The Oceana Echo - Volume 2, Issue 20, Oct. 11, 2024 by theoceanaecho

Oceana Echo

Thank you to this week’s Lead This Legacy donors

Roger and Arlene Ehrean

INSIDE THIS WEEK’S WHITE LAKE MIRROR: Stephanie Ware appointed next Chamber director

READER: SUBSCRIPTIONS AVAILABLE

Bob Pochyla’s life exemplifies friendship to all

By Sharon Hallack

The Oceana Echo Community Correspondent

The name “Bob Pochyla” of Shelby is found synonymous with many worthy endeavors…Korean War veteran, Shelby Township Clerk and the Shelby Optimists. After spending an hour with him recently, it was discovered his name could also be synonymous with words/phrases like faith-filled, hard-working, humble and community-minded. Words that have defined his life, his family, his work and his service.

Pochyla, who has served with the Shelby Optimists for the past 75 years, was recently honored, along with fellow Shelby Optimists Jack Cheever (54 years), Bruce Fox (54 years) and Paul Inglis (52 years) at the organization’s district meeting Aug. 17 in Ann Arbor. The Shelby Optimists Club is only one of 33 Michigan clubs that can boast being over 50 years old.

“I have known Bob and Ronny Pochyla for nearly 70 years,” Inglis said. “Bob’s commitment to the area youth was reflected by his words and deeds as a

member of the Shelby Optimist Club. He has always been a firm believer that, by participating in and taking a leadership role in the Shelby Optimist Club, he could make a significant difference in the lives of the youth of the community. He was extremely proud of the successes that were achieved by the area’s young people, who benefited directly from the support of the Club.”

When approached about being featured in The Oceana Echo for his recent recognition, he was a bit taken aback and thought it totally unnecessary. However, after a little coaxing, he was able to share thoughts about the past, the present and the future. Something The Oceana Echo is honored to be able to share.

Pochyla, 95, was born in Muskegon and moved to Shelby as a young lad, shortly after his father died. He and his brother Jerry moved in with their Polish grandparents, while his mother continued to work in Muskegon to earn their living. Later he would move in with his aunt and uncle and work in their clothing and shoe repair store in downtown Shelby.

In 1947, he graduated from Shelby High School, where he was very active in sports. Following graduation, he continued to work in town and became active in the Chamber of Commerce, where he said he was asked to be the treasurer and began writing articles for them.

“A guy came from Detroit, I can’t remember his name, but he had a cottage at Stony Lake, and he wanted to organize an Optimist Club in our area. There was a meeting at the high school, and the cham-

ber thought I should go. I joined the Optimists on Nov. 9, 1948. The club was called ‘the friend of boys’ back then. Right away, I became the secretary. We met every week. I typed the minutes, mimeographed them (“duplicated” them using a stencil fitted around an inked drum) and mailed them for three cents a piece to the 45 members in the group,” he said.

Pochyla remembers how in 1951 he and his brother decided to enlist in the Army Air Force and how the Shelby Optimists gave him a huge sendoff. He was stationed in Tokyo, Japan, where he became the custodian of the Air Force’s Sierra Service Club, a place for soldiers to have their R & R while on leave. “The club was in a beautiful old bank and was not on base, Pochyla recalled. “I had 150 Japanese employees I was in charge of,” he said.

While he was honored to serve in this capacity and enjoyed working with the Japanese people, he was glad to be on his way home in 1954. But not before being given a special commendation award, honored with a huge employee surprise send-off and a chauffeured ride back to his ship. As with any veteran, time spent in the military changes a person. For Pochyla, he was able to use, as he would later admit, his “God-given” skills to lead and invest in people’s lives in service to our country.

Back at home, he met and married his wife Veronica and raised four wonderful children, and next year they will celebrate 70 years of marriage. While working fulltime and raising a family, Pochyla remained a strong community member; from joining the chamber and the Optimist Club, to being active in the Goodfellows “Old Newsies” and in his church.

“I try to go to every meeting (Optimist Club) still, but I have someone else drive me,” he said. Besides holding the offices of president and secretary numerous times, he has

also had the privilege of leading the group in prayer at the beginning of every meeting.

As often happens in these types of interviews, people eventually open up and start to share on a deeper level. It is obvious the Pochylas have a deep faith, and they have been long-time members of Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Church in Shelby. “By prayer and all, I believe God will keep us. We believe in heaven and eternity and pray every day,” Bob shared.

Pochyla was honored to be recognized at the recent convention in Ann Arbor. “I wasn’t expecting all that,” he said humbly. He just thought he was going to the annual convention. But he ended up being recognized as the longest-living charter member of the Shelby Club.

An honor he would just as soon sweep under the rug. “God made me this way, and He’s the one who’s given me the opportunity. I could go tomorrow. The recognition was nice, but there’s other deserving people. It made me feel good (over the years) to get involved and help others. I didn’t have that growing up,” he said.

“Besides being true to our Optimist Club philosophy of being a friend of youth, Bob is a friend to everyone. He’s just a naturally warm, friendly, supportive and positive person. He doesn’t deny that age has its challenges, but he chooses to focus on all he still has to offer. That includes the obvious enthusiasm, love and care he extends to his family and community every day. He’s an inspiration,” fellow Optimist Linda Kotzian said.

“It’s not about me, it’s about the Optimists. I’m so grateful for the recognition, glad to be a part of the community, glad to be accepted,” Pochyla said gratefully.

The Shelby Optimists meet monthly on every other Wednesday, from mid-September through mid-May, at the Stony Lake Yacht Club from 7-8 p.m. Membership is open and all are welcome.

Bob Pochyla

The 2024 Shelby Homecoming King Devin Exton and Queen Audrey Horton were crowned during halftime at this past Friday’s junior varsity football game. Shelby beat Holton 42-28. • Brendan Samuels/Echo

• Connie VanDerZanden and Paul Erickson/Echo and Contributed

Places of Oceana County: Stony Lake Channel

By Janet Hasselbring

The Oceana Echo Community Correspondent

Stony Lake Channel Beach sits at the point where Stony Lake flows into Lake Michigan. It’s a great spot for swimming and fishing, and where you ditch the tube you’ve ridden from Stony Lake to the Big Lake. It’s late summer, and my Welshie, Snack, and I are the only ones here. We hike the short distance from the parking lot over the dune and sit facing Lake Michigan. The water shimmers and glistens in the mid-afternoon sun. I’m surrounded by water, blue sky, dunes, waterbirds and plants. Unspoiled, pristine, it’s a place set apart - one of my favorite destinations. I feel peaceful here, rooted, connected, “at home.”

Just as the setting of a story affects its characters and plot, we, too, are influenced, consciously, or subconsciously, by our surroundings – our homes, workplaces, recreational venues, vacation spots and places we shop, dine out and visit.

One of the clearest examples of the importance of setting in story is Alice in Wonderland. When Alice falls down a rabbit hole, she enters a bizarre dreamlike place that includes a beautiful yet inaccessible garden, a pool formed by her own tears, and a magical mushroom with the power to alter her size. Alice wonders if she has fallen to the center of the earth

or found Antipodes. “I wonder which way I ought to go?” she queries. “That depends on where you want to go,” chides the Cheshire Cat. “I don’t much care as long as I get somewhere,” she replies. Author Lewis Carroll and Alice made up the word “jabberwocky” just to describe this surreal whimsical “somewhere,” where geography and logic are turned upside down. “Some say to survive here, you need to be mad as a hatter, which, luckily, I am,” says the Mad Hatter. What would Alice in Wonderland be without the “wonder” land?

My life would not be the same without this place. My bond with Stony Lake Channel goes back to my childhood, when my mother would take me and my sisters to the big lake and channel for a few hours of respite from her daily chores on the farm (site of present-day Country Dairy). This is where we had family picnics and outings; where we viewed amazing sunsets.

Many years later, Stony Lake Channel was the final stop for weekly summer outings with my four grandboys. Starting the day at Country Dairy, they’d enjoy a bottomless cup of chocolate milk, frolic at the playground, visit the calves, climb hay bales, and if they were lucky, spot a Tom. Next was a stop at Lewis Farm Market, where they’d feed the goats, pet the animals and visit the many farm attractions. Then on to Stony Lake Channel, where we’d set up camp for the rest of the day.

GOLDEN TOWNSHIP

Synopsis of Meeting October 10, 2024

Regular Meeting called to order at 7:30 PM. Present: Carl Fuehring, Connie Cargill, Rachel Iteen, Bill Kolenda, Doug Dykstra and about 15 guests. Absent: None Items approved:

• Minutes of Last month’s Township Board Meeting

• Bills Approved for Payment

• Snowplowing and Mowing Bids

• A & A Surveying Bid

Thank you, Carl Fuehring, for 50 years of Service Meeting adjourned at 8:00 p.m. Copies of meeting minutes are available from the township and approved minutes on our website, www.goldentownship.org.

- Rachel Iteen, Clerk

Nostalgia washes over me as I remember. Kairos moments - having lunch, building sand castles, finding rocks and crabs, playing King of the Mountain with innertubes and taking a dip in the big lake. As the sun began its western descent, we’d pack up, tired and sandy, and head for the car and home.

These are memories I’ll cherish forever. I think they will too. In a card, written after high school graduation, my oldest grandson thanked me for our weekly outings, which, he said, meant so much to him, growing up.

A tug on Snack’s leash brings me back to the present – Chronos time. Snack is ready for a walk on the beach. Then we’ll head home. but, we’ll be back because Stony Lake Channel is a place where I feel “at home.”

Thank You, Bill Glover, Sexton

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

Oceana County Historical & Genealogical Society is open Wednesdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Private tours are available by appointment. oceanahistory.org

Even more various historical tidbits

By Caleb Jackson

The Oceana Echo Community Columnist

This week I am back with more fascinating stories of the shorter variety stemming from the early days of our county, and I would like to open with the Barbers. Harvey Barber and his wife lived in a log house in a small clearing on section 31 of Ferry. One day, Harvey’s brother returned from the army and paid old Harvey a visit. He had with him “a Spencer carbine, a navy shooter and a sum of money, the amount of which is unknown,” according to Page’s History of Oceana.

But that’s not all Harvey’s brother brought home with him, as he returned sicker than a dog. He had “ague,” or as we know it today, malaria, and he was treating this disease with a medication known as quinine, a medication which he was unfortunately out of. Luckily for him, his sister-in-law, Harvey’s wife, told him that “she had found in Pingree’s shanty, in Ferry, between Maple Ridge and Reedville, a little vial, which she had buried in the cellar, but had saved the contents, which she was cer-

tain was quinine.”

Now I certainly hope nobody nowadays would ever consider taking mysterious, unmarked medications found in random shanty homes, but this was 1865, and Harvey’s brother examined the substance, concluded that it was quinine, and took a dose. Following this, he proceeded out of the house with Harvey to cut bean poles before he collapsed on the fence. Harvey brought him inside, where he died in a fit of convulsions.

As they were about to bury him, the neighbors got the word out to Dr. Hawley, who put together a jury and held an inquest. It was concluded the vial actually contained strychnine, but whether or not the Barber’s were guilty of an actual crime was never decided. Page’s History does mention that “an uncle of the Barbers had Harvey and wife arrested, but did not follow up the case.”

It also mentions that the Barbers “went to the bad” following all of this, with Harvey ending up in a state prison for stealing in Mason County, and his wife ending up in jail in Hart for theft as well.

Another interesting story out of Ferry is that of the first death in the town-

ship. According to the wishes of Patrick McFarland, he was to be buried in a Catholic cemetery after his death. And so, his body was conveyed through the woods some 60 miles by J. W. Sweet and his team of oxen, from Ferry all the way to Grand Rapids. McFarland’s widow had no money to pay for the burial, but upon hearing the circumstances, “the Catholics of Grand Rapids raised sufficient by subscriptions to pay all funeral expenses and a surplus for the widow.”

Leaving tales of death and murder aside, a slightly happier story comes to us from the early days of Greenwood Township. In 1857, one Benjamin Ish of Oceana was to marry one Ellen Cunningham from Muskegon. They invited all of their friends together for a celebration, and the clergyman to perform the ceremony was supposed to come from White River with the mail carrier. However, when the minister arrived, they learned that he was not ordained, and so his work would not be legal and irrevocable!

“Nothing daunted,” it is written, “the happy pair waiting until 3 o’clock next morning, when a trusty messenger arrived with old Mr. Stewart, a justice

of the peace, who lived five or six miles away in the wild woods of Newaygo. To make it legal—on a cold, chilly, star-lit night, under the canopy of heaven—the company crossed the road, and after crawling over a brush fence, stood on the soil of Newaygo, when the justice joined them as man and wife.” We are guaranteed that, as inauspicious as the marriage was, their union was a happy one.

OCH&GS reports nice turnout across multiple events

By Mort Wiegand The Oceana Echo Volunteer Contributor

The Golden Fair came to Mears last Friday. It was a nice

day with lots of onlookers. The Oceana County Historical & Genealogical Society would like to extend a sincere thank you to all who were in the parade. The Society hopes that everyone enjoyed the $2 ham-

burgers and fries at The Golden Eatery and toured the new red barn at the Mears Museum Complex.

Next, the ArtWalk came to Hart, Saturday, Oct. 5 and 38 folks went through the Chad-

wick-Munger House to check out the display of paintings of local scenes.

Back in Mears, at the United Methodist Church, the Volunteer Appreciation Dinner took place Tuesday, Oct. 8 with

27 attendees. The annual dinner is held to thank all of the volunteers for the Society who gave the gift of their time over the past summer.

Oceana Center Grange Agricultural Report for October 2024

By Phil Carter The Oceana Echo Agricultural Consultant

Harvest season continues in the Land of Oceana. It represents the culmination of a year’s worth of time, inputs and labor. Some harvests are mostly complete, with others continuing or starting.

Corn silage chopping is wrapping up; the apple harvest for many will end in a week or two. Combines have been running soybeans with low moisture readings and corn grain numbers are below 20 percent. Corn is considered dry at 15.5 percent mois-

ture. Squash continues to arrive at processing plants as well. We have been blessed with overall favorable harvest weather, although several very warm weeks tested harvest crews’ tolerance for heat.

All is not well in the southeastern U.S. The news media has covered the human suffering of Hurricane Helene while neglecting the agricultural aspects. Cotton bolls are opening in Georgia, absorbing moisture, making harvest very difficult. Several large broiler chicken facilities have been destroyed or heavily damaged. Flood conditions have shut down the processing facilities for these birds. Flood waters have made grain harvest impossible in many areas. Let’s not forget damaged and destroyed roads

and bridges, making moving commodities from the field impossible.

If this sounds bad, consider the apple growers in the Asheville, N.C. region which has been devastated by floods. Reports indicate many orchards are impossible to get to, and water depths as high as 13 feet are hard to picture. Those plantings will not survive these conditions. Complicating this is that flood insurance doesn’t cover such loss. There may be some USDA programs to help, but the loss will take years to recover from.

Remember to share the road with farm machinery this harvest season. We all want to return home safely every evening.

Ongoing

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

TUESDAYS: TOPS, Hart Wesleyan Church, 5 p.m.

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

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

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

1 st & 3 rd

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

1st & 3rd WEDNESDAYS: Hart VFW Post 1329 Burger/ Chicken/Brat/Ribs Night, 5-7 p.m., dine-in or carry out. Every other WEDNESDAY: Shelby Optimist Club meetings, Stony Lake Inn, 7-8 p.m., (September to May)

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

THURS-SAT: Pentwater Historical Museum open, 1-4 p.m.

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

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

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

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

Oct. 15 - Share Our Stories, Cemetery Walk, 1:30-2:45 p.m.

Saturdays: Celebrate worship gathering, 6:30 p.m.

Complete schedule at: theladdercommunitycenter.com

Oceana Center Grange Penny Fair this Saturday

The Oceana Center Grange invites the entire community to its 99th annual Penny Fair fundraiser event, Saturday, Oct. 12, starting at 7 p.m. in the historic grange hall located at 55 W. Scout Rd. in Hart. The evening will kick off with a short program and include a variety of acts followed by the traditional produce and baked goods auction upstairs, games for the kids, a sloppy joe lunch and pie for purchase downstairs. This year’s auction will once again be called by Ike McGhan. Enjoy the neighborhood competition as friends and neighbors try to outbid each other for fresh and locally-made baked goods, crafts, maple syrup, apple cider, and homegrown pumpkins, apples and other fall produce. Quilt raffle tickets will also be available for $1 each or $5 for six. This annual tradition hasn’t seen much change since the grange organized 119 years ago this coming January. Everyone is invited and welcome to attend, please contact Gordon Merten at 231-873-4459 with any questions.

First Responder Appreciation Breakfast is Oct. 19

First Baptist Church of Hart is hosting their annual First Responder Appreciation Breakfast on Saturday, Oct. 19, 2024. The free breakfast is open for all first responders throughout Oceana County and will be served from 7:30-9 a.m. Organizers welcome those who are willing to sacrificially serve our community to stop in, grab a bite to eat, a cup of coffee and allow them to serve you for all you do for our community. For more information, contact FBC at office@gofbchart.org.

NAF annual meeting planned for Tuesday in Hart

The annual meeting and election of officers for the board of the National Asparagus Festival (NAF) will be held Tuesday, Oct. 15, 2024 beginning at 6 p.m. in the City of Hart Community Center. All are welcome to attend.

Currently the board includes President Michele Amstutz of Mears, Vice President Mandy Achterhoff of Walkerville, Secretary Susan Merten of Hart and Treasurer Jesse Rickard of Whitehall (formerly of Mears). Amanda Klotz of Hart is also on the board. Board member positions are elected annually and do not have term limits.

“The NAF is excited to begin the planning for our 2025 festival. Our annual meeting will kick start our planning process with the election of board members, confirming festival dates and events for the 52nd festival. We plan to hold a public forum in January to gather ideas from the community,” Amstutz said.

The NAF meets monthly, with the date being dictated by schedules. If anyone is interested in attending meetings or becoming involved with next year’s festival, they should reach out on the NAF’s Facebook page. More information, including a contact form, can be found at www.nationalasparagusfestival.org.

Sharing stories of Cemetery Walks at The Ladder

All are invited to join us at The Ladder Community Center in Shelby on Tuesday, Oct. 15 from 1:30-2:45 p.m. for Share Our Stories (SOS). This month’s SOS theme will be “Cemetery Walk.” We will show a video of the historic 1996 Mears-Round Lake Cemetery Walk. Local author Betty Phillips’ book, “Cemetery Potpourri,” will also be available. It is a cemetery guide of historical burials and practices meant to help people understand memorials and the artwork found on them. It also contains detailed suggestions about how to plan a cemetery walk for those interested in having such an event in our community.

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+. Events are subject to change. To inquire about an event, or if you have ideas for future topics of interest for SOS, call The Ladder at 231259-0211. Visit theladdercommunitycenter.com to view all our upcoming events.

October

Oct. 11 - Hart Homecoming Parade, 4:30 p.m.

Oct. 12 - Pentwater Oktoberfest and COVE Home Tour, 10 a.m.

Oct. 12 - CEF Shoreline Pumpkin Party, the Ladder, 1-2:30 p.m.

Oct. 12 - Oceana Center Grange Penny Fair, Hart, 7 p.m.

Oct. 14 - Hesperia Comm. Library closed for staff in-service

Oct. 15 - Tech Time, Hesperia Comm. Library, 1:30-2:30 p.m., Board Meeting, Community Room, 4:30-6 p.m.

Oct. 15 - NAF annual meeting, Hart Comm. Center, 6 p.m.

Oct. 16 - Adult Book Club Movie, Hesp. Comm. Library, 5-7 p.m.

Oct. 17 - Matinee Movie, Hesp. Comm. Library, 1-3:30 p.m., Family Fun Night, Community Room, 6-7 p.m.

Oct. 18 - Story Time, Hesperia Comm. Library, 10-11 a.m.

Oct. 19 - First Responder Appreciation Breakfast, First Baptist Church in Hart, 7:30-9 a.m.

Oct. 19 - Halloween Party, Hesp. Comm. Library, 1-3 p.m.

Oct. 19 - Miss Natalie’s Haven of Dance “Our Greatest Show” Dance Recital, Shelby High School Auditorium, 5 p.m.

Oct. 25 - Judge Brad Lambrix Retirement Recognition, Oceana County Courthouse, 100 S. State St., Hart, 2-4 p.m.

28th Annual Oktoberfest is Oct. 12 in Pentwater

Get ready for a day of fun and festivities as the Pentwater Chamber of Commerce hosts its 28th Annual Oktoberfest Saturday, Oct. 12. This year’s Oktoberfest has an exciting lineup of activities for all ages:

8-10 a.m.: Car Show Registration

9-10 a.m.: Stout Stumble 5K Check-In

10 a.m.: Stout Stumble 5K Walk & Run, Pentwater Municipal Marina, beer awaits participants at the finish line.

10 a.m. to 2 p.m.: Classic Car and Hot Rod Show - Hancock Street in Pentwater. 2 p.m.: Award Ceremony, at the Village Green, with categories including Best in Show, Best Interior, Best Paint Job, Best Engine Compartment, Post 1998, Driver’s Choice and Top Ten.

10 a.m. to 4 p.m.: COVE Home Tour (Annual Fundraiser)

Noon onward: Live music and Oktoberfest activities at the Village Cafe & Pub including a Chili Cook-Off, Big Ten Games on the Big Screen and more.

Afternoon: Live Music at the Antler Bar

9:30 p.m.: Karaoke at the Antler Bar

For more information and to register for specific events, visit www.pentwater.org.

COVE home tour in Pentwater set

for Oct. 12

The Pentwater Home Tour to benefit COVE will take place Saturday, Oct. 12. The homes will be available for touring from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tickets are $25 per person for those 13 and older and will be available at each of the six venues. Pre-sale tickets are available at Jilly’s Gallery, 226 Hancock St. and at Port View, 560 Hancock St. Tickets may also be purchased in front of the Pentwater Village Hall on Hancock Street and Jilly’s Gallery from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on the day of the home tour.

The ticket, in the form of a booklet and a wristband, includes a map and descriptions of the homes and information about COVE.

The 2024 Home Tour locations are: 188 Chester St. on Pentwater Lake, 174 S. Wythe St. in Pentwater, 90 W. First St. in Pentwater, two on W. Lowell St. at the end of the channel in Pentwater and 1045 Park St. in Pentwater.

2024

Fall Vendor/Craft Show

Saturday, Oct. 19 from 9 AM-3 PM

In Loving Memory of our Family, Friends and Neighbors

obituaries

James ‘Jim’ Robert Grieve Sr. December

4, 1944 ~ September 25, 2024

James “Jim” Robert Grieve Sr., 79, of Montague, passed away after a short battle with cancer on Wednesday, Sept. 25, 2024, surrounded by family. He was born Dec. 4, 1944, in Grand Haven, the son of Forest and Esther (Ferris) Grieve. He was raised in Montague.

On December 13, 1968, Jim married Merry Jager, and they spent 55 years together. They settled in Montague to raise their family.

Jim enlisted in the United States Army in 1964 and served for two years in Germany as a mechanic. After returning home, he completed his GED through Montague High School. Jim worked as a lineman through the IBEW and as a welder for Fleet Engineering, White Lake Foundry and TechCast. Jim also had a pawn shop, G & G Pawn and Outlet, in Muskegon, for three years. Jim retired from work in 2000.

Jim enjoyed tinkering in his garage, working on old cars, driving his 1960 Chevy truck in Cruz’n, riding his Harley Davidson, hunting and playing cribbage. Most of all, he enjoyed spending time with his family. James was a faithful member of White Lake Baptist Church where he greeted everyone as they entered the church.

Jim is survived by: his wife, Merry Grieve; children, Jimme (Brandy) Grieve and Ann (Randy) Kiesgen; Fred (Michelle) Russell; Misty (Jason) Jaekel; and Tatum Grieve. James had 16 grandchildren: Aaliyah, Markell, Zach, Reese, Corbin, Katelyn, Zane, Knox, Avery, Joslynn, Elijah, Isaac, Titus, Xavier, Jerry and Temperance; along with many nieces and nephews on both sides of his family.

James was preceded in death by: his parents, Forest and Esther Grieve; sister, Jill Bosch; and cousin, L.D. Grieve.

In accordance with James’s wishes, cremation has taken place and the family will be Celebrating the Life of James privately.

In lieu of flowers, the family would request donations be sent to White Lake Baptist Church in James’s memory.

Beacon Cremation & Funeral Service, White Lake Chapel, is in charge of arrangements. www.beaconfh.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 on Increasing Property Taxes

The Township Board of the CRYSTAL TOWNSHIP will hold a public hearing on a proposed increase of 0.2752 mills in the operating tax millage rate to be levied on property in 2024.

The hearing will be held on Monday, October 21, 2024 at 6:30 p.m. at the Town Hall, 1499 E. Hammett Rd. Hart, MI.

The date and location of the meeting to take action on the proposed additional millage will be announced at this public meeting.

If adopted, the proposed additional millage will increase operating revenues from ad valorem property taxes 5.10% over such revenues generated by levies permitted without holding a hearing. If the proposed additional millage rate is not approved, the operating revenue will increase by 0.59% over the preceding year’s operating revenue.

The taxing unit publishing this notice, and identified below, has complete authority to establish the number of mills to be levied from within its authorized millage rate.

This notice is published by: CRYSTAL TOWNSHIP 1499 E. Hammett Rd. Hart, MI 49420 231-855-2065

EUCHARIST – 10:00 am stpetersmontague@gmail.com stpetersbythelake.weebly.com

Kurt Overway StStephensShelby@gmail.com St. Peter’s-By-The-Lake Episcopal Church 8435 Old Channel Trail, Montague 616-894-0172

2024 Hart High School Homecoming Court

A Faithful Focus: Kurt Overway

By Sharon Hallack

The Oceana Echo

Community Correspondent

St. Stephens Lutheran Church, located in the Benona countryside, officially welcomed new pastor Kurt Overway of Montague, on June 23. The church has been using parttime, semi-retired and retired pastors for a number of years. Overway is currently working full-time in Ludington and working part-time as St. Stephens new pastor.

Originally from Holland, Mich. Overway shared, “I’m a true Dutchman.” He completed his undergraduate studies in 1982 at Concordia Lutheran College, now Concordia University, in Ann Arbor. He met his wife Judy at Concordia, and the two were married in 1981. He received his graduate degree from Concordia Seminary in St. Louis, Mo., in 1987.

“My first calling was to a dual parish, St. Peters in Wymore, Neb., and First Lutheran located 30 miles away in Summerfield, Kansas. It was culture shock going from Lake Michigan to cornfields,” Overway laughed. He ministered in the corn belt for three and a half years before being called back to West Michigan, where he was instrumental in starting a mission church, the New Hope Lutheran Church, in Hudsonville. While there, he, along with other members of New Hope, helped to start another church, Christ Our Savior Lutheran Church in Holland.

“By 1995, I was getting burned out. I left full-time ministry to spend more time with my growing family and went to work for Prince Automotive, now Johnson Controls. Ten years ago, I moved to UAJC Automotive Whitehall Industries, in Ludington, where I am currently Director of Quality,” he said. By 2021, Overway had been outside of full-time ministry for 27 years. While working full time at UAJC, Overway answered God’s call on his heart to get back into church ministry. He became involved at Faith Lutheran in Whitehall, where he served as Pastor Emeritus on a volunteer basis, as

well as providing pulpit supply for other parishes, until he received the call to St. Stephens Lutheran in Shelby earlier this year.

When asked what the circumstances were around his going back into full-time Christian ministry, he shared, “The call has always been there; I kept it off to the side and just hadn’t acted on it til four years ago.”

He admits he struggled, and he felt like he was saying “no” to God, but God continued to say “yes.” He reached a point in his relationship with Him when Overway confessed, “You’ve been right all these years” and started the reinstatement process.

“It wasn’t easy,” he said. “There were interviews, letters of reference to secure and hard questions to answer. Part of reinstatement involves remorse and repentance, but also acceptance and forgiveness. It is me saying ‘yes’ to God and the church, and the church agreeing it’s time too.”

Since his installation on June 23, Pastor Overway has been busy getting settled and getting to know the St. Stephens community. “The church, built in 1870, has seen lots of transition with the different generations. But we are growing again,” he said.

Since coming on board, Pastor Kurt has helped to form a “social outreach” group where several members connected with the community at the New Era Fall Street Festival. “It was incredibly fun. It’s probably the best thing our

church has done in years. We had a prayer booth and caught up with old friends and neighbors, while meeting new friends and neighbors. It was a way to get our name out there.”

The church is also excited about hosting a “Trunk or Treat” at the end of October and a “Praise & Pies” the Tuesday before Thanksgiving. The church is in the process of starting a youth group, which Overway is very excited about. “To see the youth energized in church is an awesome thing to see. I am looking forward to taking a group to the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod national youth gathering ‘Endure’ next July. It’s a lot of fun,” he said.

Like many other churches, the church has been live streaming services since Covid, and is now utilizing social media to reach into the community as well.

It is evident after speaking with Pastor Kurt that he loves the Lord, he loves people, he is highly gifted in administration, doesn’t take himself too seriously, and has a very supportive wife, an ideal combination that will serve him well as he begins this next chapter in his life serving in Shelby.

Overway’s Lutheran title is “Worker Priest” because he works full time at UAJC and part time for St. Stephens. He plans to officially retire from his job at UAJC in 2026. Hinting at his age, he added he’s “too pumped up” to consider retirement.

The Overways have three grown children. He and his wife enjoy living in Montague, where his wife Judy loves to garden, and he is just a 15-minute walk to where his sailboat is docked on White Lake.

St. Stephens is located at 7400 W. Johnson Rd. in Shelby. Visit St. Stephens Lutheran Church on Facebook for event information and www.ststephenshelby.org for more about the Lutheran faith and how to contact Pastor Kurt. Worship is held every Sunday at 9:30 a.m. (outside weather permitting Memorial Day to Labor Day), followed by Bible class at 11 a.m.

Tails of Hope

At 5 years old, Penny is a gorgeous calico with a heart as warm as her multi-colored fur. This little lady is the definition of friendly—whether you’re curling up on the couch, working from home or just enjoying a quiet moment, Penny will be right there, purring her approval.

Penny loves chin scratches, cozy laps and watching the world go by from the nearest sunny window. Penny gets along well with other cats, but she’s just as happy being the queen of her castle.

Looking for a sweet, affectionate feline who will fill your home with love and her adorable little chirps? Penny’s your girl! Adopt Penny today and let her brighten up your life with her vibrant personality and soft purrs.

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

The students on the 2024 Hart High School Homecoming Court are, front row, from left: Izabela Hernandez, Reese Smith, Addison Hain, Lexie Nienhuis, Harriet Kidder, Breslyn Porter, Kelsey Copenhaver and Antonia Ross. Back row, from left, Cole Slotman, Keaghan Monroe, Kyle Greiner, Alex Hicks, Carter Ramseyer, Emmanuel Hertzler, Carsen Jensen, Sarah Kranz and Marcos Roldan Galicia. The school’s homecoming parade is Friday, Oct. 11 at 4:30 p.m. through downtown Hart • Contributed Photo

Pastor Kurt Overway

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

CUSTOMER SERVICE: (800)

By JoAnn Derson

By Lucie Winborne

• On Oct. 14, 1957, The Everly Brothers scored their first No. 1 hit on the Billboard charts with “Wake Up, Little Susie.” Though the lyrics described a perfectly innocent scenario, the song still managed to stir up enough controversy to get it banned in Boston for a time.

• On Oct. 15, 2004, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration ruled that hearse manufacturers would no longer be required to install anchors for child-safety seats in their vehicles, though the rare models that contain rear seats are not technically “funeral coaches” and are therefore subject to the same child-restraint rules as other carmakers.

• On Oct. 16, 1991, George Jo Hennard drove his truck through a Luby’s Cafeteria window in Killeen, Texas, before opening fire on a lunch crowd of more than 100, killing 23 and injuring 20 more. He was shot several times by police before fatally turning the gun on himself. No clear reason for one of the deadliest shootings in U.S. history was ever determined.

• On Oct. 17, 1835, Texans approved a resolution to create the Texas Rangers, a corps of armed and mounted lawmen designed to “range and guard the frontier between the Brazos and Trinity Rivers.”

• On Oct. 18, 1977, New York Yankees outfielder Reggie Jackson hit three home runs in a row off of three consecutive pitches from three different pitchers — a feat only Babe Ruth had ever previously pulled off — in the sixth game of the World Series against the Los Angeles Dodgers.

• On Oct. 19, 1796, an essay by a writer calling himself “Phocion” appeared in the Gazette of the United States, in which presidential candidate Thomas Jefferson was accused of carrying on an affair with one of his enslaved workers. Phocion turned out to be former Treasury Secretary Alexander Hamilton.

• On Oct. 20, 1984, Monterey Bay Aquarium, one of the largest in the world, opened in California. Amongst its many firsts, the aquarium holds the distinction of being the only one in the world able to keep a great white shark captive for more than 16 days.

• Fill your salt and pepper shakers a fourth of the way with uncooked white rice. Dry rice will allow the salt or pepper to flow more freely from the shaker. If your shaker is opaque, you can tell when it’s time to add more salt or pepper when the shaker starts to rattle.

• Mark old toothbrushes with masking tape so you can tell the difference between cleaning brushes and those you use for your teeth. You can clean a toothbrush in the dishwasher. Put it with the silverware.

• Because fabric softeners can leave residue in the dryer’s lint trap, clean yours out at least every other month. Just scrub with plain old soap and water.

• “Add this to the list of wonderful cleaners for wood floors: tea. Just brew a couple of cups and use the tea as you would your regular wood floor cleaner. It’s nice and shiny afterward.” — P.L. in Oregon

• Use a turkey baster to “squirt” pancake batter into your frying pan. Mix the batter as normal and unscrew the top of the baster to load. You can use it to make letters for fun kids’ breakfasts. No drips!

• If you have trouble opening the lid on glass jars, try using a pair of standard dishwashing gloves. They work to grip both the lid and the jar. They work especially well if your hands are the least bit moist. — D.Y. in Pennsylvania

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

By Lucie Winborne

• There’s a surgical procedure called selective amygdalohippocampectomy that removes half of the brain’s amygdala — and with it, much of the patient’s sense of fear.

• Obituary writers have their own awards, which are called The Grimmys.

• Londoners in the 1600s were advised to keep “fart jars” — consisting of trapped fart odors — on hand to combat bubonic plague. The idea was that the potent smell would somehow purify the air!

• During World War II, the term “security blanket” was slang for measures meant to keep military information secret, or covered up.

• Future Martians might marvel at the Valles Marineris (a.k.a. Mariner Valley) the same way Earthlings marvel at the Grand Canyon. The huge rift is more than eight times the length of the Grand Canyon, and four times as deep.

• The Eiffel Tower leans slightly toward the shade on sunny days.

• Forbes estimates that Barbie’s Dream House would be worth around $16 million if it were real. The three-story house has seven rooms, an elevator, a garage and a pool.

• In 1897, Indiana state legislators tried to pass a bill that would have legally redefined the value of pi as 3.2.

• A game show in Japan featured one item in a room that was replaced with a look-alike item made of chocolate or other candy. Contestants would try to find it by biting into various objects.

• The ancient Greeks believed that pearls were the hardened tears of joy from Aphrodite, the goddess of love.

• Elton John has pianos named after Aretha Franklin, Nina Simone and Diana Krall.

• There’s a five-story, blood-red waterfall in Antarctica.

Thought for the Day: “The greatness of a man lies not in how much wealth he acquires, but in his integrity and his ability to affect those around him positively.” — Bob Marley © 2024 King Features Synd., Inc.

Adan Cruz breaks assist record for Hart boys soccer program

By: Brendan Samuels

The Oceana Echo Sports Editor

Since the start of the 2024 season, the goal for Hart’s boys soccer team has been to win, and find a way to get senior Adan Cruz into the record books. Both of those marks were achieved Friday, Oct. 4 when Cruz became the all-time leader in assists for the program in a 3-2 win over Wyoming Potter’s House Christian.

Cruz entered this year within reaching distance of hitting 31 career assists, the mark that led Hart and was set by Tony Rayo in 2022. Much to the surprise of his head coach Joe Gilbert, it took until the end of the regular season for Cruz to claim the record as his own.

An outstanding performance that was highlighted by midfield dominance allowed Hart to take control of their matchup with Potter’s House. Though they looked composed in the first half, it wasn’t until 7:30 remained in that period that the Pirates were able to break the scoreless affair.

Cruz set up a corner kick at that mark, but instead of finding a teammate for an assisted goal, he did it all himself. Cruz hit a Trivella – a shot taken with the outside part of the foot, in an effort to gain

more of a curve – and watched the ball curl into the net for a 1-0 lead.

A stout defensive lineup consisting of Carter Ramseyer, Miguel Escamilla, Bronx Jones, Adrial Belmares and Joe Osorio, only allowed one shot on target during the first half. That allowed senior keeper JJ Bizon to remain clean and comfortable in front of the net for the initial 40 minutes.

The second half didn’t start as well as the first for Hart. Potter’s House showed a renewed vigor and attacked the Pirates early. An early turnover saw Potter’s House gain a one-on-one with Bizon, and though he gave a valiant effort, the score was tied at 1-1.

The Pumas continued to attack, earning another one-on-one with Bizon. This time Bizon made a key save to keep the score knotted up.

With 17:30 remaining in play, Cruz made a push for the record books. Taking off down the left half of the field, Cruz cut toward the goal and put a pass in play to Adrian Belmares. Adrian put the ball away, giving Hart a 2-1 lead and Cruz a spot in history.

Potter’s House didn’t allow the celebration to last through the final

Record Books continued on page 10

SPORTS

HART

Big plays spark Shelby JV to first ‘Friday Night Lights’ victory

By: Brendan Samuels

The Oceana Echo Sports Editor

SHELBY – Rarely – if ever – does a junior varsity football team get the chance to play under the lights on Fridays during the fall. Shelby’s JV team was given that prime slot on Homecoming week, taking advantage with a 42-28 win over Holton, Friday, Oct. 4. Just two weeks ago, the Red Devils had both varsity and JV teams. Circumstances forced them to cancel the remainder of the varsity season, leaving Shelby without an opponent for its Homecoming game. With such little time to make changes to the schedule, Shelby opted to move the JV contest

between themselves and Holton from Thursday to Friday, giving a host of underclassmen the unique opportunity to play on the biggest stage.

“We prepare our guys the same way every week and make sure they’re ready to play. We still go out and screw things up,” Shelby JV football Assistant Coach and varsity Head Coach Phil Fortier said. “We had some personnel issues in the first half, but that’s JV football. The guys were thrilled to be out here. In a weird way, the varsity guys were thrilled to be in the stands and cheer them on. The varsity definitely missed playing, but hopefully we get the extra time to heal up and get ready for Manistee.”

Though 14 of the 23 players that suited up were freshmen or sophomores, Shelby JV Head Coach Forrest Courtright and his staff pulled some juniors down to increase their numbers.

Among those varsity players was Brody Fes-

senden, a running back and linebacker who gets significant reps on the varsity squad. Fessenden flexed his big play potential early, stepping in front of a pass from

Shelby Football continued on page 11

Students pack Shelby’s gym, create new tradition for volleyball program

By: Brendan Samuels

The Oceana Echo Sports Editor

SHELBY – On Thursday, Oct. 3, the bleachers in Shelby High School’s gym were quite

possibly the fullest they’ve ever been. Students from every corner of the district marched inside at 1 p.m. and took time to rattle the ceiling as they cheered on the first ever Community Game between Shelby and Ravenna’s volleyball teams.

“This is just good for the sport of volleyball,” Shelby Head Coach Tom Weirich said. “We’re gonna share this with our conference now and hopefully do more of these things to showcase volleyball.” With homecoming celebrations in full swing, crowds of neon pink and green – Thurs-

New Traditions continued on page 10

Shelby’s junior varsity football team, led by sophomore quarterback Jaylin Henderson (16) run out on the field for a Homecoming meeting with Holton, Friday, Oct. 11. • Brendan Samuels/ECHO

Shelby sophomore Elijah Dashiell hauls in a pass while a Holton defender attempts to bring him to the ground. • Brendan Samuels/ECHO

Shelby volleyball celebrated its first Community Game, hosting the entire school district in the high school gym for an afternoon matchup with Ravenna. The Tigers defeated the Bulldogs in three sets. • Brendan Samuels/ECHO

Adan Cruz (middle) poses with teammates, from left to right, Emmanuel Ortega, JJ Bizon, Carter Ramseyer and Tyler Larios-Mendez. Cruz moved to 33 career assists in a 3-2 win over Wyoming Potter’s House Christian, moving him into first place in program history. • Contributed Photo

New Traditions

day’s spirit week theme – were at full throat. That seemed to fuel Shelby early as they shot out in front of the Bulldogs with a dominant first set performance.

Shelby senior Navea Gauthier –as she so often does – led the attack for Shelby in that set, but a new face showed promise. Freshman Jayna Burmeister found a hefty amount of action on the outside opposite Gauthier, and made a few quality kills to separate the Tigers.

“Navea is a unicorn, but our freshman Jayna Burmeister is really coming on strong now,” Weirich said. “She’s been putting in some extra work after practice and getting comfortable. She was an athlete, but she just wasn’t a volleyball player. Now, she’s both and that’s good for us in the future.”

That ended with a 25-9 win for Shelby, setting the tone for what would be a unique, but challenging day for the Tigers.

Large crowds are expected once the postseason tournaments arrive, and many of Shelby’s athletes are accustomed to playing volleyball in late October. For seniors Gauthier and Audrey Horton, along with returning juniors Kylie Brown, Ariana Garza and Brylee Friedman, the crowd noise likely wasn’t too much of a distraction. But for newcomers Delanie Smith, Isabella Rudat and Burmiester, that level of strident noise surrounding them was something new.

Harnessing the power being pumped onto the court from the fans above was something that Shelby struggled with after the first set. The Tigers fought back and forth with Ravenna, exchanging leads multiple times.

“There was so much energy in the gym and we had to harness it,” Weirich said. “Game one, I felt like we did and then the wind came out of us a little bit. The hype of this has been going for the past three weeks, but until you feel it you don’t know how you’re going to react to it.

“We wanted to do one of these right now, because if we get into the postseason and get on a little bit of a run

continued from page 9

– the further you get, the bigger the crowds get. You have to be able to not be overwhelmed by it.”

Shelby was able to gain control as both teams crossed 20 points, but Ravenna made a late push, falling just shy of pushing the second set into extra points. In the end, Shelby held on, taking a 25-22 win and a 2-0 lead in sets.

The Tigers regained some composure in the third set, but Ravenna kept things close. With most of the younger students heading back to school to end their day and head home, the gym got noticeably quieter. Ultimately, Shelby was able to claim the 25-19 victory in that frame, pushing them out to a 3-0 sweep.

Shelby was led by Gauthier who posted team-leading marks in kills (25), blocks (3) and aces (3) along with 11 digs. Burmeister recorded five kills while Friedman led in digs (16) and Horton in assists (32). Rudat added one block and Brown had three aces.

The win pushed Shelby to 16-7-2 overall and kept them a perfect 5-0 in the West Michigan Conference Rivers Division.

Shelby 3, Ravenna 0 Walkerville 1, Baldwin 3 Pentwater 3, Bear Lake 1

Tuesday, Oct. 8:

Hart 3, Ravenna 0

Shelby 3, N. Muskegon 0

Hesperia 3, Holton 0

Pentwater 0, BRCC 3

Shelby Football

Holton’s quarterback and taking an interception the opposite way for a touchdown.

“(Fessenden) is only a sophomore, but he understands the game,” Fortier said. “His dad coaches with us and he’s been around the game a lot. He has great instincts and he plays super hard. As a defender, he comes at you and wants to make every play.”

With a 6-0 lead, youth and inexperience hurt the JV Tigers – particularly on special teams. Shelby scored two touchdowns early in the game and would have held a firm advantage. Unfortunately, the Tigers allowed touchdown returns following both of their initial touchdowns, leaving their lead at 14-12.

Holton’s ability to answer Shelby on big play strikes of their own kept things competitive early. Shelby sophomore quarterback Jaylin Henderson extended Shelby’s lead to 20-12 on a 51-yard touchdown run, only to watch the Red Devils break off a 55-yard rushing touchdown on the next drive.

That trend continued into the second quarter. Fessenden capped off a drive from Shelby’s offense with a 10-yard touchdown run. Holton responded with another long touchdown on the ground, taking off for a 41-yard score.

Fessenden made a big play to close out scoring in the first half, scooping a Holton fumble and taking it 52-yards to the house.

The Tigers walked into halftime with a 34-24 lead.

The third quarter saw much less fireworks than the previous two, as only one touchdown was scored in that frame. Henderson connected with favorite target Elijah Dashiell for a 67-yard touchdown pass, putting Shelby in firm control.

Henderson and Dashiell were electric in the passing game, connecting on countless deep balls. That included a circus catch from Dashiell, who hauled in a pass despite being dragged to the ground early on a pass interference call.

“(Big plays from Henderson and Dashiell) dug us out of a lot of mistakes,” Fortier said. “Jaylin throws the best deep ball in our program and Elijah just competes. He wants to catch every ball, make every tackle, and he just constantly wants the ball. (Dashiell) is just a

warrior and a competitor.”

The fourth and final quarter ended the way the game had begun, with Fessenden in the endzone. The Shelby sophomore punched in one more touchdown on the ground, bringing his total to four on the night, lifting the Tigers to a 48-24 win on Homecoming.

It was an odd Homecoming for Shelby, but one that was celebrated all the same.

The varsity team will be back in action Friday, Oct. 11 as they travel north for a meeting with the Mariners of Manistee.

“We’ve framed it as No. 1, we’re gonna get better this week,” Fortier said. “We’re 3-3 with the forfeit (by Holton) and we’re happy with that position right now, but we’ve got a lot of things to clean up. Going into next week, we’re just hitting our stride.”

Hart (JV) 6, MCC 27

Hart 12, MCC 35

Shelby (JV) 42, Holton 28

Hesperia 10, Ravenna 42

Oct.

Monday, Oct. 7:

Tuesday, Oct. 8:

Shelby freshman Jayna Burmeister (left) and senior Navea Gauthier (right) attempt to block a Ravenna attack at the net. • Brendan Samuels/ECHO

Shelby sophomore running back Brody Fessenden tosses a Holton defender to the side as he rumbles down the sideline. Fessenden accounted for four total touchdowns in a 42-28 win over Holton’s JV Friday, Oct. 4. • Brendan Samuels/ECHO

Shelby sophomore Santos Melchor stares into the bright Friday Night Lights. • Brendan Samuels/ECHO

Shelby’s Ariana Garza prepares to field a serve from her libero position. • Brendan Samuels/ECHO

BAKER WOODS INVITE

Hesperia Boys - 4th Pentwater Boys - 5th

PUMPKIN PATCH INVITE

Hesperia Boys - 4th

Pentwater 0, Muskegon Cath. 2

McBain

whistle, finding a way to even things up, six minutes later. A high shot from the Pumas’ striker went just far enough to roll off the fingertips of Bizon and into the net.

With time winding down, Hart found enough magic to gain a late lead. It was only fitting that the attack be led by Cruz.

After receiving a pass from Chase Lorenz, Cruz got to the middle of the field and struck a pass in to Adrian Belmares. Belmares once again converted, putting Hart on top 3-2 and

leaving Cruz at 33 assists for his career to this point.

Bizon made six saves in the net for Hart, collecting one cross and 11 through balls as well.

The Pirates finished the regular season with an overall record of 11-8 after defeating Grant in their regular season finale. Hart finished seventh in the West Michigan Conference with a 4-6 mark.

Hart will now turn their attention to the postseason as the District Tournament starts this week.

Hart football unable to stop lethal Mason County Central rushing attack

By: Brendan Samuels

The Oceana Echo Sports Editor

A meeting with one of the most bruising run games in the West Michigan Conference Rivers, saw Hart fall to Mason County Central 35-12 on the road, Friday, Oct. 4. Much like the Pirates in 2023, MCC is in the midst of a resurgence for their program. Led by an offensive line and talented running back Peyton Merz, the Spartans flexed their ability to take control of a game by dominating possession.

After Hart stopped the Spartans on their first few offensive drives, MCC was able to break through. Merz punched in a short yardage touchdown to put the Pirates in a 6-0 hole with just seconds remaining in the first quarter.

The second quarter

saw Merz score another touchdown as MCC capitalized on mistakes by the Pirate offense. Hart senior quarterback Halen Boos threw an interception, setting the Spartans up for a short drive to take a two score lead.

Hart found a way to answer with seven minutes remaining in the second quarter. Freshman quarterback Kolton Rockwell took a run down to the goal line where sophomore Keaghan Monroe finished off the drive with a oneyard touchdown run to make it 14-6.

Merz scored his third touchdown of the game, once again pushing through in a short yardage situation. MCC went into the locker room with a 22-6 lead at halftime.

The Spartans wasted no time getting it going in the third quarter, striking through the air for a 29-6 advantage.

Hart answered with three minutes remaining in that same frame on a 13-yard run by Boos to make it 29-12.

MCC finished off their night with another rushing touchdown, ending the game with a 35-12 win. Merz surpassed 1,000 rushing yards on the year in the win, taking 29 carries for 165 yards and three touchdowns.

Boos led Hart with 37 rushing yards on six carries and a touchdown, also going 3-for8 through the air for 46 yards. Senior Alex Hicks led the defense with eight tackles, while Kyle Greiner and Monroe each had six.

Hart’s record slipped to 2-3 overall with a 1-3 record in the WMC Rivers. The Pirates will host Orchard View for homecoming.

That game will take place Friday, Oct. 11 at 7 p.m.

Hesperia lacks consistency in loss to Ravenna

By: Brendan Samuels

The Oceana Echo Sports Editor

For four straight weeks, Hesperia football has been trying to recapture the spark that got them out to a 2-0 start. For four straight weeks, the Panthers have found themselves on the losing end, with the latest coming at the hands of Ravenna, Friday, Oct. 4. In a 42-10 loss to the Bulldogs on the road, Hesperia was unable to find consistency enough to take down one of the best teams in the West Michigan Conference (WMC) Rivers. Ravenna was able to do what they wanted offensively, which has

been a theme for the Bulldogs this season. The absence of Hesperia’s starting safety Eli Edens only helped in that respect, as he recovered from a shoulder injury sustained in the Panthers’ loss to Shelby a week prior.

Hesperia’s run game is what usually opens up space for senior quarterback Blake Sayer to make big plays. Against Ravenna, there wasn’t much room to run for the Panthers. Senior running back Skyler Stalbaum took 14 carries for 35 yards while Sayer had five carries for 33 yards.

Sayer went 11-for-21 through the air with a touchdown to boot, but struggled keeping the ball out of the Bulldogs’

Shelby volleyball downs North Muskegon 3-0, maintains hold on conference standings

By: Brendan Samuels The Oceana Echo Sports Editor

In what’s become a fierce rivalry in the past few years, Shelby volleyball survived a road test at North Muskegon Tuesday, Oct. 8, taking a 3-0 win and assuring an advantage in the upcoming conference tournament.

Both Shelby and North Muskegon entered Tuesday’s matchup with an unbeaten record in the West Michigan Conference (WMC) Rivers Division. With just two weeks remaining until the conference tournament, the Tigers earned themselves the No. 1 seed with the victory over the Norse.

North Muskegon made it tough on Shelby in the early going. During the first set, the Norsemen led by as many as eight points, forcing the Tigers to fight from behind, ulti-

mately claiming a 25-20 win.

“Best all around performance by (us) this season,” Shelby Head Coach Tom Weirich said. “We have had some struggles on serve receive and first contact on and off all season. Tonight was as clean as we have been all season long. We had to battle back from being down 7-8 points in game one, but once we got rolling we complimented each other efficiently the rest of the night.”

Shelby rolled to a victory in the second set, defeating North Muskegon 25-17 before earning another close 25-20 win in the final action of the night.

Navea Gauthier led the team in kills with 33, adding six aces as well.

Freshman Jayna Burmeister had a team high 17 digs, while Brylee Friedman recorded 12 of her own to go along with a block, seven kills and four aces. Audrey Horton put up 41 assists

and Isabella Rudat had one block.

“Navea had another amazing night offensively, but the defense is what stood out the most to me,” Weirich said. “Defense and serve receive were on point tonight and we needed all of it against a solid Norsemen team. This was a great team win and puts us in the driver seat going forward into the conference tournament.”

The Tigers now sit at a perfect 6-0 in the WMC Rivers and will play a few quality matches against non-conference opponents before the regular season concludes with the WMC Rivers Tournament.

This year’s WMC Rivers Tournament will be hosted by Mason County Central and will take place Saturday, Oct. 26 at 9 a.m.

“Lots of volleyball left to play yet, but I like what I saw out of the team tonight,” Weirich said.

Hesperia boys cross country claims fourth at home meet, Pentwater takes

By: Brendan Samuels The Oceana Echo Sports Editor

hands. Ravenna snagged two interceptions on the night.

Panther senior Ian Fox had a big night at receiver, hauling in nine catches for 127 yards and a touchdown. Thor Klaus followed behind with two catches for 15 yards.

Stalbaum led Hesperia with nine tackles while Klaus had eight. Ryan Fuentes, Dom Rivera and Sayer all had four tackles and Zach Loughridge came down with an interception.

The Panthers fell to 2-4 overall with the loss and are now 1-3 in the WMC Rivers. Hesperia will be on the road again this week as they take on Mason County Central in Scottville, Friday, Oct. 11 at 7 p.m.

HESPERIA – The late season installment of the Baker Woods Invite didn’t go quite as well for Hesperia as the Panthers’ boys cross country team took fourth out of six teams on their home course.

The Panthers trailed behind a host of competitors from Lowell, Mason County Eastern and Lake Leelanau St. Mary, causing them to lose ground in the points department. 10 of the 11 top runners to cross the finish line came from those three schools, with one from Lakeview joining the mix.

It wasn’t until 12th place that Hesperia found their first finisher, with sophomore Nate Ruhstorfer clocking in at 20:00.41. Senior Andrew Sherburn found his way in behind Rushtorfer, taking 17th with a time of 20:32.88.

The Panthers had two additional top 30 fin-

ishers as junior Zack Temple (20:56:91) took 22nd and freshman Andy Lopez-Garcia (22:08.59) came in 29th. Rounding out Hesperia’s roster on the boys side were Keegan Roberson (24:21.72), Ethan Newman (24:22.64), Kolt Milner (24:59.75), Dain Kraus (25:56.99), Jacob Priese (26:55.87), Matice Nichols (26:58.19), Kaldon Dixon (28:43.56) and George Goodrich (32:59.19).

Pentwater’s boys finished behind the Panthers as a team, claiming the fifth spot. The Falcons were led by freshman Tyler Zimmer who came in 24th place with a time of 21:08.48. Pentwater’s remaining finishers in the boys’ race were Wyatt Roberts (23:12.52) in 33rd, Ben Roberson (24:09.88) in 36th, Bode Powell (26:34.40) in 46th and Michael Smith (27:32.75) in 51st. Both Hesperia and Pentwater feature a smaller girls team, with the Panthers having just two female runners and the Falcons with three.

fifth

Pentwater sophomore Bailey Case was the top finisher among all of them, pulling in with a time of 24:10.39 for an eighth place finish. Teammates Lauren Davis (29:26.41) and Abbie Field (34:18.15) came in 35th and 52nd respectively.

For Hesperia’s girls, it was sophomore Rokhaya Ruhstorfer (27:08.71) that led the way in 22nd place while junior Elyssa Wright (31:09.27) finished in 45th.

Pentwater sophomore Bailey Case pushes uphill during a race at Hesperia’s Baker Woods. Case finished eighth in the girls’ race. • Brendan Samuels/ECHO

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Ware appointed next Chamber director

Stephanie Ware will

take over position after Amy VanLoon’s retirement; Ware has worked at Chamber past 3 years

Stephanie Ware will take over position after Amy VanLoon’s retirement; Ware has worked at Chamber past 3 years

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

The White Lake Area Chamber and Visitor’s Bureau didn’t have to look far to find a successor to executive director Amy VanLoon, who announced this summer that she’ll be retiring at the end of the year after 20 years of service. The Chamber’s board of directors unanimously appointed Stephanie Ware, the current director of events, as the new executive director at its Sept. 25 board meeting. Ware will assume the executive director responsibilities upon VanLoon’s retirement.

Ware long seemed a natural fit for the role, having been with the Chamber full-time for three years in various roles and learning from VanLoon in the process.

“I’ve lived in this community for 14 years and worked in this community for eight or nine years, both at other

jobs and here for three,” Ware said.

“When you live here and have the privilege of working here, from a Chamber standpoint, you get a good heartbeat for what the community is like. It’s really easy to be passionate and excited about it.”

jobs and here for three,” Ware said. “When you live here and have the privilege of working here, from a Chamber standpoint, you get a good heartbeat for what the community is like. It’s really easy to be passionate and excited about it.”

The board went through a hiring process starting in July when VanLoon made her intention to retire known, accepting applications and interviewing a short list of finalists. VanLoon said Ware stood out among the candidates, in large part because of her enthusiasm for the area.

“She’s White Lake’s biggest cheerleader, champion and biggest fan,” VanLoon said of Ware. “That excitement and passion she has for not only the business community, but the tourism industry and how important it is to our businesses and our community, is contagious. It’s very admirable. She is tireless and she leads with such pas-

sion.”

Ware said she has benefited from VanLoon’s going out of her way to involve her in the functioning of the Chamber during Ware’s time there, which should make for a smooth

transition. VanLoon added that Ware jokes she has VanLoon “on speed dial” should she have questions once she

continued on page 2

White River Twp. enacts new ORV ordinance

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

MONTAGUE — The White River Township board unanimously approved a new ordinance governing the use of off-road vehicles (ORVs) at Tuesday’s monthly meeting.

Township supervisor Ron Bailey said the township itself will not be responsible for policing the ordinance, but that passing one gives the state Department of Natural Resources a document from which it can police it if necessary.

The ordinance, which the board said largely mimics the one in neighboring Montague Township, prohibits anyone younger than 18 from operating an ORV on public roads without a

driver’s license or the supervision of an adult who has one. It also prohibits the use of an ORV at over 25 miles per hour, as well as prohibiting it over 30 minutes prior to sunrise or after sunset unless the operator has headlights and taillights on.

One provision that drew questions was the one prohibiting use of an ORV without a helmet or protective eyewear, unless the vehicle has a roof “that meets or exceeds the standard for a crash helmet.” Trustee Laura Anderson asked why the ordinance included this requirement, since there is no state law requiring the use of a helmet while driving a motorcycle. Bailey noted that the ordinance governs public land and DNR regulations require the use of a

helmet, hence the requirement.

The board unanimously approved a $5,000 expenditure for its share of the repair of two culverts that are failing in the township. Bailey said he’d received communication from the Muskegon County Road Commission regarding the culverts. One failing culvert is 1,500 feet north of Flower Creek Road and the other is 539 feet north. Each culvert, the commission said, will cost an estimated $10,000 to fix, of which the township is responsible for $2,500. Treasurer Deb Harris said fortunately, the township has about $11,000 left over from funds that were earmarked for the Hancock Road repairs that were completed earlier this year which can be redirected to the culverts. Bailey added the commis-

sion has told him each repair should be completed in a day.

The board also unanimously approved a $1,200 expenditure to plant four trees as part of the continuing beautification of Hubbard Cemetery. It was noted that autumn is the best season to plant a tree because it allows tree roots time to grab hold of soil before the unforgiving Michigan winters.

Anderson reported that the White Lake Ambulance Authority is awaiting approval from the Whitehall Township planning commission for a parking structure. She also noted that the ambulance that was damaged in a crash earlier this year is slated to have its repairs completed around the end of this month.

Duck Creek Watershed Assembly hosts cleanup

By Madison Lajewski

By Madison Lajewski White Lake Mirror Writer

White Lake Mirror Writer

The Duck Creek Watershed Assembly held their semi-annual “blast the plastic” cleanup on the shoreline in Duck Lake State Park Saturday. The organization hosts this event every spring and fall, before and after the busy summer season on the West side of the state. They began promoting this cleanup in an attempt to bring awareness to the damaging effects of plastic on the beach in Muskegon County, in partnership with the Alliance for the Great Lakes. As of 2016, approximately 22 million pounds of plastic enters the Great Lakes annually, according to the Rochester Institute of Technology.

The trash, primarily being plastics, includes plastic shopping bags, cups, straws and other unidentifiable items. Many of these can have other problems, including becoming a danger to other wildlife. An example would be animals getting tangled and potentially choking in the plastic rings that hold together a six-pack of pop or beer.

After seeing the effects of trash littering the shoreline and Great Lakes, the Duck Creek Watershed Assembly is dedicated to helping minimize or prevent these effects as much as possible. This fall, they collected over 33 pounds and 1,250 pieces of trash. The next cleanup will be sometime next spring. Information will be posted on the watershed assembly’s Facebook page.

From left, Whitehall mayor Steven Salter, Montague mayor Tom Lohman, White Lake Chamber & Visitor’s Bureau director of events Stephanie Ware and Chamber executive director Amy VanLoon welcome residents to the White Lake Community Walk Sept. 2. Ware was unanimously appointed as VanLoon’s successor Sept. 25 and will take over upon VanLoon’s retirement later this year. • Andy Roberts/Mirror

Stephanie Ware continued on page 2

Members of the Duck Creek Watershed Assembly joined together Saturday at Duck Lake State Park for their semi-annual “blast the plastic” garbage pickup event. The group cleaned over 30 pounds of garbage this fall. • Courtesy Photo

Stephanie Ware

By Madison Lajewski

White Lake Mirror Writer

MONTAGUE — The City of Montague welcomed a new winery last Thursday. Stoney Ridge Winery, located next to North Grove Brewers, opened their doors with a ribbon-cutting ceremony. Mary and Dale Flannery opened this new tasting room, in addition to their sister location in Kent County, which opened in 2020. Stoney Ridge wines are Michigan-made, grown and produced at their vineyard in Kent County.

The winery features a full wine menu, in addition to cider and food. The food menu includes everything from a charcuterie board to escargot, and fried chicken sandwiches to woodfire pizza. Stoney Ridge offers multiple award-winning wines that people can try during a tasting. Their La Crescent

2022, a semi-dry white, won a gold medal at the 2023 Finger Lakes Invitational, as well as their Frick & Frack dry red and Frick & Frack dry rose both receiving silver medals, and their Pinot Grigio/Chardonnay and Marquette 2020 dry red receiving bronze medals.

Stoney Ridge’s Itasca 2022 semi-dry white, Petite Pearl 2020 dry red and Marquette Rose 2021 all won bronze medals at the 2023 Michigan Governor’s Cup.

Bottles of their wine and cans of their cider are available for purchase at the tasting room for customers to enjoy at home or gift to families and friends. “Snowbirds” can also purchase bottles of Stoney Ridge wine online.

Stoney Ridge’s hours are Thursday through Saturday from 12-8 p.m., and Sunday from 12-5 p.m. The business is located at 8725 Water Street.

Cabala disputes city’s recent clearing of wetland adjacent to Tannery Bay

By Madison Lajewski

White Lake Mirror Writer

WHITEHALL — Whitehall city councilwoman Tanya Cabala expressed her frustration towards the City of Whitehall’s hand in the clearing of the wetland around or near Tannery Bay during Tuesday’s work session. She had initiated this discussion at recent meetings, bringing up the point that it is illegal to fill a conservation or wetland unless permitted by the state.

Cabala shared that she had a long conversation with Audrie Kirk, senior environmental analyst for the state of Michigan’s Department of Environmental Quality about this topic and the permit issued.

A four-year permit has been issued for the filling of this wetland. City manager Scott Huebler said the permit will include a walkway and observation deck for people to view the lake. No parking lot or buildings will be included or approved in this area. Cabala’s

frustration lies not only in the filling of the wetland, but she feels had she not said anything, the topic would have been ignored.

“In Michigan, we’ve lost over half of our wetlands,” Cabala said. “We should not be filling them unless it’s unavoidable. There is not enough reason to fill this wetland in my opinion, while keeping it could benefit possibly thousands of creatures. Wetlands are natural flood control. We’ve removed so many of our wetlands. That’s why we

have so much flooding.”

Cabala has continuously shared her passion for bettering and maintaining the environment, taking part in various committees and groups dedicated to the environment in White Lake. She said she still has intentions of sending a letter regarding her disapproval of filling the wetland, with councilman Scott Brown also agreeing to sign in support.

has taken over the job, which will also help.

“We have such a good relationship,” Ware said of VanLoon. “When she retires, she won’t disappear, and I can call her if I need her. We’ve had a great staff here over the years, and a great board of directors, and great businesses. I know there’s grace in the learning process when you have great people around you.”

Ware said she is excited for the challenges ahead of her as she takes on a new role. One thing the Chamber has worked on recently that she is looking forward to continuing is balancing the organization’s dual purpose as both a hub for the area’s business community and a service to area visitors. At first glance the two might not seem similar, but Ware believes they are linked.

“When we have a strong business community, people come here and it feels more like a cohesive community,”

Ware said. “Our businesses play such a big

part in how our visitors feel when they’re here, so it’s about finding more ways to bring those worlds together. We know, because we live in it, that they go hand in hand.

“One thing we’re trying to do more of this year is making sure we’re pretty even down the line between (those two things). One thing we’ve started to do this

year that I look forward to implementing more in 2025 is those networking opportunities. PreCOVID, in 2019, we had visits and workshops after hours, and those are things we’ve started to bring back.”

Ware said she is thankful VanLoon helped create a strong foundation for the Chamber and is excited to be part of the next

continued from page 1

evolution of what it can be.

“I’m taking over something that’s already a very special organization in our community, and it’s one I believe strongly in,” Ware said. “I’m so passionate about everything we do. There’s a lot of different things we do, and I’m so thankful to be a part of it and continue it.”

Owners Mary and Dale Flannery (center) pose for a photo during the opening of Stoney Ridge Winery with White Lake Chamber of Commerce’s Amy VanLoon (far right) and Stephanie Ware last Thursday. • Madison Lajewski/Mirror

Saturday, Oct. 12

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

PumpkinFest, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Pumpkin roll at 11 a.m. down the Dowling St. hill - $1 to participate with your own pumpkin, $3 to purchase a pumpkin. Various pumpkin-themed activities throughout the day.

Silent Book Club @ Busy Bee Cafe, 2 p.m. All readers are welcome, no assigned reading.

Kyle Brown performs @ Fetch

Community Calendar

Brewing, 7 p.m.

Mr. Jones performs @ Sawyers Brewing, 7 p.m.

Distracted performs @ Pub One Eleven, 8 p.m.

Tuesday, Oct. 15

The Great Gatsby discussion group @ Fetch Brewing, 5:30 p.m. Hosted by White Lake Community Library.

Wednesday, Oct. 16

Youth Open Studio @ ACWL-Nuveen Center, 3-5 p.m. Open to middle

and high school students. Students are welcome to bring in school art projects or anything they are working on and get help from ACWL-Nuveen staff.

Thursday, Oct. 17

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

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

Original Dulcimer Players Club meets @ VAC conference room, 1

p.m. All are welcome to listen and other acoustic instruments are welcome to participate.

Friday, Oct. 18

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

Vincent Hayes performs @ Sawyers Brewing, 7 p.m.

Jimmy Savage Band performs @ Pub One Eleven, 8 p.m.

Echoes of History: Citizens - Christian L. Streng

By Barbara Bedau Brow Volunteer Contributor

On Feb. 1, 1868, Christian Louis Streng began his first work in Montague as a bookkeeper for the Ferry Dowling Lumber Company.

C.L. Streng was born in the Province of Utrecht, Holland, July 11, 1834. He came to America with his family in 1847 on a sailing boat that required six weeks in the Atlantic Ocean and another week by water from the coast to Milwaukee. His family then came to Michigan and first settled on a farm in Saugatuck, where his father died in 1848. Then they moved to Holland, where his mother died in 1856.

The first job C. L. had was when he was about 14 years old, and he carried mail to a sawmill twice a week. The mill was three miles’ distance from the town and the round trip was six miles, for which he was paid six cents a day.

He then worked as a clerk for Henry D. Post, the postmaster in Holland, who was also the proprietor of the general store. When the panic of 1857 occurred, the town was demoralized, and the wages were ruined.

At the time, Streng was getting $300 a year salary from Post, who struck a deal with him. Post gave Streng a watch for a month’s work. It was a very good watch. And with the $40 he had saved, Streng lived nicely through the winter.

In the spring, Streng went to work for his brother-in-law, Charles Pfaff, in his store. There he got board for clerking for him. Later he received board and an $8 a month salary. When Pfaff

became sheriff, he wanted Streng to buy him out. All he had to do was pay off the $2,000 the store owed. He succeeded in the buyout, and from 186067 he conducted the business with some success.

By June 1861, C. L. had married Helena Sakkers in Holland, Michigan. They had four children: John C. (18621931); Johanna (1864-1876); Maria (1866-1913); and Henry Peter (18681933). His wife Helena died in 1876.

He enlisted in the Civil War in July 1863.

In 1864, while shipping a boatload of goods from Chicago for the store, the boat was lost and its cargo went to the bottom, seriously crippling business. In 1867, the burning of the store completed his financial ruin, and he was left to start over again. Streng decided that Holland was not very profitable, so he moved to Grand Haven.

In Grand Haven, Streng engaged as head clerk for the firm of Squires & Osgood, a general store. This gave promise of being a good job, but the failure of this firm at the end of six months left him seeking other employment.

In 1868, Streng then took a horse and sleigh to Montague, where he soon secured the position of bookkeeper for Ferry, Dowling & Co., at $300 a year. From 1868-83 he continued in that position, and when the E. P. Ferry Lumber Company was reorganized, he was elected secretary. He remained with them one year, after which he resigned, because it required Sunday work.

Streng married for the second time to Mary A. Harting Dec. 24, 1877 in

Grand Rapids. They had three children: Charles (1878-1901); Henrietta (1881-1955); and Frederick (18551954). His wife Mary died in Montague Dec. 22, 1918. She is buried in Oak Grove Cemetery along with their sons.

In the spring of 1884, he then took the census of Montague before leaving for Grand Rapids where he was employed in the private office of I. M. Weston and for a time was bookkeeper in the Fourth National Bank of Grand Rapids.

In the spring of 1885, he returned to Montague and chose to engage in the dry-goods business, and from small beginnings built up a large and rapidly increasing trade and was in business until 1907. He also had a store in Holland, Michigan, which was managed by his son, Henry P. Streng.

In November 1901 it was reported that Mrs. Streng had purchased from Mrs. Anna Dowling the handsome brick block which Streng’s Emporium had occupied for many years. Besides two spacious storefronts, there were pleasant rooms overhead. which were being used by the Odd Fellows Lodge. The building being described was located next to the bank on the corner of Ferry Street and Dowling and is now part of Figgs Boutique.

In June 1907, C. L. sold his Montague business to the Potter brothers of Chicago. William F. and Joseph S. Potter owned 17 dry goods stores in various towns in Illinois and Wisconsin. Joseph S. Potter, junior partner in the business, oversaw the new store in Montague.

With the passing of his second wife, C. L. moved to Kalamazoo in 1918 and lived with his son Henry, where he died March 13, 1931 at the age of 96 years. His body was brought back to Montague for burial in Oak Grove Cemetery the following Monday, March 16.

A telegram was sent to his son John who was living in Portland, Oregon, informing him of his father’s passing. A telegrammed reply was received the next day indicating John’s inability to attend. Then, a few hours later, another telegram was received that told of John’s death in an automobile accident that day. The body of the son was cremated, and the ashes were buried next to his father in Block 84, Lot 2 East, Plot 1, in Oak Grove Cemetery. There is no marker for either C. L. or his son John.

Still time to register for Gatsby event at Fetch

By Virginia DeMumbrum Volunteer Contributor

There’s still time to register for the Fitzgerald at Fetch event scheduled for 5:30 p.m. Tuesday! The library is hosting a discussion of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s famous novel The Great Gatsby at Fetch Brewing in Whitehall. There will be some just-for-fun Gatsby trivia, too. No time to read the book before Tuesday? Borrow the movie on Hoopla (it’s the Robert Redford / Mia Farrow version). Hoopla has a 22-page summary version you can check out,

too! This event is part of the Big Read Lakeshore project. Discover more events at madl.org/BR. Registration for the Fitzgerald at Fetch event is appreciated at wlclib.org/calendar. Explore Your Community with Depot to Depot

The library is once again a stop on the popular “Depot to Depot” fall tour event, which runs through the month of October and is organized by Visit Muskegon and the White Lake Area Chamber of Commerce. This is the 20th year for the free, self-guided tour of Muskegon County landmarks, shops, and natural beauty. It’s a wonderful opportunity to explore the community, support local businesses, and spend quality time with your family! The library will be participating by offering a goody bag to everyone who stops by as part of their tour. We are also giving

away a free book to each child on the tour, while supplies last. For more information and a printable map, visit the events tab at whitelake.org.

FUN FACT: Twelve of the 35 businesses and organizations participating in this year’s Depot to Depot tour are right here in the White Lake Area! Everything from free menu items to special discounts to door prize raffles are being offered by generous establishments all over town. Check it out!

Does My Vote Really Matter?

You’re invited to the library Monday, Oct. 28, from 5:30-7 p.m. for an engaging community conversation titled “Does My Vote Really Matter?” Participants in this conversation will explore the impact of individual votes in local, state, and national elections. Whether you’re a seasoned voter or new to the process, this discussion aims to gen-

erate valuable insights and foster a deeper appreciation of the democratic process. Don’t miss this opportunity to connect with fellow community members and share your thoughts on the importance of voting. Light refreshments will be provided. Register at wlclib.org/calendar to save your seat!

• Courtesy Photo

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WHITEHALL • MONTAGUE • REETHS - PUFFER

Vikings, ‘Cats punch tickets to state!

Whitehall finishes just a stroke away from regional title, earns 8th state bid in 10 years

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

WHITEHALL — Whitehall delivered one of its strongest rounds of the season Tuesday at the Division 3 regional tournament on its home course, White Lake Golf Club, to secure a spot at the state meet.

The Vikings finished just one stroke behind regional champion Forest Hills Eastern, shooting a 372 to earn second place and a bid to next week’s

Club. Shafer’s 89 helped the Vikings qualify for the state meet for the 8th time in 10 seasons.

• Andy Roberts/Mirror

Bultema’s personal best, Fox’s strong finish carry young Wildcats to state meet

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

MONTAGUE — Riding tremendous rounds from Braylyn Bultema and Cadence Fox, the Montague Wildcats qualified for the Division 4 state meet at Tuesday’s regionals at Old Channel Trail Golf Course, finishing in second place.

The Wildcats’ team score was 386, finishing behind only NorthPointe Christian, which had a 367.

The state qualification - Montague will play next weekend at Forest Akers West at Michigan State University - was a tremendous first step for a young group coach Phil Kerr is excited

to watch grow; Bultema is the only senior who played Tuesday.

“This was our Super Bowl,” Kerr

Montague qualifies

continued on page 6

Mulnix’ heroics deliver Whitehall past Oakridge

In first game back from broken hip, senior scores 2 goals in OT

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

WHITEHALL — Script writers would dismiss it as too cliche to be realistic, but it really happened Wednesday night: Whitehall senior Mason Mulnix, who missed most of the regular season with a broken hip, came off the bench and scored two goals in overtime to keep his career going at least one more game.

Mulnix’ heroics gave the Vikings a 5-3 pre-district win over Oakridge, erased any bad vibes that might have come from the team giving up two second-half goals to tie the score, and extended the team’s season at least one more week. Whitehall will face Fremont in the district semifinals.

Coach Adam Prince said Mulnix was only cleared to play Tuesday, and Mulnix added that his doctor said though he was cleared, he was reticent about it.

“He told me I probably shouldn’t play in the game tonight,” Mulnix said.

“But my team needed help. I had a job to do, and I got my job done.”

Mulnix didn’t even enter the game until very late in regulation; it was always the plan to get him in down the stretch, whether it was needed or just a chance for him to take the field one last time in his final home game. As it turned out, the Eagles’ Ian Thompson made sure Mulnix was very much needed, scoring two goals in just over 10 minutes late in the second half to erase a 3-1 Whitehall lead.

When overtime began, Mulnix’ presence seemed to stabilize a Whitehall offense that’s been searching for a way to replace his explosiveness ever since his injury. It took less than 90 seconds into the extra time for him to get loose and score his 10th goal of the season - a total that still leads the team even after missing a month of play.

“When he finally did get in there and got his first touch, it was just back to the old Moose,” Prince said, using Mulnix’ nickname. “He just floats out there. When he’s up top, the whole team plays differently than when he’s not. When he came over and he made the first goal, you could just feel everybody (think),

Whitehall’s Mason Mulnix lines up his second goal of overtime during Wednesday’s predistrict game against Oakridge. Mulnix made a dramatic return from a broken hip to deliver the winning goals in a 5-3 Vikings’ triumph. • Andy Roberts/Mirror

‘We’re back to where we were at the beginning of the season.’”

Mulnix added to his storybook in the second overtime period, scoring again with just over four minutes to go before being subbed out. He played less than 20 minutes, but his impact, both literal and metaphorical, was impossible to overstate.

Prince and his coaches knew Mulnix being cleared was a possibility when he went in for his Tuesday appointment, but nothing was for sure; while there is a healthy amount of muscle protecting the bone, it remains broken. It’s due to

Montague’s Cadence Fox tees off during her regional round Tuesday at Old Channel Trail Golf Course. Fox helped the Wildcats earn second place as a team and qualify for the state meet.

• Andy Roberts/Mirror

Montague’s Braylyn Bultema watches her shot during Tuesday’s regional tournament. Bultema had a career-best 86 to lead the Wildcats to a state-qualifying second-place finish. • Andy Roberts/Mirror

Whitehall’s Riley Shafer tries to will her putt into the hole during Tuesday’s regional tournament at White Lake Golf

Whitehall’s Grace McDowell tees off during Tuesday’s regional tournament at White Lake Golf Club. McDowell led the Vikings to a runner-up finish with her score of 86. • Andy Roberts/Mirror

Injury-ravaged Rockets push#3 Byron Center in loss

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

MUSKEGON — Despite being ravaged by injuries, Reeths-Puffer played three exceptional quarters Friday night against Division 2 third-ranked Byron Center. Unfortunately, in the fourth, the Bulldogs ripped off three straight touchdowns to turn back the Rockets’ upset bid, 42-28.

Maybe the biggest play of the game wasn’t a play at all, but a penalty. With the game tied at 28, Sage Secrest, who played quarterback while Mason Darke dealt with Achillies tendinitis, lofted a nice pass to Ethan Muskovin that would’ve moved R-P close to Byron Center territory. The big gain was called back on a personal foul penalty.

“That was one of the bigger plays of the night,” R-P coach Cody Kater said. “We could have flipped the field there, punted, done all the great things (we were doing), and then we gave them help.”

In addition to Darke’s injury, starting running back Bryce Muskovin was far less than 100 percent with an ankle

injury. On top of that, Marvin Moore went down with a shoulder injury (though not before a key kickoff return touchdown) and was taken to the hospital, Kater said, and three defensive starters missed much of the week of preparation due to illness, though they all played Friday.

That thrust much of the game onto Secrest, a linebacker who had never played quarterback at this level before.

No matter; Secrest made two of the biggest plays of the game, ripping off a 57-yard touchdown run on a keeper to respond to Byron Center’s first score and adding a 60-yard score to tie the game again at 21 in the third quarter.

“Our team freaking believes in him, and we believe in him,” Kater said. “He played his heart out. You don’t see a whole lot of middle linebacker-quarterback combinations at the Division 2 level.”

R-P rode big plays to the lead, including Secrest’s two runs and Moore’s kickoff return, which ensured the Bulldogs would be haunted by a personal foul penalty they committed on the ex-

tra point prior to it.

After Secrest tied the score at 21, R-P (2-4, 1-2 O-K Green Conference) forced and recovered a fumble on the ensuing kickoff. The Rockets were forced into fourth-and-goal, where they reached into a bag of tricks and had Bryce Muskovin throw a halfback pass touchdown to Sam Hillin. It put R-P ahead, but it was the last time the

Rockets scored. “You’ve got to continue to show up and put the work in day in and day out and win the snap, and that’s out of every practice and that’s on film and that’s in the weight room,” Kater said. “That’s been our mantra this week

Montague struggles in red zone in loss to N. Muskegon

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

Montague had chances to turn Friday night’s game against North Muskegon into a close battle, but red-zone struggles kept the ‘Cats from doing it. The Norsemen were able to pull away in the second half and tally a 36-8 win at Montague.

Montague (2-4) was 0-for-4 scoring points on red-zone drives, a stat that spells doom for virtually any team.

“We feel like we’re pretty evenly matched with them, but the scoreboard doesn’t say that,” Montague coach Justin Dennett said.

“We played them tough in the first half and two drives stalled on the goal line. It could’ve been a 14-14 game. In the second half, we had a little bit harder time moving the ball, but we were able to string a

couple drives together. It kind of snowballed after we couldn’t score in the red zone (those two times).”

The ‘Cats at least capitalized on one of their missed first-half chances on the back end, scoring a safety late in the first quarter after being stopped at the one-yard line on offense. However, that was the last time they scored until the fourth quarter as the Norsemen piled up points. It was a 14-2 game at halftime before three straight touchdowns turned it into a rout.

“We had a pretty good game plan going in,” Dennett said. “I do think we have a path to being a successful offense. We just have to clean up some things, fix some missed assignments and take care of the ball a little bit better.”

Eli Petersen hit Fletcher Thommen for a fourth-quarter touchdown pass to salvage a bright spot from the evening, ending his night with 172 passing yards plus 32 on the ground. Devlin Dean ran for 127 yards, Ryver Jarka had 71 receiving yards on seven catches, and Talan Degen led the defense with seven solo tackles.

The Wildcats will turn their attention to a homecoming game against Fremont. After the issues Montague had finishing drives Friday, Dennett said it will be a point of emphasis in practice this week.

Vikes rout Oakridge after slow start

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

Whitehall sputtered early in Friday’s West Michigan Conference Lakes game at Oakridge, but as they have so often this season, the Vikings rounded into form after that, downing the Eagles 38-7 to remain unbeaten in league play.

The Vikings (4-2, 4-0 WMC Lakes) battled themselves at times with penalties, committing 13 of them for over 100 yards. Coach Tony Sigmon said close to half of them came on the first offensive possession of the game, which kept Whitehall off the scoreboard. In fact, the first quarter ended without a point on either side.

However, some big plays by the Vikings sparked things in the second quarter, and by halftime Whitehall led 25-0.

“Gavin Craner had a really big night,” Sigmon said. “He had a big play right before halftime when we started on our own 10 and he busted one for 50 or 60 yards that set up a touchdown before halftime.”

“I think if we can start to do that a little better, we can have a successful week next week,” Dennett said.

Sports in Brief

Soccer

Reeths-Puffer 8 Muskegon 0

Montague 6 Grant 1

Volleyball

R-P, Whitehall each go 0-4 at Mona Shores Invite The Rockets competed well, losing 3 of their 4 matches by close margins. Carlee Bowen had 32 digs and Alissa Klopp had 22 kills. Whitehall struggled offensively, with Bella Fogus’ 17 kills leading the team, and Aaliyah Jamison had 29 digs.

Craner delivered another flourish late with a 92-yard touchdown run in the fourth quarter. In all, he had 227 yards on only 10 carries, and Camden Thompson added 143, also on only 10 carries. Thompson also threw for 93 yards and accounted for four touchdowns.

It was another defensive masterpiece for the Vikings, with Ryan Goodrich racking up 4.5 tackles for loss and Corde Anderson earning a sack and an interception. Oakridge had only 91 yards of offense, none of them in the air, and converted just 2-of-17 third downs.

Sigmon, who has long professed his respect for the Oakridge program, noted the Eagles were having a rough time with injuries, recalling the 2019 Whitehall sea-

son that was similarly waylaid by physical maladies, but was impressed with his team’s defensive effort nonetheless.

“I think you’re seeing us play physical football and kids are finding their niche on defense and finding their role,” Sigmon said. “We’re playing strong and fundamental defense, and we’re playing unselfish defense. Corde has shown how dominant he can be in the pass rush.”

Whitehall is closing in on a fourth straight conference championship, but the Vikings will look to retain their focus for next week’s game against Ludington.

“We’ve talked to our kids about climbing the mountain,” Sigmon said. “If you’re climbing Mount Everest, or K2, the air gets thinner and thinner at the top. We’re getting into the middle of October, and the next 10 days kind of defines our season within the area. Ludington has had a phenomenal year this year, and we know we’ll get their best game.”

Jenison 3 Reeths-Puffer 0

The Rockets struggled to keep up with No. 4-ranked Jenison. Coach Justin Birr said Alissa Klopp, who had 6 kills, performed well against the Wildcats’ imposing front line Madilynn Dyer had 12 assists.

Montague 3 Manistee 0

Montague celebrated senior night with an impressive win. The Wildcats played all seniors in game one. Jordan Netcott had 26 digs and 7 aces, and Maizie Collins had 14 kills. Jaelyn Sundberg had 30 assists. Fremont 3 Whitehall 1

The Vikings played a strong match against the WMC Lakes-leading Packers, but were unable to pull the upset. Statistics from the match had not been reported at press time.

Golf

Big Rapids 6 Whitehall 2

Whitehall’s No. 3 flights each won matches. Evan Schuitema won his singles match, and Evan Thomas/Elijah Roberge also earned a win.

and topped Montague runners by coming in 19th place in the Division 3 boys’ race. Adalyn Britton and Grace Torsch were the leading runners for the Viking and Wildcat girls, respectively.

Montague 2nd at Chippewa Hills Invite Montague had an impressive day, going 3-1-2 and losing only in the finals to Beal City in 3 close games. Annelyse Schneider came up from the JV and had 12 blocks. Gentry Knop had 71 digs, Jaelyn Sundberg posted 93 assists and Maizie Collins had 36 kills.

Craner

Degen

Reeths-Puffer quarterback Sage Secrest stretches for more yardage as Kellen Payne makes a tackle for Byron Center during Friday’s game at R-P. The Rockets lost, 42-28.

• Andy Roberts/Mirror

Rockets beat Shores, retain Causeway Cup

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

MUSKEGON —

Reeths-Puffer didn’t get the same kind of mercy-rule win over Mona Shores that it stunningly obtained earlier this season in Monday’s rematch, but the Rockets did more than enough to hoist the Causeway Cup trophy as 6-1 winners, closing the regular season well.

The Rockets (9-8-1, 6-4 O-K Green Conference) looked like a team prepared Monday, especially early on, scoring twice in the first 12 minutes and peppering the Sailor net with shots. The game wasn’t even 30 seconds old when Trent Hanks got on the board for the Rockets, and later on, it was Nick Clemens responding to his coach’s exhortations to attack the net and slicing

through the defense for another goal.

Harrell said he thinks while possession is obviously a virtue in soccer, sometimes teams focus on it at the expense of using their athleticism to create scoring chances, which was why he was on Clemens to get to the goal.

“So many times, people think you need to put six, seven or eight passes together, but sometimes it becomes possession without a purpose,” Harrell said. “We’re still trying to teach our boys, we can play a little long ball. We can play over the top. We can play split defenders. Or we can knock four or five passes around and make those defenders move side to side. We’re just trying to teach them to be well-rounded players, not just because that makes you feel good as a coach when you’re really

teaching the game and you’ve got guys who can be complete players, but more importantly than that, we become a really hard team to scout because we can score at different angles.”

R-P kept control of the game throughout, with Zac Sampson adding a pair of goals later in the game to lead the barrage. R-P appeared poised for another mercy-rule win after scoring its sixth goal with 25 minutes still to play, but Shores showed some gumption late to stop the scoring from there. The Sailors even got their own score with nine minutes to go. The game also became, as you’d expect in a rivalry, physical and chippy as things went along.

R-P ended the regular season in third place among a top group of four quality teams in the O-K Green. The Rockets have also won three of five

Montague qualifies

said. “It’s been our only focus the entire year, to get this program back to the state finals where it belongs. Whatever comes next is gravy and will be a satisfying reward for all their hard work. We wanted to give this young team the opportunity to experience a state finals and build off of it in the years ahead.”

Bultema carded a career-best 86 and joined current Wayne State player Orianna Bylsma as the only players in program history to lead a state-qualifying Montague team in scoring at a regional (Bylsma did it three times, from 201921). Cadence Fox shot an 89, her third consecutive round going under 90 after having never previously done it. Each of the two scored a birdie during their rounds.

“She is just an incredible kid and deserves all of the flowers she will receive for this performance,” Kerr said of Bultema’s round. “And Bray couldn’t have done it alone. Cadence was unbelievable. She got off to a slow start and bounced back with a 41 on her back nine.”

Brynlee Kessler and Addi Smith both contributed to the Wildcat score as well, shooting a 103 and a 106 respectively. Marguerite O’Connell shot a 122.

“I love this team and I couldn’t be more proud of them,” Kerr said.

R-P’s McCollum beats Bluhm in playoff to reach state Reeths-Puffer dealt with a nightmare scenario at Tuesday’s Division 2 regional tournament, played at Cedar Chase Golf Course. Rockets Sophia McCollum and Rowan Bluhm tied for the final individual state qualifying

Tough R-P loss

amid a lot of adversity. I love the way that these guys hung on and connected and played the game of football tonight.”

Even with all the Rockets dealt with, they probably still would have won the game but for the superhuman efforts of Bulldog quarterback Landon Tungate, who time after time extended plays and made things happen. He ran for a 44-yard go-ahead touchdown in the second quarter - forcing several missed tackles along the way. He also barely got the ball in the end zone on a fourthand-goal keeper in the third, made two clutch third-down touchdown throws in the fourth, and provided the final

spot, each shooting an 85, which forced them to play against one another in a playoff for that single spot.

McCollum won the playoff to earn her ticket to The Meadows at Grand Valley State University, but no one, the victor included, left the regionals happy with how things ended.

“For Rowan and Sophia to have to play against each other for the final individual qualifying spot was absolutely brutal,” Rockets’ coach Matt Pallett said. “It was the toughest coaching moment in my 29 years of coaching sports. I am very proud of both of them.”

As a team, R-P finished fifth with a score of 379, 12 strokes away from team state qualification. Pallett said the regional was “arguably the toughest” in Division 2.

McCollum and Bluhm both performed well, tying for sixth place overall. Bluhm came up with a clutch birdie on her final hole of regulation to force the playoff with McCollum, who herself finished strong, going just three over par over her final 10 holes prior to the playoff.

Also scoring for the Rockets were Olivia Ambler, who shot a 103 despite dealing with breaking in a new set of clubs after several of hers broke, and Ella Voorhies, who had a 106 and made a birdie during her round. Emma Dvorak also competed and shot a 135.

“The team played well, but it just wasn’t enough to qualify for the state finals as a team,” Pallett said. “As a team we continued to improve through the year. We will continue to have a goal to make the state finals as a team one of these years.”

continued from page 4

flourish with a 36-yard score with 1:45 to go.

There was much to be proud of, and the Rocket coaches were. At the same time, Kater knows there are no points for trying, and as he pointed out to the team, R-P must win two of its final three games to make the playoffs. That’s a tall task when the next two games are against Muskegon and Mona Shores.

“We weren’t proud of ourselves last week,” Kater said. “We weren’t proud of ourselves in week one, or week two, just because of effort and energy and focus. I felt like we showed that a little bit more today. We’ve just got to find a

since a midseason 2-6 slump, which has impressed their coach.

“I can’t stress enough, I think they’ve done a really good job at really keeping their eyes and sights set on the big picture,” Harrell said. “The boys stayed really locked in and excited to just have their opportunity to go out and play and compete and represent the school and community. I’m just proud that they’re taking the wins with class and they’re taking the losses as learning opportunities, and I think that’ll pay dividends.”

Vikes move on

state finals at Bedford Valley Golf Course.

“(The meet) was very competitive,” Whitehall coach Bill Borgman said. “I didn’t think it would be that competitive, to be honest. We were very hopeful (we would reach state), but very unsure based on the numbers we were shooting coming in.”

However, Whitehall’s top players came up big on the big stage. Senior Grace McDowell shot an 86 and freshman Riley Shafer had an 89 after both spent much of the second half of the season shooting in the 90s. Shafer scored a birdie on the par-5 14th hole.

Shafer’s performance was particularly impressive given her age; no other freshman in the regional field shot under a 100.

“She puts in the time,” Borgman said of Shafer. “She golfed all summer. She’ll come out and play golf by herself whenever she has a chance. She’ll practice by herself. She puts in the time, and putting all that extra effort in definitely pays

off.”

Morgan Garcia chipped in a 95 for Whitehall, and Kelsie McClure rounded out Viking scoring with a 102. Felicity Dingman had a 105.

The state finals bid marks the eighth for Whitehall in the 10 seasons since Borgman took over the program along with now-retired Greg Boughton. He said the team is shooting for a top-10 finish at the state meet.

“There’s a lot of good teams out there,” Borgman said. “The last I looked, we were probably ranked around 12th. Top 10 is our goal right now, and anything better than that would be awesome.”

Borgman added that he was thankful to the over three dozen club members who turned out to support the Vikings during the tournament.

“They all made the girls feel extremely welcome,” Borgman said. “We had a great turnout. The members loved it, and it was a beautiful day for golf and a beautiful result for Whitehall.”

way to do it for four quarters.

“I think (Byron Center) is a great program, great coaching staff. I don’t

know if that’s their ceiling or not, but we know that we have a lot more to give.”

Reeths-Puffer’s Saif Abunayla (center) splits a pair of Mona Shores defenders to attack the net during Monday’s game at R-P. The Rockets won, 6-1. • Andy Roberts/Mirror

Reeths-Puffer’s Elliot Schneider tries to recover after Byron Center quarterback Landon Tungate got away from him during Friday’s game at R-P. • Andy Roberts/Mirror

Police activity this week

Behind the Badge

Whitehall Police Report

Oct. 2

At 10:25 a.m. a “slumper” was reported in the 200 block of Colby St. When the officer arrived, he located a grandmother who had worked a night shift and then dropped off her grandkids for school. The Hesperia woman was sleepy and decided to stop for a moment, which lasted longer than planned. The driver was not intoxicated and continued on to home.

A minor scrape was the damage from a traffic collision at the intersection of Peterson and Alice streets.

A Twin Lake woman reported that at about 11:43 a.m. she was westbound on Alice entering the city when a black truck that was stopped on southbound Alice started into the intersection. The woman swerved to avoid the truck but there was a scuff mark on the rear fender. The truck continued on. There are no suspects in the case.

A traffic stop for loud exhaust led to the driver being cited for a 2nd Offense of Driving While License Suspended. The officer was on patrol in the 1000 block of Colby St. at 11:13 p.m. when the vehicle passed. When speaking with the 31-year-old driver, he presented an ID card instead of a license. A computer check on the Muskegon Heights resident showed his license to

be revoked by the State. The man was cited and released after the passenger took over driving.

Oct. 3

An on-duty officer, while doing routine checks on license plates in the 1000 block of Colby St., discovered that the owner of one of the vehicles was wanted for failing to appear in court on a burglary charge. The officer knocked on the door of the room and the suspect, a 41-year-old Muskegon man, answered the door. He was taken into custody without incident at 8:10 p.m. and taken to the Muskegon county jail where he was booked and lodged.

Oct. 4

A Shelby man reported that there were power tools stolen from his father’s home in the 8000 block of Peterson Rd. The father had died previously and those items were at the house in August. A recent visit to the property revealed the theft. There are no suspects or leads in the case at this time.

Oct. 5

A resident of the 1000 block of Alice St. reported that $3,500 worth of Detroit Lions football tickets were hacked from his online account. The victim received a notification about the Ticketmaster account and when it was checked, the tickets had all been transferred out. There is no suspect at this time.

A political campaign sign was reported stolen from the 900 block of Peach St. The caller reported hearing noises outside around 10:30 p.m. the night before and then discovered the sign had been taken in the morning. There are no suspects in the case.

Oct. 6

Whitehall Police are investigating a report of a possible sex assault that occurred Oct. 3. The incident occurred in the 500 block of Peach St., where the victim went to meet the accused after they first met online. The case will be

District thriller

continued from page 6

sent to the Muskegon County Prosecutor for review.

Oct. 7

Whitehall Police were called to the 1100 block of Colby St. for an unwanted person. When the officer arrived at the 3:55 p.m. call he spoke with a resident, who reported her ex-boyfriend was knocking and kicking at her door and throwing rocks at her window and he had a PPO against him. The man had left before the officer arrived but police were called again to the residence at 7:13 p.m. This time the officer had checked the man and he was not wanted and did not have any PPO restrictions. While speaking with the woman, the officer noted there was a large red tote outside her apartment. When asked, she denied knowing what was in the tote. When asked again she said it “might” be her ex-boyfriend’s things. The ex was located by that responding officer and he told the officer he was there trying to collect his things. The officer retrieved the red tote for the man, who was satisfied with getting the majority of his things back. No further action was taken.

At 4:55 p.m. Whitehall Police responded to a reported injury crash at the intersection of Alice Street and Peterson Road. The investigating officer reported that a vehicle traveling south on Peterson failed to stop at the intersection and struck an eastbound vehicle with five occupants. The first vehicle was driven by a 70-year-old Whitehall man and the second by a 37-year-old Whitehall woman. Three of the passengers in the woman’s vehicle reported injuries but no one was taken to the hospital. Whitehall Police were assisted on scene by the Montague Police Department and the White Lake Fire Authority.

A resident of the 700 block of Division St came to WHPD to report that

he had a political campaign sign stolen from a yard across the street from his house. The victim said that that house was vacant and so he put signs there. He suspected a neighbor, who has signs for the opposing candidate in their yard but did not see them, had taken the sign he posted. He also told the officer the sign had been taken several days ago. There are no suspects at this time.

Oct. 8

Police were called when neighbors in the 1200 block of Colby St. disputed over parking. The caller reported that she had left but returned because they had forgotten something and parked in the drive because of the short amount of time. When she came outside at about 10:52 a.m., a neighbor was taking video of her and her vehicle. The neighbor told the officer the parked vehicle was blocking her from exiting a parking space so she could go to work and the video was intended for the complex management. No further action was taken.

Whitehall Police were dispatched to a missing person call and shortly after were called to an indecent exposure complaint. The officers first responded to the 2:55 p.m. indecent exposure call and spoke to a woman, who said she entered the parking lot of Covell Park to turn around and as she was exiting, a man in red sweatpants “mooned” her, but she saw more than just his buttocks. Officers quickly located the suspect and then as quickly identified him as the missing person. The officers also noted the suspect had disabilities. The suspect was taken to his friend on Mears Avenue and the friend told officer they had been out for a walk when he lost sight of the suspect. The case is being sent to the Muskegon County Prosecutor for review.

that muscle that Mulnix is able to play, as doctors say he can’t do more damage to it.

“Me and the assistant coaches all had a little voodoo prayer meeting,” Prince smiled. “We were hoping but we waited. We got a text message right before the team dinner yesterday that he was cleared to play.”

The team dinner included former Vikings’ coach Bryan Mahan, Mulnix said, who preached team soccer and everyone doing their job.

“My job was to put the ball in the back of the net to bring us on to the next round. That’s what I had to do,” Mulnix said.

Fellow captain Tyler Van Antwerp never stopped admiring Mulnix throughout his absence from the field, noting that even on crutches, the senior was the Vikings’ most vocal supporter

on the bench. He was confident that Mulnix would have no trouble acclimating himself back into the lineup.

“That’s what a leader does, and that’s what a captain does especially,” Van Antwerp said with an unmistakable note of pride. “Mason’s one of those people who‘s intelligent. We’ve been playing with him for a long time where if we threw him right in, the chemistry’s there. I think the big thing about this team is chemistry. I would trust every one of these people to do anything.”

Whitehall scored within the first minute of the game when Andon Palmer raced through the Eagle defense for a goal. Oakridge almost immediately responded with a tying score, but Palmer added a second goal later in the half when the ball came loose on a corner kick amidst a mass of bodies. Tommy Leeke added the Vikings’ third goal with

seven minutes to play before halftime.

Prince said Whitehall (7-9-1) missed some chances to add further to the lead late in the game, though perhaps it was all worth it to presage Mulnix’ incredible finish.

“In the first half and second half, I thought we missed multiple opportunities to put it away,” Prince said. “We just couldn’t finish...I’m glad in the end, the kid came off the bench and did what he did.”

Whitehall’s Ian Hinze (center) tries to get the ball past Oakridge keeper Isaac Willard for a goal during Wednesday’s pre-district game at Whitehall. The Vikings won in overtime, 5-3. • Andy Roberts/Mirror