The Oceana Echo - Volume 2, Issue 44, March 28, 2025 by theoceanaecho

Thank you to this

Under the channel and down the road, Pentwater taps new water source

By AnnaMae Bush

The Oceana Echo Community Correspondent

Finding a new source of clean groundwater for the Village of Pentwater and establishing a pipeline to adequately distribute the supply has been a lengthy, challenging process. The current groundwater supply requires treatment for arsenic, which sparked the search for a new groundwater supply with cleaner water.

After two years, great progress has been made, and the end is in sight… literally. Project completion is expected by the normal end of the construction season this year, which is Nov. 15, 2025. The civil engineering firm of Fleis and Vandenbrink designed the new system.

Residents on Chester Street received a March 7 notice from the village that read:

“Construction on Chester Road for installation of a new 12-inch transmission water main is scheduled to begin on March 17. The project will start near the intersection of Chester Road and Longbridge Road and work north along Chester Road and will end at the cul-de-

sac of Chester Road. Project dates and timelines are all weather permitting.”

On March 19, Project Manager Peter Tierney, P.E., of Fleis and Vandenbrink, reported that seasonal load limits on the roads have delayed the installation work on Chester until March 31.

“The project work has been divided among three contractors,” Tierney explained. “Cole Inc. was contracted to build the new wellhouse on Ridge Road.”

Five new wellheads were dug on property south of Longbridge, across from the home located at 6652 Ridge. Trees were cleared, and pipe sections were stocked there. Utility flag markers were placed from the Ridge location all the way

down Chester Street to the channel. Three of the five wells were selected to contribute to the new water supply.

Tierney continued, “Hallack Contracting was contracted to install a new transmission water main from the new wellhouse to the existing distribution system on the north side of the Pentwater Channel. Their contract also will replace various old and undersized water mains throughout the village… A third contract went to Gustafson HDD LLC to replace lead service water lines throughout the village that are not included in Hallack’s work. Any galvanized or lead water lines will be replaced from the water main to the houses.”

Hallack stationed spe-

it has come under the channel from the north side. Above, equipment and pipes have been stored on Chester Street, north of Longbridge Road. •

cial boring equipment on the north side of the channel and buried a pipeline from the current village water system at the corner of Green and Bridge Streets to the channel. Then they drove the pipeline under the channel and brought it back to the surface on Chester Street, south of the cul-de-sac. (see photo).

What an engineering feat! Just ask Ed Czarniac, who lives on Railroad Avenue and walks his dog to the channel nearly every day. “You can learn a lot walking your dog,” he chuckles. He caught the boring action in process and asked several questions. “They buried the pipeline under the channel bottom, measuring 58 feet from the top of the seawall at its deepest point. The boring tool had a GPS chip on the end and a paddle that could be manipulated left, right,

Paul Erickson named Hart Rotary ‘Citizen of the Year’

Paul Erickson of Crystal Township was named Citizen of the Year for 2024 by the Hart Rotary Club. This honor is annually conferred by the Hart Rotary Club on a non-Rotarian who has made a significant contribution to the betterment of the Hart area. Paul was honored for his volunteerism as president of the Oceana County Fair Board and the Oceana County Historical & Genealogical Society. Paul was instrumental in establishing the Oceana Community Foundation (OCF) as an affiliate of the Muskegon Community Foundation and served as a charter member of OCF. In addition, Paul is the District 4 representative on the Oceana County Board of Commissioners, the owner of Mears auto body repair shop PM Collision and president of the Echo Publishing Inc. board of directors.

down or up to change the direction of the bore.”

Hallack has additional equipment and more pipe sections stored on Chester just north of Longbridge across from 6824 Chester. Hallack will connect the wells with the exposed pipe end on Chester near the channel. Asked how many homes will be supplied by the new water system, Tierney responded, “The extended water main on Ridge Road, Chester Street, 3rd Avenue and Sands Street could add up to 85 existing houses to the system (currently serving more than 900). The water system will be able to serve additional homes as they are built.”

Although all three contracts are expected to be fulfilled by Nov. 15, Tierney clarified, “As each street is completed, water service will be turned on, so that will be ongoing.”

Funding the project has also been a challenge. Former Village Manager Chris Brown began seeking funding in 2022. Tierney shared, “Between all three contracts, the construction cost is approximately $5.8 million. [Funding includes] roughly $1.8 million in the form of an American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Grant, and another $400,000 in the form of a forgivable loan. The remaining costs are funded with an EGLE Drinking Water Revolving Fund low-interest loan ($3.77 million) and a Series A Revenue Bond of $1.5 million.”

Another factor of this project, is that many homes on the south side of the channel have individual wells. The Pentwater Village Council is still discussing which residents will be permitted to stay on the wells they already have.

Shelby Area District Library receives national grant

Shelby Area District Library has been selected as one of 300 libraries to participate in round three of Libraries Transforming Communities: Accessible Small and Rural Communities, an American Library Association (ALA) initiative that provides community engagement and accessibility resources to small and rural libraries to help them better serve people with disabilities.

The competitive award comes with a $10,000 grant that will help the library improve accessibility to the facility with automatic door operators installed at the library’s north entrance.

As part of the grant, Shelby Area District Library staff will take an online course in how to lead conversations, a skill vital to library work today. Staff will then host a conversation with residents about the importance of accessibility.

If anyone is interested in getting involved or taking part in the conversation, please contact Tiffany Haight at 231-861-4565 or tifhaight@shelbylibrary.org.

Since 2014, ALA’s Libraries Transforming Communities initiative has re-imagined the role libraries play in supporting communities. Libraries of all types have utilized free dialogue and deliberation training and resources to lead community and campus forums; take part in anti-violence activities; provide a space for residents to come together and discuss challenging topics; and have productive conversations with civic leaders, library trustees and staff.

Walter Urick, Paul Erickson and Stephaine Moore

The exposed end of the watermain can be seen at left at the end of Chester Street, after

AnnaMae Bush/Echo

Many honored at recent Agricultural and Natural Resources banquet

By Stacia Erickson, The Oceana Echo Community Correspondent

Oceana Conservation District, the Oceana County Farm Bureau, Country Dairy and MSU Extension hosted this year’s Agricultural and Natural Resources Banquet Thursday, March 20 at the West Michigan Research Station in Hart.

New Conservation District Manager Laura Ackerman greeted guests as they joined together for a social hour sponsored by Farm Bureau Insurance-Klotz Agency, followed by dinner catered by Dave’s Kountry Kitchen. Reports were given by Oceana Conservation District, Oceana County Farm Bureau, the AgBio Research Station and MSU Extension. Annual awards and door prizes were also given.

Frank and Teresa Doll earned “Volunteers of the Year” for 2024. The Dolls were noted as giving of their time, talent and treasure, in particular the construction of a lovely new “mud kitchen” in the Doolittle County Park and Gales Pond Knee-high Naturalists program!

Keynote speaker for the event was Senior Conservation and Regulatory Relations Specialist Laura Campbell of Michigan Farm Bureau. Campbell’s focus was on being good stewards of the gifts we’ve been given in our land, air and water, promoting an understanding of environmental regulations in particular those affecting local farms, as well as of water and voluntary conservation practices.

Despite the seriousness of cited facts and figures, the evening held an air of celebration as a full house watched awards presented. The 2024 MAEAP Award (Michigan Agriculture Environmental Assurance Program) recipient was Lakeside Agri LLC, a farmstead/cropping operation in Grant Township. The newly awarded MAEAP farm has grown from its original 76 acres to 140 acres and now grows seven different types of blueberries, including both early

and late varieties. The farm implements conservation practices such as continuing to plant new windbreaks, grass buffers around water drains running through the property and, in addition to drip irrigation, mulching around the blueberries to conserve water, just to name a few.

Additional establishments earned MAEAP verification this past year as promoters of stewardship and protecting the environment, including Grand Alpaca Co. of Claybanks Township, Hyma’s Hideaway Ranch of Elbridge Township and Memorial Nature Preserve of Benona Township. Re-verifications this year included: Art’s Farm of Weare, Benona Chestnuts of Benona, Clarence Chase Farm of Benona, DeRuiter Farms of Hart and Elbridge, Hiddema Farm of Shelby, Palmer Orchards of Hart, R&J Bush Farms of Shelby, Robert Bush Farms of Shelby, Snider Farms Airport View and Home Farm of Hart, and Stephens Farm of Colfax.

“Conservationists of the Year” for 2024 was earned by Rabe Orchards. The Benona Township farming operation is where three generations, to date, have practiced conservation in their farming practices. Three Rabe brothers—David, Chris and Raymond—took the stage to receive their award for observing environmental regulations affecting farming operations in addition to helping preserve Oceana’s many natural resources.

Much to the audience’s delight was the highly anticipated disclosure of the “2025 Friend of the Oceana Agricultural Industry” honor. This year’s accolade was bestowed upon Earl and Linda Peterson for their “Lifetime of support and service to the farmers of Oceana County.” Some of the couple’s many positive attributes were cited by the presenter, such as the high quality of the operation and its products, listening to customers, being the highest employer in Oceana County, playing a key role in the fruit industry, and, of course, being conservationists! The Petersons, thanking their friends of Oceana for the award, were able to join the presentation virtually while on vacation, but had asked Earl’s brother, Paul Erickson, to accept the award on their behalf. Erickson shared a brief family history of how Peterson Farms began and what some of the various photos on the walls around the banquet hall depicted and thanked the beaming couple “for everything you’ve done for Oceana County.“ He ended the acceptance speech with “I sure am proud of you!”

PUBLIC NOTICE

WEARE TOWNSHIP BUDGET PUBLIC HEARING

The Weare Township Board will hold a public hearing on the proposed township budget for Fiscal Year (2025-2026) at the Weare Township Hall on Monday, March 31 2025 at 6:00 PM.

The property tax millage rate proposed to be levied to support the proposed budget will be a subject of this hearing. A copy of the budget is available for public inspection at 6506 N Oceana Drive Hart, MI 49420 Weare Township Hall. In addition the board will also consider adopting a Moratorium to establish an ordinance for large scale or industrial scale solar developments.

Melanie Sayles Weare Township Clerk

JOB OPENING

Golden Township will be hiring a Zoning Official for the Township. The person will be in charge of all aspects of the Golden Township Zoning Ordinance, issuing permits, preparing for and attending Planning Commission meetings, Zoning Board of Appeals, etc. Office hours will be Monday, Wednesday and Friday, 8:30-2:30. For a more detailed job description, contact Golden Township at

or 231-873-4413.

Paul Erickson accepts the Friend of the Oceana Agricultural Industry award on behalf of Earl and Linda Peterson. • Stacia Erickson/Echo

Above, from left, Conservationists of the Year Rabe Orchards represented by brothers, Chris, David and Raymond Rabe; MAEAP Award Recipients Dean and Robyn Twiss and Volunteers of the Year Teresa and Frank Doll. Below, a number of MAEAP-verified operations present, as well as a few board members and staff joined together for a 2025 banquet photo.• Stacia Erickson/Echo

This page is brought to you by:

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

Visit us! 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

Prominent Native Americans in Oceana’s early days

By Caleb Jackson

The Oceana Echo Community Columnist

Last week we discussed several of the Native Americans who left their mark on the history of our county.

This week, we have Chief Cobmoo-sa. As previously mentioned, his name is often translated as Great or Grand Walker, and this is often attributed to his “manner of walking” or sometimes because he is said to have made the journey from Grand Rapids up to Elbridge on foot.

One word consistently used in accounts of Cob-moo-sa is “majestic,” and he is also said to have been quite tall. Though Cob-moo-sa was instrumental in negotiating the treaties that brought his shattered bands to Oceana, he found it difficult to leave his ancestral homeland and lingered sometime behind his people. And unlike the other prominent Native Americans we discussed, Cob-moo-sa never made the conversion to Christianity, instead maintaining his own traditions to the very end.

Page’s history says, “It is true he received the last rites of the Catholic Church before death, but this was when he was in his dotage.”

They then also preserve a speech,

which he supposedly uttered to a man named Mr. Campau: “I am an Indian, and can be nothing else. I wish my people and my children to be civilized. I know that your ways are superior to ours, and that our people must adopt them or die. But I cannot change; the young can adopt new ways, but the old cannot. I shall soon pass away, living and dying an Indian. You can bend the young trees, but not the old oak.”

Cob-moo-sa died of a heart attack in Elbridge Township at the age of 98, in 1866. There is even a plaque commemorating him on the southwest corner of Taylor Road and 144th Av-

Shelby and New Era Chambers announce merger

Both the Shelby Area and the New Era Chambers of Commerce are pleased to announce they have recently merged! Following a survey of both chambers in February, the idea brought strong support, with 86 percent of respondents voting in favor of the move. Based on that feedback, both chambers held separate meetings and each voted unanimously to merge.

The newly combined chamber will form a new board with two members from each organization. Kim Merten and Tiffany Haight from the Shelby Area Chamber and Michele Amstutz and Melissa Flanigan from the New Era Chamber.

The new chamber has sent a follow-up survey to members asking for name suggestions for the now-combined organization. Every chamber member’s input is invaluable and the board encourages all members to participate. Both chambers invite all members to attend their next monthly meeting to be held Monday April 7, at noon at The Avenue in downtown New Era to learn more as they begin this new and important partnership!

Please email Kim Merten at KMerten@petersonfarmsinc.com with questions.

enue. His cabin still stands as a part of the Hart Historic District and can even be toured by visitors.

The end of Cob-moo-sa’s life seems to have motivated a rather moving poem, which laments not only the passing of this noted Indian Chief, but also the end of an era for his people.

My step is the tread of a warrior no more;

The days of my pride and my glory are o’er….

The forests have fallen, the land is sold;

Our birthright has gone for the Christian’s gold…

The above is a small snippet from the poem. If you are interested in the Native American presence in Oceana, or the histories of Elbridge and Crystal, or even if you just want to read the rest of the poem, I recommend visiting the Oceana County Historical & Genealogical Society. They have a small book for sale called the “Bicentennial Collection of Walkerville Area,” which gathers much of that information in one place.

Finally, in another writing from July 15, 1931, Richard E. Southwick of Hart chronicled how Cob-moo-sa has been remembered: “On the corner, by the Cob-moo-sa schoolhouse built in 1860 by the U.S. Government

PART TWO

for the Indians, under large maple trees, stands a beautiful monument erected by the D.A.R. of Ionia and the people of this neighborhood. It was unveiled June 26, 1927, by two great-great-granddaughters of Cobmoo-sa, witnessed by an audience of about 800 Indians and white people, who enjoyed a picnic dinner and a splendid program. Many of Cob-moosa’s descendants were there and took part in the program , the last number of which was a song in Indian language, ‘The End of a Perfect Day,’ by four of his great-grandchildren.”

Reading Month celebrated at Shelby Elementary

On March 18 and 19, students at Shelby Elementary School were treated to a visit by author Janet (Van Gunst) Hasselbring to commemorate Reading Month. Janet shared books from her Tales from Pelican Cove series, which portray the wild/shorebirds of Florida and beyond, and her Country Dairy book, “Looking Back, Moving Forward,” describing life on her family farm in the 1930s when her parents, Henry and Ellen Van Gunst, lived and worked the land.

Janet described how she was inspired to write her books, shared writing techniques, read from her books and encouraged the students’ writing. The Country Dairy book was the students favorite. Janet described how much the farm has changed since she grew up there.

She also held a mock “Moo School,” quizzing the children on interesting facts about the farm today, e.g. “How many gallons of milk does the top cow at Country Dairy produce in a day?” And, “If it takes only 10 minutes to milk a cow, and they are milked three times a day, how much time is a cow actually working?” and “What do they do the rest of the time?”

The students agreed their favorite thing about going to the farm, was enjoying the bottomless cup of chocolate milk in the farmstore. Janet agreed!

Author Janet (Van

reads from one of her books to the students of Shelby Elementary School.

Chief Cob-moo-sa

Gunst) Hasselbring

Ongoing

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

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

WEDNESDAYS: Love INC and TrueNorth Housing Assistance satellite - please call 231-861-4880 to make an appointment.

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

1 st & 3 rd

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

1st & 3rd

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

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

FRIDAYS: Holy Hour, St. Joseph Catholic Church, 2349 W. Jackson Rd., Hart, 4-5 p.m., Fish Dinner, 5-7 p.m. 2nd & 4th

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

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

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

SUNDAYS: Awakening Faith classes, St. Joseph, Hart, 10-11:30 a.m.

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

M-F: “The Huddle” for 6th-12th grade youth, 3-5 p.m.

Tuesdays: Knitting Group, 10 a.m. to noon Tuesdays: Pit Stops for Men, age 12+, 6:30-7:30 p.m. (2/18-4/8) Saturdays: “Celebrate” Worship Service, 6:30 p.m. Complete schedule at: theladdercommunitycenter.com

Shelby Congregational to host free breakfast

The entire community is invited to join one another for breakfast tomorrow, Saturday, March 28, from 8-10 a.m. at Shelby Congregational United Church of Christ in Shelby. This totally free “Fifth Saturday” community breakfast is open to all and a great way to start Spring Break next week for local schools. Stop in for hot and cold breakfast items, conversation and fellowship. The church is located at 51 E. Third St. in downtown Shelby.

Rollins-Edlund Scholarship applications available

Applications are available for this $500 scholarship. and open to anyone regardless of age, from Oceana County to further their education in the health field.

The former Oceana Hospital Auxiliary continues to oversee the selection of the Rollins-Edlund Trust and selection of a worthy recipient in a health-related field. Information and applications are available by calling Karen Studer at 231873-3963. All applications must be completed and returned by May 30, 2025.

Senior Resources to host public hearing April 15

Senior Resources of West Michigan, the area agency on aging for Muskegon, Ottawa and Oceana Counties, is holding a public hearing to listen to the comments and opinions of older adults and caregivers regarding plans for service provision outlined in the Annual Implementation Plan for the period of Oct. 1, 2025 through Sept. 30, 2026.

The Public Hearings will include a review of the plan update, including services we wish to fund, as well as an opportunity for participant input and comment.

Public Hearing date, time and locations are:

Tuesday, April 15, 2025, at 3 p.m. Virtual (Zoom) Public Hearing: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/83364770176 Phone: 1-312-626-6799

Meeting ID: 833 6477 0176

Or in-person at: Tanglewood Park Training Room A&B 560 Seminole Rd. Muskegon, MI 49444

Advance copies of the plan will be available after April 1, 2025. To receive one, please call 231-733-3519 or 1-800-442-0054. A copy may be picked up at the hearing, or it is available for download on our website at Experts On Aging Service Providers - Senior Resources (seniorresourceswmi.org)

If you are unable to attend, comments can be submitted in writing by email to amy@seniorresourceswmi.org or through the postal service to Senior Resources, Attn: Amy Florea, 560 Seminole Rd., Muskegon, MI 49444.

Senior Resources administers a variety of federal, state, local and private funds to support services such as in-home care, senior meals, transportation, programs for caregivers, health promotion, legal and other services for individuals aged 60 and over. Senior Resources identifies needs and develops an area plan, informs and educates seniors, families, and the public on available services and issues affecting older adults, and advocates on behalf of all older adults in Muskegon, Oceana, and Ottawa counties.

March-April

March 28 – Friends of the Library Book Sale Ends, Hesperia Community Library, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.

March 28 & 29 - FIRST Robotics competition for Hesperia and Walkerville at Ferris State and Shelby at Kentwood.

March 28 - Apr. 4 - Spring Break for all Oceana County Schools

March 29 - Shelby Congregational United Church of Christ Free Community Breakfast, 51 E. Third St., Shelby, 8-10 a.m.

March 29 - Family Engineering, HAPL, 10:30 a.m.

March 29 - ORV Area Spring Clean-Up, SLSP, noon to 4 p.m.

March 31 - “Moana 2,” Hart Area Public Library, 1 p.m.

April 1 - Opening Day of the Silver Lake State Park ORV Area

April 1 - April Fool’s Day Games & Puzzles, HAPL, all day.

April 1 - Tech Time, Hesperia Comm. Library, 1:30-2:30 p.m.

April 2 - Magic of Skipski, Hart Area Public Library, 10 a.m.

April 3 - Drop-in Crafts, Hart Area Public Library, All day.

April 3 - Versiti Blood Drive, West Michigan Research Station, 5185 North Oceana Drive, Hart, 2-6:25 p.m.

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

April 7 - Pre-Kinder Roundup, Diman-Wolf Early Childhood Center, 306 W. Johnson St., Hart, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

April 8 - Tech Time, Hesperia Comm. Library, 1:30-2:30 p.m., Adult Book Club Movie, 2-4:30 p.m.

April 9 - Adult Daytime Craft, Hesp. Comm. Library, 2:30-3:30 p.m.

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

April 11 - “Ehud Asherie Swing Quartet,” Hart, 7:30 p.m.

Registration open for ‘Cooking for One’ classes

Sometimes, cooking a meal can seem like such a chore. When you are cooking for one person, it can seem even more like a chore as you think about what to cook, how much to make, how to cut down recipes and how to prepare everything. But it does not have to be that bad.

The Oceana County Council on Aging (OCCOA), together with Michigan State University, presents “Cooking for One.” The six-week course will take place at the Oceana County Council on Aging Wednesdays: April 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 and May 7 from 1:30-3 p.m. The OCCOA is located at 4250 W. Tyler Rd. in Hart. “Cooking for One” is a cooking and nutrition class for adults. So, whether one is senior, on their own (widow/widower), a single college student, hard-working adult or living independently for the first time (aging out of foster care), cooking for one can be fun!

Participants will:

• Learn ways cooking for one is simple and enjoyable.

• Learn helpful tips and tricks to making healthy choices, like eating well and being active.

• Enjoy cooking demonstrations, samples and wonderful recipes.

Please contact the Oceana County Council on Aging at (231) 873-4461 to register.

Mother’s Day Luncheon at The Ladder set for May 12

The Ladder Community Center is celebrating mothers! Join us Monday, May 12, at noon for a delicious meal and meaningful time with your mother, wife or friends. The luncheon menu includes chicken cavatappi, mixed vegetables, garden salad, dinner roll and fruit crisp. Place your order by 1 p.m. Friday, April 25 by calling (231) 259-0211. Luncheon tickets cost $10 per person. The theme for the event is “What picture will you leave behind?” Guests are asked to bring a picture of their mom.

Ladder registration is required for all attending this event. Those who are not registered members, please drop in prior to the luncheon to register and pay your monthly membership fee. If eligible, the membership fee may be covered by SilverSneakers or One Pass. The Ladder Community Center is located at 67 N. State St. in Shelby.

Cenetenary UMC to host Lenten Brunch

The Pentwater’s Centenary United Women in Faith invites all community members to their annual Lenten Brunch. This tradition will take place in the church’s Fellowship Hall on Tuesday, April 8 at 10 a.m., located at 82 S. Hancock St., Pentwater, across from the Pentwater Post Office. There is no charge for the event. Guest speaker Rev. Jane Lippert will present “Prayer that Rocks our World.” Lippert wanted to find work that would bring her to kinship with folks who found the church to be foreign. Ten years ago, the position of Church Outreach Coordinator became available at Central UMC. With her compassionate heart for all people, she became the face of Church Outreach. During her 9-year tenure at Central, it is impossible to overstate her importance to the church and its outreach mission and to a community of people in need of basic needs, dignity, sanctuary, prayer and hope. Please RSVP by April 1 to the church office, 231-869-5900, pentwaterumc@gmail.com.

Making maple syrup: A Schaner family tradition

By Sharon Hallack

The Oceana Echo Community Correspondent

Sugar’s sweet, but sap is sappier; Cold nights make the farmers happier! - The Old Famer’s Almanac, 1989

Spring is officially here, and maple syrup production across the county is continuing. Pure maple syrup, considered liquid gold by some, tastes like no other and is a completely natural sweetener. According to The Old Farmer’s Almanac, “Native Americans used maple syrup both as a food and as a medicine; and taught the age-old process of sugaring to the colonists. Maple syrup contains fewer calories and a higher concentration of minerals than honey. It is an excellent source of manganese and a good source of zinc.”

For Jeff and Kristine Schaner of Ferry Township, maple syrup has been produced on their Centennial Farm, the old-fashioned way, for nigh unto 150 years. The Schaners say they’ve found remnants of what they think is an old sugar shack in the woods behind their home, which could have been used by previous landowners, and distant cousins, the Hallacks.

“My grandpa (Harley Christmann) made syrup every spring as far back as I can remember,” Jeff Schaner said. “He boiled the sap outside in the yard over an open fire for years,” Schaner recalls.

The only maple trees Christmann tapped, and now the Schaners, are located on either side of a dead-end road in front of their house.

When asked how much syrup they produce, Jeff estimates anywhere between two to seven gallons depending on the year, with three to four gallons being their average. “We get enough for our own personal use and use the rest as gifts,” he said.

The Schaners purchased the family’s Centennial Farm in 2006. Not that it was a requirement for living there, but Jeff proudly picked up where his grandpa had left off and has continued the maple syrup-making tradition every year since. “Somewhere in the basement, written on a piece of cardboard are some of Grandpa’s records. I seem to remember 10-15 gallons being his average, although he tapped a few more trees,” Schaner said.

Both Jeff and Kristine work full-time and have three busy high schoolers, so they generally only boil two times per

season. Schaner said they had about 30 taps this year and utilized traditional galvanized buckets along with a modern cage tank for sap storage in between boils. Schaner said he’s had people suggest he get some tubing and save himself the hassle of hand-gathering. “The whole point (for me) is to do it the old-fashioned way, not mass produce,” Jeff smiled. “It’s purely for flavor and fun.”

Schaner replaced his grandpa’s “boiling pan” (used for the first stage of evaporation) with a stainless steel pan his dad, Jerry Schaner, used to use for the fire department’s famous chicken barbeques. A stainless steel sap reservoir sits above the boiling pan and trickles a small amount of sap into the boiling pan throughout the day. The sap gently boils, and a sweet steam is created as the water evaporates from it.

As many hours of boiling pass by, the sap begins to look more like syrup. It takes approximately 40 gallons of sap to make one gallon of syrup.

On boiling days, Schaner says he’ll start the fire early in the morning and boil until evening. Regulating the heat of a wood fire and keeping an eye on the primitive operation keep him very busy on boiling days. “You can’t leave it alone very long,” he said.

Once the first evaporating stage is complete, the Schaners drain the syrup into a five-gallon turkey frying kettle and then let it cool and settle out for a few days. But the syrup is still quite thin and needs to be boiled longer to draw out even more water to turn it into true maple syrup. Because it is very difficult to regulate the heat as the syrup nears completion, they do the second evaporation stage in the house, usually for four or five more hours, Schaner said.

According to another maple syrup producer, Zach Sponhauer of Sponhauer Farms in Shelby, the 2025 sugaring season has been less than stellar. “The season has been below average, with the extremely warm days affecting sap yield and quality. Over the last four years we’ve averaged .34 gallons per tap; so far we’re at .24,” Sponhauer said. “The 10-day forecast looks promising, but sugar content has been low.” Schaner reports a similar season, “I didn’t get the amount of sap I usually do and it seemed lower in sugar content. That’s life and farming, some seasons are better than others. But we kept the family tradition going, and that’s what counts.”

• Sharon Hallack/Echo

In Loving Memory of our Family, Friends and Neighbors

obituaries

Joyce Ann Ross

February 25, 1947 ~ March 12, 2025

Joyce Ann Ross, passed away peacefully at home with her devoted husband, Ronald, by her side on March 12, 2025, at the age of 78. She was born on February 25, 1947, in Hart, Mich. to her loving parents, Manuel and Mary Hovey. Joyce was a 1965 graduate of Shelby High School. She enjoyed “coming home” to Oceana County and spending time at her cottage, attending festivals and craft shows, and catching up with family. She was a beloved wife, sister, aunt, and friend whose gentle spirit and nurturing heart touched the lives of all who knew her.

Joyce was known for her passion for making the world around her a little more beautiful. A gifted gardener, Joyce spent countless hours tending to her yard, creating breathtaking displays of flowers that earned her and Ron’s home the “Prettiest Garden Award” in their community. Her green thumb was unmatched, and she found joy in sharing this passion with others. So much so that she joined the Clawson Garden Club, who called themselves the “ladybugs.”

Joyce was also a talented crafter, with a special love for cross-stitching. Her creativity was evident in the many handmade Christmas ornaments she lovingly crafted for family and friends. Every holiday season, her home would sparkle with multiple themed Christmas trees, each more enchanting than the last. Her family will forever cherish these tokens of her love.

Joyce is survived by her devoted husband of 57 years, Ronald Ross; her brothers, Dale (Linda) Hovey and Manuel “Poke” (Meltha) Hovey; many cherished nieces and nephews; and numerous great-nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by her parents, Manuel and Mary Hovey, and her beloved sister Nellie.

Visitation was held on March 19, 2025, and her funeral took place on March 20, 2025.

Joyce’s legacy will live on in the hearts of her family, her beautiful garden, and the many crafts and memories she leaves behind. She was a rare gem—a woman whose love for life and family was boundless and whose kindness will be remembered forever.

Melinda Sue Sayers

November 9, 1955 ~ March 23,

2025

Melinda Sue Sayers, 69, of Shelby, passed away peacefully March 23, 2025. She was born on November 9, 1955, in Fremont, the daughter of Dale and Dorene (Brown) Wolgamott Sr.

Melinda is survived by: her husband, Stanley Sayers; sons, Brad (Rolanda) Gleason, Bryan Gleason and Clyde Gleason; stepsons James (Rachel) Sayers, and Randall Sayers; several grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. In accordance with Melinda’s wishes, cremation has taken place, and interment will be in Troy Township Cemetery at a later date. Harris Funeral Home, in Shelby, is in charge of arrangements.

Roger Martin Schultz

February 24, 1933 ~ March 20, 2025

Roger Martin Schultz, 92, of Shelby, passed away peace fully March 20, 2025. He was born February 24, 1933, in Shelby, the son of Martin and Marian (Fowler) Schultz. Roger is survived by his children: Debbie O’Connell, Roger “Buck” Schultz and Greg (Karen) Schultz; daughter-in-law, Sandy Schultz; 11 grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; and 1 great-great-grandchild.

Roger was preceded in death by: his parents, Martin and Marian (Fowler) Schultz; wife of 67 years, Shirley (Smith) Schultz; son, Rod Schultz; granddaughter, Holly Schultz; and son-in-law, Nick O’Connell.

A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m., Friday, March 28, 2025, at Harris Funeral Home, 267 N. Michigan Ave., Shelby, MI 49455. A receiving of friends will be held one hour prior to services at the funeral home. Harris Funeral Home, in Shelby, is in charge of arrangements.

Death Notice

~ Arthur Edward Kelley

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the death of our beloved dad, Arthur Edward Kelley, age 76, on March 12, 2025, at his home in Clarkston, Mich. An obituary and information about a memorial will be posted later.

Lorraine June VanDyke

September 11, 1928 ~ March 25, 2025

Mrs. Lorraine June (Hoover) VanDyke, 96, passed away into the loving arms of Jesus surrounded by her family on Tues day, March 25, 2025 at Cherry Blossom Manor in Hart.

She was born Sept. 11, 1928 in Muskegon to Arthur and Ida (Telleson) Hoover. She married Robert “Bob” VanDyke Oct. 7, 1950, and they had 46 years together before he preceded her in death in 1996.

A hard worker her entire life, she had multiple jobs, and she and Bob owned a number of businesses in Shelby, including Northland Bar, Van’s Party Store, The Soap Box laundromat and Van’s Variety.

Eagle-eyed and cardsharp, Lorraine was a shrewd busi nesswoman and very competitive. She liked a good steak, a good drink and a good Red Wings game. She enjoyed camping at Kibby Creek Campground near Pentwater for many years and often played cards with her friends. She liked jigsaw puzzles, was an avid reader of both books and newspapers and will always be remembered for her extensive collection of over 2,000 bells. Lorraine was very active throughout her life, bowling and winning trophies in various leagues, playing bingo, and traveling throughout the U.S. and Europe. From sporting events to recitals and everything in between, she was a fixture at her grandchildren’s and great-grandchildren’s many activities. Her great-grandchildren fondly remember how she always brought them popcorn whenever they saw her.

Food was a source of joy in her life, as she loved to go out to eat, especially with her sisters. She kept many of her favorites stocked for her grandchildren to enjoy, including Famous Amos cookies and Ruby Red Squirt. She was also the first to volunteer to bring green bean casserole, homemade fudge or her signature potato salad to holiday parties and family gatherings. She enjoyed cooking on these occasions as well, whipping up pizzas, pronto pups and other fried treats. Coffee was also a staple in her daily life, and she drank up to eight cups a day. She even kept a backup coffee maker, just in case.

She enjoyed shopping, especially with other family members in tow, and was always well dressed, with her hair permed, her lipstick on and a rain bonnet or two tucked in her purse. Lorraine enjoyed decorating her apartment for each holiday and season, and had an impressive Christmas village and display of Snowbuddies.

She was a tough cookie, but had a soft laugh and a wistful gaze. She rarely smiled in pictures, but enjoyed the smiles on her family and friends’ faces when she gave them gifts. She did have a habit of saying that something “was interesting” if it wasn’t her particular cup of tea. She also enjoyed making various crafts and sold a number of them.

Lorraine was an active member of the Shelby United Methodist Church in the later part of her life. Her final years were spent at Cherry Blossom Manor, where she received excellent care from the staff there and was befriended by many of the residents. Her family will be forever grateful to them, and also to daughter-in-law Lorrie VanDyke, who visited her regularly and was instrumental in making sure all of her needs were attended to.

Lorraine is survived by: her children, Arthur (Sally) VanDyke of Greenfield, Mo., Alan (Chong) VanDyke of Bossier City, La., Gregory (Diane) VanDyke of New Era, Kevin (Lorrie) VanDyke and Robert (Mary) VanDyke both of Shelby and Jeffrey VanDyke of Dallas, Texas; grandchildren, Dyan (Juan) Sanchez, Robert “Bobby” VanDyke, Robert “Bo” (Nicole) VanDyke, Michael VanDyke, Adam (Taylor) VanDyke, Chris (Holli Richards) VanDyke, Connie (Brian) VanDerZanden, Amanda (David) Dodge and Cody (Kara) VanDyke; 18 great-grandchildren and three great-great-grandchildren; siblings, Doris Stroup, Wayne (Susan) Hoover and Marilyn Bradfield; sister-in-law, Kay Sikkenga; along with many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Arthur and Ida Hoover; husband, Robert VanDyke; infant son, Robert VanDyke III; granddaughter, Jennifer VanDyke; great-grandson, Alex Buentello and daughter-in-law, Virginia “Jenny” VanDyke; siblings Virginia (Ward) Crampton, Charles “Bud” (Marie) Hoover, Donna (Charles) Dagen, Bertram “Pete” (Eleanor) Hoover, Betty (John) Sturdefant, Carol (Bernard) Harrell and Richard “Dick” Hoover; brothers-in-law, Lester Stroup, Garry Bradfield and James Sikkenga.

Her funeral service will take place Saturday, March 29 at Harris Funeral Home in Shelby at 11 a.m., with a graveside service immediately following at Mt. Hope Cemetery and a luncheon afterwards back at Harris Funeral Home.

Visitation at Harris Funeral Home will take place from 6-8 p.m. Friday, March 28 and one hour before the funeral service on Saturday.

Donations in her memory may be made to the Cherry Blossom Manor Activity Fund or The Oceana Echo newspaper.

Harris Funeral Home, in Shelby, is in charge of her arrangements.

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• On March 31, 1492, King Ferdinand II of Aragon and Queen Isabella I of Castile issued the Alhambra Decree, which mandated that all Jews be expelled from the country by the end of July. The church had already forced much of Spain’s Jewish population to convert, and modern historians estimate that around 40,000 Jews emigrated.

STRANGE BUT TRUE #12345_20250317 FOR RELEASE MARCH 17, 2025

By Lucie Winborne

• On April 1, 1963, ABC aired the first episode of “General Hospital,” which became the longest-running serial program produced in Hollywood. On the same day, rival network NBC premiered its own medicalthemed soap opera, “The Doctors.” Both networks aimed to capitalize on the popularity of shows such as “Dr. Kildare” and “Ben Casey.”

• Protect your broom by storing it handle side down. You can purchase wall clips at your local hardware store, and then it’ll be off the floor, ready when you are!

• The Vision Council offers tips to minimize digital eye strain: Use the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break and look at something 20 feet away.

By JoAnn Derson

• On April 2, 1992, mob boss John Gotti, aka the “Teflon Don” due to his notable ability to avoid conviction, was found guilty on 13 counts, including murder and racketeering, and sentenced to life in prison. A decade later, he died of throat cancer at age 61.

• On April 3, 1948, “The Louisiana Hayride,” a country radio program broadcast out of Shreveport, Louisiana, debuted. It launched the careers of several country music giants, and also that of a certain teenage, honey-voiced aspirant by the name of Elvis Presley.

• On April 4, 1975, Operation Babylift, an American airlift to the U.S. and other Western nations of Vietnamese children deemed war orphans, had a disastrous start when an Air Force cargo jet crashed shortly after takeoff in Saigon, killing more than 135 passengers.

• On April 5, 1984, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar scored the 31,420th point of his career, breaking Wilt Chamberlain’s NBA all-time scoring record. Abdul-Jabbar’s record would remain intact for almost four decades.

• On April 6, 1909, American explorer Robert Peary believed he had fulfilled a long-cherished dream when he, his assistant Matthew Henson and four Inuits reached what they determined to be the North Pole. Decades after Peary’s death, however, navigational errors were discovered in his travel log, in all probability placing his expedition several miles short of its goal. © 2025 King Features Synd., Inc.

• Use a strip of hook and loop tape to secure game controllers to their consoles. This way, you’ll never have to go looking for one when you’re ready to play.

• “Fill your sink with soapy hot water as you are cooking dinner. Your dirty pans and bowls can go right in the sink to soak. After dinner, they will be easy to wash.” — E.D. in South Carolina

• Make your stainless-steel sink sparkle by buffing it with a few drops of mineral oil and a soft rag, after a good cleaning, of course.

• “If a pocket or two on an over-thedoor shoe rack has busted, it’s not done being useful. You can cut remaining pockets to fit inside your bathroom cabinet. Secure at the top with screws. Place cups in a few pockets to hold cotton swabs or balls, etc.” — W.L. in Washington Send your tips to Now Here’s a Tip, 628 Virginia Drive, Orlando, FL 32803.

By Lucie Winborne

• A rainbow on Venus is called a “glory.”

• LEGO bricks withstand compression better than concrete! An ordinary plastic LEGO brick can support the weight of 375,000 other bricks before it fails, which would theoretically allow you to build a tower nearing 3.5 km in height, but scaling that up to house-size bricks would prove too cost prohibitive.

• Giraffes are 30 times more likely to get hit by lightning than people are.

• Your brain is constantly eating itself, in a process called phagocytosis, where cells envelop and consume smaller cells or molecules to remove them from the system. Luckily, phagocytosis isn’t painful or harmful, but helps preserve gray matter.

• Identical twins don’t have the same fingerprints.

• The sun makes a sound in the form of pressure waves, but it’s far beyond the range of human hearing.

• A comet smells like rotten eggs, urine, burning matches and almonds.

• One in 18 people have a third nipple. Known as polythelia, it’s caused by a mutation in inactive genes.

• Starfish don’t have bodies. Along with other echinoderms such as sea urchins and sand dollars, their entire “bodies” are technically classed as heads.

• There are roughly three ginger male cats to one ginger female. The ginger gene is found on the X chromosome, meaning female cats would require two copies of the gene to become ginger while males need just one.

• Martial artists who smile before the start of a match are more likely to lose.

• At a temperature of 54,000 F, a lightning bolt is five times hotter than the surface of the sun.

• In the U.S., murder rates reportedly rise by 2.7% over the summer.

City of Hart approves professional water quality sampling program

By Sharon Hallack

The Oceana Echo Community Correspondent

HART - March 11, the Hart City Council gave unanimous approval for a proposal from Progressive Companies, Grand Rapids division, for a not-to-exceed amount of $23,000. These funds will be used for implementing a water quality sampling, reporting and recommendation program, with the plan to develop a new water quality improvement plan for the city.

City Manager Rob Splane prefaced a presentation by Environmental Scientist Rick Buteyn of Progressive, by bringing new council members up to speed on the current relationship between Hart Lake and the Pentwater River, below the Hart Dam. The river, classified as a cold-water trout stream in 1997, has warmed over many decades. When water temperatures below the Hart Dam were attributed to the temperatures of Hart Lake, the city was notified by the state the situation needed to be remedied. They spent several years in negotiation and ultimately were required to enter into an Administrative Consent Order (ACO) with the FERC (Federal Energy Regulatory Commission).

Formal monitoring of the lake began in 2015, Splane said. In 2016 the city’s engineers, Prein & Newhoff,

submitted three possible solutions for lowering lake temperatures. One was to drill wells below the dam and transfer the cooler water into the river, at a cost of $16.2M.

A second was to make the lake deeper by dredging the bottom. Not only was this option costly but would ultimately create drastic environmental issues. A third suggestion was to run a conduit under the lake and put the cooled water into the river at a cost of $14M. Each plan was rejected for obvious reasons.

Last year the city had to submit an updated long-term temperature reduction plan with EGLE outlining “best practice” solutions, and included such actions as installing permeable pavements, additional tree plantings along the lake’s shore and stormwater drain upgrades. Since then, Splane has been in con-

Sable Points Lighthouse Keepers Association seeks day keepers for 2025 season

The Sable Points Lighthouse Keepers Association (SPLKA) has opportunities for volunteers to serve as day keepers at its historic lighthouses along the Lake Michigan shoreline for the 2025 season. The opportunity offers a hands-on way to experience Michigan’s maritime history while helping to preserve and maintain these iconic beacons.

Day Keepers play a vital role in keeping SPLKA’s lighthouses—Big Sable Point Lighthouse, Little Sable Point Lighthouse, Ludington North Breakwater Light, and White River Light Station—open to the public. Duties include greeting visitors, sharing historical information, and assisting in the gift shop. No prior experience is required, and training will be provided.

“Volunteering as a day keeper is a unique way to engage with history and the beauty of Michigan’s shoreline while contributing to lighthouse preservation,” said Amy Dow, Operations Manager. “It’s a rewarding experience for those passionate about history, community service, and the Great Lakes.”

SPLKA seeks individuals, couples, and small groups willing to commit to at least one day of service during the 2025 season, which runs from May through October. Those interested in an extended stay may also apply for the live-in keeper program, which allows volunteers to reside at select lighthouses for a week while performing similar duties.

For more information or to apply, visit SPLKA’s website at https://splka.org/ways-to-connect/volunteer.html or contact the SPLKA office at (231) 845-7417.

tact with Progressive Companies, in an effort to look at the situation “with a different set of eyes”.

The Hart Lake Improvement Board (HLIB) is a Special Tax Assessment District overseen by the Oceana County Drain Commission, Splane said following the meeting. They have used Progressive AE (now Progressive Company) for various water quality and invasive aquatic plant species remediation plans in Hart Lake for about 14 years now. The city may ask for HLIB for approval or funding support in the future, Splane said, but at this point, the city is taking the lead on research and discovery for possible water temperature remediation.

“EGLE wants effort,” Buteyn said. He added that city engineers can only offer “hard engineering”. Progressive offers more of what

is called “soft engineering”, using more natural materials and nature-based solutions.

For 12 years the city has been using timed herbicide treatments to limit aquatic plant life, i.e. algae. But as an example Buteyn shared an alternative might be to introduce duck weed, which actually cools the water. It’s also about educating homeowners and finding a balance between the environment and aesthetics.

Buteyn said that most of his company’s projects of this nature have been fairly small. “We haven’t done any ‘water-cooling’ plans per se. But we’re familiar with impoundments," he said.

Buteyn proposed several phases. The first phase would be completed in 2025 and involve a lot of sampling; in different places and at different times, and believes some sim-

ple projects will surface that could possibly be implemented yet this year. By the end of 2025 a formal plan will be developed that can be implemented in 2026 and forward.

Splane reassured the council that the proposal has been budgeted for this fiscal year and the Hart Energy Board has given their approval. He’s hoping the city can meet the requirements set forth by the ACO by doing smaller projects versus a large project.

In other business, Splane informed council the city is going through its scheduled Redevelopment Ready Community (RCC) Review. The city, certified in 2020, was the 48th RRC in the state, and the first in all of Manistee, Mason and Oceana counties.

A list of “RRC Essentials” have been added to the city’s website and are required as part of this next level of certification. “Ideally (as an RRC) we’re courting people and developers,” Splane said. According to Splane, Hart’s website is the only one in the county with all of the information developers want to see when they are looking for a place to do business.

Interested individuals can find everything they need to know with regards to the City of Hart’s planning, permits, zoning and the like at www.cityofhart.org>Services tab>Forms, Publications and Links.

Oceana County

Animal Shelter

Bow down, mere mortals, for Quinn has entered the room. At 15 pounds of pure tortitude, she is equal parts sass, snuggles, and supreme ruler of whatever home she graces.

Quinn is friendly—to those who deserve it. She will gladly accept chin scratches, head pats, and compliments on her luxurious tortoiseshell coat. However, if you have a dog? Absolutely not. Quinn does not entertain the presence of barking peasants. She is a dog-free, royalty-only establishment.

She enjoys lounging in sunbeams, judging you from a high perch, and reminding you that she is in charge here. If you’re looking for a cat with personality, presence, and just the right amount of dramatic flair, Quinn is your girl.

Quinn 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.

Meet Quinn

L.A.S.S.I. provides free dog ID tags to all Oceana County residents. To request tags, send a text to 231-7303906. Free tags are also available at the Oceana County Animal Shelter.

Animal Friends

Hello there, I’m Puzzle! I may be a kitten, but I’ve got the heart of a lion. I’m sweet as honey and brave as a knight. I’ve faced some tough times, like when I had an upper respiratory infection (URI). But don’t worry, I’m a fighter and I’ve recovered well. I’m also super friendly, I love meeting new people and making friends. You might be wondering why I’m named Puzzle. Well, I have a knack for solving problems and finding my way into hearts. So, why should you adopt me? I’m a bundle of joy and courage. I promise to make every day brighter with my sweetness and bravery. I’m ready to be your best friend and a part of your family. Will you be the missing piece in my puzzle?

If you would like to adopt Puzzle, please fill out an application through the OCAF Facebook page: Oceana County Animal Friends or online at: oceanacountyanimalfriends.wordpress.com

• Contributed Photo by Calvin Roskam

20 local hoopers named All-Conference selections

By: Brendan Samuels The Oceana Echo Sports Editor

Following up on last week’s coverage of All-Conference accolades in Oceana County, we’ll focus on the basketball court.

Of the 49 athletes from Hart, Hesperia and Shelby that were named AllWest Michigan Conference (WMC), 14 came from girls and boys basketball teams.

Hart led the way in the WMC with nine overall basketball selections. For the boys team, junior Caleb Ackley and freshman Kolton Rockwell were each named first team, while senior Brendan Hiddema and junior Miguel Escamilla were named Honorable Mention. Hart’s girls team had five selections, including Addi Hovey, Rilynn Porter and Reese Smith snagging first team nods. Kelsey Copenhaver and Breslyn Porter joined those three, earning Honorable Mention titles.

The Panthers had two selections

The Score

Monday, March 19: Shelby 3, Howard City Tri-County 6

Wednesday, March 21: Hart 0, Fruitport 2

Wednesday, March 26: Hart 2, Grand Rapids West Catholic 3

on the basketball court. On the boys team, senior Ethan O’Neil was a first team selection. Sarissa Conkle showed improvement in her sophomore year, earning another honorable mention nod for the girls team.

Shelby had three hoopers selected. The girls team led with youth, as freshmen Jayna Burmeister and Michelle Peterson were each given first team nods. Eli Kelley was the lone selection from the boys team, taking home an honorable mention selection.

In Division 4, Pentwater had an

Monday, April 7:

Shelby vs. Lakeview, 5:45 p.m.

Tuesday, April 8: Hart vs. Reed City, 5 p.m.

Wednesday, April 9: Shelby vs. Grant, 6 p.m.

Thursday, April 10:

Hart @ Chippewa Hils, 6 p.m.

Monday, April 14:

Hart @ N. Muskegon, 5:45 p.m.

Shelby vs. Whitehall, 5 p.m.

impressive six selections inside the West Michigan D League. Trey Johnson and Mikey Carlson earned first team selections while Jonny Arnouts was awarded second team and Kaleb Brown took honorable mention. The lady Falcons had one athlete on both the first and second All-WMD team. Aubrie Adams was named first team, while Charlie Swanger was given second team honors.

That brings the winter totals to 55 athletes on All-Conference teams in Oceana County.

Up & Coming

Wednesday, April 2:

**Hesperia vs. Kent City, 4 p.m.

Tuesday, April 8:

**Shelby vs. Hesperia, 4 p.m.

**Hart vs. MCC, 4 p.m.

Thursday, April 10:

**Hart vs. White Cloud, 4 p.m.

**Hesperia @ Pine River, 4 p.m.

Friday, April 11:

**Shelby vs. MCE, 4:15 p.m.

**Pentwater @ Onekama, 4:15 p.m.

Tuesday, April 15:

**Shelby vs. N. Muskegon, 4:15 p.m.

**Hesperia @ Holton, 4 p.m.

Wednesday, April 16:

**Hart @ Ravenna, 4 p.m.

Tuesday, April 8:

**Shelby vs. Hesperia, 4 p.m.

**Hart vs. MCC, 4 p.m.

Thursday, April 10:

**Hart vs. White Cloud, 4 p.m.

**Hesperia @ Pine River, 4:15 p.m.

Friday, April 11:

**Shelby vs. MCE, 4:15 p.m.

Tuesday, April 15:

**Shelby vs. N. Muskegon, 4:15 p.m.

**Hesperia @ Holton, 4 p.m.

Wednesday, April 16:

**Hart @ Ravenna, 4 p.m.

Who plays next Among Oceana County teams

Results from Oceana County teams

Reflections of our community

White Lake Mirror White Lake Mirror

YOUR LOCALLY OWNED AND OPERATED NONPROFIT NEWS SOURCE

YOUR LOCALLY OWNED AND OPERATED NONPROFIT NEWS SOURCE Reflections

Quilts of Valor ceremony reunites veterans

Two Michigan servicemen meet up for 1st time since being in Korea

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

— Ten veterans became the latest to receive a quilt from the Quilts of Valor Foundation Sunday at the White Lake VFW, but for one in particular, the ceremony represented a remarkable reunion.

White Lake VFW, but for one in particular, the ceremony represented a remarkable reunion.

MONTAGUE — Ten veterans became the latest to receive a quilt from the Quilts of Valor Foundation Sunday at the White Lake VFW, but for one in particular, the ceremony represented a remarkable reunion.

John Ebenstein, of Stanwood, was one of the 10 honored with a quilt, and another special part of the day for him was reuniting with Ken Giddis of Montague, a White Lake VFW member. Both men served at Camp Matta in Korea in the late 1960s and while there, bonded over the fact that they were the only servicemembers there (that they knew of, anyway) from Michigan.

While their tours overlapped, though, they did not depart Korea at the same time, and they lost touch once their time in the Army was over. Sunday was the first time since then that they'd seen one another. It may not have happened but for a happy coincidenceEbenstein saw a recent news report on TV about a Quilts of Valor ceremony at Montague High School in which Giddis spoke (Giddis received his Quilt of Valor in 2022) and recognized him. His wife, Joyce, soon after reached out to the foundation on behalf of her husband.

While their tours overlapped, though, they did not depart Korea at the same time, and they lost touch once their time in the Army was over. Sunday

seen one another. It may not have happened but for a happy coincidenceEbenstein saw a recent news report on TV about a Quilts of Valor ceremony at Montague High School in which Gidspoke (Giddis in and him. wife, Joyce, soon after reached out to the foundation on behalf of her husband.

"I never thought I'd see anybody (from over there again)," Ebenstein said, to which Giddis replied, "I didn't either. You're the first since I've been home."

(from over there again)," Ebenstein said, to which Giddis replied, "I didn't

"I never thought I'd see anybody (from over there again)," Ebenstein said, to which Giddis replied, "I didn't either. You're the first since I've been home."

Ebenstein said their time in Korea was little noted by many - the Vietnam War was in progress at the time and got

far more attention - but armed skirmishes near the Demilitarized Zone separating North and South Korea were common in those years, the Korean War having only recently ended. Giddis said his service mostly revolved around reconnaissance, so he didn't spend much time around the base, but he and Ebenstein spent most of their available time together. That made their reunion Sunday a special time.

"This is the first our wives have met," Giddis said. "I don't think he's changed a bit. I've gotten a little heavier, and John (has) too. We have a lot more gray hair than we did then, (and it's) a little thinner. It's been a long time for us. It's good to be back together and see each other again."

Ebenstein expressed a viewpoint common among those who receive quilts - that he felt humbled by it, modestly feeling his service did not call for such an honor.

Ebenstein expressed a viewpoint common among those who receive quilts - that he felt humbled by it, modfeeling his did not call for such honor.

"It's great to see Ken again and everything, but as far as the quilt, I don't really feel like I did anything special," Ebenstein said.

"It's great to see Ken again and everything, but far as the quilt, I don't really feel like I did anything special," Ebenstein said.

"We had to do a job, and we served and we were there," Giddis said. "We did what we were asked to do."

"We had do a job, and we served and there," Giddis said. "We did what we were asked to do."

"We had to do a job, and we served and we were there," Giddis said. "We did what we were asked to do."

Ebenstein said their time in Korea little noted Vietnam War was in and got

Two Michigan servicemen meet up for 1st time since being in Korea Reunited

Ebenstein said their time in Korea was little noted by many - the Vietnam War was in progress at the time and got

Giddis said in the TV report Ebenstein saw, he was actually able to be around some of the people who make

Giddis said in the TV report Ebensaw, he was actually able to be around some of the people who make

Roberts

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

WHITEHALL — Author and self-described shipwreck hunter Ross Richardson is a big fan of Lake Michigan maritime history and maritime mystery. He even has a website - michiganmysteries.com - dedicated to shipwrecks, both discovered and undiscovered.

the quilts, which he felt was a great honor.

The Quilts of Valor foundation aims to provide comfort and healing to veterans who served through its awards. As is said at each ceremony, "a quilt is not a blanket," because it has three layers of fabric instead of just one.

Other Quilts of Valor honorees

Sunday were William Suggs, Kelly Sue Grow, Mark Upson, Tammy Sloan, Dirk Chilcote, Barbara Locke, Gary Hoff-

Other Quilts of Valor honorees Sunday were William Suggs, Kelly Sue Grow, Mark Upson, Tammy Sloan, Dirk Chilcote, Barbara Locke, Gary Hoff-

Sunday were William Suggs, Kelly Sue Grow, Mark Upson, Tammy Sloan, Dirk Chilcote, Barbara Locke, Gary Hoff-

meyer, Gerald Buttleman and Arthur Higgison. They represented service in every decade from the 1960s through the 2000s, as well as representing all five long-running branches of the military: Upson, Sloan and Buttleman were in the Army like Ebenstein was; Higgison and Suggs served in the Navy; Chilcote and Locke were in the Air

hunter" shares findings at library

"Shipwreck hunter" shares findings at library

WHITEHALL — Author and self-described hunter Ross Richardson is a big fan of Lake Michigan maritime history and maritime mystery. a website - michiganmysteries.com - dedicated to shipwrecks, both discovered and undiscovered.

Wednesday night, March 19, he presented some findings to an eager audience at White Lake Community Library, one of dozens of libraries in the state he's visited over the years (including Montague a few years ago). Included in that presentation was some firsthand exploring he did with the founder of Mammoth Distilling, Chad Munger, and his chief whiskey maker Ari Sussman at the wreck of the James R. Bentley ship, which sank in Lake Huron in 1878. The ship went down with a healthy amount of grain

Wednesday night, March 19, he presented some findings to an eager audience at White Lake Community Library, one of dozens of libraries in the state he's visited over the years (including ago).

Included in that presentation was some firsthand exploring he did with the founder of Mammoth Distilling, Chad Munger, and his chief whiskey maker Ari Sussman at the wreck of the James R. Bentley ship, which sank in Lake Huron in 1878. The ship went down with a healthy amount of grain

on board, and the trio was able to retrieve much of it. (State law generally prohibits retrieving items from shipwrecks, but the Bentley, according to a 2024 MLive article, is privately owned and not bound by that law.) The distillers are working to plant the grain and infuse their whiskey with a deep bit of Michigan history. The 'shipwreck whiskey' is even available for pre-order on Mammoth's website - for over $500 a bottle.

on board, and the trio able to retrieve much of it. (State law generally prohibits items from shipwrecks, but the Bentley, according to a 2024 MLive article, is privately owned and not bound by that law.) The distillers are working to plant the grain and infuse whiskey with a deep bit of Michigan history. The 'shipwreck whiskey' is even available for pre-order on Mammoth's website - for over $500 a bottle.

However, Richardson's diving hasn't been limited to commercial opportunities. He shared a video of his dive to the wreck of the Westmoreland, which sank in 1854 and wasn't found for over a century and a half - until Richardson came across it in 2010 after researching the wreck. After years of jumping through regulatory hoops, he was able to explore the wreck on a dive in 2020. (He wrote a book about it - The Search for the Westmoreland.)

He discussed a number of other shipwrecks, including the Western Reserve and the Gilcher, sister ships that went down in the late 19th century, both believed to be caused by fatigue to the metal used in their construction. The Gilcher, which disappeared in

been found.

near

and

never been found. Richardson is also fascinated with missing planes in Michigan history. Among other mystery flights, he discussed a Cessna

Richardson is also fascinated with missing planes in Michigan history. Among other mystery flights, he discussed a Cessna flown by John and Jean Block on the Fourth of July,

Ken Giddis (left) and John Ebenstein, who are both from Michigan and served together in the Army in Korea in the late 1960s, reunited Sunday at the Quilts of Valor ceremony. The two had not seen each other since serving. • Andy Roberts/Mirror

the Manitou Passage near the Sleeping Bear Dunes, has never

Author and shipwreck hunter Ross Richardson displays a photo of an underwater wreck during his Wednesday, March 19 presentation at the White Lake Community Library.

• Andy Roberts/Mirror

Veterans honored with Quilts of Valor Sunday at the White Lake VFW included, from left, Dirk Chilcote, Kelly Sue Grow, Gary Hoffmeyer, Mark Upson, John Ebenstein, Gerald Buttleman, Tammy Sloan, Barbara Locke, William Suggs and Arthur Higgison.

• Andy Roberts/Mirror Photos

MONTAGUE

Manitou Passage

the Sleeping Bear Dunes, has

flown by John

Jean Block on the Fourth of July,

Author and shipwreck hunter Ross Richardson displays a photo of an underwater wreck during his Wednesday, March 19 presentation at the White Lake Community Library. • Andy Roberts/Mirror

• Andy Roberts/Mirror Photos

MONTAGUE — Ten veterans became the latest to receive a quilt from the Quilts of Valor Foundation Sunday at the

Sleeping Bear Dunes, has never

Author and shipwreck hunter Ross Richardson displays a photo of an underwater wreck during his Wednesday, March 19 presentation at the White Lake Community Library.

• Andy Roberts/Mirror

• Andy Roberts/Mirror Photos

Montague DECA team shines at state

The Montague DECA team enjoyed a lot of success at the event's state conference, which took place March 13-15 in Detroit. Six students moved on to compete in the International Career Development Conference, which is set for April 26-30 in Orlando: Jordyn Tolan and Abriana Ramthun in SchoolBased Enterprise, Emalee McGee and Santiago Perales in Chapter Awards Project, and Jordan Netcott and Ava Pelton for the Thrive Campaign.

Thirteen students in all competed at state; in addition to the six to reach nationals, Tyson Schattenberg (business finance), Kiley Miller and Charlotte Stuart (buying and merchandising team decision-making event), Jaxon Risch (financial consulting event), Riley

Mulder (innovation plan), and Ellie Dexter and Sophie Miller (sales project) were part of the state event.

Schattenberg, Miller, Stuart and Risch qualified for state through a December district competition at Grand Valley State University, while the remaining events were direct competitors at state. Miller and Stuart received state finalist medals for their event. Tolan and Ramthun received gold certification, and McGee and Perales earned highest honors.

Pelton and Netcott will be invited to see the Thrive Academy in Orlando, which works with students who have autism spectrum disorder to create individualized education plans, as part of their trip to the international conference.

Reunited vets

Force; Hoffmeyer was in the Marines; and Grow served in the Coast Guard.

Chilcote, who is mobility-limited, brought his service dog, Tiger, with him, and said he does some work training service dogs. He said his work started when, in 2018, the Department of Veterans Affairs told him it could take years to pair him with a service dog, so he just decided to begin training his own.

"(It's) a lot of time and effort," Chilcote said. "It's just like training any other dog, but they get trained specifically

to the needs of the disabled."

In the last couple of years, Chilcote said, he's had 29 puppies, and around half of them have ended up being trained as service dogs. White Lake VFW member Jerry Doran, as it happens, was instrumental in getting Chilcote a Quilt of Valor, and Doran in turn is receiving one of Chilcote's dogs. Chilcote said he works with a nonprofit in Delaware, CASH (Canines Assisting Service Heroes), to get service dogs paired with veterans in need.

1977, that went down on a flight from Detroit to Luzerne (in northeast Michigan) and has never been found, despite never going over a large body of water and despite near-ideal flying conditions that day. Other planes that have disappeared have been uncovered over the years - and are still there in many cases, having crashed into deep forests from which retrieval

Fruitland Twp. approves budget

By Claire Marshall White Lake Mirror Writer

The Fruitland Township board unanimously approved the 202526 budget, totaling $1,468,313, at its Monday, March 17 regular meeting.

Before the vote, supervisor Jeff Marcinkowski reviewed the budget and discussed some of the “big ticket” items so that the board and the small audience - in person and on Zoom - understood the inclusion and necessity of these expenses and the board could ask questions if needed.While the budget will not change, the total revenue of the township may increase barring any future sale of property on Whitehall Road and the earnings of tree harvesting following storm damage last June. The budget, and the itemization of expenses, can be seen on the township website. There were several open positions on two committees that were open for residents to fill - the White Lake Fire Authority and Planning Commission. After hearing presentations from interested applicants at both last week’s work session and Monday’s

meeting, the board approved new committee members from a provided short list. The board appointed Lori Lundell and Nelson Huldin to the planning commission and Jeff Goss to the White Lake Fire Authority; the latter replaced Melissa Beegle, who retired.

The board also discussed the previous Tuesday’s town hall meeting. The board again expressed satisfaction with the turnout and was interested to hear what residents were

most concerned about. Because of the high turnout, the board is excited to continue with the planned series of town hall discussion meetings, and are going ahead with the plan to host them quarterly - though dates are yet to be determined.

During public comment, Brian Mulnix discussed his view on the importance of preserving road ends for public access, especially on White Lake. This topic was brought up earlier during the budget breakdown, as public land

could be sold to private property owners and used as possible sources of revenue. Mulnix posited that boaters, fishermen, and others who may not have easy access to the water utilize the road ends frequently, and suggested the community may even benefit to see the township build up those sections of infrastructure.

A calendar is available at fruitlandmi.gov, detailing upcoming events and meetings.

is impractical. In all, Richardson said, over 6,000 shipwrecks exist in the Great Lakes, many of them still undiscovered. However, he shared that due to improvements in technology, discoveries have become more and more common. It helps, ironically, that an invasive species of mussel called the quagga mussel has become insanely common in the Great Lakes - Richardson said scientists estimate over a trillion are in the lakes.

While the mussels are an issue for many environmental reasons - their rapid water filtration removes plankton that serves as food supply for fish - a byproduct of the filtration is that deep water visibility is quite good in the lakes, facilitating some shipwreck discoveries. He's hopeful that as time goes on, many of the mysteries chronicled on his website will be solved.

Montague DECA team members Santiago Perales and Emalee McGee (left photo) and Abriana Ramthun (left of right photo) and Jordyn Tolan celebrate their success at the state DECA conference in Detroit. They, along with Jordan Netcott and Ava Pelton, earned the right to compete in an April international conference in Orlando. • Courtesy Photos

Saturday, March 29

Music Bingo @ White Lake Eagles, 6 p.m.

The Carl Webb Band performs @ North Grove Brewers, 7 p.m.

Justin Avdek & Tommy Foster perform @ Fetch Brewing, 7 p.m.

Greg Miller & Mitch Kahle perform @ Book Nook & Java Shop, 7 p.m.

Sunday, March 30

White Lake Ukulele Club meets @ Book Nook & Java Shop, 1 p.m. All are welcome. Penny Rushing teaches on stage.

Monday, March 31

Craft Club @ MADL Montague, 10 a.m. Create a small floral wreath for your front door. Register @ madl.li-

brarycalendar.com.

Monday Night Euchre @ Danny'Z Rothbury Tavern, 6:30 p.m.

Dumber by the Beer trivia @ North Grove Brewers, 7 p.m.

Tuesday, April 1

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

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

Pretty Fun trivia @ Book Nook & Java Shop, 6:15 p.m.

Wednesday, April 2

Lakeshore Museum Center hosts Coffee with Classmates: Whitehall @ White Lake Community Library, 10 a.m. Museum will provide photos and materials from its archives; feel

free to bring your own to share too.

Eric Michaels & Chris Kennedy perform @ Book Nook & Java Shop, 11:30 a.m.

White Lake Lenten Luncheon Series continues @ White Lake UMC in Montague, 12 p.m. Guest speaker Donna Morton, pastor of White Lake UCC. All are welcome; free will donations accepted.

Whiteboard Wednesdays series begins @ White Lake Chamber of Commerce, 2 p.m. Open to all businesses and marketing professionals looking to tackle common marketing challenges. Register for the free event at eventbrite.com.

Youth Open Studio @ ACWL-Nuveen Center, 3-5 p.m. Bring in proj-

ects you’re working on or start something new with help from staff.

Oat Bran Boys perform @ North Grove Brewers, 6:30 p.m.

Thursday, April 3

For the Birds event with MSU Extension @ MADL Montague, 3:30 p.m. Learn how birds help our environment and create a birdseed craft. Register @ madl.librarycalendar. com.

Karaoke with DJ Kozmo @ Jimmy'z Pub, 8 p.m.

Live trivia @ Pub One Eleven, 7 p.m.

Friday, April 4

Butterduck performs @ Book Nook & Java Shop, 7 p.m.

Echoes of History: Citizens - Capt. James H. Curran (pt. 1) Community Calendar

By Barbara Bedau Brow Volunteer Contributor

Information indicates that James Henry Curran was born in Michigan Sept. 1, 1859. He came to the White Lake area as the new captain of the Lifesaving Station in July 1908 following the departure of Captain Bedford. According to a newspaper account, on Sept. 17, 1908 the White Lake Life Saving crew proved their alertness in getting to a ship in distress. The large grain barge, P. P. Miller, hailing from South Chicago and bound for Buffalo, got off course in the thick smoky weather and ran ashore near Little Point Sable. Word was sent to both the White Lake and Pentwater crews, but despite the fact that the boat was about twice as far from White Lake as Pentwater, the White Lake crew was the first to arrive and lend assistance to the disabled boat. The Miller was too hard aground to release herself, so the Pere Marquette car ferry was

summoned and after tugging at the stranded vessel several hours, was successful in pulling it off. The crew stayed by the Miller until she was safely off the beach and, after a 17mile trip with their surfboat, reached the station in good shape. Needless to say, Capt. Curran was very pleased with the work of his valiant crew.

To give you some idea of the size of the barge, the Miller was 354 feet in length, 48 feet beam, 28 feet depth and a gross tonnage of 3845. She was owned by J. E. Ball of Buffalo and valued at $275,000. Frank Wenheimer was the captain of the Miller, which carried a crew of 21. There were also five passengers aboard. The Miller had a cargo of corn and wheat valued at $95,000.

On Feb. 3, 1909, Capt. Curran married Mary Conklin-Matthews in Paw Paw. She had previously been married and brought her 14-year-old son with her. They had no children of their own. They ended up divorcing May 27,

•

1920 in Van Buren County. Members of the Life Saving crew in December 1909, when the station closed, included: Surfman Charles

Paget, Ben Aley, Frank Coleman, Henry Vanoort, John W. Johnson, George Robinson and Elsworth LaVille. They are probably the ones pictured above, but who’s who is unknown.

Whitehall NHD team stars, federal cuts loom

By Virginia DeMumbrum Volunteer Contributor

Have you heard about Whitehall’s National History Day team and their incredibly successful record? Led by dedicated coach Jan Klco, this year’s team of 17 students just came back from their district competition, and 15 of them will be going on to the state competition. If past years are any indication, several of these students will also be going on to compete at the national contest in Washington, D.C. At nationals last year, there were just nine entries from Michigan that finished in the top third of their bracket, and four of them were from Whitehall!

libraries all over the state, including college libraries. And that’s something that might not be available to next year’s team.

An executive order signed by President Donald Trump earlier this month seeks to eliminate the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS), the nation’s only federal agency for America’s libraries. As you may know, the majority of revenue for public libraries in Michigan comes from local property taxes. Still, Michigan residents would feel the effects if IMLS funding is lost. The biggest impact would likely be the elimination of MeLCat and the Michigan eLibrary (MeL) which provide services that smaller libraries like ours cannot afford to provide on our own.

libraries outside our own cooperative. You can read more about the impact of the elimination of IMLS in a press release from the Michigan Department of Education, published March 20 and available at bit.ly/imlsmichigan.

Check Out the New Book on the Story Trail

The library is very familiar with the NHD program because the students use the library every year to research their chosen topics. One of the services they rely on heavily is our statewide interlibrary loan service, called MeLCat. MeLCat allows anyone with a library card to borrow books from

MeL provides every Michigan resident access to millions of digital items such as Consumer Reports, auto repair guides, test prep resources, and more. MeLCat is the statewide interlibrary loan service the students rely on for their NHD projects, and many others rely on for access to books they can’t find locally. In 2024, over a million books were shared through MeLCat and more than 19 million electronic items were accessed through MeL. At our library alone, more than 1,000 books a year are borrowed by or from

The snow and ice are gone from the bike trail, and there’s a new story to read! Wonder Walkers is a beautifully illustrated, poetic picture book by Micha Archer that takes readers on a playful journey through the natural world. The story follows two children as they take a walk through the changing seasons, discovering the wonders that nature holds in every corner. Get outside and enjoy the story along the bike path near the library!

FUN FACT: You probably know spring officially began March 20 this year. You might even know that the first day of spring is called the vernal equinox and that the days will get longer and longer from now until the summer solstice. But did you know research shows our sense of smell improves in the spring? All the better to smell those spring flowers!

Spring Break @ Your LibraryMario Kart, Movies and More Spring Break is nearly upon us

and we have lots of activities for kids planned for the week of April 7. On Monday we host an open play day where our meeting room transforms into a playroom from 10-4. Tuesday we’ll have Mario Kart tournaments. Thursday at 5 p.m. is Family Movie Night complete with popcorn generously donated by McCormicks. Friday we’ll have a day of Adventures in Savings run by HarborLight Credit Union. Watch for more details next week on all the fun activities the credit union is planning. We will also have a new Minecraft-themed scavenger hunt set up inside the library for the next few weeks. While you’re here, borrow some books and maybe a new board game to play at home!

DeMumbrum

Circa 1909 - Captain Curran and the Lifesaving Crew. Those who have been identified are Lafe Pugh (back center); Frank Coleman (back right); and Ben Aley (front right).

Courtesy Photo

•

Mirror

Ayden Mendoza breaks school high jump record

NEWS SOURCE

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

Whitehall junior Ayden Mendoza sent a massive early message Wednesday, March 19, at the Grand Valley State Laker Challenge, breaking the Vikings' school high jump record by posting a mark of 6-10.

The leap earned him first place in the event, with teammate Camden Thompson placing second with a mark of 6-4.

The Whitehall record was previously 6-7, originally set by Mark VanBlargan in 1979. Thompson tied that mark at the 2023 state finals when he placed second.

Mendoza ended the 2024 season by high jumping 6-3 at state, tying his season's best and coming one inch shy of his career best. Adding half a foot to his career high in the nine months since is no small feat and has come thanks to a lot of work with Whitehall jumping coach Harold Schneider.

"Ayden has always loved high jump," Whitehall boys coach Kirk Mikkelson said. "His freshman year, he had high hopes of being great at high jump and he had Cam there to train with, who had just set the

freshman school record. Because of his love of that event, Ayden worked extra hard at it. Cam did a great job of keeping him on task and mentoring him."

Mikkelson said by the time he realized what Mendoza was doing - he was making his way through other events - Mendoza had already cleared 6-8 to beat the Whitehall school record. He then saw Mendoza clear both 6-9 and 6-10; very aware of the rarity of Mendoza's accomplishment, fans and athletes alike had eyes on him by the time he cleared 6-10, sending the area into "absolute pandemonium," said Mikkelson.

"I had no words at that point as Ayden was working his magic," Mikkelson added.

Mikkelson is optimistic that Mendoza and Thompson can push each other to great achievement this year and hopes one of them can even take a run at jumping seven feet, which has only been done twice this century at the MHSAA level.

Two other Vikings achieved top-10 finishes outside the high jump. Graysen Olstrom tied for seventh

Montague rips through Grant defense

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

MONTAGUE — Despite it only being March, Montague appeared to be in midseason form Wednesday evening, dominating Grant and securing an 8-0 mercy rule victory, its second such win in two nights.

The performance featured three straight goals at one point by Ava Pelton, who also assisted two other goals. Perhaps most impressively, the Wildcats scored four times off of set plays, the mark of a team that's clicking.

"I just couldn't do it without my teammates," Pelton said. "They always set me up for a perfect shot on goal. Bray(lyn Bultema) and her corners today were really on point. It was easy to get a head or foot on it. I'm just really proud of how we all played today."

The only thing Montague didn't execute to near perfection might have been finishing scoring opportunities, ironic given the 8-0 final score. The Wildcats missed a couple of penalty kicks and narrowly missed scoring several other goals. Still, the creation of so many scoring opportunities was impressive.

Montague (3-2) wasted little time getting rolling, as Pelton assisted Lilly Rice for a goal just over three minutes after kickoff. She then took over the offense herself, scoring a quick goal after the Montague midfielders forced a turnover, then adding two more goals off corner kicks. As Pelton noted, Bultema generally takes the Montague corner kicks and she delivered quality

strikes on several occasions. By Pelton's third goal, it was 4-0 with 15 minutes to go in the first half, and Abby Dyer added the team's fifth

Rockets fall to West Ottawa on windy night

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

MUSKEGON — Howling winds Friday night made Reeths-Puffer's game with West Ottawa a game that would be decided by which team made more of its wind advantage. Thanks to a long, arcing shot that snuck past R-P keeper Sara Carlson and into the net, that team was the visiting Panthers in a tough 2-1 Rocket loss.

"It was going to be a tale of two halves," Rockets' coach Kody Harrell said. "We controlled the game in the first half and they controlled the game in the second half. They were just able to take more of their chances with the

wind at their back...It's like 11 v. 12 out there when you're playing into a strong wind like this. Both teams had to do it for 40 minutes, so no excuses. They were able to be a little more opportunistic when they had the wind at their back."

West Ottawa had the wind at its back in the second half, and just as did the Rockets (0-2) in the first half, they quickly took advantage with a goal in the first five minutes. R-P fended off several West Ottawa attacks as the half progressed, but a long shot by Heather Cicholski from some 30 yards away

Whitehall's Ayden Mendoza celebrates his 6-10 jump at the Grand Valley State Laker Challenge Wednesday, March 19. The leap broke the Vikings' school record of 6-7.

• Courtesy Photo

High jump continued on page 5

Reeths-Puffer's Ashley Bradley (right) tries to keep West Ottawa's Julia Frampton from taking the ball away during Friday's game at R-P. The Rockets lost, 2-1.

Andy Roberts/Mirror

Montague's Abby Dyer heads upfield with the ball during Wednesday's game against Grant. The Wildcats walloped the Tigers, 8-0. • Andy Roberts/Mirror

Montague's Nahia Fernandez protects the ball from a Grant foe during Wednesday's game at Montague. The Wildcats rolled, 8-0. • Andy Roberts/Mirror

Big 'Cats win

Big 'Cats win

tally just a few moments later. As with Pelton's third goal, it was a strike that deflected off Grant defenders and found the back of the net.

Had the Wildcats pushed for it, they could have gotten the mercy rule earlier, but they moved players around a fair amount after taking a big lead, giving reserves some key minutes in prime positions.

Coach Chris Aebig credited the Wildcat defense with sparking the offense, with freshman Callie Peterson a big part of that performance. Grant didn't have any shots on goal in the first half.

"Our offense was set up by our good defense," Aebig said. "Bray dominated the middle of the field for us. Ava controlled the final third for us. She was able to set up goals and score goals of her own. I'm just super proud of all of

High jump

their efforts."

After a 17-minute stretch without a goal after halftime, Montague ripped off three second-half goals in a 12-minute span in the second half to finish the contest. Allyson Balder and Addison Pranger - who moved up from goal to play some forward, giving Emily Earnest time in the net - got on the board in the half, as well as Rice putting in her second goal. That one came off a Pelton free kick.

Bultema said it was important to the team to play to its standard, just as it did the night before in an 11-0 blowout of Wyoming Lee, regardless of the opponent or the weather conditions. (Thankfully, the sun shone for much of Wednesday's game, but it was the second straight day for Montague playing in sub-40 degree temperatures.)

"You can't look over the other

place in the pole vault with a mark of 12-0 to open his sophomore campaign, and Mason Mulnix took eighth in the 60-meter dash, finishing in 7.14 seconds.

Whitehall also finished eighth in two relay races. The team of Andon Palmer, Mulnix, Corde Anderson and Tyler Van Antwerp ran a time of 2:30.95 to take eighth in the 1,200-meter relay, and Palmer, Drew Boeringa, Van Antwerp and Stewart Waters were eighth in the 2,400 relay.

Reeths-Puffer had a good deal of success in the challenge as well. The 1,200-meter relay team of Mason Darke, London Rankin, Marvin Moore and Cole Piper was the top Rocket finisher, placing second in a time of 2:26.7. Darke was also third in the 60-meter

Rockets

caught Carlson off guard with 10:51 to go - the wind likely played tricks on her - and found its way between her and the post for the winning score.

It was a shame the day ended like that for Carlson, who had a strong day in defeat in the team's opener against No. 2 East Grand Rapids and displayed toughness Friday by taking a shot to the chin and staying in the game during the second half.

"She's way too good of a keeper to get beat near post from that far of a shot," Harrell said. "We know that maybe the wind had something to do with that and changed it."

Abby Hill opened the scoring for the Rockets just over four minutes after kickoff with an easy tapin goal off a great setup from teammate Hanna Potts. R-P dominated possession in the first 15 minutes before falling off a bit later, which Harrell said was a similar script to how the team's season opener unfolded. He attributed it in part to the team still working itself into soccer shape after many of the Rockets played winter sports.

"When we applied pressure, we did really well regardless if we were playing with the wind or into the wind," Harrell said. "It's about us getting our soccer legs or soccer lungs, getting our soccer fitness back. We start hot. We put together a good first 15 minutes, and then it drops off, and we start

• Andy Roberts/Mirror

team," Bultema said. "You've got to play them like they're the defending state champion. We're really trying to go far this year because I feel like we deserve it.

"I think we're used to (poor weather). Last year, we played in hail at a

hurdles in a time of 8.36 seconds.

Reeths-Puffer freshman Raquel Walker was a standout performer in the girls challenge, which took place Thursday. Walker, a freshman, placed fifth in long jump with a mark of 17-0.5. She also helped the 1,200-meter relay team finish eighth, along with Jersi Bilek, Addison Mitchelson and Melana Johnson, with a time of 3:01.8.

Cami Kraai was the top finisher for the Whitehall girls, placing 11th in the 1,600 run in a time of 5:27.6.

Viking jumpers star again at Aquinas

Whitehall had an impressive day at Tuesday's Aquinas Indoor Challenge, with the Viking boys finishing second to East Kentwood and the girls team placing seventh.

Just as at Grand Valley State, high jumper Ayden Mendoza was one of the top performers. He followed

Reeths-Puffer's Mallorie Messer (9) goes down while battling West Ottawa's Monroe Nienhuis for possession during Friday's game at R-P. The visiting Panthers won, 2-1. • Andy Roberts/Mirror

sagging off too much. We just gave them way too much space and time to attack."

R-P entered the season with fairly high hopes after returning almost everybody from last season's very young team. To start 0-2 is a minor disappointment, Harrell said, though that has more to do with the way it's happened - a lopsided loss and being unable to hold a lead - than the record itself.

"(It) makes it a little disappointing because we know we're better than (losing to EGR) 6-0, even though that's a great team, and we know we're good enough to hold on to leads and play with the lead," Harrell said. "It's two very good soccer teams, so to go 0-2 is not disappointing, but how we got to 0-2 makes it a little tougher. (But) we're growing. We're de-

veloping. This was 10 times better than Wednesday night."

The Rockets saw some good things from their defensive unit, and Harrell credited Mallorie Messer, Chloe Brainard and Reese Tryska with toughness and leadership. He noted that while R-P is now a pretty experienced team, it's still a young one - only four seniors play big minutes. That creates some optimism that the team could improve quickly through the season.

"A lot of girls really are showing their grit and character early on here, because we have a lot of returners, but there's still a lot of youth within those returners," Harrell said. "It's all about prepping for our best soccer in midMay."

tournament, and it was just terrible, but I think we have to think of it as the other team is playing in the same conditions as us. So we just need to overcome that and really just work together as a team."

up his school record 6-10 from that GVSU meet with a 6-9 jump, taking first place. Teammate Camden Thompson finished third with a 6-3 jump.

Thompson had his own star turn in the 60-meter hurdles, setting a new school indoor record with a time of 8.43 seconds to earn first place. Corde Anderson was close behind, finishing third in a time of 8.64 seconds.

Graysen Olstrom tied for fifth in pole vault with a mark of 12-0, and the 1,600-meter relay team of Tyler Van Antwerp, Andon Palmer, Jevon Hilliard and Mason Mulnix finished fifth in a time of 3:39.7. Mulnix took sixth in the 60-meter dash in a time of 7.18 seconds, and the 3,200 relay team of Stewart Waters, Drew Boeringa, Van Antwerp and Hilliard was sixth in a time of 8:47.

Caden Bowyer rounded out top-10 finishers, placing 10th in shot put with a mark of 42-3.

In the girls' meet, Lexi Poulin earned a first-place finish in high jump, clearing a personal best 4-10. In shot put, the Vikings had the second and third-place finishers, with Aaliyah Jamison in second (34-11) and Evelyn Darke in third (34-0), both with personal bests.

Whitehall had two relay teams take ninth place, with Cami Kraai, Adalyn Britton and Liz Fox part of both teams. The trio joined Isabella Izaguirre to finish ninth in the 1,600 relay (4:45.4) and were ninth along with Ella Nicholson in the 3,200 relay (11:29.0).

Sports in Brief

Baseball

West Ottawa 9-4 Montague 3-3

Bryton Belinger drove in a run in each game, and Eli Petersen had 2 hits in the opener. Belinger struck our 5 in 3 innings of game-one relief, and Petersen fanned four in 3 1/3 innings in game two, which was called in the 4th inning for darkness.

Softball

Cederquist and Johnson each doubled twice.

Girls Soccer

Montague 0-2 at FHE tournament

The Wildcats lost a 9-1 decision to the host Hawks and dropped a tough 1-0 battle to Marshall. Statistics from the games were not reported. East Grand Rapids 5 Reeths-Puffer 0

The Pioneers dominated in shots on goal, 21-2, and blanked the Rocket offense. R-P keeper Sara Carlson made 16 saves.

Montague 11 Wyoming Lee 0

The game was stopped at halftime by mercy rule. Braylyn Bultema, Lilly Rice, Ava Pelton and Abby Dyer each had 2 goals in the win. Grand Haven 1 Reeths-Puffer 0 Sara Carlson

Girls Tennis

Reeths-Puffer 1-2 at Hope College Quad

The Rockets defeated Grant 6-2, but took 8-0 defeats to Zeeland

Lacrosse

Northview 9 Reeths-Puffer 8

Cohen Beck scored 3 goals for the Rockets and Owen Greiner had 2, but R-P lost a close game in its home opener.

Montague's Allyson Balder tries to get to the ball while being kept away from the Grant keeper during Wednesday's game against Montague. The Wildcats won, 8-0.

High hopes for Montague, Whitehall baseball

Montague aims to carry last spring's momentum forward

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

Montague ended the 2024 season with a flourish, stunning top-ranked North Muskegon to win a district championship and taking a ton of momentum into 2025. With the Wildcats returning every starter from last season's team, hopes are high in Montague.

"We should be pretty solid defensively and when the bats catch fire, we will be tough to beat," Montague coach Jeff Moss said. "The X factor in achieving our goals for me is the kids have to buy in, be team players and stay healthy. From there, the sky's the limit."

As you'd expect given the lack of graduation losses, Montague returns a ton of experience. Seniors Ryver Jarka, Bryton Belinger and Kellan Francis spearhead things. Moss said Jarka

Montague's Bryton Belinger takes a hack at a pitch during a game last season. Belinger leads a veteran Wildcat team.

• Andy Roberts/Mirror File

is one of the top center fielders in the West Michigan Conference, and his speed and smarts make him a threat everywhere. Jarka will also do some pitching, as will Belinger, who will man shortstop and anchor the lineup.

"He has undoubtedly the best bat on our team and will be a leader in the dugout and on the field," Moss said of Belinger.

Vikings hope young players can fill big roles this year

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

Whitehall has some big shoes to fill if it's to defend its 2024 district championship. The state's all-time stolen base leader, Kyle Stratton, has graduated, as has the Vikings' top pitcher, Ryne Christensen. Both are now playing college sports. Whitehall also lost expected starter Ryan Goodrich to an injury suffered during football season.

However, the cupboard isn't bare. Whitehall brings back a few key veterans and has high hopes for its up-andcomers.

Brock Morningstar, who made the all-West Michigan Conference Lakes first team last spring, and Evan Thomas look to be the team's conference pitchers, and southpaw catcher Eli Winters is back after a solid freshman campaign. Senior Myles Welch brings experience and will spend some time

on the mound this season.

"We will rely on Morningstar and Thomas to be big arms for us," Whitehall assistant coach Zach Zweigle said. "Welch will pick up lots of non-league innings. Winters returns a solid bat and some valued experience behind the dish."

Up-and-comers to be big factors for softball teams

Whitehall brings veterans back at several key spots

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

Whitehall brings back five major players from last season's team and welcomes a promising group of juniors, creating optimism the Vikings can be real contenders at the conference and district level this spring.

The Vikings won all their league games except for the two against Oakridge last season and would love to take a shot at the West Michigan Conference Lakes title this time around.

Whitehall has a ton of experience at key positions. Megan LeaTrea has spent a lot of time in the circle and is back for her senior season, and Janie Fagan lines up at shortstop. Annabel Kevwitch will play catcher, Bella Fogus is at first base and Lianne Fagan is in center field.

"We anticipate these players will maintain their high level of performance and provide valuable experience," Whitehall coach Kyle McGrew said.

Three starters did graduate - Kier-

Janie Fagan (3) tries to tag out a Hart runner during a game last season. Fagan is back to play shortstop this year.

• Andy Roberts/Mirror File

ra Hyrns, Harper Leon and Muskegon Community College player Taylor Ottinger - but a tough group of juniors has been charged with picking up the baton from them, among them Kierra's sister Tyla Hyrns. Other names to watch include Becca Miller, Ryleigh Smith, Khloe Riley and Jalayah Hall.

"These juniors are showing great promise in the early part of the season, and I'm eager to see their contributions at the varsity level," McGrew said.

The team is looking forward to lean-

on page 7 Wildcat

on page 8

Montague dreaming of district run as new season starts Viking baseball continued on page 7

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

Montague has dreams of a district title this year (it helps that 2024 regional champion Ravenna is no longer in its bracket), though the Wildcats will have to figure out a plan at some key positions to give themselves their best chance at it.

That's because center fielder/pitcher Abby Thommen, shortstop Kennedy Johnson and catcher Chloe Boutell, all cornerstone players, graduated from last season's team.

"Several may be in new positions this coming season as voids have been left by the exiting seniors," Montague coach Randall Mikkelsen said.

There are veterans to lean on, though, including pitcher Reagan Cederquist. Hayden Boutell, another experienced player, may spend time in the circle this year to fill in for Thommen's innings. The 'Cats also bring back infielders Greta Auch and Kayden Johnson, outfielder Jocelyn Rodriguez-Pe-

•

rez and Sophia Beishuizen. Johnson and Auch also may be called upon to pitch, Mikkelsen said.

Montague fans can get used to seeing a big role for Gentry Knop, who was called up midseason last year and is slated to be a key player this year. She brings versatility and great speed to the diamond. Addyson Hall and Emma Trevino are exciting up-and-comers whose bats could add some thump to the lineup.

Montague will get a good look at

on page 8

Whitehall's Brock Morningstar winds up to make a pitch during a game last season. Morningstar is one of the Vikings' top arms. • Andy Roberts/Mirror File

Whitehall's

Montague's Jocelyn Rodriguez-Perez connects on a pitch during a game last season. The 'Cats are eyeing a district run.

Andy Roberts/Mirror File

Police activity this week

Behind the Badge

Whitehall Police Report

March 19

Three people were transported to Trinity Hospital after a traffic crash in the 1200 block of Colby St. Whitehall

Police were dispatched to the scene at 1:35 p.m. when a westbound car struck another westbound vehicle that had stopped on the roadway to turn left. The first vehicle was driven by a 25-year-old Whitehall woman, who did not notice the other was stopped. There were five occupants of the second vehicle, which was driven by a 40-year-old Muskegon woman. Both vehicles sustained only minor damage but the Muskegon woman and her children, aged 6 and 9, complained of pain and were taken to the hospital by Trinity EMS.

At 4:43 p.m. Whitehall Police responded to a report of people possibly camping in a wooded area along the 900 block of Warner St. When the of-

ficer arrived, he located two juveniles in hammocks but did not note any signs of an encampment. The teens said they were just “hanging out” after school. The officer reminded them that the area was private property and they would have to hang in a different place.

March 24

A conflict during the weekend over online gaming devolved into an assault at the middle school. The SRO was called to the school at 12:31 p.m. to investigate the assault, which happened during the transition time between classes. The victim was not a part of the weekend conflict, but the 12-year-old suspect came to believe the victim was going to “jump” him. The two exchanged words in the hall

and the victim went to his class. The suspect followed, but was escorted out by a teacher. While walking toward the office, the suspect ran back into the classroom and assaulted the victim. The principal who was nearby entered the room during the assault and separated the two. The case will be forwarded to Juvenile Court for charges.

March 25

A man came to the Whitehall Police office at 6:20 p.m., wanting to turn himself in on warrants. The man told the officer he was homeless and cold and had nowhere to go. The man was not wanted and the officer later transported him to his father’s house.

Car crashes into Twin Lake home Tuesday morning

A car crashed into a Twin Lake home at the intersection of Staple Road and White Lake Drive around 2 a.m. Tuesday, the Michigan State Police posted on social media outlets.

According to the post, a 19-year-old man failed to stop at a stop sign at the intersection and crashed into the house. The driver was sent to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. It's believed alcohol may have been a factor in the incident.

No one in the house was injured, though according to a WZZM-TV

report, one bedroom's occupant was briefly trapped in the room due to the car making the exit impassable before climbing out a window.

White Lake UMC hosting safety fair April 5

The White Lake United Methodist Church in Montague will host a safety fair Saturday, April 5 from 10 a.m. to noon, encouraging local children to start their spring breaks by learning about keeping safe in a fun atmosphere.

Among other activities, kids will be able to learn

from local police and fire professionals about safe cycling, fishing and swimming and learn what to tell a 9-1-1 dispatcher to ensure they get help as soon as possible if it's needed. Families will receive an information booklet to fill in and keep handy in case of emergency.

Refreshments will be provided, along with a build-your-own snack bag to take home. Attendees can enter a drawing to receive one of three youth bicycle helmets. For more information about the event, contact the White Lake UMC office at 231-894-5789.

Chamber Music Festival announces new 2025 dates

The White Lake Chamber Music Festival recently announced new dates for its 2025 event, the 16th season of providing performances from celebrated performers to local residents. This year's festival will take place July 18-26. Recent festivals took place in early August.

In addition to the date changes, the popular salon concerts at the Book Nook & Java Shop will now take place at 11 a.m. and not 4 p.m. as they had previously. Classical guitar, marimba, duo pianists, viola-piano duo, and a vi-

olin duo will be part of those concerts.

New artistic director Marina Hoover has cultivated a festival lineup that will feature compositions from the big three B's of European classical music - Bach, Beethoven and Brahms. There will also be music from other composers with connections to those three, as well as "gems that should be shared with Festival listeners," said White Lake Music Society director Sondra Cross in a press release.

Evening concerts will feature Beethoven’s Piano Trio Op.1 No.1 and

Wildcat baseball

Bolstering that senior trio is junior Eli Petersen, one of the team's best allaround players. Petersen has been one of the Wildcats' top pitchers throughout his career and that isn't expected to change. Cole Herremans, also a junior, will do a lot of pitching and play the infield.

"We have worked on some things and he looks great to start the season," Moss said. "I expect him to be a big impact player this season."

Montague is blessed with good depth this year too, Moss said, and he believes there will be some surprise players. Cooper Bradley, Fletcher Thommen, Jack De-

Quartet Op. 18 No.4, Brahms Horn Trio Op.40, Bach Double Violin Concerto, Schumann and Brahms Piano Quintets, Mendelssohn Quartet op.13, Brahms songs and more.

A Sunday, July 20 concert at The Playhouse at White Lake will be geared to children and adults alike, as Anne Marie Hoover and international pianists Andrea Swan and Kuang-Hao Huang share classic music to tell the story of Peter and the Wolf and The Sorcerer's Apprentice.

Friday, July 25 will feature a spe-

cial performance by the Windpaintner Woodwind Quintet at the White Lake Golf Club pavilion. The performance will include popular selections and arrangements from opera, musicals and more,

Support from individuals and businesses makes it possible to bring these performances to the White Lake area. For sponsorship opportunities, please contact Cross at 231-329-3056 for more information.

Viking baseball

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gen, Cole Moss, Braylen VanSickle, Conner McKeown, Robbie Smith and Dylan Bailey all have experience and any of them could emerge as difference-makers as the season continues.

The Wildcats should be in the mix in the West Michigan Conference Lakes, and the postseason could mean another tangle with North Muskegon, which is again in Montague's district. The non-conference schedule is tough, with the Norsemen, Forest Hills Eastern, Fruitport and Spring Lake among the scheduled foes.

While the Vikings are relying on several newcomers, some of them are already experienced athletes in other sports, which could shorten the learning curve. Max Krukowski, Cody Manzo and Hunter Peterson are among the familiar names looking to make their marks on the diamond.

Whitehall also will test itself throughout the season. The WMC Lakes should be a tough race; the Vikings were one game behind conference champ Oakridge a year ago. Bigger schools such as Allen-

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dale, Mona Shores, Zeeland West and Traverse City West, as well as area foe Reeths-Puffer, will give Whitehall a good look at high-caliber competition. The Vikings get to host this year's district tournament, which could be an advantage.

"We're looking to compete for a top spot in the conferenceOakridge returns some talented ballplayers - and peak in time to fight through a tough district, including Fruitport and Oakridge," Zweigle said.

A car (right) plowed into a Twin Lake home early Tuesday morning. At left, the home is shown Tuesday afternoon boarded up where the car damaged it.

• Andy Roberts/Mirror and Courtesy Photo from MSP

Whitehall council approves senior millage allocation

New allocation will no longer cover seniors walking at VAC facility

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

WHITEHALL — The Whitehall city council unanimously approved its senior millage allocation of $17,245 at its regular Tuesday meeting, though not without discussion regarding the Viking Athletic Center.

According to council discussion, the allocation will no longer cover costs for seniors who wish to walk at the VAC, a decision made because survey results did not show that as a high priority for a large enough percentage of seniors. Council member Scott Brown, who was on the committee that made the recommendation, said it was unable to procure numbers on the actual usage of the VAC, only who was registered there.

The allocation will be distributed thus: $9,000 to White Lake Community Education, $4,800 to the White Lake Senior Center, $2,445 to AgeWell Services and $1,000 to the city. Council member Tanya Cabala complimented the committee on its work and praised its focus

on combating social isolation among seniors and Meals on Wheels, both of which are part of the AgeWell portion of the allocation.

The council also unanimously approved a contract with strategic planning firm Double Haul Solutions for its Strong Start package to identify Scott Huebler's successor as city manager (Huebler will retire in August). The contract will pay up to $21,495 for services that will include support in identifying candidates, 12 months of executive coaching for the successful candidate, and a 24-month guarantee which will allow the city to procure Double Haul's services again at no additional cost should the next city manager not last at least two years in the position.

Mayor Steven Salter was the last to vote and remarked that he felt the vote should be unanimous given the importance of the city manager position, but did not seem to be in favor of Double Haul or the additional $6,000 for the Strong Start package over its standard package. The rest of the council, though, expressed support for the expenditure, noting the 24-month guarantee (the standard package offered six) and the 12 months of executive coaching (three in the standard package). Council member Tom Ziemer felt the package

would help make it a smooth transition, and Scott Brown said he felt it would be "money well spent." Huebler added that in his experience, the region's city managers and county administrators are a very supportive group and would also be a resource for the next manager.

The council heard a presentation from Amber Marks, a local resident who pitched the possibility of a community garden. The concept has grown in popularity nationwide and would establish an area in which produce would be grown by community members, with the food usable by residents as well as, should participants choose to donate, local food banks. Marks outlined how plots could be allocated within the garden and communal maintenance procedures that would be followed, and she also suggested several possible places such a garden could go.

Marks' presentation was a starting point, as no specific requests were made of the city. The council appeared supportive of the idea, with Cabala suggesting a smaller pilot project to test the concept out before launching a fullsize garden. The council also suggested other potential sites for the garden and organizations with which Marks could partner to help get it going, such as the Dirt Dauber club or the Montague

school FFA group. Marks said she could propose what the garden's budget might look like at a future meeting, and Salter replied that the council could consider that in coming budget discussions.

The council briefly discussed tourism, as Debi Hillebrand stated she's asked the Visit Muskegon group to speak with the council. "We don't want to be a Grand Haven or a Traverse City," Hillebrand said, but tourism is part of a healthy Whitehall. That led to a tangent about short-term rentals, an issue that may come up in a future work session. Currently there's no limit to the practice in Whitehall, but those who participate are supposed to register with the city, which Salter is skeptical is happening. Cabala added that it's a housing issue as well.

Salter's recent Washington, D.C. visit as part of the Great Lakes Task Force was discussed, with the council asking if the mayor's joining it had cost the city money. Huebler said the city was given a no-cost membership for the first year and that the council could explore the value of paying for one in the future. Cabala said she remembers when that organization was formed and is in favor of its mission of Great Lakes preservation.

MCD presents 2023-24 report at annual

By Leslie Bond Strychar White Lake Mirror Contributor

The Muskegon Conservation District (MCD) held its 87th annual meeting Monday evening at the Viking Athletic Center, where it presented its 2023-24 report. The meeting was catered by the Gnarly Heifer and featured a keynote address by Shelby native Mark Peterson. The evening included a detailed review of several completed and upcoming projects in Muskegon and Oceana counties, as well as a closer examination of the plan for the local celery fields. Additionally, the agenda included the renewal of positions for three board members: Dr. George McLaughlin (Board Vice Chair), John Jurcich (Board Secretary/Treasurer), and Dr. Kevin Strychar (Director).

The Muskegon County Conservation

District reported a nearly 20% increase in revenue from 2023 to 2024. The combined revenue of $1.4 million for this period has been allocated to several essential conservation initiatives, including habitat improvement and restoration, invasive species management, county drain projects, water quality monitoring, watershed assessment, erosion control, and shoreline stabilization.

With these funds, staff and volunteers planted thousands of trees and tens of thousands of dune grass culms, and previously unusable land was converted or restored to promote maximum biodiversity. Additionally, many hours of surveys were conducted throughout the county, including the Sodony Bayou survey, which revealed nearly 200 species residing in five distinct ecosystems.

Kali Rush, a biologist from Ducks

Viking softball

ing on its team chemistry to help boost everyone's performance throughout the season.

"While we have goals like winning the conference title and district championship, the most exciting aspect is the team's strong mentality and desire to succeed together," McGrew said. "This cohesive approach will be the X-factor in

continued from page 6

determining our success."

A tough schedule should also help.

The Vikings are excited for their doubleheader against defending league champ Oakridge May 15, which they'll get to host. April tests against Allendale and at the Ross Park Lakeshore Slam tournament should get Whitehall ready for the postseason tests to come.

Unlimited, presented her organization's plans for the White Lake celery fields. Ducks Unlimited acquired most of the privately owned celery farm in 2012, and after the flooding in 2018, the fields transformed into a complete wetland. Consequently, Ducks Unlimited reached an agreement with the remaining landowners and purchased the rest of the land in 2021. Over the next few years, Ducks Unlimited will collaborate with MCD to remove the pumps from the fields, repair the river bend, and restore the area to its native state.

In addition to MCD's direct work on the land and in the water, volunteers, and staff hosted and participated in extensive outreach programs in Muskegon and nearby counties. Youth were introduced to conservation-related careers, children attended dozens of events

meeting

geared toward identifying and utilizing their local resources, and program participants learned how Native tribes used the natural resources in the area. From 2023 to 2024, total participation in MCD outreach programs grew from 3,100 attendees to 4,100.

To conclude the evening's discussion, Mark Peterson from Worldwide Trophy Adventures shared his journey of leaving his family's farm to pursue a career in outdoor sports and conservation. An avid lifelong hunter and basketball coach, Peterson stepped away from agriculture to establish a successful company dedicated to fostering an appreciation for hunting and conservation among young people. In just over a decade, his venture has taken him thousands of miles from his family's farm in Shelby to the forefront of his new industry.

Wildcat softball

potential district opponents during the season, with games against Shelby, Hart and Mason County Central scheduled. The Wildcats will also face off with larger schools West Ottawa, Allendale, Big Rapids and Forest Hills Eastern to stay sharp.

With so many versatile players and some important positions unset-

continued from page 6

tled at the season's start, Mikkelsen said belief in each other will be an important factor for the team.

"Bonding on and off the field, believing in one another and understanding and accepting each player's role on the team (will be key)," Mikkelsen said.

Family is more than blood. It is heart. It is the courage to be present in people’s lives and to bear other people’s burdens.