on her face. Everyone she met loved her; she always kept them laughing and smiling. She was also one who didn’t accept anyone’s mess; she was an outspoken woman who didn’t hold her tongue, and you always knew where you stood. She was also very proud of the fact that she had a companion who was much younger than she was, and was sure to tell everyone that. Mary was also very proud of the fact that she lived as long and fully as she did.

Mary enjoyed crafting, decorating, gardening and baking in her free time. She was a simple woman, who found joy in the little things in life, but she loved to dress to impress. Her style was flashy, with lots of bling, vibrant colors and statement pieces. Mary will be remembered as a very loving and giving woman.

Mary was preceded in death by: her husband, Willie Hollis; sister, Martha Winfield; brothers, Roy Winfield and Charlie Laskins; son, Willie Jones; and her mother and father, Ferdnand and Beatrice (Richardson) Winfield.

Mary is survived by: her brother, Clyde (Vicky) Winfield; daughters, Josephine Jones-Fox, and Joyce Coleman; grandchildren, Edward, Molaki, Shashu, and Willie; great-grandchildren, Sierra, Eric, Onia, Declan, and Althea; many nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the funeral home to assist the family with expenses.

Memorial services will be conducted at 2 p.m., Friday, July 7, 2023, at Beacon Cremation & Funeral Service, King-Hart Chapel, 2370 N. 72nd Ave., Hart, MI 49420. Visitation will take place one hour prior to services at the funeral home, with a luncheon immediately following. Interment will be in Fairlawn Cemetery in Walkerville, Mich. at a later date.

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

PWC awards scholarships, continues fundraising efforts

Each year, since 1967, the Pentwater Women’s Club has awarded scholarships to qualifying Pentwater High School seniors for post-high school educational plans. The number now totals 201. This year, the club awarded six students with scholarships at the school’s awards ceremony. It is the efforts of the club’s members that allow the PWC to raise the money for the scholarship fund through two major events: the annual Wine & Art Event in May and the Quilt Raffle. This year’s Wine & Art Event was successful thanks to members, the attendees and the support we received from area businesses with donations of art, artisan designs of wood, fiber and pottery, gift baskets and gift certificates for a silent auction. Wine tastings were selected by area business, Port View Market, and attendees sampled a variety of wines and nibbled on appetizers and desserts.

The remaining 2023 fundraiser for the PWC Scholarship Fund is the Quilt Raffle. The Pentwater Women’s Club is blessed with several experienced quilters, and each year, since 2018, they have created a quilt for raffle. It has become the tradition to name the quilt after something pertaining to Pentwa-

ter, and this year’s quilt, “Paws Around Pentwater,” is a nod to the variety of wildlife found in the area. The king-size quilt is in a paw pattern, and the fabric is reminiscent of local wildlife. Raffle ticket sales will continue throughout the summer, with the winning ticket drawn on the Friday of Pentwater Homecoming, August 11. The winner need not be present to win. PWC members will be selling raffle tickets on Thursday evenings, during the Pentwater Band Concerts, at the top of the Village Green from 7:30-9 p.m. In addition, local businesses, Jilly’s and Sew Let’s Be Quilty have tickets for sale. Raffle ticket prices are $5 each or three for $10.

Weather

The frequency in severe weather has led to an increase in power outages. More than ever, you need to be prepared. Think about it, without power, you will have no lights, heating or cooling, or refrigeration. You can’t even charge your cell phone. But when you have a Generac home standby generator, you will have power when you need it the most.

25900-952-13

PWC scholarship awardees, from left, include Jennifer Costilla, Evalena Jeruzal, Marissa Sayles, Grace Stoneman, Jocelyn Richison and Anna VanDuinen.

Puzzle Time

Oceana Community Foundation seeks Outreach Coordinator in partnership with AmeriCorps

PENTWATER – Oceana Community Foundation is excited to announce an open AmeriCorps position. Perfect for someone at any stage in their career, the Foundation’s AmeriCorps member will play a vital role in its communications, marketing, event management and database management. As a member of the foundation’s office in Pentwater, the person selected will gain professional experience in nonprofits and community development, and make a big impact in this community as Outreach Coordinator. An Outreach Coordinator position has become increasingly important at this time to ensure connectedness within this community and make Oceana a stronger, healthier and more vibrant place to live.

This year-long position will last from Sept. 18, 2023, to Aug. 23, 2024, and offers a living allowance, an education award, qualified student loan forgiveness, health benefits, professional development and more. Working at the foundation provides a unique opportunity to connect with Oceana County’s nonprofit community, both as a thought partner and as a nonprofit professional. Whether someone is a recent graduate or working towards a degree, they will be able to truly make a difference, right in their own neighborhood. You can see the full job description and steps for how to apply here: bit.ly/serveamericorps. The deadline to apply is June 30.

Part of the position will be working with the Oceana College Access Network (Oceana CAN!), a program working to ensure all students, including adult learners, are prepared for and have access to post-secondary education and training. Oceana CAN! is also supported by the statewide Michigan College Access Network with grants and resources. Since its creation in 2012, Oceana CAN! has worked with hundreds of students to explore college and vocational training, career readiness and access to

education. Oceana CAN! works with on-the-ground service providers who bring programs such as Students in the Workplace, the College and Career Fair, College Application Day and FAFSA workshops and campus visits to Oceana students. The position will provide the Foundation’s AmeriCorps with hands-on experience at these events, connecting students with educational resources and opportunities.

“We are excited to invite someone new to join our team as our Outreach Coordinator,” Foundation CEO Tammy Carey shared. “Each person has their own history and skills that can be a tremendous asset to the Foundation’s and Oceana CAN!’s work, regardless of their experience in the nonprofit sector. Through their lived experiences, we can’t wait to see how our new AmeriCorps member will help add capacity to the Foundation and help us build a more vibrant Oceana County.”

The AmeriCorps member position within the Oceana Community Foundation is part of a statewide AmeriCorps program, managed by the Community Economic Development Association of Michigan (CEDAM).

CEDAM is a coalition of leaders across Michigan’s community development sector that work to create vibrant, inclusive spaces for all people to live and work. Through programs, advocacy, and other resources, CEDAM promotes community development and equity. More information about the position and how to apply can be found here: oceanafoundation.org/ job-openings. The deadline to apply is June 30.

Shayne Graham

C lini C f O r K i CK s Jack Fox

Hart football hosts special teamers with NFL experience in Jack Fox, Shayne Graham

By: Brendan Samuels

The Oceana Echo Sports Reporter

HART – In the heat of the summer months, football programs at every level are ramping up their offseason programs. Hart’s football program got a particularly special pair of guests on their field on Wednesday as current Detroit Lions punter Jack Fox and former NFL kicker Shayne Graham led a group of young athletes in a clinic for special teamers.

Fox is a four-year pro out of Rice University and has served as the Lions’ punter since the 2019-20 season. During that time, Fox has been named to the Pro Bowl roster and awarded Second-team AllPro – both honors came in 2020.

“I’m a big fan of Michigan and the west side of the state. I’ve been coming up to Pentwater since I was like 8 years old with my family,” Fox said. “I

met Joe Tanis about three years ago and he’s been gracious enough to let me use his facilities to train when I’m up here with my family.

“When I was a kid I grew up playing soccer and then got into kicking and punting in middle school. I always thought it would be the coolest thing in the world to kick or punt with an NFL kicker so now that I’m here I want to give them that experience that I wanted as a kid.”

Graham served as an NFL kicker for 15 different NFL franchises after going undrafted in the 2000 draft. Graham made his name with the Cincinnati Bengals where he was named to both the Pro Bowl and First-Team All-Pro roster in 2005. Graham also set the NFL record for tackles by a kicker with 11 in that same year.

Now a coach, Graham has done stints with Central Michigan University (special teams coach), Michigan State University (special teams intern)

and University of Florida (special teams quality control coach).

With a bevy of experience between the two, Hart football and head coach Joe Tanis were more than happy to have both join area athletes for a kicking clinic. During the three hour camp, athletes were taught everything from fundamentals to kicking mechanics.

“Jack had been using our weight room and he asked if there was anything he could do to help give back,” Tanis said. “We thought having a kicking camp would create a great experience and a lot of memories for kids in our program. I hope every kid comes away with something that’s going to make them better.”

Faces around the camp were those of pure joy as they took time to appreciate the time given by Fox and Graham. In turn, Fox and Graham took time to greet fans and sign autographs.

HART • HESPERIA • PENTWATER • SHELBY • WALKERVILLE

Hart’s football program hosted a camp for kickers and punters on Wednesday, June 28. Athletes from all age groups made their way to the Pirates’ stadium where they were coached by current Detroit Lions punter Jack Fox and former NFL kicker Shayne Graham.

• Brendan Samuels/Echo

Both Jack Fox and Shayne Graham worked with around 12 middle school and high school age kids to improve their punting and kicking skills. Graham and Fox even made time to sign autographs before, during and after the camp.

• Brendan Samuels/Echo

SPORTS

Teeing ff

The top shots from local golf courses

Benona Shores:

• Mike Davis (6/18)Hole in one on No. 10 from 177 yards with a seven iron.

• Jamin Koernke (6/20) - Eagle on No. 16 from 333 yards with a driver and wedge.

• Earl Steffes (6/20)Eagle on No. 16 from 333 yards with a driver and six iron.

• Shawn Pranger (6/22) - Eagle on No. 16 from 333 yards out with a driver and putter.

No Breaks

While track and field season has wrapped up for most high school athletes, Hart’s Kellen Kimes continues to make strides into the summer months. Kimes, now a Hart graduate, set a new state of Michigan record throw of 223-4. Kimes posted the mark in Eugene, Ore. while competing at the Nike Outdoor National Track Meet. • Contributed Photo

No Breaks

Shelby’s Navea Gauthier hasn’t stopped competing since helping the Tigers’ volleyball program to the state quarterfinals in November. Gauthier spent last weekend at the AAU Nationals in Orlando and came away with a third place team finish in the 17’s Open Division. Individually, Gauthier was awarded an All-Tournament Team recognition and also named an All-American.

• Contributed Photo

PALC readies for the next 20 years

After celebrating its first 20 years of providing a well-equipped space for area residents to utilize their handiwork skills and teach others who want to learn, the Pentwater Artisan Learning Center is readying itself for the next 20 years. Since 2012, PALC members have complet-

ed a great many projects for personal use or donation. And numerous community projects in Pentwater and the surrounding area have benefitted from their collective volunteer efforts.

Members recently gathered at the Center to learn the results of an inspection of the Center’s impressive inventory of equipment. This includes woodworking lathes, planes, sanders, saws, routers, and edgers; metalworking milling machines, presses, cutting tools, and welding; glassmaking kilns, cutters, and soldering irons; paint spray booths,

brushes, paints, canvas, and varnish; pottery spin tools, turning tables, and kilns; and weaving looms, needles, and combs.

They were told that the Center has just created the "Pentwater Artisan Learning Center –Equipping for the Next 20 Years Campaign Fund" at the Community Foundation for Oceana County, where donations can be made to refresh, update, or replace the Artisan Center’s working assets.  The overall campaign goal is $250,000, with the first $125,000 being used to correct equipment that’s the most outdat-

ed, non-working, unsafe or unrepairable.  The 501(c)3 PALC welcomes tax deductible donations, bequeaths, endowments, and corporate matching gifts. More information can be found at https:// oceanafoundation.org/ give/our-funds.

The PALC is an 11,000 square foot, wellequipped workspace for metal and woodworking, painting, pottery, glassmaking, crafts, weaving, basket making, sewing and more. Its members from Pentwater and the surrounding area work in a safe environment where they create, socialize, learn, and share

their knowledge with others who want to learn new crafts. The annual cost of membership is

$150. More information is found at https://pentwaterartisan.org/, or call 231.869.5323.

Roger Wills of Ludington is shown with a gorilla that he’s spent 60 hours so far hand-carving from a block of basswood. Next, he will paint it, guided by the color photos and drawings. • Contributed Photo

Barry Freed shows Harry Brodbeck, both of Pentwater, an assortment of his hand-carved wood bowls.

• Contributed Photo