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Hart City Council votes to open John Gurney Park early

By Sharon Hallack

The Oceana Echo Community Correspondent

HART - It was a unanimous decision of the five Hart City Council members present at their April 8 meeting to reopen John Gurney Park on Tuesday, April 15. This is two weeks and two days earlier than planned. The change was approved with the caveat that campers would need to understand not all park services may be fully available by then.

The action came about as a result of Hart Township resident Tim Collins speaking during public comment. He informed the council he and his wife had paid the park’s seasonal rate last fall in anticipation of selling their home this year. Collins told the council they had a closing date of April 15 and had planned to move into John Gurney, assuming it would be open by then as it had been in years past. Collins claimed he, along with five other people, never received the city’s email communication last fall about the later opening date and that they, along with at least one other couple, have nowhere to go after

April 15. He was coming to the board to see if anything could be done.

Later in the meeting, council member Dean Hodges requested permission from Mayor Amanda Klotz to speak to the issue, and Klotz allowed the change to the agenda. Hodges expressed his sympathy to Collins, saying it was “an unfortunate situation,” and asked the council if they would consider opening the park early, this year only. After some discussion, Hodges made a motion to open the park on April 15 for this year only to accommodate those who misunderstood or were unaware of the park’s May 1 opening date for 2025. Council member Jim Cunningham gave support.

When the city started planning for the 2025 changes at John Gurney Park, the parks department decided to use May 1 through October 31, dates originally set back in 1983, as the dates for park operations. Splane said that timeline determined their park maintenance schedule this past winter and spring. While Splane’s opinion is the city should still adhere to May 1 as the park’s official opening date, he is empathetic to those who didn’t know the timing. According to Splane and Parks and Rec Supervisor Chris TerHaar, all seasonal campers were sent an email in November with the 2025 opening date. Splane said of the 53 emails that were sent out, only three were sent back.

“We realize it’s a change (for campers),” said Klotz. “If campers can give us some latitude and understanding. We don’t want to put undue stress on staff. Maybe we need to have a disclaimer with regards to the opening date.”

TerHaar informed council the cold and windy conditions have hampered some of the work progress at the park, however, he was hopeful they would be

able to get caught up and back on track soon. TerHaar added that the April 15 date was instituted when Freed Management wanted to be more accommodating to their seasonal campers.

TerHaar said he believes he has every seasonal camper’s email now and planned to email everyone on the list the next day about the 2025 opening date. Council member Andrew Mullen recommended that in future email communications, the city use delivery/ read receipts to ensure they are all received/ read. He also requested the city manager CC all council members on any campground notification/communications sent as well.

In other business, the council heard a presentation from Ross Simpson from the Spring Lake company, Eden Lakes, Innovative Water Solutions. He had presented to the BioPure board earlier in the day, sharing the patented technology they have developed to help municipalities with wastewater management. The technology introduces compressed oxygen into lakes, waterways or wastewater treatment facilities to hyper-stimulate bacteria, causing the bacteria to consume a larger percentage of the biosolids. Simpson’s proposal of $32,000 would be used to treat one of the lagoons for 30 days in an effort to reduce the approximately three and a half feet of biosolids, BioPure Superintendent Paul Cutter said. Simpson said he believes the treatment would reduce any biosolids by 60 percent. Cutter, who is always looking for ways to reduce costs at the plant, believes if this treatment proves successful, it could greatly reduce the cost of biosolid trucking, as well as energy and chemical costs.

If the city did decide to contract with Eden Lakes, the lease would be year-round and ful-

ly maintained, meaning all equipment and processes would be the responsibility of their company.

“The idea would be to get away from hauling biosolids,” Cutter said. “You should also see a reduction in odors,” Simpson added.

Splane concluded the presentation by saying the city could have a parallel discussion with Eden Lakes about Hart Lake. The company is currently using this technology in Silver Lake and Simpson claims their company “has turned it around” for that body of water. A formal resolution will be presented to the council for their approval at the April 22 council meeting.

Under action items, the city council approved Resolution 2025-09, vacating Hanson Street East. The 300foot portion of Hanson Street, between Griswold Street and Oceana Drive, was once used as an access to a former butcher shop. The “street” is now privately-owned and does not meet the state’s criteria for a public right-ofway, therefore is not eligible for Act 51 funds.

Council also approved the readoption of the City of Hart’s Master Plan and the City of Hart’s Recreation Plan. According to Splane, both plans have been updated slightly. Both needed to be readopted

at this time to align with the state statute and to keep the city’s Redevelopment Ready Community designation. Splane recommended, however, that the city do a full public reengagement later this year.

During discussion topics, Splane suggested that with the Parks and Rec department turning one year old, it might be a good time to form a Parks and Recreation steering committee. With the council’s approval, he would like to put out a notice requesting community members’ involvement. “I like to think we’d be stirring the pot in a good way,” he said. Councilor Mullen suggested the city reach out to area students who might be interested in joining the committee as well.

Splane told council he would also be putting out a notice requesting members to serve on an upcoming Interim Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA). He said these meetings are usually a “one and done” but it has been nine years since the last ZBA meeting. The interim board will need to include at least one council member, one planning commission member and three residents.

Finally, the council discussed the “Public Comment” item on meeting agendas and whether or not to move it to another place on

the agenda. “It’s an issue that comes up every few years….there are pros and cons,” Splane said.

Councilor Cunningham gave a good explanation to all when he explained the two types of comments that can be included on meeting agendas. One gives meeting attendees the opportunity to address the council on any agenda item as it comes up; the other is the format used currently by the city, where attendees have an opportunity to address the council on any topic they wish, but only during the public comment agenda item.

“I disagree with having a comment period at the end (of a meeting),” Cunningham said. The idea with the first option is it gives an individual the opportunity to ask questions of or make statements to the council prior to them acting on a proposed action item. “It would give people a chance to speak and the council a chance to hear what the community has to say.” The council was in agreement that it would be good to hear from the community, however, they were concerned it could make meetings go longer or be more contentious. Council feels further consideration and discussion are needed before a formal decision can be made.

Area Egg Hunts

April 19 - Walkerville Easter on Main, 9 a.m.

April 19 - Trinity Lutheran Church Easter Egg Hunt, 11 a.m. Lunch will be served

April 19 - Rothbury Community Egg Hunt, Easter Bunny at 11 a.m. and Egg Hunt at 11:30 a.m.

April 19 - Easter on the Pentwater Village Green, 12 p.m.

April 19 - Community Easter Egg Hunt, Oceana County Fairgrounds, 12 p.m.

April 19 - New Era Egg Hunt, New Era Christian School soccer fields, 2 p.m.

This page is brought to you by:

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

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

By Caleb Jackson The Oceana Echo Community Columnist

Joseph Sammons was a man of considerable influence in the early days of Benona. So much so that his particular corner of Little Point Sable was known to the early pioneers as Sammons’ Landing. “Sammons’ Landing is a beautiful spot on the extreme west of the county,” it says in Page’s History of Oceana, “where the lake is not over 60 miles wide, and is at the foot of precipitous bluffs of great height, Mr. Sammons’ residence being about seventy feet above the lake, and the hill behind it, on which his pine peach orchard flourishes, is about seventy feet higher.” But let’s take a closer look at this early pioneer.

Sammons was born in Syracuse, New York in 1822, and he is actually the grandson of a Revolutionary War hero named Jacob Sam-

mons. Jacob Sammons is “said to have erected the first liberty pole ever raised in America,” a feat that promptly landed him in a Canadian jail after being taken prisoner by the British. He then managed to escape the jail and wandered through the wilderness for 17 days, eating nothing but a rattlesnake “which bit him on the leg as he lay down to die.” According to Page’s History, “He cut the bitten part from his leg with his knife, beheaded the serpent, and saved his life by eating it.” Suffice to say Joseph Sammons comes from a very patriotic pedigree.

In 1842, Joseph would move from New York to Chicago, where he began working as a manufacturer, but also served as a sheriff and “made the acquaintance” of President Lincoln. From there he went to Kenosha, Wisconsin, and then finally, in 1869 he settled in Oceana. His previous work experiences were indispensable in this new

pioneer, I am sure, as he launched a very successful mercantile and manufacturing business. That is, until it was “sternly interrupted by the fire fiend, which consumed first his store and then his mill, causing a loss of some $10,000.” If we adjust that for inflation, we are looking at a loss of about $244,000 in today’s market.

Like many of the early settlers along the region of Benona known as the Blackberry Ridge, Sammons found success as a fruit farmer. Page’s History, which was published in 1882, mentions that Sammons had 4,500 trees “including the best varieties of peaches,” 800 plum trees, 300 apple trees, as well as pears, cherries and a grape vineyard. He was married three times, with his first two wives being taken too early by the cold hands of death. His third wife was Betsy Eaton, the daughter of Lorenzo D. Eaton, another very early pioneer who was also taken well before his time. Altogether Sammons had six sons and three daughters, plus one adopted daughter. He died on March 12, 1893 at the age of 70, in Kenosha, Wisconsin where he remains buried.

Oceana Center Grange Agricultural Report for April 2025

By Phil Carter

The Oceana Echo Agricultural Consultant

Spring is trying to ripen in the “Land of Oceana,” but is getting nature’s pushback:

• The calendar says it is spring

• The load limits are off

• Days are getting longer

Let’s just be thankful we don’t have tornadoes, floods and the other natural disasters much of the U.S. is experiencing and move to this month’s topic: fruit tree spraying.

Peaches have already had a dormant spray for peach leaf curl. The focus here is on apples, but it is applicable to other fruits. Prior to the first application:

• Sprayers are brought out of storage, winterizing materials are removed and the tank is cleaned.

• Gearbox oils are changed, belts and hoses are inspected, wheel bearings are packed and the unit is greased. Tire pressures are checked.

• A test run with just water will determine any leaks or problems.

• Water tests are done to determine that no E. coli

is present in the water supply.

Visual apple bud development determines the first spray. Silver tip to ¼ inch green says it’s time to cover. A copper compound to control apple scab and fire blight is used. Hopefully, the wind will be less than 10 MPH to spray. Weather conditions are watched closely as development continues. Fungal diseases need certain temperature and leaf wetness conditions for an infection to occur. Protectant fungicides are applied prior to a wetting event. Standard charts are available, and Michigan State University has six weather stations in Oceana to track rainfall, wetting hours and temperatures to determine infection periods.

Insect development is also tracked to determine sprays. Degree days or heat unit models required for development are well established. MSU enviro-weather tracks these. Orchard scouts utilize various traps to catch bugs, and a Bio-fix is determined, and degree days predict when a spray is needed.

Integrated Pest Management (IPM) uses natural mating disruption to prevent females from egg-laying, thus reducing worm larvae numbers. This reduces the number of insecticides applied to control certain pests.

Insect and disease resistance to crop protection materials is a constant concern for growers. Every attempt is made to limit application of most materials to only two back-to-back sprays. Restrictions on annual rates are also in place.

Record keeping is an important component of crop protection material application. Sprayer operators applying Restricted Use Materials need to be certified. The operator’s name, materials used, rates per acre, EPA registration numbers, wind speed and direction, times applied, and other information are electronically recorded and buyers require this information prior to purchase.

Growers have a lot of backups in decision-making. MSU Tree Fruit Educator Dr. Emily Lavely provides frequent newsletters and Zoom meetings to keep us up to date. Agribusiness crop consultants meet regularly with growers. Crop scouts weekly evaluate conditions in orchards in addition to the MSU Fruit SPRAY Calendar and Pocket Pest guidebook.

Hopefully, this will give some understanding of how fruit growers provide their consumers with the safest, most economical and abundant food supply in the world.

scanning

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

Earth Day 2025 to feature Composting Workshop

“Advocate, Educate, Celebrate” is the GreenWave Initiative of Oceana County’s motto, and this year they will be doing just that at their 4th Annual Earth Day Celebration to take place Saturday, April 26, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Oceana County Council on Aging, located at 4250 W. Tyler Rd., Hart.

From composting and biochar to educational booths and family-friendly activities, organizers cannot wait to share this year’s event with the community.

“We’re thrilled to be able to offer a Composting Workshop featuring Isak Davis, farm manager and educator at Grand Valley State University's Sustainable Agriculture Project. Mr. Davis' presentation will not only highlight backyard composting basics, but how to use vermiculture (cultivating earthworms), as well as carbon and nitrogen sources (i.e. leaf litter) in composting,” said Anne Pawli, one of the event coordinators. Space is limited, so Pawli recommends contacting the GreenWave initiative on Facebook or email to reserve a seat. The Montague Commoners will also be on hand to offer a live biochar demonstration.

Enjoy beeswax candle dipping, hapa zome printing (paper printing with plants and flowers), nature art and egg carton gardens, as well as visiting a variety of educational exhibits, including The Buzz About Bees, Fast Fashion and the Planet, Michigan Vernal Pools, Sustainable Forestry in Michigan and many more!

Refreshments will be available for purchase from local small businesses: The Artisan, Dark Water Roast Coffee and Laughing Tree Bakery.

All activities are free, although donations will be gladly accepted to offset event costs. For more information, contact greenwaveoceana@gmail.com or visit GreenWave-Initiative on Facebook.

April

April 18 - Good Friday Liturgy, 1 p.m.; Stations of the Cross, 2 p.m.; Liturgy of the Lord’s Passion, St. Joseph Catholic Church.

April 18 - Good Friday Service, Rothbury Comm. Church, 2 p.m.

April 18 - Walkerville and Crystal Valley Combined Soup Supper, 5 p.m., and combined Good Friday services, 6 p.m.

April 18 - Good Friday Service, Newman CCC, 7 p.m.

April 18 - Good Friday Service, Christ the King Presby. Church, 7 p.m.

April 18 - Good Friday Service, FBC of Pentwater, 7 p.m.

April 18 - Combined Good Friday Service featuring Bell Choir and Special Music, Hart UMC, 7 p.m.

April 18 - Good Friday Service, New Era Bible Church, 7 p.m.

April 19 - Story Time, Ferry Community Center, 10-11 a.m.

April 19 - Oceana Conservation District Tree Order Pickup, Oceana County Fairgrounds, Hart, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

April 19 - Holy Saturday (Easter Vigil), St. Joseph Church, 8:30 p.m.

April 20 - Easter Sunrise Service, FBC of Hart, Hart Commons, 7 a.m.

April 20 - SonRise Service, Rothbury Community Church, 8 a.m.

April 20 - Early Worship Service, Mears UMC, 8:30 a.m.

April 20 - Easter Sunday Service, New Era CRC, 9:30 a.m.

April 20 - Resurrection Celebration, Rothbury Comm. Church, 10 a.m.

April 20 - Resurrection Service, New Era Bible Church, 10 a.m.

April 20 - Easter Sunday Service, Newman CCC, 10 a.m.

April 20 - Easter Sunday Service, Centenary UMC, 10:30 a.m.

April 20 - Easter Service, Christ the King Presby. Church, 10:30 a.m.

April 20 - Easter Sunday Services, FBC, 9:15 a.m. and 10:50 a.m.

April 20 - Easter Sunday Masses, St. Joseph, 9 a.m.; St. Vincent, 10:30 a.m.

April 20 - Easter Services, Walkerville Wesleyan Church, 10:30 a.m.

April 20 - Resurrection Day Celebration, FBC of Pentwater, 10:30 a.m.

April 21 - After School Movie, Hesp. Comm. Library, 3:30-5 p.m.

April 21 - Movie for Grownups, Hart Community Room, 6 p.m.

April 21 - School Board Meetings for Hart, Hesperia, Pentwater, Shelby, and Walkerville Public Schools, 7 p.m.

April 22 - Earth Day, Hesperia Community Library, 10 a.m.; Tech Time, 1:30-2:30 p.m.; Adult Book Club, 2-3 p.m.

April 24 - Kindergarten-6th grade Spring Program, OCS, 7 p.m.

April 25 - Sensory Play and Story Time, HCL, 10-11 a.m.

April 25 - “The Wonderful Wizard of Oz”, SMS Drama, 7 p.m.

April 25 - Feeding America Food Pantry, Shelby Elementary, 5 p.m.

Apr. 26 - Plant Swap, Hart Area District Library, Hart, 11 a.m.

April 26 - “The Wonderful Wizard of Oz”, SMS Drama, 3:30 p.m.

Shelby Middle School presents “The Wonderful Wizard of Oz”

The Shelby Middle School invites the entire community to their dramatic presentation of “The Wonderful Wizard of Oz,” Friday, April 25 at 7 p.m. and Saturday, April 26 at 3:30 p.m. in the Shelby High School Auditorium, located at 641 N. State St., Shelby. The play, adapted by Laramie Dean from L. Frank Baum, features over 25 sixth through eighth grade students as actors and stage crew.

“This year’s production of ‘The Wonderful Wizard of Oz’ has been such an incredible journey. Our students have truly amazed us with their talent, dedication, and teamwork. It’s been a joy to see familiar faces returning to the stage, as well as welcoming new performers who are discovering the magic of theater for the first time. We’ve had so much fun bringing this story to life, and I couldn’t be prouder of the energy and creativity our cast and crew have poured into every rehearsal,” said Middle School Principal and Director Jessica Danielson. “It has been my honor to direct these students!”

Tickets are $7 for adults and $4 for students and can be reserved by going to the QR code at right.

New Era Christian Reformed Church RUMMAGE

April 24-25 from 9-4

Fill a bag for $1 from 12-4 on April 25. Sale will be at The Avenue Event Center, 4747 First Street in downtown New Era. Donations may be dropped off April 21-23, at the Avenue Event Center from 9-4. Proceeds to the New era Farmers market

Every Friday during Lent (including Good Friday) February 16 - March 29

March 7 - April 18

HCF now nearby Faith Christian Fellowship in downtown Hart

By Sharon Hallack

The Oceana Echo Community Correspondent

This Sunday is Easter Sunday, when many in the community plan to attend church in celebration of the Resurrection of their Lord, Jesus Christ. This year there’s another church in downtown Hart welcoming people to join them in celebration.

Hart Christian Fellowship (HCF), a 22-year-old congregation, was formerly located at the corner of Monroe Road and Oceana Drive in the former Smith Corners United Methodist Church, north of Hart. The church is now leasing the former Hart Congregational United Church of Christ sanctuary at 408 S. State St. Pastor Rob Hambright shared that Hart Christian Fellowship is a non-denominational church with its background in the Pentecostal Church of God. Worship services are at 10 a.m. on Sunday mornings. Their children’s ministry programming, “Super Church,” is available for all children ages 12 and below.

Faith Christian Fellowship, a 30-year-old congregation affiliated with the Missionary Church, is located just two blocks east of Hart Christian Fellowship, at 400 S. Hart St. When asked how best to distinguish

between the two churches, both pastors, Pastor Bill Ryder of Faith Christian Fellowship and Pastor Hambright were in agreement, “We are of the same body of Christ, so we don’t need a distinction there. We are both mainstream Christian denominations, and we both preach the gospel of Jesus Christ. The community is welcome and encouraged to attend either church. As the body of Christ, we should be and want to be building each other up.”

More information about Hart Christian Fellowship is available by calling Pastor Hambright at 231742-0890, their office secretary, Kathy Hughart, at 231-742-2071 or by emailing triumphbyfaith@yahoo.com.

More information about Faith Christian Fellowship is available by calling the church at 231-8731920, emailing faithchristianfellowship4@gmail.

comor visiting their Facebook page, Faith Christian Fellowship a Missionary Church.

The Hart Rotary Club began participating in Michigan’s Adopt-A-Highway program in 1990, the initial year of the program, and has continued picking up trash for 35 years. The club is responsible for cleaning a two-mile strip of US 31 (both east and west sides) starting 2 miles south of Polk Road. On April 12, the club’s Highway Pickup team, pictured above, bagged 25 bags of trash, along with items like tires that were too large to bag. • Contributed

Photo

Hart Christian Fellowship

Faith Christian Fellowship

• Sharon Hallack/Echo

In Loving Memory of our Family, Friends and Neighbors

obituaries

Celebration of Life ~ Sue Ellen Clark

Family and friends are invited to a Celebration of Life service for the late Sue Ellen Clark (Dec. 8, 1945-Dec. 27, 2024) of Hart. The celebration will be Saturday, April 26, 2025 from 1-4 p.m. at the Floradale Condominium Association clubhouse, 704 Parasail Dr., Silver Lake.

Barbara M. Ryan

September 17, 1938 ~ March 25, 2025

Barbara M. Ryan, age 86, of Battle Creek passed away peacefully in her daughter’s home in Wilmington, North Carolina, surrounded by family on March 25, 2025. She was born September 17, 1938 in Shelby Mich., the daughter of Floyd and N. Leone (Ossman) Woodland.

Barbara will be remembered for her resilience, but also for being caring, funny, outgoing, and always an advocate for those in need. She supported her children and grandchildren in any way she could. She had a deep Christian faith and loved life. She always had a twinkle in her beautiful blue eyes.

Barbara loved the small town, Shelby, near Lake Michigan and Silver Lake, where she grew up spending a lot of time at the beach and attended Shelby High School, where she was a cheerleader, member of the marching band and yearbook editor, graduating as valedictorian before moving to Kalamazoo to pursue her RN degree through a scholarship at Western Michigan University while also working for Bronson Hospital. When attending WMU, she met her husband, the love of her life, David Ryan, from Battle Creek. Upon graduation, Barbara began a long, successful nursing career in Kalamazoo, first working for an allergist. Dave and Barbara were married in the spring of 1960 and moved to Marshall, Mich., then to Detroit, where Dave attended law school at U of D. Barbara worked at Henry Ford Hospital as Head Nurse in a pulmonary clinic. After Dave completed his law degree, they moved to Battle Creek, where they spent the rest of their lives, raising two children: Kathy and David.

Barbara continued her career by teaching various nursing classes at Kellogg Community College, taking some time off to raise their young children, and volunteering as president of Visiting Nurses and through the Junior League, she was instrumental in the formation of Safe Place for survivors of domestic violence. She then reignited her career as a Patient Care Coordinator for Good Samaritan Hospice and then Coordinator for the new Hospice Education Center, which allowed her to contribute to the working structure of hospice organizations nationally as she traveled around the country to educate hospices through workshops to ensure that Medicare would pay for their services. This was the work she was most proud of. She then shifted to adolescent psychiatric nursing at Fieldstone Center, enjoying a long career there as a Utilization Review Coordinator for 20+ years.

Barbara grew up in a devout Methodist household, singing in the church choir, and then converting to Catholicism before marrying Dave. They both remained very devoted to the religion, becoming ingrained in St. Philip School and Church. Barbara was an avid tennis player and also liked snow skiing and the occasional water skiing on Gull Lake, where she spent many summers at the Ryan family cottage. She also loved to play any kind of card game, which included a Bridge group. She always dressed nicely, styled her hair and put on jewelry every day. After Dave passed away in 2003, Barbara remained very close to many of their dear friends, enjoying gatherings, dinners out, cards, Bible study and book club. Unfortunately, her physical health began to fail, forcing her to overcome several serious challenges. Still, she kept moving forward, always with a positive attitude, to the amazement of all who knew and loved her. As she became more homebound, she found joy in watching birds, deer, and other wildlife from her sun porch and also greatly loved flowers inside and out. She also had several neighbors who became dear friends. She was also an avid reader and history buff. She enjoyed visiting historical sites and beaches on many family summer vacations.

Barbara is profoundly missed by family and friends who survive her, including her daughter, Kathy (Ralph) Sierra; son, David (Marlo) Ryan; four grandchildren whom she loved and adored, Sam (Brianna) Ryan, Josephine, Charlie and George; her sister, Judy (Aaron) Silvey; sister-in-law, Judy Ryan; step-sister, Alice Camber; and several cousins, nieces and nephews.

In accordance with her wishes, cremation has taken place, and a Funeral Mass will be held at 11 a.m., Saturday, May 17, 2025, at St. Philip Catholic Church, 112 Capital Ave., N.E., Battle Creek, MI 49017, with a luncheon to immediately follow the Mass. Private interment will take place in Fort Custer National Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Lower Cape Fear LifeCare Foundation, 1414 Physicians Dr., Wilmington, NC 28401 or online at lifecare.org., or to the Battle Creek Area Catholic Schools Foundation at https://bcacs.org/donate/.

Arrangements by the Richard A. Henry Funeral Home, www.henryfuneralhome.org

The Hart Tax Increment Finance Authority (TIFA) has selected a winning proposal for its Pitch for the Parcel redevelopment initiative, created to revitalize a prominent and historic property in downtown Hart.

The three-parcel site—located at 408 and 412 S. State St.—includes a former church, a two-story residential home, and a one-story nursery building. Gifted to TIFA in December 2023, the property was entrusted to the board with the hope that a suitable developer would emerge to shape its next chapter and contribute to the growth of downtown Hart.

In response to a public call for proposals, 21 entries were submitted by entrepreneurs, creatives, and developers. After review, five finalists were invited to present their vision live to the TIFA board on April 15:

• Patty Kersjes – Wellness Retreats & Airbnb

• Adam Perysian –Artificery: Event Venue, Garden & Art Center, Airbnb

• Eric Fowler – Bed & Breakfast, Café, and Event Center

• Anthony Lambert – Tasting Room, Wine Production, Retail, Residential, Outdoor Gardens

• Cindy Beth Davis-Dykema – The Monarch: Arts, Culture, Yoga, and Wellness Center

The board selected Davis-Dykema as the winning developer for her visionary plan: The Monarch, a community-focused campus featuring:

• The Sanctuary (Est. 1885): A stained-glass venue for weddings, theatre performances, and large-scale community events (up to 150 guests)

• The Studio (Est. 1956): A glass-encased, year-round yoga studio and hub for the Oceana County Yoga Community

• The House (Est. 1895–1899): A shared space for wellness providers, administrative offices, and future plans for a green grocer and flower bar

As part of the award, Davis-Dykema will have the opportunity to purchase the property for $1, contingent upon her

commitment to meaningful redevelopment.

“This is a chance to honor Hart’s history while investing in its future,” said Nichole Kleiner, Economic & Community Development Director. “We’re especially excited to see the sanctuary come alive with performing arts and community gatherings. The Monarch will be a creative, inclusive, and restorative space that brings lasting value to our community.”

For more information and other development opportunities, contact Nichole Kleiner at nkleiner@cityofhart. org or (231) 923-0920.

PUBLIC NOTICE WEARE TOWNSHIP SPECIAL MEETING

The Weare Township Board will hold a special meeting regarding new Internet providers at the Weare Township Hall on Monday, April 21, 2025 at 7:00 PM.

Melanie Sayles Weare Township Clerk

• On April 21, 1966, a bar crawl in New York’s West Village led to what became known as the “Sip-In,” when Dick Leitsch, Craig Rodwell and John Timmons publicly identified as gay and demanded to be served regardless, defying an unofficial but widespread practice of banning gay customers from bars.

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STRANGE BUT TRUE #12345_20250407

By Lucie Winborne

• On April 23, 1937, Richard Nixon, then a soon-to-be law school graduate, applied for a position with the FBI, but was turned down for reasons that remain unclear. Later, FBI director J. Edgar Hoover would comment that “the FBI’s loss would become the country’s gain.”

FOR RELEASE APRIL 7, 2025

NOW HERE’S A TIP #12345_20250407 FOR RELEASE APRIL 7, 2025

By JoAnn Derson

By Lucie Winborne

• On April 24, 1863, the Union army issued General Orders No. 100, which provided a code of conduct for Federal soldiers and officers in their dealings with Confederate prisoners and civilians. The orders were developed by Prussian immigrant Francis Lieber, whose three sons served during the Civil War.

• On April 25, 1983, the German news magazine Stern announced the discovery of Adolf Hitler’s diaries. They were, however, later exposed as forgeries. Experts believe that Hitler never actually kept a diary.

• Got fresh herbs? Try this drying tip/ car freshener in one: Lay herbs flat on newspaper in your car. Keep windows closed, and after a nice sunny day, you’ll have a delicious-smelling car and dried herbs to store for later dishes.

• “Raised beds are a nice addition to our garden area, but it seems the gophers liked them too. To combat the problem of the beds being attacked from below, we lined them with chicken wire this time, and everything is going really well so far.” — J.J. in Illinois

By Lucie Winborne

• When the Apostle Paul wrote about seeing “through a glass darkly,” there were no glass windows in the GrecoRoman world.

By Lucie Winborne

• There are more trees on earth than stars in our galaxy.

• The Roman Empire didn’t have a Foreign Office, but they did boast a “Bureau of Barbarians.”

By Lucie Winborne

• When the Apostle Paul wrote about seeing “through a glass darkly,” there were no glass windows in the GrecoRoman world.

• Canada has a strategic maple syrup reserve to ensure global supply in case of emergency.

• When the Apostle Paul wrote about seeing “through a glass darkly,” there were no glass windows in the GrecoRoman world.

• There are more trees on earth than stars in our galaxy.

• The Roman Empire didn’t have a Foreign Office, but they did boast a “Bureau of Barbarians.”

• There are more trees on earth than stars in our galaxy.

• Canada has a strategic maple syrup reserve to ensure global supply in case of emergency.

• Actress Angelina Jolie once attempted to hire a hitman to kill her, instead of committing suicide. Fortunately, the would-be assassin successfully talked her out of it by asking her to wait a month.

• The Roman Empire didn’t have a Foreign Office, but they did boast a “Bureau of Barbarians.”

• The largest print photograph ever taken was 111 feet wide and 32 feet high.

• Canada has a strategic maple syrup reserve to ensure global supply in case of emergency.

• In 2008, the Municipality of Florence officially apologized for expelling Dante Alighieri seven centuries earlier.

• On April 26, 1986, nearly a decade after they met at a celebrity tennis tournament, television news reporter Maria Shriver and former bodybuilder Arnold Schwarzenegger were married at St. Francis Xavier Church in Hyannis, Massachusetts. They went on to have four children, but in 2011, it was revealed that Schwarzenegger had fathered another child with the family’s housekeeper, and the couple announced their separation and eventual divorce.

• When starting plants from seeds, you can use an old cupcake pan. Use paper liners or coffee filters to line the cups. Add soil and seeds. Water as necessary. When the seedlings are ready for replanting, simply lift out and break the bottom seal of the paper or filter, and plant as-is in the ground. It’s east to transport them in the pan, and no leaks.

• On April 27, 1913, 13-year-old Mary Phagan was discovered murdered in the basement of the Atlanta, Georgia, pencil factory where she worked. Two notes next to her body attempted (unsuccessfully) to pin the crime on the night watchman, but eventually the factory owner, Leo Frank, was lynched and hanged for it despite a complete lack of implicating evidence. He was posthumously pardoned in 1986.

• Two things your garden should have: a rain barrel and a compost pile. Both are relatively easy to set up, and pay big dividends. You can get a book at your local library on how to set up a compost pile. Some cities will give away rain barrels or hold workshops. Find out today!

• “To keep track of what is planted in your garden, you use garden markers. Make your own by writing the type of flower, plant or herb on a brick or large flat stone. Use permanent marker and cover with clear acrylic if you want it to last longer. You can even use both sides for different seasonal items.” — Z.M. in Georgia

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

• The largest print photograph ever taken was 111 feet wide and 32 feet high.

• In 2008, the Municipality of Florence officially apologized for expelling Dante Alighieri seven centuries earlier.

• A cat’s ability to see well at night is due to its tapetum lucidum, a structure that reflects visible light back through the cat’s retina. It’s also what causes the eyes’ weird “glowing” effect in the dark.

• The largest print photograph ever taken was 111 feet wide and 32 feet high.

• In 2008, the Municipality of Florence officially apologized for expelling Dante Alighieri seven centuries earlier.

• Records suggest that between 1529 and 1532, King Henry VIII gambled away nearly a million pounds, by modern standards.

• Retired Jamaican sprinter Usain Bolt was offered the position of wide receiver in the NFL but declined it due to the hits that NFL players typically take.

• Records suggest that between 1529 and 1532, King Henry VIII gambled away nearly a million pounds, by modern standards.

• Retired Jamaican sprinter Usain Bolt was offered the position of wide receiver in the NFL but declined it due to the hits that NFL players typically take.

• Records suggest that between 1529 and 1532, King Henry VIII gambled away nearly a million pounds, by modern standards.

• “Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch” is the world’s longest train station name. Located in Wales, the moniker has no historical significance, but was created in the 1880s as a marketing ploy to attract tourists!

• Retired Jamaican sprinter Usain Bolt was offered the position of wide receiver in the NFL but declined it due to the hits that NFL players typically take.

• More germs are transferred by shaking hands than kissing.

• Fearing someone would murder him at Alcatraz, Al Capone practiced his banjo in the shower room. ***

• More germs are transferred by shaking hands than kissing.

• Fearing someone would murder him at Alcatraz, Al Capone practiced his banjo in the shower room.

• More germs are transferred by shaking hands than kissing.

***

• Fearing someone would murder him at Alcatraz, Al Capone practiced his banjo in the shower room.

***

TIFA releases Request for Proposal document for Ceres Solution Property

Community input to shape vision for prime location

After collaborating with city officials and gathering feedback from the community, the Tax Increment Finance Authority is proud to announce the release of the Request for Proposals (RFP) for the Ceres Solution property located at 3 E Main Street. This marks a significant milestone in the anticipated development of the 2.6-acre site, a prime location in the heart of downtown, following its sale to Hart’s Tax Increment Finance Authority (TIFA) by Ceres Solutions in 2022. A primary TIFA goal is to stimulate private investment and economic revitalization in the TIFA district, which this RFP will help to accomplish.

In 2023, the TIFA board sought the input of residents and local stakeholders to guide the future of this site. The response from the community called for a blend of market-rate housing and additional retail space, designed to complement the history of the downtown district.

“The input we received from the community was instrumental in shaping the RFP,” said Nichole Kleiner, Economic Development Director. “The support for housing and retail options reinforces the vision we have for a thriving downtown. This project will have a big impact on our community; we’re excited to see this come to life.”

The RFP outlines the city’s vi-

sion for the site, inviting qualified developers to submit proposals that will integrate residential and retail spaces, enhance the downtown area, and contribute to the local economy. The goal is to create a mixed-use development that meets the needs of both current residents and future generations. The RFP serves as a sample document that investors will review to craft their vision as it aligns with the community. TIFA anticipates reviewing submitted proposals in 2025 for recommendation to the planning commission and city council for approval.

The Smith Group, recognized for their expertise in urban planning and development, facilitated this process, ensuring that all feedback was considered and that the development will reflect the values and aspirations of the

community.

“We are honored to have helped guide this important project,” said Kathleen Duffy, Planner at the Smith Group. “This is a pivotal opportunity to shape the future of downtown, and we’re excited to see the development that will emerge from this process.”

The community’s enthusiasm for this project reflects a shared vision for a downtown that is walkable, vibrant, and preserves its historic character. TIFA, in collaboration with city officials, will continue to market the site to developers.

For more information about the RFP and the Ceres Solution property, please visit www. takemetohart.org/ceres or the Michigan Economic Development Corporation’s website at www.miplace.org/redevelopment-ready-sites/rrc-rfq.

Oceana County

Animal Shelter

This friendly guy is Tony (aka Macho Man). He is a lovable 2-year-old pitbull with a friendly and approachable demeanor.

He is a charming pup with a playful and energetic personality, making him a great companion for an active individual or family.

Tony (Macho Man) would thrive in a home where his energetic nature is embraced. An active household with space for play and exercise would be ideal for this young pitbull. His friendly disposition makes him a great fit for families, and his compatibility with other dogs adds to his social charm.

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

Tony

Animal Friends

Hi! I’m Emmaline and these are my seven kits I birthed all on my own last Friday. We will all be ready for our forever homes in about 10 weeks once we are spayed and neutered.

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

Hart Township to receive $600K from more than $8.1M awarded for hosting renewable energy

projects

The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) has announced the fourth round of Renewables Ready Communities Awards (RRCA). This round will support deployment of 1,836 megawatts (MW) of solar power projects – enough clean energy to power more than 1,830,000 Michigan households and businesses.

“Michigan’s Renewables Ready Communities Awards continue to support local communities and our prosperous, healthy, clean energy future,” said EGLE Director Phil Roos. “These awards will enable communities to invest where they see needs in infrastructure, public safety and more, while accelerating the build-out of affordable green power to hundreds of thousands of Michigan residents.”

The RRCA awards program provides flexible funding to local units of government to help fund community improvements and additional services for their residents. Examples include local road and bridge repairs; public safety systems; park and playground enhancements; accessibility accommodations; and upgrades to grounds, energy for public buildings, and streetlights.

The program aims to speed the build-out of largescale renewable energy projects such as wind, solar, and storage by providing these incentives for communities that permit and host the projects. RRCA grants are provided in addition to the tax revenue and community benefits already received by host communities.

The new fourth-round awards total $8,132,500 and support eight local units of government for the following projects:

• $600,000 to Hart Township in Oceana County for the Hart Solar project.

• $2,495,000 to Lee Township in Calhoun County for the Sunfish Solar 1 project and $1,545,000 for the Sunfish Solar 2 project.

• $1,000,000 to Bethel Township in Branch County for the Branch Solar project.

• $750,000 to Watertown Township in Sanilac County for the Watertown Solar project.

• $625,000 to Parma Township in Jackson County for the Jackson County Solar project.

• $570,000 to Meade Township in Huron County for the Silver Creek Solar Park project.

• $297,500 to Barry County for the Spring Creek Solar project.

• $250,000 to Bethany Township in Gratiot County for the Gratiot Solar Project.

The RRCA program’s first round was announced in October 2024, the second round in December 2024, and the third round in January 2025.

Including the new round, awards through the program total more than $20.56 million – over twothirds of its $30 million budget allocation – to 29 counties, cities, and townships across the state’s two peninsulas that are hosting enough solar and battery storage to power approximately 4.3 million households.

An interactive map on the RRCA webpage displays all the Michigan municipalities with renewable energy projects eligible for the RRCA grant. Information on the map includes project size, intended use of award funds, and a dashboard summarizing statistics about the grant.

Monica Owens

REGISTRATION NOTICE FOR SPECIAL ELECTION

TUESDAY, MAY 6, 2025

To the Qualified Electors of the County of Oceana, State of Michigan:

Please Take Notice that any qualified elector who is not already registered, may register to vote at the office of their City/Township Clerk; the office of the County Clerk; a Secretary of State branch office; or other designated state agency Registration forms can also be obtained at mi.gov/vote and mailed to the correct City/Township Clerk. Voters who are already registered may update their registration at www.expressSoS.com.

The last day to register for the Special Election, in any manner other than in person with the local clerk, will be Monday, April 21, 2025.

After this date, anyone who qualifies as an elector may register to vote in person, with proof of residency (MCL 168.497) at their local City/Township Clerk’s Office.

Please Take Notice that the following township and school districts will be voting on the following millage proposals as presented and listed below

WEARE TOWNSHIP MILLAGE RENEWAL PROPOSITION

2.0 MILL FOR ROAD IMPROVEMENT PURPOSES

Full text of the ballot proposition may be obtained at the township office of Weare Township, 6506 North Oceana Drive, Hart, Michigan 49420, telephone: (231) 873-0144. A sample ballot may be viewed at mi.gov/vote.

HART PUBLIC SCHOOLS

GENERAL OBLIGATION UNLIMITED TAX BOND PROPOSAL FOR BUILDING AND SITE PURPOSES IN THE AMOUNT OF NOT TO EXCEED $13,900,000

Full text of the ballot proposal may be obtained at the administrative offices of Hart Public Schools, 301 West Johnson Street, Hart, MI 49420-1081, telephone: (231) 873-6214. A sample ballot may be viewed at mi.gov/vote.

FREMONT PUBLIC SCHOOLS

SINKING FUND MILLAGE RENEWAL PROPOSAL

2.4588 MILLS FOR 10 YEARS

Full text of the ballot proposition may be obtained at the administrative offices of Fremont Public Schools, 450 E. Pine Street, Fremont, Michigan 49412, telephone: (231) 924-2350.

The full proposal language for the above proposals can be obtained from the Oceana County Clerk, each respective Township/City Clerk, or at the website of the Oceana County Clerk at https://oceana.mi.us/departments/county-clerk/elections/upcoming-election-information/

Please Take Notice that for the May 6, 2025 election, some precincts have chosen to consolidate (MCL 168.659). Ferry Township and Leavitt Township will be consolidating with Elbridge Township.

Registered voters for Ferry, Leavitt, and Elbridge Townships will vote at Elbridge Township Hall, 2266 East Polk Road, Hart, MI 49420, or are able to request AV Ballots from Elbridge Township. Shelby Township will be consolidating with Hart Township.

Registered voters for Shelby and Hart Townships will vote at Hart Township Hall, 3437 West Polk Road, Hart, MI 49420, or are able to request AV Ballots from Hart Township. Greenwood Township will be consolidating with Dayton Township, Newaygo County.

Registered voters will vote at Dayton Township Hall, 3215 South Stone Road, Fremont, MI 49412, or are able to request AV Ballots from Greenwood Township.

To request an absentee ballot, please contact your local City/Township Clerk or request online at mi.gov/vote.

TOWNSHIP/CITY CLERK

CRYSTAL TOWNSHIP

Bethany Seymour

1499 E. Hammett Rd. Hart, MI 49420

PH: (231) 855-2065

Saturday, May 3, 2025

7 am – 3 pm

ELBRIDGE TOWNSHIP

Stephanie Van Sickle

2266 E. Polk Rd. Hart, MI 49420

PH: (231) 750-3477

Sunday, May 4, 2025 9 am – 5 pm

GOLDEN TOWNSHIP

Rachel Iteen

5527 W. Fox Rd.

Mears, MI 49436

PH: (231) 873-4413

Saturday, May 3, 2025

6 am – 2 pm

HART TOWNSHIP

Steve Freed

3437 W. Polk Rd. Hart, MI 49420

PH: (231) 873-2734

Sunday, May 4, 2025

10 am – 6 pm

GREENWOOD TOWNSHIP

Linda Hunt

5589 S. 200th Ave.

Hesperia, MI 49421

PH: (231) 854-0202

Sunday, May 4, 2025 9 am – 5 pm

FERRY TOWNSHIP

Chris Ernst

4158 E. M20

Hesperia, MI 49421

PH: (231) 571-8712

Sunday, May 4, 2025

9 am – 5 pm

LEAVITT TOWNSHIP

Naomi Oomen

3715 N. 200th Ave.

Walkerville, MI 49459

PH: (231) 329-5490

Sunday, May 4, 2025

8 am – 4 pm

SHELBY TOWNSHIP

Cathy Anderson

204 N. Michigan Ave.

Shelby, MI 49455

PH: (231) 861-5853

Saturday, May 3, 2025

9 am – 5 pm

WEARE TOWNSHIP

Melanie Sayles

4042 W. Hogan Rd.

Pentwater, MI 49449

PH: (231) 425-6818

Saturday, May 3, 2025 6 am – 10 am

Sunday, May 4, 2025 6 am – 10 am

CITY OF HART

Karla Swihart City Hall

407 S. State St. Hart, MI 49420

PH: (231) 923-0012

Saturday, May 3, 2025 7 am – 3 pm

TO REGISTER AT TIMES OTHER THAN LISTED, PLEASE CONTACT YOUR LOCAL TOWNSHIP CLERK.

Melanie A. Coon Oceana County Clerk

It was a “capital” mistake, and The Oceana Echo wishes to make a “capital” correction. Last week’s article featuring former Shelby resident Thomas Austin as the new Architect of the Capitol was titled “Designing Democracy: Thomas Austin in the Architect of the Capital.” Unfortunately the wrong word was used; it should have been Capitol with an “o,” not Capital with an “a.” Despite our best efforts to proof the article, that one slipped by our entire staff. Our goal has always been to produce a well-written and quality newspaper each week that the community can be proud of. We would like to apologize to our readers, and to Mr. Austin and his office, for this misspelling. We appreciate them for bringing it to our attention. The English language trips us all up from time to time, may this incident help us and others be diligent when writing and to get it right the next time! As a result, we are reprinting this article in its entirety. Thank you all!

Designing Democracy: Shelby native Thomas Austin is the Architect of the Capitol

By Sharon Hallack The Oceana Echo Community Correspondent

On January 20, 2025, millions of Americans, and people the world over, watched as Donald J. Trump and J.D. Vance were sworn in as the 47th President and Vice-President of the United States. The pomp and circumstance of this important national ceremony every four years has been woven into the very fabric of our nation, going back as far as George Washington’s first inauguration in 1789.

As the world watched from their homes and workplaces, unbeknownst to millions, one of the special guests, sitting in the fourth row back was none other than former Shelby native, Thomas E. Austin, 1990 Shelby High School graduate, son of former President and CEO for Shelby State Bank, Jerry (Janice) Austin, and brother to Robert Austin, current Commercial Loan Processor with Shelby State Bank.

Austin, sworn in as the 13th Architect of the Capitol for the United States on June 24, 2024, serves as the leader of the federal agency known by the same name, Architect of the Capitol (AOC). The AOC is responsible for maintaining and preserving the U.S. Capitol’s assets, including the buildings, landscape and treasured artwork.

In 2023, toward the end of a very productive and rewarding 29 years in the United States Army, Austin, a decorated Army Colonel, found himself as the Director of Engineering at Arlington National Cemetery. “I loved that job because it combined my passions of country, engineering/ construction and history in a way that could have a lasting effect for generations to come,” Austin shared. “In that position I was able to oversee the design and construction of the 50-acre Southern Expansion Project adding over 80,000 interment spaces, relocating the operations complex, and integrating the Air Force Memorial into the cemetery. I was also honored to supervise the refurbishment of the Memorial

Amphitheater and the restoration of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier memorial and plaza.”

Austin says the first time he realized he had a penchant for facilities management and historical preservation was in 2013, after a tour in Afghanistan, when he was put in charge of closing an Army installation in Bamberg, Germany. “I thought it would be a ‘one and done’ operation,” Austin recalled. When in fact, it would end up being his calling after he retired from fulltime military service.

Austin was asked to apply for the AOC position in July of 2023 and began what he called “the longest interview of his life.” The following ten and a half months included numerous meetings with staffers and members of congress, background checks and interviews.

On May 22, 2024, after successful completion of the process, Austin was unanimously selected for the position of the 13th AOC by the bicameral Congressional Commission. During his 10-month interview he was also actually working for the AOC on the Canon House Office Building renewal project. “It would make the greatest ‘Undercover Boss’ episode,” Austin said with a laugh. “I was working

with the same people who would learn on May 22 that I had been named as their new boss!”

As the Architect of the Capitol Austin oversees approximately 18.5 million square feet of space across 36 structures and 570 acres. The agency has nearly 2,500 employees and has an annual budget of $1 billion dollars. The Capitol campus is home to 30,000 daily occupants and hosts about 3 million visitors annually, Austin said.

“Outside of my family, the three passions of my life are, service to my country, engineering/construction, and history. When I was approached about the Architect of the Capitol role, I jumped at the chance. I can think of no other job in the world that so perfectly matches my interests, my experience and my desire to be involved in a worthwhile mission. I feel beyond blessed and humbled to lead such an amazing team,” Austin said.

“Serving Congress and the Supreme Court, the AOC has been the builder and steward of Capitol Hill’s landmark buildings, works of art, grounds and gardens since 1876. Our 2,500 employees work round-the-clock, 365 days a year to preserve and maintain the U.S. Capitol, Capitol Grounds, Capitol Visitor Center, House Office Buildings, Library of Congress, Senate Office Buildings, Supreme Court and U.S. Botanic Gardens; literally the home of American democracy,” Austin added.

Due to the dangerously frigid temperatures the week before Inauguration Day, President-elect Trump made the decision to move all ceremonies and celebrations indoors. A decision that was not made lightly; construction of the inaugural platform on the U.S.

Capitol Building’s West Front had been in the planning for a year, with construction beginning in September. Moving an inauguration ceremony indoors, because of weather, has only occurred three times since George Washington’s inauguration on April 30, 1789. The change became an “all hands on deck” operation as the agency prepared for the 180 degree shift.

“Our biggest asset is the people who work every day to serve the home of democracy. I have been so impressed with the dedication of the incredible men and women who are a part of the Architect of the Capitol team. They represent a variety of incredible skills - plasterers, painters, woodworkers, stone mason, plumbers, and engineers - just to name a few,” Austin said proudly.

In reflecting back on that historic day Austin recalls, “The actual construction of the inaugural platform began in September. Dozens of our dedicated AOC staff had put in hundreds of hours creating the historic venue for Inauguration Day using 110,000 linear board feet of lumber, a half million nails, 160,000 pounds of scaffolding and bleachers and 1200 gallons of paint. When we learned on Friday, January 17 that the ceremonies would be moved indoors, we executed our ‘inclement weather plans’, which hadn’t been put into use since Reagan’s second inauguration in 1985. We had good plans, but of course many people had ideas to add, and the Presidential Inaugural Committee had special recommendations to accommodate. We made a lot of things on the fly and our staff worked all night on Friday. But by 6 a.m. on Saturday we had a platform. Not only did the Capitol Rotunda space need to be created, but Emancipa-

tion Hall, in the Capitol Visitor Center, needed to be set up for 1400 guests, with two additional theaters for 500 more. Since then I’ve been asked ‘what is the most special thing you remember about that day?’ I tell people while I was honored to be seated four rows back with members of the Senate and watch the whole thing; and my wife Shannon and I were able to attend the Inaugural Luncheon and meet the President; the thing I’ll always remember was going to the Rotunda at 1 a.m. that Monday morning. I had planned to spend the night in my office on Sunday and had come to check and make sure everything was ok. To stand there on the stage and look at the work we had done, how far we’d come in 48 hours, how blessed I was to be there, standing there in that moment, soaking it all in. That is what I will take with me from that day.”

Inauguration Day 2025 is only one of many wonderful and historical projects Austin has been a part of or will be a part of in the future. “In Exhibition Hall there are five cases on display, each with a scale model of what the capitol campus looked like during different eras. The goal or legacy I’d like to leave is that when I leave this position, we will have started construction on a sixth case and be building a model of what the capitol campus looks like then and will look like for the next 50 years,” concluded Austin. To learn more about the unique role the Architect of the Capitol plays in the preservation of the U.S. Capitol and its physical assets, please visit www.aoc.gov. There one can find information about the history of the office, current projects, programs, photos, maps and information on job opportunities and summer internships.

Austin and members of the JCCIC at the ceremony.

Architect of the Capitol Thomas E. Austin joined by members of his family at his swearing-in, including his nephew, Adam Lange; sister, Anne Lange; daughter, Meredith Austin; wife, Shannon Austin; brother, Robert Austin; and nephew, Owen Lange. • Contributed photo

Hart Baseball, Softball sweep White Cloud

By: Brendan Samuels

The

Oceana Echo Sports Editor

HART – It was a fruitful day for both Hart baseball and softball, as both teams took care of business in doubleheader action with White Cloud Thursday, April 10.

For the baseball team, a pair of hard-fought games saw the Pirates collect wins of 5-4 and 5-3.

In the first game, Aiden Coker saw the mound for the first four innings. Coker allowed four runs in his time, with some coming due to fielding errors rather than errant pitches. Brandon Moul entered in the fifth inning to relieve Coker. Moul didn’t allow a single run, allowing Hart to close out that game on top.

On offense, Coker led the way with two hits, while Halen Boos, Hollis Rockwell IV, Avery Guikema and Joseph Osoria all had one hit.

In game two, it was Rockwell who pitched a complete game. Rockwell was efficient, staying

in control for the game’s entirety. White Cloud pushed three runs across the plate in the third inning to claim a lead, but Hart closed things out with a string of runs in the final two innings.

Rockwell helped his own cause in that second game by smashing two hits for two runs batted in (RBI). Guikema came up with a hit that drove in two runs, while Hiddema launched a home run late in the game.

The Pirates moved to 4-1 (0-1 WMC Rivers) overall on the season with the pair of victories.

Over on the softball field, Hart dominated the Indians, claiming wins by scores of 10-2 and 16-6.

Caydence Bateson was a major factor with the sticks in game one, collecting three hits on four at bats. Bateson knocked in two of the Pirates’ runs on three singles. Nora Chickering and Maryn Klotz also had multi-hit performances, with each getting two RBIs Mackenna Carrier, Reese Smith, Cali Eisenlohr and Emma

Pair of Pirates punch tickets to state finals in weekend track action

By: Brendan Samuels The Oceana Echo Sports Editor

HART – Chase Lorenz and Joselyn Flores punched their tickets to Kent City for Hart’s track and field teams, Saturday, April 12.

The Pirates hosted their annual Hart & Sole Music Invite, adding an important twist. With recent changes to the standards to qualify for the MHSAA state finals, certain pre-approved meets now give athletes the chance to reserve their spot during the regular season.

Flores got it done in the high jump event, posting a personal record (PR) after clearing the bar at five feet, two inches – hitting the exact height needed to qualify for the state finals. Lorenz used his speed to claim first in the 400-meter run, posting a PR time of 50.22 to qualify.

Apart from that very important pair of individual accomplishments, Hart also showed plenty of promise as a team. A young boys roster took fourth on the day, while the girls came in second.

Lorenz earned the boys team plenty of placement points, adding a first place finish in the 200 (23.19) in addition to his state-qualifying finish in the 400. Lorenz was also a member of the 800 relay team, alongside Lyric Fielder, Pablo Ortega-Rubio and Tyler Larios-Mendez, that placed second (1:37.76).

Fielder came close to qualifying for the state finals in the 300 hurdles, claiming third place (44.24). Fielder also joined Ortega-Rubio, Larios-Mendez and Ramseyer for a third place finish in the 1600 relay (3:42.75).

Ramseyer is new to the boys team this year after spending previous springs on the baseball diamond. Ramseyer showed plenty of promise, taking second in the high jump with a mark of 5-10 and claiming second in the 200 (23.90).

Several other athletes earned top five finishes for Hart’s boys team. Jack Slotman took fourth in the 400 (56.16), Cole Slotman placed third in pole vault (9-6) and Alex Hicks came in fifth with a discus toss of 117-1. Rounding out top finishes for the relay teams were Elon Babbin, Ortega-Rubio, Eman Hertzler and Fielder with a fourth-place finish in the 400 relay (47.09) and a fifthplace finish in the 3,200 relay by Grant Ackley, Mason Opalewski, Trevor VanderKodde and Noah Wolff.

On the women’s side, there were plenty of contributors that led to a total of 105 points as a team.

Addi Hovey claimed second in the 100 (12.96) and third in

the 200 (27.73), also joining Lilly Hopkins, LexieBeth Nienhuis and Addison Hain for a first-place finish in the 400 relay (51.50) and Joselyn Flores, Hopkins and Hain for a first-place finish in the 800 relay (1:49.44).

Hain, often hot on the heels of Hovey in the sprinting events, placed fifth in the 100 at 13.68. Hain added another first-place relay finish to her day, joining Hopkins, Flores and Nienhuis for a 4:21.84 finish in the 1,600 relay. Hopkins – a state qualifier for pole vault in 2024 – placed second in that same event with a vault of 8-6. Nienhuis came in right behind, with a vault of 8-0, while Lilly Hopkins placed fifth at 5-6.

Nienhuis also had a second-place finish in the 400 with a time of 1:03.02, with teammate and dual-sport athlete Natalie Rosema placing sixth (1:05.44). Rosema claimed a top-five placement in the 800, taking fourth with a time of 2:42.08. Emery Velat also finished top five in the 800, claiming fifth with a 2:42.98 mark.

Alaina Schaner did some nice work for the Pirates in the distance events, placing fifth in the 1,600 at 12:48.28. Schaner also joined Harriet Kidder, Bryn Riley and Luisa Vander Zwaag for a third place finish in the 3,200 relay (11:05.13).

Shelbie Choponis – another state qualifier in 2024 – was a force to be reckoned with in the throwing events. Choponis claimed fifth in shot put with a throw of 29-4 before taking third in discus at 101-2.

Between the boys and girls teams, Hart boasted an eye-popping 54 PR marks. That recipe could spell even more success as the Pirates continue to improve with their eyes set on another appearance at the D3 state finals in June.

Ruhstorfer, McCallum shine for Hesperia Track Hesperia was unable to get much done at the Hart & Sole Music Invite Saturday, April 12, but sophomore Nate Ruhstorfer and freshman Emily McCallum showed plenty of promise for the Panthers.

Ruhstorfer was the only Hesperia runner to earn a medal, taking third place in the 110-meter hurdles with a time of 17.65. Ruhstorfer also placed 17th in the 1,600 (5:15.78) and seventh as a member of the 1,600 relay with teammates Hunter Tinkham, Jacob Priese and Keegan Roberson. Roberson was the only other athlete from the boys side to place in the top 10 of an event, claiming ninth in the 300 hurdles with a personal record (PR) time of 49.66.

For Hesperia’s girls, it was McCallum who impressed. Taking second place in shot put, McCallum tossed a mark of 32 feet, six inches, before joining the 800 relay team for a sixth place finish

Hart & Sole Invite continued on page 13

HART • HESPERIA • PENTWATER • SHELBY • WALKERVILLE

Hart’s Chase Lorenz (left) and Joselyn Flores (right, receiving the baton), both qualified for the D3 track state finals on Saturday, April 12. • Brendan Samuels/ECHO

Hesperia’s Emily McCallum tosses a shot put. McCallum placed second in the event, earning a medal. • Brendan Samuels/ECHO

Pentwater senior Nathan Macher, joined on either side by his parents, signed his letter of intent to play golf for Aquinas College Wednesday, April 16. • Brendan Samuels/ECHO

Hart’s Reese Smith winds up for a pitch against White Cloud Thursday, April 10. • Brendan Samuels/ECHO

Hart & Sole Invite

alongside Kennedy Mey, Chloe Rickard and Hanna Rickard.

Rickard was the only other Panther on the girls side that came close to an individual finish in the top 10 of any event. Rickard placed 11th in discus with a throw of 61-4.

While they may not have placed high in the standings, 26 Hesperia athletes achieved a PR.

Pentwater track shows continued improvement

While team scores didn’t rank high for Pentwater at the Hart & Sole Music Invite Saturday, April 12, individual improvements were present in droves.

Competing against larger schools like Ludington, Manistee, Traverse City St. Francis and Grand Rapids Track Club doesn’t always leave room for smaller teams like Pentwater to make a dent in the team rankings. Individual performances against stiff competition can breed excellence, however.

Highlighting the day for the Falcons were a pair of medals earned on the boys team. Trey Johnson continued to excel in the long jump, claiming first with a leap of 19 feet, five inches. That mark looks like child’s play when compared to the 20-9.75 mark that Johnson recorded in the Falcons’ season opener in Custer – which ranks first among D4 athletes in the state of Michigan in 2025.

Joining Johnson with a medal of his own was Logan Fatura. Fatura tossed a personal record (PR) in the shot put, launching it 42-4.5 for a third place finish. Fatura also had a PR in discus with a toss of 123-4 that landed him in fourth.

For the girls team, relay squads were able to find success. Both the 3,200-meter relay and the 400 relay team placed fourth. Bailey Case, Matilde Pacifico, Michelle Smith and Lily Smith were the members of the 3,200 relay (12.52.27), while Lauren Davis,

Pirates

Thomas all had one hit.

Smith was in the pitcher’s circle for the first game, tossing a complete game with seven strikeouts. Only four hits and two runs were allowed under Smith’s watch.

Game two got out of hand immediately, after Hart drove in six runs in the opening inning. Chickering had another multi-hit game, leading the way with two for the Pirates. Eisenlohr also added two hits, while Leah Walker had one. Eisenlohr also added a team-leading three RBIs.

Kelsey Copenhaver was the pitcher in that game, going five innings with six

from page 12

Aubrie Adams, Lexi Smith and Belle Powers ran the 400 relay (58.84).

Making vast improvements were Rodney Grondsma and Ben Roberson. Grondsma recorded a shot put of 219.5, which was more than five feet further than his previous PR. Roberson shaved 16 seconds off his 1,600 time (5:47.46), and an additional 20 seconds off his 800 (2:29.80).

In total, Pentwater recorded 16 new PR performances. The Falcons now enter competition with conference opponents, with several West Michigan D League jamborees on the horizon.

Youth shows promise for Walkerville Track & Field

With a team made up of mostly freshman and sophomores, Walkerville’s track and field program is bound to experience exponential growth in 2025. That started with several personal records (PR) at the Hart & Sole Music Invite, Saturday, April 12.

The Wildcats had 22 PR marks recorded on Saturday, highlighted by a pair of top 10 finishes. For the boys, sophomore Logan Hill recorded a PR time of 24.25 in the 110-meter hurdles, slotting him in 10th place. On the girls team, freshman Isabel Babbin had a PR toss of 26 feet, 11 inches in shot put, landing a ninth-place finish. Babbin also recorded three other PRs, including a 56-9 discus toss, a 19.06 finish in the 100 and a 41.98 finish in the 200. Marrison Simpson recorded four PR marks on the day to lead all Wildcats. Simpson competed in the 100, 200, 400, and discus. Collin Mannor set three new PRs in the 100, 400 and long jump, while Nathanial Peterson (shot put and discus), Zander Bajtka (200 and 400), Ayla White (1,600 and discus) and Izybelle Ashbrook (shot put and discus) all set two new PRs.

Walkerville will now look to compete with conference opponents as they enter a stretch of West Michigan D League jamborees.

continued from page 12

strikeouts and four hits allowed.

Hart’s softball team moved to 4-0 (2-0 WMC Rivers) with the wins.

Stark scores late, Shelby girls soccer ties Whitehall

By: Brendan Samuels

The Oceana Echo Sports Editor

SHELBY – Speed was on display for Shelby’s girls soccer team Monday, April 16 against Whitehall. While that didn’t help propel the Tigers to a victory, it prevailed late to earn a 1-1 tie with the Vikings.

The Tigers quickly found themselves in a spot of trouble against Whitehall. The Vikings claimed an early advantage, finding the back of the net in the first five minutes of the game. Whitehall held that lead for the entirety of the first half, as Shelby struggled to gain consistent possession of the ball.

“We struggled for about 10 minutes after (Whitehall) scored that first goal,”

Shelby Head Coach Pete Peterson said. “I have 18 girls that can play soccer, and I haven’t necessarily had that in years past. We’re still trying to figure out who plays best with who, and how to keep everybody fresh.”

Once Shelby gained its composure, the offense started to click. A combination of Kylee Hanson, Kylie Brown and Annabelle Stark started to find their way open in Viking territory. The Tigers started to get more shots on goal as time dwindled in the first half, but a flurry of mistakes kept them from finding a goal.

“Our problem this season has been that we just can’t finish the ball (near the net),” Peterson said. “We’re either overthinking things or just putting the ball to the goalie.”

After nearly 70 minutes of scoreless

soccer, Shelby finally found an answer. Stark – a freshman – used her speed to get through Whitehall’s back line, cutting straight up the middle of the field. With one quick redirect of the ball, Stark placed a quick shot past the Viking keeper to knot things up at 1-1.

That opened the floodgates, as Shelby consistently found chances to attack. Once again, those chances came up empty, ending the day at a stalemate.

“In the second half, I felt defensively we played a lot better,” Peterson said. “We started passing the ball a little better and we got a goal. Our freshman (Stark) was in the right spot and she was able to manufacture something.

“(Stark) is raw. She’s really fast, but she needs more help. We’ve got girls that are really good distributors, but they have to get up there at the same time.”

The tie keeps Shelby without a win on the year. The Tigers now sit at 0-3-1 (00-1 WMC).

Burmeister racks up 29 strikeouts in sweep of North Muskegon

By: Brendan Samuels The Oceana Echo Sports Editor

SHELBY – Another dominant outing in the circle for freshman Jayna Burmeister powered Shelby softball to another unbeaten outing with a sweep of North Muskegon Tuesday, April 15.

It started with a 12-2 victory for Shelby, where Burmeister pitched five straight innings without allowing a run. In fact, North Muskegon only managed to register two hits through the game’s entirety. A big part of that was Burmeister’s ability to rack up strikes, sitting down 15 batters.

Burmeister’s defense was coupled with impressive offense as well, as she led the Tigers with three hits in four atbats. That included three runs batted in (RBI), which was only matched by fellow freshman Izzy Rudat. Rudat ended the game in the sixth inning, crushing a ball over the fence in left field for a home run.

Shelby’s offense as a whole was on fire in game one. Every batter that stepped up to the plate recorded at least one hit.

Joining Burmeister in the multi-hit club for game one were Emma Stovall (two) and Jordan Wolting (two). Jaedyn Allen, Mary Winterhalter, Daniella Zarraga, Stella Springer and Elaina Davis each had one hit.

Burmeister did not exit the pitcher’s circle for game two, continuing to battle with the Norsemen in a 7-1 win. A complete seven-inning game for Burmeister in that contest resulted in 12 strikeouts

against 27 batters faced, allowing just one hit and one run.

Once again, Burmeister led the Tigers on offense with a perfect 3-for-3 mark at the plate. That included two RBIs. Wolting led the team in RBIs, racking up three on two hits. Rudat and Davis were the only other Tigers to collect hits in game two.

Shelby softball now stands at 6-0 (4-0 WMC Rivers), marking a miraculous turnaround from 2024 where the Tigers failed to register a single win.

Shelby freshman Annabelle Stark lines up a shot from the wing. • Brendan Samuels/ECHO

Pentwater’s Trey Johnson leaps toward the sand below, placing first in the long jump for the Falcons. • Brendan Samuels/ECHO

Walkerville’s Isabel Babbin prepares to release a shot put toss. • Brendan Samuels/ECHO

Hart’s Halen Boos dives toward home plate in a 5-3 win over White Cloud Thursday, April 12. • Brendan Samuels/ECHO

Shelby’s Jayna Burmeister prepares to release a pitch during a sweep of North Muskegon Tuesday, April 15. Burmeister recorded 29 strikeouts, pitching 13 innings in the pair of victories. • Brendan Samuels/ECHO

Missed opportunities, makeshift lineup cost Hart soccer in loss to Montague League-best North Muskegon sweeps Shelby baseball

By: Brendan Samuels

The Oceana Echo Sports Editor

HART – Wednesday, April 16 was not the most opportune time for Hart’s girls soccer team to field a roster that was missing three athletes, while two others recovered from injury and illness. A date with one of the conference’s best teams made for an unfortunate recipe that resulted in a 5-0 loss to Montague.

With two players not even on the sideline and Kailey Edenburn serving a suspension from the team’s previous matchup with North Muskegon, Hart already had some holes to fill. Addison Barefoot also entered the game fresh off a bout with the flu, while a hamstring injury limited the Pirates’ most versatile athlete in Olivia Bradley.

All of that meant a lot of shifting for Hart Head Coach Joe Gilbert. The most notable was slotting sophomore Natalie Rosema on the back line, instead of her usual spot at forward.

Rosema and the back line of Faith VanderVlucht and April Chaffee did their best to stave off the Wildcats’ offense. It worked for a few minutes, but Montague quickly found their groove. That led to three goals in the first half, highlighted by two from Abby Dyer and another on a 1-on-1 situation between Braylyn Bultema and Hart keeper Emma Jeffries.

“Natalie did a great job,” Gilbert said. “She let me know ahead of time that if I need her to help fill in, that she was happy to do that. If you watch her in basketball, she’s a dog of a defender. She doesn’t let anybody by her easily.”

With a 3-0 lead at halftime, Hart tried to find a different gear to set up their offense in the second half. Barefoot and Bradley did a nice job in the middle, kicking the ball ahead for Rilynn Porter, who often found herself with room to work in the corner.

“Olivia plays a lot of minutes, but she’s got a pretty good knot in her hamstring that she was battling through,” Gilbert said. “Normally, she’s a 70 minute player, but I want her for the longevity of the season.”

Unfortunately, the offense around Porter struggled to create space for scoring opportunities. The Pirates hope that will develop with a consistent lineup and improved communication.

“Our strikers have to stretch the back line when we’re in the attacking third, to create a gap around the penalty kick spot,” Gilbert said. “Unfortunately we couldn’t quite do that until it was too late. We started to find it towards the end, but (Montague) started to drop people down to stop it.”

The Pirates fell to 0-4-1 with the loss, and now sit at 0-2 in the West Michigan Conference.

Hart freshman Addison Barefoot attempts to split a pair of Montague defenders. • Brendan Samuels/ECHO

By: Brendan Samuels

The Oceana Echo Sports Editor

SHELBY – One of the best baseball squads in the West Michigan Conference (WMC) Rivers Division swept Shelby Tuesday, April 16. The Tigers gave a valiant effort, but ultimately came up short in a pair of losses to North Muskegon.

The Norse made it tough on Shelby in game one, taking a 5-0 advantage in the top of the first inning. The Tigers clawed back however, working to within one by the end of the second inning.

North Muskegon shut the door after that point, shutting down Shelby’s offense completely. The Tigers failed to score another run in that game, while North Muskegon added six more to their total to bring the final tally to 11-4.

DayDay Garcia picked up the loss after six innings of work on the mound, allowing nine runs on 14 hits, and adding eight strikeouts. Eli Kelley worked in a partial inning on the mound, allowing three hits and two runs with one strikeout.

Offensively, Garcia led with two hits and one run batted in (RBI). Kelley and Evan Waller each recorded a hit, while Chase Simon was the only other Tiger to notch an RBI.

The nightcap game was much slower

than the first, resulting in a 5-1 victory in favor of the Norse.

Shelby got out to an early lead, taking a 1-0 advantage in the top of the first, courtesy of a double from Cam Smith. North Muskegon quickly jumped on top in the bottom of the first, never looking back.

Smith pitched six innings, picking up the loss with five runs earned on four hits, adding five strikeouts.

Garcia, Smith and Waller had the Tigers’ only three hits of the second game.

The pair of losses pushed Shelby to 4-2 on the year. The Tigers now sit at 2-2 in the WMC Rivers.

Tournament Champs

Shelby, Hesperia track fall to North Muskegon

By: Brendan Samuels The Oceana Echo Sports Editor

SHELBY – Though Shelby and Hesperia’s track and field teams gave it their all, neither could get the better of North Muskegon Tuesday, April 15.

The Panthers and Norsemen gathered at the Tigers’ home track on Tuesday for a tri meet. North Muskegon’s boys team totalled 99 team points, leaving Shelby (18) and Hesperia (11) in the dust.

While Shelby couldn’t notch a firstplace finish on the boys side, they did excel in the sprinting events. Isaac Garcia posted top-five finishes in both the 100-meter and the 200, finishing in fifth and third respectively. Trey Gauthier also finished fourth in the 100 for the Tigers, while Alvin Espinoza claimed fifth. Hesperia’s Andy Lopez-Garcia posted a personal record (PR) in the 200, running a 25.96.

In the 400, Elijah Dashiell posted a PR time of 56.62 to claim second place,

while Hesperia’s Hunter Tinkham (1:00.79) and Trevor Payne (1:01.60) came in fourth and fifth.

Nate Rushtorfer continued to dominate the hurdles, claiming Hesperia boys’ only top finish of the day. Ruhstorfer ran the 110 hurdles in 17.75.

Shelby’s 400 relay team that qualified for the state finals last season struggled to find their footing on their home track. With two pieces of that relay team

graduating in 2024, Jaylin Henderson and Venancio Cadena-Arvizu took over. Henderson tried his best to anchor the Tigers, but was beaten by a Norse team.

In the field events, Gauthier hopped a new PR of 18 feet, nine inches in the long jump, taking second place. Casey Lamblin claimed second with a PR discus toss of 116-5.5.

The girls teams for Shelby and Hesperia were much closer to North Mus-

kegon. The Norse won with a total of 53 points, while the Tigers followed with 42.5 and Hesperia rounding it out at 36.5.

Shelby’s girls claimed first in the 400 thanks to a PR from Noel Parker (1:14.03) as well as the long jump on a 14-3.75 mark for Nova Gottschalk. The Tigers’ relay teams were also successful. Gottschalk, along with Ava Lamberg, Annabelle Stark and Jade Harris-Anderson, took first in the 400 relay (58.57), before the same quartet took first in the 800 relay (1:59.51).

Kathryn Beyer, Grace Hasenbank, April Luna and Parker also claimed first in the 3,200 relay (12:07.00).

Hesperia found its success in the field events. Emily McCallum continued her impressive run at shot put, tossing a first-place mark of 32-3, while Hanna Rickard claimed first in discus with a throw of 80-4.

Both Shelby and Hesperia track will be back in action on Friday, April 18 when the Panthers host their second annual Small School Invitational.

Shelby’s Jayden Furman catches a fly ball in right field. • Brendan Samuels/ECHO

(Above, left) Shelby’s Jade Harris-Anderson hands the baton to Annabelle Stark in the 400 relay.

(Above, right) Hesperia’s Nate Ruhstorfer leaps over barriers in the 110 hurdles. • Brendan Samuels/ECHO

Hart’s baseball team won the Mohawk Tournament in Morley Saturday, April 12. The Pirates defeated Fremont 4-0 and Morley Stanwood 13-2 to claim the victory. • Brendan Samuels/ECHO

Reflections of our community

White Lake Mirror White Lake Mirror

YOUR LOCALLY OWNED AND OPERATED NONPROFIT NEWS SOURCE

Whitehall tabs Mahoney as next police chief

Roger Squiers

Roger Squiers

retiring

at end of May after 14 years

retiring at end of May after 14 years

By Andy Roberts

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

White Lake Mirror Editor

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

City of Whitehall had the luxury of an easy choice for its next police chief when Roger Squiers decided to set a retirement date of May 31; detective lieutenant Brandon Mahoney will take over the position after that. The decision was publicly announced at the April 8 city council meeting.

The City of Whitehall had the luxury of an easy choice for its next police chief when Roger Squiers decided to set a retirement date of May 31; detective lieutenant Brandon Mahoney will take over the position after that. The decision was publicly announced at the April 8 city council meeting.

Squiers, who took over the chief position in early 2011, came to Whitehall from Owosso, where he'd climbed to the rank of detective sergeant over 20 years and had briefly served as interim chief following a superior's departure. Having moved to Owosso for family reasons - both Squiers and wife Dena's parents lived there as well, and his kids grew up there - he was comfortable,

and initially disinclined to seek the Whitehall position, believing "some retired sergeant" would get it. However, Dena talked him into applying.

"I put in for it, and here we are," Squiers said. "I work with and for a bunch of great people. (I'm) living the dream. I've gotten to fulfill my dream. I started police work when I was 19, and even then I had it in my mind that I wanted to be chief someday to see if my ideas about police work would work."

Squiers' ideas focus on customer service in addition to the dealings with crime that officers by nature have on their docket. There are things he and his officers do - changing thermo-

stat batteries in the middle of the night, answering questions someone visiting the city might have - that aren't technically part of the police's job description, but that he considers part of being a community leader.

"We talk to people on the phone all the time with questions," Squiers said. "People have gotten to where they know they can call the Whitehall police department for what they'd consider a dumb question. It's not a dumb question, though, because they don't know the answer and we might.

"Even (early in my career), I'd do things other police officers would tell me was dumb, that it wasn't my job. I thought that showed a great deal of ar-

rogance, because I want my job to help people."

Squiers relayed "a career-maker" moment that underlined his belief in serving the community that occurred during his Owosso time. A man he previously had arrested for drunk driving made a point to return to the department months later to thank him for doing it, because it was the consequence that made him turn his life around.

Squiers' weekly police reports have been popular with newspaper readers over the years - the Mirror has the feedback to prove it - and those, too, he considers part of his service. Sometimes non-serious events are included to elicit a chuckle from readers, but there are also events Squiers considers important to keep people informed. He cited a recent police report item about a suspicious subject who backed into a

New chief continued on page 2

Local kids ready for Easter after egg hunts

Two local Easter egg hunts over the weekend got kids ready for the final week prior to the April 20 holiday. Elite Air Heating and Cooling hosted a hunt Saturday that featured a visit from the Easter Bunny, as well as door prizes that included bicycles, gift cards and more. The White Lake VFW post hosted an egg hunt of its own Sunday that also featured an Easter Bunny visit and included golden eggs that yielded door prizes for the finders. More egg hunts are scheduled throughout the White Lake and Oceana County areas this weekend; check out our calendar pages for more information.

Squiers Mahoney

The

Squiers Mahoney

egg the weekend got ready for the final week prior to the April 20 holiday. Elite Air Heating and Cooling hosted a hunt Saturday that featured a visit from door that included bicycles, gift cards and more. The White Lake VFW post hosted an egg hunt of its own Sunday that also featured an Easter Bunny visit and included golden eggs that yielded door prizes for the finders. More egg hunts are scheduled throughout the White Lake and Oceana County areas this weekend; check our more information. • Andy Roberts/Mirror Photos

Squiers Mahoney

Montague board presented potential ELA curriculum

By Andy Roberts

White Lake Mirror Editor

MONTAGUE — The Montague school board heard a presentation regarding a potential change to its elementary school english language arts (ELA) curriculum at its regular meeting Monday evening.

The presentation was led by Oehrli Elementary School principal Sandie Lundquist, but also included commentary from teachers who were part of the team that have spent a lot of time during the 2023-24 and 2024-25 school years selecting and piloting two curricula in their classrooms.

The school board will

receive financial documents on the potential change in the next month and will likely take a vote on it at its May meeting.

The potential change has been one Lundquist said she'd heard a lot of feedback in support of making since arriving at Montague for the '23-'24 school year, as she and her teaching staff felt the current curriculum could be improved, especially with regard to consistency across grade levels. She and a team of teachers, helped by a state grant, have spent a lot of time since the beginning of that school year going

New chief

parking spot before entering a local business. That's a move seasoned police officers recognize, but civilians might not, as being one common among those who intend to commit crimes because it makes it harder to identify a license plate.

"While this didn't end up being a crime in Whitehall, it tells people the officers are out there doing the job and paying attention to little things that any other person driving by might totally gloss over," Squiers said. "You're getting protection at night while you're sleeping even though you never see it."

Although Squiers has been in law enforcement some 45 years now, he said retiring wasn't necessarily an easy decision. He felt he could probably continue to do the work for some years longer, but that the department would be best served if he stepped away.

"I've always believed there's a time I just needed to get out of the way," Squiers said. "Could I function in this position another 10 years? Probably, and I know other chiefs that have...I don't have what I used to have. This position needs more energy."

Like Squiers, Mahoney briefly took over much of the job duties of the chief at one point - in 2009, when prior chief Don Hulbert suffered a stroke that led to his retirement from the position. Mahoney applied for the full-time chief position when Squiers ultimately landed it; such a sequence of events can sometimes lead to the runner-up seeking a

through the process of selecting an alternative.

The team used a book called Shifting the Balance: 6 Ways to Bring the Science of Reading into the Balanced Literacy Classroom as a guide as it studied potential alternatives in 2023-24, then met over the summer to select two curricula that would be piloted in 2024-25. To ensure fairness and consistency, teachers from each elementary grade level were part of the pilot program.

The two curricula piloted were called EL Education and Bookworms, and while the team found positives in both, it was "unanimous," accord-

ing to first-grade teacher Tracie Wolffis, in recommending Bookworms, a curriculum that was profiled in Forbes magazine in 2024 as having produced impressive results in school districts nationwide. The teachers were impressed with the program's ease of organization for teachers, which they felt would make a simpler process for onboarding current and future teachers into the curriculum, and also appreciated its focus on student collaboration and engagement.

Assuming the curriculum is approved, a further benefit in selecting Bookworms, according to

the presentation, is that teachers will be able to train in the curriculum directly from its creator, Sharon Walpole, this summer in preparation for the next school year. Coincidentally, the North Muskegon school district is making the same curriculum change, and the two districts are able to make the training sessions work financially by splitting the cost.

Lundquist emphasized how seriously each member of the team took the process of selecting a new curriculum, given that it will be being taught to students for the next several years.

Services, one that will be used at Oehrli and the other at NBC Middle School. The two sets of books consist of 620 combined devices for a cost of just under $190,000. Both were purchased to replace current devices that are approaching the end of their projected life cycles. The larger batch420 Chromebooks - will not arrive until after July 1, but the district is ordering them now to guard against expected price increases.

chief position elsewhere. However, Mahoney said then-mayor Mac Hatch reassured him of his value to the department after that decision.

"I've always enjoyed the White Lake area, from coaching in Montague to being a detective lieutenant in Whitehall," Mahoney said. "There was always some level of disappointment (at not getting the position then, but) I was 35. I think some of the other guys around me were more disappointed than I was."

Squiers said he leaned on Mahoney's experience and local knowledge early in his tenure and has often solicited his feedback over the years. He's always been impressed with Mahoney's leadership qualities, and in turn Mahoney said he always felt comfortable with Squiers, who never viewed Mahoney's internal reputation as a challenge to his authority.

"Any place with an employer/employee dynamic, you have an official leader and an unofficial leader," Squiers said. "You have a person who's on the team but is the one people go to when they have questions or problems, before they go to the boss. Maybe he'll send them to the boss. He's had that leadership role the whole time I've been here. He's already recognized by the officers as being that leader."

Mahoney's installation likely ensures continuity in the police department. Squiers is confident his successor will carry over the things he deems most important - that customer service emphasis - while making the changes that will keep things running smoothly. Mahoney, meanwhile, said getting this job now rather than on his first attempt gives him a more reasoned look at things than would've been possible 15 years ago.

continued from page 1

"When I was 35, there were things that would've really gotten me worked up and gave me some sleepless evenings, longer chats with my wife," Mahoney said. "There's now a different approach to dealing with those things, a calmer head."

Likely nothing said more about the respect Mahoney has cultivated among his co-workers than when he learned he was the only internal candidate to apply for the chief opening after it was posted, something that meant a lot to him.

"To see nobody else put in for it made it feel like they trust me, like in Chief's retirement I'll be able to take the reins and run things smoothly," Mahoney said. "We have a good group we work with now. I'm excited about the future and about the fact that as things come up, I have a great staff that can help keep the city safe."

Elsewhere in the board meeting, the board unanimously approved the 2025-26 school calendar, which will be similar to this year's with one change; midwinter break will now be Monday-Wednesday, Feb. 1618, rather than beginning the preceding Friday, to align with other schools in the Muskegon Area Intermediate School District.

The board also unanimously approved two different purchases for batches of Chromebooks from Sehi Computer

One more purchase unanimously approved was two electric generators at a total cost of $60,548 from Wolverine Power. The generators will be used at NBC as a backup to ensure cafeteria food there wouldn't be damaged by a power outage. The district also has that system in place at the high school but does not yet have one at the Montague Area Childhood Center, though it plans to add one in the future. There will be further costs for installation once the generators are ready, but like the generators themselves, that will be paid for by the district's food service fund.

Saturday, April 19

Egg-cellent Earth Day event @ Rivers Ace Hardware in Whitehall, 11 a.m. Begins with an in-store Easter egg hunt with eggs, prizes and store coupons, followed by an Earth Day event in which kids can plant flower seeds in biodegradable pots.

The Hoppening - White Lake Community Egg Hunt @ Montague Twp. Park, 12 p.m. Separate egg hunts for each age group. Bring two non-perishable food donations to be entered into a drawing for a kids bicycle.

Troy Kaley performs @ North Grove Brewers, 7 p.m.

Sunday, April 20

Easter breakfast @ White Lake Congregational UCC, 9 a.m. All are welcome. To be followed by Easter service at 10:30.

Monday, April 21

Bring Your Pot to Fetch Brewing, 6 p.m. Bring your best Crock-Pot concoctions and a serving spoon to the potluck-style buffet. Fetch will provide dishes and silverware.

Brews & Peruse Market @ North Grove Brewers, 12-5 p.m. Artisan vendors provide a nique craft sale experience.

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

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

Tuesday, April 22

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 23

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

Echoes of History: Vessels - The Schooner Stafford Community Calendar

By Barbara Bedau Brow Volunteer Contributor

In the local newspaper Thursday, Oct. 8, 1888, it was reported that the Schooner Stafford, in tow by the tug Hunter, struck the south pier here while trying to make the harbor. A hole about four feet square was bashed in her side near the bow. All hands turned to the pumps, and she was kept afloat until the tug had run her inside the harbor and onto the north bank of White Lake, where she sank with her bow resting on the shallow bottom of the bank and her stern sunk in about 35 feet of water.

The Stafford was owned by T. D. Stimson of Muskegon and had a capacity of 250,000 feet of lumber. Word was dispatched to Muskegon as soon as possible and Tuesday, Oct. 6, the fire tug Ira O. Smith and the tug Hunter brought two pile drivers and the owner of the vessel to the scene of the accident.

The work of pumping and lifting began at once, after the hole had been battened. After most of the water was removed, chains were passed under the schooner and the drivers began to lift her, but her

bow slipped off the sandbar and she careened back, sinking again. The tugs then drew her into the old channel and soon she was raised and taken to Muskegon for repairs.

Monday night, Oct. 5, the night of the accident, was a very dark night and the vessel’s pilot claimed he could not see the pier lights on account of the tug’s smoke. She struck the pier with a crash, carrying away the heavy timbers at the end, and breaking the tow post off the tug. The timbers on the side of the boat were also broken. The boat hands had plenty of time to clear the cabin before the schooner went down.

The Stafford had been carrying lumber from the Staples & Covell mill docks to Mr. Stimson and was after a cargo of lumber at the time of the accident. The loss to Mr. Stimson was upwards of $1,500 besides the delay in getting the schooner ready to sail again.

And sail again she did. Over the years that followed, she had a few other misadventures until 1928, when she was listed as abandoned.

Youth Open Studio @ ACWL-Nuveen Center, 3-5 p.m. Bring in projects 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 24

Adult Open Studio @ ACWL-Nuveen Center, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Bring studio materials from home or explore available supplies in the classroom.

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

Get ready for White Lake Area Trash Bash April 27

Grab your gloves, gather your crew, and get ready to bash some trash. The White Lake Area Chamber & Visitors Bureau is calling on community members to join Trash Bash 2025, next Sunday, April 27. This is your chance to show your love for the White Lake Area and help keep it clean, green, and pristine.

The event lasts from 1-4 p.m. and will kick off with a meet-up at the White Lake Chamber & Visitor's Bureau, where an action plan will be developed. Volunteers will then be sent along the bike trail, area parks, shoreline spots, and nearby waterways.

Volunteers should come 'dressed for the mess,' due to the likelihood they

will get dirty picking up garbage. Also, please bring sunscreen, gloves and an adventurous spirit.

Trash bags and a large refuse container will be provided.

Those who choose to brave the waterways will be given free kayak rentals by WaterDog Outfitters. Come prepared for cold water and wear dry gear.

Free bike rentals are also available for those cleaning the trails. Trash Bash participants 21 years and over can turn in a full trash bag on the alley side of Jimmy'z Pub for a chance to win a raffle prize.

National Volunteer Appreciation Week - thank you

By Virginia DeMumbrum Volunteer Contributor

It’s National Volunteer Appreciation Week, and we want to extend a giant THANK YOU to our incredible library volunteers. From members of the Friends of the Library group to Rotary Interact and National Honor Society students to retirees who volunteer every week, so many people give so generously of their time to help make our library an even better place. Whether they are shelving books, weeding flower beds, or helping with events, their efforts are the backbone of our success. Our whole community is enriched by their tireless service, and for that we are very grateful.

City to Host Property Tax Education Event

Area residents are invited to attend a short presentation at Whitehall City Hall this week on all things property tax. The program will take place Thursday, April 24, from 5:30-6:30 p.m. Come on out to meet the Muskegon County tax assessor, along with the

treasurers of the City of Whitehall, City of Montague, and Whitehall Township. Topics to be covered include how to read your assessment notice or tax bill, how to calculate your property tax, what the Board of Review is and how it works, and more. Registration is not required for this free event, and light refreshments will be served.

Spring Craft Night at the Library

Adults are invited to celebrate the beauty of spring at the library Monday, April 28, from 5:30-7 p.m. with a fun evening of crafting. Use the materials provided to create your own beautiful spring-themed greeting card — perfect for sharing with friends or family! No crafting knowledge necessary, and no fee. Just bring your creativity and enjoy a delightful night of crafting in good company. Spaces are limited, so be sure to register in advance at wlclib. org/calendar.

FUN FACT: The library we have today was built for about $1.75 million in 2000. It was paid for with a debt millage that ranged from about .25 to .5 mill, or 25 to 50 cents for every thousand dollars of a home’s taxable value. The debt was paid off in 2020. The library also has an operating millage that is part of local property tax bills. In 2024, it was .91 mill, less than a dollar for every thousand dollars of a home’s taxable value.

Books for Babies: Growing Little Readers from the Very Beginning Come discover the joy of reading with your little one! We invite families to participate in Books for Babies, our early literacy program designed especially for children ages 0–3 and their caregivers. Whether you’re a new parent, a seasoned pro, or expecting a little one soon, this program is the perfect way to start building a lifelong love of reading—right from the start. During a short, fun, and interactive visit to the library, you’ll get practical

tips for nurturing your child’s early literacy skills—and you’ll go home with free books to enjoy together. Yes, free books to keep! Books for Babies is open to all families with young children or babies on the way. Visits can be scheduled at your convenience by going to bit.ly/books-for-babies or calling 231-894-9531 ext. 104. This program is made possible thanks to a grant from the Michigan Department of Lifelong Education, Advancement, and Potential, awarded to the Great Start Collaborative of the MAISD.

DeMumbrum

Built in Tonawanda, New York by Parsons & Co., in 1868, the schooner Stafford was 112 feet in length with a 25-foot 6-inch beam and a depth of 9 feet 6 inches.

• Courtesy Photo

NONPROFIT NEWS SOURCE community

Pitchers' duel highlights Montague wins

Petersen's 1-hitter boosts Wildcats to opening victory

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

WHITEHALL — A remarkable pitchers' duel in game one was the highlight of Tuesday's West Michigan Conference Lakes-opening doubleheader, which Montague swept from Whitehall by scores of 1-0 and 10-2.

The Wildcats' Eli Petersen outdueled Brock Morningstar of Whitehall in a strongly pitched game by both in the opener. Petersen allowed just one hit, a sixth-inning single by Noah Morse, and racked up 13 strikeouts against only one walk. Morningstar permitted five hits - Fletcher Thommen led with two - and struck out eight with one walk.

Jack Degen scored the only run of the game in the third inning. After Thommen's leadoff bunt single, Degen reached on a fielder's choice, then stole second base and came around to score on a RBI single by Cole Moss.

• Andy Roberts/Mirror

The Vikings' best scoring chance came in the sixth, when Morse singled and Nate Betz was hit by a pitch. Morningstar's groundout advanced both into scoring position with two outs, but Petersen buckled down and got another strikeout to escape the jam.

"The pitching performances on both ends were masterful in game one," Whitehall assistant coach Zach Zweigle said. "A few key moments de-

termined the outcome of a tough rivalry game."

Game two looked like it would be another close one until the Wildcats (2-4, 2-0 WMC Lakes) broke open a 1-1 game with two runs in the fourth, four in the fifth and three in the sixth. Most of those runs were unearned thanks to

eight Viking miscues in the field.

"We put the ball in play and they made some mistakes, and we capitalized from those mistakes," Montague coach Jeff Moss said.

Baseball sweep

continued on page 5

Viking bats come out roaring in sweep

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

WHITEHALL — Whitehall finally opened its season Tuesday and scored a pair of mercy-rule victories over rival Montague, 16-1 and 17-4.

Previous attempts to open the season were wiped out by weather, while the Wildcats had had two game days. Whitehall coach Kyle McGrew was pleased with the way his team performed given that disadvantage.

"Megan (LeaTrea) pitched great in both games and we had a great day at the plate," McGrew said. "(Montague coach Randall) Mikkelsen is a great coach with a great group of athletes. I'm thankful our girls were willing to step up to the challenge and come up with the win."

Whitehall (2-0, 2-0 West Michigan Conference Lakes) got off to a quick

Softball sweep

continued on page 5

Tight girls' meet opens outdoor track season

Whitehall boys dominate again; both local squads see bright spots

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

MONTAGUE — Whitehall's perennially successful boys team predictably dominated Wednesday's West Michigan Conference Lakes opening tri meet against Montague and Fremont, but the girls' meet saw a very close battle between the three teams, one of which ended in a tie.

The Viking girls tied Fremont, 82-82, and edged out Montague 87-77. The Wildcats fell to Fremont 8978. Whitehall's boys rolled to a 114-49 win over Montague and a 110-65 triumph over the Packers, with Montague's boys losing 113-55 to Fremont.

It was an occasionally uneven performance, with relay teams struggling with handoffs at times, but

much of that was to be expected in the first outdoor meet for both Whitehall and the Wildcats.

"It revealed a lot of things to work on for us," Whitehall girls coach Jeff Bassett said. "I hope we're close to winning these meets. It's fun to have close

meets and have the points matter at the end. It gets exciting. It was pretty good for us overall."

Whitehall's Eli Winters (left) scoops up a Montague bunt to throw to first base during game two of Tuesday's WMC Lakes doubleheader at Whitehall. Vikings pitcher Evan Thomas looks on. Montague won both games, 1-0 and 10-2. • Andy Roberts/Mirror

Whitehall's Janie Fagan (3) goes to the ground in a bid to catch a foul ball during Tuesday's WMC Lakes doubleheader against Montague. Teammate Jersie Peterson looks on. The Vikings scored 16-1 and 17-4 wins. • Andy Roberts/Mirror

Whitehall's Megan LeaTrea winds up for a pitch during Tuesday's doubleheader against Montague. LeaTrea got the win in both games. • Andy Roberts/Mirror

Montague's Eli Pendell (left) tries to tag out Whitehall's Hunter Peterson on a pickoff play at first base during Tuesday's WMC Lakes doubleheader at Whitehall. The Wildcats won both games.

At left, Whitehall's Mason Mulnix races for the finish line ahead of Fremont's Jacob Burns in the 200-meter dash during Wednesday's Montague Tri. At right, Whitehall's Aryah Lewis (right) hands the baton to Paige Johnson in the 800-meter relay. The Viking boys won the tri, and the girls beat Montague and tied Fremont. • Andy Roberts/Mirror

Moran's return to Hart highlights soccer week

•

Softball sweep

start in both games, each time scoring three times in the first inning. Annabel Kevwitch and Janie Fagan opened the scoring by ripping consecutive RBI doubles, and Kevwitch added a two-run single in the second inning as part of a five-run outburst. Peyton Schultz had two hits and two RBI in the win, and Janie Fagan had two RBI. Bella Fogus and Kevwitch each scored four runs and Fagan went across the plate three times.

LeaTrea allowed only two hits and an unearned run in the opener. She did not walk a batter.

Game two lasted six innings to game one's four, but it was all Vikings again. Whitehall manufactured three runs in the first inning and took advantage of Montague miscues to score twice in the second; the 'Cats (0-5, 0-2

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

Montague bounced back big Wednesday night, dominating West Michigan Conference foe Hart from start to finish in a 5-0 victory.

Not only was the game a rebound opportunity following the team's previous defeat against Ludington, it also proved emotional because it marked the first and last game junior Elle Moran will play at Hart following the passing of her father Troy, the former Hart principal, just under a year ago.

With the team already ahead in the second half, Wildcat senior Abby Dyer offered to switch positions with Moran and play defense, giving Moran the chance to score a goal. Thanks to a great assist from teammate Ava Pelton, Moran took advantage of the opportunity, getting on a breakaway and putting away a score.

"Montague's blend of skill, heart and mutual support shined through, making the night not just a victory, but a meaningful tribute to Elle Moran and her father's legacy," Montague coach Chris Aebig said.

Moran's was the last of the five goals scored; Dyer got on the board twice, and Braylyn Bultema and Allyson Balder each scored as well. Keeper Addison Pranger was again terrific between the posts and earned the shutout.

continued from page 4

WMC Lakes) made six errors, and of Whitehall's 17 runs, 10 were unearned. Gentry Knop's RBI double led a four-run third inning that briefly got the Wildcats back in the game, but Whitehall kept scoring.

Baseball sweep

Cooper Bradley delivered a clutch two-out, two-run single in the fourth to break the tie, and Bryton Belinger added on with a RBI double in the sixth. Belinger, Bradley and Cole Herremans each had two hits in the win; Bradley had three RBI, and Petersen and Belinger had two apiece.

Belinger pitched another great game on the mound, striking out 11 and allowing only one hit and two unearned runs. He hit his pitch-count maximum after six innings, so Herremans threw a shutout inning of relief to close it out.

"Overall I am very happy for my squad and looking forward to learning (from) these games and getting better," Moss said.

For Whitehall (1-3, 0-2 WMC

The team showed "remarkable teamwork and determination" throughout the contest, Aebig said, to even its WMC record at 1-1 (4-3 overall).

Whitehall plays Shelby to tie

Whitehall and Shelby played to a 1-1 tie Monday at Shelby to open West Michigan Conference play.

Izzy Causie scored the Vikings' goal four minutes into the game. Shelby's Annabelle Stark evened the score with 14 minutes to play.

Whitehall moved its record to 2-0-1 overall (0-0-1 WMC) with the tie.

Sports in Brief Baseball

Lianne Fagan had two hits, and Kevwitch had a triple and four RBI. Fogus and LeaTrea each drove in two runs. LeaTrea again pitched well, allowing no earned runs on five hits. She struck out six.

from page 4

Lakes), Evan Thomas allowed one earned run in four innings, striking out five and allowing five hits.

"We didn't swing it well tonight, made some defensive er-

rors, and missed opportunities to capitalize with runners in scoring position," Zweigle said. "If you do those things, it's always tough to win baseball games."

Girls Tennis

Ludington

Montague's Ava Pelton (center) hugs teammate Elle Moran after assisting Moran for a goal during the second half of Wednesday's WMC game at Hart. Wildcats Marguerite O'Connell (27), Lilly Rice (9) and Braylyn Bultema join in the celebration. It was an emotional game for Moran, who returned to the Hart fields for the first time since her father Troy, the former Hart principal, passed away last spring.

Brendan Samuels/Mirror

Montague's Abby Dyer sends the ball upfield during Wednesday's WMC game at Hart. Dyer offered to switch positions with teammate Elle Moran in the second half of the game, setting Moran up to score a goal.

• Brendan Samuels/Mirror

At left, Whitehall's Liz Fox (right) keeps Shelby's Zilah Brito away from the ball during Monday's WMC game at Shelby. At right, Whitehall's Kate Beda goes for the ball against Shelby's Alyse Erickson. The teams played to a 1-1 tie.

Brendan Samuels/Mirror

Whitehall's Bella Fogus grins after making an acrobatic pick of a throw at first base during Tuesday's WMC Lakes doubleheader against Montague. Whitehall won both games. • Andy Roberts/Mirror

Montague's Bryton Belinger takes a big hack at a pitch during Tuesday's doubleheader at Whitehall. The 'Cats won both games. • Andy Roberts/Mirror

Whitehall's Peyton Schultz takes a big hack at a pitch during Tuesday's doubleheader against Montague.

• Andy Roberts/Mirror

Whitehall 8 Fremont 0 It was a huge day for the Vikings, who won 7 of the 8 matches in straight sets. Brianna Bentz and Riley Shafer only surrendered one set point in their singles wins, and Izzy Gould/Alivia DeWildt and Addie Broton/ Avareie Bentz also only allowed one set point each in doubles wins.

'Cats get rude welcome back from break

Two early goals give Ludington win over Montague

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

MONTAGUE — Before the season, Montague ID'd its West Michigan Conference opener against Ludington as a key game - not just because the Orioles are good, but also because they would come in with a week's preparation advantage due to the way spring break fell for both schools.

Mentally, the Wildcats appeared up to the task, but two quick first-half goals by the Orioles stood up the rest of the game, and Montague couldn't find the response it needed in a 2-0 defeat.

"It's tough," Montague coach Chris Aebig said. "When you play this quality of an opponent and they had all week last week, a couple games and a couple practices, for us to come back and play against them with the legs we had, I'll take another game against them in about three weeks. We won't get that, but I would take that because I love playing teams like this."

Of the 11 starters Monday, Aebig said nine of them "were literally on beaches two days ago," having taken trips over break. While the Wildcats (3-3, 0-1 WMC) had good attendance at an optional practice Sunday and played well Monday, that week off did seem to manifest physically when a few players went down with leg cramps late in the game.

Track tri

Adalyn Britton was Whitehall's only two-time winner in the girls' meet, picking up victories in the 800 and 1,600-meter runs. Her times were 2:39.3 and 6:08.9.

There was a tie atop the standings in shot put, where both Amanda Cederquist of Montague and Evelyn Darke of Whitehall posted a mark of 32-2; Cederquist's was a personal best. Tiyahna Robinson won the discus (7710) and Lexi Poulin the high jump (4-8) for the Vikings, and Annelyse Schneider's long jump of 13-11.5 took the top spot in that event for the 'Cats.

"I liked all of our field events," Bassett said. "They have been improving, so that's nice to see early in the season."

On the track, Whitehall's Cami Kraai and Montague's Addison Smith each earned a win and a personal best. Kraai's came somewhat by default as she ran the 400-meter dash for the first time, but her time of 1:04.3 was still better than her only previous timed 400 meters, in a relay race as a sophomore. Smith raced the 200 in a time of 29.52 seconds to earn the first-place/ PR double.

Whitehall's boys team, of course,

Elle Moran gets to the ball to keep Ludington's Hestyn Stowe away from the goal during Monday's game at Montague. Ludington won, 2-0.

• Andy Roberts/Mirror

Ludington exploited a defensive mismatch with two goals in a 49-second span late in the first half, with the goals coming from Hestyn Stowe and Eloise Kwietnewski. A planned defensive adjustment had to wait until halftime because the Wildcats hadn't had time to put it into practice much yet; after sliding Elle Moran to the sweeper position for the second half, Montague fared better on that end.

Moran made one of the more remarkable plays of the game in the second half when she was able to knock a Ludington forward off the ball near the goal without committing a foul, averting a scoring chance. Despite being slight in stature, the junior plays tough, Aebig said.

"Elle, pound for pound, is probably one of the best players on the field," Aebig said. "She has speed. She has

continued from page 4

delivered a laundry list of wins. Sprinter Mason Mulnix continued an impressive start to his first track season with wins in both the 100 and 200-meter races, with times of 11.24 and 22.90 seconds, and Andon Palmer was impressive in a win in the 400 with a time of 55.31 seconds.

Camden Thompson was a double winner, taking first in the 110 hurdles (15.71) and the discus (139-9.5), but his most interesting race was a position in the 800 relay, a race he hadn't run before. Handoff struggles kept the Vikes from winning, but the move could pay dividends later in the season as Whitehall tries to fill in the gaps led by graduated stars Malcolm Earvin, Ca'Mar Ready, Trannon Aylor and Kyler Frees.

"Cam is fast," Whitehall boys coach Kirk Mikkelson said. "He's deceptive because he's so long, so his stride covers a lot of ground and it doesn't look like those typical sprinter strides, but he's really fast. We just haven't needed him to do those relays in the past."

Ayden Mendoza led a remarkable high jump board that saw Whitehall put five guys in the top eight, posting a winning height of 6-6. The Vikes also

grit. She has determination, all of those things. She plays with a lot of heart, and you can't ask any more out of any players than to play with heart like she did tonight."

Ludington had three shots on goal that nearly added to its lead in the second half, but keeper Addison Pranger made a diving save to turn back one of them, and the other two narrowly missed posts. Montague's coaches estimated it was about a 10-8 edge for the Orioles in scoring chances.

"I can't ask more out of these girls," Aebig said. "They played so well today. We had four freshmen that were out there, two of them that were starters and two of them that came in reserve roles for us. The future of Montague soccer is looking really bright and I'm

really excited about it, but we owe everything to these seniors, and we need to give it everything we've got to try to be the best versions of ourselves so we can push as far as we can."

The Wildcats, who entered the year with big dreams, should be able to draw extra motivation from the defeat. They have more big tests in the near future, with Hart, Western Michigan Christian and North Muskegon in the next three games.

"We've got a great squad," Aebig said. "Their heads are in the right places...Ludington, North Muskegon (or) Fremont right after spring break is always going to be a tough draw. That's the hand we were dealt. I'm proud of their resilience tonight."

did well in pole vault, where Keegan Frees and Hunter Parsons each went 10-6 to tie for the win; Frees' was a personal best. Whitehall is now up to four vaulters that have proven they can go 10 feet and above. Kal Koehler added a win in long jump (19-4).

"It's going to be a good year," Mikkelson said. "We've got a great coaching staff...They're doing a great job coaching the kids, and we're seeing good results on it."

Montague didn't earn any wins in the boys' meet, but coach Joe Brunson was pleased with the team's work overall, especially the game effort by his distance runners, several of whom ran all the races - 800, 1,600 and 3,200

meters and the 1,600 relay. While the Wildcats didn't run in the 3,200-meter relay, Brunson said they likely will down the line and they hope to take aim at a school record set in 1986.

"I think as we go later in the season, by the nature of our squad, we'll push to prioritize the relays more over the individual events," Brunson said. "I think we'll end up being stronger, relatively speaking, in the relays than the individual events.

"We have a great crew, good attitudes. It's a hard-working group this year. We're young as far as our real ages, but also our experience. I think as the season progresses, they'll make a lot of improvement."

Auditions coming for Playhouse's summer musical

The White Lake Dramatic Club will host auditions for this summer's volunteer production of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat next Tuesday and Wednesday, April 22-23, both from 6-9 p.m.

The musical, the highlight of this year's Summer Theatre Festival, brings the Biblical story of Joseph to life with vibrant costumes and songs like Any Dream Will Do and Go, Go, Go Joseph.

The performances will take place July 25-27 and Aug. 1-3.

Those interested in auditioning should arrive promptly by 6 p.m. on audition days and plan to remain until dismissed. Auditioners should prepare a 32-count (approximately a minute) of a Broadway song that shows off their vocal style, should bring their sheet music, and wear comfortable clothes.

The production features six princi-

pal and 12 featured characters, including a narrator, Joseph and his brothers and father, and others. There is also an ensemble chorus and youth choir that will be part of the production.

Video auditions will be accepted but must be sent in by Monday, April 21 at 5 p.m to beaman@cityofwhitehall.org. Video auditions should include movement.

The planned rehearsal schedule

will be Monday-Thursday from June 9 to July 17 from 7:30-10 p.m., with children's chorus meeting Mondays and Thursdays from 7:30-8:30 p.m. until closer to show week, when rehearsals will increase. Tech (rehearsal) week will be July 21-24, with no absences permitted that week.

Montague's Braylyn Bultema (8) and Elle Moran line up to defend a corner kick as Ludington's Kylee Johnson (9) and Elianna Jeruzal get in position to make a play during Monday's WMC game at Montague. The Wildcats lost, 2-0.

• Andy Roberts/Mirror

Montague's

At left, Whitehall's Caden Bowyer winds up for his shot put attempt during Wednesday's Montague Tri. At right, the Wildcats' Cadence Fox lands in the long jump pit during the tri. • Andy Roberts/Mirror

Rothbury council turns down Flock camera trial

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

ROTHBURY — The Rothbury village council unanimously turned down an offer from the Oceana County Sheriff's Department to participate in a three-month free trial with automated Flock security cameras during its regular meeting Tuesday night.

The council, as well as police chief Ethan Walker, gave several reasons for its decision not to participate. From a financial perspective, the council felt

the deal made little sense because the department made clear it would not be financing use of the cameras, which cost close to $3,000 per year per unit to operate, beyond the free trial period. The costs include cloud-based storage and maintenance, and the cameras capture vehicle information, including license plates.

Walker added that the information captured by the cameras, which store information for 30 days, would be accessible by federal law enforcement entities. He said with the migrant pop-

ulation in the county and recent concerns about the U.S.'s deportation of immigrants, participating in the program gave him pause "personally and professionally."

The council unanimously approved its participation in this summer's Montague schools meal distribution program. It was noted that meals will not be distributed June 17, the week of the Electric Forest festival, but all other scheduled Tuesdays will again feature meal pickup.

The upcoming Czarny Park im-

provements were briefly discussed as well, as the council unanimously approved the terms of the state Department of Natural Resources grant that will in part fund the improvements (the village is required to provide matching funds). The project is not expected to begin construction for another year, as several steps still need to be completed, including vendor selection and other "red tape" items, said council member Denise Kurdziel.

Residents invited to share environmental feedback

Community members are invited to take part in preserving the rich environmental history of White Lake at an upcoming open house hosted by former columnist and longtime environmental advocate Tanya Cabala and environmental scientist Dr. Rick Rediske.

The event will take place Sunday, April 27 at the Book Nook & Java Shop from 3-5 p.m.

Cabala and Rediske are co-author-

ing a book about White Lake’s environmental past and present, and they’re asking for help from those who know it best: the people who’ve lived, worked, played, and explored near its shores.

The event is informal and welcoming, offering attendees the chance to share personal memories and stories; bring photos or documents to be scanned; contribute to a community memory wall; and connect with neigh-

bors over cookies and coffee.

“We’re especially interested in everyday experiences, how the lake has touched your life,” said Cabala in a press release. “This project is about weaving together personal and environmental history, and it can only be done with the community’s voice at the center.”

“We’ve studied the environmental restoration of White Lake for decades,”

Rediske added in the release. “But numbers and reports only tell part of the story. We want to understand how the lake’s transformation has affected people’s lives and how their actions helped shape its recovery.”

All are welcome, and no RSVP is needed. For more information, contact Cabala at tcabala@wmeac.org or 231798-5196.

Montague Commoners wrap up sugarbush season

By Madison Lajewski White Lake Mirror Writer

The Montague Commoners wrapped up their 2025 sugarbush season last week. This year, the group, along with 36 volunteers, produced just below six gallons of syrup. The organization dedicated almost 400 hours to the tapping of maple trees, splitting wood and syrup boils. Wiley Fry, a leader of the Montague Commoners, wanted to inform people in the community who are not used to tapping trees about what not to do during the

“offseason.”

Fry said it is very important to not plug the holes that are drilled for tapping in the maple trees.

“Trees are able to heal tapping holes pretty easily over the course of 6-12 months,” Fry said. “The cambium layer of the tree grows over the wound and seals it shut. But when newbie tappers or well-meaning bystanders try to plug a hole, it traps bacteria inside the tree and blocks the cambium layer from closing. It's sort of like giving the tree a splinter, and trees don't have any way to get that splinter out. So while it

HarborLight Journey to Savings caps spring break in style

HarborLight Credit Union hosted the Journey to Savings at the White Lake Community Library last Friday. Kids accumulated "Birdie Bucks," which could be used to enter to win door prizes. • Andy Roberts/Mirror Photos

might seem a little counterintuitive to leave sap leaking out at the end of the season, it's actually what's best for the tree.”

The Commoners will celebrate the end of their season Saturday, April 19.

Volunteers and community members can meet at the Trailway Campground pavilion at 1 p.m. Acorn pancakes and

syrup produced from this year's season will be provided. Volunteers who helped throughout the season will eat for free, while community members are encouraged to donate $5-10. Volunteers this season will also then receive their own personal share of this year's syrup and a Montague Commoners t-shirt.

Police activity this week

Behind the Badge

Whitehall Police Report

April 9

Whitehall Police were dispatched to the 3200 block of Colby St. to assist as there were no other officers close to a “slumper” call. Workers at a business noticed a person “passed out” in a car in the parking lot. When the officer arrived at the 3 p.m. call, he was able to wake the person, who had left a friend at the doctor and was waiting for the end of the appointment. The 33-yearold Muskegon resident told the officer she took medication on an empty stomach, which made her drowsy. After the woman was evaluated medically, an assisting officer picked up the friend and the friend was allowed to drive from the scene.

At 6:05 p.m. Whitehall Police responded to a noise complaint in the 1100 block of Colby St. The caller reported the upstairs neighbor was “banging around,” but when the officer arrived, all he heard was a vacuum cleaner running. The officer soon learned there was an ongoing dispute between the two residents. No further action was taken.

Whitehall officers went to check on the well-being of a resident in the 1100 block of Colby St. Police were called at 8:30 p.m. when other residents of the building noticed that there were packages at a door and the person had not

been seen all day and there had been a recent medical call there. Concerned for the safety of the person, the officer contacted the apartment management and were given permission to enter. The officer forced entry and found the apartment empty. The officer repaired and secured the door before leaving. It was later discovered that the person was in the hospital at that time.

April 10

A resident of Oceana County came to the police office to report someone had taken almost all of the money out of her account at the credit union. The victim was out of state in late March when someone went to the credit union, posing as the victim and was given a large amount of cash. The ongoing investigation is leading to an out-of-state resident who has traveled to several states and town and committing several similar frauds. Anyone with information is asked to call Whitehall Police.

April 11

Whitehall Police are looking for a black sedan with possible damage to the passenger side that was involved in a hit-and-run crash in the 1000 block of Colby St. At 5 p.m. Whitehall Police were called to the scene where the 26-year-old driver was waiting. The Fruitland Township man reported he was driving several residents of the group home where he works and they were heading east to go shopping. The van he was driving was in the curb lane when the black car came alongside and swerved into his lane to attempt to pass another vehicle in the inside lane. After the collision, the black car continued without stopping. No one was injured in the crash. Whitehall Police are asking for any information the public might have about the suspect vehicle.

An officer on patrol noted a car driving erratically, and as a result of

the investigation arrested the driver for OWI. At about 11:55 p.m. the officer was following the car south on Mears Avenue when it twice drove on the centerline and did not stop at Main Street until the car was fully in the intersection. The officer’s report indicated the Fruitland Township man’s speech was slurred and there was an odor of intoxicants. After the officer administered sobriety tests, the 52-year-old was arrested and taken to the Muskegon County jail. There a blood sample was collected for submission to the MSP Crime Lab and the driver was lodged.

April 12

A Fruitport Township man was arrested for OWI-High BAC after being stopped for erratic driving. The officer was returning to town at about 10:32 p.m. when he noticed the suspect vehicle start to turn into the drive of the Wesco in the 3200 block of Colby St. With the driveway blocked, the vehicle swerved back onto westbound Colby and nearly collided with anther vehicle. The officer continued to observe the car as it drove well under the speed limit, stopped several feet before reaching the intersection of Peterson Road and after making the turn, drove south in the northbound lane. The officer approached the car and driver in a nearby parking lot. The officer at this time noted the 53-year-old had poor balance and there was a strong odor of intoxicants. The suspect attempted to complete sobriety tests, but those tests resulted in his arrest. The driver was taken to the Muskegon County jail, where a breath test was administered and showed his BAC to be over the .17 threshold for High BAC. The suspect was lodged at the jail.

April 15

A deer was at fault for a crash in the 1000 block of Colby St. A 28-yearold Mears woman was traveling east on Colby at 8:04 a.m. when a deer ran

into the side of her vehicle, shattering the driver’s window. The driver had a minor cut from the glass and the passengers were uninjured. The extent of the deer’s injuries is unknown.

A resident of the 1300 block of Warner St. reported a work truck belonging to him had been taken without permission and damaged while it was being driven. Police were called at 6:54 p.m. and told that after the work day was over, two workers returned the truck to the Warner Street address. One of the workers, who did not have a vehicle or ride, then drove off in the truck before returning it a short time later. By then there was damage to the driver’s front fender. The victim reported there was also video of the incident, which remains under investigation.

At 7:12 p.m. Whitehall Police were called to investigate a suspicious situation. A caregiver for a disabled person found packages at the door when arriving at the residence. The caregiver reported neither she nor the resident ordered anything, and the name on the package was not the resident's. The officer checked the computer and could not find a person with that name. The company sending the item was contacted and the packages taken for safekeeping.

A domestic assault was reported at 8:47 p.m. in the 200 block of Hall St. The victim reported she was separated from her husband and had started divorce proceedings. The husband came to her current residence for some paperwork but suspected there was another person in the house and attempted to enter. According to the victim, the husband pushed her against a wall and damaged a screen door while attempting to enter. After confronting the other person, the husband left. The case will be sent to the Muskegon County Prosecutor for review.

Laugh it up at Nuveen Theater Improv Festival

The improv scene in the White Lake area has been steadily growing the past few years and the Arts Council of White Lake-Nuveen is excited to be offering the inaugural Nuveen Theater Improv Festival Friday, May 2 and Saturday, May 3 at the Playhouse at White Lake.

Sponsored by Harwood Flats, there will be two performances and three workshops taught by world-class improvisers.

The workshop Friday, May 2 will be “Scenes and Long Form,” an intermediate improv workshop with Dee Ryan, Kevin Reome and Liz Allen. This will take place from 3-5 p.m.

Friday’s performance will be “Chi-

cago Crosses the Lake,” featuring Liz Allen, Kevin Reome, Dee Ryan and local performers at 7 p.m.

Saturday will offer two workshops.

The first will be “I Can’t, You Can.” This is a beginner improv workshop with Dee Ryan and Kevin Reome, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. The second workshop, “Unexpected Perspectives,” is an intermediate improv workshop with Liz Allen from 2-4 p.m. The performance on Saturday will be “Nevada’s Paradise: 13 Years in Vegas.” This is a one-woman show by Liz Allen, with special guests Pants! Improv Group.

Each performance and workshop is $20 and additional tickets can be

Participants enjoy performing improvisational comedy at a May 2024 improv workshop. The ACWL-Nuveen Center will host its first Improv Festival May 2-3.

• Courtesy Photo

purchased for a second show or workshop for only $10. Visit https://www. artswhitelake.org/2025-improv-fest to

learn more about the performances, classes, instructors, and to purchase tickets.