The Oceana Echo - Volume 2, Issue 51, May 16, 2025
YOUR LOCALLY OWNED AND OPERATED NONPROFIT NEWS SOURCE
EVERYDAY HEROES HEROES HEROES
By AnnaMae Bush
The Oceana Echo Community Correspondent
This is the second of three articles focusing on members of our community who, although they are not celebrated as traditional superheroes, nevertheless, every day that goes by, they are heroes in someone’s life. They deserve our attention, our applause and a token of our support. Last week we focused on correctional officers. For May 11-17, we focus on police officers.
If you are cruising at 85+ mph on US-31 and see a police car in the median with a radar gun aimed at you, it will probably evoke a different response than seeing a police car responding to an altercation at the house next door. But the truth is, someone’s safety is at risk in both instances. In Oceana County we are fortunate to be served by three different levels of police officers: local deputies, the county sheriff’s deputies, and the state of Michigan troopers stationed at the Hart post. One might question what their different responsibilities are, how they cooperate with each other, or can they get in each other’s way? Do all cities, towns and villages in the county have their own police department?
Pentwater Police Chief Laude Hartrum shared
Part 2
some helpful information.
“Hart, Pentwater, Shelby, New Era, Rothbury and Walkerville all have a local police department with full-time and/or part-time officers. Hesperia contracts with the Sheriff’s office for coverage.” But he clarified that having full-time officers did not mean 24-hour coverage. “If our local officer’s shift ends at 2 a.m. and the next morning shift begins at 8 a.m., we have six hours a day that need to be covered by the Sheriff’s department.”
Sheriff Craig Mast confirmed that “the Sheriff’s Department is the only law enforcement agency in the county that has deputies on duty 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Our department has 25 road patrol officers who work 12-hour shifts, four days (or nights) on and then four days (or nights) off. Both local police and state police rely on our department for coverage when their own deputies are off duty.”
“Local departments focus on the enforcement of local ordinances (such as blight, noise, disorderly public behavior, short term rental, etc.) and state law in their town,” Hartrum said. “The sheriff’s department and state police cover the out-county and non-incorporated areas that have no local officers.” Medical help from the first responders is sent through Central Dispatch. Incidents that occur in the out-county are handled by the sheriff’s office and state police. Hartrum explained, “When a shooting is involved or a violent family dispute is reported, the situation is a ‘closest car’ response. Dispatch sends out the call to everyone, and any officers in the area respond to the call.”
Although the state police station is located in Hart, their post area consists of four counties: Lake, Mason, Newaygo
and Oceana. State officers are assigned to individual counties. Sgt. Dan Thomas at the state police post said, “We have 43 officers at this post, 38 of whom are on road patrol. The majority of our cases are crimes against persons or property crimes. That includes domestic disputes, sexual assaults, drug crimes, larcenies and some fraud.”
“There are no hard boundaries on what the local, county, and state officers can or cannot handle,” Hartrum affirms. “Cases will be dispatched to the department that has jurisdiction, but the availability of resources will normally determine how cases are processed. We recognize that proficiency develops through repetitive doing, and we know the county deputies and state troopers handle some kinds of things far more frequently than local officers do. We have violence here, just less of it. It makes sense to work together on some cases.”
To foster cooperative working relationships and to learn from each other, all the local police chiefs from Hart, Pentwater, Shelby, New Era, Rothbury and Walkerville meet monthly and rotate meeting locations among their towns. What’s on their agenda?
“We organize some special events we put on together, we discuss contracts, we talk about program costs and how to pay for things, municipal concerns, code enforcement, and school officers.” Sheriff Mast reports that his office hosts quarterly meetings with all the police chiefs in the county to discuss events and issues of common concern. “It’s important to maintain good relationships. We work together with local and state deputies all the time.”
A few years ago, they worked together to seek a grant for Crisis Intervention
Training, a 40-hour program to help officers identify mental health problems and learn about some drugs that could be helpful. “We have now had 40 officers complete this training,” Hartrum reported. “We also have mental health consultants, three master-level mental health clinicians, who work in the jails with corrections officers in Oceana, Mason, and Lake counties to assist in dealing with mental health issues. Their sole job is to divert inmates with mental health issues out of jail and into mental health facilities.”
Hartrum is convinced that having cooperative working relationships with other agencies and knowing how to speak with people in a non-threatening way are the most important things for successful police work. Relationships are developed through communication. Casual conversation with residents helps generate good connections between officers and the community. Mast said, “We encourage our deputies to attend school events with their families and to wear their uniforms at events. It’s healthy to be seen as a normal part of the community.”
It was interesting to explore the source of motivation for entering law enforcement work because many similarities were apparent. Hart Chief of Police Juan Salazar, said he worked summers at Silver Lake State Park while he was in high school. “I met many officers there who I respected and admired. They really loved their work and it inspired me to consider it as well.” Salazar was born in Shelby, and grew up in Hart, graduating from Hart High School be-
fore taking classes at West Shore College and the police academy. He spent two years as a corrections officer before getting hired as a Hart police office in 2007.
Nine years later he was appointed as police chief. How has that lifelong connection impacted his work? With a smile, he says, “Both good and bad. It’s wonderful to know so many people in the community and to have their trust. At the same time, some long-time acquaintances assume I will let them get away with things for which they should be charged.” The most rewarding thing for him is helping family and friends.
Similarly, what motivated Thomas was the desire to help people in need and “offer a guiding light when someone needs it to find their way.” Mast shared, “When I was a kid, I saw good role models in law enforcement who motivated me to pursue police work.”
Reflecting on the biggest challenges also revealed uniformity of thought. The challenges all revolve around drugs, mental health, and social media. Mast bemoans the change in recreational drug use. “We used to focus on marijuana use. Now charges are involved only if the drug is stolen goods or if someone is driving impaired under its influence. Instead, we are focused on much more deadly recreational drugs: methamphetamine and fentanyl. Every day, every shift, my officers are dealing with the scourge of meth. All officers carry the means to reverse a fentanyl overdose. But often it is not administered in time to prevent death. Recreational has become lethal.”
Mental health issues have already been mentioned above. They were also underscored last week by Lt. Mark Schneider, who heads the Department of Corrections. Both Mast and Hartrum regret that law enforcement does not have the skills to diagnose or solve mental health issues, and the community does not have enough facilities to safely house people with mental health issues. “Sometimes we need to send mentally ill inmates to Indiana because we don’t have safe spaces here in Michigan.”
Social media has undermined police work in more ways than one. Thomas said, “Sometimes a suspect gets tipped off by social media and is gone before we can reach him.”
“People who listen to police scanners sometimes notify families of accident or crime victims or even blast the news instantaneously on social media before we have the opportunity to notify them,” Hartrum noted. “It works to undermine the community’s trust in the police. First impression judgements can be in error and are nearly impossible to change.”
Despite the many challenges of police work, the residents of Oceana County are very fortunate to have law enforcement officers at every level who have long tenures. Hartrum has been in police work for 40 years. Salazar has been in police work for 20 years. This fall, Thomas will have been in police work for 25 years. Mast has been in police work for 32 years. Three cheers for each of them and for every officer who works in our county! Thank you for your service.
Semi-finalists for Asparagus Queen announced
On Thursday, May 8, the 2025 Asparagus Queen candidates met at the Hart Area Public Library to charm a panel of three judges and show what would make them the best choice to become this year’s Asparagus Queen.
After careful deliberation and a tough decision, the judges panel narrowed the candidates to a group of five semi-finalists.
These semi-finalists are (in alphabetical order):
• Claire Gowell, who is sponsored by Fleming Farms
• Olivia Porter, who is sponsored by Excel Propane
• Shelby Purdy, who is sponsored by Reeman Farm Supply of Fremont
• Kaitlyn Sutton, who is sponsored by Farmhouse, Kitchen and Market
• Haley Walsworth, who is sponsored by Golden Stock Farms
The chosen semi-finalists will continue their run for the 2025 National Asparagus Queen throughout the next month, concluding on Saturday, June 7 when they will once again meet with the judges, and the Queen and 1st Runner-up will be chosen.
The crowning of the 2025 National Asparagus Queen will take place on Friday, June 13, via a ceremony during the now free concert event at the Oceana County Fairgrounds featuring the band Your Generation.
By Sharon Hallack
The Oceana Echo Community Correspondent
Nature
Everywhere we look, nature is exploding back to life, from blossoms and birds to leafing trees and turtles on parade. Yes, turtles! Watch out for the snapper crossing Polk Road just east of the electrical transfer station outside of Hart! Over 20 turtles were spotted sunning themselves in their regular location, a downed tree branch over Hart Lake, last week. And Ron Skvarla, of Montague, reported being able to watch five baby snappers hatch on his property a couple of weeks ago, saying, “A sure sign of warmer weather ahead.”
The Hart Rotary conducted their annual Hart Lake clean up day Saturday, April 26, gathering trash from various access areas surrounding Hart Lake. This year, the Oceana Eagles joined in the effort as well and cleared brush from the city’s Pointe Park, located at the end of Hilltop Drive on the northeast side of the lake. With the addition of some trash receptacles and a few parking spots, the city hopes to be able to provide another lake access point to local residents.
Recreation
News and Notes
tion is available on their website, www. pentwaterhartrail.com Those wishing to make a donation to Friends of the Pentwater Hart Trail 501(c)(3) can mail it to P.O. Box 228, Pentwater, MI 49449 or to the Oceana County Community Foundation, P.O. Box 902, Pentwater, with “Pentwater Hart Trail” in the memo. Volunteers are always welcome, please email chair@pentwaterharttrail.com to get involved!
The 7th annual Hart Hills Gravel Road Race, held last Saturday, May 10, saw over 350 riders descend on downtown Hart and surrounding countrysides for this year’s event. Participants could choose between four amazing routes: the mini course (13 miles), the short course (25 miles), the mid course (35 miles) or the long course (55 miles). The course with the highest number of riders, with 153 riders, was the 25-mile short course. Averaging between 10 and 20 miles per hour, riders of every age and ability, on all makes and models of bikes, tested their personal limits while enjoying the dusty backroads of “sweet home Oceana.”
Schools of Choice applications can be submitted from now until August 11, 2025 at any county school district.
Even though formal academic training will be finished for another school year, plenty of other opportunities await families looking for activities to keep children busy this summer. From overnight camp experiences at any of the county’s summer camps (Camp Tall Turf, Camp Ao-Wa-Kiya, Camp Miniwanca, Grace Adventures) to sports camps, recreation club teams, summer day camps, swim lessons, etc. Contact your local school or church office, the West Shore ESD, MSU-Extension, Oceana Conservation District or United Way for information on kid-friendly summer activities!
Municipal
County Sheriff Deputy John Hanks received his 20-year service award from the Oceana County Commissioner’s Board Chair Robert Walker at their May 8 meeting.
ing two new services to their customers this season. Owner Jake Whelpley was recently certified as an Electric Bike Technician by the Canadian Electric Bike Association and is now able to diagnose electric bike or “e-bike” problems. The Wood Shed has also been named as an official dealer for Swytch E-bike Conversion kits. With these kits, Whelpley said he can convert any regular bicycle to an e-bike. “This is an affordable way to enjoy the benefits of an e-bike” Whelpley said.
The Wood Shed Bike Shop no longer rents bicycles, but can perform repairs and maintenance on many different kinds of bikes. They also offer new and pre-owned bicycles for purchase. The Wood Shed is located right on the Hart-Montague Rail Trail, less than a quarter-mile south of downtown Mears. For more information, visit www.woodshedbikeshop.com or call 231-873-4338.
Oceana bikers and friends celebrated National Trails Day, Saturday, April 26, with an event at the Hart Commons, where various community groups shared information, and how biking trails add value to our lives in Oceana was the topic of conversation. The Pentwater Hart Trail was one of the groups on hand to promote the connector trail they have been working on for the past 10 years. The paved shoulders that extend from the Village of Pentwater are now complete! The City of Hart has received a conditional commitment from the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) for the funding of their 2023 Safe Routes to School grant application. The current goal is to raise approximately $5.2 million for Phase 3, the final phase of the long-awaited project. Interested community members and visitors are encouraged to like PHT on Facebook to follow their events and news. Their 2025 “Tacos & Trek for the Trail 5K” coming up Saturday, June 28. Registra-
Hart Police officers Elizabeth Schoedel and Jack Hoekstra were invited guests of the Oceana County Medical Care Facility’s “Romeo” group Friday, April 18. Both officers enjoyed sharing more about their department’s day-to-day operations and getting to know the members of the Romeo group. On another Hart Police Department note, Officer Hoekstra successfully completed his Field Training Observation April 27 and was granted solo patrol. Chief Juan Salazar congratulates Hoekstra on completing the necessary requirements and welcomes him to the team.
End of School Details
Now is the time to get your student athlete’s sports physicals for the 202526 school year so they can start practice without delay in August! Contact your child’s school office for further information!
Draper wins 2025 Congressional Art Competition
Congressman John Moolenaar announced the winner of the 2025 Congressional Art Competition last month at a reception held at the Green Charter Township Hall. Nevada Draper, a 12th grade homeschooled student from Hesperia, won the competition’s grand prize with her painting, “One Generation Away.” Her artwork will be placed on display at the United States Capitol for the next year, where it will be viewed by visitors from around the world.
“I congratulate Nevada on this wonderful accomplishment. Her artwork will represent our district well as it is displayed in the U.S. Capitol this year. Thank you to every student from our district who participated in this year’s Congressional Art Competition. I am grateful to see so many talented students showcase their skills and present exceptional artwork,” said Congressman Moolenaar.
Shelby Police Chief Dean Roesler reported at the Shelby Village Council’s May 12 meeting that village police officers had patrolled a total of 2,583 miles in April, given 37 verbal warnings for various traffic violations, issued 21 citations and made four physical arrests. Roesler also reported that the recently acquired radar “speed” trailer has been deployed at various locations and has seen an overall favorable response from the community. Several citizens have requested the trailer be placed along Michigan Avenue, Sixth Street, Ferry Street, Pine Street and stretches of State Street as well.
Community Pictured at left are Jeff and Kristine Schaner of Ferry Township in front of their sugar bush operation featured in the March 28 edition of the Oceana Echo.
Business
The Wood Shed Bike Shop in Mears is pleased to announce they are offer-
Oceana’s newest winery, Annabelle Acres, 3893 E. Harrison Rd., Hart, (just two miles west of Walkerville) celebrated their grand opening last weekend with over 200 guests. Owners Dennis and Debbie Hintz decided to turn their wine-making hobby into a business and now feature over 15 wines made from “the fruit of our vineyard and neighboring farms.” Winery hours are Wednesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Closed Sunday through Tuesday. Visit annabelleacreswinery.com or Facebook for more information.
As always, please email sharon@ oceanaecho.com if you have an item or idea for our News & Notes column. We desire to highlight news and notables from every corner of the county!
Oceana
Nevada Draper and Congressman John Moolenaar
This page is brought to you by:
114 Dryden St. in Hart, Mich. 49420 (231) 873-2600
Visit us! The Oceana County Historical & Genealogical Society is open Wednesdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Private tours are available by appointment. oceanahistory.org
Our oldest vacation community: Juniper Beach
By Claire Marshall
The Oceana Echo Community Columnist
One thing about me that readers of this history column will come to learn is that I can get fixated on a topic. So if you will all indulge me, I would like to explore one more vacation community in Oceana County. The oldest of such, in fact. This is none other than Juniper Beach, a community of cottages tucked into the bluffs north of the Silver Lake Sand Dunes and south of Pentwater.
You arrive at your destination after passing through the rolling fields and orchards of Golden Township, coming to a halt at a wooded T-intersection, residential avenues closed to all except association members and guests. I, of course, don’t proceed further as a courteous neighbor (completely unrelated, but I am an excellent dinner guest who would love nothing more than to ask half a million questions about historic cottage renovation). It’s no wonder why Juniper Beach has been private since the 70s. It’s a tight-knit community full of families who’ve enjoyed their landing place over the lake, many for over a century.
In comparison to the Little Point Sable Association, Juniper Beach’s ties to Oceana County are far closer. The land was first purchased in 1901 by Hartians Dr. Louis P. Munger and his wife, Edith. He was a doctor at the turn of the century who practiced out of the Chadwick-Munger House in Hart, now owned by the Oceana County Historical and Genealogical Society. Though
many might know Dr. Munger for his many non-medicine-related business ventures in the area. The greatest, by far, was real estate and cherry production. At one point, Munger was known as the world’s largest single producer of cherries and is credited with being one of the first to bring the crop to Oceana County. In fact, Juniper Beach borders Munger’s expansive cherry orchard in Golden Township.
It was Edith Munger, however, who enjoyed Juniper Beach the most. Edith was a renowned naturalist - a member of the Wildflower Preservation Society, State Conservation Board and president of Michigan’s chapter of the Audubon Society. You can thank her, in part, for the statewide vote that named the American robin as the state bird. Edith spent many summers at one of the Munger’s cottages on Juniper Beach, called Vagabondia, with her grandchildren. The land was of special interest to Edith as well, with the abundance of juniper bushes, pines, and a striking birch tree with seven distinct trunks. She said that there, juniper trees and bushes grew in higher abundance than most places in Michigan and named the beach appropriately.
Like the Mungers, the early residents of Juniper Beach lived closer to Oceana County. Certainly the cottage owners of the early 1900s were not traveling hundreds of miles by train, ship, and wagon from Chicago. The largest two waves of cottages were built first in the 1900s-1910s, when the land was first developed (“developed” in the most conservative of terms), and then in the
1930s, with the cottages staying in the families for many generations. It took Juniper Beach until 1959 to become its own Association of homeowners, primarily in the interest of maintaining the roads the caretaker originally hired by Dr. Munger passed. Juniper Beach homeowner fees went on to fund the maintenance of communal areas.
Like at Little Point Sable, rising lake levels of the 1950s threatened cottages. Many of the bluffs were undermined, causing massive erosion and buildings plummeting into the lake below. Several historic cottages, including the main Munger cottage, were destroyed. What’s more, between the erosion and the efforts to move surviving cottages back from the shoreline, many of Edith’s beloved juniper trees were removed or lost to the lake. There was a brief reprieve for homeowners to rebuild and construct breakwalls through the 60s, but by the late 70s and early 80s the shoreline was once again threatened. By the end of the decade, breakwalls had improved greatly. The trick, shared by many homeowners, was to use large boulders to better weaken the force of oncoming waves.
Juniper Beach made national news in November 1940, when the SS Novadoc beached on one of the sandbars of the coast following the Armistice Day storm that sank two other ships. The ship was first spotted off the shore of Juniper Beach by Willard Gebhart when he ventured out to inspect the damage to the cottages the morning following the blizzard. At the time, no one knew whether there were any survivors and
could not venture further into the still dangerous waters to check. It was only after dark when viewers could see fires lit on the half-submerged ship, and 36 hours after running aground, a local fishing boat braved the lake to rescue the 16 surviving members of the 19 crew.
Much has been done over the past 120 years to maintain the peace and natural beauty of Juniper Beach, as was the lifelong mission of Dr. and Edith Munger, who resisted expansive real estate development in favor of conservation. Despite best efforts, Juniper Beach has seen many changes. Shifting dunes have swallowed up a pond that once spanned the northern half of the area and which was enjoyed by many residents. The multi-trunk birch tree was blown over in a storm. This is not to mention the dunes, cottages, and juniper that were lost to rising lake levels over the years. Despite it all, Juniper Beach remains a beloved home-away-from-home and nature-filled respite for Oceana County and out-of-state residents alike, as it has been for well over a century.
The Michigan Dunes Chapter, NSDAR will meet this Saturday, May 17 at 10 a.m. at the Department of Veterans Affairs building, 844 S. Griswold St. in Hart. There will be a presentation by Laurel Sawyer entitled “250th Birthday of the Army.” The meeting’s Zoom link is: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/83059398688? pwd=2ba4FVDc71vtW4k8Tkx9VpfSqGtbpj.1
2nd Annual Silver Lake Kids Carp Cull Contest
Friends of Silver Lake proudly announce the second Annual Silver Lake Kids Carp Cull Contest to encourage the removal of nuisance carp from Silver Lake. The organization is paying a reward of $2 per carp submitted across the month of June 2025. The contest rules are simple: it is open only to kids 16 and under (fishing license not required), only nuisance carp qualify for reward payment and the carp must be taken from Silver Lake in Mears. So participating kids can cull carp at anytime and bring their catch to one of the collection events on Sundays in June (June 1st, 8th, 15th, 22nd & 29th).
Friends of Silver Lake will pay a reward of $2 per carp physically submitted at the collection site, the Golden Township Park at Silver Lake Sand Dunes (8711 W. Silver Lake Rd., Mears, MI 49436), only on five consecutive Sundays; June 1st, June 8th, June 15th, June 22nd, & June 29th, 12:30-1 p.m. Friends of Silver Lake will collect and dispose of the carp submitted at the collection events. Participants may submit carp catches on multiple Sundays.
Additional rewards during the event include $50 for the Most Carp (two or more) submitted by a single participant each Sunday and a free T-shirt for the first 25 kids that submit a nuisance carp across the five collection events.
Removing nuisance carp from Silver Lake helps promote the efforts to improve lake water quality, help establish native aquatic plants and improve our overall fishery.
PLA board meeting planned for May 19
The Pentwater Lake Association board of directors will meet Monday ,May 19 at 6:30 p.m. at the Centenary United Methodist Church at 82 N. Hancock St., Pentwater. The public is invited to attend - enter on the Hancock Street Hall entrance. Membership in the PLA is open to all individuals interested in the lake, its natural resources and water quality. Members do not have to own lake property in order to join the non-profit organization. More details and past meeting minutes are available at www.pentwaterlakeassociation.com.
Legion hosts yard sale to benefit local veterans
With the warmer weather, yard sale season has officially begun, and this weekend is the perfect opportunity to search for and get some great buys, while helping our local veteran community. The Gordon Bates Post #30 American Legion in Shelby will be holding a benefit yard sale today, Friday, May 16 and tomorrow, May 17 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at 122 Ferry St. in Shelby. All funds raised will go toward post operational costs and supporting local veterans and their families.
“All items have been donated by the many great folks who live between Whitehall and Ludington,” sale organizer Darrell Hansen said. Items of note include, lots of military equipment, a kitchen table, miscellaneous chairs, camping items, ice fishing poles, deer antler lamp, a used refrigerator, toys, Christmas items and new kitchen gadgets still in their boxes. Anyone with donations or questions, should reach out to Hansen at 231-670-3170.
May
May 16 - Pentwater Community Pride Day, various locations.
May 16 - Hesperia High School Awards Ceremony, Gym, 9 a.m.
May 24 - Main Street Market Chalets open, downtown Hart.
May 25 - Women Veterans Retreat Benefit All You Can Eat Pancake Breakfast, Pentwater VFW, 8 a.m. to noon.
Thrift & Gift Crawl includes 8 area businesses
The Hart Economic & Redevelopment Team presents this year’s Thrift & Gift Crawl today, Friday, May 16 and tomorrow, May 17. How it works: Grab a punch card at any participating thrift & gift shop, get your card punched at each stop, enjoy a fun day of shopping, leave your card at your last stop for a chance to win one of eight prizes through a random draw the following week. Participating businesses include: Cup of Kindness, Main Street Market Chalets, Pole Barn & a Passion, Ivy Cottage, On the Farm, Birch & Blossom, Morningside Pallet Store and Up North Garden Center.
Upcoming area blood drives offer chance to give
Want to help save up to three people in less than an hour? Donate blood! Six area blood drives will take place across Oceana County in the next three weeks. Organizers invite all regular donors, as well as new donors, especially eligible younger donors, to consider giving blood this summer. All those individuals who are fighting a chronic condition, having a major surgery or are involved in a serious accident rely on the community’s blood donations to survive. Preregister today and help fill all available appointments!
• On Tuesday, May 20 New Era Christian Reformed Church, located at 1820 Ray Ave., New Era, will host a blood drive from 1-6 p.m. in the church narthex. Please call the church at (231)861-5554 to be connected with someone for scheduling an appointment, sign up online using this link: https://donateblood.versiti.org/ donor/schedules/drive_schedule/11603089.
• Celebrate Memorial Day by giving back, Monday, May 26 from 8 a.m. to 12:20 p.m. at the West Michigan Research Station located at 5185 North Oceana Drive. Contact coordinator Kathy Roskam at 231-861-6353 or visit donateblood.versiti. org to schedule an appointment.
• On Tuesday, May 27, the Hart VFW will host one of their regular American Red Cross Blood Drives Tuesday, May 27 from 11:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. at 802 South State Street in Hart. Blood donation appointments are required, but can be easily made by visiting www.redcrossblood.org/give. Walk-ins are welcome, if there are cancellations or no-shows. Please contact Steve Fell at 231-873-1727.
• On Tuesday, June 3, GHSP will be hosting a blood drive from 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at their plant located at 1550 Industrial Park Dr. in Hart. Please contact Kim McClelland at GHSP to schedule an appointment.
• On Wednesday, June 4, Hesperia Community Library, located at 80 South Division Street, Hesperia will be the site of another Versiti blood drive from 2:30-7 p.m. Please contact Colleen Aslakson to make an appointment.
• Thursday, June 5 Versiti will once again be accepting blood donations from 2-6:30 p.m. at the West Michigan Research Station, 5185 N. Oceana Dr., Hart. Please contact coordinator Kathy Roskam at 231-861-6353 or visit donateblood. versiti.org to schedule an appointment.
Donating blood usually takes about an hour. Individuals will receive a short health assessment and be asked to answer a few health questions before donating. For the best donation experience, individuals are reminded to eat a regular meal and hydrate well before giving blood. Keep in mind, when deciding which blood drive to attend, that blood donations must be 60 days apart.
MULTI-FAMILY YARD SALE
Thursday, Friday &
Pentwater Junior Abigail Field is Showcase Winner
By Sharon Hallack The Oceana Echo Community Correspondent
March 19 was a “night to remember” for Pentwater High School Junior Abigail Field when she was chosen as the winner of the "Performing Arts” category at the annual West Michigan Student Showcase, held each spring in Muskegon’s historic Frauenthal Theatre. Competing against 25 other West Michigan high school students in the same category, Field, as the only dancer, wowed the judges with her original lyrical solo dance performance of “Undone,” choreographed by dance instructor Lauren Swanson, of Relevé Dance Studio of Whitehall, where Field has been a student since the sixth grade.
When asked how she prepared for her Showcase performance, Field shared, “It’s a lot of hard work and a lot of time. I set up private (rehearsals) every Friday to work on choreography and to perfect it, basically from October to February.”
Not only did Abigail receive the “traveling trophy” to display at her school for the next year, but was awarded a $1,000 scholarship, which she plans to use toward a two-week dance intensive she was invited to be a part of at the Eisenhower Dance Academy in Detroit this July.
Dancing has been a part of Field’s life since she was 6 or 7 and she has no intention of giving it up once she graduates. Following high school, she plans to attend college to pursue a degree in Fine Arts. She is currently exploring several Michigan schools that offer that major, but time will tell, “There are quite a few to choose from,” she concluded.
Dancers compete in an annual season of competitions, from January to June, similar to any other athletic sport. Following a spring recital performance, students may be invited to participate in Regionals, and after that, they can sign up to perform at Nationals. “We’re not going to Nationals this year,” Field said. “Instead we’re going to Disney in February 2026, where we’ll perform a 30-60 minute show, with 20 senior students performing for 30 minutes on stage in Disney Springs.”
This annual “showcase” of artistic talent has been shining the spotlight on West Michigan high school students, from 30 different school districts, for over 40 years. Students are chosen by their respective high schools to represent them at the annual competition in one of four different arts categories including, performance, visual arts, literary arts and digital media arts.
Abigail is the daughter of James and Monica Field, the granddaughter of John and Maureen Huizing and of Carol Abe, all of Hart.
Other high school students from Oceana County who have been fortunate to receive this illustrious award include Sarah Slocum of Hart High School in 1988 for her vocal performance; Leanne Arman of Lakeshore Public Academy in 2004 for her humorous monologue; and Emily Schwarz of Pentwater High School in 2023 for her solo dance performance.
Get ready for summer activities at Pentwater Centenary UMC
Moving from traditionally sedentary winter and spring months to busier summer ones can be tricky. Muscles and ligaments aren’t always ready for lawn work, walking, kayaking, bike riding and other activities after being less active during colder months. Pentwater’s Centenary United Methodist Church (CUMC) wants to help people get ready for summer and is inviting all area residents to attend its Senior Stretch classes. Taught by certified yoga instructor Linda Hundt-Trierweiler, the six-year-running class is held in the Wesley Room of the church’s Hancock Street location from 10-11 a.m. each Monday and Thursday, Sept. 1 through May 31.
“I will help you get yourself ready for the busy summer season with chair yoga that gently stretches and strengthens muscles and joints.” Trierweiler said. “Regular attendance prior to the start of summer will enable participants to get the most out of the summer months while avoiding injuries and building better balance, agility, and strength.” Working around the house and yard, and summer fun with family and friends can be taxing for many adults and seniors.
One does not have to be a member of the church to attend. “The more people we have, the more fun we have,” Trierweiler said. “I strive for light-hearted, informative sessions. We go slow and safely with no impact; we learn to be aware and respect our personal levels of fitness. There is no judgment and no pressure.”
Participants have reported improved balance, agility, mobility and less joint pain after attending the classes. No reservations are needed. Enter the church at the office entrance and follow the signs to the Wesley Room.
For more information, contact CUMC offices at 231-869-5900, pentwaterumc@gmail.com
Abigail Field
In Loving Memory of our Family, Friends and Neighbors
obituaries
Sue Ellen Herin
October 4, 1967 ~ April 29, 2025
Sue Ellen Herin, a cherished resident of Hesperia, Mich igan, passed away on Tuesday, April 29, 2025, at the age of 57. Born on October 4, 1967, in Fremont, Michigan, Sue’s life was a testament to love and dedication to her family, friends and community.
Sue was a devoted daughter and loving sister, deeply committed to the happiness and well-being of her loved ones. She had a joyful spirit that was evident in her love for putt-putt golf, bowling, and memorable trips to Disney World. Her work at Progressions was a source of joy and fulfillment, where she found great pleasure in contributing to her community. Sue’s life was a beautiful example of unconditional love and joy. Her memory will remain a beacon of light and love for all who knew her. She will be deeply missed.
Sue is survived by her mother, Nancy Herin; and her sisters, Julie Bowerman and Joan Omans. She was a proud and caring aunt to her nieces and nephews, Joshua Bowerman, Rachel Bailo, Michael Omans and Nicole Omans. She also leaves behind her beloved aunt and uncle, Sharon and Marlin Eitniear. Sue was preceded in death by her father, Lawrence Herin; her paternal grandparents, Elmer and Hattie Herin; and her maternal grandparents, Frank Koolovitz and Myrtle Koolovitz.
Family, friends and all those whose lives Sue touched had the opportunity to remember and celebrate her life at a visitation on Saturday, May 3, 2025, from 11 a.m. to noon, at the Hesperia United Methodist Church in Hesperia, Michigan. The funeral service followed at noon. In lieu of flowers, donations in Sue’s memory can be made to Heartland Hospice 1053 W. Main St., Fremont, MI 49412, or West Michigan Community Mental Health: 920 Diana St., Ludington, MI 49431. For checks, please put Sue Herin in the memo space. Arrangements are being provided by Crandell Funeral Home, Fremont.
Obituary Information:
We, at The Oceana Echo, offer our deepest condolences for your loss and are here to help you tell others about your loved one’s life and the plans you have made to honor, celebrate and remember them. If you would like to place an obituary with us, please tell your arrangement specialist or email us at theoceanaecho@gmail.com.
Foundation hosts 5th Annual Migrant Child Task Force Donation Drive
The Oceana Community Foundation is excited to announce the start of its fifth Annual Donation Drive in partnership with the Oceana Migrant Child Task Force. The Foundation is collecting donations of new hygiene items, toys, activities books for children and preteens, bulk cultural foods and more to directly support families through the Task Force’s Camp Outreach events. Each item donated will directly go to a family in Oceana County, providing essential items.
Oceana’s farmworker outreach efforts are organized by our local Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) to support migrant families facing resource insecurity. The task force estimates that around 42,700 children (ages 0 to 19) visit Michigan alongside their families as seasonal farmworkers. While working to support Oceana’s agricultural economy by harvesting local produce, some young children and their families lack access to everyday necessities. The foundation is assisting DHHS by collecting in-demand items like toothbrushes, kids’ toys, shampoo, diapers, wipes, and soap. This community-centered effort invites everyone to invest in the well-being of local migrant farmworker families who are vital to West Michigan’s agricultural success.
“Agriculture is an essential part of Oceana County’s economy. With the support of our migrant farmworkers who make West Michigan their temporary home, our farms can thrive,” Foundation CEO Tammy Carey shares. “The Foundation is thrilled to collaborate with our local Migrant Child Task Force for the fifth time. Our community continues to welcome and support our migrant farmworkers with each wish list, sharing their gratitude for all their hard work to bring food to our tables and beyond.”
Oceana’s Migrant Child Task Force Donation Drive is taking place both online and in-person. Via Facebook and the foundation’s website, participants can donate items through the Task Force’s Amazon Wishlist (at tinyurl.com/ 2025CampOutreach). By purchasing one of the items on the wish list, donations are shipped directly to the foundation’s PO Box. Contributions can also be dropped off in the donation box at the foundation’s office in the Pentwater Shelby State Bank side entrance lobby at 388 S. Hancock Street. Items are delivered to families throughout the county by DHHS during their camp visits or out of their Hart office directly to clients. Any donation would be appreciated and accepted until June 30th, 2025.
For any questions regarding the Oceana’s Migrant Child Task Force, contact Ricardo Solis of the Farmworker Outreach Services Division. He is available at solicR1@michigan.gov.
PAC packs a bunch
By AnnaMae Bush
The Oceana Echo Community Correspondent
Home to an unusually high number of artists and skilled artisans, the Village of Pentwater is also home to the Pentwater Artisan Learning Center. Therefore, for a modest annual fee, one can develop any artistic skill that interests them. Is it any wonder, then, that village residents spawned the Pentwater Arts Council (PAC), whose purpose is to support the arts (including visual, theater, music, and performing arts) and enhance arts education in Oceana County? The depth and breadth of PAC programs and projects are both surprising and inspiring.
Patric Sullivan, formerly a Pentwater gallery owner who now lives in Grand Rapids, was the catalyst for the organization of the PAC in 2009. The original board had four members: Sullivan, James Ege, Neil Lemme and Maxine McLeod. Officially granted 501(c)(3) status in 2012, the PAC Board has since grown to 15 members strong. Their active season has expanded from three to 11 months of the year. The reach of their programs has spread from Pentwater to all of Oceana County.
“Perhaps our best-known program is the annual Oceana County Student Art Exhibit,” PAC co-chair Judy Pazol said. “We welcome students from all public and private schools and home-schooled students to participate. The school art teachers select which pieces to forward to us for the exhibit. They are displayed in two categories, 2-dimensional and 3-dimensional, and are divided into elementary, middle school, and high school age groups.” There were 96 entries this year, and they were displayed at the Oceana County Council on Aging facility on Tyler Road in Hart. The award ceremony was held there on May 3.
Each year the public is invited to view the exhibit and to vote for their favorite entry in each category and age group. This year 220 votes were tallied to determine the Peoples’ Choice winners. The PAC engages artists to evaluate entries for the Judges’ Choice in each category: first, second, and third places. All participants receive a gift card; all winners receive cash prizes. The judges select a Best in Show Award in each of the three age groups for a $300 cash prize that is split between the artist and their school’s art department.
Exhibit winners this year came from Oceana Christian, Pentwater, Hart, and Shelby schools. A few of the winning submissions caught this writer’s imagination. One was “Break Dancer,” made from pipe cleaners and plastic straws. Another was “Red Truck,” which was made with paper and actually contained a motor. A third entry made with fragile butterflies and needle syringes was called “Butterflies in the Bloodstream.” The artist’s statement (by Belle Powers) read: “Through this artwork, I aim to shed light on the often-overlooked issue of underdiagnosis in women with bleeding disorders such as Von Willebrand Disease and Hemophilia. … I look to symbolize the beauty and resilience of women who navigate these challenges.
The butterflies…represent transformation… Through this artwork, I hope to inspire a dialogue about awareness, self-advocacy, and the urgent need for better recognition and treatment of women with bleeding disorders.” Artwork expressing social concerns is a unique feature in the exhibit each year.
The student art exhibit is only one of several programs supporting Oceana County schools. Some years ago, when the art program was cut by Walkerville Public Schools for budget reasons, the PAC funded Michelle Anscombe to be a part-time art instructor for two years. “The students were just fantastic!” Anscombe claimed. “They were very engaged and excited to do art. I loved teaching there.” Her successful program led to the school hiring its own art instructor. “From that perspective, it was lovely that Michelle worked herself out of the job,” remarked PAC board member Robin Martens.
For 15 years the PAC has hosted Corks and Canvas (recently renamed Cocoa, Corks and Canvas) during Winterfest in Pentwater. Martens said, “It has been a welcome opportunity for community folks to get out in February and see each other when winter has hampered their gatherings. It is also our sole fundraiser in support of our Teacher Grant Program.”
For the past three years, the PAC has funded a Teacher Grant Program, providing individual teachers in any Oceana school with a grant of up to $1,500 for projects the teachers want to do but the school cannot afford. Examples of these projects include a sewing class, a theater project, and the purchase of musical instruments. In 3 years, they have donated more than $9,000 to teachers. Last year they funded a field trip to Chicago for Pentwater music and art students, who went to the Museum of Contemporary Art and attended a rehearsal of the Chicago Symphony.
Reflecting on their trip, students remarked on the experience of taking the El train and the value of learning “to adapt to any situation and switch from a small town to a big city brain; [it] helped me become more confident….” Referencing the Art Museum, another wrote, “These artworks showed me that contemporary art is a lot more complex than what I first thought, expanding my knowledge on what it can be. I was greatly inspired by the originality…I’ve seen how a concept can be the focal point of an artwork….” Janet Nelson, PAC co-chair with Pazol, highlighted their Sculpture Walk program in Pentwater. “The three-year Sculpture Walk has had wide appeal and benefited all of us. Children have participated in school field trips and instructional booklets. The sculptures have promoted discussion and appreciation of public art in the community. And best of all, five beautiful sculptures have found a home in the village!”
A few of the PAC projects raised funds for charities such as Harbor Hospice and cancer research. Pazol smiled when she recalled the fun of holding the “Bra Art” competition and auction to support breast cancer research. Broader community programs included “Gallery Strolls,” “Ramp Up the Arts” and “Blooming Art,” the latter a collaboration with the Garden Club. Other collaborations have produced student-designed and Artisan Center-constructed bicycle racks in Pentwater and resulted in colorful art in downtown store windows that are otherwise bare during the winter months when they are closed. The newest PAC program is their Featured Artist Program, which will be hosted June-August this summer in the Pentwater, Hart, Shelby, and Walkerville Libraries. Watch your local library next month for the featured artist in your community and enjoy the multi-faceted and inspiring results of the work of the PAC.
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• On May 19, 1536, Anne Boleyn, the unfortunate second wife of England’s King Henry VIII, was beheaded at the Tower of London on charges including adultery, incest and conspiracy against the king, after just three years of marriage.
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• On May 20, 1992, in an attempt to end the blight of graffiti vandalism, the Chicago City Council passed an ordinance banning the retail sale of spray paint and large markers within city limits, describing them as “weapons of terror.”
STRANGE BUT TRUE #12345_20250505 FOR RELEASE MAY 5, 2025
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By JoAnn Derson
By Lucie Winborne
• On May 21, 1758, 10-year-old Mary Campbell was abducted from her home in Cumberland County, Pennsylvania, by members of the Lenape tribe and ended up becoming an icon of the French and Indian War. At age 16, she was returned to a European settlement in the captive release orchestrated by Colonel Henry Bouquet at the conclusion of Pontiac’s War.
• On May 22, 1802, Martha Dandridge Custis Washington, widow of President George Washington, died of a “severe fever” at her Mount Vernon home at the age of 70. Though she was a devoted wife, she did not entirely enjoy her role as “Lady Washington” and once confessed that she felt “more like a state prisoner than anything else.”
• On May 23, 1979, rocker Tom Petty declared bankruptcy in an effort to free himself from his contract with Shelter Records.
• On May 24, 1964, a referee’s call in the last minutes of a close soccer match between Peru and Argentina at the National Stadium in Lima, Peru, sparked a riot that resulted in the deaths of more than 300 fans. Another 500 people were injured.
• J.C. in Florida writes: “The one thing I might add [to your tips about preparing deviled eggs] is making sure the eggs are point down during storage so that the yolks are centered if stuffing.” Great point! A little vinegar in the boiling water will help to keep egg in the shell if it cracks.
• “I love to put photos of family on the fridge. But I found that the photos were getting ruined from grease and moisture in the air. To get around that — and to really preserve them — I cleaned and laminated them. Afterward, I hotglued little magnets to the backs, and now I can move them around to accommodate new photos. There are so many, and it gives me pleasure to look at them.” — C.R. in Oklahoma
• This is classic money-saving advice as well as safety advice: Lower your water heater temperature from 140 F to 120 F. You will save money on heating water, and you will reduce your risk of scalding from hot temperatures.
• “Add a cinnamon stick or softener sheet to your vacuum bag when you change it. While you clean, you will distribute the good smell throughout your home.” — F.H. in Colorado
• Got a squeak in your hardwood floors? Dust a sprinkling of baby powder at the source of the squeak, and use a brush to get it in the cracks. The powder can help to lubricate the boards and remove the squeak.
• If you need to clean stained plastic storage containers or takeout containers that you’ll use again, do it with baking soda. Get the item wet, and use a liberal amount of baking soda as a scrub. It’s abrasive but gentle, and super safe for food containers. Send your tips to Now Here’s a Tip, 628 Virginia Drive, Orlando, FL 32803.
• Worldwide, blue is the most common favorite color.
• Medieval knights were given letters of protection that essentially provided them with a license to kill, as they granted the possessor full immunity from legal proceedings resulting from battles or necessary fatalities.
• The “Mona Lisa” has her own mailbox in the Louvre for all the flowers, poems and love letters she receives.
• Deipnophobia is the fear of dining with other people
• People have used dishwashers to clean hats, toothbrushes, sneakers and more. There are even tutorials on how to cook certain foods with a dishwasher.
• New Order’s classic song “Blue Monday” is the best-selling 12-inch single in history. Unfortunately, the band lost money on it since the cost of producing its unique cover was higher than its sale price.
• In 95% of cases, the first word someone writes with a new pen is their own name.
• Human fetuses have gills, fur and even a tail during development. The tail becomes the coccyx and the “gills,” which are temporary slits in the neck, develop into jaw and ear bones, while the fur disappears before birth or within a few weeks afterward.
• Despite more than 150 years worth of study and experimentation, no one really knows why ice is slippery.
• Sixty-eight percent of American adults buy shoes with foot pain in mind.
• The oldest known toilet, in the ancient city of Knossos on the island of Crete, has remained functional for approximately 4,000 years since its construction and was built with a seat and sophisticated drainage system.
• Eyelashes are considered the thickest and toughest of all hairs on the human body, with a lifespan of about three months.
Pentwater Village Art Exhibition draws to an end Announcement of voting results and sculpture donations
May 31, 2025 marks the end of the Pentwater Arts Council’s Sculpture Walk, a three-year commitment to the Village of Pentwater to feature quality outdoor sculpture art.
The diverse selection of sculptures has been featured throughout the village while the community has been exposed to and enjoyed strolling past the artwork. Several of the favorite Sculpture Walk pieces from the first two years were purchased with donations by Pentwater art lovers and the Pentwater Arts Council to remain in the village on permanent display. They include: Water Maiden, Anne’s Arbor, Mellow Yellow and Constructed Tree. In January 2025 it was announced that an anonymous family has donated a current sculpture piece, The Lamplighter, to the Pentwater Historical Society,
and it will remain at the Pentwater Historical Museum located on south Rutledge at 1st Street.
The community’s interest in the village sculptures grew during the initial years, and they were asked for their participation in selecting pieces for the final Sculpture Walk year, 2024-2025. In early 2024, the community voted for the top five of 15 sculpture pieces with an overwhelmingly positive response that determined the new pieces for the final year that included: Gypsy, Lamplighter, Time Passes, Galaxy and Prairie Watcher. As the exhibition now draws to a close, it seemed natural to once again seek community input to decide which one of two pieces should remain in Pentwater on permanent display. By an indisputable vote, Gypsy was chosen and will be donated by the Pentwater
Arts Council to the Village of Pentwater. This favored art piece is currently on display on the north side of the channel into Pentwater. While the community clearly chose Gypsy to remain in the village, some community interest has been voiced for Time Passes, another popular sculpture located at the Pentwater Public Library, as a complement to the renewed landscaping that will take place at the library and Park Place areas. Questions and comments can be directed to Deb Zare at debra.zare@ gmail.com .
Time is running short. The community, area visitors and summer residents are encouraged to view all 2024-2025 village sculpture pieces before they are removed in early June. Booklets with maps are found in the Chamber office.
Oceana County woman wins $1M playing Millionaire Raffle game
An Oceana County woman turned a $100 online prize into a $1 million prize playing the Michigan Lottery’s Millionaire Raffle game!
The lucky 63-year-old player, who chose to remain anonymous, bought her raffle ticket online at MichiganLottery.com.
“I won $100 playing an online game, so I decided to use some of my winnings to purchase Powerball and Mega Millions tickets online,” said the player. “When I was purchasing those tickets, I saw the Millionaire Raffle game and thought: ‘Why not?’ and purchased one ticket.
“I forgot I had purchased the raffle ticket until I saw an email from the Lottery one day with information on claiming my prize. I didn’t believe it when I logged into my Lottery account and saw a $1 million prize pending. I logged out and logged back in several times and the prize was still there, so I knew it had to be real. I am still trying to wrap my head around it!”
“Purchasing a Millionaire Raffle ticket
on a whim led to a huge $1 million payday for this lucky player!” said Lottery Commissioner Suzanna Shkreli. “The Lottery’s online platform offers players several different ways to play and win with online instant games, draw games, and online raffles, including the Millionaire Raffle game.”
The lucky player visited Lottery headquarters recently to claim her prize. She plans to save her winnings.
Millionaire Raffle is an auto-renewing raffle game which launched Dec. 10. The game offers 100,000 tickets available for purchase. Once all 100,000 tickets are sold, a drawing is conducted. Each drawing awards one $1 million top prize and 100 $1,000 prizes. After the drawing takes place, tickets for the next drawing become available for purchase.
Players may check their tickets by viewing the winning raffle numbers online at MichiganLottery.com. Players also may check their tickets by logging into their Michigan Lottery account.
Golden Township treasurer Connie Cargill named MTA immediate past president
Golden Township (Oceana Co.) Treasurer Connie Cargill will serve on the Michigan Townships Association (MTA) executive committee as the Association’s immediate past president, following her term as 2024 president. Serving more than 99 percent of Michigan’s 1,240 townships—which includes more than 6,500 elected leaders plus tens of thousands of additional township-appointed officials, staff and volunteers, MTA is the largest municipal association in the state, and one of the largest in the nation.
Cargill, who has served as township treasurer since 1995, was first elected to the MTA Board of Directors in 2012.
“I am grateful for my time as president of the Michigan Townships Association, and look forward to continuing help lead this great organization this year as immediate past president,” Cargill said. “Over the past year, I have been privileged to travel the state and meet so many of our members—including those newly elected in November. It has been wonderful to see our unique townships—and the unity that we have among township government and within the Association.”
Cargill previously served as township deputy treasurer and is retired from the Oceana County Drain Office. She is currently a member of the Oceana County Land Bank Authority Board, treasurer of the Oceana County MTA Chapter, and chair of the Materials Management Planning Commission for the West Michigan 5-County Region. Cargill also serves on the Silver Lake and Lake Holiday Improvement Boards and as a board member of the Oceana Agricultural Society.
Ottawa County man wins Wild Time Fast Cash progressive jackpot in Walkerville
An Ottawa County man plans to use his good fortune to help others after winning a $667,862 Double Win Wild Time Fast Cash jackpot.
“I play Fast Cash games all the time,” said the lucky 69-year-old player, who chose to remain anonymous. “I
bought a few Fast Cash tickets while I was out to eat with my family and saw I matched number 44 with ‘Jackpot’ underneath. I handed the
ticket to my son and jokingly said: ‘What does jackpot mean?’ He freaked out and scanned the ticket on his Lottery app to dou -
ble check it.
“Winning is a nice little kicker and will allow me to help others.”
The player bought his winning ticket at
Oceana County
Animal Shelter
Raven needs a loving home. Raven’s story is one of resilience, love, and the unwavering spirit of a cat who refuses to let her past define her. This 2-year-old “mini panther” has faced hardships no animal should endure, but through it all, she has remained sweet, gentle, and full of love.
Raven is recovering from burns on her skin, a painful reminder of the challenges she has overcome. But despite everything, she still leans into every gentle touch, purrs at the kindness of a warm hand, and seeks out the love and comfort of those who care for her. She is proof that even in the darkest moments, love and kindness can bring healing.
This special girl is not just beautiful with her sleek black coat and soulful eyes—she is incredibly friendly. She loves attention, gentle pets, and soft places to rest. Raven has a heart that shines brighter than any scar, and she is now searching for a home where she will always feel safe, cherished, and adored.
Meet Raven
Raven is available for adoption from the Oceana County Animal Shelter. If interested, please call the shelter at 231-8615395. 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 231730-3906. Free tags are also available at the Oceana County Animal Shelter.
Meet Sophie Animal Friends
Hello, I’m Sophie. I may be young, but I’ve got a spirit as timeless as the stars. I value my independence, but that doesn’t mean I don’t cherish companionship. I’m sweet as honey, and my loyalty is steadfast. I prefer quiet afternoons, just observing the world in a mellow state. You’ll find I’m not like other cats. I have a serene grace about me, a calming presence that’s rare. I don’t ask for much, just a little love and understanding. I promise, in return, I’ll be the most loyal friend you’ve ever had. So, why adopt me? Well, if you’re looking for a sweet, loyal and independent companion, I’m your girl. I’ll fill your home with tranquility and unwavering loyalty. Together, we can make a house a home.
If you would like to adopt Sophie, please fill out an application through the OCAF Facebook page: Oceana County Animal Friends or online at: oceanacountyanimalfriends.wordpress.com
Freemans Leaky Tap, located at 10193 Dickinson Ave. in Walkerville. This retailer has been particularly lucky for Fast Cash players and
sold a $111,368 Jackpot Slots Fast Cash jackpot in January 2024. The player recently visited Lottery headquarters to claim his prize. With his winnings, he plans to share with his family and donate to charities and his church.
Fast Cash games are a series of instant-win games that print from terminals at Lottery retailers. Fast Cash games offer a progressive jackpot that can be won instantly. Every Fast Cash ticket gives players a chance to win all or part of the progressive jackpot. All of the Fast Cash games feed into one jackpot, which grows with every ticket purchased. The current jackpot amount prints on each ticket, so players always know the amount of the jackpot up for grabs. The jackpot may be won at any time. As soon as the jackpot is hit, a new one starts to grow.
A Faithful Focus: Camp Tall Turf Making a difference for nearly 60 years
By Sharon Hallack The Oceana Echo Community Correspondent
Located approximately 5 miles southeast of Walkerville, on beautiful Campbell Lake in southern Leavitt Township, Camp Tall Turf (CTT), the largest ministry of Tall Turf Ministries, located in Grand Rapids, has been uniting faith, friendship and reconciliation since 1968. According to their website, CTT got its name from the many tall trees located across its 240 acres “stretching heavenward and claiming the land as God’s turf.”
It was 57 years ago when a group of pastors and businessmen, looking for “a creative and faith-filled way to address the racial unrest in the Grand Rapids area,” established Camp Tall Turf. Ever since, the camp has been driven by four core principles: reconciliation with God, reconciliation with others, reconciliation with nature and reconciliation with oneself. These verses from 2 Corinthians 5:18-19 help to guide this ministry. “And all of this is a gift of God, who brought us back to himself through Christ. And God has given us this task of reconciling people to him. For God was in Christ, reconciling the world to himself, no longer counting people’s sins against them. And he gave us this wonderful message of reconciliation.”
“Today CTT serves between 500-600 campers from across West Michigan, and even as far as Chicago and Detroit,” President and CEO of Camp Tall Turf Marcus Hargrave said. “I think we’re a well-kept secret. God definitely took his time making this camp. It’s gorgeous, but what happens here is even more beautiful.”
Second-generation staff member David Brasser shared on the camp’s website, “To summarize camp in one sentence is to take people out of their comfort zones to teach them. It brings people together who would not nor-
mally associate with each other. It forces people to look around and see what God has made.”
Hargrave’s beginnings are similar to many of the campers CTT now serves. He and his two siblings were children of a single mom. He was blessed to get a college degree and ended up working for the YMCA organization for 25 years in New York, Illinois and Virginia, but wanted to do something more Biblically focused. Hargrave has been with CTT for the past 10 years, “I stay because I see Kingdom-work all the time.”
“The ministry’s goal from the offset was to find a place where people, especially kids, could come together. With kids it’s simple; they just want to play. Camp gives kids a chance to get to know other people and break down barriers. It doesn’t matter what color their skin is,” continued Hargrave. “Our hope is that by exposing kids to each other at camp, they will go home and tell their family and friends they met someone at camp who was different from them, and it was ok.”
This summer, campers ages 8 to 13, can choose from three unique five-day camp sessions. “Explorers” will run June 16-20, “Olympics” will be the week of June 23-27 and “Christmas in August” is set for August 4-8, 2025. These fun-filled themed weeks will offer many traditional camp-type activities like swimming, kayaking and fishing, hiking, archery, sports and working with animals, all centered around fun, faith and fellowship.
A week of camp costs $450, yet many campers are able to attend for only $50. “Thanks to generous financial contributions from the Gerber Foundation and the Fremont Area Community Foundation, this year CTT will be able to make up the $400 difference for most of its campers. Hargrave also shared that the
camp was able to make a lot of physical improvements after a $2M capital campaign back in 2018-2020. “Most gifts were between $50-100. That’s a lot of donors!” he exclaimed.
“It’s important for organizations like ours to continue to do what we do, which is to continue to transform communities through reconciliation,” Hargrave said. “We need to remember we’re raising the next generation, and those with skills will be in demand.”
Many former campers and staff have wonderful stories of transformation as a result of working at or attending CTT. They testify to taking the lifeskills they learned at camp back home to their communities and on into their own futures. “Working here was one of the best decisions I ever made,” said one former staff member.
“Even though CTT was born out of the turbulence of the 60s, sometimes you look around and are dismayed at the lack of progress our communities have experienced. Our society still needs Tall Turf. It still needs to be creative and faithful in addressing those needs for campers of all ages and for families,” former board member Dr. Steve Timmermans shared in a video on the website.
Family camps, held each weekend of July and the first weekend in August, are meant to bring families together, away from the distractions of their regular schedules, for some serious family fun and bonding. CTT also offers qualifying teens the opportunity to participate in their LIT (Leaders in Training) program.
Past board chair Lydia Kuyvenhoven shared her thoughts on how CTT is changing lives in a video produced for the ministry’s capital campaign, “CTT has been creating leaders in communities since it began over 50 years ago. We
want to continue to create leaders for communities not just in Grand Rapids but around the world as they go on to serve God’s purpose for their lives.”
While Camp Tall Turf offers a full-service Christian summer camp from June through August, its beautiful facilities, including the Proctor Youth and Family Center, dining hall, 16 separate cabins, commercial kitchen, rustic campsites and waterfront are also available for rent when camp is not in session. The Proctor Youth and Family Center, which includes lodging for 30 and a kitchen, is available for rent to anyone from September through May.
Camper registration is open now and any Oceana County child, age 8 to 13, is welcome to apply. For those in need of financial assistance, the Shelby Rotary and two local foundations are providing scholarships.
CTT is also currently hiring individuals for summer positions, including program manager, camp counselors, youth leaders in training staff and mentors, as well as waterfront director, food service manager, health and wellness officer and staff pastor.
CTT is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization and is able to accept tax-deductible donations to offset the cost of summer camp. CTT is accredited by the American Camp Association and has received a “Platinum” rating with Guidestar.org, a platform providing the information needed for those wishing to invest in nonprofit organizations. “It shows we are committed to accurate financial transparency, inclusion and strategic planning,” Hargrave said.
Please visit www.camptallturf.org to apply for summer camp or employment opportunities.
Those wishing to give toward any part of the ministry are invited to visit www.camptallturf.org/give to view their 2024 Camp Wish List and/or make tax-deductible donations online via Paypal, Tithle.ly or Venmo.
Detroit Lions legends take on Hart staff in charity basketball game
SHELBY TOWNSHIP
Synopsis of Meeting
May 05, 2025
Regular meeting called to order at 7:00pm
Present: Scott Meyers, Becky Griffin, Cathy Anderson, Richard Raffaelli and 3 members of the public. Absent – Cindy Rapes
Items approved:
• Minutes from the 04/07/2025 Regular Board Meeting
• Resolution # 250505-1 (Adjust Cemetery Pricing for Mt. Hope and New Era Cemeteries).
• Pay bills presented by Clerk
Copies of meeting minutes are available from the Township and approved minutes are on our website www.shelbytownshipoceana.com
GOLDEN TOWNSHIP
Synopsis of Meeting
May 13, 2025
Regular Meeting called to order at 6:30 PM. Present: Robert Draper, Connie Cargill, Rachel Iteen, Bill Kolenda, Doug Dykstra and 11 guests.
Items approved:
• Minutes of Last month’s Township Board Meeting & Election Commission Meeting
• Bills Approved for Payment
• 5-Year Park Plan
• Port-a-Jons Contract
• Zoning Administrator
• Maintenance Person
• Township Road Projects
Meeting adjourned at 7:33 p.m.
Copies of meeting minutes are available from the township and approved minutes on our website, www.goldentownship.org.
- Rachel Iteen, Clerk
By Brendan Samuels
The Oceana Echo Sports Editor
HART – While the ethics of the officiating crew inside Hart High School’s gym during a charity basketball game Sunday, May 4 may come into question, the Detroit Lions Legends team defeated Hart Public Schools’ staff members by a score of 52-49. Plenty of silly antics could be seen on the court. In addition to the game, there were wrestling matches at midcourt, a flex-off between Aden Fralic and Cory Schlesinger and way too many trash cans wheeled onto the hardwood. The Detroit Lions Legends were made up of Schlesinger, Herman Moore, Brock Guiterrez, Scott Conover, George Jamison and Rob Rubick. Hart’s team was made up of Joe Tanis, Dean DeVries, Bud Giddings, Madison Meek, Mark Fralic, Kara Baker, Anthony Brinkman, Calvin Ackley and Sarah Pioli.
NEWFIELD TOWNSHIP SPRING CLEAN-UP DAY
Newfield Township will hold its annual Spring Clean-Up day on SATURDAY, MAY 31, 2025. Clean-Up day will take place at the Newfield Township Hall, 3890 S 198th Ave. Hesperia, Mi. 49421 and run from 8 AM UNTIL 1 PM (or until the dumpsters are full).
We will accept household goods and trash, construction debris, metals, old batteries, and various items. Yard Waste, Hazardous Waste, TVs and Electronics, and Tires will NOT be accepted.
This year we will be able to offer pick-up of debris and allowable items for our senior residents and residents with disabilities. Please call Joan at 231-854-1089 to make arrangements. This is open to Newfield Township residents only. Including those residing in the Village of Hesperia. Proof of residency will be required. Further information may be obtained by contacting Steven Micklin, Newfield Township Zoning Administrator, at 231-301-0181.
• Brendan Samuels/Echo
Ludington too much to handle for Hart girls soccer
By: Brendan Samuels
The Oceana Echo Sports Editor
HART – Ludington’s girls soccer team is undefeated at the top of the West Michigan Conference (WMC) for a reason. Hart learned that quickly as the Orioles bested them in a 7-0 affair Monday, May 12.
Ludington owns a highly skilled and experienced roster, but Hart Head Coach Joe Gilbert was just as unimpressed with his own team’s performance as he was impressed with the Orioles’.
“We got the better of ourselves more than anything,” Gilbert said. “(Ludington) was running off the ball and we just weren’t sticking with the runners or tracking our marks. We just let them go. It’s that little bit of extra effort and doing the small things that we just didn’t execute tonight. Give it up to Ludington though. If they play like that against every team, might as well give them the (WMC) title.”
The Orioles were on a heater from the jump, cutting through Hart’s midfield and defense with ease. Before ten minutes had passed from the opening whistle, Ludington owned a 2-0 lead.
Ludington added another three goals
before the first half came to a close, burying Hart in a 5-0 hole that seemed insurmountable against the league’s best team.
“It’s a long season and we’ve had three games a week for a lot of the time,” Gilbert said. “We’re a little tired, but that shouldn’t be an excuse for tonight. We’ve got to come into every game and know that if we want to compete at the top of the conference, (the effort in a 3-1 upset over Fremont) is what we need every game.”
A hot and sunny day did nothing to help Hart, as they were visibly tired in the second half. The physical toil of the game was matched with a defeated aura surrounding the team. Still, the Pirates managed to keep Ludington at bay in the second half, only allowing two more goals to be scored before the end of regulation.
Since the loss to Ludington, the Pirates added one final win to their conference total with a 10-2 defeat of Orchard View Wednesday, May 14. Hart now stands at 9-5-3 overall, with a 6-3-1 finish in the WMC. That’ll likely spell a fifth place finish for the Pirates.
Hart has two more non-conference games
Hart Soccer continued on page 14
Hart track and field wins girls and boys conference titles
Lorenz early qualifies for second state finals event
By: Brendan Samuels The Oceana Echo Sports Editor
SCOTTVILLE – For the fourth year in a row, Hart’s girls track and field team are conference champs, running away with a West Michigan Conference (WMC) title Friday, May 9. This year, the girls were rejoined at the top by the boys team, marking the second time both teams have earned the top spot in the WMC Rivers in the last three seasons.
The girls decimated their opponents, earning a total of 256 points – a mark that came close to surpassing all other team’s points combined. Mason County Central (MCC) was the Pirates’ closest competition, coming in second with 88 points.
Hart’s girls had too many top six finishers to count. Lilly Hopkins
had a fruitful day in the individual sprints, placing first in the 200-meter dash as well as the 400. Natalie Rosema was a star in the long distance events, posting top finishes in both the 800 and 1,600.
Rosema was also a member of the 1,600 relay team that took first, alongside teammates Rosemary Hernandez, Joselyn Flores and Emery Velat. Hopkins was a member of the first place 800 relay team with Lexie Nienhuis, Addison Hain and Addi Hovey.
Also notching top six finishes for the girls was Hain in the 100 (3rd), Nienhuis in both the 200 and 400 (2nd), Hernandez in the 400 (3rd), Flores in the 400 (5th), Schaner in the 800 (2nd) and 3,200 (1st), Harriet Kidder in the 800 (3rd), Velat in the 800 (4th), Anaya Vander Zwaag in the 800 (6th), Bryn Riley in the 1,600 and 3,200 (2nd), Brooklyn Carter in the 1,600 (6th) and Kenai Kokx in the 3,200 (5th).
Freshman Ellie Gross was the only Pirate on the girls team to place in the hurdle events. Gross took third in both the 100 and 300 hurdles.
Rounding out the relays were a pair of top finishes. Velat, Hain, Hovey and Ava Johnson snagged first in the 400 relay before Kokx, Shaner, Riley and Vander Zwaag took first in the
3,200 relay. The Pirates also found success in the field events. Shelbie Choponis took first in both throwing events, tossing a personal record (PR) mark of 311.5 in shot put and a 107-4 mark in discus. Evalyn Flores placed fifth in discus at 85-2.
WMC Champs continued on page 14
Gauthier’s speed highlights pair of fifth place team finishes for Shelby
By: Brendan Samuels
The Oceana Echo Sports Editor
SCOTTVILLE – Shelby’s boys and girls track and field teams took fifth at the West Michigan Conference (WMC) Championship Friday, May 9. Senior Trey Gauthier was the star of the night for the Tigers however, claiming the only first place finish for Shelby.
Gauthier – a member of Shelby’s state qualifying 400-meter relay team in 2024 – has speed to spare. That was evident in the 100 dash in Scottville on Friday, as he raced to first place with a time of 11.30.
That mark was just .2 seconds away from an early qualifying (EQ) mark. Gauthier beat out the WMC’s best, as Chase Lorenz (11.31) from Hart came in a very close second.
In total, Shelby’s boys team racked up 36 points which slotted them in fifth place.
Snagging points for the boys by placing in the top six were Gauthier, Venancio Cadena, Isaac Garcia, Elijah Dashiell, Alex Crowder, Jaylin Henderson and Casey Lamblin.
Cadena (4th) and Garcia (6th) placed in the 200 dash, while Dashiell (4th) and Crowder (6th) earned points in the 400 and 3,200 respectively. Henderson and Lamblin excelled in the throwing events, with Lamblin throwing 1233 in discus to take fifth and Henderson matching that fifth placement with a 35-8.5 throw in shot put.
Shelby ran two relay teams that reached the finals for the boys. The 400 relay team of Garcia, Gauthier, Cadena and Dashiell took third (45.26) while the 800 relay team with the same members took third as well (1:35.24).
The Lady Tigers had a higher point total than the boys, scoring 42 which also landed them in fifth.
The individual running events were highlighted by a fourth place finish from sophomore Noel Parker (1:07.60) in the 400. Freshman Ava Lamberg (1:08.29) also earned points in that same event, finishing sixth.
Jade Harris-Anderson, Grace Hasenbank, April Luna and Annabelle Stark also earned placements in the individual running events.
Harris-Anderson (29.95) took sixth in the 200, Hasenbank (6:14.79) was fifth in the 1,600, Luna (14:41.62) took sixth in the 3,200 and Stark (18.82) was fifth in the 100 hurdles.
Shelby’s Trey Gauthier sprints toward the finish line in the 100-meter dash.
• Brendan Samuels/ECHO
Hart sophomore Natalie Rosema rises up to meet a ball in the air. • Brendan Samuels/ECHO
Hart’s girls (above top) and boys (above, bottom) track and field teams each won a WMC title in Scottville Friday, May 9. • Brendan Samuels/ECHO
WMC Champs Shelby Track
Joselyn Flores took first in the high jump with a mark of five feet, while German foreign exchange student Sarah Kranz took first in long jump with a PR of 1410. Johnson took third in the long jump while Hernandez took fifth. Nienhuis and Lauren Hopkins rounded out the field events, taking the top two spots in pole vault.
Hart’s boys team returned to the top of the conference leaderboard after taking second in 2024. The Pirates totaled 181 points, beating out North Muskegon who posted 143.
Chase Lorenz did a fair amount of heavy lifting, placing second in the 100, first in the 200 and 400 and joining Carter Ramseyer, Bryce VanderKodde and Lyric Fielder for a first place finish in the 800 relay. Lorenz early qualified (EQ) for his second individual meet at the upcoming D3 State Finals, hitting the exact mark of 22.80 needed in the 200. Ramseyer also helped out, placing fourth in the 100 and second in both the 200 and 400.
Silas Ackley had a nice day in the distance races, taking second in the 1,600 and first in the 3,200. Martin Fetterhoff
continued from page 13 continued
(3rd), Mason Opalewski (4th), Grant Ackley (5th) also placed in the 1,600 while Opalewski (2nd) and Timothy Wolff (4th) placed in the 3,200.
Also snagging top six finishes in the individual races were VanderKodde (5th) in the 200, Jack Slotman (5th) in the 400, Trevor VanderKodde (2nd) in the 800, Noah Wolff (4th) in the 800 and Grant Ackley (5th) in the 800.
Lyric Fielder and Pablo Ortega-Rubio also earned placement points in the 300 hurdles. Fielder took second in that event while Ortega-Rubio took sixth. Fielder was .08 seconds away from hitting an EQ time, putting a 41.28 time on the board.
The relay teams had success as well. Joining the 800 relay team in first place was the 3,200
relay team of Grant Ackley, Trevor VanderKodde, Opalewski and Fetterhoff. Slotman, Ortega-Rubio, Trevor VanderKodde and Fielder took second in the 1,600 relay while Bryce VanderKodde, Elon Babbin, Eman Hertzler and Tyler Larios-Mendez took fourth in the 400 relay.
The field events had several top five finishers. Caleb Ackley took third in shot put while Alex Hicks claimed second in discus. Trevor VanderKodde was a third place finisher in high jump with Larios-Mendez taking fifth in long jump. Jagger Lenon (2nd) and Grant Ackley (5th) rounded it out in pole vault.
Both of Hart’s teams will have one final meet before the State Finals, as they will compete at Regionals in Chippewa Hills Saturday, May 17.
Pentwater athletes set new school records, Brown qualifies for state meet
By: Brendan Samuels
The Oceana Echo Sports Editor
SCOTTVILLE – Pentwater’s track and field team has set a few new school records over the past few weeks.
At the Lake Michigan Carferry Track & Field Invite in Scottville Friday, April 25, the Falcons’ 400-meter relay team composed of Logan Fatura, Chase McGuire-VanGills, Trey Johnson and Kaleb Brown posted a time of 46.39. That mark broke a Pentwater record that was set in 2018.
Alongside that school record, 15 athletes set new personal records and 10 medals were earned.
Fatura, McGuire-VanGills, Johnson and Brown went on to break that same record at the West Michigan D League (WMD) Championship
Pentwater senior Kaleb Brown poses next to the newly changed school record board at Penwater High School. Brown recently set a pair of school records, one as a member of the Falcons 400-meter relay team and one in the 400 dash. • Brendan Samuels/ECHO
Tuesday, May 6. The Falcon quartet posted a time of 46.14, beating their previous record by .25 seconds.
Most recently, Brown shattered the Pentwater 400 dash record at the MOM Track and Field Invite in Ludington Monday, May 12. Brown recorded a time of 51.43 that beat out the previous time of 52.02 set by
Shelby ran three relays on the girls team, with the 800 relay team placing the best. That team, made up of Nova Gottschalk, Lamberg, Harris-Anderson and Stark, took second place (1:56.73). The 3,200 relay team of Hasenbank, Luna, Parker and Kathryn Beyer (11:26.68) also took second.
Rounding out the running events were two third place finishes in the 400 and 1,600 relays. The 400 relay team consisted of Gottschalk, Lamberg, Harris-Anderson, Stark (56.43) and the 1,600 relay team included Kylie Brown, Stark, Lamberg and Parker.
Brown and Gottschalk were the only two girls to gain placement points in field events for Shelby. Brown hit a personal record of 4-8 in the high jump for fifth
Hart Soccer
to finish the regular season as they hit the road on Friday, May 16 to take on McBain Northern Michigan Christian before heading to Lakeview Monday, May 19.
“McBain graduated some of their top girls, but they’re not going to be a pushover at all,” Gilbert said. “That’s one we should be look-
Max Stoneman in 2017. Brown also earned an early qualification for the D4 State Championship meet, meeting the 51.80 standard required. Pentwater track and field will be back in action Saturday, May 17 as they head to Brethren for the Regional 33-4 meet for a final chance to qualify athletes for the state meet.
place while Gottschalk (6th) jumped 142.5 in long jump.
Shelby will be back in action Saturday, May 17 when they head to Remus for the regional competition at Chippewa Hills.
ing to win. Then we’ve got Lakeview who is looking good. We want to take it to them and set the tone for districts.”
Hart will start district tournament play Wednesday, May 21 when they host Chippewa Hills whom they defeated once this season already (Hart won 7-0 Thursday, April 17).
Lack of offense dooms
Shelby girls soccer in loss to North Muskegon
By: Brendan Samuels The Oceana Echo Sports Editor
SHELBY – Shelby’s girls soccer team couldn’t find the recipe for success Wednesday, May 14, falling to North Muskegon, the No. 2 team in the West Michigan Conference (WMC), 4-0.
The Tigers struggled mightily from the opening touch, allowing the Norsemen to keep the ball in scoring position for a majority of the night. After 13 minutes had gone by in the first half, North Muskegon found the net, following it up with another goal two minutes later.
Though Shelby tried, the Tigers couldn’t find a rhythm on offense. That has been the case for a majority of the season as they’ve scored just 24 goals through 18 games played. 15 of those goals came over the course of two games.
The loss of senior Alyse Erickson just over a week ago didn’t help. Erickson acted as a distributor in the midfield area, setting up strikers like Kylie Brown, Annabelle
Stark and Kylee Hanson for scoring opportunities. Now, Brown has been forced to play more in the midfield, limiting her chances to get out and run.
Multiple times throughout the Tigers’ loss to North Muskegon, the offense found themselves one or two passes away from a clear look at the net. The Norsemen were sound on defense however, intercepting errant balls and turning them up the field.
That led to two additional goals in the second half that pushed the game out of reach.
For all the dysfunction that Shelby’s offense has experienced in 2025, the defense has kept the
team in contention. That was no different against North Muskegon. Micaela Diaz, Sydney Reed and Audrey Horton did a nice job keeping the ball clear from keeper Brylee Friedman. The majority of shots that the Norsemen managed to get off, were met with gloves of Friedman on a plethora of saves.
Shelby fell to 4-12-2 overall with the loss as the Tigers stand at 1-8-1 in the WMC. Shelby will wrap up their regular season at home Monday, May 19 as they take on Montague. The Tigers will then prepare for a Tuesday, May 27 matchup with McBain Northern Christian to start the district tournament.
Hart’s Addison Barefoot battles with a Ludington defender near the net. • Brendan Samuels/ECHO
Shelby’s Nova Gottschalk sends sand flying as she lands in the long jump pit. • Brendan Samuels/ECHO
Shelby keeper Brylee Friedman reaches an outstretched arm to knock a shot away. • Brendan Samuels/ECHO
Hart junior Lyric Fielder leaps over the hurdles as he races toward the finish line. • Brendan Samuels/ECHO
Reflections of our community
Reflections of our community
Reflections of our community
White Lake Mirror White Lake Mirror
White Lake Mirror White Lake Mirror
White Lake Mirror White Lake Mirror
YOUR LOCALLY OWNED AND OPERATED NONPROFIT NEWS SOURCE
YOUR LOCALLY OWNED AND OPERATED NONPROFIT NEWS SOURCE
YOUR LOCALLY OWNED AND OPERATED NONPROFIT NEWS SOURCE
We need your help!
Please
We need your help! Please nominate Echo Publishing Inc. for a
nominate Echo Publishing Inc.
By Sharon Hallack
By Sharon Hallack
By Sharon Hallack
The
The Oceana Echo Community Correspondent
Energy (GLE)
The Oceana Echo Community Correspondent
Oceana Echo Community Correspondent
Echo Publishing Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, is only able to provide The Oceana Echo/White Lake Mirror on a weekly basis to our community through the generous contributions of our readers and supporters. Whether through advertising, regular or one-time donations or grant funds, each dollar goes to producing the newspaper many enjoy and have come to rely on for their local news. In the next two weeks, Oceana Echo/White Lake Mirror readers (who are also Great Lakes Energy customers) have the unique opportunity to help fund EPI operations without spending a dime. EPI readers, who are Great Lakes
Echo Publishing Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, is only able to provide The Oceana Echo/White Lake Mirror on a weekly basis to our community through the generous contributions of our readers and supporters. Whether through advertising, regular or one-time donations or grant funds, each dollar goes to producing the newspaper many enjoy and have come to rely on for their local news. In the next two weeks, Oceana Echo/White Lake Mirror readers (who are also Great Lakes Energy customers) have the unique opportunity to help fund EPI operations without spending a dime. EPI readers, who are Great Lakes
Echo Publishing Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, is only able to provide The Oceana Echo/White Lake Mirror on a weekly basis to our community through the generous contributions of our readers and supporters. Whether through advertising, regular or one-time donations or grant funds, each dollar goes to producing the newspaper many enjoy and have come to rely on for their local news. In the next two weeks, Oceana Echo/White Lake Mirror readers (who are also Great Lakes Energy customers) have the unique opportunity to help fund EPI operations without spending a dime. EPI readers, who are Great Lakes
Energy (GLE) members, are invited to nominate our nonprofit for GLE’s annual Community Grant Giveaway program from now until 5 p.m. May 23. See simple nomination instructions below.
members, are invited to nominate our nonprofit for GLE’s annual Community Grant Giveaway program from now until 5 p.m. May 23. See simple nomination instructions below.
Energy (GLE) members, are invited to nominate our nonprofit for GLE’s annual Community Grant Giveaway program from now until 5 p.m. May 23. See simple nomination instructions below.
Following the nomination period, GLE staff will review all submissions from across the cooperative’s northern, central and southern regions and select a list of finalists.
Following the nomination period, GLE staff will review all submissions from across the cooperative’s northern, central and southern regions and select a list of finalists.
Following the nomination period, GLE staff will review all submissions from across the cooperative’s northern, central and southern regions and select a list of finalists.
If EPI is fortunate to be selected as a finalist, GLE members will have from June 9-20 to vote on which organization, from among the finalists, should receive one of three $10,000 grant awards. One vote will be allowed per member.
If EPI is fortunate to be selected as a finalist, GLE members will have from June 9-20 to vote on which organization, from among the finalists, should receive one of three $10,000 grant awards. One vote will be allowed per member.
If EPI is fortunate to be selected as a finalist, GLE members will have from June 9-20 to vote on which organization, from among the finalists, should receive one of three $10,000 grant awards. One vote will be allowed per member.
The GLE Community Grant Giveaway program (different from the People Fund Grants many are familiar with) has generously awarded $78,000 in
The GLE Community Grant Giveaway program (different from the People Fund Grants many are familiar with) has generously awarded $78,000 in
The GLE Community Grant Giveaway program (different from the People Fund Grants many are familiar with) has generously awarded $78,000 in
for a GLE Community Grant
GLE Community Grant
We need your help! Please nominate Echo Publishing Inc. for a GLE Community Grant
grants over the past four years. The program is made possible through a partnership between GLE and CoBank.
grants over the past four years. The program is made possible through a partnership between GLE and CoBank.
grants over the past four years. The program is made possible through a partnership between GLE and CoBank.
To see a list of 2024 finalists and winners, grant guidelines and to nominate EPI please go to gtlakes. com/community-grant-giveaway and nominate us today!
To see a list of 2024 finalists and winners, grant guidelines and to nominate EPI please go to gtlakes. com/community-grant-giveaway and nominate us today!
To see a list of 2024 finalists and winners, grant guidelines and to nominate EPI please go to gtlakes. com/community-grant-giveaway and nominate us today!
Simple nomination instructions:
Simple nomination instructions:
Simple nomination instructions:
• Visit gtlakes.com/community-grant-giveway
• Visit gtlakes.com/community-grant-giveway
• Visit gtlakes.com/community-grant-giveway
• Use “Echo Publishing Inc.” as the name of the nonprofit.
• Use “Echo Publishing Inc.” as the name of the nonprofit.
• Use “Echo Publishing Inc.” as the name of the nonprofit.
• Write a short, heartfelt message why you feel EPI is a good candidate and should receive this donation more than any other of the several hundred applicants.
• Write a short, heartfelt message why you feel EPI is a good candidate and should receive this donation more than any other of the several hundred applicants.
• Write a short, heartfelt message why you feel EPI is a good candidate and should receive this donation more than any other of the several hundred applicants.
• Use “Paul Erickson” as the nonprofit contact name.
• Use “Paul Erickson” as the nonprofit contact name.
• Use “Paul Erickson” as the nonprofit contact name.
• Use “theoceanaecho.com” as the nonprofit website name.
• Use “theoceanaecho.com” as the nonprofit website name.
• Use “theoceanaecho.com” as the nonprofit website name.
• Use “231-301-8149” as the nonprofit contact phone number.
• Use “231-301-8149” as the nonprofit contact phone number.
• Use “231-301-8149” as the nonprofit contact phone number.
• Use “P.O. Box 192, Mears, MI 49436” as nonprofit address.
• Use “P.O. Box 192, Mears, MI 49436” as nonprofit address.
• Use “P.O. Box 192, Mears, MI 49436” as nonprofit address.
• Use theoceanaecho@gmail.com as the primary contact email.
• Use theoceanaecho@gmail.com as the primary contact email.
• Use theoceanaecho@gmail.com as the primary contact email.
• Enter your name and email address and “Submit.”
• Enter your name and email address and “Submit.”
• Enter your name and email address and “Submit.”
Everyone at EPI once again extends its thanks to ALL of our readers and financial contributors for their generous support these past two years. On June 2 we will celebrate our second anniversary! Thank you for believing in us and celebrating with us! We invite all GLE customers to add their support and nominate us for this exciting funding opportunity!
Everyone at EPI once again extends its thanks to ALL of our readers and financial contributors for their generous support these past two years. On June 2 we will celebrate our second anniversary! Thank you for believing in us and celebrating with us! We invite all GLE customers to add their support and nominate us for this exciting funding opportunity!
Everyone at EPI once again extends its thanks to ALL of our readers and financial contributors for their generous support these past two years. On June 2 we will celebrate our second anniversary! Thank you for believing in us and celebrating with us! We invite all GLE customers to add their support and nominate us for this exciting funding opportunity!
WLA celebrates launch of smart buoy
WLA celebrates launch of smart buoy
WLA celebrates launch of smart buoy
By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor
By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor
By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor
WHITEHALL — The White Lake Association celebrated the pending launch of its smart buoy Saturday with a launch party at Goodrich Park.
WHITEHALL — The White Lake Association celebrated the pending launch of its smart buoy Saturday with a launch party at Goodrich Park.
WHITEHALL — The White Lake Association celebrated the pending launch of its smart buoy Saturday with a launch party at Goodrich Park.
The buoy, which was launched this week - due to its size, it was impractical to attempt a launch at the party - is the result of a $40,000 grant the WLA received from the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy (EGLE). With data collecting capabilities, the buoy will be able to monitor some key environmental factors of the lake in real time.
The buoy, which was launched this week - due to its size, it was impractical to attempt a launch at the party - is the result of a $40,000 grant the WLA received from the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy (EGLE). With data collecting capabilities, the buoy will be able to monitor some key environmental factors of the lake in real time.
The buoy, which was launched this week - due to its size, it was impractical to attempt a launch at the party - is the result of a $40,000 grant the WLA received from the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy (EGLE). With data collecting capabilities, the buoy will be able to monitor some key environmental factors of the lake in real time.
The buoy is, by itself, 75 pounds, but also has equipment attached to it which make it a multiple-person job to at-
The buoy is, by itself, 75 pounds, but also has equipment attached to it which make it a multiple-person job to at-
The buoy is, by itself, 75 pounds, but also has equipment attached to it which make it a multiple-person job to at-
tempt to carry on land. It's an XB-200 model made by NexSens Technology, outfitted with solar panels made by Fondriest Environmental. The panels charge batteries that power the "weather station," said WLA chief science officer Jim DeBoer, who led the writing of the grant application. The weather station is able to pick up above-water measurements such as temperature and humidity and transmit that information through a 4G data connection to WQdatalive.com.
tempt to carry on land. It's an XB-200 model made by NexSens Technology, outfitted with solar panels made by Fondriest Environmental. The panels charge batteries that power the "weather station," said WLA chief science officer Jim DeBoer, who led the writing of the grant application. The weather station is able to pick up above-water measurements such as temperature and humidity and transmit that information through a 4G data connection to WQdatalive.com.
tempt to carry on land. It's an XB-200 model made by NexSens Technology, outfitted with solar panels made by Fondriest Environmental. The panels charge batteries that power the "weather station," said WLA chief science officer Jim DeBoer, who led the writing of the grant application. The weather station is able to pick up above-water measurements such as temperature and humidity and transmit that information through a 4G data connection to WQdatalive.com.
DeBoer said at the moment, he has the login to access that information and will periodically post it to the WLA website, but with donations or grant money, a long-term goal would be to make the data publicly available at all times.
DeBoer said at the moment, he has the login to access that information and will periodically post it to the WLA website, but with donations or grant money, a long-term goal would be to make the data publicly available at all times.
DeBoer said at the moment, he has the login to access that information and will periodically post it to the WLA website, but with donations or grant money, a long-term goal would be to make the data publicly available at all times.
That website will also re-
That website will also re-
That website will also re-
• Andy Roberts/Mirror
• Andy Roberts/Mirror
• Andy Roberts/Mirror
ceive underwater information from the buoy through a thermistor ring, which is able to measure water temperature every five feet down in the lake. The buoy will be placed in the lake at a spot that is relatively close to shore - minimizing the chance of boat collisions with the buoy - but also reaches 70
ceive underwater information from the buoy through a thermistor ring, which is able to measure water temperature every five feet down in the lake. The buoy will be placed in the lake at a spot that is relatively close to shore - minimizing the chance of boat collisions with the buoy - but also reaches 70
ceive underwater information from the buoy through a thermistor ring, which is able to measure water temperature every five feet down in the lake. The buoy will be placed in the lake at a spot that is relatively close to shore - minimizing the chance of boat collisions with the buoy - but also reaches 70
feet underwater, one of the deepest parts of the lake. This will help the WLA obtain the most thorough readings possible.
feet underwater, one of the deepest parts of the lake. This will help the WLA obtain the most thorough readings possible.
will center on not just water
will center on not just water
will center on not just water
Montague Hope Squad focuses on mental health
Montague Hope Squad focuses on mental health
Montague Hope Squad focuses on mental health
By Madison Lajewski White Lake Mirror Writer
By Madison Lajewski White Lake Mirror Writer
By Madison Lajewski White Lake Mirror Writer
May is mental health awareness month, and Montague High School’s Hope Squad has been doing a lot to aid both the student body and the community in promoting mental health discussions, and ending the stigma behind poor mental health and mental illness.
May is mental health awareness month, and Montague High School’s Hope Squad has been doing a lot to aid both the student body and the community in promoting mental health discussions, and ending the stigma behind poor mental health and mental illness.
May is mental health awareness month, and Montague High School’s Hope Squad has been doing a lot to aid both the student body and the community in promoting mental health discussions, and ending the stigma behind poor mental health and mental illness.
MHS junior Addyson Hall and senior Kiley Miller joined Hope Squad with the same goal: to positively impact their school and Montague community.
MHS junior Addyson Hall and senior Kiley Miller joined Hope Squad with the same goal: to positively impact their school and Montague community.
MHS junior Addyson Hall and senior Kiley Miller joined Hope Squad with the same goal: to positively impact their school and Montague community.
“I had a couple of friends in Hope Squad, and I was wanting to help around my community and help my fellow peers,” Hall said. “I thought it would be a good way to get engaged.”
“I had a couple of friends in Hope Squad, and I was wanting to help around my community and help my fellow peers,” Hall said. “I thought it would be a good way to get engaged.”
“I had a couple of friends in Hope Squad, and I was wanting to help around my community and help my fellow peers,” Hall said. “I thought it would be a good way to get engaged.”
“I had a close connection with somebody in town who committed suicide and it had a big impact,” said Miller. “People were trying to share her story, spread awareness around the whole
community.”
“I had a close connection with somebody in town who committed suicide and it had a big impact,” said Miller. “People were trying to share her story, spread awareness around the whole community.”
“I had a close connection with somebody in town who committed suicide and it had a big impact,” said Miller. “People were trying to share her story, spread awareness around the whole community.”
Hope Squad recognized mental health awareness month in March, to allow seniors to fully participate.
Hope Squad recognized mental health awareness month in March, to allow seniors to fully participate.
Hope Squad recognized mental health awareness month in March, to allow seniors to fully participate.
“We did a project called ‘take what you need,’ Miller said. “There were a lot of positive affirmations for when students were having a bad day. Another project was ‘shred your stress.’ Even though it’s not actually physically doing anything about your stress, it feels good to be able to do something with it metaphorically.”
“We did a project called ‘take what you need,’ Miller said. “There were a lot of positive affirmations for when students were having a bad day. Another project was ‘shred your stress.’ Even though it’s not actually physically doing anything about your stress, it feels good to be able to do something with it metaphorically.”
“We did a project called ‘take what you need,’ Miller said. “There were a lot of positive affirmations for when students were having a bad day. Another project was ‘shred your stress.’ Even though it’s not actually physically doing anything about your stress, it feels good to be able to do something with it metaphorically.”
“We did a photo booth this year as well,” said Hall. “We took photos of everybody and made signs out of cardboard that said many quotes promoting positive mental health.”
“We did a photo booth this year as well,” said Hall. “We took photos of everybody and made signs out of cardboard that said many quotes promoting positive mental health.”
“We did a photo booth this year as well,” said Hall. “We took photos of everybody and made signs out of cardboard that said many quotes promoting positive mental health.”
A few years ago, MHS counselor Alyssa Bernardi was approached by the district superintendent, Jeff Johnson, with the idea.
A few years ago, MHS counselor Alyssa Bernardi was approached by the district superintendent, Jeff Johnson, with the idea.
A few years ago, MHS counselor Alyssa Bernardi was approached by the district superintendent, Jeff Johnson, with the idea.
“There may have been a couple other teachers interested, but we only needed
“There may have been a couple other teachers interested, but we only needed
“There may have been a couple other teachers interested, but we only needed
one at the time because we only had one seminar class,” Bernardi said. “(Johnson) said Montague had the opportunity to have a Hope Squad funded. He kind of put me in charge of figuring out if this
one at the time because we only had one seminar class,” Bernardi said. “(Johnson) said Montague had the opportunity to have a Hope Squad funded. He kind of put me in charge of figuring out if this
one at the time because we only had one seminar class,” Bernardi said. “(Johnson) said Montague had the opportunity to have a Hope Squad funded. He kind of put me in charge of figuring out if this
is something our district wants and is interested in.”
is something our district wants and is interested in.”
is something our district wants and is interested in.”
The underwater readings
Smart buoy continued on page 7
White Lake Association science officer Jim DeBoer introduces the new smart buoy at Saturday's launch party at Goodrich Park. The buoy will monitor the health of the lake. • Andy Roberts/Mirror
The new White Lake Association smart buoy was cleverly replicated in cake form during Saturday's launch party.
The Montague Hope Squad does several events through the school year, including 'Shred Your Stress,' which allowed students to write down a stressor and put it into a shredder as a metaphorical exercise. • Courtesy Photo
The underwater readings
Smart buoy continued on page 7
White Lake Association science officer Jim DeBoer introduces the new smart buoy at Saturday's launch party at Goodrich Park. The buoy will monitor the health of the lake. • Andy Roberts/Mirror
The new White Lake Association smart buoy was cleverly replicated in cake form during Saturday's launch party.
The Montague Hope Squad does several events through the school year, including 'Shred Your Stress,' which allowed students to write down a stressor and put it into a shredder as a metaphorical exercise. • Courtesy Photo
feet underwater, one of the deepest parts of the lake. This will help the WLA obtain the most thorough readings possible.
The underwater readings
Smart buoy continued on page 7
White Lake Association science officer Jim DeBoer introduces the new smart buoy at Saturday's launch party at Goodrich Park. The buoy will monitor the health of the lake. • Andy Roberts/Mirror
The new White Lake Association smart buoy was cleverly replicated in cake form during Saturday's launch party.
The Montague Hope Squad does several events through the school year, including 'Shred Your Stress,' which allowed students to write down a stressor and put it into a shredder as a metaphorical exercise. • Courtesy Photo Hope Squad
Flock traffic camera trial will go forward in Whitehall
Council takes no action on purchase proposal from police dept.
By Andy Roberts
White
Lake Mirror Editor
WHITEHALL — After some discussion, the Whitehall city council took no action on a proposal from the city's police department to participate in a 60-day free trial of Flock traffic cameras, allowing the trial to go forward.
The original proposal would have approved the payment of an $18,000 annual fee - $3,000 per camera - for the use of six Flock traffic cameras. Flock cameras are pole-mounted and stationary and are able to capture license plate information and store it in a secure database, allowing law enforcement agencies to locate suspects.
Several area municipalities have fielded the free trial offer from Flock in recent months; the Village of Shelby is adding a camera where State and First streets intersect with Michigan Avenue, while Rothbury turned down the free trial.
Detective lieutenant Brandon Mahoney said there are about 60 such cameras in use in Muskegon County, mostly in southern jurisdictions. He added that along with communication with other
jurisdictions, the Flock system recently helped locate a suspect who was participating in a fraud scheme that targeted HarborLight Credit Union. Council member Jeff Holmstrom, a former first responder himself, said in his experience, these "retail fraud rings" are becoming more commonplace and would be among the most likely suspects to be identified by the Flock cameras due to their travel.
However, the council did not want to commit to the annual fee without knowing where it fit into the overall city budget, for which a work session and public hearing will take place later this month. The free trial is permitted to go forward, and if the council determines it wants to pay for use of the cameras after the trial, a budget amendment could be brought forward. Mahoney said if the city does not purchase the service, Flock would remove the cameras.
Council member Tom Ziemer said he did not see the need for six traffic cameras for a city this size, and council member Scott Brown said he would prefer to see the Flock costs as part of the police department budget before determining approval.
On the topic of budget hearings, the council set a May 19 work session regarding the city budget at 5 p.m., to precede a May 27 public hearing that will be part of the regular council meeting. There was some discussion of moving
the date, as both mayor Steven Salter and Brown will be out of town May 19, but no other date between Tuesday and May 27 worked for all members of council either. Salter said he and Brown would be able to provide their input on the budget by email with council members and city manager Scott Huebler. Brown dissented on the 6-1 vote to approve the dates.
The council unanimously approved a change to parking regulations in the city with regard to River Street. Upon a resident's complaint about parking being prohibited on River between the intersection with Franklin and the end of the street, police chief Roger Squiers said he was unable to find a compelling reason for the requirement. The city will instead prohibit parking only within a 30-foot radius of a fire hydrant on River, pursuant to state law.
Other actions taken by council included unanimous approval of a revised Muskegon County Hazard Mitigation Plan and of an American Legion Poppy Day fundraiser to take place Friday, June 13.
The council also again fielded a presentation from Amber Marks, who is pitching the council on the creation of a community garden. Marks is seeking city approval for use of the former tennis courts adjacent to city hall, as well as its water spigot for watering the garden. Erin Wehr, the executive director
of a new nonprofit in the area, Servant Musician, registered her support for the venture, saying, "We believe the garden has the power to unite neighbors, create safe and nurturing spaces, and provide hands-on opportunities for healing and civic engagement."
The support from Wehr, Marks said, opens up new opportunities for funding through Wehr's experience in grant writing. She said she is pursuing a grant from Walmart, as well as other grants.
As for the garden, Marks hasn't finalized a layout yet, but said her favorite of a few proposed options would take up a 32 feet by 48 feet area - about half the tennis courts - and comprise 40 boxes, which would be raised slightly higher than ground level and would be protected by fencing. The total cost of that layout would be $3,664.81, which Marks hopes to secure through donations and grants.
The council did not take any action on the garden proposal, but appeared unanimous in their support of the idea in concept; it was noted the area is not currently being used in any way. Salter said he and the council would have to consult the city Department of Public Works and attorney Will Meier to ensure all potential issues are dealt with before issuing a formal approval. He further suggested that Marks and her partners consult with city clerk Brenda Bourdon and Meier about their garden plan.
Montague school board approves budget amendment
By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor
MONTAGUE — The Montague school board unanimously approved its second and final budget amendment for 2024-25 during its regular meeting Monday evening.
The amendment, said Montague finance director Stacey Brown, gave the school a slightly more favorable budget than originally projected, with revenues up some $786,000 while expenditures were up about $464,000 - much of the latter being matching money to receive grants. That pushed the fund balance as a percentage of expenditures to 14.8%, which is only slightly higher than the 11-14% window the state recommends.
The increased revenues, Brown said, were largely due to grants as well as a contract with Electric Forest to use school buses for transportation. Superintendent Jeff Johnson said the district will be teaming with Shelby District Schools to provide more buses as part of that deal.
Brown also noted work done this year with money from the sinking fund,
including HVAC repairs at Oehrli Elementary School and work done on air conditioning systems at the high school. The next major project, as discussed at prior meetings, is upgrading the fire suppression systems at each district building outside the Montague Area Childhood Center, which was not found to need upgrades. In the future, Brown said the district would have to look at the buildings' roofs and modernizing Oehrli's elevator.
Johnson said the district has been granted occupancy of the new gym, but some final items are still being addressed before it can be opened to the public. He also praised the work that has been done district-wide in his 10 years as superintendent, noting the improved place the budget is in since when he first took up the position.
The board unanimously approved the purchase of the Bookworms curriculum for English Language Arts instruction for elementary students at a cost of $79,270, which is being funded by a state literacy grant. Oehrli Elementary personnel presented and recommended Bookworms to the board at the April
Kids hit the road at Montague Bike Rodeo
Local kids came out in droves to participate in the Montague Police Department's bike rodeo Friday. Kids were able to ride bikes - their own or those provided for the event - through courses, learn about bike safety, and enter to win their own bike.
• Andy Roberts/Mirror Photos
meeting. The board discussed the use of multiple vendors to purchase the needed materials; principal Sandie Lundquist said buying some of the books from Barnes and Noble enabled a savings of about $60,000 and allowed the district to purchase all the curriculum materials rather than needing to choose among them.
The board also gave unanimous approval for a planned band and choir trip to Tennessee from May 21-24 of next year. The approval was made early to allow fundraising to begin for the trip, which will coincide, said Johnson, with a music festival at Dollywood amusement park. The early plan is for about 75 students to participate, along with two teachers and other chaperones.
The board - minus president Brent Raeth, who recused himself as he is a partner in the business - also unanimously approved a $1,500 payment to CatchMark Technologies to stream Montague High School's graduation ceremonies, which are set for Friday, May 16, on its community YouTube
page. The streaming has been done annually since 2020, when the COVID-19 pandemic led to the idea to stream the event. Johnson stated he hopes to integrate video and social media work similar to that done by CatchMark into high school classes in the future.
The meeting also included a presentation of Montague's Peer to Peer program by mentors Greta Auch, Amanda Cederquist, Charlotte Stuart and Jordyn Tolan. The quartet was not available to present their work, so teachers Melissa Treppa and Nick Thaler did so.
The four were mentors in the program this year, which pairs students with individualized education plans (IEPs) with other students in order to develop socialization skills and facilitate better learning opportunities for the mentees and provide one-on-one leadership skills and opportunities to the mentors. Each mentor delivered positive feedback about the friendships they formed with their mentees, and the district hopes to expand use of the program next school year.
Saturday, May 17
6th Annual Michillinda Vintage Vendor, Arts & Craft Show, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Wide variety of vendors and stunning lake views.
White Lake Congregational UCC hosts Feeding America mobile food pantry, 10-11 a.m. Registration begins at 8:30 a.m.; no ID required.
Free tours for Muskegon County residents @ Hackley & Hume Historic Site in Muskegon, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. No registration required.
Smitty Vision performs @ North Grove Brewers, 7 p.m.
Medicine Men perform @ Red Rooster Tavern, 8 p.m.
Sunday, May 18
Steve Thielman performs @ Book Nook & Java Shop, 10 a.m.
White Lake Ukulele Club meets @ Book Nook & Java Shop, 1 p.m. Penny Rushing teaches on stage.
Echoes of History: Ladies Cornet Band (Part 1) Community Calendar
By Barbara Bedau Brow Volunteer Contributor
The Ladies Cornet Band was established in spring 1886 by Prof. Christie. The first members of the band were: Mrs. Della VanKeuren, Mrs. G. J. Moog, Misses Josie LaVille, Mary Johnson, Cora Hinman, Grace Carpenter and Lillie Hanson.
Their first performance took place Saturday, June 12, 1886, at the Whitehall rink, where they furnished selections for skating. The session began at half past seven and closed at half past 10. The proceeds from the performance were to be used for the benefit of the ladies’ band. Admission for the evening was 25 cents for gentlemen and 10 cents for ladies, which included the use of skates.
Over time, several of the original members left and new members were to be added: Edie Kenfield, Hattie Kenfield, Mrs. George Moog’s son Jud, Stella DeMass, Mrs. Bennie Paine, and Mrs. Nielsen of Montague. Mrs. Moog became the director.
On July 4, 1888, the Ladies Band of Whitehall gained distinction for its appearance at Montague on the Fourth and established that it was the best ladies' organization of the kind in the state. The ladies stood the fatigue of the occasion like troopers, and the last notes from their instruments were as full as the first. The ladies' band furnished all the attractive music while the martial band munched peanuts and shot firecrackers in the air. They were also known to give evening ser-
enades and had quite a repertoire of music.
In April 1889, the Ladies Band contracted to travel with Sisson’s Concert Co. for the season. In the end, however, the deal between the Ladies Band and Sisson’s was called off. It appeared the company wanted the ladies to play in street parades and they objected. When the ladies paraded down the street, they wanted to do so in their own way and without the burden of a brass horn.
In early May 1889, the Ladies Cornet Band had an official group picture taken. At the time, there was no picture published in the paper or any names listed in the article. A copy of the picture did, however, appear in June 1957 with the ladies' names listed.
In July 1889, the Ladies Band played for the excursion of the Muskegon Maccabees to Reed’s Lake.
In early August, they played for the Chicago & West Michigan Railway Employees Excursion. Some 500 visitors came on trains and were transported on two lighters lashed together with a tug boat on each side. They were taken to Veal’s resort for the day.
At the end of August 1889, the Ladies Band, along with about 50 members of the N. H. Ferry Post GAR and about 75 civilians, took the steamer M.B. Covell to Milwaukee for an encampment.
In July 1890, it was reported in the local newspaper that the Ladies Band had reorganized and was holding rehearsals. There was no further mention of the Ladies Cornet Band after this an-
Monday, May 19
Dumber by the Beer trivia @ North Grove Brewers, 7 p.m.
Eric Michaels & Chris Kennedy perform @ Book Nook & Java Shop, 11:30 a.m.
Youth Open Studio @ ACWL-Nu-
veen Center, 3-5 p.m. Bring in projects you’re working on or start something new with help from staff.
DJ Trivia @ Jimmy'z Pub, 7 p.m.
Thursday, May 22
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.
nouncement.
The only other mention of the Ladies Band was in connection to an undated photo of the Fruitland Township Band, a men’s group which was organized around 1892. Names of the male members of the band were listed and it was pointed out the large drum in the picture was purchased from the Ladies Cornet Band when they disbanded.
With no other information about the band, here is a little history of the original members of the Ladies Cornet Band and those who followed:
Adella M. (nee Ruggles) VanKuren was born Jan. 18, 1851 in Mount Morris, New York, the daughter of Harlowe E. Ruggles (1812-1909) and Mariah
Etta Miller (1816-1890). She graduated from Whitehall High School. She married John VanKuren (1849-1929) Dec. 29, 1880 in Whitehall. They had no children. She died in Whitehall Dec. 10, 1928 and is buried in Oakhurst Cemetery.
Miriam E. (nee Streeter) Moog was born in 1848 in Frankfort, Herkimer, New York, the daughter of Herman Streeter and Maria Braman. She married George J. Moog in Whitehall. They had one son, Judson. George Moog was a furniture and hardware dealer as well as an undertaker and coroner. Miriam Moog died in Whitehall Jan. 22, 1899. She is buried in Oakhurst Cemetery.
Still time to register for Thursday's author visit
By Virginia DeMumbrum Volunteer Contributor
There are still a few seats available for the Erin Bartels author visit at 5:30 p.m. May 22, so reserve your spot today! Erin will be at the library to discuss her latest novel, The Lady with the Dark Hair. This fascinating book is about a woman struggling with grief, a mysterious painting, and hidden secrets of the art world. Art lovers and book lovers alike will enjoy this event, which will shine a light on female Impressionist painters.
and the Library of Michigan Foundation. The Friends of White Lake Community Library are contributing funding, and supplying light refreshments as well.
To register, call the library at 231894-9531 or visit wlclib.org/calendar.
The Library of Congress
Ms. Bartels’ presentation is part of the annual Michigan Notable Book Awards tour, which is funded in part by Michigan Humanities, The Center for the Book, the Library of Michigan,
In case recent headlines have you wondering about the Library of Congress, here’s a quick introduction to this national treasure. The Library of Congress is the largest library in the world and serves as the research arm of the U.S. Congress. It was founded in 1880 and houses millions of books in 470 languages, the largest rare book collection in North America, and the world’s largest collection of legal materials, films, maps, sheet music, and sound recordings. More than 10,000 items are added to the Library each working day.
The Library of Congress is also the home of the U.S. Copyright Office. In 2023, it responded to more than
681,000 reference requests from Congress, the public, and other federal agencies, and issued 441,500 copyright registrations.
While it primarily supports Congress, its vast collection is open to researchers, scholars, and the general public. Anyone 16 years or older can access the Library’s reading rooms and collections in Washington D.C. without charge or special permission, but individuals cannot borrow items to take home. There is a robust digital collection available online, however, and you can explore it today at loc. gov/collections!
FUN FACT: The smallest book in the Library of Congress is 1/25 of an inch by 1/25 of an inch, or about the size of the period at the end of this sentence. The largest book is 5 feet by 7 feet.
Memorial Day Weekend Parking Lot Maintenance
The library will be closed Monday, May 26, in observance of Memorial
Day, as you probably expected. What you might not have anticipated is that the parking lot will also be closed Sunday and Monday, the 25th and 26th, for sealing and striping. The outdoor book return will not be available those two days, but since we don’t charge overdue fees anymore, you can just bring your books back some other day at your convenience. Thanks for your patience as we perform this necessary task to maintain your library.
DeMumbrum
May 1889 – Members of the Ladies Cornet Band include, left to right, front row, Lillian (nee Rogers) Paine, Mary Johnson, Josie LaVille and Cora (nee Hinman) Jackson; second row, Edith “Edie” Kenfield, Adella (nee Ruggles) Van Kuren, Hattie (nee Kenfield) Brooks, Miriam Moog, her son Jud Moog, and Stella DuMass. • Courtesy Photo
NONPROFIT NEWS SOURCE community
Lake Mirror Lake Mirror
Montague locks up share of WMC Lakes title
'Cats split with Oakridge, can win title outright next week
By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor
MONTAGUE — Montague locked up at least a share of the West Michigan Conference Lakes Tuesday by defeating Oakridge 4-3 in the second game of a doubleheader.
Oakridge won the first game of the twinbill 12-3. The Wildcats (15-8, 9-1 WMC Lakes) can secure the league title outright by winning either of its next two games when Orchard View visits Tuesday.
All the runs of the second game were scored in the first inning before the pitchers dominated the rest of the way. The Wildcats got things rolling with consecutive walks, followed by an Oakridge error that brought in two runs. Fletcher Thommen had an RBI single in the next at-bat, and Kyle Earnest came across the plate on a pitch that got to the
backstop later in the inning.
Oakridge struck back with three runs, getting four hits after pitcher Eli Petersen retired the first two hitters.
However, that was the last time Petersen gave up a hit in what was otherwise a dominant performance. He didn't walk a batter and struck out nine, being charged with two earned runs. It was also his hard-hit ball that led to the error that brought in two runs for Montague.
The Wildcats were in command of game one for the first three innings before the Eagle bats exploded to life in the fourth, scoring three times. Oakridge added three more runs in the fifth and buried Montague with a six-run outburst in the seventh.
Petersen tripled in the first to score
Bryton Belinger and stake his team to an early lead. Ryver Jarka later laced a tworun home run to center field to briefly get Montague back into the game in the fifth inning, making the deficit 6-3. Jarka had two hits in the game.
Montague made four errors in the opener, leading to five unearned runs.
Montague drops potential district preview to Fremont
By
MONTAGUE — Montague may yet get a shot at a different result against old nemesis Fremont in a couple of weeks, but Wednesday night the Wildcats had to settle for a well-fought battle and a 3-1 defeat.
The two teams are looking at a thirdplace tie in the West Michigan Conference standings with one league game apiece left to play, but more importantly, the bracket sets up for them to potentially meet in the district finals May 30. If that came to pass, it would be a rematch of Fremont's overtime victory in last year's district title game.
"We've obviously got to take care of our business, but hopefully we'll get another crack at these guys on the 30th and have the score go the other way for us," Montague coach Chris Aebig said.
There's reason to hope it might for the Wildcats (10-8, 6-3 WMC), who
largely controlled play in the first half and generated more scoring chances than Fremont. They just weren't able to cash them in, and the Packers got two quick-strike goals within 90 seconds around the midpoint of the first half.
Montague didn't fade, though, and in fact immediately responded just 34 seconds after the second score when
Whitehall boys rack up 21st straight league title
Mulnix, Thompson,
Mendoza combine to set 4 finals meet records in win
By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor
Whitehall romped to its 21st consecutive boys track league championship last Thursday by dominating the West Michigan Conference Lakes finals at Ludington, setting four league meet records in the process. Whitehall racked up 161 points, nearly double that of second-place Fremont (93).
Mason Mulnix broke league meet records in both sprint events, earning times of 10.99 seconds in the 100-meter dash and 22.44 in the 200. Camden Thompson set a personal best in the 110-meter hurdles with his league finals record time of 14.83 seconds, and Ayden Mendoza set a new high jump record in the event with a leap of 6-4.
Mulnix also won the 400-meter dash with a time of 50.97 seconds, and his 1,600-meter relay team - along with Andon Palmer, Tyler Van Antwerp and Jevon Hilliard - finished third (3:40.2).
Thompson's hurdles record was one of three wins for him; he also won the 300 hurdles (40.99) and the discus (142-
11). Thompson took second behind Mendoza in high jump (5-10).
Also for the Viking boys, Stewart Waters won both long-distance events, with times of 4:37.8 in the 1,600 and 10:28.6 in the 3,200. Kal Koehler won the long jump at 20-4, and teammate Cole Essebaggers was third (19-1). In pole vault, Graysen Olstrom was second (12-6) and Keegan Frees was third (11-6). The
Vikings' 3,200 relay team of Waters, Van Antwerp, Hilliard and Palmer took second (8:46.8), and Corde Anderson was third in the 110 hurdles (15.07).
The Montague boys finished in sixth place. Devlin Dean provided the Wildcats' top finish, coming in second in long jump with a personal best mark of 19-6. Isaac French took third in shot put (43-11.5).
In the girls' finals, Montague finished in fourth place with Whitehall in fifth. Annelyse Schneider won two events for the Wildcats - the high jump (4-10) and
Montague's Jack Degen (4) races towards first base as Oakridge's Dylan Cunningham reels in a throw for an out during Tuesday's doubleheader at Montague. The Wildcats split the two games. • Andy Roberts/Mirror
Mulnix
Adilynn Peterson fired in a rebound of a Braylyn Bultema shot to get back to within 2-1. Twice before halftime, the Wildcats hit the crossbar with shots that otherwise would have scored. Mon-
tague had a couple of good chances in the second half, one shot narrow-
Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor
Montague's Cole Moss races home to score a run during Tuesday's doubleheader against Oakridge.
• Andy Roberts/Mirror
Soccer
Montague's Ava Pelton (13) tries to maneuver between Fremont foes Anna Norris (8) and Breven Powell during Tuesday's WMC game at Montague. The Wildcats lost the game, 3-1. • Andy Roberts/Mirror
Montague's Grace Reavey battles for a loose ball against Fremont's Mia Clemence during Tuesday's game at Montague.
• Andy Roberts/Mirror
Montague can't get much going against Oakridge
By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor
MONTAGUE — Montague lost both ends of a doubleheader to the always strong Oakridge Eagles Tuesday, 16-4 and 22-0.
Oakridge has won all six of its West Michigan Conference Lakes games to date by at least eight runs.
The Eagles got off to a very fast start on the day, scoring twice in the first inning and six times in the second. Montague (5-15, 0-8 WMC Lakes) was able to make some things happen at the plate later in the game, with Kayden Johnson collecting two hits, including a double, and scoring twice, plus a double by Jocelyn Rodriguez-Perez and two RBI by Reagan Cederquist. However, by then the Eagles had built up a huge lead and won by mercy rule. Cederquist allowed three earned runs - five Wildcat errors hurt her cause - on eight hits in
Montague shortstop Greta Auch is unable to corral a throw at second base as Oakridge's Gracie Willea pulls into second base during Tuesday's doubleheader at Montague. The Wildcats dropped both games. • Andy Roberts/Mirror
four innings of work. She struck out two.
There was no stopping Oakridge in game two as the visitors scored 13 runs in the first inning and nine
in the second to end the game in three innings by mercy rule. Greta Auch and Cederquist each got one hit. Arianna Mueller pitched one shutout inning.
R-P leads local teams with 3rd-place finish at home invite; Vikings 7th
By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor
Reeths-Puffer enjoyed its best 18-hole performance of the season Friday at its home invitational, earning third place with a team score of 327 - only four shots behind second-place Allendale.
Whitehall and Montague each also competed in the meet; the Vikings finished seventh with a 345, and Montague was 15th with a 393.
Kristian Brown paced the Rockets with a terrific effort, shooting a three-over par 75 to earn second place overall. Brown made par or better on 14 holes, scoring a birdie on the fifth hole, and didn't do worse than a bogey on any single
hole.
"Kristian Brown put a great round of golf together," R-P coach Matt Pallett said. "He has been close to doing so. He has worked hard and it was great to see that pay off."
Aiden Waggoner and Kye Grant tied for 10th place individually, each with an 81. Grant, like Brown, scored a birdie on the fifth hole, and the 81 marked his best-ever score. Waggoner made five birdies.
"I am extremely happy for Kye Grant," Pallett said. "He is a firstyear player as a senior. He worked hard to put himself in position to make the team. Today he put together his best round to date."
Ayden Hartzell shot a 90 to
Soccer defeat
ly missing the post and another where a misfired kick kept it off the scoreboard.
"I told them at halftime, 'The scoreboard doesn't reflect it, but you guys are controlling this game,'" Aebig said. "The word of the day for me is heart. These girls played with all heart today. They battled all the way to the end, and I couldn't keep them off the field.
"These guys have a ton of fight in them, and they don't give up. They don't quit. That's so encouraging. You can't really coach that. That's got to come from within."
Montague, Aebig said, is battling some injuries, and played with a very young lineup for much of the second half as the team tried to balance keeping players healthy with attempting to win the game. The subs were up to the task and largely played Fremont to a second-half standstill, though the Packers did add one more goal with 26:46 to go, Riley Chase's second of the night.
Montague now sets its attention
round out R-P scoring and made a birdie as well.
Brady Tate posted an 85 to lead the Vikings' squad, making two birdies along the way. Jones McDowell knocked in a birdie too, and shot an 86. Finn Novy and Braedon Bond each carded 87s, including one birdie by Novy.
Freshman Ethan Balon led the Wildcats with a 93 and made a birdie during his round. Brayden Bultema had a 98, Tanner Devries shot a 100 and Jonah Henderson had a 102.
The Rockets also fielded a B team, which finished 14th. Tristan Baker and Beckitt Johnson each shot a 91, including one birdie apiece. to lead the way.
• Andy Roberts/Mirror
on its regular-season finale against Shelby next week, to be followed by a pre-district showdown with Orchard View. Montague has already beaten the Cardinals, and a second win would send it on to a matchup with either Grant or Newaygo, both of which Montague easily defeated earlier this season as well.
Should it all work out, the 'Cats hope the third time will be the charm in a close game with the Packers.
"Fremont's a great team," Aebig said. "They're well-coached. We know we're going to get a good effort from them whenever we see them."
Sports in Brief
Baseball
Byron Center 6 Reeths-Puffer 1
Wiseman drove in the Rockets' only run as Byron Center completed a 3-game sweep of the teams' O-K Green series. Wiseman also pitched the game, allowing 3 earned runs on 6 hits.
North Muskegon 5-12
3-1
Traverse City West 11-5 Whitehall 1-2 Whitehall struggled at the plate, with only one hit in each game. Eli Winters had both RBI for the Vikings in game two, and Myles Welch allowed 2 earned runs. Justin Jensen had a hit in game one.
Manistee 2-1 Whitehall 1-4
Manistee overcame a good performance by Brock Morningstar in game one. The Viking senior allowed just one earned run and 5 hits in 5 2/3 innings. Evan Thomas got 3 hits. In game two, Thomas starred, throwing a one-hitter with 9 strikeouts and getting 2 hits, scoring a run to boot.
Jenison 2-13 Reeths-Puffer 0-2
R-P continued to struggle offensively in the sweep. Colton Bessinger had a strong outing in the opener, allowing only 5 hits and 2 runs, but R-P managed just 2 hits. The Rockets again had 2 hits in game two, with Jayden Wiseman's sacrifice fly driving in the only run.
Softball
Byron Center 1 Reeths-Puffer 0
lost another 8-inning thriller to the No. 5-ranked Bulldogs. Lainey McDaniel struck out 14 and allowed only 5 hits, and also got all 3 of the Rockets' hits at the plate. The run against her was unearned.
Whitehall 13-12 Spring Lake 6-5
The Vikings' bats were very effective in the sweep. Janie Fagan had 2 hits and 5 RBI in game one, and Annabel Kevwitch added 2 hits and 3 RBI. In gme two, Ryleigh Smith doubled twice and had 3 RBI, and Bella Fogus and Lianne Fgan each got 3 hits. Megan LeaTrea and Beth LeaTrea each earned a win in the circle on the day.
Montague 0-3 at Mona Shores tournament
The 'Cats lost games to Mona Shores (12-2), Fremont (9-1) and Marshall (19-1). Gentry Knop got 3 hits against Shores, and Shoshi Fouser drove in Montague's only run in the other 2 games.
Reeths-Puffer 1-1 at home tournament
Reeths-Puffer pulled away late for a 10-5 win over Oakridge. Kyleigh Bilek and Olivia Ambler each got 3 hits in the win, and Abbie Critchett hit a home run. The Rockets struggled in a 13-2 loss to No. 3 Hudsonville. Madi Reicherrt had an RBI single for one of the team's 5 hits. Whitehall 9-12 Shelby 7-1
Janie Fagan and Bella Fogus each got 2 hits in game one. Fagan had 3 RBI and Fogus scored 3 runs. Annabel Kevwitch had 2 extra-base hits and 4 RBI in game two, and Megan LeaTrea drove in 3 runs. LeaTrea also got the win in the circle in both games.
Jenison 1-2 Reeths-Puffer 0-4
Olivia Ambler got 2 hits in the second game, and Lainey McDaniel and Mady Snyder combined to get the win in the circle. In game one, McDaniel struck out 11 without a walk in a two-hitter. Kyleigh Bilek had R-P's only hit, and Tessa Ross drew 3 walks.
Fruitport 17 Montague 4
The visiting Trojans raced to a 7-0 lead and never let up. Hayden Boutell had a 2-run double, and Greta Auch and Reagan Cederquist each scored 2 runs. Cederquist allowed no earned runs in 2 2/3 innings. G.R. West Catholic 2 Whitehall 0
The Falcons scored both of the game's runs in the 6th inning. Megan LeaTrea scattered 10 hits and struck out 3. Janie Fagan had 2 hits.
Girls Soccer
Reeths-Puffer 3 Fruitport 1
Montague 3 Manistee 2 Allyson Balder scored 2 goals in under 30 seconds late in the game to deliver the Wildcats a win. Ava Pelton also got on the board for the 'Cats, who improved to 6-2 in WMC play.
Ravenna 7 Whitehall 2 Statistics had not been reported from the game at press time.
Reeths-Puffer 5 Jenison 3
The Rockets' Jaslynn Kops and Hanna Potts each scored 2 goals, and Wren Tryska also found the net. R-P outshot Jenison 16-7.
Girls Tennis
Whitehall 6 Grant 2
closed out the regular season with a win.
Reeths-Puffer 5th at conference tourney
Each R-P singles player - Olivia Smith, Hope Latsch, Molly Matz and Mylie Neel - won one match at the meet. No. 1 doubles pair Gabrielle Borgeson/Malania Eilers also won one match. Boys Golf
Reeths-Puffer leads local squads, takes 3rd at home
All 3 local teams competed, but the Rockets led the way, finishing only 4 strokes behind runner-up Allendale. Kristian Brown shot a 3-over par 75, taking 3rd place overall. Aiden Waggoner and Kye Grant each had an 81 to place in the top 10. Brady Tate led Whitehall with an 85 as the Vikes took 7th, and Ethan Balon was the Wildcats' top scorer, shooting a 93. Montague finished in 15th place.
Reeths-Puffer 2nd at Jenison Jamboree
The Rockets wee only 3 strokes behind winner Mona Shores. Kristian Brown led the team and tied for medalist honors, shooting a 2-over par 38. Aiden Waggoner had a 42, good for 7th place.
More Sports in Brief on page 6
Whitehall 0-2 at Forest Hills Eastern Tri
The Vikings were blanked by both Covenant Christian (4-0) and Forest Hills Eastern (8-0) in a tough day against quality opponents.
Whitehall
Grace McDowell, Izzy Gould and Riley Shafer each won a singles match, and Alivia DeWildt/Addie Broton and Ella Sumerix/Delaney Konecny won in doubles. The Vikings won one match by default.
Montague's Adilynn Peterson eyes the ball after getting past Fremont's Anna Norris during Tuesday's WMC game at Montague. The Packers won, 3-1.
Rockets finish 4th at regionals
By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor
Reeths-Puffer finished fourth in Wednesday's Division 1 regional tournament at Forest Hills Northern to end its season.
The Rockets scored 10 points, only one behind Mona Shores for third place.
R-P's doubles flights performed well, with three flights reaching the semifinals before bowing out to the
top seed. No. 2 pair Lauren Matz/Elana Weiden defeated Reese Wilcox/ Isabella Hoeksma of Ottawa Hills in a second-round match, 6-1, 6-3, to advance to the semis. At the No. 3 flight, Ava Dietz/Kaitlyn Darow took their second-round match over Anna Martin/Jocelyn DeLongpre of Northview, 6-1, 6-3. No. 4 doubles pair Jayla Brink/Makayla Smith defeated Lowell's Nadine
WMC track
the long jump (14-3.5). Amanda Cederquist was second in shot put (32-9) and in the 100 hurdles, earning a personal best time of 15.98 seconds. Addison Smith placed second in pole vault (8-0). The 'Cats also earned third-place finishes in three relays. Cadence Fox, Gabriella Dietz, Celina Pruitt and Smith ran in the 400 relay (56.91); Cederquist, Fox, Smith and Schneider were in the 800 relay (1:56.98), and Dietz, Fox, Pruitt and
Cozzio/Brooklyn Haywood, 6-0, 7-5, in a second-round match. Mylie Neel also reached the semifinals at the No. 4 singles flight. She beat Wyoming's Dayanara Alejo 6-1, 6-1 in a second-round match.
Olivia Smith and Molly Matz each picked up tough three-set first-round wins at No. 1 and No. 3 singles respectively before falling in the second round.
Track
Lacrosse
Schneider was the lineup in the 1,600 relay (4:41.96).
Cami Kraai took home the Viking girls' lone win, finishing the 800 in 2:24.0. Teammate Adalyn Britton was third (2:30.4). Evelyn Darke placed third in discus (79-7) and in shot put (32-6), and Lexi Poulin was third in high jump (4-8). The 3,200 relay team of Britton, Kraai, Ella Nicholson and Kassidy Parmley took second (11:42.4).
Cohen Beck's school record 9 goals propel R-P to 1st-round win
Cohen Beck's school record scoring performance was the difference for Reeths-Puffer lacrosse in Wednesday's regional play-in game, defeating Coopersville 16-12 to advance to the regional quarterfinal.
Beck poured in nine goals, which according to the Rockets' athletic website is a first in program history. It also
spearheaded R-P's best offensive performance of the year at the perfect time.
The Rockets (4-13) now advance to face the regional's top seed, Forest Hills Northern, Friday on the road.
Ian Wright was also key to R-P's efforts and put in four goals. Owen Greiner had a team-best four assists.
White River Rock Club hosting tailgate event at Artisan Market
The White River Rock, Gem and Mineral Club is hosting its annual Rocks on the Green tailgate Saturday, May 17 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. as part of the Montague Artisan Market's opening day. The market is located opposite the Montague Farmer's Market.
The tailgate will include geodes, a demonstration of stone faceting, rock painting, rock creations, a giveaway and more.
The White River Rock, Gem and Mineral Club will host its annual Rocks on the Green tailgate Saturday, May 17.
• Courtesy Photo
White River Twp. approves rise in zoning review fees
By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor
MONTAGUE — White River Township's board unanimously approved a bump in its zoning site review fees during its regular meeting Tuesday, raising them to more closely match what is charged by nearby municipalities.
The fees are charged as part of an overall construction permit cost. The township had previously been charging a $30 fee for the permit, $70 per square foot for the project, and no one-time administrative fee. To line up with what others, particularly Montague Township, are charging, the board agreed to raise the site review fee to $75, the persquare-foot fee to $85 and to enact an administrative fee of $30.
The board also unanimously approved using $450 of its senior millage allocation to offer two $5 vouchers to the Montague Farmer's Market for each senior household in the township for both summer and fall seasons, beginning May 27. The vouchers will be first-come, first-serve.
The mystery of the American flags that were placed at veterans' gravesites, which the board discussed at its April meeting, was not solved, but the immediate future of the flag-placing was determined. Jerry Doran of the White Lake VFW post reached out to the township since that meeting and offered to make sure the organization takes care of the flag placements at cemeteries for this year. The township intends to take up the job in 2026.
The board continued discussions about its recently enacted short-term rental ordinance. There is an issue with STRs that are located on shared driveways or private roads, some of which technically are violating the ordinance right now because the roads are not equipped for fire trucks to reach them.
The board did not take any action on the matter Tuesday, but suggested possible middle ground solutions for the properties in question, such as requiring road improvements be made or insurance policies to be taken out on the properties to account for the lack of access for emergency personnel. The issue will be further addressed later.
There will be a change to the board desks for the next meeting as deputy clerk Patti Sargent tendered her resignation, effective June 1. Sargent has been in the deputy clerk position since the 2024 election to aid Julie Goericke in her transition to the clerk role. Everyone agreed Goericke is doing well, and Sargent will step down after six years as clerk and six months as deputy clerk.
The board unanimously approved a $296 expenditure to purchase updated Michigan Building Code books. The township had been using 2015 code books, but new codes took effect in April, necessitating the purchase.
Two upcoming public hearings were mentioned. Lakeside Solar, which previously had scheduled an April 17 open house-style meeting to present a proposed solar project to the community and satisfy requirements in Public Act 233, has rescheduled the meeting for July 17 from 5-7 p.m. All township residents are encouraged to attend. Also, a public hearing is set for Tuesday, May 27 at 6 p.m. on Zoom that will allow the public to get more information regarding a Chemours proposal to the state Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy (EGLE) to dredge the lime deposits in Mirror Lake.
The White Lake fireworks committee has, reported treasurer Mary Kriesel, collected $15,500 of the needed $20,000 for the July 4 fireworks show as of their last meeting in April. She said she expects they have collected more since that meeting.
Montague Farmer's Market offers Double Up program
As farmer's market season kicks off in May 2025, the Montague Farmer's Market reminds local residents of its participation in the Double Up Food Bucks program, administered by Fair Food Network. The Montague Farmer's Market joins more than 230 other locations across Michigan participating in Double Up – making fresh, Michigan-grown fruits and vegetables more within reach of families using SNAP benefits (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, formerly known as food stamps).
Double Up Food Bucks is designed to incentivize the purchase of fresh fruits and vegetables for individuals and families using SNAP benefits. By using their Michigan Bridge/EBT cards at participating farmer's markets like the Montague Farmer's Market, SNAP recipients can increase their purchasing power, receiving a dollar-for-dollar match on fresh fruit and vegetable purchases, up to $20 per day.
To participate in the Double Up Food Bucks program, visitors to the Montague Farmer's Market simply need to visit the market manager or information booth to learn more about how the program works and get started. Additionally, individuals can find more information about Double Up Food Bucks and find participating markets, farm stands, and grocery
stores by visiting DoubleUpFoodBucks.org.
Michigan Bridge/EBT and Double Up Food Bucks tokens for the Montague Farmer's Market are available during regular business hours at Montague City Hall, 8778 Ferry Street, and at the market on Saturdays. The Montague Farmers Market is open Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., May 10-October 25, at 4511 Church Street in Montague.
In addition to offering Double Up Food Bucks, the Montague Farmer's Market offers Senior Market Vouchers supporting healthier food access for senior residents of participating municipalities. Senior residents age 62 and up who live within the City of Montague, White River Township, and Fruitland Township are eligible for the Senior Market Vouchers.
City of Montague Senior Market Vouchers will be available to residents at the Montague Farmers Market starting July 5. The vouchers will not be available at Montague City Hall but will be issued on the first market Saturday of each month, starting in July, from the farmer's market cottage. Remember to bring your ID to obtain the vouchers. White River Township and Fruitland Township will distribute vouchers to their senior residents.
Smart buoy
temperature, but also dissolved oxygen - an important measure for vegetation and fish in the water - and what DeBoer called "total algae."
"(That) is probably the most important in terms of health or water quality," DeBoer said. "That's a combination of chlorophyll, which folks probably know (about) from plant life needing chlorophyll to survive, and then phycocyanin, which is a particular measure of how toxic or how dangerous that algae might be.
"As some folks know, just because you see vegetation, or weed growth, it isn't necessarily a bad thing. If it's a native species and it's not overpowering and it hasn't become toxic, it's not a problem, This phycocyanin gives an extra parameter to say, 'This is something that we might need to worry about.'"
The buoy is being launched with a large attachment to keep it comfortably above water, with a ballast weight and chains that will keep it in its intended spot. Due to its construction - high-density polyethylene plastic - it will easily be able to take glancing blows should it collide with a boat. Barring electronic malfunctions that are always possible with instruments like those, DeBoer said, the buoy should be able to last without interruption until whenever the solar panels need to be replaced, which is likely some 10-15 years away. (The buoy will be stored on land during winter months to prevent wear and tear.)
The WLA is excited for the possibilities the buoy represents as far as taking care of the lake as well as potential educational opportunities. The buoy has currently unused data ports that could expand the types and amount of data it could collect in the future, depending on local interest and, of course, funding.
"(We have) the opportunity to be an outreach point for schools, teachers, students tapping into this data in real time," DeBoer said. "We could have projects, potentially, looking at the data, learning how to understand graphs, plots of data, what we do with that information."
The WLA will continue to do its own monitoring of the lake and is working on other summer projects, said board president Robert Smart. Work is being done to develop an app that would use machine learning to identify if invasive plant species are congregating underwater, and the organization is also planning to take photos of the shoreline throughout the summer to monitor changes.
The group is always seeking new members, with membership being fairly inexpensive, DeBoer said - $35 per year, or $50 to also receive the Riparian magazine published by the Michigan Lakes and Streams Association.
"Being part of the association, you learn the basics of what might look funny (or that it doesn't belong), and it just makes everyone more educated," DeBoer said.
Dirt Dauber club hosting annual auction Tuesday
The Dirt Dauber Garden Club will host its Annual Plant Auction Tuesday, May 20 at 6 p.m. at the White Lake United Methodist Church at 8555 Cook St. Montague. The auction is the Dirt Dauber Club's biggest fundraiser each year.
Many of the available plants come from members' own gardens. Plants that need dividing, or have sprouted volunteers that will become its own plant, are included. Plants from the community gardens that the Dirt Daubers maintain in Montague and Whitehall are available. Members also grow a variety of different plants, including house plants, just for the auction. The club also receives donations from area residents of interesting plants, trees, and garden items.
Auctioneer Jeff King has conducted the auction for years with his wife Jolene, who is a Master Gardener and club member. This year, their daughters, Julianna and Jentry, will be conducting the auction with Jeff’s supervision. Julianna is a Master Gardener and Jentry a certified nursery and landscape design professional. Both oversee operations for Weesies Brothers.
The club is a nonprofit 501(c)3 organization, and uses its funds to add beauty to the White Lake area, including both the cities of Whitehall and Montague, as well as the White River Light Station. Payment can be made by cash, check or Venmo.
For more information, see the club's Facebook page at fb.com/dirtdaubergc or email dirtdaubergc@gmail.com.
Police activity this week
Behind the Badge
Whitehall Police Report
May 7
A resident of the 900 block of Colby St. called Whitehall police after her daughter refused to return the car she borrowed from the caller. The officer responding to the 7:39 a.m. call explained it was not a criminal matter, but assisted by transporting the caller to her daughter’s residence to recover the car.
At 7:49 a.m. a mother reported her 9-year-old as a runaway. The girl left the house in the 100 block of Main St. with no shoes. The responding officer, using the description provided, located the girl in the 200 block of Market St. The child was returned home. Whitehall Police were called to the
Hope Squad
Alecia Hughes was one of the teachers who was immediately interested and invested in the program.
“I teach art, so it’s definitely a very different part of my day, which is nice to switch it up,” said Hughes. “It’s been really great working with a different set of kids than I normally would. It’s really cool seeing them get passionate about it, because that’s not a side of them that we get to see often. I’ve learned a lot myself since I’m not a counselor.”
Both administrators said they’ve seen a different side of students, who get passionate about helping their community and peers.
“I really enjoy the experience,” Bernardi said. “I’m a mental health counsel-
middle school at 8:19 a.m. after a student was caught with alcohol and a vape device. The principal received a tip from the high school that the student had been drinking “Jack” and vaping on the bus. When brought into the office, a metal detector was used to locate the vape and after questioning by the principal, the 13-year-old led him to a waste dispenser where he tossed the now empty “Mineral Water” bottle he had on the bus. Using the passive mode on a PBT, the bottle was confirmed to contain alcohol. The student was cited and turned over to his father.
May 9
A student and resident of Whitehall reported cash was stolen from their vehicle and possibly at the high school. The victim contacted the SRO at 2:07 p.m. and told him she had gotten $100 cash from the ATM the night before and left it in plain sight in her unlocked car. When she returned to the car after school, the money was missing. Later, when the investigator contacted the victim to begin a review of the school cameras, he learned the caller had found the money and it wasn’t stolen.
A Rothbury woman was arrested for OWI after crashing with two vehicles on Colby Street near Mears Avenue. An on-duty officer was observing traffic
continued from page 1
or, so this is a really different experience than counseling. It’s the other side of it. It’s the teaching and prevention. It’s exciting to be able to work with a group of students and get them excited about mental health and encourage them to ask, ‘How can we help? How can we do things not only for this building, but for the whole community?’ It’s empowering. I think youth are a lot more vocal about things and get excited about things, and have really great ideas. For me, it’s been really fun to see the flip side of what I do on a daily basis.”
Both Bernardi and Hughes said they have seen a major positive difference in the discussion of mental health at the school.
in the 700 block of Colby at 10:44 p.m. and saw a westbound truck speeding toward downtown. The officer began to follow and catch up to the car but just west of Mears, the truck used the parking lane in an attempt to pass another westbound vehicle. They struck mirrors. After moving back into the main travel lane, the driver rear-ended a second car. The 56-year-old failed multiple sobriety tests and was arrested for OWI. She was later transported to the Muskegon County jail where a blood sample was collected and she was subsequently lodged for the night.
May 10
An off-field dispute led to call for police to umpire the situation. At 10:11 a.m. the caller spoke with the officer and explained while at the baseball game to watch her son, her ex-husband’s new girlfriend was there. According to the woman, the girlfriend was calling her vulgar names. Even as the officer was talking with the women, they continued to exchange insults. After getting both sides of the story, there was no assault involved. The officer suggested they do their best to avoid each other and not speak to each other. No further action was taken.
At 9:35 p.m. Whitehall Police were dispatched to assist on a medical call
“I get a lot more kids coming up to me, asking questions about mental health in general and what the stigma is,” said Hughes. “That gives the kids and me a chance to answer questions from their peers, them being out there, visibly doing things like this makes that conversation happen naturally. I see mental health being talked about more.”
Bernardi credits the students for their creative ideas on how to promote awareness and spread positivity not only throughout the school, but through the entire community of Montague. “It’s definitely broken down barriers,” Bernardi said. “It’s identified a lot of strengths in the community and it’s also helped identify areas of need, which to me was kind of surprising. Realizing that this is something we can improve on. The kids are really great at problem solving. Them realizing some things would be really helpful. In just doing work around mental
in the 1200 block of Lake St. A customer there had fallen and was injured. The victim’s husband, who appeared to be intoxicated, became agitated with the medical personnel attending to her care and began to yell and swear. Staff at the business then requested the officer to inform the man that he would not be welcome back at the club. The man then became upset with the officer and was finally escorted out and driven home by friends.
May 11
Whitehall Police were called to the 400 block of Muskegon Ave. on a family dispute. The caller was not on scene but contacted police when his ex-girlfriend, who still lives at the residence, unplugged the home video system. The officer spoke with the ex-girlfriend at 2:02 p.m., who said the child they have in common had run away and she wanted help in getting him home. After the man failed to answer texts, she unplugged the video system, knowing that would get his attention. After the caller arrived at the residence, he further explained there was an argument earlier over letting the child go for a walk. Neither wanted to leave but agreed to avoid each other until they had calmed down. No further action was taken.
health, they’ve been able to get out there and talk about it, but then say ‘we need more, we need something to fill this gap.’ Then they create it, they talk with admin about it. They are really great advocates for themselves and the student body.”
Miller and Hall are both proud of the work they have done for the school, in both Hope Squad’s big projects and the small things that are encouraged daily.
“It’s super community based, getting down to the gritty part of mental health and ending the stigma around it,” said Miller. “It’s super important not just for teenagers, but it brings the whole community into the loop and connects everybody, encourages loving everybody. “It’s the little things that make it better. It can be a simple compliment that brightens your day. Even though something bad might have happened that day, you had this little good thing that makes it a little bit better.”
Illusionist Taylor Hughes coming to Playhouse June 1
Los Angeles-based illusionist and performer Taylor Hughes will highlight a fundraiser at The Playhouse at White Lake Sunday, June 1 at 7:30 p.m.
The Playhouse said in a press release that Hughes began his journey in magic when he received a kit for his seventh birthday. He's cultivated a signature style in his 30-plus years since, having performed over 3,000 shows. He has
two comedy/magic specials available to view online - Enjoy the Ride on YouTube (rent or purchase) and Chasing Wonder on Amazon Prime.
Tickets to the Taylor Hughes show are $25 in advance and $30 at the door and may be purchased at Whitehall City Hall during normal business hours.
Also coming up soon at the Playhouse, singing and acting auditions
will take place May 19-20 from 6-9 p.m. for Bon Appetit: A Delicious Cabaret, a show that will take place from Aug. 1113. Auditions are open to adults and students alike, provided they fill out an application on the Playhouse website, theplayhouseatwhitelake.org. A youth audition workshop (ages 10-16) will take place from 5-6 p.m. May 19. Cost is $5 to participate in the workshop.
The Michigan Mandolin Orchestra (MMO), a statewide orchestra based in Grand Rapids with conductor Brian Oberlin, will perform Saturday, May 17. Tickets are $20 in advance and $25 the day of the show, Saturday, May 17, at 7:30 p.m.
