The Oceana Echo - Volume 2, Issue 19, Oct. 4, 2024 by theoceanaecho

AVAILABLE

Echo

YOUR LOCALLY OWNED AND OPERATED NONPROFIT NEWS SOURCE

Thank you to this week’s Lead This Legacy donors Coral Brischke Anonymous Douglas Dykstra

READER:

INSIDE THIS WEEK’S WHITE LAKE MIRROR: North Grove back in business after fire

• Connie VanDerZanden/Echo

Pentwater Arts, Crafts & Antiques Fair

3rd Annual Artwalk in downtown Hart is a celebration of local artists

The 3rd Annual Artwalk in Downtown Hart, where creativity meets community will be Oct. 5 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.! This vibrant event will showcase the works of eight talented artists displayed in local businesses, providing a unique opportunity for attendees to engage with the artists and learn about the stories behind their art.

Featured Artists and Art Stops:

• Alan Moul: Watercolors @ Birch and Blossom

• Michael Nabicht: Watercolors @ Hegg’s Furniture

• Keyci Luna: Paintings & Photography @ LaProbadita

• Gail Zeiger: Paintings @ Dale & Gail’s Theatre & Art Gallery

• Debbie Bergren: Oil on Canvas @ Lakeside Family Fitness

• Brittny DeVries: Watercolor & Vase Art @ Bakery on the Corner

• Laurie Zwack: Painting with a Purpose @ Cup of Kindness

• Hart Middle School: Student Art @ Morningside Pallet Merchandise

• Empty Canvas: Live Duet & Interactive Painting Performance @ Hart Commons

• Emily Miller: Sidewalk Chalk Artist @ Hart Commons

• Luke Kostal: Hand Carved Wooden Birds @ Stella’s Coffee House

• Variety of Vintage Art & Quilt Show @ Oceana Historical & Genealogical Society

Artists and performers, Empty Canvas, will be performing live at Hart Commons. During the show, lead singer Mike McMath will complete an entire painting based on an image provided. The audience gets to be a part of the show as Mike brings members of the audience up on stage to add their

own strokes to the painting. Crowds are always amazed when they realize Mike’s not only painting during the show, but singing too. Bring a lawn chair and enjoy the show.

Artists will set up in various locations to paint their favorite view of downtown for a chance to win one of two $750 cash prizes. To participate in this event visit takemetohart.org/hartprize.

Enjoy burgers, pulled pork, pizzas, kettle corn, Greek food, and tacos!

New this year, hosted by Oceana Bike & Boat located in downtown Hart, is The Ride H.O.M.E. which stands for “The Hart, Oceana, Montague, Experience.” This event is an out and back rail trail bike event along the William Field Memorial Hart-Montague Rail Trail. Participants choose the distance, but the full distance will be from Hart

to Montague and back. Riders receive a commemorative water bottle or shirt and there are aid stations along the way. Registration available at oceanabikeandboat.com/events.

A rock painting station will be setup at Hart Commons where the public is invited to use the materials provided to get creative with rock painting.

Last but not least, Birch and Blossom invites all to participate in a Pumpkin Pie Competition by dropping off a pie (in a disposable dish) at Birch & Blossom by Friday, Oct. 4 at 11 a.m. No cost to participate, two divisions (public and business). The public can enjoy complimentary pumpkin pie at Birch & Blossom during Artwalk.

For any questions or further information, please contact Nichole Kleiner at nkleiner@cityofhart.org or (231) 923-0920.

City of Hart discusses fire hydrant concerns

By Sharon Hallack The Oceana Echo Community Correspondent

HART - At Tuesday’s Hart City Council meeting, City Manager Rob Splane provided an update to council members regarding recent concerns over the city’s non-working fire hydrants.

For context, Splane shared a document dated Aug. 1, 2023, of a meeting held in February of that same year, where he, along with DPW Superintendent Brad Whitney, Hart Fire Chief Dwight Fuehring and Oceana’s Emergency Manager Troy Maloney, had met to discuss the city’s water system, fire hydrant maintenance and emergency planning.

The report titled “Working Together for Public Safety” included several fire hydrant concerns to be addressed, including, the creation of an updated water system map, ordering

easier-to-see signage, creating a hydrant maintenance policy and hydrant exercise policy, having a record of information for each individual hydrant, and training/education, including basic hydraulics coursework, as presented by the State of Michigan, for all firefighters. The report also noted this collaboration marked the first time in decades the city and fire department had worked so closely together.

Following that meeting, the fire department asked and was granted permission to flush all of the city’s hydrants themselves, a task usually conducted annually by the DPW. As a result, they came up with a list of concerns. Splane stated that despite numerous attempts to get the list, he had not received it until recently. “We’re not placing blame. Now that we know (which hydrants are of concern) we are acting on it,” he said.

Rumors have been circulating that the city has 30 hydrants that do not work. Splane clarified those rumors by saying technically there are only nine hydrants completely inoperable, with the other 21 considered “difficult to use.”

In Splane’s explanation of the situation to the council, he feels that a hydraulic class would be a benefit to all county firefighters. “Our intention would be to invite all area firefighters to attend,” he said.

The fire department reported they would like hydrants color-coded to indicate each hydrant’s water flow. However, to limit the city’s liability, Splane suggested it might be better to color-code hydrants with what type of water main a hydrant is connected to. The fire department would also like the city to use larger and brighter “out of service” rings on non-functioning hydrants.

In other business, the city approved two resolutions. Resolution 2024-25, accepted the engagement agreement with Maner Costerisan for single audit services for FY 2024 in the amount of $5,000 and FY 2025 in the amount of $5,200. A single audit is required anytime a municipality spends $800,000 or more in federal funds, which the city has done with all of its recent infrastructure projects. Resolution 2024-26 approved the MPPA’s (Michigan Public Power Agency) recommendation to take 25 percent of the city’s ownership share in the group and put it towards the MPPA’s Belle River contracts, which in part will convert the plant from coal to natural gas. As part of MPPA, the City of Hart actually owns part of the plant. “The energy purchase from Belle River is less costly than what we purchase on the open market,” said Splane.

Hesperia crowned Kennedy Mey and Blake Sayer as its 2024 Homecoming Queen and King during halftime at this past Friday’s varsity football game. The Panthers took on the Shelby Tigers in a very close match-up, falling 30-25. • Brendan Samuels/Echo

Ribbon-cutting in Hesperia for new pavilion at Vida Weaver Park

By Scott Kroepel

The Oceana Echo Community Correspondent

The Village of Hesperia and the Hesperia Beautification Group recently completed the new pavilion at Vida Weaver Park, and celebrated with a ribbon-cutting ceremony Sept. 20.

“The ribbon cutting today is the culmination of our dream to build a multi-use pavilion in Vida Weaver Park,” said Sally Kraley of the Hesperia Beautification Group. “This project was spearheaded by Beautification and was stuck for several years in the planning stages until we realized that we could not complete this project alone. With the help of several grants, financial support and encouragement from the village, and a donor-driven capital campaign, we were able to start construction and finally dedicate this beautiful and functional space to

the Hesperia community today.”

The pavilion includes space for local families, visitors, anglers, school groups and is available to support a range of other activities.

“There are a lot of positive things happening in Hesperia, especially downtown,” said Mark Kraus of the Hesperia Chamber of Commerce. ”The Chamber is excited to see how we can incorporate this new space into our existing community events and find new ways to attract people to our downtown area and to the White River.”

The project cost approximately $140,000 and was funded by grants and donations from the Michigan Economic Development Corpora-

tion in partnership with The Right Place, Oceana County via funds from the American Rescue Plan, the Village of Hesperia via funds from the American Rescue Plan, the Oceana Foundation, Gerber Credit Union, and other private businesses and local donors that were recognized at the dedication.

Mike Seng Enterprises was the contractor for the project.

Carl Weigand was honored Thursday, Aug. 22 in front of a full grandstand at the Oceana County Fair by Board President Paul Erickson on behalf of the fair’s board of directors. Weigand is currently vice president of the board and said he has been associated with the Oceana County Fair for 70 years! Thank you for your dedication and service, Carl!

• Contributed photo

NOTICE OF ADOPTION OF OCEANA COUNTY ANIMAL CONTROL ORDINANCE

PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that at a meeting held on the 26th day, September 2024, the Oceana County Board of Commissioners, as authorized by the Dog Law of 1919, MCL 287.289a, adopted the Oceana County Animal Control Ordinance, to provide for animal control programs, facilities, personnel and necessary expenses incurred in animal control to take effect 30 days from the date of this publication. Public comment will be accepted regarding this ordinance via email at admin@oceana.mi.us. All emails will be forwarded to the Oceana County Board of Commissioners. A copy of the Ordinance is available for public inspection in the office of the Oceana County Clerk or by scanning the QR Code below.

*Specializing in fearful and reactive dogs* FREE PRIVATE CONSULTATIONS!

Boarding: $25 per day

Training - Private lessons: $180+

Board and trains: $350+

Grooming: Nail trims: $5

*Ask about other grooming services CUSTOMIZED PACKAGES AVAILABLE teampercypetcenter.com

231-867-0489 • teampercytraining@gmail.com

-

Amy L. Anderson Oceana County Clerk

MANY BLESSINGS Mkt

Our Mkt building is open as available

We feature homemade jam, pie filling, honey, maple syrup and craft items

Available: fall decor, pumpkins, new potatoes, garlic, and select winter squash

Self-serve open 24/7 for fresh produce Located 1/2 mile E. of Crystal Valley on Madison Rd. Please call to confirm product or to place orders (231) 873-4844 • Jill Whitaker

Sally Kraley of the Hesperia Beautification group and Village President Mike Farber cut the ribbon at the new Vida Weaver Park pavillion, with many of the pavilion donors looking on.

• Scott Kroepel/Echo

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

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

Various tidbits of Oceana history

By Caleb Jackson

The Oceana Echo Community Columnist

The history of Oceana is rich and deep, but not all of the stories are long enough to fill a newspaper column. This week I have combed the pages of our history books and collected some smaller stories that might be interesting to bring to light.

One day, back in July 1864, we received a visitor who mysteriously disappeared. He was a Scotchman from Washtenaw County. No name was given, but it was presumed that he had considerable money on his person, as he was out “looking land,” and he talked about making a purchase should he find something that suited him. About the first day of August, this visitor stopped at H.S. Sayles’ house in Elbridge to ask about the lands in the area, but Mr. Sayles was not home. Our guest then set out down an Indian trail to try and find Mr. Sayles and was never seen nor heard from again.

Another interesting story took

place on Oct. 14 of the same year. A lady named W. H. Cheney was heading out from Pentwater “mounted on her trusty horse” and heading towards her home near Hart. While on her way, a man sprang out from some bushes, grasped for Mrs. Cheney’s bridle, missed and instead grabbed onto the horse itself. According to Hartwick and Tuller, “Mrs. Cheney, noticing this, gave her horse a cut with the whip and started at a gallop, dragging the man some two or three rods.” The would-be thief then tried to pull himself up by grabbing Mrs. Cheney’s dress, but she struck the horse once again, and “he was obliged to relinquish his hold and fell by the road.” It is noted that she reached home safe and sound, “minus a portion of her dress left in the ruffian’s clutch.”

A few “firsts” were experienced in 1864 by some of the townships as well. Weare saw its first birth, and in Otto the town cemetery had its first body interred. A young man named Edwin Barbed was struck and killed by a falling plate during a barn raising. The first school district in Golden

was also organized in this year. DeHaven’s Imperial Circus visited Pentwater June 18, 1867, and was the first ever “show” to make a stop in Oceana. Local papers estimated that half of the county’s population was present in Pentwater that day. Hart Village had its first celebration on July 4 this year, consisting of “dinner in the woods, speaking, music, etc.”

The county’s first formally organized club was also started in Hart this year. It was a baseball club, appropriately named the “Pioneer Base Ball Club.”

July 5, 1867 was also the beginning of daily mail in Pentwater, as opposed to weekly, or, as seldom as one may have gotten. I’m sure this came as a huge relief to the residents of the time. Benona was also born this year, after the Township of Leroy officially changed its name.

The first county church bell arrived in November 1867. It was placed upon a dock and “a continual ding dong was heard all day” as “each visitor tested it by striking it with a hammer or some other hard substance.”

Lastly, Hartwick and Tuller close

out the year of 1867 with these “sundry notes,” which I find to be in stark contrast, demonstrating the simple thrills of pioneer life, among the absolute tragedies that could commonly take place: “In July, H.H. Woods puts in the first soda fountain at Pentwater. In November, the schooner Kate Doak is wrecked and two lives lost.”

By Mort Wiegand The Oceana Echo Volunteer Contributor

October is an exciting time for the Oceana County Historical & Genealogical Society starting with the Golden Fair Friday, Oct. 4. This year’s Golden Fair King and Queen are Leo Arredondo and Nayeli Torres, respectively. The parade will take place at 1 p.m. through downtown Mears. If anyone missed picking up a copy of the special edition of the Mears Newz for this event, extra copies are available at

both The Golden Eatery and Wilson’s General Store in Mears.

The OCH&GS will also participate in the Hart Artwalk from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 5.

The OCH&GS Board of Directors would like to honor all of the Society’s volunteers (or potential volunteers) at its annual Volunteer Appreciation Dinner, Tuesday, Oct. 8 at 6 p.m. at the Mears United Methodist Church, with a punch bowl at 5:30 p.m.

This will be an evening of food, fellowship and sharing stories of this past year. For their program,

the

they will feature a pre-recorded historical presentation entitled “Mackinac’s Island House Hotel - A Family Legacy.”

Volunteers do not need to bring anything. Board members are asked to provide a large side dish or dessert (10-15 servings) to go with baked ham.

With all of these special dates on the upcoming horizon, it is also important to note that there were 21 visitors and three inquiries on the computer at the Chadwick-Munger House for the month of the September. The headquarters of the OCH&GS is open every Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

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. Saturdays: Celebrate worship gathering, 6:30 p.m. Complete schedule at: theladdercommunitycenter.com

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.

Child Evangelism Fellowship Fall Faith Fund Banquet

Shoreline Child Evangelism Fellowship (CEF) will have its Fall Faith Fund Banquet, Tuesday, Oct. 8, beginning at 6 p.m. at Cornerstone Baptist Church, located at 121 Nelson Rd., in Ludington. Dinner tickets are $25 each and should be reserved by Tuesday, Oct. 1 using the QR code at right, emailing shorelinecef@gmail.com or calling 231-8612225.

“People can use the QR code to reserve tickets or donate toward the ministry. Our giving goal for the evening is $8,500,” Director Sean Southwell added.

Enjoy an evening of reconnecting and hearing how CEF is impacting children and the greater community with the love of Christ. A love offering will also be taken. Further questions about the banquet can be directed to Sean Southwell at 517-282-6694.

October

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

Oct. 4 - Shelby Homecoming Parade, 4:30 - 5:30 p.m.

Oct. 4 - Feeding America Food Truck, Walkerville Public Schools, 145 Lathrop St., Walkerville, 5 p.m.

Oct. 4 - “Seraph Brass Quartet”, Hart Auditorium, 7:30 p.m.

Oct. 5 - Hart ArtWalk, Downtown Hart, 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Oct. 5 - The Ride H.O.M.E. (Hart, Oceana, Michigan, Experience) Bike Ride, sponsored by Oceana Bike and Boat, Hart Montague Rail Trail State Park, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Oct. 6 - MIThrives Health Surveys due Oct. 8 - Tech Time, Hesperia Comm. Library, 1:30-2:30 p.m.

Oct. 8 - Shelby-Benona Fire Department Open House, 430 Industrial Park Drive, Shelby, 5-8 p.m.

Oct. 8 - Child Evangelism Fellowship Fall Faith Fund Dinner, 121 Nelson Rd., Ludington, 6 p.m. Reservations required. Oct. 10 - Teen Night, Hesperia Comm. Library, 3:30-5:30 p.m.

Oct. 10 - Shelby Congregational United Church of Christ Annual Railroad Supper, 51 E. Third Street, Shelby, 5-7 p.m.

Oct. 11 - OCEA Annual Update Breakfast, W. Mich. Research Station, 5185 N. Oceana Dr., Hart, 7:30 a.m. Registration required. Oct. 12 - Pentwater Home Tour to benefit COVE, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

COVE home tour in Pentwater set for Oct. 12

The Pentwater Home Tour to benefit COVE will take place Saturday, Oct. 12.

This year’s home tour includes six beautiful homes located in Pentwater, including one home on Pentwater Lake and two cottages on the channel. 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. In addition, home tour sponsors from Oceana and Mason counties are featured throughout the booklet.

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

Plein Air Painting Competition Oct. 5 in Hart

The H-art Project is now accepting registrations to compete in this year’s HartPrize event for a chance to win $750. This year’s contest is a Plein Air Painting Competition where artists are invited to choose a scene to paint from a designated outdoor location downtown any time between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Oct. 5. An exhibit featuring the completed paintings, titled “Hart in Motion,” will be on display throughout the month of October where the public is encouraged to vote for their favorite in each category (beginner/intermediate and advanced/professional). Voting instructions will be available beginning Oct. 5, 2024, during Artwalk. The winning artist in each category will be announced Nov. 1 and awarded the $750 HartPrize.

“We are excited about this contest and can’t wait to see what scenes of our beautiful downtown are chosen to paint! We encourage people of all skill levels to enter and compete for significant cash prizes,” states Economic and Community Development Director Nichole Kleiner.

Contest details and rules, along with the link to register, may be found at takemetohart.org/hartprize. There is a $10 registration fee to compete in the event. If you have any questions, please contact Kleiner at (231) 923-0920.

OCCOA offers many October events for area seniors

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

Breakfast is available Thursday mornings, 8:30–9 a.m. Cost: $3, reservations required. Drum Fitness: Tuesdays, Oct. 8, 15, 22 and 29; 10

a.m.

Chair Volleyball: Fridays, Oct. 4, 11, 18 and 25; 10

a.m.

Zumba: Fridays, Oct. 4, 11, 18 and 25; 9 a.m.

Bingo: Thursdays, Oct. 10, 17, 24 and 31; 10:30 a.m.

Flu/COVID Vaccine Clinic w/DHD#10: Friday, Oct. 11; 9-11 a.m.

Fall Color Tour: Monday, Oct. 14; 9 a.m.

Shopping Trip: Oct. 18; 9 a.m.

Dinner and Movie: Tuesday, Oct. 22; 3:30 p.m.

Quilt Shop Hop: Friday, Oct. 25; 9 a.m.

Beltone: Wednesday, Oct. 23; by appointment

Caregiver Support Group: Wednesday, Oct. 16; 10 a.m.

Board Meeting: Tuesday, Oct. 22; 1:30 p.m.

Assistive Device Clinic: Tuesday, Oct. 29; 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Trunk or Treat: Tuesday, Oct. 29; 4 p.m.

Roaring 20s Halloween Lunch and Party: Thursday, Oct. 31; noon

Parmenter O’Toole Office Hours: Please call 8734461 for an appointment.

Lauren Eisenbarth, an elder law paralegal for Attorney Anna Urick Duggins of Parmenter Law, will offer a half-hour, no-charge introductory meeting from 2-4 p.m. at Oceana County Council on Aging. Topics to discuss include elder law services such as estate planning, long-term care planning, Medicaid planning and VA aid and attendance.

Other Activities:

Farkle: Mondays at 10 a.m.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Bingo: Thursdays at 10:30 a.m.

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

Bridge: Thursdays from 1-3 p.m.

Cribbage: Fridays at 9:30 a.m.

Kaffeeklatsch: daily at 10 a.m.

Cards & Games: daily following lunch.

In Loving Memory of our Family, Friends and Neighbors

obituaries

Warren Bradley Smith

August 19, 1930 ~ September 29, 2024

Warren Bradley Smith, 94, of Englewood, Fla. passed away on Sunday, Sept. 29, 2024. He was born Aug. 19, 1930 in Berne, Ind., to Clare and Gertrude Smith.

Brad resided in Ferry Township, where he and his family owned and worked at Smith Crate Works. In 1951, he entered the Air Force. After the Air Force, he returned to the family business. In 1952, he met and married Virginia McClain. After the business was sold, he moved to Shelby, Mich., in 1965. He worked for DuPont in Montague for eight years before opening his own business, Shelby Box and Pallet in the Shelby Industrial Park.

Brad served as a volunteer fireman and served on the Shelby Village Council. Upon retirement in 1999, he and Ginny spent their winters in Englewood, Fla. After Ginny’s death in 2000, he made Englewood his permanent home.

Brad enjoyed bowling, golfing and fishing in his younger years. In later years, he enjoyed spending time in his small woodworking shop, where he made trucks, airplanes, boats, sea turtles and whatever he was interested in at the time.

Family and friends received these handmade gifts to cherish. Brad loved family gatherings and enjoyed hosting friends who would come down to Florida and spend a couple of days.

He was a member of the Ludington Methodist Church before transferring to the Englewood Methodist Church.

Brad is survived by: his loving companion Carol Kistler; daughters, Kathy (Roger) Schecter and Gina Smith; sister, Mary Glover; grandchildren, Brad (Sophia) Schecter and Drake Fulker; great-grandchildren, Jack and Claire Schecter; and many loving nephews and nieces.

Brad was preceded in death by: his parents; wife, Ginny; daughter, Sharon Fulker; brothers, Lamont Smith, Larry Smith and Roger Smith; and sisters; Verl Sanderson, Kathleen Smith and Donna Snyder.

Cremation has taken place, and upon his request, there will be no service.

The family will share memories and celebrate his life upon interment in the spring at the Shelby Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to Tidewell Hospice of Venice, Fla.

Death Notice ~ Mindy Lynn Dempsey

Mindy Lynn Dempsey, 44, of Shelby, passed away Wednesday, Sept. 25, 2024. She was born July 26, 1980, in Shelby. In accordance with Mindy’s wishes, cremation has taken place and services will be held at a later date.

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

Janet Marie Bennett

December 27, 1945 ~ September 23, 2024

Janet Marie Bennett of Birch Run, Mich., 78, passed away after prolonged health issues, Monday, Sept. 23, 2024 at Cov enant Medical Center in Saginaw, Mich. Mass of Christian Burial took place at 11 a.m., Monday, Sept. 30, 2024 at the Ss. Francis and Clare Catholic Parish in Birch Run with Rev. Fr. David Jenuwine officiating. Family received visitors at the parish on Monday from 10 a.m. until the time of the Mass. Burial followed in Birch Run Cemetery, Birch Run, Mich. with a luncheon afterwards at the parish. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Lung Association.

Janet was born Dec. 27, 1945 to the late Leroy and Rose (Van Troostenberghe) Warner and grew up on the family farm in the Pleasant Valley area of Brighton Township. Janet graduated from Brighton High School in 1964 and then received a bachelor’s degree majoring in Latin (education minor) from Siena Heights College. She married Steve Bennett Nov. 29, 1968 in Brighton, Mich. Janet was known for her love of writing. Family/friends enjoyed receiving her frequent mailed letters and cards with well wishes. She wrote many poems, letters to the editor, as well as journals for her beloved grandchildren. She also enjoyed reading and advocating for important causes, especially for the unborn and pro-life legislation. Janet had a deep faith in God and was a longtime member of Ss. Francis and Clare Catholic Parish in Birch Run, where she served in various capacities.

Surviving are: her chhildren, Teresa (Guy Allen) Brady of Charlotte, N.C., Timothy (Kerry) Bennett of Clio, Mich., and Daniel (Lynn) Bennett of Tecumseh, Mich.; grandchildren: Jessica, Tyler, Amelia, Anna, Megan, Kaitlyn and Virginia; siblings, Fred (Shirley) Warner, Elroy (Laura) Warner, Chuck Warner, Dennis Warner, Julie Dunn and Lorrie (Kevin) VanDyke; along with many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband and brothers, E. Timothy Warner and Donald L. Warner.

O’Guinn Family Funeral Homes Birch Run Chapel is in charge of arrangements. www.oguinnfh.com

Barbara Ann Sheren

June 12, 1950 ~ September 24, 2024

Barbara Ann Sheren, 74, of Montague, passed away Tuesday, Sept. 24, 2024. She was born June 12, 1950, the daughter of William and Genevieve (Settler) Duncan. Barbara graduated from Pentwater in 1968. After high school, she attended Central Michigan University and graduated from Michigan State with a Master’s Degree in Education. Throughout her career as an educator, she worked for Mona Shores High School, Montague Schools and Muskegon Area Intermediate Schools.

Barbara enjoyed the beach, boating, golfing and traveling. She loved a great meal and good conversation. She was an active member of Toastmasters. Most of all, she loved her family and friends.

Barbara is survived by: her daughters, Jennifer Sheren and Susan (Eric) Heath; grandchildren, Anthony Morse, Elleighanya Sheren, Mason Heath and Caroline Heath; siblings, Jill (Frank) Buckingham, David (Barbara) Duncan, Helayne (Cam) Helms, Paul Duncan and Peter (Sherri) Duncan; and several nieces and nephews.

Barbara was preceded in death by her parents, William and Genevieve Duncan. Memorial services will be conducted at 11 a.m., Saturday, Oct. 5, 2024, at White Lake United Methodist Church, 8555 Cook St., Montague, MI 49461, with Reverend Timothy Dibble presiding. Visitation will take place at 10 a.m., until time of service, with a luncheon immediately following the service at the church.

Beacon Cremation & Funeral Service, White Lake Chapel, is in charge of arrangements. beaconfh.com

St. Peter’s-By-The-Lake Episcopal Church 8435 Old Channel Trail, Montague 616-894-0172 SUNDAY EUCHARIST – 10:00 am stpetersmontague@gmail.com stpetersbythelake.weebly.com

Barbara ‘Barb’ (Mallison) Willick

May

1, 1944 ~ September 18, 2024

Barbara “Barb” (Mallison) Willick, 80, of Hart, passed away Wednesday, Sept. 18, 2024, at Trinity Health Hospi tal in Muskegon, with her loving family at her side. She fought a determined and courageous battle against cancer.

Barb was born on May 1, 1944, the daughter of Darwin and Virginia (Herin) Mallison. She grew up a farm girl on her parent’s farm near Ferry, Mich. She graduated Shelby High School in 1962, a beautiful young teenager, where she first met her one and only love, Lyle Arthur “Art” Willick, whom she married in 1966. They recently celebrated their 58th wedding an niversary. Barb made many lifelong friends, not only locally, but through the years as she moved with her family to the Kalamazoo area; Anderson, Ind.; Port Huron, Grant, and finally back home to rural Ferry and most recently to Hart.

Barb was not only a housewife, as she helped raise her family, but enjoyed several different career experiences over the years. Travel, too, was always something that she looked forward to. She and Art traveled to Germany, California, Alaska, Florida, New Orleans and the UP, to name a few places.

If someone mentioned playing cards, Barb was always more than ready and could get together a group of friends at a moment’s notice. A sporting event or other activity that involved any of her grandchildren, you could expect to see her in the bleachers or audience. Of course, she seldom missed the Thursday night “fertilizer” meeting and was always ready to dance if someone mentioned a favorite local band was playing somewhere not too far away. She also really enjoyed knitting, reading, gardening, painting, bird watching with her cat, Prince, and sunsets at the Oval with Art, either in the 1929 Model A or the 1971 Cutlass, a car they have owned for 31 years. The Model A was given to Art by his uncle “Stub” in 1957. Barb and Art dated in this car in high school and went to prom in it in 1959. They have owned the car for 65 years, and it has Barb’s initials on the passenger door – a lasting permanent memory of her.

Barb was also passionate about her faith, praying for her family and friends. She will be sadly missed by family and friends.

Barb was an incredibly caring and loving woman. She had a great and unconditional love for her family, beginning with Art; daughter, Jenni (Jeff) Trosper; sons, Todd (Jennell) Willick and Ross (Julie) Willick; grandchildren, Brianna, Hannah, Brody, Reese, Brynnley and Morgan; younger sister, Joan (Al) Smith; sisters-in-law, Joyce Mallison and Doreen (Mike) Jacobson; brothers-in-law, Roger (Diane) Willick and Gary (Sally) Willick; many beloved nieces and nephews. Barb also enjoyed life and experienced it to the fullest with not only family but many close friends.

Barb was preceded in death by her parents and a brother, Gordon, who died at birth, her in-laws, Lyle and Marge Willick, a nephew, Michael Mallison and her brother-in-law, Gary Copus.

A celebration of life was held at 11:30 a.m., Wednesday, Sept. 25, 2024, at Shelby United Methodist Church, 51 E. Third St., Shelby, Mich. 49455, with Pastor Beverly Williams officiating. The family received friends from 5-8 p.m., Tuesday, Sept., 24, 2024, at Shelby United Methodist Church, and again from 10-11:30 a.m., Sept. 25, 2024, also at Shelby United Methodist Church.

Please consider memorial gifts to: The Ladder Community Center, 67 N. State St., Shelby, Mich. 49455 or Crystal Valley Care Fund, P.O. Box 451, Hart, Mich. 49420.

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

Dixie Lee Murawa

May 11, 1938 ~ September 23, 2024

Dixie Lee Murawa, 86, of Ludington, formerly of Ly ons, passed away on Monday, Sept. 23, 2024.

Dixie was born on May 11, 1938, the daughter of the late Otto and Elonore (Lindsey) Horrocks. In 1956, she graduated from Lyons High School. Shortly after high school, on June 30, 1956, she married James Murawa.

Dixie worked for the State of Michigan as a Correctional Officer, as well as an attendant at Ionia State Hospital. She was employed for a combined 30 years. She was an avid member of the American Legion Aux iliary. In her spare time, she loved crossword puzzles and traveling. Her favorite nights were those spent with friends and family playing Mexican Train.

Dixie is survived by: her daughter, Julie (Mike Byrnes) Glover; grandson, James (Amy) Murawa and their children, Marshall and Lisa; granddaughter, Hannah (Mark) Boulet, and their children, Elijah, Josiah, Ezra and Micah; siblings, Shirley Houghton, Ken Horrocks, Geraldine Brown, Linny (Cindy) Horrocks and Jim Horrocks; brother-in-laws, Larry Murawa (Karen) and Tom Murawa (Mary). In addition, she will be missed by many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Dixie was preceded in death by her husband, James Murawa Sr.; son, James Murawa Jr.; and parents, Otto and Elonore Horrocks.

A memorial gathering will be held on Saturday, Oct. 12, 2024, from 1-3 p.m. at Muir-Lyons VFW Post 4646 (223 E. Bridge St., Lyons, Mich.).

Arrangements were entrusted to Oak Grove Funeral Home of Ludington, www.OakGroveLudington.com.

Judith (Judy) Eisenlohr

July 22, 1937 ~ September 28, 2024

Judith (Judy) Eisenlohr of Shelby passed away on Sat urday, Sept. 28, 2024, surrounded by her loving family. Judy was born on July 22, 1937, in Hart to Marshall and Rhoda Spencer.

Judy was born into a farm family and learned how to work hard at an early age. She also learned to give with a big heart and was a supporter of anything her family was involved in. Judy graduated in 1955 from Hart High School and then went to Davenport College, after which she worked for a few years before marrying Norman Eisenlohr on Dec. 26, 1959 and staying home to raise their family. Judy was active in Hart Homemakers, Helping Hands and the Ladies Aid at Elbridge Community Church. She loved the Oceana County Fair, whether it was taking items to exhibit (including this year), watching her kids, then grandkids and then great-grandkids show their animals, or just socializing and eating that ‘once a year’ wonderful fair food. Judy also had a love for Anna Maria Island, which was a second home to her; going yearly with her parents when young and continuing after Norman retired, sitting daily on the beach absorbing the sun and enjoying their ‘later’ years. Judy and Norman had many adventures, having lived in Egypt and Taiwan for a few months (while Norman worked for Teledyne), traveling around the United States and taking family to Disney World, where It’s A Small World was her favorite ride (just kidding, she really didn’t like it). Judy loved to sew, collect dolls, tend to her flower garden, feed and watch the birds and spend time at the family cabin on Campbell Lake. She was always looking for a reason to get family together, making sure everyone had a special day for their birthday and that everyone had a handmade sock for Christmas. Holidays won’t be the same without Judy being in the middle of it all. Judy lived a full and happy life, was friends with everyone and was loved by all.

Judy is survived by: her children Al (Marinia) Eisenlohr, Dolphie (Rachel) Eisenlohr and Jill (Tom) Merten; 11 grandchildren, Chris (Meliza) Eisenlohr, Jessie (Quinn) Rycenga, Abby (David) Calderhead, Dan Eisenlohr, Leah (Andrew) Huston, Nick Eisenlohr, Dolph Eisenlohr, Lindsey Merten, Ethan (Susan) Merten, Whitney (Zack) Hintz; 17 great-grandchildren, JadaRae, Braelyn, Gunnar, Mackenzie, Jace, Merrie, Eleanor, Edison, Isla, James, Evan, Noah, Miranda, Thomas, Emily, Ryder and Colten; and several cousins, nieces and nephews. She is also survived by her sister, Karen Longcore; many special close friends and her cat Ginny.

Judy was preceded in death by: her husband Norman; and grandson Cody Eisenlohr.

Memorial services will be conducted at 4 p.m., Thursday, Oct. 10, 2024, at Elbridge Community Church, 2370 N. 136th Ave., Hart, Mich. 49420, with Pastor Nate Parsekian officiating. The family will receive friends from 3 p.m. until services at 4 p.m., Thursday, Oct. 10, 2024, at Elbridge Community Church. Interment will follow in Elbridge Township Cemetery. A luncheon will be provided. Memorial contributions can be directed to a charity of your choice in Judy’s name.

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

Ann Virginia Pagura

June 24, 1984 ~ September 27, 2024

Ann Virginia Pagura, 40, of Hart, a loving mother, wife, daughter and sister, passed peacefully in her home on Friday, Sept. 27, 2024. Born to William Cyphers and Kelly Aiken on June 24, 1984, Ann grew to be known by those close to her as a generous woman of fierce conviction, infectious laughter and impenetrable protectiveness.

Ann was an entrepreneur who brought her visions out into our physical world, leaving behind many keepsakes of her creative spirit through her design work for family, friends and local establishments like the VFW, the police department, sports teams and frequented places to eat and drink.

Her soul was as beautiful and enthralling as her handwriting. It took up so much more space than the 4 feet, 10 3/4 of an inch that she stood, though she was nearly a terrifying five feet taller than any person she yanked from a bar stool.

Ann will continue to garner love from those by whom she is survived: husband, Josh Pagura; daughter, Bella Hammerle; mother, Kelly Aiken; brothers, Justin Chupp and Will Cyphers; sisters, Rachel Schutter and Natalie Cyphers; nephew, Liam Chupp; mother-in-law, Denise Pagura; father-in-law, Steve Pagura; and sisters-in-law, Angela Pagura-DeSanto and Christina Pagura; as well as a multitude of adoring members of her extended family. Ann also leaves behind many special friends whom she spoke highly of, including Jessie White, Melissa Shefke, Jeremy Ehrke, Barbi Farber and Katie Farber.

Memorial services will be held at 2 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 5, 2024, centrally located between Hesperia and Hart at 3863 E. Baseline Rd., Hesperia, MI, 49421. A structure will be placed to receive pictures, trinkets, or any other offerings to honor her and leave with her daughter.

May the presence of her love, passion and protection be always felt in her absence.

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

FROM KING FEATURES WEEKLY SERVICE,

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

628 Virginia Drive, Orlando, FL 32803

• On Oct. 7, 1985, Lynette Woodard, who captained the gold-medalwinning U.S. Olympic women’s basketball team in 1984, had the great distinction of becoming the first female player for the Harlem Globetrotters, remarking that she “got chills” when she heard the news. She beat out nine other finalists for the honor.

CUSTOMER SERVICE: (800) 708-7311 EXT.

257

CUSTOMER SERVICE: (800) 708-7311 EXT. 257 NOW HERE’S A TIP #12345_20240923 FOR RELEASE SEPT. 23, 2024

By JoAnn Derson

STRANGE BUT TRUE #12345_20240923

FOR RELEASE SEPT. 23, 2024

By Lucie Winborne

On Oct. 8, 2009, two people died of heat stroke and more than a dozen others had to be hospitalized for dehydration and other medical issues following a botched sweat lodge ceremony near Sedona, Arizona, at a five-day retreat run by motivational speaker and author James Arthur Ray. A third participant died nine days later.

On Oct. 9, 1942, Chicago bootlegger Roger “The Terrible” Touhy escaped from Stateville Prison in Illinois by scaling the guard tower. Framed for kidnapping by his bootlegging rivals, with the aid of corrupt Chicago officials, Touhy was serving a 99-year sentence for a crime he didn’t commit and was recaptured a couple of months later, but released in 1959, then murdered by unknown assailants after just three weeks of freedom.

On Oct. 10, 1845, the United States Naval Academy opened in Annapolis, Maryland, with 50 midshipmen students and seven professors. Its curriculum included mathematics and navigation, gunnery and steam, chemistry, English, natural philosophy, and French.

• With holidays on the way, money is getting tight in my household. This is a fun, creative way to save a bit of cash: Plan a no-spend weekend every month, where you don’t spend any money on your activities. Challenge your children to help you plan it or take turns finding activities.

• “To keep my sharp kitchen scissors in the kitchen, I tied a long piece of yarn to the handle and attached it to the handle of the drawer that I keep them in. Now, those scissors get used in the kitchen, or nowhere!” — J.J. in Florida

• Remove scuff marks from hardsurface floors (wood, linoleum, tile) with a clean tennis ball. If your floor has many scuffs, you can poke a hole in the tennis ball and insert it on the top of your broom handle. When you hit a scuff, flip your broom over and rub. Most come off right away!

• “Buy pretty dishtowels and tablecloths on clearance and clip them on curtain rods for a quick window treatment.” — T.C. in Texas

By Lucie Winborne

• Octopus wrestling was a popular sport in the 1960s. A diver would fight an octopus in shallow water and drag it to the surface.

• After an online vote in 2011, Toyota announced that the official plural of Prius is Prii.

• Each spacecraft sent to Mars is scrubbed and inspected before dispatch as part of a strict planetary protection protocol meant to prevent contamination from Earth.

• Ophiocordyceps unilateralis, a parasitic fungus, effectively turns ants into zombies. The fungus compels the ant to bite onto the underside of a lowhanging leaf, where it dies, and the fungus then sends a fruiting body out through the ant’s head to disseminate spores.

• Geckos can turn the stickiness of their feet on and off at will.

• And speaking of feet, during World War II, the United States began rationing shoes. Citizens were allowed three pairs.

On Oct. 11, 1975, law professors William Jefferson Clinton and Hillary Rodham married in their living room in Fayetteville, Arkansas. Only family and close friends were in attendance.

On Oct. 12, 2011, India successfully launched the Megha-Tropiques satellite into space to exclusively study monsoon patterns. The satellite was made with France’s help and would share its data with organizations in Europe and America.

On Oct. 11, 1975, law professors William Jefferson Clinton and Hillary Rodham married in their living room in Fayetteville, Arkansas. Only family and close friends were in attendance.

On Oct. 13, 1975, country singer Charlie Rich shocked viewers of the CMA Awards by setting the envelope announcing John Denver’s win for Entertainer of the Year on fire with a lighter. By his own admission, “The Silver Fox” was on a combination of prescription pain medication and gin and tonics. But whatever the reason for his act, he was blacklisted from the show for the rest of his career. © 2024 King Features Synd., Inc.

• This is a great, natural solution for tightening your facial pores, and it feels wonderful on tired skin, too. Start by brewing a cup of rosehip tea and pouring it into an ice-cube tray to freeze. When it’s all frozen, take out a cube. Wrap it inside of a washcloth, and wet just the spot where the cube is. Then rub it over your face.

• “My kids use rewards charts for chores and good behavior, etc. I used to get some little toys at the dollar store for rewards, but I ended up at the local thrift store one day and noticed that there was plenty of nice small toys that were actually cheaper than at the dollar store! Plus, these nice things are getting one more use, and that’s good for the environment, too!” — A.K. in Pennsylvania

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

• When Leonardo DiCaprio smashed his hand on the dinner table in “Django Unchained,” he accidentally crushed a small stemmed glass with his palm and really began to bleed. He ignored it, stayed in character, and continued with the scene. Quentin Tarantino was so impressed that he used this take in the final print, and when he called cut, the room erupted in a standing ovation.

• Though they are often used as vegetables in cooking, eggplants are botanically classified as berries.

• Charles Richard Drew was a Black physician who developed blood banks for military personnel during World War II. He quit working for the Red Cross after he learned that the military separated blood donations by race.

• The Dr. Seuss classic children’s tale “Green Eggs and Ham” was banned in China from 1965 to 1991 for its “portrayal of early Marxism.” ***

2024 King Features Synd., Inc.

Hart Community Performing Arts Series presents Seraph Brass

The Hart Community Performing Arts Series will present the first concert of its 25th season Friday, Oct. 4, when Seraph Brass returns to the Hart stage. The Hart Series presented its first concert in November of 1999 and, since that time, has offered over 160 concerts presenting outstanding regional, national and international artists in a variety of performance genres. Over that quarter century, the series has asked every visiting artist to work with or present to students from Hart Public Schools and the surrounding school districts. Each season, in partnership with Hart Public Schools, the series offers thousands of experiences with the fine performing arts to those students, at no cost to them or their families. Seraph Brass will continue that tradition by conducting a master class for young brass musicians from the Hart, Shelby and Pentwater band programs on the morning of Oct. 4. The Hart Community Performing Arts Series is a project of the Hart Community Performing Arts Association, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization overseen by a volunteer board of directors and Artistic Director Tom Kirk.

Celebrating its 10th anniversary season, Seraph Brass was founded by trumpet soloist Mary Elizabeth Bowden with a mission to showcase the excellence of female brass players and highlight musicians from marginalized groups, both in personnel and in programming. Winners of the American Prize in Chamber Music, the group has been praised for their “beautiful sounds” (American Record Guide), “fine playing” (Gramophone), and “staggeringly high caliber of performance” (Textura). Seraph primarily performs as a quintet, with a dynamic roster

drawing from America’s top brass musicians. Seraph Brass performs a diverse body of repertoire, ranging from original transcriptions to newly commissioned works and core classics. The group has commissioned pieces by Catherine McMichael and Rene Orth: both featured on the Silver Medal Global Music Award-winning debut album Asteria, along with Wolf for solo soprano and brass quintet by Joseph Hallman and most recently Showcase by Jeff Scott. The group regularly participates in commissioning consortiums, recently supporting works by Kevin Day, Mischa Zupko, Marcus Grant, Jennifer Jolley, Sara Jacovino, and Lillian Yee. Seraph’s concerto performances have included Rick DeJonge’s Prelude and Fantasy, James Stephenson’s Dodecafecta, Suite from Mass by Leonard Bernstein and Anthony DiLorenzo’s Chimera. Members of Seraph Brass are passionate about music education and hold teaching positions at the University of North Texas, Shenandoah Conservatory, and the University of Wisconsin-Madison. In each of their tours, the group works to provide educational outreach to local schools, and they also offer a variety of entrepreneurship and career development workshops, in addition to traditional brass pedagogy and technique classes.

The ensemble has toured around the world, including performances at the Tafalla Brass Week in Spain, Lieksa Brass Week in Finland, the Busan Maru International Music Festival in South Korea, the University of Toronto in Canada, the Forum Cultural Guanajuato in Mexico, the International Women’s Brass Conference, the International Trumpet Guild Conference, and a two-week tour across China. Recent touring highlights have included shows and residencies at the Lyric Chamber Music Society in NYC, Interlochen Arts Academy, Brevard Music Center, Chautauqua Institution, Chamber Music Raleigh, National Gallery of Art in D.C., Asheville Chamber Music Series, Virginia Arts Festival, Boise Chamber Music Series, University of North Carolina School for the Arts, Michigan State University, Sarasota’s Artist Series Concerts, Dame Myra Hess Concert Series in Chicago, and Del Valle Fine Arts Presents in California, as well as concerto appearances with the Florence Symphony, the United States Army Band “Pershing’s Own,” and Texas Tech University Wind Ensemble. The group has also toured extensively as Allied Con-

cert Services and Live On Stage artists, and was formerly in residency alongside the Dover Quartet at the Artosphere Festival in Fayetteville, Ark. Members of Seraph Brass have performed with such esteemed ensembles as the London Symphony Orchestra, Baltimore Symphony Orchestra, Artosphere Festival Orchestra, Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra, Boston Symphony Orchestra, Los Angeles Philharmonic, Philadelphia Orchestra, Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra, The Phoenix Symphony, Marlboro Music Festival, Lucerne Music Festival in Switzerland, Britt Festival Orchestra, Richmond Symphony, Chameleon Arts Ensemble, and the Daejeon Philharmonic. Many members of Seraph Brass performed with Adele on her North American tour. Seraph Brass is a Yamaha Performing Group.

The Oct. 4 concert will begin at 7:30 p.m. in the Hart Public Schools Auditorium, located in the Hart Middle School. Season tickets for the series, as well as individual concert tickets, are available on the series website, hartseries.org. For further information, contact Tom Kirk at tomkirk@hartseries.org.

Tails of Hope

This handsome boy is named Julius. The shelter staff, however, have given him a nickname. They call him “Nice Boy.” Julius rides well in a car and is good with children. He is 3 years old and is looking for someone to take him for walks and car rides.

Julius 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.

2024 Shelby High School Homecoming Court

Hesperia and Pentwater chosen as part of $267 million in EGLE’s MI Clean Water grants

The villages of Hesperia and Pentwater are among the sites of more than $267 million in state grants recently awarded to Michigan cities, villages, and townships to protect public health and Michigan’s world-class water resources.

Seventy percent of Michiganders are served by more than 1,000 community wastewater systems and a similar percentage get drinking water from community water systems. Those systems often struggle to find resources to address legacy issues like aging drinking water and storm water facilities and emerging challenges like per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) “forever chemicals.” The MI Clean Water Plan offers support to communities and water systems through the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF), Clean Water State Revolving Fund (CWSRF), and the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) to address those issues, ensuring healthy drinking water and protection of Michigan’s environment.

“As we invest in local water infrastructure projects, we’re not just upgrading pipes and pumps; we’re revitalizing communities, ensuring access to clean water, and reducing costs for residents,” said Phil Roos, EGLE director. “The MI Clean Water Plan provides unprecedented resources to help communities modernize their water systems. (This) $267 million investment supports dozens of communities from the rural reaches of the Upper Peninsula to urban centers downstate helping them remove lead service lines, upgrade water mains, and more. We’re proud to continue to make progress on rebuilding and modernizing Michigan’s water infrastructure.”

More than half of EGLE’s budget has traditionally passed through to Michigan cities, towns, villages, and other local government agencies to finance

critical improvements that help them better protect residents and our natural resources.

Grants through the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund:

• Village of Hesperia for $14,680,950. The project includes construction of a new water treatment plant, improvements to two well houses including the installation of a water main to connect them, demolition of Well House 3, and the abandonment and replacement of Well 3 at a new site. Also included is replacement of approximately 15,000 linear feet of water main, replacement of approximately 386 public and private side lead and galvanized water service lines, replacement of outdated water meters, and completing repairs and improvements to the elevated storage tank.

• Village of Pentwater for $1,853,000. This project includes the construction of a new municipal well house, including a new municipal well pump, piping, chemical feed system, and related components. This includes construction of approximately 650 linear feet of transmission main under Pentwater channel. Additionally, this project will include replacing

and adding approximately 10,350 linear feet of water main and replacing approximately 200 public and private lead and galvanized water service lines throughout the village.

For more information about the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund visit www.michigan.gov/egle/ regulatory-assistance/grants-and-financing/drinking-water-state-revolving-fund.

JOB POSTING

VILLAGE OF SHELBY DEPUTY CLERK/TREASURER

The Village of Shelby is seeking applicants for a Deputy Clerk/Treasurer. The selected applicant will perform administrative assistance and general office support services for the Village Clerk/ Treasurer, Village Administrator, and Police Chief. The applicant will research and respond to both routine and unique matters regarding a wide variety of Village matters and serves as the first point of contact for Village residents visiting the Village Hall.

The position offers 28 hours per week with a flexible schedule, as it aligns with open office hours from Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM.

The ideal candidate will be able to provide clerical support including sorting and distrusting mail, prepare letters and other correspondence, maintain office files, assist with preparing meeting packets, perform accounts receivable, acts as a receptionist, assist with accounts payable and payroll, manage website and social media, assists the Zoning Administrator in administering zoning and code enforcement, and in the Clerk/Treasurer’s absence, attends meetings, records and prepares official meeting minutes, and assures legal notices are published. The compensation range is $16.36 to $21.47 per hour depending on qualifications and experience. Applicants should submit a completed application and resume to:

Village Clerk Village of Shelby 218 N. Michigan Ave. Shelby, MI 49455

Or email: clerk@shelbyvillage.com

For questions, contact Village Hall at (231) 861-4400. Applications must be submitted by no later than October 4, 2024, at 4:30 PM.

THE VILLAGE OF SHELBY IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER.

The 2024 Shelby High School Homecoming Court, includes, back row, from left: freshman Parker Weirich, sophomore Cael Omness, seniors Devon Exton, Juan Brito, Trey Gauthier, Frank (AJ) Melchor and Steven Winterhalter and foreign exchange student Natalia Suchorski. Front row, from left, freshman Maria Hayes, sophomore Erin Cruz, junior Josephine Kirker, seniors Breanna Cook, Alyse Erickson, Audrey Horton, Navea Gauthier and Claire Kelley and foreign exchange students Aissana Aneskan and Adelija Drazdauskaite. Missing from the picture is junior Miguel Fraga. The school’s homecoming parade is Friday, Oct. 4 at 4:30 p.m. through downtown Shelby.

• Contributed Photo

Shelby Wesco celebrates every Friday in October

By Sharon Hallack

The Oceana Echo Community Correspondent

After being closed for several months for reconstruction earlier this year, Shelby Wesco is happy to be open again. In appreciation for the community’s patience and in celebration of the wonderful support since reopening, Wesco is inviting everyone to “Celebration Fridays” Oct. 4, 11, 18 and 25. The celebration will be two-fold; customers will not only be able to take advantage of some delicious perks but be able to support Shelby schools at the same time!

“Every Friday, we will have 200 purple-frosted donuts for sale, with all

proceeds going to Shelby High School. We will also be giving away 100 Shelby themed mugs every Friday. The mug giveaways will be at a different time each Friday (6 a.m. Oct. 4, 10 a.m. Oct. 11, 2 p.m. Oct. 18 and 6 p.m. Oct. 25), so we catch all of our various customer groups. And for every Shelby Varsity Football win, we’ll give away a free slice of pepperoni pizza, Saturday through Monday of the winning game, via our app-exclusive coupon. We will also be offering 20-ounce coffees for $1 on Fridays with our “Go Rewards” membership,” said Wesco Marketing Director Bryan Link.

These offers will only be available at the Shelby Wesco location. Any questions can be directed to Wesco at 231719-4300.

Hart High School Class of 1957

School Resource Officer Tim Simon provides school safety tips

As we start the new school year, one of the first things that comes to mind is getting our children to and from school safely. Many of our students here at Shelby Public Schools walk to school or wait at bus stops at various locations. One way we can help our chil dren be safe is to teach them to be aware of their surroundings. This is typically called Situational Awareness. When we are aware of our surroundings, we become more alert to what is happening around us. Here are some tips to discuss with your chil dren that may help them navigate to and from school safely this year.

Limit Distractions: Try not to be on your phone, whether it’s surfing the web or having earbuds in your ears. When you can’t hear what is happening around you or you are looking at a cellular phone, it is hard to react if something happens.

Walk With A Friend: If walking to school or waiting at the bus stop, it is much safer in a pair than being alone. Two sets of eyes and ears are better than one.

Choose a Safe Route: Choose a safe route to school that is populated and

well lit. Avoid walking in alleys and unfamiliar surroundings. Choose a route that has crosswalks if crossing the road. Report Suspicious Activity: If you see something suspicious, tell an adult, teacher, staff member, or the police. Don’t Take Rides From Strangers: Never approach a stranger’s car. If a stranger walks up asking for directions or something that doesn’t seem right, it probably isn’t. Stay away from the vehicle and find or call someone you know.

Be Aware of Traffic: Be aware of traffic at all times. Look for traffic at all intersections and driveways. When crossing the street, look left, right, left, and behind you. Always wait for no traffic before crossing.

When we are aware of our surroundings and alert to what is happening around us, we can react quicker if something does happen. We also may be able to avoid a potential problem before it happens if we are paying attention to our surroundings.

As we teach our children to become situationally aware, it will help them have a much more safe and enjoyable school year.

Attending the recent Hart High Class of 1957 luncheon were, front row, from left, Janice Coulier Merten, Betty Daily Towne, Mary Jane Fuller Morat, Janice Moore Volpp, Pat Marsh McDonald, Karen Spencer Longcore and Mary Koposky McCann; back row, from left, Gordon Merten, Dave Carlson, Walt Urick, Dick Herrygers and Bill Volpp.

• Contributed Photo

Pirates sail past Hesperia in three dominant sets

By: Brendan Samuels

The Oceana Echo Sports Editor

HESPERIA – A battle between two relatively young teams saw Hart volleyball dispatch Hesperia in three sets Tuesday, Oct. 1.

While the night ultimately leaned heavily in favor of the Pirates, the first set between Hart and Hesperia was a gritty battle that saw several long rallies. Hart’s early lead proved to be a difference-maker. Every time the Panthers battled back, Hart had a run in response that kept the Panthers at arm’s length.

Late in that first set, Hart owned a 23-15 lead, but watched it slowly dissolve to 23-19. The Pirates were able to capitalize on mistakes from the Panthers in the end, adding two additional points to take a 25-19 win and 1-0

set advantage.

“Watching them play hard like that is always so fun,” Hesperia Head Coach Alyx Beachum said. “We’re working on taking that energy and carrying it through each and every set, and not getting tired. They’re not used to having to press through for three or more sets.”

The second set was much less of a fight from Hesperia. After taking a 2-0 lead initially, the Panthers quickly fell behind, allowing Hart to jump in front at 8-6. The Pirates continued to pour points onto their lead, moving to 20-11.

Frustration started to show on Hesperia’s sideline as a ball on Hart’s side of the court seemed to touch the floor, but the officials allowed play to continue. The Panthers

continued on page 14

SPORTS

Garcia leads fierce comeback, Shelby stuns Hesperia on homecoming

By: Brendan Samuels

The Oceana Echo Sports Editor

HESPERIA – All season, Hesperia football Head Coach Tyler Fehler has remained adamant that his team was capable of becoming a problem in the West Michigan Conference (WMC) Rivers Division. While an 18-0 lead in the first half of the Panthers’ homecoming matchup with Shelby Friday, Sept. 27 echoed Fehler’s sentiment, a final score of 3025 in favor of the Tigers showed room for growth for Hesperia.

“I give Hesperia a lot of credit for coming out and punching us in the mouth the way they did. Our guys respond positively when things go wrong,” Shelby Head Coach Phil Fortier said. “Tonight, we just hung in there and kept on playing, kept on grinding. I’m just so proud of these guys. They showed so

much perseverance. It’s hard when you’ve been where we’ve been to still find ways to come back. Hats off to these players. They were not going to be denied tonight.”

Life simply couldn’t have been better for the Panthers in the early going against Shelby. After both teams came up empty on opening drives, Hesperia’s senior quarterback Blake Sayer connected with Eli Edens over the middle, allowing him to scamper into the endzone and break a scoreless stalemate.

In the second quarter, the Panthers continued to snuff out any flame Shelby’s offense could conjure. Shelby sophomore Jaylin Henderson – earning his first varsity start at quarterback with senior Isaac Garcia working through a sprained ankle – tried his best to spark the offense, but struggled to find the consistency needed to break through Hesperia’s defense.

“I told (Jaylin), ‘it’s your game and you can control it. Don’t let anyone distract you and go straight to that neutral thinking,” Garcia said.

While Shelby attempted to solve their sluggish start on offense, Hesperia took control. The Panthers pushed their lead to 12-0 in the second quarter, this time on a five-yard carry for senior running back Skyler Stalbaum. The only complaints for Fehler’s squad had been special team blunders. Freshman kicker Lacey Mey – who hadn’t missed an extra point through five games – missed on her first attempt, and junior Noah Walker was thwarted on a two-point conversion following Stalbaum’s touchdown, taking a total of three points off the board between those two plays.

“Lacey is a freshman and it’s homecoming,” Fehler said. “The kids are off at the parade until 5:30 when we’re usually on the field by five. It was

just that kind of a day. They’re just kids.”

Missed chances at extra points are one thing, but Hesperia’s biggest blunder on special teams came midway through the second quarter. Panther senior Ian Fox attempted to field a Shelby punt, but instead watched it bounce off his body and onto the ground. AJ Melchor was able to dive on top of the muffed punt, giving Shelby possession near midfield.

In need of points, Fortier made the decision to move Henderson back to his receiver position and put Garcia in at quarterback. Though Garcia’s ankle didn’t appear to hamper him, he did struggle to get into the flow of the game initially.

On Garcia’s first drive of the night, he handed the ball back to the Panthers, throwing an interception to Sayer just second after Shelby

Comeback Kids continued on page 13

Late goal lifts Shelby to upset win over rival Hart

By: Brendan Samuels

The Oceana Echo Sports Editor

SHELBY – Since Joe Gilbert took over the Hart boys soccer program in 2020, the Pirates have yet to beat their rival Shelby. Frustration was both visible and audible from the Pirates’ sideline, Monday, Sept. 30, as yet again, Shelby found a way to best Hart, this time by a 2-1 score.

“I think it’s just the rivalry,” Shelby Head Coach Damian Gonzalez said. “We played our best game by far tonight. Hart is a good team and I have a lot of respect for their play in the midfield and their attacking component. We showed what we’re capable of, now we just have to bring that same level every single game.”

Over the last five years, Hart has

owned a combined 31-47-15 overall record heading into conference meetings with Shelby, while the Tigers stood at 33-33-14. In 2021, the teams faced off twice in the same year with Shelby winning both.

Entering Monday’s game, Hart owned an 8-7 overall record while Shelby sat at 3-11-2, having won just two games since late August. The expectation was that the Pirates would find a way to do what they hadn’t done over the last five seasons and claim victory.

Shelby had a game plan heading in and, for the first few minutes, executed it to perfection. Showing speed and aggression from the early going, the Tigers pressured Hart in the midfield, forcing errant passes and intercepting balls that kept possession firmly in Hart’s defensive territory.

That plan was flipped on its head with 31:10 remaining in the first half when Hart found a transition breakaway down the right sideline. The Pirates first real opportunity in front of Shelby’s net turned into points as junior Adrian Belmares sent a goal past Shelby freshman keeper Josh Vega to put Hart in front, 1-0.

“(Hart) is fast and aggressive. Fortunately, I know them pretty well,” Gonzalez said. “We had a gameplan going in and I thought we executed it really well. Transition was what I was scared about, and that’s where they got their one and only goal. Their speed on the wings forced us to adjust and I thought we did that well.”

Gonzalez had seen the talent of Hart’s roster first-hand. Before taking the head coaching gig at Shelby, he was an assistant coach under Gilbert,

specializing in training keepers. A bit of insider information doesn’t hurt when playing a rival and that showed

Rivalry Win continued on page 14

HART

WALKERVILLE

Shelby’s varsity football team poses after a 30-25 win come from behind victory over Hesperia. • Brendan Samuels/ECHO

Hart libero Alayna Schiller prepares to bump the ball to set up teammate Reese Smith on the outside. • Brendan Samuels/ECHO

Shelby boys soccer Head Coach Damian Gonzalez celebrates after defeating Hart, 2-1. • Brendan Samuels/ECHO

Comeback Kids

recovered Fox’s mishandled punt return.

Hesperia made Shelby pay for that mistake, driving down the field in just over two minutes. That drive ended with a two-yard touchdown run for Panther senior Thor Klaus, adding six more to Hesperia’s lead. Mistakes on special teams burned Hesperia again after that touchdown, as Mey missed her second extra point attempt of the night, leaving the lead at 18-0.

Shelby’s offense came alive with three minutes remaining before halftime. The Tigers pushed the ball down the field on the back of Melchor and Garcia, ending the drive with a 12-yard touchdown run for the former. A failed two-point conversion for Shelby left them trailing by 12 points, as the score sat at 18-6.

“We wanted to go in and make sure that we didn’t pull the trigger too soon on (Isaac Garcia). He’s been walking around in an air cast for three days and he got to practice a little bit for two of those days. We were trying to be careful with him,” Fortier said.

“Once we went down (18-0) we needed his leadership in there. No disrespect to Jaylin (Henderson), he’s a sophomore and still young. We just needed a spark and that’s what Isaac gave us.”

A trick play from Hesperia nearly put even more points on the board in the waning seconds of the first half. Fox hauled in a pass from Sayer on the left sideline, but before Shelby could bring him down, he tossed the ball to Stalbaum, who fought his way close to the goal line. The Tigers dragged him down just short, keeping the score 18-6 heading into the locker room.

“We played well in the first half. We knew what (Shelby) was going to do and we had the plan for it,” Fehler said. “We were up 18-0 and were stopping (Shelby) every time on defense and scoring the way we wanted to.”

Hesperia’s homecoming court and marching band took the field to celebrate and crown their king and queen. Meanwhile, Fortier and his team kept it simple with their halftime adjustments.

“Neutral thinking. This has been our thing this year,” Fortier said. “I had an expert come in and teach us about neutral thinking. Basically, we can’t do anything about the past or the future. We just deal with the facts and we say, ‘what is the next step?’ These guys have really bought into that and put it to work.”

Throwing out what happened in the first half seemed to work for Shelby. The Tigers entered the third quarter looking like a completely different team. Garcia led Shelby down the field, calling his own number on a one-yard touchdown run. Melchor

punched in the two-point attempt, bringing Shelby within a single possession of claiming the lead.

Not to be outdone, Hesperia’s offense answered back quickly. Just a minute after Shelby scored, Stalbaum hammered in his second touchdown of the night, this time on a five-yard run. Having two kickers benefitted Fehler as he replaced Mey on extra point duty with foreign exchange student Roger Be La Sierra. Be La Sierra knocked through the point after and Hesperia pushed their lead back out at 25-14.

Defense seemed to go out the window almost completely in the third quarter. Again, Shelby wasted no time getting back into the endzone. 90 seconds had ticked off the clock before Garcia tossed a 46-yard touchdown to Henderson on the receiving end. Another successful two-point attempt by Melchor had the Tigers even closer, trailing 2522.

With the defense struggling for both teams, it was Shelby that came up with a big play to shift momentum completely in their favor. Senior Griffin Olmstead made a shoestring interception with just 26 seconds remaining before the fourth quarter, giving his team a chance to claim their first lead of the day with the ball on its own 34-yard line.

Garcia capitalized on the Olmstead interception with 10 minutes remaining in the game. On a wild scramble to his right, Garcia dialed up a cross-body throw that arched from the right sideline to the middle of the field.

Waiting for the ball to come down was DayDay Garcia – cousin to Isaac. DayDay burned the coverage from Hesperia safety Zach Loughridge – who was playing in place of Edens, who exited with a shoulder injury – and hauled in the 28-yard throw from Isaac to put Shelby on top. Isaac added a twopoint conversion run, diving over the goal line to put Shelby on top 30-25.

“We had just run the same play and threw a short-

er route and upstairs (our coaches) are telling us that the back side post was open. I told (offensive coordinator Forrest Courtright) that and he knew – he’d already called the play,” Fortier said. “(Hesperia) overplayed the right side of the field and DayDay is a great player – he has so much speed that it’s hard to stick with him.”

“Our starting safety, Eli Edens, went down with a shoulder injury,” Fehler said. “He was playing fantastic for us in the first half and probably had close to 10 tackles and he had the first touchdown of the game for like 40 yards. He’s our safety and we play a two-high scheme, so when he went out we had to go to one-high. That changed everything and people were getting flipped and we were getting calls against us. We just didn’t know how to respond.”

Plenty of time remained for Hesperia to get back in front, but Shelby’s defense proved stout in the final quarter. The Tigers forced the Panthers into a turnover on downs with just under seven minutes remaining, but were unable to move the ball themselves on offense.

Two minutes remained in the game when Shelby’s offense faced a fourth down decision of their own. At Hesperia’s 42-yard line with 12 yards to go for a first down, Fortier made a risky call to go for it instead of punting, only to watch Hesperia force the second turnover on downs for the Tigers in the fourth quarter.

Fortier’s decision to not punt likely stemmed from his confidence in the defense to stop Hesperia. That confidence wasn’t misplaced either as Shelby – with a little help from some inopportune penalties on Hesperia’s offensive line and a dropped pass from Loughridge on fourth down – forced the Panthers into a turnover on downs with 59 seconds left.

“I think part of the problem is, it’s my third year here and (Hesperia) wasn’t very good before I got here. A lot of these kids, the last winning

season they had was 2017,” Fehler said. “At this point of our program, we’re just not winners – we don’t know how to seal the deal. We’re good enough to do it. Being in these games and coming out on the right side of it is more than x’s and o’s.”

The win for Shelby over Hesperia is the latest in a line of hotly contested battles in recent years, shaping a bit of a rivalry between the two schools.

“These communities are 20 minutes apart and it’s almost like we’re developing this rivalry within the county,” Fortier said. “What Tyler (Fehler) is doing here is really really good. He’s giving me fits trying to defend some of those routes.”

“My first year here we lost (to Shelby) in overtime and last year was a close game, but we just weren’t as explosive on offense,” Fehler said.

“We still haven’t beat Shelby, we’re 0-3 (in my time here). The worst part was, I believed in my heart that we were the better team. It’s like when you’re playing your dad in basketball in the driveway. He’s 50 and you’re 30 and he’s been beating you your whole life, you just don’t think you can beat him – even though you’re probably better. Then, your dad wins because he knows he should win the game.”

Isaac Garcia broke the huddle in victory formation and with two snaps, took a knee to run the clock out and give Shelby a come-from-behind victory.

As for Isaac Garcia’s ankle, it appears a win was just what the doctor ordered.

“I’m not feeling any injuries right now. All I feel is this win,” Garcia said.

Melchor proved to be the bell cow for Shelby, toting the ball 19 times for 151 yards and a touchdown. Issac Garcia added 30 rushing yards and a touchdown on seven carries of his own, going 5-for-8

passing for another 90 yards and two touchdowns. DayDay Garcia had just one catch for 28 yards and a touchdown while Henderson had one for 46 yards and a touchdown.

On defense for Shelby, Max Hagstrom led with 10 total tackles. Melchor added eight tackles and a fumble recovery while Henderson had six tackles.

Hesperia’s offense posted crazy numbers with Stalbaum leading the way with 109 yards on the ground and two touchdowns. Sayer went 14for-18 through the air for 218 yards and a touchdown, adding 45 yards on the ground. A trio of receivers impressed for the Panthers as Fox hauled in four catches for 73 yards, Klaus had four catches for 54 yards and Edens pulled down four catches for 74 yards and a touchdown.

Stalbaum also led the way on defense, making nine tackles while Sayer matched him with nine of his own to go along with an interception. Edens had eight tackles while Klaus and Walker added four tackles each.

Hesperia has now fallen in three straight games and owns a 2-3 overall record with a 1-2 standing in the WMC Rivers. The Panthers will look to rebound on the road against a tough Ravenna (3-2, 2-1 WMC Rivers) team, Friday, Oct. 4 at 7 p.m.

Shelby, on the other hand, posted its second win of the year as the Tigers sit at 2-3 overall with a 1-3 record in the WMC Rivers. Shelby’s varsity team will get a week off as their previously scheduled homecoming game with Holton, Friday, Oct. 4, was canceled with the Red Devils no longer fielding a varsity team.

Instead, Shelby’s JV team will take the field under the Friday night lights for a homecoming matchup with Holton’s JV. That game will kick off Friday, Oct. 4 at 7 p.m.

(Above, left) Shelby junior quarterback dives across the goal line on a two point conversion while Hesperia senior Skyler Stalbaum grabs at his ankles. (Above, right) Hesperia’s Garrett Bolles prepares to block a pass rush from Shelby’s Brody Fessenden. • Brendan Samuels/ECHO

Rivalry Win Hart Volleyball

as Shelby recovered from an early deficit.

“It’s so tough because I love the players over there (on Hart’s team). I want them to do great things this year because I was coaching them from November to May,” Gonzalez said. “I’ve been a part of that process so I know everything they’ve been through. I tried not to think about it all day at work, but as soon as I got out of work, the realization hit that we were really about to square off.”

Though both teams found ways to push the ball into scoring position at different times in the first half, neither were able to capitalize. The second half saw a mad scramble up and down the field as each team jockeyed for position and the opportunity to put points on the board.

Shelby was finally able to find the back of the net with 29:01 remaining in the game on a shot by senior Venancio Cadena Arvizu. With a 1-1 tie, the Tigers turned up the intensity and started giving Hart a lot of trouble.

For Hart, it was senior defenseman Carter Ramseyer that allowed the Pirates to thwart most of Shelby’s attempts to break through. Ramseyer was responsible for numerous stops on defense, clearing balls left and right and putting Shelby’s strikers back on their heels.

“(Carter) is a work-horse and an absolute animal. We say that his dad probably built him in a lab in their basement,” Gilbert said. “We pin our entire defense on him because we’re not as fast on the outside. He can’t do it all though.”

Ramseyer couldn’t stop Shelby every time, but on opposing runs in the second half where he wasn’t in position to make a play, junior keeper Miguel Escamilla made up for it.

Escamilla did as much as humanly possible, recording seven saves, cutting off 11 through balls and claiming four crosses. One particular play stood out though. In a 1-on-1 situation with Shelby junior Alex Dealmonte, Escamilla came out and stood his ground. Dealmonte fired a shot to the right post and watched it sail towards the net, only for Escamilla to deflect it off the

fingertips with his arm outstretched.

“(That save) was insane. Miguel should be an All-District keeper. We’re looking for him to be in that top three and be in the mix,” Gilbert said. “It’s going to be a talking point (at the end of the year) that he let in a lot of goals, but you have to look at our defense in front of him. We’re not the most athletic team by any means. (Escamilla’s) effort and athletic ability are tremendous. It’s crazy what he’s able to do.”

It took a while, but the 1-1 stalemate was finally broken with just over two minutes remaining in the game.

Shelby junior Andrew Hayes dribbled through Hart’s defense and placed a pass perfectly to Dealmonte. This time, Dealmonte finished in front of Escamilla, putting Shelby on top for good.

“This is the first time we’ve come back from a deficit all season,” Gonzalez said. “Having that happen this late in the year, I’m incredibly impressed and proud of our resilience. This’ll be a good learning point going into districts, knowing that if we go down we’re capable of battling back.”

With the win, Shelby moved to 4-112 overall with a 2-7-1 record in the West Michigan Conference (WMC). Hart fell to 8-8 overall and 3-6 in the WMC.

This won’t be the last time the two teams meet in 2024 either. The Pirates are scheduled to host Shelby to start the district tournament Thursday, Oct. 10, this time with much more on the line.

“It’s hard to beat a team twice and that’s what I have to get into their heads,” Gilbert said. “They might have beat us this time, but we’ve got an even more important game coming up and it’s win or go home. Mentality-wise, it’s probably better that we lost this one because now we have a chip on our shoulder.”

“Playing Whitehall and Ludington to finish the year will be good for us,” Gonzalez said. “They’re known for bringing intensity, so if we can match that, it’ll be huge. Both of those games will be good tests heading into districts. Today was close, but districts will be even more interesting.”

Friday, Sept. 27:

Pentwater 3, Cadillac HC 0

Saturday, Sept. 28:

Shelby 2, Oscoda 0

Shelby 1, Grass Lake 1

Shelby 2, Dansville 0

Shelby 1, Calumet 2

Tuesday, Oct. 1:

Hart 3, Hesperia 0

Shelby 3, Holton 0

Wednesday, Oct. 2:

Hart 0, Fremont 2

Hart 0, Fruitport 2

Walkerville 0, Mesick 3

were forced into two timeouts during that second set, trying their best to gain any sort of footing. In the end, the second set landed in favor of the Pirates, 25-14.

“We’re a young team with only two seniors,” Beachum said. “With that young team, we just want to improve so that we can come out next year even stronger than we are now. We’ve just got to focus on the little things, working in practice and putting that into games.”

The third and final set served as a formality as Hart jumped out to a 10-4 lead and never looked back, ending the night with a 25-11 win in that set and a 3-0 win overall.

“I’m not disappointed in how we played,” Beachum said. “We’re making small gains in every game that we’re playing. Even when we lose, parents are saying ‘whoa, you’re really taking these girls

far,’ and we’re just looking to improve.”

Hart’s win was even more impressive, considering the changes they were forced to make with senior middle hitter Brynn Russell sidelined with illness. The Pirates turned to exchange student Sarah Kranz in that spot.

A number of Pirates showed poise at the service line, with four going over 90 percent and two having a perfect night. Alayna Schiller had seven aces, two assists, one kill and 10 digs. Kelsey Copenhaver recorded seven digs, six kills, five aces and four assists while Reese Smith had 13 digs, six kills and one ace.

Hart improved to 16-6-1 overall with the win and is now 2-2 in the West Michigan Conference Rivers Division.

Hart gets behind early, falls to North Muskegon

By: Brendan Samuels

The Oceana Echo Sports Editor

For the first time since 2021, Hart’s football program dropped their second consecutive outing, falling 42-6 to the well-oiled machine that is North Muskegon.

The Norsemen got on top quickly, scoring three times in the first quarter to gain a 21-0 advantage over Hart. On North Muskegon’s first two touchdowns, it was their big play ability that hurt the Pirates. Each of those scores came from over 50 yards out.

Hart was able to get on the board at the start of the second quarter when Eman Hertzler got in on a four-yard run.

Thursday, Sept. 19:

Friday, Sept. 20:

Hart 6, N. Muskegon 42

The ensuing two-point conversion attempt failed, leaving Hart behind, 21-6.

North Muskegon answered in the same quarter, completing a 24-yard pass to find the end zone for the fourth time in the first half. The Norsemen held Hart off the board for the entirety of the second half, adding two more touchdowns of their own and starting a running clock with seven minutes remaining in the fourth quarter.

Kyle Greiner led the way for Hart on the ground, taking 11 carries for 42 yards while Keaghan Monroe added 40 yards on eight carries. Halen Boos went 2-for-7 through the air for 66 yards and freshman Kolton Rockwell was

Friday, Sept. 27:

Monday, Sept. 30:

Tuesday, Oct. 1

Wednesday, Oct. 2:

1-for-3 for 48 yards. Hertzler, Brody Clark and Kaden Bond each had just one reception. Hertzler led the way in yardage with 56, while Clark had 48 and Bond had 27. On defense, Boos recorded 10 total tackles and one for a loss to lead the Pirates. Bond added two tackles of his own and a fumble recovery and Clark was good for three pass breakups. The Pirates fell to 2-3 overall with the loss and are now 1-2 in the West Michigan Conference (WMC) Rivers Division. Hart has another big matchup on the docket this week as they travel north to Scottville to take on Mason County Central (4-1, 2-1 WMC Rivers), Friday, Oct. 4 at 7 p.m.

Saturday, Sept. 28:

Hart Girls - 4th, Boys - 4th

Tuesday, Oct. 1:

Wednesday, Oct. 2:

(Above, left) Shelby junior Eli Kelley prepares to launch an in-bounds pass. (Above, right) Hart junior Adrian Belmares cuts through the midfield with his eyes on a teammate near the right sideline. • Brendan Samuels/ECHO

Shelby 30, Hesperia 25

Hart (JV) 0, N. Muskegon 52

Shelby (JV) 30, Hesperia 12

Hart 2, Tri County 0

Shelby 9, BRCC 1

Pentwater 8, Cadillac HC 4

BLUEJAY INVITE

Shelby Girls - 11th, Boys - 16th

FRUITPORT INVITE

Hesperia Boys - 7th

WMC Jamboree

Hart Girls - 1st, Boys - 1st

Hesperia Boys - 2nd

Shelby Girls - 2nd, Boys - 3rd

Shelby 2, Hart 1

Shelby 0, Whitehall 5

WMD JAMBOREE Pentwater Boys - 3rd

Hart 2, Orchard View 0

Shelby 0, Ludington 1

Thursday, Sept. 26: Pentwater 1, Saugatuck 7

(Above, left) Hesperia junior libero, Olivia Gerard, prepares to launch a serve over the net while Hart senior Kelsey Copenhaver (above, right) does the same for the Pirates. • Brendan Samuels/ECHO

Reflections of our community

White Lake Mirror

White Lake Mirror White Lake Mirror

White Lake Mirror White Lake

YOUR LOCALLY OWNED AND OPERATED NONPROFIT NEWS SOURCE

North Grove back in business after fire

Kitchen not yet open, but bar back in operation; indoor facility had been closed since April fire

By Madison Lajewski White Lake Mirror Writer

MONTAGUE — North Grove Brewery has finally reopened its inside bar after suffering a devastating fire in April. An official grand re-opening is planned within the next few weeks, but the indoor bar has officially reopened.

“We’re trying to get the kitchen open as soon as possible,” owner Jason Jaekel said. “I’m hoping by next week. It still hasn’t hit me yet. I keep thinking, ‘Oh, we have to get this done.’ I guess once we get everything back the way we, the owners, all want it then I think I’ll be able to breathe. Right now we’re just bar service and everyday something new comes up. ‘We need to get this or that, that got lost in the fire.’ It’s one of

those things where we’re just trying to piece everything back together. We’re almost there.”

While cleaning the inside, Jaekel and owners took it as an opportunity to redecorate the bar. The walls, previously black, are now white, making the space brighter. Most of the brewery’s beloved pinball machines were saved and cleaned, and are back in the bar.

During the time they were closed, North Grove was able to serve beer outside in their own beer garden. The garden featured a tent, and lawn with cornhole and other games. Jaekel said the beer garden was North Grove’s “saving grace.”

“When we had our fire, we were able to have the remediation company come

in and clean everything, especially focusing on the ‘brew house,’” said Jaekel.

“Once we did that, we ordered all new lines, gaskets, basically new everything. Anything that could possibly have soot,

we had to replace. We were able to have a partial occupancy with our beer gar-

ACWL-Nuveen gathering feedback for mural

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

The Arts Council of White Lake-Nuveen Center has begun the process of gathering community feedback for a mural that will be painted on the walls of the new pocket park in downtown Whitehall next summer.

The ACWL-Nuveen hosted two community engagement sessions in September to ask local residents what they’d want to see represented on a mural depicting the White Lake area. One was at the Montague/Whitehall

football game Sept. 20, and another was at the White Lake Community Library Sept. 27. A public feedback form was also available at Whitehall City Hall Sept. 27.

There is also an online questionnaire residents can fill out to give their input, said ACWL-Nuveen director Erin Peyer. The questionnaire is available at https://form.jotform. com/242615690497062.

Pocket park mural continued on page 2

Hauling away

a caboose,

Hauling away a caboose, but keeping the memories

but keeping the memories

Jerry Tyler sells caboose that was parked in his Duck Lake Road backyard for 42 years

By Jerry Mattson White Lake Mirror Contributor

Jerry Tyler had a full-size caboose parked in his backyard on Duck Lake Road for 42 years. It had been for sale for a few years, but moving it presented challenges. It was parked on a low part of his property, about six feet below level ground. Also, the caboose, built in 1890, was just placed on the unattached ‘trucks’ (a railroad term for the 4-wheel assemblies at each end of a rail car).

However, he eventually did sell it and it had to be moved this summer. At age 90, the time had come for him to say goodbye to the car.

Tyler grew up in Muskegon near the railyard. He could see the trains from the family home, which included a bakery. As a youngster, he sometimes took a paper bag of donuts to the rail crews which might lead to the tour of an engine or a short train ride.

“As a kid, the railyard was my playground,” he said.

He has been involved with railroading most of his life and worked for the Grand Trunk Western Railroad for 10 years, starting in 1955 when he was 20. In June 1964 he was promoted to Locomotive Engineer. The locomotives were steam-powered but were being replaced by diesels which needed fewer crew members, so at age 29 he was laid off.

He has some exciting, if not fond, memories of being on the rails. As a teenager, he and a couple of buddies decided to hop a train for a short, twomile ride into Muskegon but ended up in Grand Rapids. They hitchhiked home the next day. Another time, not yet an engineer, he drove three engines away from a burning building, successfully driving across a main street to save the equipment.

•

• Jerry Mattson/Mirror

Jerry Mattson/Mirror

His caboose was moved from the Brown & Morris Industrial Furniture yard in 1975, where it had been for 15 years. The 21-ton car, with the inside stripped clean, was moved with a semi and a lowboy trailer. Needing resto-

ration, it was positioned on a short set of rails with a bumper block made in the 1800s.

It took him five years to finish the exterior and even longer to get the essential interior appointments. Over the years, he helped restore

six other cabooses. Some of these had extra pieces he needed for his own. The railroad company had a list of required items for a caboose. These

The North Grove bar has reopened after being closed since April due to a kitchen fire. The brewery is hoping to open the kitchen back up within a few weeks.

• Madison Lajewski/Mirror

The Arts Council of White Lake-Nuveen Center is soliciting community feedback for what will be depicted on a mural that will go in the downtown pocket park adjacent to CatchMark Technologies. • Courtesy Image

White Lake resident Jerry Tyler recently sold the full-size caboose that had been parked in his yard on Duck Lake Road for 42 years. The caboose was moved to its new home this summer with the help of some Dura-Base mats (foreground).

The North Grove bar has reopened after being closed since April due to a kitchen fire. The brewery is hoping to open the kitchen back up within a few weeks.

• Madison Lajewski/Mirror

North Grove

den. The city and health department granted that, and that allowed us to be able to brew beer while we were serving outside. Luckily, a couple years ago, we put that separate brewing space in. We didn’t fully utilize it, but it saved us through this whole ordeal. We had six beers on tap outside and we made it work. It wasn’t the prettiest thing, always very weather-dependent.

“I have to compliment our staff. They rocked it out. They did the best that they could with that situation, while our new head brewer, Dylan, went to town making great beer. It looked disjointed, but we made it work. That’s what we had to do to stay alive.”

Jaekel said the brewery plans to bring back all of its favorite beers and recipes, but they will not have whiskey until at least mid-winter. North Grove distills and brews everything themselves, and the process of fermenting and aging whiskey takes at least three or four months.

“I’m hoping to bring back all the staples, but we are going to focus on having three or four beers that are always going to be on tap,” Jaekel said. “That’s a little different than what we’ve done in the past. In the past, we constantly rotated different beers. We found that there are certain beers the community always wants. We’re bringing back all of our food recipes. Hopefully soon we’ll have cans. We’ll bring back whiskey eventually. We had to focus on vodka and beer.”

Jaekel feels especially grateful for his

Caboose

included a stretcher, mounted near the ceiling, three cots for the conductor, and two brakemen and warning flares and flags to be used up-rail if the train was stopped. Tyler was able to get most of these items. Nearly all of them included the company initials to discourage theft. A hand saw, hatchet and hammer were kept behind a glass panel for the same reason. There had to be a good reason for anyone to break the glass.

In all his years working on the rails, he only made one trip in a caboose. Why a caboose in his back yard when he never worked in one?

“It would be too much work to get an engine down here,” he said as he smiled.

Now, Erickson’s, specializing in transporting large, heavy items, was making the move.

To provide a surface for the rail wheels to run on and prevent other equipment from destroying the lawn, two layers of 4 feet by 8 feet, high-density plastic Dura-Base mats were used to made a ‘road’ for moving the caboose.

The two trucks were chained to the frame under the caboose and an all-terrain Manitou forklift was chained to the coupler on the caboose. It took the crew an hour and a half to move it to level ground. Power lines near the house had to be raised and the move continued. By the end of the day, the old caboose was close to Duck Lake Road.

Two Manitou fork lifts, each capable of lifting 48,000 pounds, were used to lift the caboose onto a trailer. The destination was in Dalton Township about eight miles away. The mov-

continued from page 1

staff and the support of the White Lake community. Not long after the fire, Sawyers Brewing and Fetch Brewing Company both made efforts to help North Grove. Fetch played host to the Oat Bran Boys, who usually perform at North Grove every Wednesday evening. Sawyers encouraged community members to buy food from Dog n Suds, Jaekel’s other business, by offering discounted or even free drinks if they did so.

“I have to thank the staff and the community who came out and supported us,” said Jaekel. “It’s been phenomenal. We’ve had this awesome group of volunteers that have helped us. I can’t say enough how much it means to me and to the rest of us owners. We could not have functioned without them. Our staff put up with a lot, like having to haul ice from Montague Foods or Dog n Suds. There weren’t always pleasant days, but on rainy days people still came out and drank beer just to keep giving revenue to us so we could keep going. We had to do most of the upkeep on this. After the remediation left, we were on our own.”

One positive Jaekel has taken away from this experience is the growing closeness between him and his staff.

“We’re a family,” Jaekel said. “We’ve had some ups and downs throughout the whole process, but in my opinion it’s like the COVID-19 pandemic all over again. We get through another tragedy, we can do anything. We survived that, what else could you throw at us?”

Pocket park mural

continued from page 1

Peyer emphasized that although the subject of the survey is a mural, one does not have to be an artist for their feedback to be welcomed. Among survey questions are what colors are evoked by thinking of the White Lake area, notable local people who may deserve depiction on the mural, and what qualities make the area special, among other questions.

Peyer said she’s received some interesting feedback already from the 50 or so surveys that have been completed. One respondent said the mural could be interactive through a QR code that could bring a virtual-reality type of experience to people’s phones. Another suggested climbing grips be part of the wall.

Some suggestions are more likely to be incorporated than others, but Peyer said she hopes to get as much data as possible so the artist who is commissioned to make the mural will have the most complete feedback to work with.

“We’re hoping that will all translate to the mural,” Peyer said. The artist has not yet been chosen, a process that will continue for months. Peyer said the ACWL-Nuveen has posted a public RFQ (request for qualifications) at artswhitelake.org/ call-for-artists which notes it is seeking “an experienced community-based Michigan artist.” A committee consisting of ACWL-Nuveen staff, CatchMark Technologies staff, and a representative from City Hall will choose a small group of finalists from those who respond to the request. The plan is for each finalist to submit a design draft in January, and by the end of that month, the committee will choose the artist to design the mural. A requirement of the commission will be to participate in community engagement sessions to solicit further feedback for what will go on the mural, and the work should be completed sometime in summer 2025.

County-wide

Depot to Depot tour now open

From Oct. 1-31, embark on a self-guided color tour that takes visitors from the Muskegon South Pierhead Light to the White River Light Station. This scenic journey winds along Lake Michigan and the historic West Michigan Pike Byway, offering breathtaking views of Muskegon County’s autumn landscapes.

cal goodies. Visit one or both historic depots to enter.

While there, grab a scenic trail map and a list of special offers.

The Muskegon Union Depot is located at the Muskegon County Convention & Visitors Bureau (Hours: M, Tu, Th, F – 9

a.m. to 3 p.m.), and the White Lake Train Depot is located at the White Lake Area Chamber and Visitors Bureau (Hours: M-F – 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.. Pick up a scenic trail map and list of offers at either depot. These resources will soon be downloadable.

ing process was slow, as an Erickson’s crewmember walked in front of the truck and trailer.

The next day, the rail section and bumper block were pulled from Tyler’s backyard as one unit by a Manitou, was loaded on a lowboy trailer and moved to the new location.

With this project now behind him, Tyler can spend more ‘railroad time’ with his Lionel and Marx model train layouts. Included in his cars are two 0-Gage, 1:48 scale cabooses he handbuilt from scratch. One is identical to his real caboose, while the other one has a different style roof cupola.

The big Grand Trunk Western caboose is gone, but will remain in Tyler’s memory while the little ones will remain in his basement.

Highlights of the Depot to Depot Tour include:

Unforgettable Fall Colors: Witness a dazzling display of red, orange, and yellow leaves.

Scenic Drive: Travel the West Michigan Pike Byway, a historic route offering stunning vistas.

Self-Guided Exploration: Enjoy the freedom to explore, stopping and shopping at points of interest along the way.

Local Delights: Discover charming shops, delectable restaurants, and unique attractions.

Special Offers: Participating businesses offer exclusive Depot to Depot Deals throughout October. (Show a paper or digital map to participating businesses for special offers.)

There will also be giveaways at stops along the Depot to Depot Tour.

White Lake Depot: Get a free pumpkin while supplies last at the White Lake Area Chamber and Visitor Center.

Muskegon Union Depot: Pick up a free treat and a scenic postcard at the Muskegon County Visitor Center.

Enter to Win: Don’t miss a chance to win a gift basket filled with lo-

A makeshift road of Dura-Base mats helped pull the caboose from its longtime home.

• Jerry Mattson/Mirror

Studio 2 celebrates grand opening in Montague

By Madison Lajewski White Lake Mirror Writer

MONTAGUE — Studio 2 had a ribbon cutting Friday to celebrate the opening of their new location in Montague at 4588 Dowling St. Located between Lipka’s Old Fashion Soda Fountain and Wicker Chicken downtown, the space displays paintings by local artists.

The art gallery was filled with White

Lake community members and business owners to congratulate owner and artist Korrine Rogers.

Most art in the gallery is available for purchase. Studio 2 is also known as a local teaching center for artists, hosting various classes and seminars.

Rogers said at the ribbon cutting that she is grateful for the turnout and support of the community, and cannot wait to see the success of Studio 2.

Community Calendar

Saturday, Oct. 5

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

Free community breakfast @ St. Peter’s Episcopal Church, 9 a.m. All are welcome for food and fellowship.

Duck Creek Watershed Assembly hosts beach trash pickup day @ Duck Lake State Park, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Meet at picnic pavilion near swimming beach.

Justin Avdek and one of his “plusones” perform @ Fetch Brewing, 7

p.m.

Lynn Thompson performs @ Sawyers Brewing, 7 p.m.

Bent Carrot performs @ Pub One Eleven, 8 p.m.

Monday, Oct. 7

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

Wednesday, Oct. 9

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. 10

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.

Adult Open Studio @ ACWL-Nuveen Center, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Bring

projects from home or explore supplies available in the classroom.

Friday, Oct. 11

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

Nina Sofia performs @ Sawyers Brewig, 7 p.m. Outside In performs @ Pub One Eleven, 8 p.m.

Echoes of History: Citizens - Capt. Charles Lysaght

By Barbara Bedau Brow Volunteer Contributor

Captain Charles Andrew Lysaght was the first person appointed as keeper in charge of the White River Life Saving Station Jan. 11, 1887. He moved his family from St. Joseph in April 1887. During the next several months, he made improvements to the station by setting out trees and sowing grass.

Lysaght was born in St. Joseph, Michigan, March 5, 1855, one of 13 children of Richard and Catherine (nee Yore) Lysaght. He married Mary Ellen Flynn Aug. 27, 1878 in St. Joseph, Berrien County. They had nine children: Charles Jr (1879-1910); Catherine (1881-?); James P. (1884-1972); Agnes M. (1886-1982); Fanny (1889-1891); Baby (1890-1891); Richard (18911971); twins Mary J. (Sr. Mary Fides) (1894-1951) and Frances M. (Sr. Mary Caritas) (1894-1977). His wife Mary Ellen died at the Life Saving Station Sept. 15, 1898, at the age of 41 years.

Will Murray, Charles Pickett and Lafe Pugh joined the Life Saving crew at the White River Station in March 1892. There were other members of the crew who joined later, but there was no mention of them by name.

In April 1892 Capt. Lysaght bought a horse and road cart to ride to and from the Life Saving Station.

On a Saturday afternoon in early August 1893, the watch at the Life Saving Station noticed a signal of distress from a large three-master off the harbor. A boat was sent out and it found the Bark Col. Elsworth. It appeared one of the heavy blocks used in the rigging aloft worked loose and fell, striking the captain on the head and breaking his skull. With the assistance of the Life Savers, the boat was sailed into the harbor and the unconscious man was taken to the station while a doctor was summoned. The skull was found to be badly fractured. Everything was done for the sufferer and on Monday he was taken on the steamer Cayuga to Muskegon where he was placed on a boat for Chicago, his home. There did not appear to be any further report of the incident or outcome in the local newspapers.

Captain Lysaght had an addition built on the west side of the station in November 1894, to be used for sleeping rooms.

In December 1894, Charles Nickett and James Fitzgerald tendered their resignations for the next season.

When the Life Saving Station opened April 1, 1895 the following men made up the crew: J. W. Whelan, Lafayette Pugh, Joseph Edlund, William Murry, J. F. Yore, Charles E. Paget and Frank B. Reeder.

The life of a Life Saver was not such a happy-go-lucky one as some might believe. He had long tiresome watches to stand, night trips along the beach to make, several practice drills to go through and an endless amount of cleaning, painting, and scouring about the station, boats and tackle.

Standing watch was not as agreeable as it appeared. Although it required practically no physical effort, it was very weary, lonesome work. The watches were of two-hour durations each, and they continued day and night, without stopping, from the time the station opened in the spring until it closed in the fall.

The most uninviting thing to the men were the trips along the beach. Two trips were made in each direction from the station every night. Originally, the patrol distances were set up so the beach patrol would meet the patrol from its neighboring station, thus providing good coverage for isolated shorelines. As more and more of the coast came under the watchful eye of the service, it became impossible to provide such coverage. In the areas where overlapping patrols could not be maintained, the surfmen patrolled for five miles or more.

Patrolmen went both north and south along the water’s edge to the posts at the end of the beat early in the evening and again in the morning. In summer weather these journeys were not so bad, but during the fall when the northwest gale was blowing and the air was bitterly cold, these trips were not so pleasant. In the posts at the end of each beat were keys which fit the clocks carried by the patrolmen. Within the

clocks were paper dials which showed whether the person on the beat had faithfully performed his duty – which he always did at the White Lake station.

Then there were the various drills for the men to go through. The beach drill with the gun and lines, the pull with the surf boat and the capsizing drill with the large self-righting lifeboat. Besides drilling, the boys were required to keep the station in first class order. All brasswork was scoured and polished until it shone. The woodwork, wagons and boats were kept freshly painted and the ropes and tackle were all arranged in an orderly manner.

Although the station crew had many routine duties, their real trials began with the sound of alarm. Then, no matter what the time of day or night or how severe a storm was raging, they had to be ready to man a boat or start with the beach gun and line to the aid of those in distress. They could be called upon to work both day and night without rest at the hardest kind of physical labor or to stand exposed for hours at a time. But despite these severe and numerous hardships which constantly loomed up before them, it was to be said that they never shrank, if their assistance was needed, from facing the most terrible storm that rolls over the surface of Lake Michigan.

In October 1897, Captain Lysaght bought a farm in Claybanks but seemed to have trouble as his tenant refused to deliver on his share of the crops or to leave the place. A judgment resulted in Lysaght finally getting possession of the property.

In May 1899, a telephone was installed in the Life Saving Station.

After the passing of his first wife in 1898, Lysaght married Mary A. Murray, daughter of John and Hannah (nee Sullivan) Murray Nov. 29, 1899 in Montague. They had no children.

The crew that finished out the season Dec. 1, 1900, were John P. Whelan, Lafe Pugh, Charles Deneau, John F. Yore, Curtis E. Strengham, James Edlund and Charles Paget.

The names of the 1902 crew were John P. Whelan, Lafe Pugh, Joseph Edlund, Charles F. Paget, Charles A. De-

neau, and Curtis E. Strengham.

In April 1903, Curtis E. Strengham had left the crew and he was replaced by Wilbur Sill.

While serving at the Life Saving Station, Capt. Lysaght also owned and operated two boat liveries. One was located on White Lake and the other on Stony Lake. There were 25 rowboats and sailboats at each livery, all well-equipped and in good condition. Having had the businesses for 10 years, they were well established. In February 1904, he sold the businesses when he knew he was going to be transferred.

On March 1, 1904, after 17 years at the White River Life Saving Station, Capt. Lysaght was transferred to the Grand Point Au Sable station. Capt. Berndt Jackson was appointed keeper here to replace Lysaght. He served this station from 1904 to 1906. Then Capt. Edwin E. Bedford served from 1906-08, followed by Capt. Henry Curran from 1908-17, and Capt. John Barnard from 1917-30.

Captain Lysaght suffered a stroke at his home in Ludington where he died June 13, 1917. He and his first wife are buried in Saint Joseph City Cemetery in Saint Joseph, Berrien, Michigan, along with his parents and several siblings. His second wife died at Saint Ann’s Home in Grand Rapids, April 7, 1970. She is buried in Mount Calvary Cemetery in Montague.

• Courtesy Photo

Owner Korrine Rogers (right) and a local artist toast to the opening of Studio 2 Friday in Montague. The studio (left) offers artwork for sale from local artists.

• Madison Lajewski/Mirror

Lake Mirror Lake Mirror

NONPROFIT NEWS SOURCE community

‘Cats denied WMC title by North Muskegon

Fast start carries Norsemen past ‘Cats in hyped match; keeper Robby Smith saves pair of PKs for Montague

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

MUSKEGON — Few games in Montague soccer history have been as hyped as Wednesday’s clash with North Muskegon for the West Michigan Conference title, one in which the Wildcats needed only to tie to secure the championship.

Unfortunately, the Norsemen came out of the gate much quicker than the Wildcats did, and that made the difference in a 3-0 defeat.

With the win, the Norsemen clinched the WMC title with an 8-11 league record, edging Montague, which finished 8-2.

The Norsemen controlled the first half of play with terrific possession and scored the first goal of the game on a great pass across that Serj Pastor headed into the net. Six minutes later, they scored again on a shot from just inside the box.

Coach Brandon Mahoney said the Wildcats knew coming in that North Muskegon was a strong team on their new home turf field, and they did not defend well enough to start the game.

“The cleaner you can be, the better you’re going to be on turf, and they were very clean tonight,” Mahoney said. “We didn’t (defend) really well that first 10 minutes, when they got those couple goals.

“You’ve got to be tighter on the

marks. If you’re not jersey-tugging a little bit, then you’re probably not close enough. You watch them, when we got possession, that’s what they did. They were on our shoulders with a little jersey tug. It’s part of the game. They’re not pulling us down from behind, but they’re letting you know that pressure, that you’re there.”

North Muskegon scored a third goal early in the second half on a set play off a corner kick, essentially securing the win.

Mahoney did see some bright spots. First of all, keeper Robby Smith continued his impressive knack for turning away penalty kicks. Three times, the Norsemen were awarded PKs after Montague fouls in the box;

WMC showdown

continued on page 6

Defense fuels Vikings to rout of Manistee

By Andy Roberts

WHITEHALL — So much of defending a wing-T style of offense relies on discipline - on making sure you know what the other team is going to do before you attack, and then attacking.

The Vikings have proven adept at shutting down Manistee’s particular style of wing-T over the past few years, and Friday night, spearheaded by the whirling dervish that is Corde Anderson, they did so again. Whitehall permitted only 153 offensive yards, a lot of them coming after the issue was long decided, as the Vikings romped to a 49-6 homecoming win.

Anderson was responsible for a lot of that success. Technically, he only had three tackles - two of them sacks - but he also repeatedly got in the face of Manistee quarterback Dayvion Neal-Berry and forced the ball out of his hand for harmless incompletions.

“It’s a lot of discipline and every day at practice we work through it. We do exactly what they do,” Anderson said. “It’s the big discipline part of the whole thing. That’s really what runs our defense.”

Anderson added that his coaches deserve a lot of the credit.

“They help us out,” Anderson said. “They tell us what to do, and we just do it. We do a very good job about that. Fast and strong, that’s where it’s at.”

It was the Viking defense that provided their first spark Friday, forcing a three-and-out to start the game and then another one after the offense fumbled the ball to Manistee in Mariner territory. That second three-andout led to Camden Thompson’s 55yard punt return touchdown.

However, the offense needed another boost after punting its next possession, and Anderson provided it, recovering a Mariner fumble in easy scoring range for Whitehall. Two plays later, Thompson hit Hunter Osborne with a wide receiver screen and Osborne took it 21 yards to the house for a 14-0 lead.

“He’s got a phenomenal motor,” Whitehall coach Tony Sigmon said of Anderson. “He’s such a fun kid to coach. That effort and energy you saw tonight, he brings that every day. He’s a kid that when he walks in, he’s got a big smile on his face and it brings ev-

erybody up. For us, he’s an awesome weapon to have on the defense and on the offensive side. It’s really his motor, his effort and energy. He has one speed, and it’s 100 percent.”

The offense would not need any more boosts after that fumble recovery, as Thompson took off for a 54-yard touchdown run on the Vi-

kings’ next offensive play. Whitehall (3-2, 3-0 West Michigan Conference Lakes) added two more scores before halftime - another scoring run by Thompson and a 21-yard end around to paydirt by Osborne - to turn on the

Montague’s Trevin Silvers tries to knock the ball away from North Muskegon’s Max Lasser during Wednesday’s game at North Muskegon. The Norsemen won, 3-0.

• Andy Roberts/Mirror

Whitehall’s Corde Anderson slams Manistee’s Kaden Kott to the grond during Friday’s WMC Lakes game at Whitehall. Anderson’s two sacks and fumble recovery sparked the Vikings to a 49-6 homecoming victory. • Andy Roberts/Mirror

White Lake Mirror Editor

Montague’s Javari Aldridge and North Muskegon’s Sam Topping compete for the ball during Wednesday’s game. • Andy Roberts/Mirror

Montague’s Isaiah Towne battles for a loose ball with North Muskegon’s Sam Topping during Wednesday’s game at North Muskegon. • Andy Roberts/Mirror

Wildcats fall to Ludington in high-scoring battle

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

Montague was able to put up points Friday night at Ludington, but the Wildcats struggled to contain Orioles’ quarterback Cam Gunsell in a 45-34 defeat.

Gunsell threw for three touchdowns, ran for a 51-yard score, and carried the Oriole offense to a second and third-quarter outburst after Montague took a 14-7 lead out of the first quarter.

“Their quarterback is a really good player,” Montague coach Justin Dennett said. “He can run it and throw it. They hit some big plays on us. We had some missed tackles and missed assignments, but a lot of it is that he’s a great player.”

The Wildcats (3-2, 2-2 West Michigan Conference Lakes) made another quarterback change Friday, having Eli Petersen play full-time quarterback after Ryver Jarka had taken the reins for a few weeks. Petersen is a more experienced thrower than Jarka, and Dennett said the coaches felt the run-heavy offense had become too predictable for opposing defenses despite Jarka’s obvious athleticism being a factor.

“We feel like we were pretty one-dimensional with Ryver. It’s not that he can’t throw it, but we just haven’t practiced it much,” Dennett said. “Eli gives us some more balance and is able to spread it out to our offensive weapons... (He) was able to get the ball to Ryver in

space.”

The switch seemed to pay off early as Petersen threw two first-quarter touchdown passes to give the ‘Cats that 14-7 lead. From there, though, the O’s ripped off a 31-6 scoring run as the Wildcats struggled with turnovers and were unable to get big gains on the ground.

“It’s tough. we thought this was one we really needed and wanted,” Dennett said, noting that there were some mental miscues in the game but lauding his team’s effort late. “We’re going to build on the positives and get back to work Monday for North Muskegon.”

Petersen ran the ball in for a touchdown to get Montague within 38-28 early in the fourth quarter, but Ludington

Miscues cost Rockets upset bid vs. Forest Hills Northern

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

Reeths-Puffer went toe to toe with Forest Hills Northern on the road Friday night, but a trio of untimely turnovers doomed the Rockets in a 31-13 O-K Green Conference battle.

The two teams were evenly matched in first downs (the Huskies had one more than R-P) and total offensive yards (six more for FHN). But two lost fumbles, another fumble that the Rockets recovered but lost 20 yards in the process, and an interception wiped out some solid drives, compared with zero turnovers by the Huskies.

“I thought we did a decent job at times moving the ball, but it felt like we were waiting for something bad to happen,” R-P coach Cody Kater said. “Our guys just had a tough time executing and staying disciplined throughout drives.”

R-P (2-3, 1-1 O-K Green) knew going into the game that it faced

a tough task physically due to the Huskies’ impressive front line.

Colton Sawyer ran for 154 yards and four touchdowns on 26 carries, but the Huskies did not complete a pass and R-P would’ve earned some key defensive stops but for some penalties.

“We gave up a couple fourth down (conversions) on defense and we had a couple personal fouls that moved the chains on fourth down, and that just can’t happen, especially when you’re outmatched, which we were,” Kater said.

When the Rockets weren’t turning it over, they were efficient offensively. Bryce Muskovin gained 101 yards on only 10 carries, and Mason Darke completed 12-of-18 passes for 160 yards and a pair of touchdowns. Lukas Johnson caught one of those scores and had 68 yards receiving, and Marvin Moore had 62 yards.

On defense, Elliot Schneider

Defense leads way

running clock for the second half with a 35-0 advantage.

Manistee didn’t get on the board until the fourth quarter, with mostly reserves in the game on defense. Sigmon credited the defense with disciplined play; they were able to pick up some lessons from facing Unity Christian and Zeeland West, who also run T formation offenses, though not the same as Manistee’s.

“They’re very steady, almost like a metronome, where it’s like, ‘Here it comes,’” Sigmon said of the Crusaders’ and Dux’ sets. “It’s amazingly efficient. With Manistee, they have elements of it too, but then they break the T with the wide receiver, with the motions in the backfield, and with the counter. You really have to be a little bit more aware of that, in terms of play on the back end.”

had eight tackles, three for loss. He also caught Darke’s other touchdown throw.

Kater said the Rockets will just have to keep battling, crediting his team with strong effort against more talented foes but knowing the mistakes must be cleaned up to produce wins - especially because things aren’t getting any easier with a home tilt with Byron Center on deck.

“We’re in a tough spot within our schedule and we knew that going into it,” Kater said. “We feel like we toed up (FHN) well. We knew we were outmatched up front and it would be difficult to slow them down. The staff has done a great job preparing the team for these different teams, and I’m sure it’ll be no different going into Byron Center. We’ll get the guys in, and we’re doing it the hard way now in terms of following the success the teams of the last two years laid down.”

continued from page 4

Whitehall’s Ryan Goodrich gets away from a Manistee defender to get more yardage during Friday’s game at Whitehall. The Vikings won big, 49-6. • Andy Roberts/Mirror

responded with another scoring drive to salt the game away. Petersen did, however, find Talan Degen for a 65-yard touchdown strike in the late moments.

Petersen was 22-of-33 through the air for 240 yards and three touchdowns, though he also threw three interceptions. Jarka led in receiving with eight catches for 115 yards and a score Fletcher Thommen paced the defense with nine tackles.

“We did some good things, and there are definitely some positives we can build off,” Dennett said. “We have to have a good week of practice and build on the week of practice we had this week, and we’ll be in good shape.”

Sports in Brief

Fremont 4 Whitehall 0

Despie 15 saves from keeper Garrett Taylor, the Vikings couldn’t slow down a tough Fremont team as they opened a stretch of 3 conference games in 3 days.

Jenison 5 Reeths-Puffer 2 Nick Clemens and Owen Ritsema each got on the board, but the Rockets lost their 3rd consecutive conference game.

Whitehall 5 Shelby 0 Garrett Taylor earned the shutout in goal, making 6 saves. Tommy Leeke scored 2 goals and Carter Burrous had a goal and an assist.

and Andon Palmer’s penalty kick gave the Vikes a 2-1 lead. However, Ravenna tied the game late to keep Whitehall from victory.

3 Holton 0

Montague 3 Ludington 1 The Wildcats dropped a close

Montague 4th, Whitehall 6th at Ludington Invite

Montague’s Brynlee Kessler shot a personal-best 88, including a birdie, to propel the Wildcats ahead of Whitehall for the 2nd meet in a row - a 376 to the Vikings’ 399. Grace McDowell led Whitehall with a 90, a score matched by Montague’s Braylyn Bultema.

Montague 7th at T.C. Central Invite

Against a challenging course and high-level opposition, the Wildcats tuned up for the coming postseason. Braylyn Bultema shot a 100 and made 2 birdies, and Cadence Fox posted a 103.

“I have as much confidence in what we’re doing offensively as I’ve had in any other year,” Sigmon said. “We know they have to key one person, but if they key on one, someone else can go (make a play) for us. I’m very happy with where we are right now. We went through a lot of adversity in those first couple of weeks, but I’m hoping that this is the payout.”

Whitehall will next face Oakridge, a traditionally key

Whitehall got a lot of guys involved on offense. Thompson had 153 yards of offense, throwing for two scores and running for one. Gavin Craner ran for 75 yards and a score; Osborne ran for and caught a touchdown; Ryan Goodrich carried for 54 yards and his own touchdown. The multifaceted attack is what Sigmon and the coaches pictured when Thompson was installed as the signal-caller in the offseason.

marker to the schedule. The Vikes have routed the Eagles each of the last two seasons, but that shouldn’t change the team’s focus level.

“I think we’ve fought through a lot of adversity, going against Zeeland West and having a bad game at Unity Christian,” Anderson said. “We weren’t in the rhythm of things. I think now, we’re finally in a rhythm to continue what we’re able to do. I think we really showed a little bit of that tonight, and I think we’re ready to show it again next week.”

Elijah Roberge/Evan Thomas and Remington Whelpley/Adam Sikkenga.

Stewart Waters wins at Allendale Invite Waters set a new personal best - in fact, all 5 Viking scorers did - and won the boys’ race. His time was 15:57.9. The Vikings took 2nd place, and Hunter Parsons and Drew Boeringa both were in the top 10. Cami Kraai and Adalyn Britton both placed in the top 10 to lead Whitehall’s girls team to 4th place. Montague’s teams placed 6th (boys) and 8th (girls), led by Alix Draves and Erica Hansen respectively.

Whitehall boys 2nd at Ludington Jamboree Stewart Waters won his 3rd consecutive race, with a time of 17:03.9, and Hunter Parsons and Drew Boeringa both finished in the top 10 as well. In the girls’ race, Cami Kraai took 4th and Adalyn Britton 5th in the girls’ race. For Montague, Alix Draves paced the boys in 13th place and Grace Torsch was 21st for the girls.

Burgos-Yack

Reeths-Puffer 4 Sparta 4 Statistics were not available from the Rockets’ home finale at press time.

Mona Shores 3 Reeths-Puffer 0

The Rockets showed improvement despite the loss. Alissa Klopp had 9 kills and Madilynn Dyer posted 13 assists.

Whitehall 2-0 at Mona Shores Double Dual

The Vikings defeated both Mona Shores and Grand Rapids Catholic Central. Whitehall flights to go 2-0 included singles players Brady Tate and Evan Schuitema and doubles flights Patrick Cole/Ian Sampson,

Whitehall

The Vikes dominated a cross-division WMC matchup, 25-11, 25-4, 25-13. They served 17 aces as a team, led by Sidney Shepherd’s 7. Shepherd and Bella Fogus each had 8 kills, and Aaliyah Jamison recorded 14 digs.

WMC showdown

Smith saved the first two, and the third one, perhaps as a result of those saves, was sent high over the crossbar.

“That’s three PK saves any way you mark it up. He played phenomenal for us tonight,” Mahoney said. “If somebody wants to contest it with me, I will debate them all day that he is the best keeper in the WMC.”

Another bright spot for Mahoney was the Wildcats’ improved and passionate play the final 20 minutes or so. It was, perhaps, a bit too passionate at times - a Wildcat was sent off with a red card late in the game - but it was a more physical style that looked more like the Montague fans have seen all season.

“We’ve got to come out that whole game like that,” Mahoney said. “We may end up moving a few people around. We saw some things in the last 20 minutes that were good.”

The Wildcats will now turn their attention to the district tournament, where they earned the top seed and will also host the tournament. Montague faces Grant in the opener and would get Orchard View or Tri-County by winning in the first round. A potential finals grudge match against either rival Whitehall or a Fremont team that

Montague’s Lucas Husband maintains possesion as North Muskegon’s Lliam Carty defends during Wednesday’s game at North Muskegon.

• Andy Roberts/Mirror

handed the ‘Cats their other league defeat could await.

“We have been notoriously tough at home,” Mahoney said. “Fruitport was the only one that stung us at home, and we knew that was going to be a tough match, going against a state ranked Division 2 team. We have fought back from some adversity this season at home, and I know the crowd’s going to be huge.”

Vikings tie for 2nd at conference tennis tourney

Whitehall finished in a second-place tie with North Muskegon at Wednesday’s Coastal Conference tournament, finishing behind only Ludington.

The Vikings’ top doubles flight, Patrick Cole/Ian Sampson, won the teams’ only flight championship with a pair of close straight-set wins over pairs from Western Michigan Christian and North Muskegon.

Each of Whitehall’s singles players - William Burger, Brady Tate, Evan Schuitema and Ryne Nicholas - won one match to help lift the Vikings’ score. Whitehall’s second, third and

fourth doubles flights also won one match apiece, with Myles Welch/Jon Hall, Elijah Roberge/Evan Thomas and Remington Whelpley/Adam Sikkenga securing a win each.

Reeths-Puffer brings home first ever boys GMAA title

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

Reeths-Puffer won its first ever GMAA championship in boys tennis Saturday, taking the top spot in four of the eight flights. The Rockets scored 21 points, with Whitehall earning 17 points to take second.

R-P played in the finals in all eight flights, with four runners-up joining the four flight champions. The Rockets’ top three doubles pairs - Cade Paugh/Holden Earnest, Trent VanDam/Leo Kretschmar and Jackson Baldus/Adam Schrumpf - all won their championships, and Adam Miller added a title at No. 4 singles.

Two doubles finals pitted Reeths-Puffer and Whitehall pairs against one another. At No. 2 doubles, VanDam/Kretschmar edged Whitehall’s Jon Hall/Myles Welch in an excellent match, 7-6(6), 2-6, 10-8. Whitehall’s Elijah Roberge/Evan Thomas were runners-up to Baldus/Schrumpf at No. 3 doubles, with a 7-5, 6-1 final. Paugh/Earnest’s No. 1 doubles title

match was one of the best of the day, as they fought back from a first-set defeat to edge Carter Mieler/Logan Stack of North Muskegon, 4-6, 6-2, 10-8.

Miller’s No. 4 singles title was a bit easier to win, as he dispatched all three of his opponents in straight sets.

Rocket runners-up were their top three singles players - Ethan Frang, Quinn Alderink and Cory Judd - and No. 4 doubles pair Erik Trulsen/Preston Singleton.

Evan Schuitema provided the Vikings’ lone flight championship, defeating Judd in the No. 3 singles final by a 6-1, 6-0 score. Schuitema was dominant all day, only surrendering one game apiece in the three matches he played.

William Burger, Brady Tate and Ryne Nicholas each won a pair of matches for the Vikings in singles play to help propel them to second place in the team standings. Patrick Cole/ Ian Sampson and Adam Sikkenga/ Remington Whelpley also won a pair of matches each in the doubles flights.

Montague beats Ravenna, celebrates Youth Night

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

MONTAGUE — Montague celebrated Youth Soccer Night for its home game against Ravenna Monday, and the varsity ‘Cats delivered a win for their young fans, 2-0.

Javari Aldridge and Trevor Trevino each scored for Montague (14-4, 8-1 West Michigan Conference), with Trevino’s goal coming on a penalty kick. Both goals were in the first half.

The ‘Cats welcomed over a dozen youth players from the White Lake Youth Sports Club and the White Lake Breakers teams to greet the players whose footsteps they’re trying to follow. The youth players greeted the varsity players during lineup introductions and were able to take some prac-

tice shots against JV players during halftime of the game.

Montague’s Javari Aldridge high-fives a tunnel of local youth soccer players prior to Monday’s WMC game against Ravenna.

• Andy Roberts/Mirror

Montague welcomed many players from local youth leagues and the White Lake Breakers to Monday night’s game as a celebration of the next generation of Wildcat soccer.

• Andy Roberts/Mirror Trevino, Aldridge score in Montague victory

Sampson Cole

Montague’s Javari Aldridge (left) goes after the ball while Ravenna’s JJ Houseman attempts to retain possession during Monday’s game at Montague. The Wildcats won, 2-0. • Andy Roberts/Mirror

Vikings overcome mistakes, beat Manistee

By Andy Roberts

Lake Mirror Editor

WHITEHALL — Despite playing mistake-prone volleyball Tuesday night, Whitehall was able to largely control a match against Manistee and come away with a 25-17, 25-16, 26-28, 25-20 win.

The Vikings battled against themselves for much of the match, making 38 attack errors, 13 of them in game three, which the Mariners won despite a late Whitehall rally. In all, the Vikings hit only .068 for the match.

“Our passing was great,” Whitehall coach Ted Edsall said. “The defense was great. Aaliyah Jamison, with 31 digs, was fantastic in the back row. She’s a really good defender. Our back row play, our first contact, our serving, was fine. We’ve just got to attack the ball better.”

Whitehall was working with a retooled lineup that featured Jamison in the red defensive specialist/libero jersey. The role certainly seemed to agree with the sophomore, who racked up a team-high 31 digs and continued to get credit from Edsall for her high-energy play.

Whitehall (9-9, 2-2 West Michigan Conference Lakes) did show some impressive grit in the third game despite all its miscues. After being behind by as many as eight points during the game, the Vikings came roaring out of a timeout facing a 21-15 deficit and scored five consecutive points. Whitehall then set senior Sidney Shepherd down the stretch, and Shepherd responded with her team’s next four points, which tied the match at 24. Edsall said the team’s

emphasis on Shepherd was no accident and said she has responded well to being looked to for more attacking after being the team’s setter the past two seasons.

“She’s had a good run,” Edsall said, adding that Shepherd and fellow outside hitter Bella Fogus are both left-handed, adding a new dimension to the offense. “I was worried about her serving a little bit earlier this year, but she’s really started to serve well. She’s never hit before. This is all new for her... She’s doing a great job.”

The Vikings’ errors got the best of them late in game three, though, as they were unable to convert on two match points and ultimately had to play a fourth game.

However, the Vikings took an early lead in that fourth game and were never threatened. Edsall said the team has been handling adversity better as the season has gone along.

“We made a pact with each other,” Edsall said. “I’m letting them play more, giving them less information as they play. They’ve been around me enough that they know what they’re doing wrong. I’m leaving all that alone, and I’m just doing strategy and some serving stuff. I think it’s helping. I’m letting the players take care of themselves.”

Fogus went down late in the match with an ankle injury. At first glance it did not appear to be serious, though if she does miss time the Vikings will have

to make yet another lineup adjustment. The team is continuing to search for the right combination in hopes of becoming its best self in November, when it matters most.

“It’s match to match for us,” Edsall said. “We’re going to beat some of these teams at the end of the year. That’s our goal. We’re going to get better. Every day at practice, we’re going to get a little bit better, and we’re going to find a lineup that makes us the best we can be, and then we’re going to play hard and hopefully upset a couple good teams.”

Fogus and Shepherd had 15 kills apiece, and Fogus also had 26 digs to supplement Jamison’s 31. Delaney Kramer had five blocks, and the team served well, with only four errors.

Police activity this week

was an emergency. When the officer responded at 10:55 p.m. he arrested the woman for improper use of 911. As the officer attempted to take the suspect into custody, she resisted attempts to handcuff her and then refused to walk to the patrol car. She was eventually lodged at the Muskegon County jail with and additional charge of resisting arrest.

Sept. 27

Whitehall Police Report

Sept. 26

Whitehall Police were called at 8:48 p.m. to assist in a dispute over child custody. A Ludington resident came to Whitehall, where she believed her ex was staying, and had their child-incommon. She was asking the officer to arrest the ex on a warrant from another county and then turn the child over to her. At the residence in the 1300 block of Division St., the officer was told that the man left the house before the officer arrived and the child had been left in the care of the resident, an uncle. The officer suggested the woman petition for a court order to get the child since there was no order in place. No further action was taken.

At 9:37 p.m. the on-duty officer responded to the first of four dispatches, of 10 calls to 911. The officer arrived and spoke with the resident, who according to the police report appeared intoxicated. While speaking with the woman, it was discovered there was no emergency. During subsequent calls, the 65-year-old was warned about misusing 911 and not to call unless there

Whitehall Police responded to the 500 block of Hanson St. for a well-being check. A friend of the 95-year-old resident was concerned because she had not been able to contact her friend all day. When the officer arrived at the home at 3:01 p.m., he was able to enter through an unlocked door and found the woman lying in bed and then startled her when he tried to wake her up. The victim said she hadn’t been feeling well and was sleeping most of the day. No further action was taken.

The parent of a 14-year-old asked for assistance with his daughter from an officer working at the football game. The Whitehall man said his daughter was at the game but changed her clothing and was sending texts to her boyfriend. The student did not want to go with her parents, but was informed by the officer that she was being kicked out of the game and would have to go with her parents.

Officers working at the football game were dispatched to an intoxicated subject near the middle school. When the officers arrived, they noted signs of intoxication and a breath test was over three times the limit for driving. An ambulance was called during

the 8:17 p.m. call but the 44-year-old woman refused to go to the hospital for evaluation. She was later taken home by her husband.

At 9:13 p.m. Whitehall Police were called to a report of a man down on the sidewalk in the 100 block of Misco Dr. When the officer arrived, he found an 80-year-old Whitehall resident who reported that he had been at the club and was having difficulty walking home. The officer transported the man the rest of the way home.

Sept. 28

A resident of the 1200 block of Colby St. called to report they believed someone was breaking into their apartment. The caller told the officer that over a period of time she believed someone entered her apartment and ate Goldfish crackers, another time peanut butter and a third time moved her bed from the wall. There were no signs of forced entry and the woman said that she had changed the locks twice during the time. She requested the officer make a report to document the issues.

Sept. 30

A White Lake Fire officer called police after a vehicle nearly struck him driving on the wrong side of Colby St. The incident occurred in the 600 block at about 11:03 a.m. The officer spoke with the driver, who did not appear intoxicated, and claimed he was eating chips when the incident happened. The 43-year-old Whitehall man was cited for Careless Driving.

A report of an assault was taken at Whitehall High School by the SRO. The SRO was contacted by staff at 2:24 p.m.

after the parents of the victim requested the police involvement. During the investigation, the officer learned that after a brief exchange of words, a student knocked the hat off the second student. The second then punched the first in the face, causing minor injury. The case is being forwarded to Family Court for possible charges.

At 3:43 p.m. Whitehall officers were dispatched to the 200 block of Colby St. on a report of a woman in the roadway. The officer arrived and located the woman, who appeared to be catching imaginary leaves as they fell from the sky. The woman was directed to go home and to stay out of the roadway. Oct. 1

Following up on a report from school staff, the SRO issued a suspended student a citation for trespassing. The student had been suspended previous to the football game on the 27th and was instructed not to be on school property. Staff identified the student as being at the game and was made to leave school grounds at that time. The citation was served to the student and his mother at their residence.

An argument between a boyfriend and girlfriend led to a police response to the 1100 block of Division St. The caller reported that she and the man she was living with argued because he had gotten a tattoo without asking her. She was now planning on moving out but wanted an officer there. During the 6:38 p.m. call, the man said that they had been together four years but she constantly accuses him of cheating on her. The woman’s sister came to get her and no further action was taken.

White

Whitehall’s Bella Fogus tries to fit the ball between Manistee blockers during Tuesday’s match at Whitehall. The Vikings won, 3-1.

• Andy Roberts/Mirror

Whitehall’s Brianna Bentz attacks the ball as Manistee’s Maya Goodspeed tries to block it during Tuesday’s match at Whitehall.

• Andy Roberts/Mirror

Celebrate Michigan Library Appreciation Month

By Virginia DeMumbrum Volunteer Contributor

October is here, and that means it’s time to celebrate Michigan Library Appreciation Month! This year’s theme is “Let’s Go!” because there are so many reasons to GO visit your library and get inspired.

Let’s Go Explore! Discover new adventures with the Michigan Activity Pass, available on our website at wlclib. org. Get discounted tickets to over 200 Michigan parks and attractions. You can also explore our website to find a new book, a movie, or an engaging event - there’s always something exciting happening at the library. Check out our calendar for upcoming book discussions, storytimes, and more.

Let’s Go Learn! Our library offers a wealth of resources and programs to help you learn and grow. From trusted health information and local history collections to job skills training and

homework help, we’ve got you covered. Don’t forget, with your library card you have access to ebooks, audiobooks, newspapers, magazines, movies, and music – all for free! Plus, enjoy the convenience of locker pickup at three area locations.

Let’s Go Connect! Libraries are all about community. If you don’t have a library card yet, now is the perfect time to get one. Visit wlclib.org or give us a call to sign up and start enjoying all the digital services and resources we offer, including hotspots and laptops. We’re here to help you connect with the world around you.

Michigan Library Appreciation Month is a statewide observance sponsored by the Michigan Library Association (MLA) and libraries of all types across the state each October. For more information, visit milibraries.org/Michigan-Library-Appreciation-Month.

FUN FACT: The Michigan Library Association was founded in 1891 by Mary A Eddy, the librarian at Coldwater Free Public Library, and Henry M. Utley of the Detroit Public Library. The first meeting was held in Detroit Sept. 1, 1891, with 37 members in attendance.

The Montague High School homecoming court posed for a photo Sept. 25 at the high school. The homecoming king and queen will be crowned at halftime of the Oct. 11 football game against Fremont. The court consists of, left to right, front row, Steven Aebig, Addison Hren, Wyatt Grawey, Gabriella Dietz, Elijah Eilers and Ayla Adams; second row, Kellan Francis, Maizie Collins, Aidan Kutches, Addison Pranger, Bucky Aney and Ava Pelton; third row, Greta Auch, Adilynn Peterson, Jordan Netcott, Abby Dyer and Braylyn Bultema; fourth row, Jack Degen, Lucas Husband, Trevor Trevino, Ryver Jarka and David Myers. • Andy Roberts/Mirror

Montague gears up for homecoming

Montague High School homecoming is taking on a music genre theme this year, with each class assigned a different genre. Freshmen were assigned rock, sophomores got hip-hop, juniors are participating in a disco theme, and seniors are going with country music. Each class will build a homecoming float that fits that theme.

Homecoming activities begin Friday, Oct. 4 with a pep assembly, and starting Monday, Oct. 7 a variety of dress-up days will build anticipation for the Friday, Oct. 11 game against Fremont, with the traditional blue/white dress-up day, district-wide assembly with the Montague pep band, and a 6 p.m. homecoming parade beginning at the corner of Cook and Hancock streets. The king and queen will be crowned at halftime of the game, with a homecoming dance Saturday, Oct. 12 at 8 p.m. in the high school gym.

It’s PumpkinFest Time Again!

The 28th annual festival will be held Saturday, Oct. 12, from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. in downtown Montague. The ever-popular Pumpkin Roll will be offered, with the Dowling Street hill open for rolling pumpkins beginning at 11 a.m. Bring your own, or purchase a pumpkin for $3. There will also be food, music, a cider mill, a craft fair, and more. The library will be there with the Book Bike, so be sure to stop by and pick up a free goody bag for adults, plus a free book and a simple activity for the kids. While you’re there, pick up some great tips for borrowing downloadable books, audios, movies and more, FREE with your library card. PumpkinFest is hosted by the White Lake Area Chamber and Visitors Bureau and many sponsors, including this year’s Gold Sponsor, Rant Insurance Group.

Second Annual Good Neighbor Day Dinner Was a Hit!

A huge thank-you to all those who attended our National Good Neighbor Day dinner Thursday, Sept. 26. It was a wonderful evening of good food, good conversations, and beautiful weather again this year. Thanks, too, to our many community partners and donors who helped with everything from ta-

bles and place settings to centerpieces and signage.

Looking ahead, additional funds are needed to make this sustainable as an annual event. We are also thinking of forming a community-wide committee to plan and execute the event each year. As rewarding as it is, it is also a lot for our small staff to carry out on our own. If you – or a local organization you are part of – would be interested in partnering with the library for the third annual Good Neighbor Day Dinner, please reach out to us at 231-894-9531 or info@wlclib.org. We look forward to working with more neighbors to continue this great community-building event in the coming years.

Good Neighbor Day celebrated

The second annual Good Neighbor Day Dinner returned to White Lake last Thursday, Sept 26 at The Playhouse. Local business owners, city officials and community members gathered to discuss topics such as how they wish to continue growing as a community. The family-style dinner is aimed at encouraging conversations with local “neighbors” and tightening community ties.

Good Neighbor Day is a national initiative celebrated each Sept. 28. It was created in “a response to the growing concerns of loneliness and isolation.” It also encourages community members to be more caring and connected.

The local event was organized by White Lake Community Library, in partnership with The Playhouse, City of Whitehall, Debbie Does Dishes and Lebanon Lutheran Church.

“The conversations are great to listen to,” White Lake Library adult program coordinator

Amy Morris-Jones said. “We put some conversation prompts on the tables themselves to kind of break the ice and get people talking, but honestly about five minutes in, everybody’s talking about all sorts of things. The fun part is we have people choose a table number, so they end up seated most likely with people they may not know. You get separated from the person you came with, which is a little intimidating at first,

but the whole point is to meet neighbors, people who you might not interact with otherwise and build connections. By five minutes into the dinner, everybody is having conversations about the area or their interests, all sorts of things.”

White Lake Community Library has hosted this event through grant money and donations in the past, and is accepting donations for next year’s Good Neighbor Day Dinner.

DeMumbrum

Whitehall seniors Brady Tate and Sidney Shepherd were crowned homecoming king and queen at halftime of the Vikings’ 49-6 win over Manistee Friday night.

Andy Roberts/Mirror

Whitehall

Madison Lajewski White Lake Mirror Writer