INSIDE
Volume 3, Issue 10 August 1, 2025 Total Raised: $62,690 Lead this Legacy
: Voters to determine library millage renewal
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PRSRT STANDARD NON PROFIT U.S. POSTAGE
rier or a substitute and how many parcels need to be The Oceana Echo Community Correspondent delivered. Post offices vary in size and services according to Our postal carriers are an essential part of the the population served. An team who work faithfully to Actual Post Office (ACO) bring local news from our is large enough to employ Echo staff to you, and Echo the administrative services Publishing is extremely of a postmaster, while a Remotely Managed Post grateful for their service. Many have probably Office (RMPO) is under the heard some version of the direction of a postmaster in phrase "The mail must go a nearby ACO. Oceana County has through," and though it is not an official motto of the four ACOs which are locatPony Express or the United ed in Pentwater, Hart, ShelStates Postal Service, it is by and Hesperia, and are in still very well known. Con- the smallest size category versely, an inscription on of ACO possible. Each has a the New York City General postmaster, full-time winPost Office reads, "Neither dow service by one or more snow nor rain nor heat clerks and provides delivnor gloom of night stays ery to neighboring comthese couriers from the munities. On the border swift completion of their of Oceana and Newaygo appointed rounds." With a counties, Hesperia delivlong history, this quote is ers in both counties. The from Herodotus, a Greek remaining post offices in historian, referring to the the county are RMPOs and are located in Mears, WalkPersian postal system. Today in Oceana Coun- erville, Rothbury and New ty, few of us receive our mail Era. They offer window serby couriers on foot. Many vices with clerks who may residents collect their mail be full-time or part-time. from a post office box and The Oceana Echo is delivthe post office becomes ered every week to all these a community hub where small and larger post officnews about local residents es in addition to offices in is heard and shared. More Montague. Outside of inclement of us have our mail delivered by a postal worker in weather and poor road a car or truck and the de- conditions, our local postal livery time depends on the workers face challenges beday of the week, whether hind the scenes that loom the driver is the regular car- larger. Recently, Pentwater carriers were instructed not to deliver mail to residents on Chester Street for a few days when the road was being reconstructed after installation of the new water line. Pentwater, Hart and Shelby postal workers shared their particular obstacles to efficient service. Pentwater Postmaster Chris Roberts explained, “Without a doubt, my big-
CELEBRATING OUR LOCAL POSTAL WORKERS gest challenge is staffing. There are many regulations that determine how, when, and how many people I can hire. Employees must always start part-time, there are rules governing substitutes, and it is illegal to use volunteers. The demand for services varies tremendously between summer and winter, but I cannot hire seasonal employees. In the winter we have 525 active post office boxes, and our carriers deliver mail to 1,600 addresses. In the summer we have 700 active post office boxes, and our carriers deliver mail to 3,500 addresses. We have three delivery routes managed by two full-time and one auxiliary carrier. One driver has a route with 800 addresses; it is considered an ‘overburdened route.’” He continued, “Based on our number of customers, we could have seven employees. But we have only four. The size of our trucks is inadequate to handle the quantity of large parcels mailed by Amazon. It is not uncommon for our carriers to make two or three trips to the office daily to restock their trucks with more of the day’s mail. The average number of parcels our carriers deliver is about 435 . But on Saturday, July 5, we had 930 parcels that had to be delivered. It would be very helpful to have larger trucks.” Mail is heaviest on Mondays and around the holidays, but it can also be larger on Fridays and
RESIDENTIAL POSTAL CUSTOMER ECRWSS
Chris Roberts Saturdays. Postal workers in Oceana regularly offer help to one another. Clerks will travel from their own assigned post to work in other offices when illness or other reasons leave a neighboring office window unattended. Roberts is a 21-year veteran of postal work and has training as both a carrier and a clerk. He was appointed as Pentwater's postmaster three years ago. In addition to administrative duties, he works the window, sorts the mail and delivers the mail, particularly parcels, to complete carrier routes. He reports that the carriers often work long days, well past the supper hour, and have occasionally delivered parcels on Sundays to manage the workload. Regarding The Oceana Echo, Roberts reports, “Everybody loves the Echo. If they don’t receive it on Friday, or don’t see it on the counter, they ask for it. They especially fly out of here in the summer, when we have run out of them a few times.” What Roberts wanted to emphatically communicate to all Pentwater postal customers was, “Our carriers do care – they REALLY do. They bend over backwards, even working on their days off, to get mail delivered to their
customers.” They truly are everyday heroes. Larry Rasmussen has worked at the Hart post office for 31 years, serving as a carrier on city and rural routes and as a clerk. “The Hart post office administers mail service for the communities of Hart, Mears and Walkerville. The Hart facility has 400 boxes for Hart and 150 boxes for Mears and sends mail for another 100 boxes to the Walkerville office," Rasmussen explained. "There is a total of 10 carrier routes for the three communities and close to 4,000 delivery addresses on those routes.” When asked about current challenges, he didn’t have to think twice before replying, “Our biggest challenge is Amazon. Their parcels have expanded our workload tremendously.” Gone are the days when postal carriers managed their load of envelope deliveries in a bag they shouldered until it was empty. When something was too big for a resident’s mailbox or mail slot, they got a note instructing them where they could go to pick it up. Today the carriers deliver to a resident’s door whatever will not fit in their mailbox. Administering the services in Hart is their Postmaster Chad Barnaby, who has been there for four
years. Shelby’s post office recently welcomed new Postmaster Candice Giddings, who moved there from a post in Muskegon. Roxanne Van Laan has been a postal worker in Shelby for over 25 years and is a few months from retirement. She recently recounted their biggest challenges as issues with their phone service and Amazon. “Our back door for deliveries is too small to allow the large Amazon shipping crates to fit through it. Each crate needs to be broken down to bring the parcels into the office...It’s a lot of work and we have had as many as 12 crates of parcels crowding our space at one time. Our building is old and too small for handling the work. The mail for Rothbury and New Era as well as for Shelby comes through this space.” The idiom “Walk a mile in someone’s shoes” suggests that empathy and understanding grow when one sees or experiences what another person faces. Spending an hour with a postal worker, whether walking or driving or sitting with a window clerk, is an eyeopener to the challenges they face and gives one an appreciation for the “everyday heroes” that they are.
Last chance to share your Oceana County Fair memories! Last chance! The Oceana County Fair will soon be here, and with it comes the Oceana Echo’s 3rd Annual Fair Special Section. As in the past, we are inviting our readers to contribute their personal memories of the Oceana County Fair. Whether it is a favorite food, a favorite ride or a favorite event - tell us about it! Perhaps you made special memories with a special someone. Maybe you are old enough to remember “back in the old days." All memories are welcomed and appreciated. Please email sharon@oceanaecho.com by Monday, August 4, 2025 to be included this year!
EVENINGS WITH THE ECHO HART PHOTO CONTEST WINNER
Clair Purdy
• AnnaMae Bush/Echo
2 AUGUST 1, 2025 THE OCEANA ECHO
Public comment sparks questions on building inspection policy for Board of Commissioners By Brendan Samuels finished. To be able to changed a huge num-
5th Annual Agriscience Everywhere Camp provides hands-on learning The fifth Annual Agriscience Everywhere Camp, held July 5-8 challenged and enlightened 18 5th-8th grade students from Oceana and Mason Counties in a three-day hands-on learning and real-world agriculture experience. “This camp truly brought agriscience to life!” said camp instructor and Pentwater Public School science teacher Erika Fatura. Some of the activities students participated in included: • A marble maze STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) challenge • Tour of the MSU Research Station with manager Ashley Fleser • A fascinating presentation on bees by Randy Slikkers of Humble Bee-ginnings • A behind-the-scenes look at Gourmet Mushroom Inc. in Scottville with Trevor Page and Jeremy Radvansky • A visit to local agritourism attraction, Up North Farm Market • Practice flying drones with Noah Dodson, Rob Alway, Tasha Smith and Jeff Kiessel to learn more about how
this exciting technology is now being used in agriculture • Conducting a tasty science lab making their own ice cream • A visit to the Ag Science CTE program at West Shore Community College with Mark Willis, where they explored pond ecology, tried fishing, visited the animals and planted beans • And put all their teamwork and knowledge to the test with review “breakout boxes” “I’d like to thank the West Michigan/MSU Research Station for hosting us, our amazing driver Cal Miller, who doubled as a field trip helper, Shelby Hughes, who worked tirelessly behind the scenes and secured funding through the West Shore CTE Program and of course, the parents—your kids were fantastic, respectful, and truly a joy to work with," Fatura concluded. "We’re proud of what this camp offers—real, hands-on connections to the world of agriscience. There’s something special about watching kids unplug, explore nature and discover where their food comes from while learning lifelong skills.”
Get ready for school with TLC's 'Backpack Blowout'
stick to a schedule, I The Oceana Echo Community Correspondent have to have the ability to schedule inspections HART – During a rou- well in advance.” There was some contine meeting for Oceana County’s Board of fusion among the comCommissioners Thurs- missioners, as Commisday, July 24, concerned sioners Craig Hardy and community members Tim Beggs raised quesbrought to light a possi- tions about when the ble problem regarding changes to inspection occurred. scheduling building in- scheduling spections. The meeting County Administrator was chaired by Commis- Tracy Byard read from sioner Paul Erickson, the inspection contract in the absence of Board language that inspections must be completChair Robert Walker. Scott Stovall of Shel- ed within 72 hours of the by raised concerns request. During the reguabout changes in the county building de- lar meeting, an official partment during public discussion on the matcomment of the Prop- ter was added to the erties, Environment agenda. The result of and Economic Devel- that conversation was a opment meeting. Stovall motion approved unaninformed the board of imously by Commiscommissioners that sioner Beggs to clarify the current avenue for language on building, scheduling inspections plumbing, electrical and inspections, was causing “head- heating aches” for his business, allowing those inspections to be made in adStovall Construction. Stovall spoke on the vance, but completed inability to schedule in- within 72 hours of the spections on housing requested date. Susan Sniegowski, a construction projects, noting that his company judge for the 51st Circuit is currently relying on Court, presented infora “lottery-type system.” mation in the Finance Administration Stovall, along with Rich- and meeting, further clarifyard Raffaelli, urged the ing bond standards for board of commissioners the state of Michigan. to reconsider. “In 2020, there was “A typical house has three plumbing inspec- a comprehensive bitions, three electrical in- partisan legislature that spections, three heating inspections and three building inspections,” Stovall said. “That’s 12 inspections per home Open for that project to be 8-6 M-Sat.
Get a head start on what your students will need for the 2025/2026 school season! Parents with students of all grade levels are invited to attend Trinity Lutheran Church’s (TLC) traditional “Backpack Blowout” on Tuesday, Aug. 12. The event takes place from 6-7 p.m. and offers free backpacks stuffed with age-appropriate school supplies that are provided by TLC’s WHO (Women Helping Others) group. In addition, attendees will enjoy a free walking taco dinner, games for all ages, raffles with prizes, books for children, various children’s activities and so much more. All are welcome. TLC simply requires that students be present with parents to select their free backpacks. Trinity Lutheran Church is located one mile west of the New Era expressway exit on Stony Lake Road. For additional information about the Backpack Blowout and TLC, call 231-861-4059 Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to noon, or visit their website: www.tlcnewera.org. Dan OVER 40 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE
WEARE TOWNSHIP
TRUTH IN TAXATION MEETING NOTICE
Weare Township will hold a Truth in Taxation meeting at 6:30 p.m. at the Weare Township Hall, 6506 N. Oceana Dr. Hart, MI 49420, before its regular meeting on Monday, August 11, 2025 at 7 p.m.
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ber of bond rules,” Sniegowski said. “It puts a lot of limits on what the courts can do. There is a presumption in Michigan of no cash bond for every case. The only time the law allows us to hold somebody on bond is with a homicide case or a violent felony.” Sniegowski’s comments helped clarify questions posed by Oceana County Sheriff Craig Mast on personal recognizance bonds at a prior meeting. The Board also took action on several agenda items during the regular meeting. Vaughn White of Valley City Metals was appointed to the Materials Management Committee to replace Jim Kleiner, with a term set to expire on Dec. 31, 2029. Monte Barley was unanimously appointed to the Construction Board of Appeals for a six-year term. A motion to allow the transfer of $57,673 in Michigan Department of Transportation grant funding to the Ionia Airport due to a funding lapse originally designated for the Oceana County Airport was also carried. The commissioners also approved the Child Care Fund Budget to be submitted to the State of Michigan.
(231) 861-2103 163 N. Michigan Ave., Shelby
Claybanks Township will hold a Truth in Taxation meeting at 7:00 pm at the Claybanks Methodist Church before its regular meeting on Monday August 11, 2025 at 7:30 pm.
THE OCEANA ECHO AUGUST 1, 2025 3
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4 AUGUST 1, 2025 THE OCEANA ECHO Visit us!
This page is brought to you by:
The Oceana County Historical & Genealogical Society is open Wednesdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Private tours are available by appointment.
114 Dryden St. in Hart, Mich. 49420 (231) 873-2600
oceanahistory.org
Mouth Cemetery is a testament to White River history By Claire Marshall The Oceana Echo Community Columnist I got lost on my research visit to Mouth Cemetery. In my defense, Google Maps had two separate destination points that led down two separate roads. I eventually found my way, and I’d like to extend some gratitude to the folks walking their dogs who were kind enough to point me in the right direction. It’s no wonder that I got lost, though, Mouth Cemetery is perched in the woods overlooking the bayou where White River meets the lake the eponymous mouth. As my dog walkers explained, it's at the end of a hidden two-track that separates off from a dirt road. It's difficult to tell where your traveling turns into trespassing. Compared to other historical and infamous cemeteries, it’s small, and only about 300 headstones peek through the carpet of moss and fern. Mouth Cemetery is a place of in-betweens. It’s both secluded and surrounded. Through the trees I could see into several backyards, yet I was the only visitor. It was tranquil until the rustling of wildlife became impossible to ignore and a telephone rang from a nearby house. At one point, it felt old and forgotten, yet new flags and shiny coins decorated headstones, some of which list death dates in the 2020s. It felt like I was the only living creature there, and then I walked into a cloud of gnats. The oldest marked graves are from 1851: Sarah Jane Beatrice, Sarah S. Lewis and Christian Merke - none of which have birth dates. There are several headstones without any dates listed, rendering their age unknown.
Some physical evidence beyond graves which help to date Mouth Cemetery are records of deeds and plats from 1850, showing the graveyard already established at its current location. Mouth Cemetery served the community across the river, a “bustling” logging community by the 1840s which went by several different names: White Haven, Mouth, White River Village. It was also a significant inhabitance for Indigenous communities for centuries prior. If you spend enough time in historic graveyards, you’ll notice a pattern. If a cemetery is not already attached to a churchyard, it will be located on a high point in or just outside of town, many times perched over a body of water, such as a lake or river. So it’s no surprise this location was where early settlers chose to bury White River Village’s dead. Some sources say that burials were taking place as early as the 1830s in Mouth Cemetery. Sadly, many of the oldest grave markers were wooden crosses and have since decayed into nothingness. This fate is unsurprising, as a number of granite and marble headstones are crumbling or removed from their original placement, left to lean up against the wrought-iron fence or pine trees. While it is unknown exactly how old Mouth Cemetery is, what’s certain is its recognition as the oldest cemetery in Muskegon County. As with any historic cemetery, there are guides to graves of the notable dead. One significant grouping of such is a fenced-in family plot located at the edge of the cemetery, before the landscape drops dramatically down into the bayou. The patriarch of this family plot is Captain William Robinson II, originally from England.
He emigrated with his wife and six other relatives to the U.S. in 1854, eventually settling in the White Lake area. A little more than a decade later, his son, Captain William Robinson III, and his family would join the rest of the Robinsons in the Muskegon area. Local historians may recognize William Robinson III, as he famously served as the White River Light Station’s first keeper in 1875. Robinson senior’s headstone is a remarkable sight, stark white and decorated with illusory drapery and a carved anchor. An epitaph at the bottom speaks of Robinson’s decades at sea and paints a picture of an adventurous and grandiose man. His son’s is a simpler grave, about half the height and without decoration or an epitaph. The lightkeeper’s wife, Sarah Cooper Robinson, has a tall, architectural headstone, with an epigraph wishing farewell to her husband and children, whom she preceded in death. At Robinson II’s imposing grave, well-wishers have left coins and cigarillos, and hopefully visitors aren’t being presumptuous of a sailor’s smoking habits. Another remarkable grave, though sadly given less fanfare, is that of the most long-lived individual buried in Mouth Cemetery, Quis-Mo-Qua Anderson, an Ottawa woman who lived from 1787 to 1897, a grand 110 years. She was born in an Ottawa village on the Grand River, intertwining with the history of Michigan’s Native Americans and early European fur traders and settlers. After a long and esteemed life, it is fitting that she should be laid to rest above another river, close to a sacred burial ground for Ottawa. Quis-Mo-Qua’s grave is squat and square, decorated with pa-
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per flowers and candles, coins and rocks left as offerings. The sign marking Mouth Cemetery declares that it’s open from “Dawn to Dusk” and “a place of reverence and respect.” Sadly, Mouth Cemetery does not always receive respect for these requests, as its age, remote location and urban legends have earned it quite a reputation. Years of trespassing teenagers and youthful tomfoolery have added to the lore. According to my dad, a White Lake area local, teens would go out to the cemetery, throw parties, and scare themselves senseless - at least that’s what he heard. My dad didn’t go to parties. The truth is more harrowing. The nearby Ottawa settlement was purportedly attacked by a neighboring tribe in the mid-1600s, resulting in a veritable massacre of men, women and children. According to the lore, the survivors buried their dead at the mouth of the White River. Also, due to its proximity to Oceana, it is likely some residents of our county are buried in Mouth Cemetery, though due to the cemetery's age, it is not possible to ascertain the exact number.
Swift’s greetings from 100 years ago:'Raspberry Pie' is ripe in the Land of Mears By Mort Wiegand Oceana County Historical & Genealogical Society A century later, raspberries are ripe again in our area, along with most everything else! If you are looking for something cool to do on these hot summer days, consider visiting the Oceana County Historical & Genealogical Society's two locations. The Chadwick Munger House in Hart is open ev-
ery Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. There, we had seven queries, and 47 guests visited during the MayJune time frame. In Mears, at the Swift Lathers Museum for June, the season opened up with around 120 fourth graders from Hart Public Schools. The students came for a visit to all seven buildings, where volunteers were there to greet them and tell them some information about the complex. The Mears Museum Complex opened to visitors
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Saturday, June 21 for its first weekend this season. We are still open Saturdays and Sundays all summer from 1-4 p.m. Come visit us! Have you joined the Oceana County Historical & Genealogical Society yet? The cost for membership is $20 per year and includes a quarterly newsletter to keep you up-to-date on all the society news. We are also always in need of volunteers. Call (231) 873-2600 or stop in on Wednesdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. See you there! • $1,000 - Photographer • $5,000 - Freelancer • $10,000 - Reporter
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is published weekly at P.O. Box 192, Mears, MI 49436 • All rights reserved.
theoceanaecho@gmail.com • August 1, 2025 • Volume 3 • Issue 10 Office (Old Town Hall in Mears): M & W: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. • 231-301-8149 • ads@oceanaecho.com
We need your support! Please donate today! Donations in any amount can be made via Paypal at paypal.me/echopublishinginc, by scanning the QR code at right or by sending a check made out to Echo Publishing Inc. to P.O. Box 192, Mears, MI 49436.
Ongoing M&TH: Pentwater Farmers Market, Village Green, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. MON: Movies in the Park, John Gurney Park, Hart, starts at dusk. 3rd MON: OCDVA Coffee & Donuts for Veterans, Spouses and Veteran Widows, 9-11 a.m., Heritage Wedding Barn, Shelby. TUES: Crafts for Kids, Shelby Area Dist. Library 9 a.m. to noon. TUES: Tech Time, Hesperia Community Library, 1:30-2:30 p.m. TUES: TOPS, Hart Wesleyan Church, 5 p.m. 1st & 3rd TUES: Tech help,Pentwater Twp. Library, 1-2 p.m. 2nd & 4th TUES: New Era Farmer’s Market, NECRC, 4-7 p.m. 3rd TUES: Pentwater Jr. Women’s Club - Feeding America W. Mich. mobile food pantry, Pentwater Fire Dept., 11 a.m. WED: Love INC and TrueNorth Housing Assistance satellite please call 231-861-4880 to make an appointment. WED: Music in the Garden, Main Street Spa, Hart, 7-9 p.m. 1st & 3rd WED: Free community dinner, 5-6 p.m., Hart Wesleyan. 1st & 3rd WED: Hart VFW Post 1329 Burger/Chicken/Brat/ Ribs Night, 5-7 p.m., dine-in or carry out. THURS - "Harts 'n Homes" Women's Fellowship, Faith Christian Fellowship, 400 S. State St.,10 a.m. to 1 p.m. THURS: Maker’s Market, Hart Commons, 6-9 p.m. THURS: Pentwater Civic Band concerts, Village Green, 7:30 p.m. FRI: Story Time, HCL, 10-11 a.m., and Tween Night, 3-5 p.m. FRI: Preschool Story Hour, HAPL, 11 a.m. 2nd & 4th FRI: Knights of Columbus Bingo, 6 p.m., St. Gregory Parish Center, 214 S. Peach Ave., Hart, doors open at 4 p.m. 1st SAT: Baby Pantry, Trinity Lutheran Church, 8:30-10 a.m. The Ladder Community Center: Aug. 8: Top Rung Golf Scramble, 9 a.m., Oceana Golf Club FRIDAYS IN AUGUST: Grillin' for God,11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Aug. 11-13: 3-Day Bible Club for kids age 5-12, 1-2:30 p.m. Adult Hours: M-TH 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. and FRI 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. M-TH: “Summer Breakout” for 6th-12th grade youth (June-Aug.) MON: Women’s Bible Study, 1-2 p.m. / TUES: Men’s Bible Study, 10:30 a.m. to noon / SAT: “Celebrate” Worship Service, 6:30 p.m. Complete schedule at: theladdercommunitycenter.com
THE OCEANA ECHO AUGUST 1, 2025 5
August
Aug. 1 - Gina and Jordan, Hart Historic District Concert, 7 p.m. Aug 1-3 “Anne of Green Gables”, Youth Theatre Production, Hart Schools Auditorium, 7 p.m. (Fri & Sat), 3 p.m. (Sun). Aug. 1 - Allendale Jazz Orchestra Outdoor Concert, PTL, 7 p.m. Aug. 2 - COVE 5K Walk/Run & 10K Run, Pentwater, 8:30 a.m. Aug. 2 - CKJordan 21st Annual Pottery Show, 10 a.m. to 4 pm., 4270 Scenic Dr., Shelby. Aug. 2 - Walkerville All-School Reunion, 2-4 p.m. (Pioneer House open); 3-5 p.m. (Social Hour) and 5 p.m. (Dinner). Aug. 3 - Music at the Marina, Andy Patterson, Pentwater, 3-5 p.m. Aug. 5 - National Night Out,Shelby Twp. Park, 4-8 p.m. Aug. 6 - Versiti Mobile Blood Drive, HCL, 2:30-6:30 p.m. Aug. 7 - Versiti Blood Drive, Research Station, Hart, 2-6:30 p.m. Aug. 7 - Health & Resource Fair, NMHSI, Shelby, 3-6 p.m. Aug. 9 - 82nd Annual Strawberry Social, Claybanks UMC, 5-7 p.m. Aug. 9 - 2nd Annual Joe’s Spreading the Sunshine 5K, Shelby Township Park Pavilion, 9 a.m. Aug. 9 - Community Carnival, NCCC, Hesperia, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Aug. 9 - Pioneer House Ribbon Cutting, Walkerville, 11 a.m. Aug. 9 - Midsummer Madness, Community Picnic and Cornhole Tournament, Walkerville Village Park, noon. Aug. 11-14 - Way of Christ Sports Camp VBS, Mears, 6-8:30 p.m.
NMHSI Health and Resource Fair Aug. 7 in Shelby In celebration of National Health Center Week August 3-9, Northwest Michigan Health Services Inc. (NMHSI) invites the entire community to its 2nd Annual Health and Resource Fair Thursday, Aug. 7, from 3-6 p.m. This event, which will take place at 119 S. State St. in Shelby, is designed to promote health, wellness, and access to essential resources and will feature free health screenings, local vendors and community organizations, family-friendly activities, giveaways, refreshments and much more! National Health Center Week recognizes the vital role community health centers play in providing accessible, affordable care—especially to underserved populations across the country. “This event is a great opportunity to connect with the community,” Alicia Harmon, event coordinator, shared. “Local organizations will host booths and provide plenty of helpful information as well as fun games and activities for children.” NMHSI provides compassionate, quality health care to everyone in northwest lower Michigan, with locations in Traverse City, Benzonia, Manistee and Shelby. NMHSI offers low-cost services, extended hours, mobile clinics, sliding fee and discount drug programs and interpreter services. For additional questions or information, call 231-861-2130, ext. 424.
HCPAA presents 'Anne of Green Gables' August 1–3 Good Buy Book Sale returns August 23 in Shelby The Hart Community Performing Arts Association (HCPAA) will perform Anne of Green Gables, Aug. 1–3. This adaptation of L.M. Montgomery’s timeless novel will charm audiences of all ages with its wit, warmth and enduring spirit. Performances will take place at the Hart Middle School Auditorium on: Friday, Aug. 1 at 7 p.m., Saturday, Aug. 2 at 7 p.m. and Sunday, Aug. 3 at 2 p.m. Tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for students and free for children age 5 and under. Tickets will be available online at https://hcpaa.ludus.com/index.php?sections=events and at the door while supplies last.
Pioneer House ribbon cutting set for Aug. 9 It will be a big day in the Village of Walkerville next Saturday, Aug. 9, when an official ribbon-cutting ceremony will take place starting at 11 a.m. at the Pioneer House Museum, kicking off a day full of events for the entire community. “This year prior to our community picnic on Saturday, Aug. 9, a formal “ribbon cutting” ceremony will be held at 11 a.m. at the Pioneer House Museum, where we will celebrate the repainting of the museum and recognize the donors who made the project possible. A brief ceremony will feature speakers from the Oceana Community Foundation, the Great Lakes Energy People Fund, the village and the county board of commissioners. We hope many will be able to come out for the ribbon cutting, then join the community at the village park for a picnic, cornhole tournament and other activities,” said Walkerville Thrives Rebuilding Community Committee member Sharon Hallack. Walkerville Thrive’s 2nd Annual Midsummer Madness Community Picnic and Cornhole Tournament begins at noon at the Village Park, followed by the cornhole tournament, free children’s activities, a 50/50 drawing and baked goods and produce sale. All proceeds from the event will go to fund future Walkerville Thrives events. Free hot dogs and lemonade will be provided. Attendees are asked to bring a dish to pass, their own table service, seating and any other non-alcoholic beverages they may prefer. For those interested in participating in the tournament, registration will be $10 per two-person team, all ages, and will take place that day. Cornhole boards will be provided. Other outdoor games will also be available for those not wanting to be a part of the tournament. This event is being sponsored in part by Arbre Farms, Crosby Farm Market, Ed’s Orchard Market, Hansen Foods and Sanders Meats. For more information, please email walkervillercc@gmail.com
Friends of the Shelby Library announce the return of the 21st annual Good Buy Book Sale at the Shelby Area District Library on Saturday, August 23 from 9 a.m. until 1 p.m. This event is a wonderful opportunity to recycle one's home library. Friends of the Shelby Library invite all to donate books, CDs, DVDs, board games and puzzles to the sale. Donations can be brought to the library from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. starting Aug. 5 until Aug. 23. Please do not donate encyclopedias, condensed Reader's Digests, textbooks or musty books. For early-bird shoppers, the library will be open on the evening of Aug. 22 from 5-7 p.m. A $5 donation at the door will get these shoppers the first opportunity at these “good buys.” Hardcover books are priced at $1.50 each or three for $3, and paperbacks are $.75 each or three for $2.
82nd Annual Strawberry Social Claybanks United Methodist Church, located at 9197 S. 56th Ave. in Montague, is holding its 82nd Annual Strawberry Social Friday, Aug. 8 from 5-7 p.m. Shortcake and ice cream will be available along with a bake sale. Those wishing to attend should take Meinert Park Road to Indian Bay Road, then turn right to the church, or follow Webster Road West to 56th Avenue, then turn left to the church. This event is sponsored by Claybanks Women of Faith.
Come check out
Patty’s Barn in Blooming Valley Open: Friday, Aug. 1st from 5-7 pm Saturday, Aug. 2nd from 10am-2 pm
1427 W. Woodrow Rd., Shelby Lots to see, Antiques, Outdoor Decor, Glassware, Quilts, Bottle Tree, Items from Fowlers Garage and more!
Cash or CheCk only Please.
POTTERY SHOW 21st Annual, AUGUST 2, 10-4.
4270 Scenic Dr., Shelby (1 mi. north of Stony Lake/M-20).
One day only, rain or shine. Beautifully hand-thrown functional pottery by award-winning Stony Lake artist Cheryl K. Jordan. Casseroles, bowls, pitchers, mugs, berry bowls, vases, etc. Also original paintings by Margaret Billups.
810-288-4184
6 AUGUST 1, 2025 THE OCEANA ECHO
Community Grants awarded to 20 local organizations
The Oceana Community Foundation awarded $75,056 in total grants to 20 organizations in its Spring Community Grant round. These investments support a wide range of initiatives across our county, focusing on community restoration, youth development, housing and family stability, animal welfare, local economic growth and much more. “Twice a year, these requests to the foundation are a barometer for our area’s changing needs,” Oceana Community Foundation CEO Tammy Carey explained. “Last fall, community organizations were looking for support for arts programs, public healthcare and nonprofit programmatic support. However, this spring the focus shifted to meeting immediate community needs while fostering long-term impact. This grant cycle balances urgent support with strategic investments in youth, health, food, environment and community infrastructure. Our donor-advised fund partners and supporters of the Community Investment Fund allow the foundation to be flexible to our partners’ needs.” Basic needs grants were awarded to Trinity Lutheran Church, Revive Church in Hesperia and Rothbury Community Church. Youth development awards went to The Playhouse at White Lake, West Shore ESD, Lakeshore Children’s Advocacy Center and Michigan Works! West Central. Environment-focused grants were awarded to Pentwater Township and We Want the Land Coalition. Support for local economic growth and planning funding was awarded to the West Michigan Shoreline Regional Development Commission and to the Village of Hesperia. Grantee funding for this grant round include: • $4,650 - Camp Newaygo – True North for (5) full scholarships for STEM camp for girls • $5,000 - Family Promise of the Lakeshore for emergency assistance to families who are housing vulnerable • $3,000 - Hospice of Michigan for their Gestures of Grace program providing essential support for uninsured & underinsured families during hospice care
Lighthouse Lutheran Church LCMS
8786 N. Business US-31 Pentwater, MI • 49449 231-869-2527 Pastor John C. Hansen Sunday Worship - 11 a.m.
For more information, call 231-233-7703
EVERYONE IS WELCOME!
• $1,200 - First Tee-West Michigan to provide 4-6 dents with online learning resources towards future golf sessions at area schools employment • $5,000 - Lakeshore Children’s Advocacy Center to Around $30,000 in this season’s grants came from expand child abuse victim services to Oceana funds advised by the foundation’s Grant Committee. • $5,000 - LASSI for a fenced in recreation area for The committee makes recommendations from the dogs at the Oceana animal shelter foundation’s Community Investment Fund, which • $1,500 - Michigan Works! West Central for (3) consists of unrestricted dollars to meet our comyouth not funded via other programs to participate munity’s top needs, as well as from Field of Interest in a pre-apprenticeship career program Funds. These endowed funds were created to support • $4,530 - Oceana County Parks & Recreation Com- specific charitable areas like health, arts and environmission to add (2) concrete pads for ADA picnic ta- ment needs. In this round, $12,000 was granted from bles at Cedar Point Park the Community Investment Fund, and an additional • $1,400 - Pentwater Historical Society for the ‘Jour- $18,000 came from Field of Interest Funds, including neys to Pentwater’ museum exhibit the Bessie E. & Ethan Allen Gray Health Fund, Ocea• $5,000 - Pentwater Township for the beach resto- na County Parks & Trails Fund, Eugene Kuhne Fund, ration project at Charles Mears State Park Healthy Youth Healthy Seniors Fund, the William R. • $2,500 - Revive Church to establish an essential Lathers Golden Township Fund, the R.P. & M.J. Henry needs pantry in their new downtown Hesperia Family Fund and the Little Point Sable – Arts for Oceachurch location na County Fund. • $2,576 - Rothbury Community Church to increase Another $10,000 was granted under the direclocal, fresh foods for their Helping Hands food pan- tion of the foundation’s Youth Advisory Committee try through the Oceana Youth Fund. This fund is led by • $2,000 - Sable Points Lighthouse Keeper Associa- local high school students and emerging philanthrotion to provide maritime history materials to light- pists who meet monthly to identify youth needs in the house visitors and at area schools community and schools and respond through grant• $2,500 - Tall Turf Ministries to purchase a camp making and volunteerism. defibrillator In addition, an impressive $34,225 was granted • $5,000 – The Playhouse at White Lake to host a by the foundation’s donor-advised fundholders and creative collaboration for the writing of their youth community partners. These grant recommendations musical, "The Pirate Rocker Finds His Voice" came from the Gail Paulus Family Fund, Randall and • $5,000 - Trinity Lutheran Church for their pantry Linda Wagner Family Fund, Mrs. Mullen’s Closet building expansion Fund, Frank Family Memorial Fund, William R. Lath• $5,000 – Village of Hesperia for two new art instal- ers Foundation Fund, the Electric Forest Charitable lations, a sculpture & mural Fund and an anonymous donor—tremendous part• $4,200 - We Want LandCampground Coalition for removal ners in making this grant round a success. #1The Rated on Google & control of invasiveand Autumn Olive species at their TripAdvisor in Silver Lake The next community grant application will open Walkerville area camp for women & girls on Aug. 1 with letters of intent due on Aug. 15 and • $5,000 – West Michigan ShorelineChristian RegionalCampground De- full applications on Aug. 30. In mid-October, grantees Family Activities velopment Commission for an agricultural cluster will be notified of the foundation's funding decisions. Rental Cabins & RVs impact analysis More information on the upcoming Fall Competitive Full Hook-Up Sites • $5,000 – West Shore Educational Pool Service Grant Round is available at the foundation’s website andDistrict Ice Cream Shop to support school districts with transition age stu- at oceanafoundation.org or by calling 231-869-3377.
dunesharbor.org 231-873-3662
St. John the Baptist Catholic Chapel
S. 50th Avenue Claybanks
Sunday Mass: 8:30 am Easter Sunday through the end of September
Summer CampsLake for White UMC Kids Worship AgesGod, 7-17 Follow Jesus, Love & Serve all GraceAdventures.org Sunday Worship 9am Traditional Service
Strengthen Families 10 | Share Faith | Build Relationships 11am Praise Band Service Sunday Worship: a.m.
Faith Groups for All Ages Memorial Day ServiceWeekly Sunday Worship - 10:00AM Choir and Handbells Mission Opportunities through Labor Day
11am Kids Church/Youth Class/Nursery
2100 N. Ridge Rd., Mears
Home of the White Lake Free Store and The Gathering free meals 8555 Cook Street Montague, MI 49437 (231) 894-5789 www.whitelakeumc.org
St. Peter’S-By-the-Lake ePiScoPaL church
followers gathered. disciples scattered
Call 231-893-3085 graceadventures.org/summer-worship for more information
Ferry Memorial Reformed Church
8435 Old Channel
4775 First St • 231-861-2501
St. Joseph & St. Vincent Catholic Churches Office: 231-873-5776
www.stjosephweare.org Check out our Facebook page
St. Joseph, Weare 2380 W. Jackson Rd., Hart Saturday Mass: 7 p.m. Sunday Mass: 9 a.m. St. Vincent, Pentwater 637 E. Sixth St. Saturday Mass: 4 p.m. Sunday Mass: 10:30 a.m.
- Easter through October 82 S. Wythe St. in Pentwater Trail, Montague SUNDAY SERVICE: 9:30 a.m. Barrier Free • Nursery Provided (231) 869-7351 Confessions: 1/2 hour before 616-894-0172 Children’s SS: 9:45 a.m. Youth Group: Sundays 5-7 pm Join Us For Worship all Masses, except 10:30 Mass Nursery Provided SUNDAY EUCHARIST – 10 am 231.894.9415 Sundays at 10 a.m. Rev. Phil Sliwinski, Pastor
Sunday Worship: 10:00 am
8637 Old Channel Trail Montague, Michigan
www.ferrychurch.org
joinus@stjamesepiscopalpentwater.org
We Believe That God Loves You - No Exceptions
Pastor Benjamin Oliveira stpetersmontague@gmail.com stpetersbythelake.weebly.com Coffee fellowship after service
Blessings Abound!
newerareformedchurch.org
Hart United Methodist Church Our independent, non-denominational church is committed to reaching and serving those in our communities.
Sunday Services: 8:30 am and 10:45 am Wed. Family Night: 6-8 pm 4075 S. 132nd Ave., Hesperia 231-861-5007
NEWMANC3.ORG
2500 W. Winston Rd. • 231-893-4965
231-873-3516 9:30 a.m. Morning Service 11:15 a.m. Sunday Bible Classes hartunitedmethodist.org 6 p.m. Evening Service (1st and 3rd Sundays) www.facebook.com/HUMCmichigan
Nursery provided Senior Pastor - James Enns Associate Pastor - Bryan Wolff Associate Pastor - Luke Craymer Adult small groups and family ministries every week Second Monday Food Pantry 9:15-11:30 a.m. www.rothburycommunity.com Becoming Committed Followers of Jesus Christ
Mears United Methodist Church
3757 W. Polk Rd. Hart, MI 49420 Do No Harm, Do Good, Stay In Love With God
Sunday Services
English: 10 a.m. Spanish/Español: 12:30 p.m. Clothing Closet: Every Wed. 4-6 p.m. Family Dinner: 1st & 3rd Wed. 5-6 p.m.
(231) 873-0832
Full class schedule on our website:
hartwesleyanchurch.org
308 S. State St., Hart, MI 49420
1990 N. 56th Ave. Mears, MI 49436 10 am Service 231-873-0875 www.mearsumc.org Pastor Bev Williams
All Are Welcome
10:30 AM Sunday Service Pastor Cydney Idsinga
If you would like an appointment with Pastor Cyd, please call 231-873-3516
St. Stephen’s
1820 Ray Ave. 231-861-5554 Sunday Services: 9:30 a.m. and 6 p.m. Rev. John Medendorp www.neweracrc.org
Growing in Relationship with God, with Each Other, and with Our Community.
Shelby
Congregational
Lutheran Church United Church of Christ (LCMS)
51 E. Third St.
231-861-4404 • shelbycucc@gmail.com 7410 W. Johnson Rd., on Facebook • website under development Shelby • 231-861-2952 Sunday Service - 9:15 a.m. Sunday Service: 9:30 a.m. Coffee time follows School (Ages 4-12) • Nursery available • Chancel Summer Outdoor Service Sunday Choir & Bell Choir meet Wednesdays • Adult Bible Studies - Thursdays, Fall - May • 5th Saturday - Free Breakfast 8-10 a.m. • Hearing Loop • Barrier Free Rev. Kurt Overway
www.ststephensshelby.org
EVERYONE IS WELCOME!
5631 W. Stony Lake Rd. New Era, MI 49446 • 231-861-4059
office@tlcnewera.org • tlcnewera.org Rev. Sarah J. Samuelson Sunday Worship Service: 8 & 10 a.m. Barrier Free Access
Nursery Provided
claybankS united MethodiSt church
Sunday WorShip 10:30 a.m.
A warm welcome is extended to all who worship here
9197 56th avenue Montague, Mi
231-923-0573
claybankSuMc@gMail.coM
THE OCEANA ECHO AUGUST 1, 2025 7 In Loving Memory of our Family, Friends and Neighbors
obituaries Dr. Lynn William Boynton September 21, 1935 ~ July 25, 2025
Dr. Lynn William Boynton passed away peacefully on July 25, 2025, at the age of 89, following a year of navigating multiple medical and surgical challenges. Throughout his final chapter, he remained a model of grace and gratitude, expressing deep appreciation for his caregivers, hospice staff, and loving family. Born in Chicago, Illinois, on September 21, 1935, to Dr. Ben Lynn Boynton and Elizabeth Katterjohn Boynton, Lynn spent his childhood in numerous cities, including Chicago and Glen Ellyn, Illinois; Madison, Wisconsin; Paducah, Kentucky; Staunton and Rice, Virginia; and Dallas, Houston, and San Angelo, Texas. Despite the family’s many moves, Lynn always returned to his beloved Little Point Sable (LPS) on the shores of Lake Michigan each summer—a place that remained his lifelong sanctuary. Lynn graduated from Glenbard High School in 1954, earned his undergraduate degree from Beloit College in 1958, and received his medical degree from Northwestern University Medical School in 1962—25 years after his father and 25 years before his son, Melbourne, graduated from the same institution. He married the love of his life, Jacquie Duncan, in June 1958 in Metamora, Ohio. Their relationship began as a summer romance on the shores of Lake Michigan and blossomed into 67 years of enduring partnership. After completing his medical training, Lynn served as Commander of Base Medical Services at Chicksands Royal Air Force Base in Shefford, England, and later as an orthopedic surgeon at Chanute Air Force Base in Rantoul, Illinois. He found great purpose in orthopedic surgery, which allowed him to blend his love for mechanics and hands-on problem-solving with his desire to restore mobility to his patients. Following the completion of his orthopedic residency at Northwestern, Lynn and his family moved to Sylvania and then Ottawa Hills, Ohio, where he practiced at the Toledo Hospital for over 30 years. He also served as a clinical professor at the Medical College of Ohio, where he mentored generations of orthopedic residents. Dr. Boynton was a pioneer in minimally invasive joint repair, introducing arthroscopic surgery to Northwest Ohio. Outside of his medical career, Lynn lived a full and passionate life. At the encouragement of a neighbor, he took up running and qualified for the Boston Marathon in 1985, completing it in 2 hours and 67 minutes. He was an avid mechanic and antique car enthusiast, serving as a founding member and president of the Silver Ghost Association. He and Jacquie logged thousands of miles in their Silver Ghosts, including a 3,000-mile journey from Annapolis, Maryland to Monterey, California, in a 1916 Rolls-Royce Silver Ghost, to attend the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance. The couple traveled extensively with their cars across the U.S. and the globe—including to Australia, New Zealand, South Africa and Europe— and participated in four Alpine Reliability Tours (1993, 2003, 2013 and 2023). Lynn also had a soft spot for Ford Model A’s and was active in the Portside Model A Club and Edison-Ford Model A Club. Known affectionately as “Papa,” Lynn found deep joy in teaching his children and grandchildren the art of driving and repairing antique automobiles. He was as much a mentor in the garage as he was in the operating room. After retiring, Lynn and Jacquie made Little Point Sable their full-time summer home, spending winters on Sanibel Island, Florida, and later at Shell Point Retirement Community in Fort Myers. He loved the beach, sailing his Hobie Cat, running wooded trails and especially being surrounded by his family and lifelong friends. At LPS, he served as President of the Association and introduced the community’s first AED program. Lynn was deeply committed to his faith and spiritual communities. He was a longtime member of Monroe Street United Methodist Church in Toledo and later of the Sanibel Congregational United Church of Christ. He cherished the fellowship and music of Sunday evening hymn sings at LPS’s Little Brown Church in the Wildwood. He is survived by his devoted wife, Jacquie; four children: Melbourne (Lynn), Rebecca Montgomery (Bruce), Jennifer and Chuck (Jenni); 11 grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren, with a third on the way. He is also survived by his siblings Irvin, Mel (Beth), Sylvia McGuire and Teena Gagna; as well as many nieces and nephews who admired him deeply. Lynn will be remembered for his enduring love for Jacquie, his loyalty as a friend, his passion for learning and teaching, and his pursuit of excellence— whether performing surgery, restoring classic cars or running marathons. A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. on August 9, 2025, at the Little Point Sable Church. Following the service, friends are invited to gather with the family at the Thistle Dew Garage, 7655 W. Shelby Rd. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Community Food Pantry at Trinity Lutheran Church, 5631 Stony Lake Rd., New Era, MI 49446. Harris Funeral Home, in Shelby, is assisting with arrangements. www.harrisfhome.com
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.
Ellen Sue Pearson
October 9, 1980 ~ July 25, 2025 Ellen Sue Pearson, 44, of Walkerville, unexpectedly passed away Friday, July 25, 2025. She was born October 9, 1980, in Shelby, the daughter of Scott and Mary (Lathrop) Pearson. Ellen was a special person who was loved by many. She loved her cats, as well as sending cards to anyone in need, enclosed with a special Ellen note. Ellen had a quick comeback to everything and a sense of humor that will be missed by many. She enjoyed feeding the birds and supervising in the garden. But Ellen especially loved shopping trips, spending time with her mom and sister, having coffee with her dad, and yard saling with special friend, Cindy. Ellen is survived by: her parents, Scott and Mary Pearson; siblings, Robert (Emily) Pearson, Allison (Jason) Dirheimer and Jennifer Curtis; nieces and nephews, Brianna (Mark), Justin Dirheimer, Jaden Dirheimer, Libby Pearson and Anthony Curtis; special ‘twin’ Amanda Paine; and several aunts, uncles and cousins. Ellen was preceded in death by: her grandmas and grandpas; uncle, Joe Lathrop; cousins, Angie Nichols and Adam Lathrop; and special nephew, Logan Pearson. Memorial services will be conducted at 2 p.m., Sunday, August 3, 2025, at Walkerville Wesleyan Church, 144 176th Ave., Walkerville, MI 49459, with a luncheon to follow. The family will receive friends Sunday from 1:30 p.m. until the time of services. Private interment will be in West Hesperia Cemetery. Beacon Cremation & Funeral Service, King-Hart Chapel, is in charge of arrangements. www.beaconfh.com
Dolores Bauer
August 12, 1928 ~ January 23, 2025 Dolores Bauer, 96, of Mears, passed away peacefully January 23, 2025, at her residence. A Celebration of Life will be held from 1-4 p.m., with a time of sharing beginning at 3 p.m., Tuesday, Aug. 12, 2025, at Beacon Cremation & Funeral Service, King-Hart Chapel, 2370 N. 72nd Ave., Hart, MI 49420. Dolores loved baking and having ice cream; in her honor there will be an ice cream bar and cookies offered to all in attendance. A full obituary is available at www.beaconfh.com. Beacon Cremation & Funeral Service, King-Hart Chapel, is in charge of arrangements.
Celebration of Life – Leo Woodley A Celebration of Life for Leo Woodley will be held promptly at 3 p.m. on Wednesday, August 13, 2025, at the Heritage Wedding Barns, 813 S. 32nd Ave., Shelby, MI 49455. Help celebrate just the way Leo would’ve wanted—full of stories, laughter and classic rides. Come share memories (and maybe a few RPMs). After the celebration, join in for "Leo’s Last Ride," a nostalgic cruise from the Heritage Barns to Leo’s final resting place, the Hart Cemetery, and on to Golden Sands Golf Course and Bucket Bar, 2501 N. Wilson Rd., Mears, MI 49436, for a good old-fashioned car party from 5–7 p.m. Cake and ice cream will be served in Leo’s honor—because every celebration deserves a sweet finish.
War of 1812 veterans honored in Pentwater The Stephen Preston Chapter, United States Daughters of 1812, held a dedication ceremony at Pentwater Township Cemetery last month to honor War of 1812 veterans Bartow Underhill and Calvin Lewis. The ceremony was led by Chapter President Marsha Dekker. Underhill was born on Sept. 3, 1785, in New York. He enlisted on Oct. 1, 1812, serving as a private in Captain Butterworth's New York Militia. During the war, he was stationed on Staten Island and was honorably discharged on Nov. 25, 1812. On Nov. 1, 1853, he received bounty land in Michigan. By 1860, he was living in Pentwater as a farmer. He passed away on April 7, 1861. Lewis was born in 1793 in Vermont and served as a private in
• Contributed Photos
Captain Greene’s New York Militia. He later settled in Michigan, where he died on May 9, 1867. Chapter members in attendance included Michelle Buurma, Shannon Larson (of Pentwater), Royetta Doe and Barb Martin. They were joined by prospective member Sarah Deming, as well as Adam Youker (of Hart), a member of the General Society of the War of 1812.
The event was a meaningful tribute to two patriots whose service helped shape the young nation. Their memory was honored with reverence, reflection and a deep sense of gratitude.
8 AUGUST 1, 2025 THE OCEANA ECHO
FROM KING FEATURES WEEKLY SERVICE, • On Aug. 4, 2012, in London, Oscar WEEKLY SERVICE, Pistorius of South Africa became the WEEKLY SERVICE, 300 W. 57th STREET, 15th FLOOR,FROM NEW KING FEATURES first amputee to compete at the Olymh FLOOR, NEW pic Games. He finished second out of W. 57th STREET, FLOOR, NEW heat and FROM KING FEATURES WEEKLY 300 SERVICE, YORK, NY 10019 five 15th runners in the Byopening Lucie Winborne went on to the semifinals, where he 300 W. 57th STREET, 15th FLOOR,YORK, NEW NY 10019 finished eighth out of eight runners. CUSTOMER SERVICE: (800) 708-7311 EXT. • The sun emits sound through presEEKLY SERVICE, 800) 708-7311 EXT. • On Aug. 5, 1951, 38-year-old sure waves, but their wavelength makes YORK, NY 10019 Canadian daredevil William “Red” CUSTOMER SERVICE: (800) 708-7311 EXT. it impossible to be heard by humans. 257 FLOOR, NEW Hill Jr. attempted to go over NiagaIn 1989, PepsiCo ra• Falls in a barrel made introduced of 13 rubbera CUSTOMER SERVICE: (800) 708-7311 EXT. 257 breakfast drink called Pepsi with NOW HERE’S A TIP #12345_20250721 innertubes, canvas webbingA.M., and fish anetting caffeine content that was higher 45_20250721 that he dubbed “the25% Thing.” It 257 than cup ofunder coffee. for STRANGE BUT TRUE brokea#12345_20250721 apart theUnfortunately high water presFOR RELEASE JULY 21, 2025 0) 708-7311 EXT. the Pepsi surebeverage two hoursmaker, after hemost set out, butconhis 2025 sumers didn’t really care for the idea of NOW HERE’S A TIP #12345_20250721 badly injured body was not recovered FOR RELEASE JULY 21, 2025 By JoAnn Derson mixing breakfast. until thesoda nextwith morning. Aug. TheinNew •• AOn laser can6,get1975, trapped water.York FOR RELEASE JULY 21, 2025 By Lucie WinborneTimes a front-page obituary • The printed 2007 film “Ratatouille,” about 345_20250721 for alliance Agatha between Christie’sa garbage Belgianboy sleuth the and By JoAnn Derson Hercule Poirot — quite the honor a rat, spurred an uptick in adoption of 025 for arodents. fictionalAscharacter! had the rat expertChristie Steve Fairannounced decision to dispose of burn noted, her the film helped to promote himfact in her book;toindeed, the the that next “contrary popularasopinTimes “The news of hisand death, ion, ratsnoted, are one of the cleanest least given by Dame was not unexsmelly pets you Agatha, can own.” pected. Word that he was near death • The here Hollywood sign used to say reached last May.” Hollywoodland. • On Aug. 7, 1967, the U.S. Congress overwhelmingly thecreative? Gulf of • Want to be aapproved little more Tonkin Resolution, givingThe President Try taking a hot shower. warmth Lyndon B. Johnsonflow, nearly unlimited increases dopamine which in turn powerincrease to oppose “communist aggreshelps creativity. sion” in is Southeast Asia and 1,000 marking • There no number before that the beginning of America’s expanded contains the letter “a.” military role in the battlefields of Viet• Penicillin’s original name was nam, Laos and Cambodia. “mold wesix think the revised • On juice.” Aug. 8,Yes, 1942, German sabmoniker has a much nicer ring, too. the oteurs who’d secretly entered United a mission to attack • The States averageonperson is made up of its civil56% infrastructure around bacteria. were executed by electric chair for spying. Two oth• In Japanese, the word “kuchisaers who notified the FBI of the plot bishii” refers to eating not when you’re and aided authorities in their manhunt hungry, but when your mouth is lonely. for the collaborators were imprisoned • Itfreed takes six 90 days oneon drop of water but yearsforlater President to travelTruman’s the Mississippi Harry orders,River. and returned to• Germany. In the village of Brockworth, • On Aug. 9, 1995, England, folks gatherlegendary on everyGratespring ful Dead guitarist Jerry Garcia of bank holiday to chase wheels ofdied Double a heart attack in a down California residenGloucester cheese Cooper’s Hill. tial drug-treatment facility at wins. age 53.The First one over the finish line • On Aug. President Caltradition was 10, first1927, recorded in 1826 but vin Coolidge arrived in South Dakota may actually be around 600 years old on horseback wearing a cowboy hat and is world famous. to dedicate Mount Rushmore two • Popsicles were marketed months before its originally carving began and as a health food. presented sculptor Gutzon Borglum with a set of steel *** drill bits. © 2025for King Features Inc. people Thought the Day:Synd., “Weak revenge. Strong people forgive. Intelligent people ignore.” — Albert Einstein
• Mix a quarter cup of salt in with two tablespoons of bath wash for a sudsy, refreshing, skin-soothing salt scrub. • “Here is a fun game to play with Mix a of quarter salt in with two a •group kids cup (andof adults). Everytablespoons of bath sudsy, one gets a piece of wash paper for anda begins refreshing, skin-soothing scrub. to draw something. The salt group leader (mom or dad, saysto“Pass left • “Here is ausually) fun game play itwith (or right)”ofand passadults). your paper to a group kidsyou (and Everythe continues your one next gets person, a piece who of paper and begins drawing, and so on. We thisleader at the to draw something. Theplay group restaurant untilusually) the foodsays gets“Pass there.itThe (mom or dad, left drawings lookyour at later.” (or right)”are andfun youtopass paper — to T.T. in Ohio the next person, who continues your drawing, on. We play the • Here’sand a so cheap trick to this keepat cut restaurant untillonger: the food gets there.bitThe flowers fresh Stir a tiny of drawings toinlook later.” — sugar into are the fun water youratvase. Then T.T. in Ohio in the vase. drop a penny • Long-sleeve Here’s a cheap keep cut shirtstrick maketogreat beach flowers longer: Stir can a tinybebittied of or lake fresh coverups. They sugar thewaist water your vase. Then aroundinto your if in you aren’t using it, dropthey a penny the vase. and coverinyour whole arm. make great • Long-sleeve Need to put shirts on a bracelet butbeach have or laketocoverups. can Head be tied no one help with They the clasp? to around youroffice waistsupplies. if you aren’t it, your home Grabusing a large and they cover youritwhole arm. paperclip and twist open so it is in the shape of an “S.” Thread one loop the • Need to put on a bracelet butofhave “S” intotothe jump ring clasp no one help with the(where clasp?the Head to attaches) and use supplies. your handGrab to hold the your home office a large rest of theand paper clip. Bring paperclip twist it open sothe it isbracein the let around wrist and beofeasy shape of anyour “S.” Thread oneit’ll loop the to “S”attach! into the jump ring (where the clasp attaches) andhave use your hand to holdants the • “Do you trouble keeping rest of paper clip. Bring the braceout of the your hummingbird feeders? let around wrist andtheir it’llown be easy How aboutyour giving them cup to attach! of sugar water? Put 1/2 cup of sugar water thehave ground nearkeeping where ants you • “Doonyou trouble hang feeders. check it when you out of your Then hummingbird feeders? change the feeder.” — G.B. in Pavilion, How about giving them their own cup NY of sugar water? Put 1/2 cup of sugar water the ground Sendonyour tips to near Nowwhere Here’syou a hang feeders. Then check you Tip, 628 Virginia Drive,it when Orlando, change the feeder.” — G.B. in Pavilion, FL 32803. NY © 2025 King Features Synd., Inc. Send your tips to Now Here’s a Tip, 628 Virginia Drive, Orlando, FL 32803. © 2025 King Features Synd., Inc.
By Lucie Winborne • The sun emits sound through pressure waves, but their wavelength makes it impossible to be heard by humans. • In 1989, PepsiCo introduced a breakfast drink called Pepsi A.M., with a caffeine content that was 25% higher than a cup of coffee. Unfortunately for the beverage maker, most Pepsi consumers didn’t really care for the idea of mixing soda with breakfast. • A laser can get trapped in water. • The 2007 film “Ratatouille,” about the alliance between a garbage boy and a rat, spurred an uptick in adoption of the rodents. As rat expert Steve Fairburn noted, the film helped to promote the fact that “contrary to popular opinion, rats are one of the cleanest and least smelly pets you can own.” • The Hollywood sign used to say Hollywoodland. • Want to be a little more creative? Try taking a hot shower. The warmth increases dopamine flow, which in turn helps increase creativity. • There is no number before 1,000 that contains the letter “a.” • Penicillin’s original name was “mold juice.” Yes, we think the revised moniker has a much nicer ring, too. • The average person is made up of around 56% bacteria. • In Japanese, the word “kuchisabishii” refers to eating not when you’re hungry, but when your mouth is lonely. • It takes 90 days for one drop of water to travel the Mississippi River. • In the village of Brockworth, England, folks gather on every spring bank holiday to chase wheels of Double Gloucester cheese down Cooper’s Hill. First one over the finish line wins. The tradition was first recorded in 1826 but may actually be around 600 years old and is world famous. • Popsicles were originally marketed as a health food. *** Thought for the Day: “Weak people revenge. Strong people forgive. Intelligent people ignore.” — Albert Einstein © 2025 King Features Synd., Inc.
© 2025 King Features Synd., Inc.
Oceana County ANIMAL SHELTER Hey there, I’m Reggie — 60(ish) pounds of pure love muffin packed into a body that thinks it's made of marshmallows. I’m a 3-year-old Boxer mix, and yes, I absolutely believe I am a lap dog. If you sit, I sit... on you. If you lie down, I spoon. If you need personal space, I am not the dog for you. I’m uber friendly — like, "make friends with the mail carrier, delivery driver, and that squirrel I saw one time" friendly. If you’re breathing, I probably love you. If you’re not breathing, I’ll wait patiently and love you later. I’m the total package: big goofy grin, wiggly butt, world-class cuddler, motivated by snacks and belly rubs and an expert in giving “the eyes” until you scoot over and make room. I love people, and I’m ready to be your giant cuddle bug, walking buddy, and full-time best friend. Reggie is available for adoption from the Oceana County Animal Control. If interested, please call the shelter at 231861-5395. The adoption fee for cats is $35 and you receive certificates for $25 towards spay/neuter and $10 towards rabies if not already done. The adoption fee for dogs is $95 and will receive a $50 certificate good for spay/neuter if needed. Every dog should have an ID tag. L.A.S.S.I. provides free dog ID tags to all Oceana County residents. To request tags, send a text to 231-730-3906. Free tags also available at the Oceana Meet Reggie are County Animal Shelter.
Missed Connection
To the Barnes & Noble “Most Beautiful Smile” and the Chainsaw Carving Festival “Jesus is My Savior, Trump is My President” cap lady: Please meet me Thursday nights ‘til the end of Summer, at the Pentwater Civic Band Concerts, near the steps, 7:00 to 7:40 p.m.
-K
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THE OCEANA ECHO AUGUST 1, 2025 9
Pentwater Village Council Farming for the Future Field Day focuses on SWOT analysis is planned for August 21 in Hart findings, plans next steps By AnnaMae Bush The Oceana Echo Community Correspondent The Pentwater Village Council met Monday, July 28, at 6 p.m. with the Steering Committee for Strategic Planning. Council members Don Palmer, David Bluhm, Jarod Griffis, Kathy O’Connor and Mary Marshall were present; members Carl Schrumpf and Dan Nugent were absent. The meeting had one purpose: to review and discuss the results of the community survey regarding the village’s strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats (SWOT analysis). Responses were grouped by those who took the survey online (143) and those who responded in person through interviews or public forums (71). The Steering Committee had met earlier in the day with Chet Janik, hired consultant from the Michigan Leadership Institute, to look at responses and draft a possible vision statement and mission statement on which to base a strategic plan. Steering Committee members Joe Roberson, Dean Gustafson and Amy LaBarge were present at the council meeting; members Kyle Jansen and Niki Breazeale were absent. Prior to the evening discussion, Council President Marshall emphasized that the survey provided an external point of view to be considered in formulating the Strategic Plan. Council members’ responses would provide an internal point of view, which could differ in some areas from the external views because of council’s more intimate knowledge of the governing aspects of the village. Both views would be important to the formation of the Strategic Plan. Janik laid the groundwork for the discussion by summarizing the 214 survey responses by listing the top five responses in each category from the online replies and the in-person replies. There was significant uniformity in the replies from both groups and conformity with results from several other surveys conducted over the past 10-12 years. Strengths focused on a strong sense of community, the natural beauty of the area and the commitment to and opportunities for volunteerism. Weaknesses called out were: a lack of affordable housing for young families and too many shortterm rentals; lack of a defined plan for infrastructure (especially parking and sidewalks) and channel maintenance; competing visions of the business community, residents and tourism; the village/township dichotomy; and the past lack of transparency with former government officials. Correlating with dissatisfaction with past governing officials, the opportunities included optimism with the village’s new council and staff leadership; expansion and support of year-round businesses (tax incentives suggested); developing or updating zoning, short-term rental and other ordinances to attract young families; enhancing the village’s marketing and communications plans; and expanding housing and services for seniors to facilitate aging in place in the community. Threats mirrored the weaknesses: lack of affordable housing and young
families; lack of a long-term plan for channel maintenance and infrastructure upgrades; lack of services for the aging population; and lack of medical, dental, pharmacy and grocery sources. LaBarge said, “I didn’t anticipate any surprises in the responses, but I found that the frequent listing of golf carts and lack of enforcement ordinances about the golf carts as a ‘threat’ did surprise me.” Others present found themselves in agreement with the concern. “I’ve seen golf carts driven by youths too young for licenses, carts driven far too fast for safety or carts driven after dark without lights on,” O’Connor reported. Speaking for the Steering Committee, Roberson shared the evolution of a mission statement the group drafted for the council to consider. He reminded the group that surveys are only tools, sometimes flawed, that provide a starting point for a strategic plan. Marshall challenged the council members “to tear the statement apart. What do you like about it? What words or language do you find troubling? What don’t you see here that you think should be here? What do you see here that you think should not be here? What ideas or goals do you have to add to the Steering Committee statement?” Her challenge launched a long discussion. Notable comments included the importance of mentioning “essential services and doing them well,” the importance of “reviewing and updating the master plan as things may evolve – for example, our recycling program,” “we should have a road map clear enough to help us determine what new things may fit, or may not fit, in our strategic plan,” “we need to include things ranging from the most basic to the cutting edge,” and “we need to recognize we can’t do everything, we are a village that can’t afford to do everything on the cutting edge.” O’Connor appreciated the strength of the verbs in the present tense, i.e., “is …” instead “will strive to be…” She also remarked on the need for attention to the loaded meaning a word or phrase could hold, enabling different interpretations to different people. Roberson’s suggestion to the council was to formulate the strategic plan on three or four “pillars” under which they could list short- and longterm goals with a time frame for accomplishing them. Some options for the “pillars” were essential services, economic development, housing, communication among constituents in the community or protection of the natural environment. As one or two goals were accomplished, one or two more could be tackled. Closing comments included Village Manager Rachel Witherspoon’s report that she had met with the zoning administrator and DPW director to work on plans for sidewalk repairs, scheduled to begin this fall. She also reported an arborist had been consulted to determine what may have caused all the trees on Hancock Street in the business district to exhibit fall characteristics prematurely. A lack of water was ruled out as the cause. This concluded the evening’s discussion and the meeting adjourned at 7:30 p.m.
The Farming for the Future Field Day will be Thursday, Aug. 21, 2025, at the West Central Michigan Research and Extension Center in Hart. This event is being hosted by Michigan State University (MSU) Extension and the Oceana Conservation District. The program will provide a full day of information for commercial tree fruit and vegetable growers. Experts from MSU, USDA, Washington State University, the Washington Tree Fruit Commission, Storage Control Systems Inc. and Techmark Inc. will present on important topics such as managing sunburn, considerations for fruit and vegetable storage, produce quality and advances in field automation. There will also be demonstrations of spray drone applications in pumpkin, an update for an asparagus harvesting prototype and an autonomous robotic apple harvester, which is currently being developed and tested by a joint MSU and USDA team through a Specialty Crop Research Initiative grant. Presenters will provide indoor and outdoor presentations and hands-on experiences with demonstrations in the field. The Farming for the Future Field Day will take place from 9 a.m. to 3:45 p.m., and registration will begin at 8:30 a.m. This is a free event, but registration is required and includes a catered lunch. Pre-register at https://events.anr.msu.edu/ Farmingforthefuture2025/ by Aug. 18. For questions or more information, please contact Kathy Walicki at walicki@ msu.edu or Emily Lavely at lavelyem@msu.edu. Organizers look forward to seeing attendees in person!
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Notice of Public Hearing on Increasing Property Taxes The Ferry Township Board of the Township of FERRY will hold a public hearing on a proposed increase of 0.1210 mills in the operating tax millage rate to be levied on property in 2025. The hearing will be held on Tuesday, August 19, 2025 at 5:50 PM at the Ferry Township Hall, 3222 Green Street, Shelby, MI 49455. The date and location of the meeting to take action on the proposed additional millage will be following the public hearing at the regular scheduled Township meeting. If adopted, the proposed additional millage will increase operating revenues from ad valorem property taxes 3.10% over such revenues generated by levies permitted without holding a hearing. If the proposed additional millage rate is not approved, the operating revenue will increase by 3.38% over the preceding year’s operating revenue. The taxing unit publishing this notice, and identified below, has complete authority to establish the number of mills to be levied from within its authorized millage rate. This notice is published by: FERRY TOWNSHIP 3222 Green Street Shelby, MI 49455 (231) 861-0545
10 AUGUST 1, 2025 THE OCEANA ECHO
Hart City continues city manager search By Claire Marshall The Oceana Echo Community Correspondent Mitch Foster of Double Haul Solutions introduced himself and his company to Hart City Council at its June 22 meeting. Double Haul has been contracted to recruit a replacement for the city manager position, from which Rob Splane recently resigned. Foster is a former manager for the City of Ludington and currently works with Double Haul alongside his responsibilities as VP of Administrative Services at West Shore Community College. He was largely responsible for the successful recent hirings of Rachel Witherspoon as the village manager of Pentwater and Kaitlyn Aldrich as the city manager of Ludington. Foster’s presentation mainly revolved around providing an expectant timeline for their recruitment of a new manager, as well as a general query to the council of what they were looking for in prospective candidates. The tentative timeline, which is contingent on the cooperation of city officials to provide swift and thorough feedback to Double Haul, is to have the job posted by mid-August with applications due about a month later. The end of September would see the first round of interviews conducted by Double Haul and their shortlist of 8-12 candidates presented to council during closed session, where ideally the list would be reduced to 3-5. The interview process would, hopefully, conclude Oct. 3, with an open house and thorough interviews spread over two days. Ideally, Foster indicated that the City of Hart will hopefully see a new city manager by the end of October. Foster acknowledged that the process sounds exhausting, but that they’ve made it their mission at Double Haul to streamline it and make it as painless for the city and prospective candidates as possible. Foster inquired about certain items of the council, such as whether the city had a working master plan, any changes necessary for the job description provided by Splane, if the council would like Double Haul to provide a salary survey adequate for the community, and if there were Finance and Personnel committees to which he could present the drafted “brochure.” He also asked if there was anything the council wished to make transparent about the City of Hart and its management. “Let’s get it out in the open now because the candidates will do their research, just like you all will for them. They’re looking for a place they want to call home.” The council assured that they had no skeletons in the city’s closets and provided the relevant information regarding committees, master plans, salary and job descriptions. Foster also made it known that Double Haul provided contract assistance free of charge and could possibly provide an interim manager for a fee. He then proceeded with his survey of baseline questions and topics for the council to think about. What locations in the community are high priority for candidates to tour - “You’re selling an area, you’re selling a community beyond the City of
Hart.” - and what community members, business and non-profit leaders candidates should meet. Most importantly, Foster asked the council “what are you looking for?” Council Member Karen Thomson wishes to see someone who’s “even-keeled” and can get along with the various supervisors in the city. Mayor Amanda Klotz is interested in someone with “brand new eyes, maybe some real vision… Just looking at our community, what can they add to it, what ideas they may have going forward?” Council Member Andrew Mullen admits to having a “long list” but primarily wants someone with a “keen eye towards economic development.” Council Member Jim Cunningham wishes to see someone who will promote the city and work well with encouraging events and activities. “Getting us more on the map, I guess you’d say.” When asking about qualifications and whether government experience is a must, Foster described a hypothetical candidate who might not have a government background, but may be a business owner. The council also agrees that, while fresh eyes are always appreciated, they’d like someone with some background or prior experience in local government. As Council Member Betty Root explained, “Here we’re responsible to the people in the area, and in a business, they do their own thing.” Partway through the inquiry, the council was diverted by a misunderstanding on the part of Council Member Cat Burillo. “My understanding at our last meeting, and I say this because it's a public meeting, is that we were going to pause [on Double Haul’s search]. Some ideas and suggestions had been put forward for an interim city manager.” This sentiment was shared by Council Member Dean Hodges. Klotz explained that, while other options in the interim may have been in the works, they still needed someone to look for a permanent manager, with Mullen agreeing , adding “with a process like this that’s going to take four months, is it not possible to do them in parallel?” Foster went on to explain that they are not a “post-and-pray organization” but would actively search and even cold-call in the pursuit of finding a manager. However, he is “at the pleasure of the council” and is happy to come back at another time should the perfect candidate for Hart walk in on their own accord. Finally, Foster asked if there were any “hard no’s” besides the expected “no felons.” Otherwise, Burillo and Klotz recommended that the question would be better asked of department supervisors. Foster concluded by asking the council where the best place in Hart to get pizza was, which was perhaps the most contentious question of the evening. Moving on, the council was informed that the city received a notice from their internet provider, Spectrum, that the free WiFi offered at the Hart Commons was recently used by someone trying to pirate and illegally download a movie. Following this discovery, it was quoted that the cost for the city to protect itself from this liability in the future
was around $4,000. This led to the question as to whether the City of Hart still has a duty to provide this amenity for their community. Mullen, who works in IT, had much to say on the topic. He recounted how this service removed the burden of providing free and open WiFi from local businesses, and that one business owner had already received an angry letter from their internet provider when a guest used their WiFi to illegally download a Disney movie (it is unknown whether this is the same person as at the Hart Commons.) He considers the continuation of the Commons WiFi with protection a reasonable investment, and that $4,000 is a reasonable price for the service. Root and Cunningham agreed with Mullen, the latter saying that “it’s a service we’ve been providing for the last 10 years. I would hate to see that service taken away.” During the discussion, a concerned citizen was allowed to interject to ask if the council was sure this letter was not a scam, especially if other businesses had been on a similar receiving end. They were assured that the letter was legitimate and marked with the city’s Spectrum account number. After these considerations, the council agreed to pay for the protection service and continue to provide WiFi at Hart Commons. Finally, City Manager Splane wanted to refresh the council on the work-in-progress plans for the Safe Routes to School project, as the discussion had come up previously and some current council members were not serving in 2018 when the project was introduced. The project was proposed by the Pentwater-Hart Trail Committee, who asked for the city’s collaboration in applying for the Safe Routes to School grant to fund a project to provide an extension of the Hart-Montague Rail Trail through the Hart Public School District. This extension would provide a safe walking and biking route starting at the Hart terminus of the Rail Trail on Water Street, leading down Johnson Street, passing between the school bus yard and skate park, connecting to South Plum Street, and proceeding down West Main Street until ending at the trailer park on the corner of Tyler Road and 72nd Avenue. At this point the planned route is tentatively approved by MDOT which has been a “sticking point” in the past - provided their archeological team approves the construction along cemetery and church property. As several years have passed since the project was first introduced to the community, the council asked if adequate information could be provided to residents who live on the projected path. Splane agreed that this would be necessary, even if the initial feedback from 2018 was positive, and the city would need to engage the community once more before the “trigger is pulled.” Mullen concluded that, despite the already hefty project list slated for Hart’s infrastructure in the coming years, this project would be well utilized by adults, families and students alike. The project will continue as planned.
• Contributed Photo by Faune Stevens
Elaina Good and Ellie Hren
Local Girls Scouts honored for Mackinac Island service program By Scott Kroepel The Oceana Echo Community Correspondent Two Girl Scouts from Hesperia Troop 8303 of the Michigan Shore to Shore Council were recently chosen to serve in the Mackinac Island Honor Guard Troop 147. Elaina Good and Ellie Hren were selected through an application process from a group of 7th through 12th grade girls for their commitment to service and the Girl Scout Leadership Experience. According to the Michigan Shore to Shore website, "since 1976, Girl Scouts have had the honor of serving in the Mackinac Island Scout Service Program (MISSP) program. It is an opportunity for girls to play a vital role on the historic Mackinac Island. Selected applicants serve the State of Michigan for seven days by taking on tasks including flag ceremonies, guide duties, and service projects. Being a member of the MISSP - Girl Scout Honor Troop 147 requires dedication, service, work and a lot of fun; all resulting in a memorable and valuable experience for girls." Ellie shares a lot of international knowledge, having recently moved to the area from Australia. And Elaina and her troop have been part of many local service projects, including watering downtown flowers with the Hesperia Beautification Committee, participating in annual park clean-up days, gathering fresh product donations and organizing food drives for TrueNorth Community Services, and supporting veterans by serving meals at the Hesperia American Legion every Veteran’s Day and taking part in Flag Day and flag retirement ceremonies. Good and Hren participated in a six-day training program in Muskegon and served on the island from July 5-13. Service Unit 211 Director Barb Wright said, “I am impressed by these girls' dedication to the Girl Scout program. They are prime examples of courage, confidence and character. They do not travel with their parents for this opportunity. They have proven themselves time and again. Hesperia should be proud of their accomplishment. I know our Girl Scout family is so proud!"
SEALED BID NOTICE VILLAGE OF SHELBY
Date: 7/29/25 For Sale: 2017 Ford Police Interceptor Utility AWD 94,000 miles. Vehicle can be viewed at the Village of Shelby DPW Garage 88 W. Sixth St. Shelby, MI 49455. Minimum bid is $10,000.00. Bid will be awarded to the highest bidder. Submission Deadline: Sealed bids must be dropped off by 11:30 AM on August 12, 2025 to Shelby Village Hall 218 N. Michigan Ave. Shelby, MI 49455. Envelope must be sealed and marked as “2017 Interceptor” Contact: Chief Dean Roesler at 231861-4400 ext. 5 or email droesler@ shelbyvillage.com with questions or for more information. Bid opening will be at 12:00 PM on August 12, 2025 at the Shelby Village Hall.
THE OCEANA ECHO AUGUST 1, 2025 11
Shelby covers much ground over a myriad of meetings By Sharon Hallack and Amanda Dodge The Oceana Echo Community Correspondents The last few months have been busy for the Village of Shelby, with a number of projects coming to completion and many more begun. At the May 12 council meeting, members of Shelby's Tiger Bytes Robotics Team were present to express their thanks to the many donors who helped them get to State for the first time in their first year. Also, at that meeting, village residents Ben and Paula Michalko brought their concerns regarding Ordinance No. 02-24B § 430-25 regarding "Sidewalks to remain clear and clean" and § 430-26 "Snow and ice removal." § 430-25, reads, "Property owners and/or occupants shall keep the sidewalks abutting their premises clear and clean, and shall remove all papers, leaves, trash, personal property, grass and weed overgrowth, and all protruding branches or overhanging shrubbery, thereby providing a passage at least seven feet high and six inches outside of the sidewalk boundaries." The Michalkos stated that they were against the ordinance, deeming it "inappropriate" and "not very friendly" to residents. After much discussion, council voted to suspend enforcement of the ordinance while they looked into it further. Village Administrator Phil Morse was against the suspension, stating that enforcement of the ordinance is about the bigger picture of consistently making the village "look nicer." Suspending enforcement of the ordinance means that individuals in violation will not be required to comply with the notice to abate, nor will the cost of abatement be charged against the premises if they fail to comply with the terms within 48 hours after notice has been given. At council's June 9 meeting, approval was given to two specific roadway-related grants. A Safe Routes to School grant, which was due June 18, would fund $900,000 of infrastructure improvements for sidewalk and crosswalk improvements along Sixth Street and State Street, as well as an additional $45,000 for programming support to educate the community and promote proper and expanded use of the new walkways. (see “Shelby Village takes next steps toward SRTS grant application” from the June 13 edition of The Oceana Echo for more specific information on this grant.) A second grant application, which was due June 13, the Category B Transportation Economic Development Fund grant, in the amount of $246,500, would provide a 50/50 matching opportunity for the village utilizing the village’s local street funds for the match. “Because the village has already allocated funds for water main and roadway improvements along South Michigan Avenue, by coordinating this work with a road resurfacing project, we can enhance the village’s application’s competitiveness, Morse explained in his memo to council. “If awarded, the grant would allow reconstruction of South Michigan and resurface both Bennet and Grant Streets at no additional local cost.” Council also gave their approv-
• Amanda Dodge/Echo
The Shelby Village Council is joined by the Tiger Bytes Robotics Team al to a recommended Wellhead Protection Renewal Plan (WHPP) renewal. According to Morse, the village first adopted a WHPP in 1995, however, the most recent plan expired in 2021. The plan will be good for five years and allows extra “points” when applying for Drinking Water State Revolving Fund grants. “Not only does the WHPP analyze the village’s current infrastructure, but looks for possible sources of contamination and makes recommendations based on the findings. You’ve probably seen the 'Wellhead Protection Area' signs around; those are related to WHPP.” The cost of developing the plan would be $6,750 and has not been budgeted in this fiscal year, however, Fleis & VandenBrink Engineering, Inc. has agreed to assist with the renewal and will apply for a Michigan EGLE (Environment, Great Lakes & Energy) Source Water Protection grant, which offers a 50% reimbursement for eligible costs. They would also manage grant administration and facilitation. Waiver of a tap-in fee of $39,326 for Shelby Township Park’s Tiger Athletic Community Complex was also approved. Morse’s memo to council stated, “The proposal had been reviewed by the village’s Water and Sanitation Committee several months ago and had recommended it be brought before council. The township has requested, at their own expense, water service from the village for their fire suppression system, as well as for other basic water needs (restrooms, drinking fountains). The township reported it had applied for a right-of-way permit to install a four-inch water line from the fire hydrant at the end of Industrial Park Drive out to the athletic center. The township had asked for the waiver based on the belief that village residents will more than likely be among the primary users of the center, second only to township residents. In addition, the township said it will pay the standard readyto-serve charges and fees for basic water use as well as an annual fee for fire suppression services. The village’s legal counsel had confirmed these are standard operating practices in other municipalities.” Given the information and discussion that followed, the council voted to approve the township’s waiver request with council member Dan Zaverl voting in opposition. Lastly, the council gave approval for a proposed “weekend park maintenance” solution. As hoped, the new Getty Park is seeing a lot of use, bringing with it necessary maintenance and upkeep. Because the village parks maintenance staff only works Monday through Friday, trash removal and restroom care hasn’t been occurring on the weekends. Morse proposed three possible solutions and approximate costs to help solve the problem; pay the village’s current park maintenance staff member for two hours
of overtime on both Saturdays and Sundays (at a cost of $4,750 for 34 weeks); have on-call DPW staff members handle the cleaning when they are on call and compensate them with the standard two-hour minimum (at a cost of $5,650); or recruit volunteer custodians to clean bathrooms and take care of trash on weekends and holidays (at a cost of $2,375-$2,825 for one of the weekend days). After discussion, council voted to have the on-call weekend staff take care of maintaining the park’s restrooms and removing trash as needed. Following the June 21 double-ribbon cutting ceremony for the newly renovated Getty Park, council met June 23 and expressed their gratitude to the many people involved in this multi-year project and noted how well the event went. Village President John Sutton, during his report, stated "I'd like to go through and thank everybody who had a role in this…it takes so much more than just one person. It really takes a village sometimes. "The party went really well. It was a little breezy, but it kind of helped keep it cool for us. I think everybody enjoyed it, and when you go by the park, there is a sense of pride. We all know we did the right thing by building that park. "We're proud of everybody that had a part in it." Morse added that though this project has transitioned through multiple administrators, it stayed on track, and "the village council needs to take credit for that because (they) kept on the path of what (the) plans were." The momentum from the completion of Getty Park rolled straight into the first Shelby Chainsaw Carving Festival less than three weeks later. After the two-day July 11-12 event, council met for their July 14 meeting, which was one of their shortest to date. "I was very pleased with the results. The only thing…I wish there (were) maybe a few more people [spectators]. It's a first time thing. There's a lot going on," Morse noted. "The auction sales were great. Our carvers went away very happy." He also readily acknowledged the many volunteers and village staff who made the event possible and thanked not only them but also the council for its in-kind donation to cover the cost of the staff's labor. "It's going to go on next year," Morse added. "I have ideas to expand it." Morse would like to remind all residents to check out the latest Village of Shelby YouTube video featuring Police Chief Roesler talking about junk cars. These informative, short videos address a variety of topics and answer questions posed by residents, council members as well as the community. Please contact the village hall with suggestions for future videos. All Village of Shelby YouTube informational videos are available at “Village of Shelby 218.”
MSUE Vegetable Educator Ben Werling, above left, led the participants in an exercise to identify disease, insect pests and beneficials in the Research Center's small vegetable garden and pumpkin patch as one of the field activities for the Beginning Farmer Field Day. Oceana Conservation District Technician Lynda Herremans demonstrated a rainfall simulator in the field during the soil health session of the field day. The simulator is used to depict how soil cover, tillage management and living roots may impact soil runoff and infiltration.
Local agricultural partners hold first Beginning Farmer Field Day A Beginning Farmer Field Day took place Tuesday, July 22, 2025, at the West Central Michigan Research and Extension Center in Hart with 35 people in attendance. The event was hosted by the Oceana Conservation District (OCD), Michigan State University (MSU) Extension and Oceana County Farm Bureau. Topics covered were soil health, trickle irrigation, pest and disease scouting in fruit and vegetables, pollinator planting, soil and water stewardship, produce safety, community food systems and implementing a farm business plan. The target audience was for those who are interested in starting a farm or have just gotten started. Demonstrations in the field were part of the experience. Four specialty crops were highlighted with rotating stations at the end of the day: 1) Fruit 2) Vegetables 3) Christmas Trees 4) Chestnuts. Presenters included several MSU Extension educators, Oceana and Newaygo Conservation District staff, Michigan Department of Agriculture (MDARD) regional staff, and local experts. Representatives from agricultural agencies USDA - Natural Resources Conservation Service, USDA – Farm Service Agency, Oceana Conservation District, local MSU Extension office, West Central Michigan Research and Extension Center, Michigan Farm Bureau and MSUE Smart Gardening provided a short talk about the services they offer and provided take-home information as well. All participants also received a unique Beginning Farm Field Day baseball cap. For more information on this or other programs offered by OCD or MSUE; call the OCD office in Shelby at 231-861-5600 ext. 5 or MSUE in Hart at 231-873-2129.
JOB POSTING CRYSTAL TOWNSHIP CLERK
The Township of Crystal in Oceana County is searching for a person to fill the vacant position of Township Clerk. Basic responsibilities include but are not limited to: • Payroll • Accounts Payable • Quick Books accounting/Budget forecasting/ management • Elections Management (includes training) • Maintain official township records and documents • Maintain and manage the township cemetery records • Attend and record all township board meetings minutes • Prepares and files monthly, quarterly, and annual tax reports • Prepares and files W-2s, 1099s, and other required forms • Ensures records are audit-ready and assists during audits • Runs QuickBooks reports for township board members Work hours vary from month to month and can increase significantly during election seasons— especially in presidential election years. Township elections may be held frequently, and flexibility is essential. Those interested should send their letter of interest/resume to: Lee Hyslop, Supervisor Crystal Township 1499 E. Hammett Hart, MI 49420
12 AUGUST 1, 2025 THE OCEANA ECHO
SPORTS
HART • HESPERIA • PENTWATER • SHELBY • WALKERVILLE
Burning questions: A quick look into local football programs By: Brendan Samuels The Oceana Echo Sports Editor With the month of July now officially behind us, the fall sports picture is beginning to pull further into focus for the 2025-26 school year. While teams haven’t held official practices yet (they can do so starting on August 11), now seems as good of a time as any to reflect on last season and see what awaits area teams this year. This week, we’ll take a look at the teams on the gridiron as part of our preseason coverage. Hart, Hesperia and Shelby all had different levels of success last fall, but none were able to push into the postseason and compete for a state title.
Hart Pirates 2025 record: 4-5 overall, 2-3 West Michigan Conference (WMC) Rivers Division Key losses: Eman Hertzler, Kaden Bond, Alex Hicks, Ty Thomas, Ty Schlukebir Two seasons ago, Hart football was an unstoppable force that cruised to a 9-2 overall record and a playoff berth. The Pirates ended that stint with the program’s first playoff win over Kent City, before falling to Reed City the very next week. While the Pirates lost some key pieces following that run, the hope for Joe Tanis and company was to make yet another push toward the postseason last year. That didn’t come to
fruition however, as Hart struggled to keep pace with the heavy hitters at the top of the conference. Ravenna, North Muskegon and Mason County Central (MCC) all handed Hart losses, with the latter two earning post season appearances. Three conference losses and two additional non-conference defeats (Kent City and Central Montcalm) ended Hart’s season just shy of the desired result. In 2025-26, the Pirates hope to return to their previous form, though they’ll have to do it with yet another group of impactful seniors being ushered out. With all that taken into consideration, here are a few questions that should define Hart’s season. • Will the Pirates continue to run a two-quarterback system with Kolton Rockwell and Halen Boos? • Can Kyle Greiner and Keaghan Monroe continue the success in Hart’s running back room? • Who will step up on defense to fill the shoes of tenacious defenders Hicks, Thomas and Schlukebir?
Hesperia Panthers 2025 record: 2-7 overall, 0-5 WMC Rivers Division Key losses: Blake Sayer, Skyler Stalbaum, Thor Klaus, Ian Fox, Anderson Boes Hesperia’s program went 2-7 in 2024, but it was obvious that the Panthers were playing at a level much higher than in years past. In fact, while two wins isn’t a lot, Hesperia was
within a single possession of winning a pair of additional contests. The Panthers were led last season by a host of talented athletes that had been in the program with Tyler Fehler since he took over. Sayer took over the quarterback position in 2024-25, and performed admirably in an offense that relied on a sharp mind to read the defense. Hesperia’s top three offensive skill players are also gone, with Stalbaum departing from the backfield and Klaus and Fox leaving the receiving corps without a clear leader. Stalbaum and Klaus were also heavy hitters on the defensive side of the ball. Both played linebacker and were credited with the bulk of Hesperia’s tackles last year. Hesperia may be a mystery this season, but these questions are the most pressing for the Panthers. • Who will win the quarterback battle and be tasked with leading Hesperia’s offense? • With Stalbaum gone, will Hesperia continue to rely on the run game? • Can Noah Walker take another step forward and dominate the trenches?
Shelby Tigers 2025 record: 3-6 overall, 1-4 WMC Rivers Division Key losses: David Purdy, Kaden Hallack, Trey Gauthier, AJ Melchor, Griffin Olmstead Shelby’s program has been in a state of rebuild for some time now, but over the last three years the Tigers have shown a lot of promise. In 2022 the Ti-
gers notched their first win since 2017, finishing 2-7 before posting an identical record in 2023. Last season, Shelby jumped to 3-6 overall and showed a ton of fight against teams that previously had their number. That improvement can be evidenced by the Tigers’ loss to rival Hart (30-6) last season. While the score doesn’t indicate a close game, Shelby had the game knotted up with the Pirates through three quarters before things got out of hand. The biggest losses for Shelby come on the offensive side of the ball, with a few players contributing on defense as well. Hallack and Olmstead were two of incoming senior quarterback Isaac Garcia’s favorite pass catchers. David Purdy was a staple of the offensive line in front of Garcia and AJ Melchor along with Trey Gauthier could be depended on consistently. Now, Shelby will have to hope they have the guys available to continue the Tigers’ upward trend. Shelby’s season will revolve around their ability to establish consistency while leaning on playmakers. These defining questions will also add to that. • How will Phil Fortier utilize talented quarterbacks in Garcia and junior Jaylin Henderson? • Will smaller receivers like DayDay Garcia and Elijah Dashiell create separation enough to make plays in the passing game? • Will Shelby continue to rely on the run game with Brody Fessenden taking the bulk of the carries that Melchor once had?
Pictured above are various file photos from the 2024-25 football season. Pictured is Hart’s offensive line (top left), Hart’s Keaghan Monroe (bottom left), Hesperia’s Ian Fox (top center), Hesperia’s Blake Sayer (bottom center), Shelby’s Brody Fessenden (top right) and Shelby’s defense (bottom right). • Brendan Samuels/ECHO
Volume2, 2, Issue37 37 AUGUST 1,2025 2025 THE OCEANA ECHO AUGUST 1, 2025 13 Volume 1, Volume Issue AUGUST
Raised: $62,690 Lead this Legacy REFLECTIONS Reflections OF OUR COMMUNITY Reflections ofour ourTotal community community of community
White Lake Mirror YOUR LOCALLYOWNED OWNEDAND ANDOPERATED OPERATEDNONPROFIT NONPROFIT NEWS SOURCE OPERATED NONPROFIT YOUR LOCALLY OWNED NEWS SOURCE YOUR LOCALLY OPERATED NONPROFIT NEWS SOURCE
Votersto todetermine determine library library millage renewal Voters
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Cruz In In parade parade returns in style Cruz
The Cruz Cruz In In parade parade returned returnedin instyle styleFriday Fridaynight, night,July July25, 25,with with233 233total totalcars carsregistered registered The The Cruz Into parade returned in style Friday night, July 25, with 233 down total cars registered according organizers. Classic carsof ofmany many agesand andcolors colors drove Colby Streetin in according to organizers. Classic cars ages drove down Colby Street according toover organizers. Classicand carsinto of many ages and colors drove downparked Colby Street in Whitehall, the causewqy causewqy Montague before many ofthem them onFerry Ferry Whitehall, over the and into Montague before many of parked on Whitehall, the causewqy into Montague before Streetto tobe beover showed offto tothose thoseand interested inaacloser closer look.many of them parked on Ferry Street showed off interested in look. Street to be showed off to those interested in a closer look. In addition addition to to the the parade, parade, aa burnout burnout lane lane was was created created on on Hanson HansonStreet Streetin inWhitehall, Whitehall, In In addition the parade, was created on Hanson Street in Whitehall, where thosetowho who wanted a toburnout performlane the popular popular practice were permitted permitted to pay pay an an where those wanted to perform the practice were to where thosefee who wanted to joining perform the popular practice were permitted to pay an additional fee todo do sobefore before joiningthe the parade route. additional to so parade route. additional fee to do so before joining the parade route. Fifteenpercent percentof ofproceeds proceedswere weredonated donatedto tothe theMcKee McKeefamily; family;Justin JustinMcKee, McKee,aaWhitehall Whitehall Fifteen Fifteen percent of proceeds donated to the McKee family; Justin McKee, a Whitehall HighSchool School graduate andwere father oftwo two(pictured (pictured below), passed away July5.5. High graduate and father of below), passed away July High School graduate and father of two (pictured below), passed away July 5. Andy Roberts/Mirror Photos ••Andy Roberts/Mirror Photos
• Andy Roberts/Mirror Photos
SummerBook BookTalk Talkseries series to to cap cap season season Wednesday Wednesday Summer
Miles Harvey, Harvey Harvey, author author of of an an briefly briefly controlled controlled one-fourth one-fourth of of MichiMichi- and and Best Best Work Work of of Adult Adult Fiction Fiction from from Harveywill willbe beat atthe theBook BookNook Nookat at Miles Harvey, author of an briefly controlled one-fourth of Michiand Best Work of Adult Fiction from Harvey will be at the Book Nook at award-winning collection of short stogan from his post on Beaver Island. the Society of Midland Authors. 6:30 p.m. for an informal meet-andthe Society of Midland Authors. 6:30 p.m. for an informal meet-andcollection of short sto- gan from his post on Beaver Island. post on Beaver Island. of Midland Authors. p.m. for an informal award-winning collection sto- gan from ries titled “The Registry of Forgotten “The Registry of Objects” This Harvey’s fourth greet. His will begin Registryof ofshort Forgotten “Thehis Registry of Forgotten Forgotten Objects” the Society This marks marks Harvey’s fourth book book 6:30 greet. His presentation presentation willmeet-andbegin at at 77 “The Registry of Forgotten Objects” This Harvey’s fourth book greet. His presentation will begin atto 7 ries titled will “ThebeRegistry of Forgotten Objects” at Nook Harvey’s reputation as his first into short-story p.m. events and open p.m. Both Both events are are free free and open to at the the Book Book Nook and and continues continues Harvey’s reputation as an an and and hismarks first venture venture into short-story Objects” will in be Montague at the BookWednesday, Nook and continues reputation as dean his The firstprolific venture into teaches short-story Both events are free and open to excellent storyteller. Reviewers fiction. writer creeveryone. Java Shop Montague Wednesday, excellent Harvey’s storyteller. Reviewers de- and fiction. The prolific writer teaches cre- p.m. everyone. scribe fictional as ative at in This Aug.Shop 6 to talk Java in about Montague Wednesday, excellent Reviewers de- fiction. The prolific writerUniversity teaches creThisisisthe thelast lastauthor authorvisit visitand andbook book about his his book. book. scribe the thestoryteller. fictionalstories stories as“intricate“intricateative writing writing at DePaul DePaul University in everyone. newest follows ly “wry heartbreaking,” and Chicago and the Department in summer 2025 series Aug. This 6 to talk about publication his book. the fictional as “intricatewriting DePaul in talk is the last author visit andsponbook publication follows scribe ly spun,” spun,” “wry and andstories heartbreaking,” and ative Chicago andatchairs chairs theUniversity Department talkThis in the the summer 2025 series sponHarvey’s heralded book King beautiful.” The was of He isisalso editor sored Friends of Montague This newest publication spun,” “wry and heartbreaking,” and Department inby thethe summer series sponheralded book “The “Thefollows King of of ly“astonishingly “astonishingly beautiful.” Thebook bookand was Chicago of English. English. Hechairs alsoathe afounding founding editor talk sored by the Friends2025 of the the Montague Confidence,” a true story about James awarded Journal Non/Fiction of Big Books, an Library, the Harvey’s heralded book “The King of “astonishingly beautiful.” The book was of He is also a founding editor sored by in the Friends of with the true story about James awarded the the 2023 2023 Journal Non/Fiction ofEnglish. Big Shoulders Shoulders Books, an innovative, innovative, Library, in partnership partnership withMontague the Book Book Strang, the aself-proclaimed king who Prize University Press nonprofit, social-justice publisher. Nook Shop. Confidence,” true story about James theOhio 2023 State Journal Non/Fiction Big Shoulders Books, an innovative, Library, inJava partnership self-proclaimed king who awarded Prize from from Ohio State University Press of nonprofit, social-justice publisher. Nookand and Java Shop. with the Book Nook and Java Shop. Strang, the self-proclaimed king who Prize from Ohio State University Press nonprofit, social-justice publisher.
2 AUGUST LAKE MIRROR 14 AUGUST1,1,2025 2025 THE THEWHITE OCEANA ECHO
Magic Bus brings high energy to summer concert series
Magic Bus traditionally brings one of the biggest crowds of the year to the Arts Council of White Lake-Nuveen Center's, and Tuesday night's concert was no exception. The band, which describes itself as "a psychedelic rock tribute to Woodstock," specializes in hit songs of the 1960s. As is common in the band's performances, excited members of the crowd got up and danced on a makeshift dance floor in front of the stage.
• Andy Roberts/Mirror Photos
Whitehall Twp. tables discussion of zoning fee revisions By Madison Lajewski White Lake Mirror Writer WHITEHALL — The Whitehall Township board discussed revising zoning fees during their meeting on Monday. The group did not reach a decision and decided to table the topic
until it meets again in August. Township supervisor Dennis Kroll said these fees will affect multiple projects that have already been approved. Trustee Chuck Schmitigal voiced his frustration about the numerous abandoned vehicles throughout the township. This was addressed at pre-
vious meetings, but it appears they have not all been handled. The township had hired a recent retiree to be in charge of this, but the past few weeks he has been on a “well deserved hiatus.” He is expected to return within the couple of weeks and will continue targeting the abandoned vehicles issue.
Regular users of the township pickleball courts requested they put up a “hitting wall.” This would allow solo users to practice hitting without needing an opponent. The township approved their request.
Fruitland Twp. board moving forward with traffic study By Claire Marshall White Lake Mirror Writer WHITEHALL — The Fruitland Township board plans to move forward with an independent traffic study of the intersection of Whitehall and Riley Thompson roads, it said at the Monday, July 21 board meeting. The intersection has been an area of concern for many residents, especially during the summer when the nearby Michigan’s Adventure theme park is in operation. After meeting with the Muskegon County Road Commission and receiving no quote for a study, supervisor Jeff Marcinkowski is not confident the commission will conduct its own traffic study in an acceptable amount of time or with the thoroughness an independent study could, especially after speaking with a traffic engineer. The township now plans to contact Six Flags Entertainment Corporation, the owners of Michigan’s Adventure, to gauge interest in splitting the cost of the traffic study, as the theme park’s management shares the township's concern over safety. Along with recommending an indepen-
dent traffic study, the engineer who spoke with Marcinkowski also considered a roundabout as an alternative to a stoplight, saying it would address all the same concerns: Forcing drivers to slow down, eliminating the existing blind spots, and disallowing onloading and offloading of children at the intersection to avoid parking fees. The board was amenable to this alternative, should it prove beneficial. In addressing unfinished business, the board decided on a replacement building for
the transfer station office. The current building will be removed and its replacement, a 10 feet by 10 feet insulated container building provided by BLOX, will be placed at the entrance of the transfer station. The board will now decide what to do with the old building and will determine how it will provide electricity to the BLOX container. The move is projected to be complete before winter. As for the search for land to construct a future community center, the Parks and Recreation department received the
board’s letter requesting a parcel of land from Nestrom Road Park to the township, which they denied. Marcinkowski has been searching for other suitable parcels of land, and provided one option to the board, but further discussion will happen at a later date once it is determined how large the land should be to comply with township building ordinances. Also for Nestrom Park, the DNR Passport grant, which would enable new parking and accessible pathway construction to be con-
structed concurrently, announces its allocation decisions in December. Because of this, the accessible pathways and parking projects will both be pushed back to 2026, presuming the township lands the grant. Marcinkowski, who discussed improving the audio visual capabalities of the town hall at the June meeting, proposed the board “earmark potential deposits above projected expectations of interest on accounts” to the future installation of new A/V equipment. The board appeared skeptical
the equipment would be used enough to justify the expense, and the idea was tabled. Township clerk Alexa Steffes worried about the extra work that would go into teaching potential users how to work the equipment and whether anyone would continue using it after the current council’s terms expire. Christopher VanOosterhout also questioned the necessity of such a move, but said he was open to considering it if a need becomes clear.
SEALED BID NOTICE CITY OF MONTAGUE
For Sale: 2016 Utility Police Interceptor AWD approximately 135,500 miles. Vehicle can be viewed at the City of Montague DPW Garage 4976 Bowen St. Montague, MI 49437 Minimum bid is $3,000. Bid will be awarded to the highest bidder. Submission Deadline: Sealed Bids must be dropped off by 11:00 AM on August 18, 2025 to Montague City Hall 8778 Ferry St. Montague, MI 49437. Envelope must be sealed and marked as “Bid for 2016 Interceptor” Contact: Melissa Beegle by telephone at 231-332-6756 or email finance@ cityofmontague.org with questions or for more information. Bid opening will be at 11:30 AM on August 18, 2025
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THE WHITE LAKE MIRROR AUGUST1, 1,2025 2025 15 3 THE OCEANA ECHO AUGUST
Community Calendar Saturday, Aug. 2 Dave Burel performs @ White Lake Eagles, 6 p.m. Velvet Mushroom Syndicate performs @ Red Rooster Tavern, 8 p.m. Fruitland Twp. Park hosts a free outdoor movie night at sunset. The movie Grease will be shown, and free popcorn and drinks will be provided. Sunday, Aug. 3 Steve Thielman performs @ Book Nook & Java Shop, 10 a.m. to noon. Monday, Aug. 4 Maciek the Magician performs @ Montague Bandshell, 10:30 a.m. A high-energy show provided by MADL Montague. August's STEM Summer activity @ MADL Montague, 2 p.m. Each month
features a mystery topic. Registration required at madl.org/calendar. Live trivia @ Red Rooster Tavern, 7 p.m. FAN Club Mondays @ Fetch Brewing, 7 p.m. Live music on the North Mears Promenade. Tuesday, Aug. 5 Steve Thielman performs @ Book Nook & Java Shop, 10 a.m. to noon. Playtime Power Hour @ MADL Montague, 11:15 a.m. Designed for children age 0-5 and their families, exploring different play stations will focus on developing ready-to-read skills. Registration required at madl. org/calendar. Pretty Fun trivia @ Book Nook & Java Shop, 6:15 p.m.
ACWL-Nuveen Free Summer Concert Series continues its 2025 season with Brena, 7 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 6 Free Will Workshop @ MADL Montague, 6 p.m. Provided by the Community Foundation of Muskegon County, get assistance putting together a will using Free Will software. Light refreshments served. Registration required at madl.org/calendar. Friends of the Montague Libary's Summer Book Talk series continues with Miles Harvey @ Book Nook & Java Shop, 6:30 p.m. Harvey will discuss his book The Registry of Forgotten Objects. Meet and greet at 6:30, program at 7. The Oat Bran Boys perform @
North Grove Brewers, 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 7 White Lake Community Picnic @ Goodrich Park, 5 p.m. Fundraising opportunities available for the Hope Squads of Montague and Whitehall high schools. Sea Shanty Sing-along with Ben Traverse @ White Lake Community Library, 5:30 p.m. Join in communal singing of old sailor classics. Registration at wlclib.org. Live trivia @ Pub One Eleven, 7 p.m. Nomads perform @ North Grove Brewers, 7 p.m. Friday, Aug. 8 Kindred performs @ Pub One Eleven, 8 p.m.
Echoes of History: History Armistice Day storm claims ships (Pt. 2) By Barbara Bedau Brow Volunteer Contributor The Novadoc, a 253-foot steel freighter, was built in 1928 at Wallsend-on-Tyne, Great Britain by Swan, Hunter & Wigham Richardson, Ltd. When she was lost, she was owned by Peterson Steamships, Ltd. of Fort William, Ontario, Canada. Bound from Chicago to Port Alfred, Quebec, Canada, Captain Donald Steip stayed close to the eastern shore of Lake Michigan since the wind was southeast. But the wind shifted to the southwest and began to increase dramatically. As the captain was attempting to turn the huge freighter into the wind, it became trapped in the trough of the sea and began to roll. Waves began to wash over her decks as the crew peered out toward shore, barely able to make out the Little Sable Lighthouse. Wallowing in the waves, her pilothouse windows were smashed out and she began taking on water. About 7 p.m. that evening, the Novadoc ran aground on the sandbars at Juniper Beach near Pentwater, breaking in two. Waves continued to pound the ship and soak the crew. Most of the crew spent the night huddled in the forward captain’s cabin and office while another group was trapped near the stern. At daybreak it was noticed the lifeboats had been washed away. About this time the vessel was spotted by those on shore and a crowd of hundreds gathered over the next few hours. The vessel was between 500-700 feet offshore but could not be reached by boat or line. On board the vessel, the crew began burning furniture to stay warm while day turned into night. The
The Novadoc was one of the three ships to go down amid the infamous Nov. 11, 1940 Armistice Day storms. Artifacts from the ship are on display at the Pentwater Historical Society Museum, commemorating the ship's final ressting place.
• Courtesy Photo
next morning, the captain ventured to the aft end of the boat to see who remained. It was discovered that two men – the vessel’s cooks – had been washed overboard. During this whole ordeal, the U.S. Coast Guard refused to come to the aid of the stricken vessel due to the severity of the storm. Finally, after 36 hours of waiting, a little fishing boat called The Three Brothers, manned by Captain Clyde Cross, Gustav Fisher
and Joe Fountain, decided to take matters into their own hands. Cross steered the little fishing tug as close to the stranded ship as possible, rigged up a breeches buoy and was able to rescue the crew of 17 men. The bell from the Novadoc has since been retrieved from the ship and presented to the Pentwater Historical Society in memory of Capt. Cross and his crew for their heroism. It can be seen at the Pentwater Historical Society Museum along with other items from the Novadoc.
Library will host another blood drive Aug. 6 By Virginia DeMumbrum Volunteer Contributor Join Great Lakes-based shantyman Ben Traverse for a rousing sea shanty singalong at the library Aug. 7 at 5:30 p.m.! Whether you're a seasoned sailor or a curious landlubber, this centuries-old tradition of communal singing will have you belting out classics like Roll the Old Chariot and Haul Away Joe in no time — no experience necessary and all ages welcome. In this program, listeners DeMumbrum will participate in a journey across both the high seas and the Great Lakes, learning about the roles shanties played on the ship and the cultural seeds that sprouted into this mar-
itime tradition. Register your whole crew at wlclib.org/calendar and come sing with us! Thank you to the Friends of the White Lake Community Library for funding this event, and for all their support throughout the year. FUN FACT: There are currently 44 members of the Friends of White Lake Community Library group. The Friends members are people dedicated to helping the library carry out its mission through volunteer work, fundraising, and advocacy. If you would like to support the library by becoming a Friend, stop by the library for a membership form or print one from the website at wlclib.org/ friends-of-the-library. We’re always happy to have more Friends! Stock Up on Beach Reads at the Book Sale The next library book sale is set for Saturday, Aug. 9, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., and it’s a wonderful opportunity to pick up some great books at
great prices. You’ll find beach reads, gardening books, cookbooks, recent bestsellers, history books, biographies, and more, all priced at $1 for paperbacks and $2 for hardcovers. Better yet, fill a whole grocery bag for $5! Children’s books are half the price of adult books, and there’s a huge selection of jigsaw puzzles for only $2 each. Come early for the best selection! Or for a sneak peek, come help the Friends set up the sale Friday afternoon, Aug. 8. Volunteer sign-up sheets are available at the library. Save a Life by Donating Blood Aug. 6 It’s not too late to schedule a blood donation appointment at the library, and get a pickleball set while you’re at it! We are hosting our second blood drive Wednesday, Aug. 6, from 2:306:30 p.m., and there are still some appointment times available. If you’re an eligible donor and would like to help save lives in our community, please consider signing up to donate blood
The
Bookworm
Bulletin
right here in the library meeting room. In addition to the usual cookies and other post-donation treats, donors at this drive can also receive a free pickleball set (while supplies last) as a thank-you for helping “smash the need” for blood here in West Michigan. Appointments are preferred, but walk-ins are welcome as the schedule allows. To schedule a donation, just call 866-642-5663 or visit bit.ly/wlclblood.
community 16 AUGUST1, 1,2025 2025 THE THEWHITE OCEANA ECHO 4 AUGUST LAKE MIRROR
e Mirror
SPORTS WHITEHALL • MONTAGUE • REETHS - PUFFER
A blast of color lights up the White Lake summer NONPROFIT NEWS SOURCE RunIt 5K's 2nd color run sees even more sign-ups By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor WHITEHALL — The RunIt 5K continued to grow this year, with a rise from 421 sign-ups a year ago to 513. Of those, 461 were listed as finishers at the race timers' website, adventuresignup.com. Among those speaking prior to the race was Bridget Knapp. Knapp is the mom of Ava Vanderstelt, who is honored at the 5K each year and in whose memory Hope Squad chapters sprang up in Whitehall and Montague over the past few years, funded in part by proceeds from this annual race. And the impact being made in her name is beginning to extend beyond the White Lake area. White Lake fire chief Pete McCarthy announced during the pre-race festivities that Ava Vanderstelt scholarship
RunIt 5K Participants in Saturday's RunIt 5K fling colored dust into the air in celebration prior to the race. It was the second year
continued on page 5
of the color run addition to the event, which raises money for local Hope Squad chapters in memory of Ava Vanderstelt.
• Andy Roberts/Mirror
An already well-colored Ian Dennis receives a blast of yellow and pink dust late in Saturday's RunIt 5K. The race began and ended at the White Lake Chamber & Visitor's Bureau building. • Andy Roberts/Mirror
A young volunteer gets excited to make himself part of the color explosion during Saturday's RunIt 5K. Volunteers lined the route of the race, launching color dust at runners who asked to participate. • Andy Roberts/Mirror
McCarthy returns home to coach Whitehall soccer By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor When Whitehall boys soccer's coaching job came open, the Vikings had the luxury of a qualified candidate with firsthand knowledge of the program. Dillon McCarthy, a former player who was in the lineup when the Vikings advanced to the 2008 state championship game, has several years of head coaching experience, and he's motivated to get the program back to that level. McCarthy returns to Whitehall after most recently coaching Jenison. There, he led the Wildcats to last year's district final. He also previously coached the Reeths-Puffer Rocket girls, but despite the opportunities at larger schools, he never ruled out a return to his alma mater. The timetable for his return accelerated when McCarthy met his fiancee, Janelle, who's also from Whitehall. Both were interested in a return home, and Whitehall athletic director Christian Subdon contacted McCarthy when the job came open. "He had to win over everyone else," Subdon said. "My wife (Sarah) and him graduated together and were good friends, so I've known him for a while, but he was head and shoulders the best
person in the interview." For McCarthy, it'll have to start with building up the team's participation. He said as of now, numbers are in the low 20s, which would make it difficult to McCarthy have both a varsity and a JV team. "It's exciting to have an opportunity to rebuild and get our numbers back up," McCarthy said. "I think my being in the building in the high school will help with that. I think we can build a supportive culture...That's the plan, is to grow and get numbers up. We have a dedicated senior group and a bigger freshman group that plays soccer. I'm optimistic for the future if we can keep after the kids in the middle school program to keep playing soccer." McCarthy's presence in the building will come from his recent hire as a behavioral interventionist at the high school. There, he'll work with at-risk students to provide needed support. McCarthy previously taught government and economics at Jenison, and he said leaving the classroom will be
an adjustment, but a potentially rewarding one. "I loved being in the classroom and teaching," McCarthy said. "I also know some of the most rewarding moments were connecting with students that maybe had behavioral issues. With this new title, I'll work closely with students that really need that targeted intervention and special support. I'm excited to see what this new role brings." Working with McCarthy will be fellow former Vikings Daniel DuBois and Matthew Ferguson; McCarthy played with both their brothers in high school. Kevin Reid will continue his valuable work at the middle school level, McCarthy added. "That's a testament to how a program's culture can leave a legacy," McCarthy said. "I think this program is something a lot of alumni want to be around. I love that they're willing to help when they can." The new coach will surely also have the option of fielding occasional advice from Bryan Mahan, who coached all four as players. McCarthy said he remained in contact with Mahan throughout the latter's coaching career before he retired after the 2022 season and considers him a friend. "He's a great resource," McCarthy
said of Mahan. "He's the reason I love soccer. I didn't even know what the state finals were as a freshman and I got to start in one. By senior year, it was clear he's a prime example of, if you show up and you get kids to show up, success can come." That's exactly how McCarthy is hoping to build a base for Whitehall starting this fall. The team has three seniors, and a scrimmage this week against Reeths-Puffer, which McCarthy said has 13 seniors, was a great way to set the bar for what the Vikes hope to be. "It was a great opportunity, and it opened the eyes of some freshmen that that's the varsity pace," McCarthy said. "I think we can take steps forward this year." Taking the long view isn't always easy at the high school level, but it helps that teams don't have to qualify to make the postseason. Whitehall will have the luxury of trying to build for October and a district that will include several West Michigan Conference foes, including rival Montague, which won the district last fall. "It's about creating better habits, showing up, building consistency and getting 1% better each day and finding their role," McCarthy said.
17 AUGUST 1, 2025 THE OCEANA ECHO
THE WHITE LAKE MIRROR AUGUST 1, 2025 5
Sun & Soil pitches financial gain for use of renewables
Landowners told about federal monly used to provide light to large areas both inprograms, potential upgrades doors and outdoors, as an example of an older style of light that "burns up energy." Light-emitting diode that could yield savings (LED) bulbs, he said, would provide a big improveBy Andy Roberts
White Lake Mirror Editor MONTAGUE — Local landowners received information about harnessing renewable energy to gain financial and environmental benefit during a Muskegon Conservation District event last Wednesday, July 23, at Home & Gather in Montague. Kelly Bishop, a conservationist for the Natural Resource Conservation Service, and Duane Watson, who works in renewable energy for GeoSmart LLC, were presenters at the event. Watson joked about humanity's "obsession with burning things" to create energy. Among the most vivid examples he used of renewable energy was electric cars versus fuel combustion. According to several sources, only up to 30%, and often less, of the fuel used in gas-powered cars goes towards the car's movement, while the U.S. Department of Energy reports that close to 90% of energy used by an electric car goes toward its movement. Another potential energy-efficient upgrade for homes and farms alike is the use of geothermal heat pumps, which Watson said use about 20% of the power of electric space heaters. Watson isn't just a professional user of renewable energy, but a personal one as well, saying his family has two electric cars and rooftop solar energy, the latter of which powers the two cars. "You can't beat free fuel," Watson said. Of course, not everyone can afford electric cars or geothermal pumps to install rooftop solar energy - especially, as Watson noted, with many renewable energy tax credits set to expire at the end of the year. However, that doesn't mean there's nothing to be done for those less wealthy among us to improve energy efficiency. Watson brought out a mercury vapor light, com-
ment over those lights. Another benefit of LED bulbs is that they produce less heat than inefficient ones, which doesn't just boost efficiency but is safer for human hands. West Michigan happens, Watson said, to be the site of "the biggest battery in the Midwest" - the Ludington Pumped Storage Plant, a hydroelectric plant. According to a 2022 Detroit News article, the plant produces and holds large amounts of energy that can be deployed when it's needed on the power grid. Due to prohibitive up-front costs, the plant hasn't yet been replicated in this region, but Watson believes areas like that are "the future, hopefully; a wholly smart grid" that can deploy energy when it's needed and reduce waste. The future is on its way; Ember, a nonprofit think tank that specializes in clean energy, reported earlier this year that this March was the first month in history in which over half of American electricity was generated by renewable energy. Bishop, a conservationist for the Natural Resource Conservation Services, also spoke about renewable energy. Her aim was to show landowners potential ways to sign up for financial assistance for those willing to implement conservation-focused changes to their land, particularly farms, through programs enacted by the 2018 Farm Bill. The Farm Bill is a major federal bill that is periodically reauthorized; the 2018 bill was set to expire in 2023 and has twice been extended since. Among the practices the NRCS can help fund are seasonal high tunnels, which extend the growing season; pollinator plantings, which can boost plant life in the area; and windbreaks - rows of trees that can guard against wind and prevent soil from being scattered. According to Bishop, the NRCS can provide
Duane Watson of GeoSmart LLC discussed humanity's "obsession with burning things" and used this wooden log as a visual aid during last Wednesday's Sun & Soil event at Home & Gather in Montague.
• Andy Roberts/Mirror
cost-sharing to cover the majority of projects like these if eligible. Veterans or new farmers could get even more assistance. Information on these programs is available at nrcs.usda.gov/getstarted. Bishop also spoke about the Conservation Stewardship Program, which she said "rewards producers that have done a good job with protecting the natural resources." That program differs from the assistance program in that farmers can receive cash payments - Bishop said they start at about $4,000 per year but must open the program to all of their land, as opposed to targeted portions of it in the assistance program.
DNR releases weekly fishing report Here is this week's fishing report provided by the Michigan DNR. Muskegon - Salmon action was good for boat anglers. The best action was 60 to 100 feet down in 100 to 160 feet of water. A mix of glow plugs, glow spoons, green rotator/fly combinations, and meat rigs all worked well.
RunIt 5K
Pier anglers caught a few freshwater drum on casting spoons. Grand Haven - Boat anglers found good numbers of salmon in 100 to 160 feet of water. Glow plugs, meat rigs, and rotator/fly combinations worked best 50 to 90 feet down. Pier anglers caught a fair number of bass on drop
shot rigs and live bait. Ludington - Chinook salmon were caught at Big Sable Point and north of the point in 115 to 140 feet of water when fishing 40 to 80 feet down, and off the projects in 120 to 160 feet of water, but it was hit or miss. A few steelhead and a couple of coho salmon were
brought in as well. Spoon and flasher fly bites were good, but a few plugs and meat rigs also took fish. A few smallmouth bass were caught in the harbor off the piers while using live bait.
continued from page 4
monies have grown to such a degree that Hope Squad chapters are being planned in surrounding school districts as well. Jenna Sorensen of White Lake Nutrition, which plays a big part in running each year's RunIt 5K, said a specific district has not yet been picked, but that funds are being set aside for whichever district near the White Lake area chooses to launch a chapter. Local counselors' feedback and mental health statistics from districts in Muskegon and Oceana County led to the decision to spread the message of Hope Squad even further. The race saw a big spike in sign-ups last year when a color run was added to the event, another way to pay tribute to Vanderstelt. The bright colors spread all over the White Lake Chamber & Visitor's Bureau parking lot - and, once the race got underway, upon many of the runners themselves - were a way to showcase the positive atmosphere the race aims to bring. The now traditional pre-race color cloud that was thrown in the air above the assembled gaggle of runners took place at a pre-selected moment during the song "Best Day of My Life" by the American Authors, which was Vander-
Runner Lukas Palmer receives a blast of pink color dust as he approaches the finish line late in Saturday's RunIt 5K. The color run raises money for local Hope Squad chapters. • Andy Roberts/Mirror Runners take off from the starting line at Saturday's RunIt 5K in Whitehall and Montague. stelt's favorite tune. Throughout the The field of runners included several current, former and future Whitehall and Montague race route, volunteers gathered to athletes. • Andy Roberts/Mirror
provide periodic douses of color dust to those who chose to receive it, with some runners enthusiastically signaling to let them have it. "It really contributes to mental health being the whole theme of it," Sorensen said. "It gives it a more hopeful feel, which is really what we are trying to do." Sorensen added that she heard nothing but positive feedback from participants in the race and that it has quickly grown into something community members are excited to make part of their summer schedule. "It's becoming something the com-
munity is fully supporting. It's becoming a tradition," Sorensen said. "I had some customers mention that it's something everybody gathers for in the summer. Our community is rallying behind mental health for students, and we're hoping to make it bigger every year." Many current and former area athletes ran in the race, and former Whitehall Viking runner Andre Richmond earned the top spot with a time of 15:03.6, a full 43 seconds faster than last year's winning time by his old teammate Carter McIlroy, who finished fifth this year. Current Viking
Bobby Jazwinski was second, followed by Cooper Trout of Indianapolis and Whitehall Class of 2025 runner Stewart Waters. Kayce Rypma of Grand Rapids was the top finishing female runner and finished eighth overall with a time of 18:52.1, and Whitehall cross-country and girls track coach Jeff Bassett was the best finisher north of age 30 for the second year in a row, placing 11th overall. Former Montague athlete Owen Raeth and incoming Whitehall freshman athlete Ian Dennis were also part of the top 10.
6 AUGUST 1, 2025 THE WHITE LAKE MIRROR
THE OCEANA ECHO AUGUST 1, 2025 18
Recent police activity (July 18-23) Behind the
Badge Whitehall Police Report July 18 At 4:49 p.m. on-duty staff was called to the Whitehall Police Department for a custody interference complaint. The reporting party, the grandmother of the involved child, stated the father had informed her he was not going to allow the child to go with the grandmother because the child’s mother was allegedly staying in an unsafe environment. Officers talked with the parties involved and advised them a report would be filed to document the incident. The involved parties then cleared from the area. July 19 Officers were on regular patrol when at 7:59 a.m. they were contacted regarding an abandoned bicycle in the 100 block of S. Lake St. The involved officer located the bicycle and noted the bike belonged to the White Lake bike sharing program out of Montague. After verifying ownership of the involved bicycle, it was returned to the City of Montague. While on patrol on S. Division St.
at 2:15 p.m. an officer located an ordinance violation in the 300 block of Division St. The officer contacted the homeowner and advised them of the violation and what corrective action needed to be taken. The officer then cleared from the scene. At 8:19 p.m. a Whitehall police officer was dispatched to the 400 block of S. Mears Ave. for a threats complaint. The two involved male subjects, who reside in the same home at the involved location, stated each were threatening one another. Both parties were spoken to and denied threatening one another. Officer directed the parties to stay separated and staff at the home advised they would continue the monitor the situation. An on-duty officer was contacted at 8:37 p.m. by Muskegon Central Dispatch regarding a larceny complaint. The complainant, who resides in the 200 block of S. Covell St., stated someone had stolen his trash receptacle and his friend had read an earlier report in the local paper that Whitehall police staff had recovered one. He added that he was calling to make sure the recovered trash can was not his. The recovered can did not belong to the reporting party and had already been returned to its rightful owner. July 20 While on regular patrol, an on-duty officer was flagged down by a reporting party who had located a driver’s license at Covell Park. The on-duty officer used his investigative skills and located a telephone number for the mother of the ID owner. In speaking
with the mother of the ID owner, it was learned the ID owner was currently kayaking on the White River and once he was done battling the rapids north of Whitehall, he would contact the officer to recover his ID. At 5 p.m. the ID owner was located in the parking lot of Covell Park and his ID was returned. July 21 The detective sergeant for the police department was contacted at 1:54 p.m. regarding a larceny report involving the theft of medication from an elderly victim. This victim, who resided in the 200 block of Hall St., had suspicions someone had been entering her apartment and stealing medications. Through surveillance tools, a suspect was observed inside the victim’s apartment when she was not home. After identifying the suspect, a 73-year-old female from Whitehall, her police history was reviewed and it was learned she had a prior arrest for medication theft in her past. Additional follow-up to be conducted. At 9:05 p.m. on-duty staff was contacted regarding a suspicious occurrence in the 900 block of Colby St. A business owner in the area had located two wheelchairs tied together, along with a shop vacuum, and a sled that had been left behind their business. The items were removed from the business and disposed of at the city DPW. Officers were contacted at 10:27 p.m. by Muskegon Central Dispatch regarding a domestic assault incident occurring at a residence in the 100 block of E. Johannah St. Upon arrival to the location, the officer contacted
the victim, a 35-year-old female from Whitehall, who advised that her fiancé, a 61-year-old male from Whitehall, had thrown a coffee cup at her and had splashed her with cold morning coffee. The male half was also contacted and admitted to the coffee contacting the female but stated he did not think that was an assault. The involved officer photographed the dark coffee stains observed on the victim’s shirt. Warrant paperwork was submitted to the prosecutor’s office for review of Domestic Assault charges. July 22 On-duty staff was contacted by dispatch at 1:39 p.m. to respond to the 8000 block of Cook St. to assist Montague police staff with an out of control juvenile subject. Once on the scene, officers restrained the out of control juvenile until medical staff arrived. Officers then cleared. July 23 Officers were contacted by Whitehall DPW staff at 10:51 a.m. regarding a suspicious vehicle incident. Whitehall DPW staff advised that they had located a vehicle in the city parking lot south of the 100 block of W. Colby St. with four flat tires and no license plate. Once advised of the incident, the officer involved investigated the matter and was able to determine the owner of the involved vehicle, a 31-year-old man formerly from Montague Township, had just moved into town. Contact was to be made with the owner to advise him that the junk vehicle violation needed to be corrected. Follow-up will be conducted.
Back-to-school backpack giveaway White Lake Bike Program offers at Lebanon Lutheran Aug. 13 bike borrowing, seeks donations Believe it or not, the 2025-26 school year is fast approaching. If your child is in need of a backpack for the coming year, Lebanon Lutheran Church is hosting a backpack giveaway Wednesday, Aug. 13 from 5-7 p.m. Backpacks and water bottles will be given away to K-12 students, and local
organizations are welcomed to set up booths to promote their services as well. The evening will also include a free supper provided to local families. All are welcome. Students must be present to receive a backpack.
WLACAC event planned with West Michigan sustainability author The White Lake Area Climate Action Council will host an event Wednesday, Aug. 20 with Dan Broersma, author of the book Practical Sustainability. The event will take place at the Book Nook & Java Shop from 6-7 p.m. Broersma will share his thoughts and his journey working in sustainable energy. He has worked at Miller Knoll
(previously Herman Miller), Goodwill of West Michigan and as the City of Holland's first sustainability manager. With over 25 years of experience in the field, Broersma has faced many challenges and worked to build an approach to sustainability within organizations that he believes can translate to many others.
The White Lake Bike Program, which provides bicycles available to borrow for free in the White Lake area, is in need of bikes and encourages all who can to donate. Those who have a bicycle to donate may do so at the bike rack in front of the Montague branch of the Muskegon Area District Library. All sizes and styles are welcome. The program is sponsored by the City of Montague, Montague Police Department, the Montague Downtown
Development Authority and the White Lake Area Climate Action Council. To use a bike, simply go to one of the designated racks throughout Montague. Once done with the bike, return it to one of the racks. All racks designated for the program will have a sign identifying it. If you discover an abandoned White Lake program bicycle or know of one that needs repair, contact the city at info@cityofmontague.org or by calling 231-332-6758.
Maciek the Magician to perform Maciek the Magician will be in Montague Monday to perform his high-energy act at the Montague Bandshell at 10:30 a.m. The act was originally scheduled to take place in June but was postponed. Maciek, Polish by birth but based
in West Michigan, has been performing for over 20 years. In 2003 he was the winner of an episode of the AMC reality series Showville when it visited Holland. The performance is free to all to attend.
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