The Oceana Echo - Volume 1, Issue 19, Oct. 6, 2023

An Autumn Aerial

Stony Lake Therapeutic Riding Center becomes ‘Thriving Tides Therapy’

By Sharon Hallack

The Oceana Echo Community Contributor

The Stony Lake Therapeutic Riding Center, in operation at the Stony Lake Stables since April of 2020, unveiled a new name at its 3rd annual Silent Auction & Line Dance at the ranch on Saturday. The new name, “Thriving Tides Therapy,” came about due to a number of factors.

The program, which started as a horseback riding therapy program only, has grown by leaps and bounds over the

past three years and has since branched out to offer other therapy-related programs. “First, the name change came about because we aren’t just doing equine-assisted therapy riding anymore. We’d like to eventually hire recreational therapists and be able to offer other types of therapies, such as adapted sports or aquatic therapy, not just horseback riding. Second, we wanted a name that would allow us to move locations within Oceana County and keep the name recognition. Thirdly, we wanted the name to reflect that what we’re doing is true recreational therapy, with goals and evaluations for every client,” said Certified Ther-

apeutic Riding Specialist and PATH International Certified Riding Instructor Aubrey Boerma.

Besides therapeutic riding, the center offers an equine-assisted learning program with local special education

classes and hosts local Future Farmers of America clubs that focus on animal care, therapy job skills and how nonprofits work. They’ve also partnered with the West Michigan S.A.I.L. (Servicemembers Adapting Interacting Living) program and assisted at a Post Traumatic Stress Disorder program this past spring.

“We’re finding that funding is the biggest struggle. We started in 2020 only charging $30 per hour, per client. Technically, the value is $145 per hour. We are looking for more monthly donors and corporate sponsors. We’ve received and are extremely grateful for several grants. But they don’t cover everything. We are serving clients

in six counties, five of which are in the 10 lowest-income counties in the state. It’s sad we don’t have all the resources we need, but there’s a lot of people who are trying to change that,” Boerma said.

“We had a pretty small turnout at this year’s annual fundraiser, but still raised almost as much as last year - just over $6,500! We announced our name change and that we will be taking one therapy session off for November and December to focus solely on building up our corporate and monthly sponsor lists. We want to try and keep our fees low for clients. The most fun

event of the evening was having me in the dunk tank! It was a big hit, especially for our younger clients,” she said. Monthly donors, corporate sponsors and volunteers from all walks of life giving whatever they can will make a huge difference, Boerma added. Normal programming takes place Monday through Thursday from 3-7 p.m. School programming for foster youth is offered when requested on weekdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Anyone interested in becoming a sponsor or volunteering at the center is asked to email Boerma directly at aubrey@stonylakestables.com.

The leaves are almost at peak color across Oceana County. The above photo was taken just outside of downtown Mears by The Oceana Echo’s newly acquired camera-equipped drone. Look for more aerial shots in upcoming editions of our paper. • Brendan Samuels/Echo

Lauryn Greiner and Tyler VanderZanden were crowned the 2023 Hart Homecoming Queen and King at halftime of last Friday’s varsity football game. The Pirates defeated the MCC Spartans 30-8.

Pentwater Home Tour to benefit COVE set for next Saturday

This year’s home tour includes five beautiful homes located in the Pentwater area, including three near or on Pentwater Lake and another overlooking Lake Michigan. In addition, the newly remodeled Pentwood Cabins will also be on the tour for visitors to view. The homes and the Pentwood Cabins will be available for touring on Oct. 14 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. Tickets may also be purchased in front of the Pentwater Village Hall on Hancock Street from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. the day of the home tour. Pre-sale tickets are available at Jilly’s Gallery and Port View Wine and Beer Market, both on Hancock Street,and also at Snyder’s Shoes and Moda. Both are on Ludington Avenue in Ludington.

The ticket, in the form of a booklet and a wristband, includes a map, 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 2023 Home Tour are located at:

•  120 E. First St. in Pentwater

•  Pentwood Cabins Monroe Rd. in Pentwater Township

•  505 E. Sixth St. in Pentwater

•  697 E. Lake Rd. in Pentwater

•  5360 Tonto Rd. in Pentwater Township

•  5437 Ridge Rd. Pleasant Beach on Lake Michigan, Pentwater Township

Oceana Center Grange Agricultural Report for October 2023

By Phil Carter The Oceana Echo Agricultural Consultant

Harvest is ripe in the land of Oceana. As many crops are at the end of their life cycle, another is just beginning. As silage and soybeans are finished, wheat, primarily red wheat, is being planted. Although soils are currently dry, there is time for fall rains to germinate and produce a successful crop. Squash is currently being harvested, green bean picking will continue until a killing frost and apple picking is in full swing around the state. Empire, Jonagold and Jonathan varieties are in full harvest with Red and Golden Delicious starting soon. Later varieties, such as Romes, Idared and Crispin, need a few days to ripen. Maturity is determined in many ways, with starch, pressure and brix readings being indicators of when to harvest for long-term storage. Apple growers are scheduling thirdparty food safety audits, with the primary ones being USDA GAP. Primus growers are encouraged to spot pick, leaving the small fruit on the trees, and this makes harvest go slower.

In the grain arena, a few soybeans have been run, and high-moisture corn for livestock feed is beginning. Corn silage chopping is winding down with grain corn a ways off, and more heat units are needed to complete the ripening process. Bean markets are favorable, but corn prices are lower than needed for a profitable season. Exports are down and river levels are low, with barge shipping to the gulf ports slow and expensive. That in turn raised the basis price, further eroding cash prices.

Harvest activities in full swing mean lots of trucks and farm equipment on area roadways. Please be patient with these slow-moving pieces of equipment, follow standard safety practices such as proper following distance, and avoid passing in unsafe areas while keeping a watchful eye out for this equipment. At the end of the day, we all want to go home to our families in one piece.

Estate Auction

Saturday, Oct. 14 at 11:00 am

Located at 2074 W. Polk Rd., Hart, MI 49420, about a mile and a half East of the intersection of Polk and Oceana Drive. Watch for Signs. The Estate of Howard Knapp, Absolute Auction, no reserves. McGhan Auction Service: 2002 N. 100th Ave, Hart, MI 49420

(231) 873-5817 or (231) 590-4767

Household:

Coffee Table, Lamp Stands, Lamps, Small Oil Burner Stove, Secretary Desk(Very nice condition), Double Beds with Frames, Dressers and Mirrors, Glass Knick Knacks, Kitchen Table & 5 Chairs, Desks, Portable Washing Machine, Nick Nack Shelf, Assorted Knickknacks, Wooden Chair, Assorted Bowls Pots Pans and Kitchen Utensils, Canning Jars, 2 Pantry Closets, Microwave, Small Hutch, Drink Croc, Singer Serger, Singer Sewing Machine, Card Table, Magazine Racks, Small Freezer, Cabinet, New Thermal Laminator, Coolers

Garage:

Work lights, shovels, rakes, hoes, Extension Cords, Ryobi cutoff saw, 2 Floor Jacks, Step Ladders, Axes, Dremel, Battery Chargers, Socket and wrench set, Skill saws, 100 Piece Bolt sets(2), Cordless Drill, Jig Saw, Impact Drill, Drill Press, Battery Operated Chainsaw, Aluminum Snowshoes, Hand Saws, Car Bike Rack, Tire Pump, Weed Trimmer, 2 Rolls Barb Wire Fencing, Tap Set, Push Mower, C5-50 Chainsaw, Sawzall, Yard Seader, Single and Double Whiffle Trees, Electric Hedge trimmer, Child Sled, Tool Boxes with Tools, Snow Rake.

Guns:

Mossberg 410 Model-183DD, 12GA Mossberg 500HT 6C21712, Glenfield Model 60 22 Long only, Model 422 22 Cal SLLR, J.C. Higgins 22 Cal SLLR.

Vintage:

Vintage Floor Radio, Vintage Victor Stove, Philco Floor Radio, Old Trunks, Old Milk Pals, Royal Typewriter, Vintage Plates and Silverware, Vintage 3 Piece Bedroom Set, Copper Boiler, Red Ware Jug, Vintage Adding Machine, Small Vintage Kitchen Wood Stove, Vintage Home Educator Easel Desk and Black Board, Livestock Fencer, Ice Skates, Cherry Pitter, Wine Press, Draw Shave, Kerosine Lanterns, 2 Person Bucksaw, Pipe Wrenches, Highchair, Cradle Syth, Sit on Whetstone, Hand Held Syth, Potato & Corn Hand Held Planters, Old Belt Pully bzz rig.

Many More Items to Numerous to Mention.

Terms of Sale, Cash or Check with positive I.D, No out of state checks will be excepted. Sorry no credit cards. Not responsible for Accidents or property loss.

Shelby Tigers celebrate ‘Out of this World’ Homecoming

Shelby High School is celebrating Homecoming this week with a full slate of events This year’s theme is “Out of this World,” with the freshmen featuring planets; sophomores, stars; juniors, aliens; and seniors, astronauts.

The Shelby High School Student Council hosted a week-long spike ball competition; a powderpuff game took place Wednesday afternoon, Oct. 4; and a pep assembly today.

The parade will also be today at 5 p.m. before the football game against the Manistee Mariners.  The homecoming dance will take place at the high school Saturday from 8-11 p.m.

The SHS 2023 Homecoming Court includes: freshmen Brody Fessenden and Grace Anne Eckert; sophomores Kasey Lamblin and Elaina Davis; juniors Nolyn Fenton and Leisy Green; and seniors Molli Schultz, Remington Johnson, Hailey Jones, Kendall Zaverl, Hannah Frees, Phillip Hayes, Ben Cederquist, Mauricio Castillo, Logan Selig and Wyatt Dickman.

The Shelby High School 2023 Homecoming Court is pictured at left. Back row, from left: Kasey Lamblin (sophomore), Nolyn Fenton (junior), Phillip Hayes (senior), Ben Cederquist (senior), Mauricio Castillo (senior), Logan Selig (senior), Wyatt Dickman (senior), Brody Fessenden (freshmen). Front row, from left: Elaina Davis (sophomore), Leisy Green (Junior), Molli Schultz (senior), Remington Johnson (senior), Hailey Jones (senior), Kendall Zaverl (senior), Hannah Frees (senior), and Grace Anne Eckert (freshmen).

PSA recognizes

Oceana

County Marine Deputy Officer Tim Simon

In recognition of his 19 years serving the Pentwater Boating community, the Pentwater Sportfishing Association presented Oceana County Marine Deputy Officer Tim Simon with a plaque of appreciation for his efforts.

Pentwater Arts Council 2023 Sculpture Walk to conclude in mid-October

The 2023 Pentwater Sculpture Walk is drawing to an end, and awards for the People’s Choice and Juror’s Award, as well as a purchase award, will be announced on Oct. 14 at an Artist’s Reception. The Sculpture Walk event is sponsored by the Pentwater Arts Council, and 2023 concludes the second of a threeyear commitment. Artists are chosen based on the uniqueness of their artwork and the meaning and interpretation of their pieces.

The People’s Choice award is determined by resident and visitor votes for their favorite of six pieces by using the QR code located on the placard at each sculpture piece. In addition to voting for their choice at each sculpture location, the second QR code will give residents and visitors the opportunity to learn about the artist and their interpretation of their piece. The price of each sculpture is also posted on the placard at each location. This year’s artists represent artists from across the nation, from Maryland, Illinois, Indiana, Oregon and Georgia.

Anyone wishing to purchase one of the sculptures, for personal use or as a donation to the Village of Pentwater, should contact Judy Pazol at jppazol@aol. com with the subject title “sculpture purchase”.

So, as the colors of our landscape begin to change, take advantage of a trip to Pentwater and check out the Sculpture Walk before it ends in mid-October.

President Dean Jessup noted that “Tim has patrolled and protected the boating community both on Pentwater Lake and Lake Michigan. Tim has also guided many adults and youth from our community by leading Boater Safety Courses each year and established the annual Water Safety Day, providing examples of safe water activity and presenting a new life vest to youngsters attending.”

PSA appreciates the ability to work with the Oceana County Sheriff’s Department Marine Division by providing equipment for the service boat and supporting both the Water Safety Day and Boater Safety Classes each year.

“Our community has

benefited from Tim’s dedication to water safety and we wish him suc-

cess in his new role at Shelby Schools.”

This page is brought to you by:

Visit us!

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

Please join the OCH&GS for The 109th Golden Fair in downtown Mears, today! Meet at the Golden Township Hall at 12:45 p.m. for 1 p.m. parade.

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

Forming of the Land of Oceana - part 1

By Caleb Jackson The Oceana Echo Community Columnist

Something that many of us may have learned in school is that the Great Lakes were formed by a retreating glacier during the last ice age. This event obviously had a large impact on the local landscape as well, but what exactly that entails is probably not often taught in high school, especially with regards to our own county. However, there is a very interesting document that goes over that precise matter in much detail. It’s called the “Outline of the Geologic History of Oceana County,” by Helen M. Martin. It was printed in 1957 by the Michigan Department of Conservation, an early department that would later go on to become the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, or the DNR as it is otherwise known.

Before we go into much detail, though, I would like to make a comparison that will be beneficial to all Michiganders. Everybody has seen someone who has gotten a bit carried away with the plow in the wintertime. Instead of simply pushing the snow away and clearing the yard, they dig a bit deep and take up a bunch of dirt and grass with it. Well, what happens? That dirt and grass sit in the snow all winter. Then, when spring comes, the snow melts and you have a small pile of dirt in your front yard. This is, by and large, the same principle that has created the terrain of our own Oceana County, but instead of a plow, imagine a great, big glacier.

Martin tells us that the top layer of our terrain is “a mantle of glacial drift from 400 to 600 feet deep.” What exactly does that mean? That

means that the soil that sits atop our bedrock is bits of rock gravel, sand and clay, that were “broken and eroded from rocks to the northwest, freighted south by the Wisconsin glacier” and “deposited as hills and plains when the glacier melted.” She explains that this is the reason major hills and valleys in Oceana County are oriented from the northeast to the southwest, as the glacier retreated northwestward toward what is now Lake Michigan.

What’s important to understand about the Wisconsin glacier is that it was not in a constant state of retreat. It would stop, sit for a while and melt, depositing glacial drift, and then advance again. These stages of stopping and advancing can be seen in our landscape. The deposited glacial drift is called “ground moraine.” First, the glacier halted and deposited moraine over Greenwood, Otto and Grant townships, creating the plains in that area. Once it melted back to Hesperia, down to the southeast corner of Claybanks, it began to move again. As it moved, it pushed up the ground moraine and created the hills that extend from the northeast to the southwest corner of the county. “Drainage from the glacier spread a layer of sand and gravel outwash over most of the ground moraine in Grant, Otto and the western half of Greenwood township,” Martin wrote, “so that the older ground moraine is now under the outwash plain.” The meltwaters from this created a channel that is now occupied by the White River, and this channel is fed by tributaries that cut channels across the moraine.

Following this, there was another period of stagnation, melting and deposition, causing the front line of the glacier to fall somewhere

from “northwest Colfax township past Hart and Mears to northern Benona Township.” This period would eventually be responsible for the development of the Pentwater River and Stony Creek.

In time, the braided streams on the outwash concentrated into channels and became rivers flowing south to the valley of the White. The headwaters of these streams later reversed their flow (as the glacier disappeared) and became the headwaters of the Pentwater River and Stony Creek. (Helen M. Martin, 1957, p. 7)

So far, we have covered two major episodes of the retreat of the Wisconsin glacier, affecting the formation of the eastern side of the county up to Hart. Next week, we will talk about two more major retreats as well as the formation of some of the lakes and rivers in the area.

Hart High School Class of 1957 gathers for luncheon

The Hart High School class of 1957 met for a class luncheon at the Oceana County Council on Aging Sept. 20. Pictured above, in the front row, from left, are Janice Volpp, Sharlene Hodges Sauser, Barbara Jensen Herremans, Mary Koposky McCann, Mary Jane Fuller Morat and Karen Spencer Longcore; and in the back row, from left, are Bill Volpp, Herb Herrygers, Dave Carlson, Walt Urick, Gordon Merten, Janice Coulier Merten, Pat McDonald, Bob Blackmer and Chuck Brimmer.

• Contributed Photo by Walt Urick

By Sharon Hallack

The Oceana Echo Community Contributor

• The organizers of the Versiti of Michigan blood drive are pleased to announce they exceeded their goal of 15 pints at their September blood drive! Thanks to several new donors, 17 pints were collected! Thanks goes to The Oceana Echo community for stepping up! When asked why people give blood, these were some of the responses given at the Sept. 25 drive: “Because I know there’s a need, and I have a bunch.” “Because people need it.” “Because I want to help others.” “Because I can.” “Because I know people who have had blood transfusions and how important those were for their health and recovery.” “In memory of my father, who donated every chance he could.” “To help in case of accidents or treatments.” “Because I have AB-blood type.” Less than 4 percent of the population has my blood type”.

enjoys being able to give back to the community,” said SSB employee Kayla Dennert. “We know this program will be a benefit to many for years to come.”

• At its Sept. 26 city council meeting, the City of Hart gave approval (three in favor, one opposed and three council members absent) to Resolution 2023-39 for a new Social District application requested by the potential new owners of Hart Pizza. The council also unanimously approved the appointments of Noble Graham-Lattin, East Main Street business owner, to the Hart Economic and Redevelopment Team and Caleb Griffis, resident of East Church Street, to the Hart Tax Increment Finance Authority. In other business, City Manager Rob Splane proposed and asked for feedback regarding the possible creation of a City of Hart Parks & Recreation Director. Hart Congregational UCC Church representatives were also present and asked if the city might be interested in taking over ownership of their church buildings by the end of 2023. The church’s last service will take place Christmas Eve. Several council members and the city manager will tour the facilities at the council’s next regular meeting before coming to any decision.

• Just a reminder that the Oceana County Parks & Recreation Survey is still open. Visit srvy.pro/2WC3UEN to answer a few simple questions about your experiences with Oceana County parks. The Oceana County Parks & Recreation Commission is updating its 5-year recreation plan and is seeking community input. Information collected will help develop goals, objectives and priorities for park management and programming.

• The Village of Rothbury welcomes two new council members, Troy Voorhees and Denise Kurdziel. Voorhees and Kurdziel join councilors Autumn Drake, Jim Fekken, Mike Harris and Dylan Zuniga. The village is also pleased to announce that Kurdziel and Zuniga have recently created a village Facebook page. This social media platform, along with the village website, will be a great way for residents to stay connected and informed of village happenings.

• Saturday, Sept. 30, Merten’s Farmhouse Market hosted 150 guests at their farm for a “Farm to Table” dinner. Guests were seated throughout the garden and farmyard and served a variety of dishes using homegrown ingredients. The menu included smoked cream cheese squash soup, garden salad, slow-roasted pork, smoked chicken and rabbit, roasted vegetables including maple-roasted squash, “Grandpa Eisenlohr’s Baked Beans,” dinner rolls with honey butter, and for dessert “Ladies of Elbridge Peanut Butter Pie,” cookies and cupcakes all washed down with Merten’s Farmhouse Apple Cider punch and coffee. Diners were also treated to music from Silverado, horse-drawn wagon rides around the farm, yard games and animal interactions. “It was a beautiful day,” said co-owner Lindsey Merten. “It was one of those gatherings where strangers came together and left (the event) as part of our family!”

• Spitler Elementary School in Hart is excited to announce that their popular book vending machine will be able to operate for the next three school years thanks to a generous three-year grant from the Shelby State Bank. The book vending machine was originally purchased in 2020 through a Section 35a (5) Additional Instructional Time Grant and was used at the start of the 2020-21 school year.

The $900 per year grant will give more students the opportunity to earn new books. “Children can receive book tokens as part of our PBIS program (Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports),” said teacher Michelle Hansen. “Two students are selected from each class every month by the classroom teacher as the Lil’ Pirate of the Month (38 per month). Students can also earn hearts for following the Lil’ Pirate Code and trade in 10 hearts for a book token.” “The bank

MANY BLESSINGS Mkt

JOB OPENING

CRYSTAL TOWNSHIP CLERK

The Clerk position is open for Crystal Township. Knowledge in accounting, accounts payable, general ledger, payroll, recording and transcription of monthly township board meetings and recordkeeping is necessary, but on-the-job training is available. These duties are most of the monthly responsibilities. Additional responsibilities include certification in and management of official township elections. The Township Clerk is an elected position. The appointee would finish out the term through 2024 and would run for election on the 2024 ballot.

Any township resident interested, please send a resume to Supervisor Lee Hyslop at 1499 E. Hammett Rd., Hart, MI 49420 by Oct. 6, 2023.

Kayla Dennert and Michele Amstutz from Shelby State Bank are pictured with children of SSB employees Brynlee Amstutz, Aiden Dennert and Mason Olmstead, Thursday, Sept. 28.

• Sharon Hallack/Echo

• Contributed Photo by Lindsey Merten

Ongoing

Hart VFW Post 1329

Burger/Chicken/Brat/Ribs Night, first and third Wednesdays from 5-7 p.m., dine-in or carry out.

fall events calendar

October

Share your old Teddy Bears at The Ladder

The next Share Our Stories (SOS) event at The Ladder Community Center in Shelby will feature the theme “A Teddy Bear Picnic” on Tuesday, Oct. 17 at 1:30 p.m. Please note the change in time from evenings to daytime. Several members of the Oceana County Historical & Genealogical Society will bring old teddy bears, including “Ted,” who is 120 years old. All who attend are asked to bring their old teddy bear or borrow one to show. We will share each bear’s interesting life story. Hopefully, someone will have a prestigious, collectible bear (such as a Steiff bear) to share!

SOS is a monthly event that takes place at The Ladder, where people gather and share memories, photos, and other memorabilia from Oceana County. There is no additional cost for registered adult members 18 and older. Please visit theladdercommunitycenter.com to view all our upcoming events. 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 231-259-0211.

The 2023 Ladder Harvest Festival 5K and Fun Run to take place Oct. 7

The Ladder Community Center is hosting the second annual Harvest Festival 5K Run/Walk and 0.5K Fun Run/Walk during the morning of Shelby’s 2023 Harvest Festival Oct. 7. Gather friends, family members, and neighbors for a fun morning of running and walking together. Anyone who signs up with two or more generations in their group, will receive a discounted entry price. Sign up online at theladdercommunitycenter.com/harvest-festival-5k1 or in person at The Ladder Community Center, located at 67 N. State Street in Shelby. Please call (231) 259-0211 for more information.

HartPrize photo contest finalists announced

Sixteen local photographers have been selected as finalists for the Hartprize photo contest, with an exhibit to be revealed on Saturday, Oct. 7 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. during Artwalk.

Out of the 152 entires, 30 submissions from 16 finalists will be on display. Finalists include Allie Landrum, Alyssa Sinclair, Ann Sinclair, Brenda Birkman, Calvin Roskam, Amy Moats, Jennifer Beggs, Kassidy Bowen, Laura Fenton, Melissa Fuehring, Monica Crothers, Paul Erickson, R. Clair Purdy, Terry Frend, Victoria Eilers and Richard Farmer.

The display will be in Pocket Park – located to the north side of Lakeside Family Fitness at 39 S. State St. in Hart. The winner will receive a $250 cash prize. The public will be invited to vote for their favorite submission throughout the month of October.

Oct. 6 - Oceana County Developer Day, Rothbury, 9 a.m.

Oct. 6 - Golden Fair Parade, Mears, 1 p.m.

Oct. 7 - Autumn Country Roads Shop Hop, 10-5 p.m.

Oct. 7, Shelby Fall Fest, downtown Shelby, noon to 6 p.m.

Oct. 7 - 2nd annual ArtWalk & HartPrize, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Oct. 7 - Fall Volunteer Weekend at Charles Mears State Park, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Oct. 8 - Fall Walking Tour at Pentwater Township Cemetery, 1:30 p.m.

Oct. 13 - Ferry Soup Supper, 5-7 p.m.

Pentwater Cemetery Walking Tour this Sunday

Pentwater Township Cemetery will play host to a ‘Fall Walking Tour’ on Sunday, Oct. 8 at 1:30 p.m. The public is welcome to take a tour of the cemetery and learn about cemetery symbolism, the history of the cemetery and enjoy light refreshments. Any questions should be directed to friendsofpentwatertwpcemetery@gmail.com

‘Pumpkin Run’ Party for kids at The Ladder Oct. 14

All children ages 5 to 12 are invited to The Ladder Community Center once a month for Party Club! On Oct. 14, join us for the “Unforgettable Pumpkin Run” party from 1-2:30 p.m. We will have songs, Bible lessons, games, and snacks. Party Club is sponsored by Child Evangelism Fellowship, a Bible-centered ministry serving in every region of the world. All teachers and helpers have been trained and screened to ensure your child’s protection. Parents are welcome to attend. The Ladder is located at 67 N. State Street in Shelby.

Shelby Library Celebrates National Friends Of Libraries Week

SHELBY — Friends of the Shelby Area District Library will be spending the week of October 15 -21, 2023, celebrating its Friends of the Library group as part of the 17th annual celebration of National Friends of Libraries Week.

The Friends of S.A.D.L. were established in 1995 and have raised thousands of dollars for the Shelby Library. Volunteers give their time and talent to assist the group with fundraising efforts that include the annual Celebration of the Trees December Event and a used book sale held every summer.

“This year we are trying something different to commemorate National Friends of the Library Week. Three winners of the Pet Photo Contest will be awarded prizes, including gift certificates from New Era Tri-County Feed, PetSmart, or a pet-themed tote bag of items.” Cindy McKinnon, president of Friends of S.A.D.L. said. “Additionally, our officers and board members will be profiled on the Shelby Library Facebook page this week.”

Other officers of the organization are Vice President Julie McKeen, Secretary Sharon Zoller, Treasurer Kathy Sullivan, and Board members Mary Ann Carey, Paula Inglis, Libby Brouwer, and Mary Ellen Heyde.

Celebration activities include the quarterly meeting at 5 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 19, with special

refreshments to commemorate Friends Week. Plans for the upcoming fundraiser, Celebration of the Trees, will be finalized. Many volunteers are needed for this annual event to create holiday displays for silent auction and assist. Contact Friends president Cindy McKinnon at stony7854@gmail.com or sign up at the meeting.

“Our library is so fortunate to have an enthusiastic and supportive Friends group,” said Library Director Tiffany Haight. “The funds they raise definitely put the icing on the cake. I think most patrons would be surprised to learn how many of the services and programs they enjoy are supported by the Friends.”

Please contact the library at 231-861-4565 or visit in person to learn more about the Friends activities and to find out how to become a member of the Friends. National Friends of Libraries Week is coordinated by United for Libraries, a division of the American Library Association, with approximately 4,000 personal and group members representing hundreds of thousands of library supporters. United for Libraries supports those who govern, promote, advocate, and fundraise for libraries and brings together library trustees, advocates, friends, and foundations into a partnership that creates a powerful force for libraries in the 21st century. For more information, visit www.ala.org/united.

Trunk-or-Treat at TLC

Trinity Lutheran Church in New Era will be hosting a Trunk-or-Treat Saturday, Oct. 28 from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Everyone is welcome to come enjoy games, treats and a free lunch.

Hart VFW

802 S. State Street

SWISS STEAK DINNER

Friday, October 13 from 5-7 p.m.

$10 adults and $6 kids 10 and under ALL ARE WELCOME

All proceeds support our local veterans

All

MIKE’S

Local banker receives state award

SHELBY – Kayla Dennert of Shelby State Bank has been honored as a Rising Star Award winner by the Community Bankers of Michigan.

This award is given to individuals from a Michigan community bank who have made significant contributions to their bank, their community, and the Michigan community banking industry. Dennert was recognized for her many accomplishments in banking and the local communities she serves.

Dennert started her career with Shelby State Bank and quickly ad-

vanced within the organization from Customer Service Representative to Credit Analyst and into her current role as Commercial Lender. She regularly presents at Career Days at area schools along with financial literacy education. She is involved in community organizations such as the Hart Public School Board, Hart Rotary Club, Oceana County College Access Network, Women Who Care of Oceana County and 4-H.

Dennert’s commitment to the bank and community embodies the heart of the Rising Star Award. “Kayla is an integral part of our management team who has contributed in so many ways to our organization and local community, and I look forward to seeing all she will do in the years to come,” said Mishelle Comstock, SSB President and CEO.

Shelby State Bank was established in 1931 and has grown to operate 10 branches in Western Michigan, stretching from Fruitport to Manistee. Each branch offers a wide variety of deposit accounts, consumer loans, residential mortgage lending, and business banking services. For more information about Shelby State Bank, please contact us at (231) 861-2123 or visit www.shelbybank.com for more information.

Tails of Hope

Look at this handsome boy!

Isn’t he a stunning German Shepherd?

He is five years old and loves people. He does not like cats, however. His name, by the way, is Halston. Halston is in

Halston 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.

Hi!It’s

Kayla Dennert

By Sharon Hallack The Oceana Echo Community Contributor

Fall is here, and pumpkins and apples are everywhere! Here are a couple of easy and yummy recipes to try!

Apple Crisp

I got this recipe from my former Hart Middle School co-worker, Karyn Kokx, handed down from her Grandma Kuipers. She brought it to a work potluck one day, and I’ve been making it ever since! Better double it; it’s really good!

Ingredients:

4 cups of apples, peeled and sliced

7 T. margarine (I use butter)

¾ cup flour

1 t. cinnamon

½ cup water

1 cup sugar

Grease an 8-inch square dish. Add sliced apples. Mix water and cinnamon and pour over apples. Mix sugar, flour, and butter until crumbly and spread over apples. Bake at 375 degrees for 35–45 minutes.

Send us your favorite recipes with a little note on how you started making

Pumpkin Cheesecake Pudding

I found and made this recipe for a baby shower one fall, and it received rave reviews!

For the crust:

2 cups of graham cracker crumbs

4 T. melted butter

4 T. sugar

For the filling:

8 oz. softened cream cheese

15 oz. can of pumpkin puree

½ - 1 t. pumpkin pie spice

3.4 oz. box of cheesecake-flavored instant pudding mix

14 oz. can of sweetened condensed milk

12 oz. frozen whipped topping or whipped cream

For the garnish:

Extra graham cracker crumbs, chopped pecans and whipped cream

Beat the cream cheese until it’s light and fluffy (about 3 minutes). Add the pumpkin pie spice and mix until completely combined. Add sweetened condensed milk, followed by the pudding mix and combine. Fold in the whipped topping. Refrigerate for about 30 minutes until the mixture is firmed up. In the meantime, combine crushed graham crackers, melted butter and sugar. Add the crumbs to the bottom of the cups or the dish you want to serve the dessert in, and press down. Add the cheesecake pudding mixture on top of the crumb crust

Living Legacies: The Oceana Center Grange Annual Penny Fair set for next week

By Sharon Hallack The Oceana Echo Community Contributor

The Oceana Center Grange invites the entire community to its 98th annual Penny Fair Saturday, Oct. 14, at 7 p.m. in the historic Grange Hall located at 55 West Scout Road in Hart. The evening will kick off with a short program and include a variety of acts, followed by the traditional produce and baked goods auction upstairs, games for the kids, and a sloppy joe lunch and pie for purchase downstairs. This year’s auction will once again be called by three generations of the McGhan family: Jay, Dave and Ike. Enjoy the neighborhood banter as friends and neighbors compete for fresh and locally-made baked goods, crafts, apple cider, pumpkins or fall garden produce. Quilt raffle tickets will also be available for $1 each or $5 for six. The whole evening is a tradition that hasn’t seen much change since the grange was organized 118 years ago this coming January.

Located at the very “center” of Oceana County, near the corner of 112th Avenue and Scout Road. According to the website Nationalgrange.org, “The National Grange of the Order of Patrons of Husbandry, is a social organization in the United States that encourages families to band together to promote the economic and political well-being of the community and agriculture.”

Part of promoting the economic and political well-being of the community has included staying informed and remaining active on a variety of local and state issues over the years. In addition, the group believes community service and socializing together should be priorities as well. Besides their annual Penny Fair, they’ve been responsible for many fun and memorable social events over the years. Some include their widely attended fiddlers’ jamborees, pony pulls and pig roasts or their community member recognition nights.

The current membership keeps busy with a variety of activities, including the upkeep of the historic watering trough on Polk Road East of Hart, picking up trash on a section of the US-31 highway, hosting their annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade and Celebration, distributing dictionaries to over 300 county third graders in their “Words for Thirds” program, sponsoring the Oceana Grangers 4-H club and providing a partial scholarship for a student at the Michigan School for the Deaf in Flint. Member Char (Merten) Vanderstelt is passionate about mentoring the next generation. She wants them to

learn that working together is both fun and rewarding. “It’s not always about making money, but about serving the community,” she said. She added that whatever someone is passionate about could potentially become a new focus for the group. “We’re a community-based organization who wants to engage our neighborhoods and invest our time to better our community.”

The Oceana Center Grange is proud to be the only grange across the West Michigan counties of Muskegon, Newaygo, Mason and Oceana that is still active. The grange held its first organizational meeting Jan. 16, 1903, when Wilbur F. Taylor called a meeting to be held at the Albert Doolittle farm near 112th Avenue and Scout Road. Records show they named George Hallack as secretary, Will Burr as chaplain and Helen Dyer as secretary at that time. Within two years, the original Grange Hall was built on land donated by Doolittle, using logs donated by the members. According to Grange records, the

stone foundation was built by George Hobby for $48.75 and the hardwood flooring, milled at Gales Pond, was installed at a cost of $2.50. Many of the current Oceana Center Grange members are descendants of its original 41 charter members.

Oceana County once had 17 active granges including Benona Center, Blooming Valley, Elbridge, Ferry, Hart and Hart Juvenile Grange, North Weare, Pomona, Sylvan and Walkerville. And in 1982 there were still three active granges in the county, including Blooming Valley, Elbridge and Oceana Center.

The Grange is not a secret society. Anyone age 14 years and up can join,

become a member and become involved in a variety of ways. Like many organizations, memberships have decreased for a variety of reasons; however, this small but mighty group is continuing to serve our community and would welcome anyone looking for an opportunity to become more involved.

Monthly meetings are open to the public and held the first Monday of every month at 7 p.m. at the Grange Hall. Those wishing to be a part of next Saturday’s program or having other questions about the grange and its programming should contact Gordon Merten at 231-873-4459 or Char Vanderstelt at 231-301-1678.

Some members of the Oceana Center Grange include, back row, from left, Ray Jensen, Phil Carter, Kathy Carter, John Curtis, Gordon Merten and Janice Merten; and front row, from left, Tori (Mussell) Dekkinga, Susan (Merten) Mussell, Char (Merten) Vanderstelt and Pat Jensen. • Sharon Hallack/Echo

Loving Memory of our Family, Friends and Neighbors

Esther Lavon VanNett

July 19, 1922 ~ September 22, 2023

Esther Lavon VanNett, 101, passed away Friday, Sept. 22, 2023, surrounded by her loving family. She was born July 19, 1922, in Shelby Township, the daughter of Frank and Elsie (Green) Skinner.

Esther was married, Dec. 5, 1938, to Raymond VanNett until his passing in 2000. She worked in the finishing department of MISCO, now Howmet. Esther enjoyed dancing, music, putting puzzles together and a big family.

Esther is survived by: her children, Constance “Connie” (William) Ramey, Raymond (Connie) Van Nett; brother, Frank (Bernice) Skinner; many grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren. Esther was a second mother and grandmother to many in the community.

Esther was preceded in death by: her husband, Raymond; daughter, June Duell; sisters, Nedra, Aletha, Lila, Carol and Ruth; brothers, Gladden, Percy, Lawrence, Neal and Wayne.

Visitation will take place at 10 a.m., followed by a Memorial Service at 11 a.m. Oct. 28, 2023, at New Era Reformed Church, 4775 First St., New Era, Michigan 49446, with Pastor Rick Essenberg officiating.

Memorial donations may be made to: Elara Hospice, 4743 W. US 10 Highway, Suite 2, Ludington, Michigan 49431; or The Ladder Community Center, 67 N. State St., Shelby, Michigan 49455.

Harris Funeral Home, in Shelby, is assisting with arrangements. www.harrisfhome.com

Jeanette Esther Wolting

Jeanette Esther Wolting, 99, of New Era, passed away Saturday, Sept. 30, 2023, with her family by her side. She was born Oct. 7, 1923, in Montague, the daughter of Jerry and Florence (Weesies) Sikkenga.

After graduating from Montague High School in 1941, Jeanette attended Muskegon Business College while being employed at the Shaw Walker Company office. She later took the position of payroll clerk at the Agustrane Corporation in Muskegon.

Robert William Field

November 18, 1958 ~ September 30, 2023

Robert William “Bob” Field, 64, passed away peacefully Saturday, Sept. 30, 2023, at the Oceana County Medical Care Facility in Hart, Mich. Bob was born in Shelby Nov. 18, 1958, the son of William and Elizabeth (Eilers) Field.

Bob spent his youth on the Field farm west of Shelby, and attended Shelby schools, where he was a standout football player and where he finished second in state in the 1977 wrestling tournament. After high school, Bob spent time in the construction trades in Houston, Texas, but he soon returned to Oceana County, where he worked as a carpenter and on the fam ily fruit and asparagus farm.

Bob’s career in carpentry started alongside his father as they built homes while Bob was still in high school, and he enjoyed working with many great contractors in Oceana County. He enjoyed taking new hires under his wing, showing them how things were done properly, both in carpentry and in life. Lifelong friendships were made on the job. He especially enjoyed posting pictures of the world from his perspective, sometimes from high in the dunes atop a new home overlooking Lake Michigan, or something as simple as a praying mantis clinging to a shovel handle in the chill of morning.

Bob loved rock and roll, country and the blues. His knowledge of Lynyrd Skynyrd and the Allman Brothers Band was unsurpassed. Bob also loved to read, and he compiled a library of books in his house. Rarely did you leave without a book in your hand when you spent time with Bob. When his nieces were in town, he’d always bring them books that he thought they might enjoy, and his favorite presents were gift certificates to bookstores.

His family and friends were of utmost importance to Bob. Quite simply, when Bob was your friend, you knew you had a friend, indeed. Even as his health failed, Bob continued to make the rounds through his beloved Oceana County, checking in on friends to catch up and share stories.

Bob is survived by his son William (Catherine) Field, his grandchildren Shiloh, Jack and Sofia Field, his brother Ross (Jean Lewis) Field, special nieces Julia Field and Madeline Field, and dear aunts, cousins and innumerable friends, especially Chuck Fohlbrook, Ron Coon and Eva Marie Pranger, who traveled by Bob’s side during his last journey. Bob was preceded in death by his parents, William and Elizabeth Field, and by many cherished aunts, uncles and cousins. The family is thankful for the care provided by Elara Caring Hospice and the staff at the Oceana County Medical Care Facility and SKLD Whitehall.

A memorial service is planned for family and friends at 4 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 7, at Evergreen Cemetery at Stony Lake. Memorials may be directed to the Hart Area Public Library or the Shelby Area District Library.

On Dec. 27, 1945, Jeanette married L. Jay Wolting of New Era. She was a member of New Era Reformed Church. Here she taught Sunday School classes, was a member of the Mary Martha and Helping Hands groups and served as a 4-H leader for many years.

Jeanette is survived by: her children, Wallace (Debbie) Wolting, Beth (Steve) Quigley and Deb (Scott) Dillingham; daughter-in-law, Marcia Jeske; brothers, Jay (Joanne) Sikkenga and Gordon (Chris) Sikkenga; many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Jeanette was preceded in death by: her parents, Jerry and Florence; husband, L. Jay Wolting; son, Joel Wayne Wolting; sisters, Ruth Newmyer, Elaine Smeelink and Elizabeth DeVos; brothers, Elmer Sikkenga, Dale Sikkenga and Wayne Sikkenga.

Funeral services will be conducted at 11 a.m., Saturday, Oct. 7, 2023, at New Era Reformed Church, 4775 First St., New Era, Michigan 49446, with Pastor Ben Oliveira officiating. Visitation took place from 5-7 p.m., Thursday, Oct. 5, 2023, at Harris Funeral Home, 267 N. Michigan Ave., Shelby, Michigan 49445. Burial will take place at 10 a.m., Saturday, Oct. 7, 2023, at the New Era Cemetery.

Memorials may be directed to: New Era Reformed Church, 4775 First St., New Era, Michigan 49446; or the Margaret D. Fuehring Memorial Care Center, 701 E. Main St., Hart, MI 49420.

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

October 7, 1923 ~ September 30, 2023 Obituary

Hailey Marie Mayse

August 6, 1986 ~ September 11, 2023

Hailey Marie Mayse, 37, of Strawn, Texas, formerly of Hart, passed away Monday, Sept. 11, 2023. She was born Aug. 6, 1986, in Shelby, the daughter of Warren Taylor-Sheafor and Lisa Riggs.

Hailey is survived by: her life-long partner, Manuel Lopez; daughters, Jaiden Lopez, Juliana Lopez, and Jailey Lopez; step-son, Jared Lopez; mother, Lisa Riggs; siblings, Kendra Sheafor, Stormie Huddleston, Trad Sheafor, Ronnie Shaefer, and Drew (Asyia) Sheafor; and grandma, Sharon Riggs.

Hailey was preceded in death by: her father, Warren H. Taylor-Sheafor; and husband, Travis J. Mayse.

Funeral services were conducted at 11 a.m., Friday, Sept. 29, 2023, at Beacon Cremation & Funeral Service, King-Hart Chapel, 2370 N. 72nd Ave., Hart, MI 49420, with interment following in Hart cemetery. Visitation was Friday from 10 a.m. until time of services at the funeral home.

Memorial contributions may be made to the family to assist with expenses. Beacon Cremation & Funeral Service, King-Hart Chapel, is in charge of arrangements.

www.beaconfh.com

Information:

We, at The Oceana Echo, offer our deepest condolences for your loss and are here to help you tell others about your loved one’s life and the plans you have made to honor, celebrate and remember them

If you would like to place an obituary with us, please tell your arrangement specialist or email us at theoceanaecho@gmail.com.

• On Oct. 16, 1968, American athletes Tommie Smith and John Carlos sparked controversy at the Mexico City Olympics by giving “Black power” salutes during a victory ceremony after they’d won gold and bronze medals in the 200 meter race.

FROM KING FEATURES WEEKLY SERVICE, 628 Virginia Drive, Orlando, FL 32803 CUSTOMER SERVICE: (800) 708-7311 EXT.

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STRANGE BUT TRUE #12345_20231002 FOR RELEASE OCT. 2, 2023

NOW HERE’S A TIP #12345_20231002

FOR RELEASE OCT. 2, 2023

By JoAnn Derson

By Lucie Winborne

On Oct. 17, 1933, Albert Einstein arrived in the United States as a refugee from Nazi Germany after renouncing his German citizenship. He had been barred from working at any universities in his homeland but would become a professor of theoretical physics at Princeton University.

On Oct. 18, 1648, in response to complaints of shoddy workmanship performed by some members of their trade, the Boston Company of Shoemakers was authorized to form a guild to set a quality standard and protect their interests, resulting in the creation of the first American labor organization on record.

On Oct. 19, 1990, Kevin Costner’s Western epic “Dances with Wolves” had its world premiere in Washington, D.C. The actor put up $3 million of his own money to complete the film and was made an honorary member of the Sioux Nation after its release.

On Oct. 20, 1990, a six-member jury in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, acquitted three members of the rap group 2 Live Crew of violating obscenity laws, stemming from their adults-only concert at a nightclub in nearby Hollywood the previous June. The prosecution’s only evidence was two garbled tape recordings of the event made by undercover deputies.

On Oct. 21, 1805, a British fleet commanded by Admiral Horatio Nelson defeated a French-Spanish fleet in the Battle of Trafalgar. He was fatally felled by a bullet from an enemy sharpshooter that tore through his chest and lodged in his spine, Nelson lived long enough to follow the battle’s progress and realize his own victory.

On Oct. 22, 1979, the U.S. government allowed the deposed Shah of Iran to travel to New York for medical treatment of his cancer. In response, the Ayatollah Khomeini incited Iranian militants to attack the U.S., and the American Embassy in Tehran was overrun on Nov. 4, with 66 employees taken as hostages.

© 2023 King Features Synd., Inc.

• You can use self-stick notes to organize your errands. Use a note for each location, with instructions or shopping lists on each. Then put the notes in order: e.g., drop kids off at Grandma’s, shoe store, hardware store, grocery store, home, etc. You will be less likely to forget a stop, and you can make the best use of your time and gas!

• Two tips for sewing buttons: First, for pants buttons, use unwaxed dental floss. It’s incredibly strong and can take a lot of abuse. Second, slip a pin between the button and the fabric before sewing on. When you’re finished, remove the pin. The button has some room behind it, and it will last longer.

• “This is a tip for us singletons. I love whipped topping on my hot chocolate, but it doesn’t always last in my fridge. I buy a tub of it, and spoon it into mug-size dollops on a cookie sheet lined with wax paper. When the sheet is full, I freeze them. They can be peeled off easily and slipped in a container or plastic bag. When I make my hot chocolate, I plop one in straight from the freezer. It takes only minutes to soften and melt. And it’s delicious!” — F.D. in Michigan

• “If you cut the entire top and one of the top corners off a cereal box, then tape the bottom closed, it’s almost the same as the magazine holders they sell in stores. I covered mine with fancy paper. I keep it in my kitchen for cooking magazines.” — R.R. in Indiana

• Gifts a school-age kid can make: Bookmarks! Cut strips of cardstock into bookmark lengths. Have your child decorate one side and write a nice message on the other. Laminate if possible. Great gift from your child.

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

© 2023 King Features Synd., Inc.

By Lucie Winborne

• If you want to become a police officer in Norway, you’ll need a B.A. from the Police University College. The program includes theoretical studies in criminal law, ethics and social sciences, plus a year of practical field training.

• Chloroform was once used in the treatment of asthma, cholera and gonorrhea, not to mention as a sweetener in medicines.

• Folks around the world really do love their soda — to the tune of about 6,700 cans per second, or enough to wrap around the earth every 17 hours. Be sure to recycle!

• International animal rights organization PETA asked musical duo the Pet Shop Boys to change their name to Rescue Shelter Boys. (Obviously, they refused.)

• During a Bulls vs. Jazz game in 1987, after basketball legend Michael Jordan dunked over John Stockton, a 6 foot, 1 inch guard, an upset fan yelled at him to “pick on someone your own size.” In response, Jordan next dunked over the 6 foot, 11 inch Mel Turpin, turned to his heckler, and asked, “Was he big enough?”

• Slave ants capture ants from other colonies to increase their workforce.

• If you measure it in terms of rainfall, a hurricane releases the force of 10,000 atomic bombs over an area about 413 miles wide.

• The prevalence of syphilis in the 19th century led to a sharp increase in demand for sunglasses, as the disease causes intense sensitivity to light if left untreated.

• Thousands of years ago, keys were made from wood.

• During the “I smell a rat” scene in the Martin Scorsese flick “The Departed,” Jack Nicholson decided things didn’t feel quite intense enough, so he improvised by pulling a real gun on co-star Leonardo DiCaprio. ***

Thought for the Day: “I attribute my success to this: I never gave or took any excuse.” — Florence Nightingale © 2023 King Features Synd., Inc.

Weekly Rundown: Hart pummels MCC in statement victory, Shelby scores second win

By: Brendan Samuels The Oceana Echo Sports Editor

Week six of high school football in West Michigan brought us some truly impressive performances from Oceana County’s three teams.

On Friday, Sept. 29 I took my camera to the sidelines in Hart for the Pirates’ 2023 homecoming celebration. While the marching band was fun to watch and seeing Lauryn Greiner and Tyler VanderZanden get crowned queen and king brought applause from the crowd, nothing compared to what I saw on the field.

Hart coasted to a 30-8 win over West Michigan Conference (WMC) Rivers Division opponent Mason County Central (MCC). The Pirates have enjoyed a successful season that’s left them pretty much unscathed. That changed against the Spartans, but more on that in a bit.

Shelby recorded their second win of the year against Holton and while the Red Devils are a program in flux, the Tigers’ effort was historic. The last time Shelby scored that many points in a single game was 2014 in a 57-0 blowout over Hart.

Hesperia was the only team that didn’t come out with a win in week six. The Panthers’ offense has struggled this season, only scoring more than once in its season opening win over Muskegon Heights Academy. That continued against Ravenna in a 35-7 loss.

As always, a deeper dive into each of these contests is in store. So, let’s get crackin’:

Hart vs. MCC

Final score: Hart 30, MCC 8

HART – I’ve been in attendance for four of Hart’s six games this season and I’m not sure any of those games were as impressive as the 30-8 beating they put down on MCC.

As it has all year, the game came down to winning at the line of scrimmage. Hart did that on both sides of the ball, asserting their dominance in the run game and forcing the Spartans to rely on the pass game to make plays.

“We won the game at the line of scrimmage,” Hart head coach Joe Tanis said. “We’ve been building our program to be a tough, physical football team.”

The first quarter moved at a snail’s pace with neither team able to turn a drive into points. MCC took control of the ball first, holding possession for three minutes before Hart’s defense forced them off the field. The Pirates’ offense experienced the same fate on their first chance with the ball, though they did drive deep into Spartan territory before giving the ball back.

In the second quarter, there was only one thing that could have described what happened on the field – from the great Ron Burgundy, “that escalated quickly.”

With MCC in possession of the ball to start that frame, Hart’s defense stood up in a big way. Senior Connor Edwards stepped in front of a pass with the Spartans driving to give the Pirates possession on their own 35-yard line.

Just a few plays later, Hart’s Eman Hertzler provided the offense with a major spark when he ripped off a 56yard run. With the ball inside MCC’s 10-yard line, the Pirates turned to Edwards on a quarterback draw that ended with points.

The Spartans answered Hart’s touchdown with one of their own on the very next drive and with both teams converting on two-point conversion attempts, the score sat at an 8-8 tie. From there, the game belonged to the Pirates.

Hart senior Joseluis Andaverde – not wanting to be outdone by Hertzler’s big play on the drive before –blasted off on a 48-yard run. Once again, the Pirates were set up just outside of the goal line. Fittingly, Andaverde capped off the drive with a 3-yard touchdown run and a two-point conversion on a pass to Chase Gale.

“We feel like (Andaverde) can go in there and battle and keep fighting. He can break a play at any time,” Ta-

nis said. “He’s a special kid and player and an emotional leader for our team too.”

The second turnover forced by Hart’s defense came on the Spartans’ next offensive series. Senior Joaquin Flores fell on an MCC fumble to give Hart the ball back near midfield.

Football: Week Six

continued on page 17

Hart’s Eman Hertzler makes a jump cut toward the middle of the field. Hertzler was key on some explosive plays that set Hart up to score in a 30-8 win over MCC. • Brendan Samuels/Echo

Shelby likely to retain WMC ‘Title Town’ moniker for 2023 volleyball season

By: Brendan Samuels

The Oceana Echo

Sports Editor

SHELBY – Ever since the West Michigan Conference (WMC) realigned, volleyball in the Rivers Division has been ruled by two teams – Shelby and North Muskegon. Those two teams met on Tuesday, Oct. 3 with the likelihood of a conference title on the line for each.

For the last two years, a heated rivalry between the Tigers and Norsemen has been brewing. After all, the stakes in the 2023 matchup was a reflection of last year’s matchup as well. The two teams have been at the top of the conference in consecutive seasons.

“As soon as (North Muskegon) made the move to the Rivers, it’s been the two of us trying to battle these things out,” Shelby head coach Tom Weirich said. ”They’re a good team and they played us tough. The atmosphere here tonight was awesome and they showed up big tonight.”

As competitive as the matchup has been, Shelby took care of North Muskegon, winning 3-0.

The first set was Shelby’s most dominant victory as they came out on top 25-16. That final score didn’t tell the whole tale however. North Muskegon had the early advantage on the Tigers, jumping out to a 4-0 lead.

Both Shelby and North Muskegon traded leads from there. Then, the Tigers shot out to a 14-9 lead that helped distance them enough to take the first set win.

Set number two was nearly an identical rendition of the first. Once again, the Norsemen jumped out to a 4-0 lead, just to have Shelby crawl back to even things up at 9-9. The Tigers took that momentum and compiled a lead that their opponent wasn’t able to keep pace with, winning 25-19.

Those momentum swings in the first two sets were courtesy of junior Navea Gauthier. It wasn’t Gauthier’s offensive attacks from the front row that did it, but her efforts at the service line.

“I almost feel like teams see (Navea) go to the back row and they take a sigh of relief because they got her through the front row and it was close. But then she goes back

Shelby Volleyball

continued on page 17

Shelby’s Navea Gauthier rises for an attack from the outside. • Brendan Samuels/Echo

HART • HESPERIA • PENTWATER • SHELBY • WALKERVILLE

Adversity struck in droves for Hart at that point. Keeping the ball on the ground, Andaverde took a carry to start the drive. Shortly after that play ended, Andaverde hobbled off the field, favoring his ankle. Hertzler did the exact same thing on the very next play.

Without their top two weapons in the run game, Hart had to find a different way to move the ball. Edwards’ arm was the answer. Connecting with Gale, the Pirates came away with a touchdown on the very next play with a 55-yard catch and run.

“We felt like we had a play where we could get Chase Gale wide open and we got it,” Tanis said. “To see him catch it was awesome because he’d had a couple of drops the last few games and his confidence was a little shook. For him to go out there with a huge crowd tonight and make that play – he took it right over and swung momentum for us.”

With a 22-8 lead coming out of halftime, both defenses stood tall in the third quarter. That resulted in no points being scored in that frame and four turnovers on downs – two for each team.

Then, 16 seconds into the fourth quarter, Edwards took another quarterback draw to the endzone. This time, he danced his way there from 51 yards out to put Hart on top 28-8.

Hart’s defense made the rest of the plays on the night. First, Edwards snagged a second interception on the night, marking his fifth of the year. Then, Adrian Lara gave Hart its final points of the night, recording a safety to bring the final score to 30-8.

“We’ve been very lucky with Joseluis kicking for us. We’ve pinned probably three punts inside the three-yard line this year,” Tanis said. “That turned into two points for us on the next play. It was a big deal for us to kick it, sprint down there and keep it out of the endzone.”

A big night for Hart was highlighted by Andaverde on the ground. With 20 carries for 145 yards and a touchdown, Andaverde went over 1,000 rushing yards on the season. Behind him was Edwards with 12 carries for 77 yards and two touchdowns to go along with one passing touchdown. Hertzler also added 76 yards on four touches.

Austin Martinez and Flores led Hart’s defense with 9 tackles each while Ty Thomas had seven tackles and a sack. Gale also recorded two sacks.

The Pirates now sit at 5-1 overall and 2-1 in the WMC Rivers. With three games left, it’s becoming more and more realistic that postseason football is in the cards. Hart will travel to Holton on Friday, Oct. 6 for a meeting with the Red Devils.

Hesperia vs. Ravenna

Finalscore:Ravenna35,Hesperia7

Hesperia did not have its best outing when they hosted Ravenna last week, coming away with a loss in a 35-7 contest.

The Panthers had a successful night running the ball, led by Skyler Stalbaum with 96 yards on 13 carries. Brock Bolles also ran for 69 yards on 11 carries.

Throwing the ball wasn’t Hesperia’s strength however. Bolles dropped back 12 times, completing six of those attempts for just 27 yards while throwing an interception in the process.

Defensively, the Panthers were led by Stalbaum who had a season-high 16 tackles. Posting seven tackles each were Thor Klaus and Michael Fenton, while Fisher Spencer had six.

The Panthers fell to 1-5 with the loss and are still in search of their first WMC Rivers win. They’ll hope that happens when they host MCC on Friday, Oct. 6.

Shelby vs. Holton Finalscore:Shelby48,Holton6

Just like they did in 2022, Shelby defeated Hesperia and Holton back-to-back to mount a win streak. With a 48-6 win over the Red Devils last week, they posted the most points scored in a game since 2014.

AJ Melchor was a big part of that, returning to early season form on the ground with 120 yards and two touchdowns on 11 carries. Senior quarterback Lalo Garcia was 5-for-13 through the air for 71 yards and a touchdown to go along with 10 carries and 107 yards and two touchdowns on the ground.

Complementing the Tigers’ stars on offense were Isaac Garcia with 41 rushing yards and a touchdown, Treyjin Waller with three catches for 37 yards and Phillip Hayes with a receiving touchdown.

The Tigers’ defense was just as impressive as their offense, allowing just six points from Holton’s offense. That was due to great efforts from guys like Ivan Fessenden

who put up 14 tackles and a fumble recovery. Joining him was Hayes with 11 tackles and an interception, Chase Mero with 11 tackles and Nick Cano with nine. Shelby is now 2-4 on the year overall with the win and 2-2 in the WMC Rivers. The Tigers have a tough test this Friday when they host an opponent from the WMC Lakes in Manistee.

Football: Week Six Shelby Volleyball

there and burns them for three to four aces,” Weirich said. “She sees the game differently from everyone else and she has the mindset and skill set to back it up.”

The third and final set of the night showed something different that wasn’t displayed in the first. Shelby vaulted themselves to an early 8-3 lead. They held onto that lead for the entirety of the set, coming away with a 25-19 win.

Gauthier was the leader for the Tigers as always, adding 30 kills, 16 digs and eight aces to her season totals. Audrey Horton had 32 assists to set up her teammates, while Hannah Frees led the defense from her libero spot with 16 digs.

The win kept Shelby undefeated in the WMC Rivers at 5-0 and 19-11 overall. The Tigers will be back in action on Saturday, Oct. 7 for weekend tournament action on their home court.

“We put (the conference title banner) up there last year and that’s the first one since ‘99,” Weirich said. “This is where you start the legacy of putting those things up there. We’re gonna see everyone’s best and teams are gunning for us. We know we have to keep performing every single night.”

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Brendan’s Players to Watch

OFFENSE: Austin Martinez - RB

Andaverde is the lead horse, but Martinez should get some looks with Hertzler likely to miss time with an ankle injury. He should be No. 2 in the backfield.

DEFENSE: Chase Gale - DL

Gale continues to make big play after big play for the Hart defense. He has a nack for getting to the quarterback and I expect that to continue against Holton.

OFFENSE: Trevor Fitzgerald - OL

Shelby had a huge game on the ground against Holton. That’s credit to guys like Fitzgerald blocking. If the Tigers keep running well, it’ll be partially thanks to him.

DEFENSE: Chase Mero - LB

Mero had a career night against Holton, posting 11 tackles. The Tigers will need to rely on him more against a tough Manistee team on Friday night.

Hart Shelby Hesperia

OFFENSE: Brock Bolles - QB

Bolles has had a rough go of it so far this season. Part of that is he wasn’t the starter heading into the season. I’m predicting a breakout for him this week.

DEFENSE: Fisher Spencer - LB

Spencer transferred to Hesperia from Fremont last year and has done well in his first year on a new team. Heavily involved last week, Spencer should do the same again this week.

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(Top) Hart’s Joseluis Andaverde fights through a tackle attempt from an MCC defender. (Bottom) Hart’s Connor Edwards signals touchdown after he punched in a short yardage score. • Brendan Samuels/ECHO

(Left) Shelby libero Hannah Frees prepares to receive a serve from North Muskegon. (Right) Shelby’s Brylee Friedman prepares to launch a ball above her head at the service line. • Brendan Samuels/ECHO

Tigers score conference win, shut out rival Hart

By: Brendan Samuels The Oceana Echo Sports Editor

HART – Shelby and Hart boys soccer are two teams at very different stages of development. That showed on Monday, Oct. 2 when the Tigers traveled to Hart and shut out their opponent, 4-0.

Hart is a team in the midst of a small rebuild. With only one senior on their roster, they’ve had to rely on younger athletes to fill out their starting lineup. Meanwhile, Shelby is loaded with veteran leadership on a team that’s had a few years to mesh together.

“In the first half, we were attacking. Our leaders, especially the seniors, gave us some good opportunities to score,” Shelby head coach Jairo Coronado said. “We dominated and made great things happen all game.”

After dropping four straight games heading into its matchup with Hart, three of those against conference opponents, Shelby was hoping to rebound. Facing a team without a West Michigan Conference (WMC) win like the Pirates proved to be beneficial.

The Pirates inexperienced roster wasn’t able to find cracks in Shelby’s midfield, a big reason why the Tigers dominated early. Shelby won initial battles in that midfield area, which opened up passes in Hart’s defensive third of the field.

Shelby senior Mauricio Castillo was the leader in that effort at midfield. Serving as a captain for the Tigers, his leadership was key in directing traffic and finding his teammates for scoring opportunities.

Castillo scored Shelby’s first goal of the evening after converting on a series of passes from Wyatt Dickman and Ignacio “Nacho” Ortiz. That came six minutes into the

first half to put the Tigers up 1-0.

11 minutes later, Castillo was the facilitator of Shelby’s second goal. After earning a free kick opportunity from outside Hart’s box, Castillo placed a ball at the feet of Ortiz, allowing him to find a shot and extend the lead.

“Years ago when I pulled (Mauricio) up as a freshman, I believed he was going to be one of the best players Shelby has ever had,” Coronado said. “He’s proving himself as one of the greats. Whatever we ask of him, he listens and makes it happen.”

With a 2-0 lead at halftime, Shelby was looking good. Though the offense shined, the Tiger’s defense was particularly impressive, limiting the Pirates’ shots on goal.

Hart found a bit more fight in the second half as they began to attack Shelby with more aggression. While it didn’t lead to any goals, it allowed the Pirates to slow Shelby’s attack for a short time in the second half.

The Tigers countered that halfway through the second half when Alan Arreola netted a shot with 23 minutes remaining in the contest. Castillo followed that up with his second goal of the game, bombing a free kick opportunity past Hart’s keeper Miguel Escamilla.

Hart fell to 5-11-2 overall and 0-8-1 in the WMC with the loss. The Pirates will travel to Howard City to take on Tri County on Monday, Oct. 9. Then they’ll look to make noise in the district tournament against Fremont on Wednesday, Oct. 11.

Shelby improved to 7-7-1 overall with the win and now sit at 4-5 in the WMC. With the district tournament kicking off next week, Shelby will hope the win over Hart catapults them into a strong outing when they take on Montague on Wednesday, Oct. 11.

(Top) Shelby’s Mauricio Castillo battles through Hart’s Desse Rodriguez for a clear shot at the net. (Bottom) Hart keeper Escamilla watches a ball sail past his outstretched hand on an attempt to save a goal. • Brendan Samuels/ECHO