The Oceana Echo - Volume 3, Issue 14, August 29, 2025
Pentwater Township Library hosts 'Microplastics and the Great Lakes' presentation
By AnnaMae Bush
The Oceana Echo Community Correspondent
On Monday, August 18, the Pentwater Township Library invited the public to a presentation on “Microplastics and the Great Lakes” by Art Hirsch. A native of Muskegon, Hirsch is a retired professor and environmental engineer who graduated from Michigan State University and the University of Colorado. Busy year-round as an advocate for fewer plastics in the environment, he spends his summers in the Pentwater area and he welcomed the opportunity to speak locally.
”I’m here to entertain you and to educate you,” he told the audience. He carried the interest of the standing-room-only crowd so that they stretched his scheduled 45-minute time slot past the 75-minute mark.
“Every year 22 million pounds of plastic enter the Great Lakes, especially Lake Michigan. Plastic is a real risk, not a potential risk,” he asserted. “It is found in people and in animals. Plastic is not biodegradable, and recycling will not solve our problem. Plastic simply breaks down into smaller pieces for its next life. Microplastics are 3/16-inch-sized (or less)
pieces of plastic, and nanoplastics are smaller yet pieces resulting from the breakdown of microplastics.”
Autopsies of Great Lakes fish clarify the damage. The fish see the microplastics in the water and think that it’s food. They eat it and feel full because it does not digest easily, which keeps them from eating more. Without the nutrition they need, the fish starve to death. A similar story is true with birds.
Microplastics are also found in human beings. Hirsch reported, “It is estimated that humans ingest 0.1 to a maximum of 5 grams of plastic weekly. Five grams would be the equivalent of a credit card. Research has shown that plastics have a negative impact on multiple systems: the endocrine, the cardiovascular, the immune and the reproductive systems and the brain.” He said that it is contacted through the skin (clothing and cosmetics), by inhalation and by ingestion from water and food. It is important to be aware of how many products one uses regularly that contribute to the risks associated with plastics and the challenge of managing plastic waste, Hirsch asserted. “One-time use plastic
products are the worst problem because they are immediately discarded.”
Other culprits include manufacturing chemicals, abrasives in cleaning products, paint, cigarette filters, construction trades (the mantra “vinyl is final” is true in more ways than one), in the packaging of products such as dishwasher tabs and laundry soap pods, and in the wrapping of produce at the grocery store.
How does plastic find its way into the environment? One-time-use plastics, film and styrofoam are obvious ways, but other ways are subtle, he explained, and then
gave numerous examples. Motor vehicles have microplastics in their tires, and the friction caused by contact with the road surface sends microplastic material into the air or into water runoff. The spin cycles of laundry machines cause the release of microplastics in synthetic textiles, of which fleece is most guilty - witnessed by the lint collected. Wastewater treatment plants create a sludge with materials filtered out of the water, which is often
used as fertilizer for agricultural purposes, allowing it to re-enter the environment.
Every attempt to recycle plastic gives it new life elsewhere. Even in landfills where efforts are made to keep waste from entering the soil, nothing offers a foolproof guarantee against seepage through any protective coverings, Hirsch said.
”Enough with the doom and gloom,” Hirsch said after presenting the aforementioned information. “What can we do about it?”
Personally, he said that people can avoid drinking beverages from plastic bottles or heating food in plastic containers in the microwave; take groceries home in paper, fabric or reusable bags; wear clothing made from natural textiles like cotton or wool instead of synthetic textiles; use detergents in powder or liquid form instead of in plastic pods; and read labels on food and other purchases to avoid plastic additives.
Locally, people can install rain gardens and landscape buffers around water sources to help create clean drinking water.
One can also look into supporting efforts to develop filters for washing machines and for motor vehicles to capture microplastics.
“Unfortunately, the state of Michigan has done nothing to alter the situation. Several proposed laws in the last couple years have been defeated in Lansing,” Hirsch said. “But there are some encouraging movements in other states. California is the primary leader, but Wisconsin, Illinois and New York are also actively working on the problem. Colorado has actually passed legislation to eliminate one-time-use plastics completely and given companies three years to comply. The only federal law to impact the situation was in 2015, when controls were established on cosmetic products that were exfoliants.”
He did share one encouraging word about Michigan. “A $2 million grant was given to EGLE to start monitoring surface and drinking water.”
Please visit the Pentwater Township Library for more information about this presentation.
Notice of Public Hearing on Increasing Property Taxes
5:30 PM - PIG ROAST DINNER IN THE BEER TENT $15 per person
9:00 PM - RODEO AFTER PARTY | LIVE MUSIC & FIREWORKS At Shooters Saloon in the Back 40, featuring country rock band Backwoods Express, cash bar, yard games, and FIREWORKS!!! TICKETS
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Claybanks Township Planning Commission, Oceana County, will conduct a public hearing meeting on Tuesday, September 16, 2025, at 7:00 pm at the Claybanks United Methodist Church, located at 9197 S. 56th Ave. Montague, MI, 49437. The purpose of this Public Hearing is to obtain comments and input from the public regarding the updated Master Plan for Claybanks Township, Oceana County, MI. A copy of the proposed Master Plan may be viewed at the Township website: www.claybankstownship. org or may be viewed in person at the Shelby Library, during regular business hours.
As an alternative, written comments may also be submitted to the Township Clerk by US Postal mail at 7577 W Cleveland Rd., New Era, MI 49446 or zoning@claybankstownship.org.
The Board of Trustees of the HART TOWNSHIP will hold a public hearing on a proposed increase of 0.0000 mills in the operating tax millage rate to be levied on property in 2025.
The hearing will be held on Wednesday, September 10, 2025 at 6:45 PM at the Hart Township Hall, 3437 W. Polk Rd., Hart, MI 49420.
The date and location of the meeting to take action on the proposed additional millage will announced at this public meeting.
If adopted, the proposed additional millage will increase operating revenues from ad valorem property taxes 0.00% 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 -4.82% 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: HART TOWNSHIP 3437 W. Polk Road Hart, MI 49420 (231) 873-2734
Art Hirsch • Contributed Photo
Reclaiming resilient Michigan streams: over 140 miles of streams reconnected so far in grant project
By Kesiree O’Brien Michigan Department of Natural Resources
The Michigan Department of Natural Resources, with help from many conservation partners, is halfway through completion of a $5 million grant project to remove 27 stream barriers, including 16 DNR-managed dams. Efforts to date have reconnected more than 140 miles of streams.
Funding for this work was awarded by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation’s America's Ecosystem Restoration Initiative (formerly the America the Beautiful Challenge), which seeks to conserve and restore aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems, improve resilience to flooding and other threats, and expand community access to nature.
What’s been accomplished so far
The DNR was awarded grant funding in 2022, and work on the project began in June 2023. Since that time, the following components have been completed:
• Crawford County: removal of Hulbert Road Dam.
• Emmet County: replacement of 5 Mile Creek Road-stream crossing and Wycamp Creek Road-stream crossing.
• Jackson County: removal of Portage Creek Trout Pond Dam.
• Luce County: removal of Spring Creek Trout Pond Dam. (Spring Creek, shown above, after dam removal)
• Mackinac County: removal of McAlpine Trout Pond Dam (expected completion September 2025).
• Mecosta County: removal of Altona Dam.
• Oceana County: removal of Marshville Dam.
• Oscoda County: removal of Mio Walleye Pond Dam (expected completion September 2025).
"Funding from this partnership helped us restore connectivity to two major fisheries (Five Mile and Wycamp creeks) for LTBB citizens,” said Samuel Day, Great Lakes fisheries research specialist at Little Traverse Bay Bands of Odawa Indians. “The new crossings make it easier for native fish like suckers to migrate from Lake Michigan to their spawning grounds and will help sustain these fisheries for generations to come.”
Other completed aspects of the project also have yielded positive ecological and community effects. Removal of the Altona Dam on the Little Muskegon River has helped reconnect 116 miles of streams and tributaries and restore natural stream function. Native grasses and shrubs were installed in fall 2024, and native shade trees were planted in spring 2025. According to the Muskegon River Watershed Assembly, which partnered with the DNR on this effort, a public-access kayak launch is planned at the site, and additional ways to improve public river access on the Little Muskegon are being explored, too.
Funding from this grant also allowed the Conservation Resource Alliance and West Michigan Shoreline Regional Development Commission to implement critical stream restoration and sediment mitigation efforts for the removal of Marshville Dam on Stony Creek in Oceana County.
“With this funding, over 4,000 cubic yards of sediment were prevented from
washing downstream, and more than 130 habitat structures were installed in a section of the stream impacted by the dam,” said DJ Shook, senior project manager and biologist at the Conservation Resource Alliance. “Early feedback from anglers indicates that this investment has led to larger and more abundant fish being caught in this hidden gem of a stream.”
What's next
An additional 11 projects are slated for action in 2026. The outcomes from all of these projects will serve to address public safety, protect valuable natural resources, and improve the ability of the DNR to focus management efforts and resources on dams in places that provide high-quality resource benefits and public use.
Many of the removal projects that are called “dams” aren’t really serving as dams but are barriers that require removal for public safety and better fish movement upstream and downstream. The following four projects slated for removal are located in the channel but serve no useful purpose and prevent fish from moving upstream: Carr Creek Fish Barrier (Delta County), Big Trout Lake Fish Barrier (Marquette County), Buckhorn Creek Dam (Mecosta County) and East Branch Dam (Oscoda County).
An additional four projects are remnants of the state’s fish hatchery and production program. The structures are no longer needed for contemporary production, and their removal is necessary to restore stream banks and also to improve stream connectivity for fish. These project locations include Dana Lake Pike Marsh Dam (Delta County), Thompson Creek Blocking Weir (Schoolcraft County), Almena Hatchery Dams 1–5 and a diversion dam (Van Buren County) and Rapid River Pike Marsh structure (Delta County).
On the North Branch of Cole Creek Road (Lake County), perched and undersized culverts will be replaced with a timber bridge that will span the stream and allow for free movement of fish upstream and downstream and result in less sediment to the stream.
A strong public/private partnership led to a project on Apple Creek, a tributary to the Boardman-Ottaway River (Grand Traverse County). The partnership will remove two dams that, if they were to catastrophically fail, would threaten the health of the watershed.
Lastly, as a matter of public safety and long-term infrastructure planning, Roberts Lake Dam in Cheboygan Coun-
ty will be removed and a culvert meeting modern standards for this location will be installed. The last inspection of the dam showed that it was in poor condition. That, combined with debris accumulation, jeopardizes the road that goes over the dam and increases the risk of flooding. Historical maps and documents suggest that a wetland complex should remain after removal of this dam, which was constructed in the 1940s to raise water levels 2-3 feet. Roberts Lake will be lowered incrementally, using best management practices to protect downstream habitat. The drawdown will not affect Cochran Lake, upstream of this location.
The availability of grant funding has enabled organizations working with the DNR on upcoming construction to pursue these high-priority projects.
“The award of America the Beautiful funds has allowed Michigan Trout Unlimited to expedite the removal of two dams, with many more to come, providing invaluable benefit to coldwater streams in Michigan,” said Kristin Thomas, stream restoration director at Michigan Trout Unlimited.
“The Superior Watershed Partnership is pleased to be working with the Michigan DNR to remove three obsolete dams in the Upper Peninsula,” said the partnership’s senior planner, Geraldine Grant, referring to Big Trout Lake Fish Barrier, Carr Creek Fish Barrier and Dana Lake Pike Marsh dams. “Removal of these dams will benefit recreational users, address concerns with aging infrastructure, eliminate public safety risks, and improve river connectivity, aquatic organism passage and climate resiliency.”
Upon completion, nearly 200 upstream miles of Michigan rivers and streams will be reconnected, benefiting at-risk species like the eastern massasauga rattlesnake, pickerel frog, and
fluted shell and elktoe freshwater mussels, along with countless other aquatic species.
All of the work for the America's Ecosystem Restoration Initiative project is expected to be completed by January 2027.
Looking ahead
This project may be halfway to the finish line, but dams remain a big challenge for the state of Michigan, especially when many dams weren’t designed for their current uses or to current construction standards.
Josh Leisen, senior project manager at Huron Pines, said, “Huron Pines recognizes the maintenance burdens and threats to freshwater resources that aging dam infrastructure poses across northern Michigan. Huron Pines will be managing the removal of two DNR Fisheries Division dam structures in 2025: the Mio Walleye Pond Dam in Oscoda County and the McAlpine Trout Pond Dam in Mackinac County (shown above). These projects will restore river processes and fish passage while eliminating deteriorating dams from the landscape.”
Removing dams that pose ecological and public safety risks is a priority for the DNR. While dam removals come at a cost, and additional funding will be needed to finance removal projects, repairing and maintaining dams – especially those that no longer meet management goals and environmental best practices – is an even greater expense.
The DNR currently manages over 200 dams statewide, most of which were built well before modern construction techniques, engineering standards or regulatory safety guidelines. While funding to support removals and repairs has been difficult to secure, one bright spot is the $15 million Gov. Gretchen Whitmer has proposed in her budget for the next fiscal year to remove, maintain and conduct engineering studies on critical dams, improving community safety, restoring river health and enhancing wildlife habitats. Those dollars could go a long way in aiding the agency’s ongoing effort to assess the condition and sustainability of dams, a critical part of the DNR’s work in managing Michigan’s natural resources.
More information about the America’s Ecosystem Restoration Initiative is available at nfwf.org/programs/ americas-ecosystem-restoration-initiative. To learn more about DNR dam management, visit Michigan.gov/DNRDams.
The former Marshville Dam on Stony Creek
MDOT shares info on future Water St. project
Also points out need for future repairs on causeway bridge
By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor
MONTAGUE — The Michigan Department of Transportation hosted a public engagement session last Thursday to present, and receive feedback on, a planned resurfacing of Water Street in Montague between the Dowling Street intersection and Stanton Boulevard.
While designs have not been finalized, the most notable portion of MDOT's plan is that the road, four lanes for many years, would be reduced to three lanes, with the northbound portion of the street going down to one lane. There would be a turn lane leading into the Dowling intersection, and the east side of the street would become onstreet parking.
Marc Frederickson, manager of the Muskegon Transportation Service Center (TSC) said feedback from the City of Montague informed the proposed plan. He added that the data MDOT has collected indicates the proposed alignment would not cause undue delays
for drivers and would actually decrease crashes due to the lower potential for sideswipe collisions at the intersection.
"If you're pulling out of the driveway, you only have to wait for one lane here and one lane there to clear, rather than two lanes of traffic here and one there," Fredrickson said. "The turn lane is a refuge, potentially. You can get out of the active lane when you're trying to take a left turn...It benefits pedestrians who are trying to cross the road, with less lanes of active traffic they're crossing."
Fredrickson also emphasized that the project is still in its planning stages and more feedback is welcome. Any feedback residents give to the city can be passed along to the department.
"It's not like if you missed it, you'll never get another chance to comment on the project," Fredrickson said. "This is the first meeting. There will be additional follow-up meetings. There will be an additional engagement piece."
The department isn't just looking at Water Street for its future work. The causeway between Whitehall and Montague, originally built in 1929, is at risk of future closure if funding is not secured to do a needed bridge replacement. MDOT used the causeway as one exam-
Float-a-Palooza
and began his role as MC of the event, heralding the day’s festivities.
Rusty started by thanking attendees for braving the weather, the event sponsors, and their volunteers, many of which were posted across the various boat launches in White Lake to register and help kayakers into the water. He also reminded everyone to visit one of the several boats along the perimeter to retrieve a red wristband, which would aid in the final headcount.
The drone photo, which served as the climactic attendance-counting and record-keeping for Float-aPalooza, was scheduled for 2 p.m., with plenty of fun planned for the intervening hour. Gary Passon represented the West Michigan Underwater Preserve and spoke to the crowd about the organization’s mission and efforts. Fifteen minutes prior to the drone photo, Valerie Hanson prepared and presented a “Blessing of the Boats” for the kayakers, who were then 'christened' with squirt guns and lake water. Valerie ended her blessing with a fitting prayer for anyone celebrating the close of summer: “May your drinks be cold, your sunscreen strong, and your return to shore triumphant.”
As the drone approached the kayaks, Rusty reminded everyone that in order to be considered a flotilla, every floating object must be con-
nected to another.
“Everybody’s got to be touching. Find a connection,” was the reminder as attendees scrambled to secure one of the several ropes tethered to the houseboat, or simply just reached out to hold the kayak next to them.
Once the drone had taken their pictures, the flotilla quickly disassembled and many attendees returned to shore, though many others remained behind until Tommy and The FAN Club’s concert came to an end, enjoying the sun as it finally broke out from behind the rain clouds.
While the final count of 225 was not the 500 that Snow Farmers president John Hanson hoped for, “all that did attend had a good time.” The weather may have affected numbers this year, but
continued from page 1
the hope is the number of White Lake residents who consider Float-a-Palooza as one of their most cherished summer traditions will only rise. While it may not be breaking records this year, a kaleidoscope of 225 kayaks and canoes coming together to celebrate the natural wonders of West Michigan and, as Valerie said, “celebrating the simple act of floating” is all White Lake needs.
ple of many bridges in the state that are at similar risk in a press release Aug. 21.
"At this rate, by decade's end, nearly 50% of state routes, which carry 53% of total traffic and 80% of commercial traffic, will be in poor condition," said MDOT Director Bradley Wieferich in the release. "Without additional investment, those projections will get worse."
According to region bridge engineer Mike Wilson in a video release by MDOT that accompanied the press release, the
last significant rehab work done to the bridge was completed in 1986 and it is now "showing its wear and signs of deterioration."
It would cost $20-30 million to do the necessary bridge replacement. According to the release, such replacements can take on average two years to complete, but now have an anticipated service life of 80-100 years, as opposed to the 40-plus when the last work was completed.
Michigan Department of Transportation employees Cameron Lipko (left) and Marc Fredrickson answer questions from an interested citizen during Thursday's MDOT public engagement session regarding a future Water Street improvement project.
• Andy Roberts/Mirror
Among the happy participants in Saturday's Float-a-Palooza were a unicorn float (above) and man's best friend (below).
• Claire Marshall/ Mirror
Saturday, Aug. 30
Group Therapy performs @ Pub One Eleven, p.m.
Sunday, Aug. 31
Steve Thielman performs @ Book Nook & Java Shop, 10 a.m. to noon.
Salsa Making @ White Lake Community Garden, 2 p.m. Learn to make your own salsa with fresh tomatoes
Community Calendar
from the garden. Bring your own container to take home some salsa.
Monday, Sept. 1
Labor Day Community Walk, 10 a.m. Come join a leisurely stroll from the Montague side of the bridge into Whitehall, modeled after the Bridge Walk on the Mackinac Bridge. Healthy snacks will be served at the
White Lake Chamber & Visitor's Bureau, where the walk ends.
Live trivia @ Red Rooster Tavern, 7 p.m.
FAN Club Mondays @ Fetch Brewing, 7 p.m. Live music on the North Mears Promenade.
Tuesday, Sept. 2
Steve Thielman performs @ Book
Nook & Java Shop, 10 a.m. to noon. Pretty Fun trivia @ Book Nook & Java Shop, 6:15 p.m.
Wednesday, Sept. 3
The Oat Bran Boys perform @ North Grove Brewers, 6:30 p.m.
Thursday, Sept. 4
Live trivia @ Pub One Eleven, 7 p.m.
Echoes of History: Shipwrecks - Interlaken
By Barbara Bedau Brow Volunteer Contributor
The Interlaken was originally built in 1893 as a 170-foot long, 34-foot wide 3-masted schooner. It was built in 1893 in Algonac, Michigan, by Abram Smith & Sons, and was owned by A. W. Comstock of Alpena.
After having several other owners through the years, by 1913 the owners had cut the schooner down and made it into a barge.
In 1934, Ira “Jack” Lyons had taken over the ownership of the vessel and was using it as a construction barge during the building of North Manitou Shoals Lighthouse.
On Oct. 4, 1934, it was reported that a tow barge, belonging to Marine Contractor Ira “Jack Lyons of Whitehall, foundered in the heavy seas and a scow went ashore about six miles north of White Lake.
The two craft were coming from North Manitou Shoals to White Lake harbor for the winter and got into difficulty when the tug, Fred C. Greiling by which they were being towed, ran out of coal within sight of their destination. The tug made port with difficulty after emergency fuel was brought out by a Boatswain’s mate from the White Lake Coast Guard station. The two craft were anchored as best as possible awaiting the tugs return.
The Coast Guard Cutter Escanaba was summoned from Grand Haven and stood by throughout
the night, but was unable to lend much assistance because of the shallowness of the water in which the distressed vessels were in.
By the time the Muskegon Coast Guard arrived and were standing by, the tug Greiling had made an attempt to aid the floundering boats, and bent a rudder support in the shallow water forcing it to turn back to port.
The Muskegon crew tried unsuccessfully to run a line from the Escanaba to the floundering Interlaken. They finally succeeded in throwing a line across the barge with a shoulder gun, but the line parted under the strain.
Darkness prevented another attempt, and the Escanaba stood throughout the night, unable to offer
aid to the stricken vessels.
The Muskegon Coast Guard boat put in at the White Lake harbor until daylight, when they returned to find the barge and scow beached and proceeded to remove the four-man crew from the barge before it sank.
It was estimated there was about $75,000 worth of marine equipment on board the Interlaken, which was going to be salvaged. The hull was believed to be in bad shape. The tug, which suffered only a bent support, was valued at $10,000. The scow was pulled off the beach and towed to White Lake.
The remains of the Interlaken are about 600 feet offshore, approximately seven miles north of Whitehall.
Learn more about ranked-choice voting Sept. 11
The non-partisan group Reviving Our American Democracy (ROAD) will host an event at the Montague City Hall Thursday, Sept. 11 at 7 p.m. to educate the public on ranked-choice voting, a topic that has recently made news in the state.
The event will include experts on the topic, helping attendees determine
for themselves if they would be in favor of the idea.
There is a statewide petition circulating in hopes of getting a referendum on the ballot this fall that would amend the Michigan Constitution to allow for ranked-choice voting. The practice is already used at the state level in Alaska and Maine, according to the Ranked
Choice Voting Resource Center, and at the city level in large cities such as San Francisco and New York City. In Michigan, it's also used at the local level in Kalamazoo, Ann Arbor and Royal Oak to select the mayor and city council of those municipalities, and in East Lansing to select the city council.
The Republican-led Michigan
House of Representatives recently passed a bill that would ban rankedchoice voting in the state, though it's considered unlikely that the Democratic-controlled state senate will follow suit. However, if the referendum made it to the ballot and was successful, it would override any legislation that would ban it.
Weekly children's events return starting Sept. 8
By Virginia DeMumbrum Volunteer Contributor
With Summer Reading over for another year, we are excited to get back to our regular lineup of programs and events for young children. Beginning the week of Sept. 8, look for Family Storytime, Baby Time, and Play & Learn programs for our youngest visitors. Family Story Times are held every Monday at 9:30. Children and their caregivers are invited to join us for stories, music, and movement. Baby Times are offered Tuesdays at 9:30. This half-hour program is filled with songs, music, and movement designed for kids from birth through age 2 and their caregivers, and all are welcome to stay afterward for playtime. Play &
Learn sessions are offered each Friday at 9:30. Children ages 5 and under and their caregivers will enjoy a full hour of stories, songs, playtime, and more. No registration is required for any of these programs; just come whenever you're able! For more information, call the library at 231-894-9531 or visit our website at wlclib.org. And stay tuned for information about upcoming Family Nights and the 1-2-3 Play With Me family workshop series in October!
Suicide Prevention Training @ Your Library
You are invited to White Lake Community Library Thursday, Sept. 11, 5:30-7 p.m. for an important QPR Suicide Prevention Skills Training. Question, Persuade, and Refer are three simple steps that anyone can learn, and that can help someone in crisis. This evidence-based program is presented by HealthWest, and will teach you how to recognize the warning signs of suicide, ask the right questions, and connect a person to the help they need.
All community members, teen and adult, are encouraged to attend. Families with younger children are also welcome at this important training! Kids’ activities and snacks will be provided in a separate space while parents and teens attend the workshop.
This event is free and open to all. Please register children in advance for the kids’ activities so we can have enough supplies and snacks. Registration for adults and teens is appreciated, but walk-ins are always welcome.
TRAGIC FACT: Muskegon County lost 165 people to suicide from 2019 to 2023. The county’s suicide rate is consistently above the state average, and is rising faster than the state average.
Medicare 101 Class Navigating Medicare can be overwhelming—but you don’t have to do it alone. Visit White Lake Community Library Wednesday, Sept. 10, from 1-2 p.m. for Medicare 101, a free and informative session hosted by Senior Resources of West Michigan. This pro-
gram is perfect for individuals turning 65, those already on Medicare who have questions about their coverage, or anyone helping a loved one make healthcare decisions.
Learn the basics of Medicare Parts A, B, C, and D, how to avoid late enrollment penalties, and get your questions answered in a relaxed, supportive setting.
Registration appreciated at wlclib. org/calendar.
DeMumbrum
The barge Interlaken (left) and the tug Fred C. Greiling. • Courtesy Photos
NONPROFIT NEWS SOURCE community
Lake Mirror Lake Mirror
SPORTS SPORTS
Record performances shine in early season
Jazwinski sets Whitehall record in Viking debut
By Andy Roberts
White Lake Mirror Editor
Whitehall junior Bobby Jazwinski made his Vikings debut in tremendous fashion Friday night at the Grand Rapids South Christian Under the Lights Invitational, breaking the school 5K record and taking first place in the small-school Sunset division.
Jazwinski's arrival was highly anticipated after he was an all-state performer for Hart as a freshman. He sat out last season due to MHSAA transfer rules, but showed no signs of rust in delivering a run of 15:15.1, a personal best for him and easily a record for a Whitehall runner. The time was also a meet record.
"He will be a fun one for fans to follow this season," Whitehall coach Jeff Bassett said.
The Vikings finished in seventh place as a team behind Jazwinski's
celebrates a school-record time
state. • Courtesy Photo
effort. Hunter Parsons placed 32nd in a time of 17:27.2 and Rex Pumford was 36th in a time of 17:30.5. Justin Jensen set a new personal best of 18:15.9 to finish 51st, and freshman Ian Dennis was 73rd in a time of 18:56.8.
Whitehall's girls team did not compete at the event. Bassett said the inexperienced Vikings hope to grow throughout the season and earn personal best times.
Reeths-Puffer's girls team placed 13th in the large-school Twilight division, paced by another
good run from Jersi Bilek. Bilek was 12th in the race with a time of 19:50.9. Other Rocket scorers were Darcy Keefe (78th, 23:10.6), Kaitlyn Durow (103rd, 24:00.0), Charli Belinger (168th, 27:10.5) and Olivia Yonkman (195th, 29:01.9).
The R-P boys finished in 15th place. Top finisher Dylan Sturr finished 102nd (18:37.0). Other scorers were Gabriel Luna (180th, 20:19.5), Landon Learn (257th, 22:02.0), Kyron Novak (272nd, 22:40.0) and Jonathan Steenhagen (295th, 23:42.8).
• Courtesy Photo
Cadence Fox ties Montague record with a 75 in jamboree win
By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor
Cadence Fox's school-record tying 75 highlighted a huge performance by Montague last Thursday at the first West Michigan Conference jamboree of the season.
Fox was one of four Wildcats to place in the top 10 as the team romped to a win at Bent Pine Golf Course,
shooting a team total of 358 to beat second-place Whitehall by 54 strokes.
Fox made three birdies during her round and shot bogey or better on 17 of the 18 holes played. Whitehall's Riley Shafer finished second overall with an 88. Addi Smith was third with an 89 - her best in a varsity round.
Also for the Wildcats, Brynlee Kessler shot a 96 and Molly Mulder had a 98, taking seventh and ninth place respectively. For Whitehall, Ryleigh Hershey shot a 101, Morgan Garcia had a 110 and Avarie Bentz posted a 113.
Positive signs in Viking loss to Mona Shores
Winczewski stars at keeper in 1st varsity game, defense stout
By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor
WHITEHALL — Whitehall knew it might take some lumps early in the season, but coach Dillon McCarthy is keeping his eye on the long view. And despite Friday's 3-1 defeat to Mona Shores, the long view showed a lot of signs of being positive.
One of the biggest was junior keeper Alex Winczewski, who played his first varsity game and looked up to the task. He made an outstanding save on a point-blank shot from Shores' Chauncey Browley which came off a corner kick in the first half, keeping the game scoreless at the break.
"That keeper just played out of his mind," McCarthy said. "That's his first varsity game, and he saved things a typical high school kid wouldn't save if he'd never played soccer. Hats off to him. He just earned himself a varsity spot."
He appeared on course to earn his first varsity victory, too, when the Vikings (0-2) kept Shores scoreless for another 20 minutes to start the second half and Carter Burrous delivered a beautiful shot to score the game's
with Mona
Javi LeBlanc
during Friday's game
• Andy
first goal with 18:28 to play. That goal capped a long stretch of the second half in which Whitehall, which spent much of the first half fending off an aggressive Mona Shores attack, was able to sustain a counter-punch.
Unfortunately for Whitehall, that goal "woke something up in (Shores)," McCarthy said, and the Sailors, a proud big-school program almost immediately stormed back. Within 45 seconds, Shores crashed the net for what appeared to be a goal off a free kick before it was waved off; officials ruled Winczewski had possession of the ball
a leaping effort to get a ball that landed out of bounds during Friday's game against Mona
an impressive game despite the Sailors' 3-1 win. • Andy Roberts/Mirror
before it was knocked loose by a Sailor. A few minutes later, Shores got on the board for real, and only 90 seconds after that, Andrew Bean launched a perfect corner kick that curved around everybody and into the net untouched for the go-ahead score.
"That was a heck of a shot from No. 13 from the corner," McCarthy said. "That happens sometimes. I hope it doesn't happen next time."
The Sailors pushed in an insurance goal with 5:29 to play. Whitehall put some pressure on the Shores defense
down the stretch, but could not cut into the lead.
McCarthy was pleased, though, with the effort of his defensive unitnot just Winczewski, but also veteran stars Keegan Frees and Javi LeBlanc, who made some big plays in the Vikings' end.
"I hope (people) saw Keegan Frees out there flying around, winning every header, contesting everything," McCarthy said. "Javi LeBlanc is a really good
Whitehall keeper Alex Winczewski (left) makes
Shores. Winczewski played
Whitehall defeat continued
Whitehall's Bobby Jazwinski
of 15:15.1 in his first Viking race at Friday's Under the Lights Invitational. A transfer from Hart, Jazwinski's time gave him the top time in the
Montague's golf team celebrates a first-place finish in Thursday's WMC jamboree at Bent Pine Golf Course. Cadence Fox (third from left) shot a school-record tying 75 in the win.
Whitehall's
(right) wrestles
Shores' Zayne DuBois for position
at Whitehall.
Roberts/Mirror
Whitehall takes 4th at home golf invite
By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor
WHITEHALL — Facing off with some high-level competition and bigger schools, Whitehall measured up fairly well Wednesday, finishing in fourth place at its home invitational with a team score of 395.
The Vikings finished 27 strokes behind meet winner Big Rapids and topped four West Michigan Conference opponents in the standings.
Two Whitehall players finished in the individual top 10, led by Riley Shafer, whose 88 placed her in fourth. Kelsie McClure shot a 95, earning a 10th-place finish.
Morgan Garcia scored a 103 for Whitehall, and Avarie Bentz had a 109, a new personal best.
Vikes top Norsemen as part of solid day at home double dual
By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor
WHITEHALL — Whitehall enjoyed a solid day at Tuesday's home double dual, defeating North Muskegon 6-2 and playing Mona Shores to a 4-4 tie.
It was a big day for the Viking doubles pairs, all four of whom defeated their Norsemen opponents and three of whom posted 2-0 days. The top three Viking pairs each won both their matches in straight sets. Ian Sampson/ Evan Thomas picked up 6-1, 6-1 and 6-4, 6-0 wins, and Remington Whelpley/Adam Sikkenga earned 6-3, 6-0 and 6-2, 6-0 wins. The No. 3 pair, Cameron Cook/Elijah Roberge, won by 6-0, 6-1 and 6-1, 6-4 scores.
Wyatt Burger, the freshman No. 3 singles player, also went 2-0, winning by scores of 6-1, 6-1 and 6-4, 7-5.
Evan Schuitema, at No. 2 singles, and No. 4 doubles pair Aiden Strandberg/Scout Freiheit each earned a victory against North Muskegon.
Whitehall defeat
senior as an outside back, who has a high motor and gives us an offensive threat too. We've got a lot to work on and piece some things together, but I'm proud of them."
Both are capable offensive players as well, and their two-way abilities should give opponents a lot to think about as they put together game plans later in the season.
So too, hopefully, will a gaggle of underclassmen that make up the bulk of the Whitehall roster. There are only four seniors and three juniors on the team, meaning the Vikings have a lot to look forward to - and a lot of work to do.
"Every day when we work, we work for that idea that in October, we'll have our lungs under us," McCarthy said. "We'll be in the best shape we can be, and we'll be playing our best soccer. A lot
Jenison 2 Reeths-Puffer 0
The Rockets' season-opening unbeaten streak came to an end as the Wildcats held them to 5 shots on goal in the O-K Green opener. North Muskegon 6 Whitehall 0
The Vikings managed 4 shots on goal, but the defending WMC champs mostly put the clamps on the Whitehall offense in a shutout.
Reeths-Puffer 9 Muskegon 0
The Rockets romped in an O-K Green contest. Blake Kiel scored 3 times to lead the team, and Carson McCollum added 2 goals. Kaleb Fowler added a goal and an assist.
continued from page 4
to learn from this, but it was also a good outing.
"Every game, we'll get better. We'll take some on the chin. We
intentionally scheduled tough competition in non-conference to prepare us for that conference run."
Whitehall 0-2 at Allendale Tri Whitehall lost matches to Allendale, 25-12, 25-7, and to Covenant Christian, 26-24, 25-23. Individual statistics were not available due to technical difficulties.
Whitehall 0-3 at Western Mich. Christian Invite The Vikings dropped matches to Pewamo-Westphalia (25-20, 25-11), Kalamazoo Christian (25-16, 25-8) and Covenant Christian (25-12, 2520). Individual statistics were not available due to technical difficulties.
Montague 0-3 at season-opening home quad
Montague lost its matches to Zeeland East, Allendale and Western Michigan Christian. The latter match lasted 3 games before the Warriors came away with the win. Gentry Knop led the Wildcats with 8 aces and 31 digs. Emalee McGee had 23 service points and 27 assists.
Reeths-Puffer 2-1 at home quad
R-P lost a match to Fruitport before rebounding to defeat Ravenna and Ludington. Kate Tindall passed out 55 assists, setting up Mairyn Peterson and Annabelle Darke for 16 and 15 kills respectively. Carlee Bowen had 24 digs for R-P defensively, and Darke added 23.
Reeths-Puffer 3rd at Byron Center Jamboree
Sophia McCollum tied for medalist honors with a 39, scoring no worse than bogey on any of the 9 holes. Her score was 10 strokes better than last year's on the same course. Ella Voorhies added a 48.
Whitehall 3rd at G.R. South Christian Quad
The Vikings won 5 matches at the quad, one each by 5 different flights. Winners were doubles pairs Ian Sampson/Evan Thomas, Elijah Roberge/ Remington Whelpley and Adam Sikkenga/Cameron Cook, and singles players Evan Schuitema and Wyatt Burger.
Reeths-Puffer 3rd at Fruitport Invite
Ethan Frang and Cory Judd won flight championships at the top two singles flights, with Frang going 3-0 and Judd going 2-1, with all 5 wins in straight sets. Winning one match each were Roman Ponce and doubles pairs Jackson Baldus/Landon VanderKooi and Henrik Ketner/Zayden Zlotnicki, with all those wins in straight sets as well.
Whitehall's Keegan Frees (6) goes down while chasing a loose ball as Chauncey Browley pursues for Mona Shores during Friday's game at Whitehall. The Vikings lost a battle, 3-1. • Andy Roberts/Mirror
Above, Whitehall's Wyatt Burger stretches to return a shot from North Muskegon foe Emery Price during Tuesday's home double dual. Below, Evan Thomas winds up to deliver a shot during a match with doubles partner Ian Sampson. Burger and Thomas/Sampson each won both their matches as Whitehall went 1-0-1. • Andy Roberts/Mirror Photos
Whitehall golfers Riley Shafer (above) and Morgan Garcia helped the Vikings to a 4th-place finish at their home invitational Wednesday. Shafer led the team with a 4th-place individual finish. • Andy Roberts/Mirror Photos
Whitehall 3 Shelby 0 Keeper Alex Winczewski secured his 1st varsity shutout, and Carter Burrous scored 2 goals to lead the Viking offense. Evan Jud also scored for Whitehall in the win.
'Cats pleased with effort despite loss to Hart
By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor
MONTAGUE — Montague surrendered two unfortunate goals late in the first half that proved to be the difference in a 4-3 West Michigan Conference defeat to Hart, but coach Brandon Mahoney said he'd leave the game smiling.
That's because he saw his young team respond well to adversity. Down a player for the last 25 minutes of the game after a red card was issued, the Wildcats cut a 4-2 deficit to one goal and created several other scoring chances besides in that span.
"I am happy with the outcome," Mahoney said. "We always want the win. That's what we play for, but at the end of the day, I'm not going to go to bed grumpy. I'm going to walk out of here with smiles because I feel like they worked as hard as they could and, put in a tough situation, they're going to succeed."
Hart broke a 1-1 tie by scoring a long-ball goal late in the first half and getting another when a handball on Montague in the box awarded the Pirates a penalty kick, which they cashed in. The former was an unfortunate break - and a reality of playing a freshman keeper, Chayse Maddox, who's a growth spurt away from being able to more easily stop the ball from getting over his head. The latter was just the result of an aggressive play on defense.
•
Noah Raeth unleashed a terrific shot 10 minutes into the second half after breaking away from the Hart defense to cut the deficit to 3-2, but only 90 seconds after that, the Pirates' Isaiah Carreon responded with a similar goal from 20 yards out.
Despite all of that, Mahoney saw it as a game of growth for his team and compared it to a regular-season loss to Fremont in 2024, which the Wildcats avenged in the district finals. Hart is in Montague's district this year.
"I'm okay with the loss today because moving forward, we're going to be stronger," Mahoney said. "If we got to play them again down the road, I see us rolling them...I'll take the loss during the season, and come the districts, I'll take the win then."
Sailing School hopes to bring
Runs out of WLYC, seeks donations to fund youth programs
By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor
The White Lake Sailing School is seeking donations to fund its annual operations, which aim to keep the sport of sailing alive for the new generation.
According to a fundraiser on Zeffy, which is a fundraising platform for nonprofits, the school is just over a third of the way to its $60,000 goal as of Thursday, Aug. 28.
"Being a nonprofit, we barely scrape by every year," said Camden Seymour, the school's program director. "We have to buy new boats. We have regatta sign-up fees each year. We have to pay the staff, even if we have down years. There are a ton of extra expenses we have to cover. Insurance costs are through the roof."
Another thing the school would like to accomplish in the long term is purchasing butterfly sailing boats. Butterflies are one-person vessels that Seymour said are "the perfect boat" for 14-17 year old sailors who are learning to operate boats solo, but despite their small size, they are expensive. Seymour said new butterflies cost $7,000, and previous attempts to raise money
sport to new generation
for them haven't produced the results the school hoped.
"These other sailing schools are selling their boats after X number of years and buying new ones," Seymour said. "In sailing, the older your boat is it's more likely to take on water, and the foam on the inside gets wet and heavy, so it's slower."
The school operates out of the White Lake Yacht Club and has sessions in June and July. There are also a lot of opportunities to sail in regattas through the school. Seymour is lead instructor at the school, and according to its website, there are four other instructors on staff.
Seymour said he was pleased with
the turnout for this year's school, which was close to 60 students over the course of the sessions. A good sign for the future? The biggest class this year was in the 6-9 year old age group.
"One of the sessions was 16 kids," Seymour said with a laugh. "That was a lot of 6-9 year olds...It's hard to teach them individually because there's so many of them. That was kind of our max. The session is only a week long. They all wanted to come back the following week, and we had 13."
The school is not just a job for Sey-
mour, a Michigan State University senior; it's going back to his roots. Now in his second year as program director - prior to that he was an instructor - Seymour grew up learning to sail through the school himself. His family is from Grand Rapids and has a home in Whitehall.
"This is how I spent my summers as a kid," Seymour said. "I met a ton of lifelong friends. I want to see it do well. It was a big part of my life and it's personal for me."
Auditions coming for fall youth production
The 2025 Fall White Lake Youth Theatre season will begin Sept. 13-14 with auditions for its autumn performance workshop, a newly teen-written, original murder mystery called Don't Say the M(acbeth) Word: a Teen-Led Quest to Bring Shakespeare into the Modern Era. This dark comedy features all the fun of a Renaissance Faire, with moments of pure Shakespearean Drama and over-the-top hilarity as a troupe of actors must go on with their performance of Macbeth, no matter what.
The original script for this fall’s play was
co-written by teenage Youth Theatre Council members Evangelyn Blotz and Hannah Hellewell. The show will be dircted by program alum Sky Harsch, assistant director and stage
manager support from Amber Hellewell, with choreography by local dance and yoga instructor Lauren Sawson. That
White Lake Sailing School program director Camden Seymour (right) enjoys time on the water with school participants during the season. Seymour is leading a fundraising campaign for the school. • Courtesy Photo
Several butterfly boats sail on the water near the White Lake Yacht Club. The White Lake Sailing School is hoping in the long term to add new butterfly boats to its fleet.
• Courtesy Photo
Above, Montague's Isaiah King goes down while battling a Hart opponent for possession during Wednesdy's WMC game at Montague. Below, the Wildcats' Korben Sanchez works his way between Hart defenders with the ball. Montague lost a close battle, 4-3.
• Andy Roberts/Mirror
Montague's Jonah Henderson tries to come up with the ball out of the air during Wednesday's WMC game against Hart. The Wildcats lost, 4-3.
Andy Roberts/Mirror
Rothbury council appoints new planning commissioner
By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor
ROTHBURY — The Rothbury village council appointed new resident Juan Cano to the planning commission during its regular meeting Tuesday, Aug. 19.
The vote to appoint Cano was 5-0; Jim Fekken and Denise Kurdziel were absent from the meeting. Cano replaces Chris Orcaz, who moved out of the village. Cano said he recently moved to the village with his fiancee and is looking forward to serving.
Most of the meeting revolved around continued discussion of Greenlawn Mobile Home Park. Planning commission chair Mike Harris said as far as he's been able to tell, the park's
owner, Kurt Hofstra, has stopped doing the maintenance the village requested after briefly expressing a desire to work with the village earlier this year. No action was taken, but all on the council appeared frustrated with the issues at the park, which include multiple abandoned trailers and others, Harris said, that are damaged to the point of being uninhabitable.
The council gave a 5-0 approval to a new wristband policy regarding Electric Forest. The new policy states that the council will hold an annual vote at a meeting prior to the festival to allocate any passes distributed to the village for oversight purposes. The passes - the amount was not specified - cannot be transferred to others and must be used
Dirt Dauber club presents September merit awards
The Dirt Dauber Garden Club announced its September merit awards this week, celebrating exceptional gardens in the community.
The residential Merit Garden Award went to Trudy Nicely and Doug Kniff for their stately gardens at 6301 South Shore Drive in Whitehall. Although the historic property dates to 1906, the gardens surrounding the home are relatively new, having been established only about 30 years ago. Stone pillars with black wrought iron in between provide a sophisticated charm and a perfect entryway to this estate. The gardens have been designed to complement the appeal of the old homestead, which also includes a charming carriage house and potting shed. Visitors are greeted by Zack the dog as they wander past the row of hydrangeas, the rose garden, and the circular island that is filled with an endless variety of perennials and whimsical art pieces. This combination of art
and gardening is a source of pride for Trudy.
“I put whatever I want into my garden and sometimes it works,” she jokes.
As visitors stroll this month’s merit award garden, they can appreciate how a passion for gardening and art can transform a space while honoring its rich history.
In the business category, Gary’s Restaurant at 906 E. Colby Street in Whitehall is recognized for its outdoor garden space. Diners sit comfortably under shade sails and enjoy their meals surrounded by colorful blooms. Robin Schiller, a waitress of 40 years and gardener by heart, took on the challenge of cleaning up the patio area by transplanting some of her favorite plants from her home garden.
“We started the project last year and added to it again this spring. I love looking out there now,” shares Robin.
Luscious ornamental grasses, gi-
Bond proposal
addressed in the bond proposal, but the district wanted to concentrate on filling the most urgent needs while being "mindful" of the impact of the millage rate on taxpayers.
Cardinal said she and her team were aware of past millage requests by the district that have been voted down at the ballot box and felt her staff was able to bring "a fresh set of eyes" to determine the biggest needs and how best to meet them. Discussions with facility operations teams, principals, and administration were part of the process as well.
The district, Pure Architects and Clark also used several community engagement sessions - workshops, surveys and community meetings - to collect public feedback. Wallis chuckled that a survey of Whitehall students produced a wide range of responses, though safety and temperature were among them.
The bond proposal includes heating and cooling upgrades in all four school buildings, including a boiler replacement at Shoreline Elementary, where the district has said it's passed its expected usage life. At the middle school, Van Wieren said he noticed that even this week, with unseasonably comfortable temperatures, some rooms were measured in the low 80s, producing a potentially stifling environment.
The secured-entry facility, Van Wieren said, would force anyone coming into the school during the day to walk through the office first, similarly to other district buildings.
Also part of the proposal are cafeteria upgrades at Shoreline, the middle school and the high school. Wallis said on exploratory visits to the Shoreline cafeteria, he noticed the acoustics produced such a loud environment that some students had earplugs in. He called the environment "disregulating."
There will be more community engagement sessions as the election approaches, Van Wieren said. One is scheduled for Wednesday evening, Sept. 10 at the high school and another for Sept. 24 at the middle school. The district has emphasized community input as it seeks approval for the proposal.
Treasurer Jimmy TenBrink asked Wallis and Cardinal what the projected timeline was for the various improvements, hoping the work could be completed by the start of the 2027-28 school year. Cardinal said she's also hopeful of that but did not want to make promises, as any number of factors could result in delays. She said the likely timeline would see the addition of new furniture and roofing improvements (also parts of the proposal) in the summer of 2026, with the bulk of other work being done the summer of 2027.
by either village staff or elected officials designated by the council.
In other Electric Forest notes, clerk Deb Murphy said the village has received the mass gathering fees from the festival for 2025. She noted that the total - over $252,000 - was a decline from last year, meaning attendance at the festival was down.
Police chief Ethan Walker requested the council provide figures for how much it would cost to replace the mobile data terminals in the two village police vehicles and to purchase new desktop computers. Both replacements have already been budgeted for and are necessary, Walker said, because of Microsoft's move away from providing support for older operating systems.
• Andy Roberts/Mirror
ant Cannas, and climbing roses adorn the inside perimeter of the patio while bright colored annuals fill the inside flower boxes. Gary’s outdoor seating not only offers fresh air and relaxation, but can also serve up botanical ideas for your own garden space.
The Dirt Dauber Garden Club invites everyone to visit these serene gar-
dens and take in their quiet and calm. The club looks forward to celebrating the dedication and artistry of our local gardeners again next summer.
For more information about the DDGC, community projects, club meetings, and other events, visit the DDGC Facebook page.
City council
quests would be responsible for paying for them.
Tavernier also shared two other action items he wanted to address, including a house at 708 S Division Street that is in disrepair. After investigating the issue, Tavernier felt the two most likely options would be for the city to buy the land and demolish the building or to rehabilitate the property, the latter of which he acknowledged would be "a gamble" as the extent of needed repairs is unkown. Before making any decisions, he wanted council input. After some discussion, including council member Scott Brown saying he felt the property should be demolished, Tavernier said he would obtain cost estimates for a demolition and report back to council. A public commenter, Jerry Rowe, later agreed with Brown that it's not possible to adequately rehabilitate the property.
The other action item Tavernier broached was the Hanson Street hill staircase, the foundation of which he said is being undermined by runoff from the nearby parking lot. The issues with the staircase, said council member Jeff Holmstrom, date to an intoxicated driver crashing into the staircase and forcing a repair. Mayor Steven Salter said in his opinion, poor design work by Prein and Newhof on that repair (the concrete has not held up well) led to these issues and suggested approaching the firm about helping to fix it. Tavernier is currently soliciting bids to ad-
dress the issue and said it may require a budget amendment, though as the city does not presently have anyone in the treasurer position, he does not have clarity on the matter.
The council approved an expansion to the city's social district common area that will include the new pocket park between Bell's Furniture and CatchMark Technologies as well as - when it is closed for approved events - the North Mears Avenue parking lot. The vote was 6-1, with Brown dissenting as he felt the pocket park is too secluded an area to include in the district.
The council also unanimously approved a temporary street closure on Slocum Street Thursday, Sept. 25 to accommodate the White Lake Community Library's annual Good Neighbor Day dinner, which takes place on the street. Brown and Salter both shared they've attended the dinner in the past and believe it's a positive community event.
An ordinance involving deer population control was tabled after some discussion. Sikkenga and Holmstrom each shared adjustments they'd like made to the plan - Holmstrom wanted to include land near Peterson Street and Lewis Road, and Sikkenga suggested adding more land near the White Lake Drive HarborLight Credit Union location - and the council agreed to have those two and Tavernier work together on implementing changes. As bow season opens Oct. 1, the council would like the ordinance in place by then.
Rothbury resident Juan Cano (right) is sworn in by village clerk Brandy Williams as a new member of the planning commission following the Aug. 19 council meeting. Cano was appointed by the council during the meeting to fill a vacant seat.
The Dirt Dauber Garden Club presented its merit awards for September. Gary's Restaurant won in the busness category, with server Robin Schiller (left) leading the beautification of the patio area. Trudy Nicely (right) and Doug Kniff took the residential prize for their garden outside their Whitehall home.
• Courtesy Photos
Dairy Treat window damaged in car accident; no injuries reported
By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor
The White Lake Dairy Treat received a rude welcome to the week Tuesday when a car struck its building. Luckily, there were no major injuries reported.
According to the Whitehall police report, the incident occurred when an elderly male driver fell out of his car, sustaining minor injuries, and the car continued into the building. The crash knocked out one of Dairy Treat's windows.
The store was not immediately able to replace the window, but boarded it up so it could continue to operate. The store has posted updates to Facebook to let loyal customers know its status.
program recruits new members from local middle and high school students each autumn, and this fall the program will return to monthly meetings in November.
Auditions will take place for lead and supporting actors Sept. 13-14 from 2:30-4:30 p.m., with students from 7th-12th grade welcome to audition. Auditions for the roles of Renaissance Fair circus arts performers will take place Sept. 13 from 12-1 p.m.
Rehearsal commitments for lead and supporting actors will be Tuesdays and Thursdays from 5:30-7:30 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. until the week of the production. Circus arts performers will likely rehearse once a week until show week. No absences are allowed for cast and crew during the dates of Nov. 10-13 leading up to the performances, which are set for Nov. 14 at 7:30 p.m. and Nov. 15 at 2 p.m.
Cost for lead and ensemble roles is $160 and circus arts performers is $75, both if cast. Either are eligible for homeschool stipends and partial scholarships. Reach out to Cindy Beth Davis-Dykema at the Playhouse with questions.
Whitehall school board not expecting state budget soon
By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor
WHITEHALL — Whitehall superintendent CJ Van Wieren said during the Monday, Aug. 18 school board meeting that in conversations with people at the state level, he does not expect resolution on the state education budget before Oct. 1, the deadline for a state budget to be passed to avoid a government shutdown.
Tim Cross, Chris Mahoney and Melissa Moore were absent, but the four members of the board present were enough to be considered a quorum.
Whitehall and Montague's boards both passed budgets prior to their July 1 starts to the fiscal year despite not
knowing for sure how much money per pupil the state will distribute to the districts. The state legislature, of which the House is controlled by Republicans and the Senate by Democrats, has not yet been able to come to an agreement on the budget, including per-pupil contributions to school districts.
As a result, both districts announced prior to the school year that free breakfast and lunch for students was only budgeted through September.
In good news for the district, Van Wieren said the district will greet and distribute t-shirts to incoming kindergarteners next week for the second year in a row. Van Wieren launched the tradition last year to build connection between
Cars for Cancer coming to The Lakes Mall
The 21st annual Cars for Cancer Show will take place at The Lakes Mall in Muskegon this weekend, Sunday, Aug. 31 and Monday, Sept. 1.
All proceeds from the event benefit the Johnson Family Cancer Center –Muskegon.
The event begins Sunday with a classic car show and cruise, followed by an evening in the beverage tent. Big Cadillac will provide live music. Sunday's activities will last from 4-11 p.m. Monday gets started early at 7 a.m. and goes until 4 p.m. The full car show will take place, with food vendors and a live auction featuring various collect-
ible items. There will also be a raffle with prizes including a custom e-bike and a 1929 Ford Model AA truck, among others.
“This event is about more than cars—it’s about our community coming together to support local cancer care and the families it serves,” said Bill Hill, event organizer. “Every dollar raised stays right here in Muskegon to make a difference.”
The event is open to the public, and attendees are encouraged to bring friends and family for a weekend of cars, food, entertainment, and charitable giving.
the district and the incoming students. The board also welcomed student rep Emily VanDam to the board. VanDam and classmate Kate Beda are the new reps after Tyler Van Antwerp filled the role last school year. Beda had a soccer scrimmage Monday and was unable
to attend. VanDam shared that she participates in many student activities and hopes to become a teacher. She said she is interning two hours per day in a second-grade classroom in pursuit of that goal.
The Montague High School Class of 1962 had its annual reunion earlier this month, a tradition that dates to its 45th reunion in 2007.
"Our class tries to get together every year, because we figure we have to try to keep in touch with each other," said Tom Owczarski, one of those 1962 Wildcats.
This year's reunion took place at Lloyd's Landing, where Bob Lloyd, another '62 Wildcat, lives. Owczarski said about 20 people attend most of the gatherings, which represents about half the graduating class.
The gathering always includes grilled hot dogs and brats with side dishes brought by potluck. The group also enjoys
a log fire - even at this year's reunion, which happened in 90-degree weather.
This year's event also included a tour of the school led by athletic director Jay Mulder, Owczarski said. Grads who served in the armed forces took a photo together in front of the veterans'
wall opposite the auditorium.
"About 10 of us showed up," Owczarski said. "He showed us the new facility and the performance center. Luckily most of us are healthy enough to walk through the school and do all that other stuff. We're blessed."
The Montague High School Class of 1962 had its annual reunion earlier in August. Alumni who were present included, from left, front row, Joe Schiller, Don Ingersoll, Sharon Kroll Mclouth, Sally Atchison Sevey, Tom Owczarski and Bob Lloyd; second row, Dick Smith, Rich Wadleigh, Bob Quinn, Alex Winter, Bill Chamberlain,Gene Stagner, Sharyl Mahovsky Oliver, Bill Cook, Ray Salgren, Gary Hansen and Bob Campsmith. • Courtesy Photo
A car accident Tuesday knocked out a window of the White Lake Dairy Treat in Whitehall. No injuries were reported. The scene was cleaned up, and the window temporarily boarded up, to enable the store to continue to deliver tasty treats to local customers. • Courtesy Photos
