The Oceana Echo - Volume 3, Issue 17, September 19, 2025 by theoceanaecho

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Trinity Health donates AED to Oceana County Sheriff's Office

The Trinity Health – Shelby medical executives were recenlty presented with a "thank you" for their purchase of an automated external defibrillator (AED) for the Oceana County Sheriff’s Office.

"A Cardiac Science AED was purchased by a generous donation from the medical providers in our community. We are grateful for the providers in our area that recognize the need for these vital tools. Early high-quality CPR and early access to AEDs is the key to anyone surviving sudden cardiac arrest," Undersheriff Ryan Schiller stated in a media release regarding the donation.

According to the American Heart Association's 2020 Guidelines for CPR and ECC, “Despite recent gains, less than 40% of adults receive lay-

person-initiated CPR, and fewer than 12% have an AED applied before EMS arrival.”

"Many might assume that AEDs are in every patrol car, and that is simply not the case. AEDs are approximately $2,000 per device, which is cost prohibitive to put in every car," Schiller explained. "We have relied on many generous donors and organizations who have given so that these are available.

"Oftentimes when a 911 call for help comes in, our deputies have the ability to arrive prior to other first responders. When a deputy can arrive on scene and have the necessary tools, they can actually change the outcome of a patient. We are grateful for this opportunity to be a part in saving lives in our community.

Board of Commissioners hears OCD funding request, further OCCOA concerns

By Claire Marshall

The Oceana Echo Community Correspondent

The Oceana Conservation District (OCD) presented their annual report at the County Board of Commissioners’ Sept. 11 meeting. Like many other annual reports recently presented to the board, the annual budget and subsequent requests for budget increases were the main topic of the presentation, given by District Manager Laura Ackerman. The requested increase is $8,000, which would bump the bud-

geted amount up to an overall $28,000 from the Board of Commissioners. Ackerman went on to describe where the increase would be applied and what that benefit would be to the overall community and the mission of the organization.

The Conservation District’s Household Hazardous Waste disposal program, specifically, would see a $2,000 increase to ensure that the program can continue to offer the services they currently provide, as well as cover expanded services, such as tire recycling and oil disposal. Ackerman says the increase would allow the OCD to, “go into the next year confident that, if someone brings in a giant trailer of waste, we don’t just say, ‘Sorry, we can’t take that.’ Because if they drive away, they’re probably just going to dump it.”

The remaining $6,000 of the budget increase would go towards general OCD programming, specifically educational programs such as “Knee-High Naturalists,” which offers programming geared towards pre-schoolers. Many of the programs offered by OCD rely primarily on revenue and donations, leaving the future of those specific programs uncertain. “Having a program that is 100% dependent on donations means that every year we are wondering if we

are going to be able to do that [program].”

Another important aspect of the requested increase is to keep the attendee fees for programs as accessible as possible, particularly for children’s educational programs, with Ackerman expressing the purpose is to ensure that the “kids in our community can build a connection to this land, because if they love it, they’re going to want to build their lives here. They’re going to stay here and be a part of this community.”

This sentiment was echoed by OCD board member Mary Sheppard, who expressed her appreciation of “Knee-High Naturalists” as a mother of two, “I think this is an awesome program to involve the youth of this county in one of the best natural resources that this county offers, and there’s really no other programs like it in the tri-county area.”

Later, during Commissioners Reports, Commissioner Paul Erickson said of the OCD, “I really do appreciate what the service has done for us.” He particularly highlighted the importance of keeping back roads free of dumped trash and the accessibility for residents to safely and cleanly dispose of oil, especially when considering that the latter is no longer a service provided by the transfer station.

Further appeals re-

garding the Oceana County Council on Aging (OCCOA) and My Friends House adult day services were made during the meeting’s public comment. First was a client of My Friends House, Clair Sloan - whose wife, Mary Sloan, had expressed her dissatisfaction with the handling of the recent dismissal of Tami Smith, former manager of My Friends House, and the subsequent response from OCCOA at previous meetings. Clair shared his positive experiences of Smith and her management and discussed his worries about sharing his negative feelings of the dismissal while attending the program for fear of being fired as a client. This comes after family and caretakers of clients received a letter from OCCOA and My Friends House closing their open doors policy -

as explained by Clair and later Mary - family and caretakers are no longer allowed within My Friends House, save for special events and occasions.

Following Clair’s comments, Mary further explained the My Friends House policy change, the occurrence of further field trip cancellations and her unease with the way the OCCOA’s budget is dispersed, as recorded in the organization’s 990 Income Tax forms, which are publicly available online.

Chairman Robert Walker spoke on behalf of the board in response to the public comment regarding OCCOA. “I understand your concerns, however, the Oceana County Council on Aging is a non-forprofit organization governed by its own board of

directors that is not appointed by the Oceana County Board of Commissioners. While there is a dedicated millage to support the programs, the Board of Commissioners does not have oversight over the Council's operation. The millage they receive from Oceana County taxpayers is a millage that was voted on by the Oceana County taxpayers for the Oceana County Board of Commissioners.”

Upon Mary’s question of what she and other concerned parties should do, Walker advised that strength in numbers would be effective when approaching the OCCOA Board with their concerns in the future. Erickson also added that further researching “the numbers,” such as the 990 Income Tax records, would also be beneficial.

A heartfelt thanks to our community

On behalf of the Oceana County Fair Board, I would like to give our heartfelt thanks to our community. Our Fair is the Best Little Fair in Michigan. Every year our children bring their animals and projects to showcase our way of life. Smiling faces and proud families are what make our Fair go.

Our Carnival, Tractor Pull, Horse Pull and the Demos were excellent! Our barns were full, and we had a record-breaking auction. The pride on Auction night is contagious, and our Grandstands were full of proud families and anxious buyers.

We would like to thank everyone who contributed to our 2025 Fair, as this Community comes on the run to make certain the show goes on. This year our Farm Families and Contractor Families came and readied our track for the show. Our Electrical Contractors repaired storm damage, and our Plumbing Contractor handled our water issues. The City of Hart was there to tend to our barns and electrical services. We thank everyone who made the Fair of 2025 a success! It takes a Village, and we have the best.

- Paul Erickson, President, The Oceana County Agricultural Society

A full list of this year's 154th fair results begins on page 11

Pictured above, from left, are: Dr. Loren Reed, Dr. Terryce Blanchard, Deputy Josh Teunis, John Foss, Deputy Owen McGuigan and Director of Nursing Melissa Metts. • Contributed

Local libraries offer many resources to the communities they serve

By Sharon Hallack The Oceana Echo Community Correspondent

As another summer fades into fall, the community is settling into a more regular routine. Because libraries can be such a great resource for a local community, the Oceana Echo is providing this brief summary of Oceana County’s library information. Please reach out to individual libraries via their websites, email or phone for more specific information.

Hart Area Public Library (HAPL) is located at 415 S. State St. in Hart. The HAPL serves residents in Hart Township and the City of Hart, as well as the contracted townships of Elbridge, Weare and Crystal townships.

The HAPL Board of Trustees meetings are held the second Monday of every month in the Hart Community Center starting at 6 p.m. Library board members include Nancy Sterk, president; Penny Burillo, vice president; Juan Cortes, secretary; Todd Metzler, treasurer; Amanda Klotz, trustee; and Mary Sloan, trustee. Meeting agendas are available the Thursday before the board meeting (after 5:30 p.m.). The agenda may be requested in person at the library or via the librarian@hartpubliclibrary.org email. Hours, programs and other library services and information are available at their website at www.hartpubliclibrary.org.

Shelby Area District Library (SADL), is located at 189 Maple St., Shelby. The SADL offers library cards at no cost to patrons of Shelby, Benona, Ferry, Claybanks, Otto, and Grant townships. Grant Township residents must pay a yearly fee to access full library services. The library does offer a non-resident card for a yearly fee to those outside their service area, which allows those individuals access to in-house materials and inter-library loan (MeLCat) only.

Shelby Area District Library Board of Trustees meetings are held the fourth Tuesday of the month from 5:30-6:30 p.m. at the library. Board members include Amanda Mazur, president; Connie Near, vice president, Margaret Clune, secretary/treasurer; and Jay Burrows, Sean Carey and Jean Lewis as trustees.

Meeting agendas are available at www.shelbylibrary. org (“About Us” tab > “Board of Trustees”). Agendas are posted the Friday before each month’s board meeting. Hours, services, special programs and other important information are available at the library’s website at www.shelbylibrary.org.

The Pentwater Township Library, located at 404 E. Park St., Pentwater, serves patrons in the Village of Pentwater and Pentwater Township, as well as the library’s contracted service area of Weare Township. Individuals who are members of the Hart Area Public Library, Shelby Area District Library or Walkerville Public School Library are eligible for a Pentwater Township Library account. This account allows patrons to borrow up to 25 items (books, DVDs, CDs and Go-Bags) at a time. Please note that access to digital materials (Libby, Hoopla and Kanopy), MeLCat and some specialized resources are reserved for the Pentwater Township Library service area only.

The Pentwater Township Library Board of Trustees meetings are held the third Tuesday of every month at 5:30 p.m. in the library. Board members include Valerie Church-McHugh, president; Jennifer Gwillim, vice president; Amber Jaeb, secretary; Kendra Flynn, treasurer; Joan Lundborg, trustee; and Elly Bainbridge, trustee. Meeting agendas are posted on the library doors the day of their board meetings. Hours, services, special programs and other important information are available at the library’s website at www.pentwaterlibrary.org.

The Hesperia Community Library, located at 80 S. Division St., Hesperia, serves patrons within the Village of Hesperia, as well as Beaver, Denver, Greenwood and Newfield Townships. Non-resident library cards allow users to borrow items owned by the Hesperia Community Library and are available for a small fee. Hesperia Community Library Board of Trustees meetings are held the third Tuesday of every month at 4:30 p.m. in the library. Board members include Sonja Maynard, president; Peggy Campbell, vice president; Sandy Nielson, secretary; Cheryl Miller, treasurer; Nancy Walzer, trustee; Jayne Elenbaas, trustee;

Christine Turple, trustee; and Gary Evans, trustee. The library does have a Remote Meeting Participation Procedure document available on their website that outlines details for individuals who wish to participate in meetings remotely. Meeting agendas are available the day of for anyone requesting one or at the board meetings. Hours, services, special programs and other important information are available at the library’s website at www.hesperialibrary.org.

Walkerville Community Library is under the jurisdiction of the Walkerville Public Schools School Board. School board meetings are held the third Monday of every month at 7 p.m. The Walkerville Library is open to members of the Walkerville School District during the school year on Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 1:30-4:30 p.m.; Thursdays from 1:30-6 p.m. and Fridays from 1:30-3 p.m. The school’s phone number is 231-873-4850.

This page is brought to you by:

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

Field trip to Leland brings up

By Claire Marshall The Oceana Echo Community Columnist

This week “The 1306” is taking a field trip up north to explore some of the history of Leelanau County, the inland lake it’s named for, and the people who call the area home. It’s a history that shares many striking similarities with Oceana County and some of the topics we have already covered this past summer: the logging industry, resort communities and the importance of water and transportation to the region’s developing commerce in the late-19th and early-20th centuries.

I spent several days earlier this week in Empire, Michigan, while dog-sitting for my aunt and uncle, and while I can entertain myself for quite some time with hyperactive golden retrievers and binge-watching "The X-Files," it was only a matter of time before I started itching for a historically minded excursion. I am pretty familiar with the area along the lakeshore and figured a trip to Leelanau County’s Historical Society Museum would do me well.

It helps, of course, that the 40-minute trip from Empire to Leland, up M-22, is absolutely gorgeous. Autumn is just barely coloring the trees at Sleeping Bear with brushstrokes of gold and red, like a kindling bonfire, and historic farmhouses stand watch over century-old farmlands. I passed by several

Visit us! The Oceana County Historical & Genealogical Society is open Wednesdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Private tours are available by appointment. oceanahistory.org

similarities and memories of home

one-room schoolhouses, now converted to community buildings or private residences.

The museum was just a couple blocks away from the main stretch through downtown Leland, sitting right beside the river as it winds through town to meet Lake Michigan. It’s a beautifully done museum - and I’ve seen more than my fair share of museums - with several different exhibits that cover a variety of topics.

The first exhibit one comes across as they enter features a sampling of the many different shipwrecks that pockmark the Manitou Passage, a remarkably shallow stretch of the Lake that encapsulates North and South Manitous and the mainland. This shallow water has allowed divers and archaeologists to explore shipwrecks that might otherwise be lost, studying the wrecks as they decay and bringing back artifacts, some of which are on display. Some of the wrecks featured in this exhibit are the “Alva Bradley,” the “Rising Sun,” the “Westmoreland” and the “Three Brothers” (not to be confused with the “Three Brothers II,” the fish tug that rescued survivors from the S.S. Novadoc wreck in 1940.) The shipwreck exhibit ties neatly into the adjacent exhibit, which talks about the luxury steamship “Manitou,” though it was spared the fate of the other ships featured in the museum.

The museum is also hosting an exhibit on Sugar Loaf Ski Resort until De-

Shelby High School class of 1957

The Shelby High School class of 1957 gathered at the home of Karen and Roger Kirk to celebrate their 68th class reunion on September 5. A potluck and wonderful conversations were enjoyed by the 12 classmates and their guests. Classmates pictured above are, back row from left: Dan Usiak, Art Ash, Howard Timmer, Betty (Bennett) Patterson, Jackie (Bowers) Davenport and Janet (Beyers) Warner. Front row, from left: Karen (Sundell) Kirk, Margie (Kellogg) Helm, Sandy (Wyns) Dean, Connie (Flory) Hoffman and Evelyn (Jacobs) Harris. Bob Keeler is not pictured.

cember. What’s remarkable about this one is that it is community curated, filled with oral histories and artifacts from local residents who recall the resort in its heyday in the 1960s and 70s. The collection is expansive and recounts the history of the land from a homestead at the turn of the century to its opening in 1947, its closure in 2000, and the intervening years as the site lay abandoned. I remember several years ago my parents took me and my sister on a drive through the area, and they stopped by as close as they could to the old resort, vacant, vandalized and generally pretty unsettling. With that memory in mind, it was a nice surprise to see such a well-curated space showing the resort in happier times.

Perhaps the most visually striking exhibit was the Anishinaabek Arts Room, where a collection of hand-crafted baskets and boxes made by Ottawa, Ojibwa and Pottawatomi tribes is stored. The baskets are constructed in all shapes and sizes, primarily made from the wood of ash and basswood trees, and woven with sweetgrass. The boxes are made of birch bark and meticulously decorated with porcupine quills. A tablet in the center of the low-lit storage room (perfect for the preservation of fragile, organic materials such as what makes up these boxes and baskets) provides a wealth of information on the Anishinaabek people, their crafts and the valuable, natural materials.

My favorite exhibit, however, was the "Life on Lake Leelanau" exhibit, much of which was made to supplement the short film featured in the exhibit, “Lake Leelanau: The Spirit of the Lake.” The film explores the geography and health of Lake Leelanau, the people that came to settle there and the towns that populate the lake today. The film itself was awarded the State History Award by the Michigan Historical Society last year. It’s no wonder why, as the film is well researched, beautifully shot and I’m pretty sure I watched it three times on loop in the exhibit. What stuck with me most from the exhibit was one section of wall that was designed to look like the inside of a cabin and decorated with items one would expect to find in an early 1900s cottage. For a second, I was transported back home, as I thought I was looking at our own Boynton summer cottage here in Mears.

Hart High School class of 1958

The Hart High School class of 1958 recently met at Open Hearth Grille in Mears to celebrate their 67th class reunion. Classmates pictured above, back row, from left, are Frank Schramm, Arleen Frost, Barry Griffin, Cal Ackley, Bob Dodds and Marcia Morley. Front row, seated, from left are Carol Dodds, Mary Haas, Marilyn Walsworth, Loraine Wagner and Judy Haight.

Ongoing

3rd MON: OCDVA Coffee & Donuts for Veterans, Spouses and Veteran Widows, 9-11 a.m., Heritage Wedding Barn, Shelby.

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 satelliteplease call 231-861-4880 to make an appointment.

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.

* Donate returnable cans and bottles to the Hart VFW. Drop off at the hall or call Steve at 231-873-1727 for pick-up.*

2nd & 4th WED: Pentwater Community Food Pantry, First Baptist Church, Pentwater, 9-10:15 a.m.

Every other WED: Shelby Optimist Club meetings, Stony Lake Inn, 7-8 p.m. (Sept-May)

TH: Pentwater Farmers Market, Village Green, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

THURS - "Harts 'n Homes" Women's Fellowship, Faith Christian Fellowship, 400 S. State St.,10 a.m. to 1 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:

Sept. 26: Live Music by the Jammers, 10 a.m. to noon.

Oct. 6: Blanket Finger-Knitting Class, 6-8 p.m. (sign up by 9/29)

Nov. 10: Blanket Finger-Knitting Class, 6-8 p.m. (sign up by 11/3)

The Huddle: 6th-12th grade after-school program," M-F 3-5 p.m.

Adult Hours: M-F 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

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

Car Seat Check Event set for Sept. 25 in Shelby

Shelby Public Schools, Oceana County Sheriff’s Office, Safe Kids West Michigan and Trinity Health present a Car Seat Check Event Sept. 25 from 4-6 p.m. at Shelby Elementary School, 1285 Oceana Dr., Shelby.

Three out of four car seats are not used or installed correctly. This event offers the opportunity to have one's car seat(s) checked by certified technicians. Learn how to install a child’s car seat or booster seat, and find out if it’s time for a change. Walk-ins are welcome, and replacement car seats will be available on a first needed, first served basis. For questions, please email alwayh@trinity-health.org

HMS to host Chicken Shack fundraiser Sept. 26

Hart Middle School is hosting a Chicken Shack Fundraiser Dinner Friday, Sept. 26 from 5-7 p.m. at the Hart High School Auxillary Gym.

The meal costs $14 each or four meals for $50. The dinner includes a half chicken, baked potato, coleslaw and a dinner roll. Takeout is available.

Tickets need to be purchased in advance by Tuesday, Sept. 23. To purchase tickets, stop by Hart Middle School, or visit: http://gofan.co/event/4530140?schoolId=MI80648.

There are also prize raffles and a silent auction. All proceeds will be used for resources to enhance the educational experience and opportunities for students at Hart Middle School.

S eptember

Sept. 19 - Library Card Sign-Up Celebration, SADL, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Sept. 20 - Stewardship Day: At the Beach, sponsored by Oceana Conservation District, Cedar Point County Park, 9-11 a.m.

Sept. 20 - New Era Street Festival, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Sept. 20 - Oceana Farm Bureau Annual Meeting, W. MI Research Station, 4 p.m. Tours; 5:30 p.m. Dinner & Business Meeting.

Sept. 20 - Hispanic Heritage Festival, downtown Hart, 5:30-9:30 p.m.

Sept. 21 - Pre-See You At The Pole Rally, New Era Bible Church, 6 p.m.

Sept. 23 - Unlock the Secrets of the Library, HCL, 10-10:30 a.m., Adult Book Club, 2-3 p.m., Family Fun Night, 6-7 p.m.

Sept. 23 - Versiti Blood Drive, NECRC, 12:30-6 p.m.

Sept. 23 - Soup and Chili Fellowship, Rothbury CC, 6:30 p.m.

Sept. 24 - Decorative Wooden Bookmark workshop SADL, 3:30 p.m.

Sept. 25 - Harvest Day, last Farmers Market, Pentwater

Sept. 25 - Car Seat Check Event, Shelby Elementary, 4-6 p.m.

Sept. 25 - Feeding America Mobile Food Pantry (walk up), Shelby Road Baptist Church, Shelby, 5 p.m.

Sept. 26 - Stewardship Day: On The Roadside, OCD, meet at MDOT parking lot on Polk Road, 9-11 a.m.

Sept. 26 - Oceana Economic Alliance Developer Day, 9 a.m.

Sept. 26 - Feeding America Mobile Food Pantry (drive through), Spitler Elementary School, Hart, 5 p.m.

Sept. 26 - Swiss Steak Dinner, Hart VFW, 5-7 p.m.

Sept. 26 - Shelby High School Homecoming Parade, 5 p.m.

Sept 27-28 - Harvest Festival, Pentwater, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The Hispanic Heritage Festival is Sept. 20 in Hart

Enjoy a taste of local Hispanic culture at Oceana County’s Annual Hispanic Heritage Festival, Saturday, Sept. 20 from 5:30-9:30 p.m. in downtown Hart.

This event is being sponsored by the Oceana Hispanic Center (OHC) as well as many other community businesses and contributors. An agency fair, with many local agencies represented, will take place from 5:30-7 p.m. To be entered for a chance to win one of the door prizes on Saturday, pick up a ticket from the OHC tent, visit the booths and have the card marked by the agency. Cards with all signatures will be entered into the drawing, which will start at 6:45 p.m. Entrants must be present to win.

Attendees can enjoy authentic Mexican food options and music from the band Grupo Monte from 6-9:30 p.m. Grupo Monte comes from the Motor City. They are a Mexican music band specializing in traditional Norteño music with a bit of modern style. Fireworks are scheduled for 9:30 p.m. as the event finale.

This event is geared for the entire family, and no alcohol is permitted. Questions may be directed to the Oceana Hispanic Center, 11 Washington St., Hart or by calling or texting Irma Hinojosa at 231-742-2264.

El Festival de la Herencia Hispana es el 20 de septiembre en Hart

Disfruta de un sabor de la cultura hispana local en el Festival Anual de la Herencia Hispana del Condado de Oceana, el sábado 20 de septiembre de 5:30 a 9:30 p.m. en el centro de Hart.

Este evento está siendo patrocinado por el Centro Hispano de Oceana (OHC) así como por muchas otras empresas y colaboradores de la comunidad. Una feria de agencias, con muchas agencias locales representadas, se llevará a cabo de 5:30 a 7 p.m. Para tener la oportunidad de ganar uno de los premios de entrada el sábado, recoja un boleto en la carpa de OHC, visite los puestos y haga que la agencia marque la tarjeta. Las tarjetas con todas las firmas serán ingresadas en el sorteo, que comenzará a las 6:45 p.m. Los participantes deben estar presentes para ganar.

Los asistentes pueden disfrutar de opciones auténticas de comida mexicana y música de la banda Grupo Monte de 6 a 9:30 p.m. Grupo Monte viene de la Ciudad del Motor. Son una banda de música mexicana especializada en música tradicional Norteña con un toque moderno. Los fuegos artificiales están programados para las 9:30 p.m. como el gran final del evento.

Este evento está dirigido a toda la familia, y no se permite el alcohol. Las preguntas pueden dirigirse al Centro Hispano de Oceana, 11 Washington St., Hart o llamando o enviando un mensaje de texto a Irma Hinojosa al 231-742-2264.

The Weare Township Planning Commission has canceled the regular meeting that was scheduled for September 30th at 7PM, and announces the new meeting date as October 3 at 2PM in the Weare Township Hall.

In Loving Memory of our Family, Friends and Neighbors

obituarie S

Gregorio V. Luevano

May 25, 1940 ~ September 15, 2025

Gregorio V. Luevano, 85, of Walkerville, passed away Monday, September 15, 2025. He was born May 25, 1940, in Edinburg, Texas, the son of Jose Tereso and Estanislada (Villarreal) Luevano.

On April 5, 1964, Greg married Hilary (Barrera) Luevano in Violet, Texas, and they moved to Michigan shortly after to start their lives together. They were married for 56 wonderful years.

In Greg’s younger years, he owned and operated a trucking company and loved being on the open road, experiencing the different areas our country has to offer. Likewise, he also loved telling people about his truck ing days gone by; he was a magnificent storyteller.

Greg enjoyed having fun and spending time with family and friends, especially his grandchildren. He was a skilled pilot and absolutely loved flying his Cessna plane. He also enjoyed going out dancing and was very good at playing the accordion.

Greg was also a mechanical mastermind, working tirelessly for over 57 years at Chase Farms, now Arbre Farms in Oceana County, in their maintenance department. He was responsible for fabricating and maintaining many of the machines still in operation today.

Greg is survived by: his daughter, Amanda (Matthew) Adams; grandchildren, Haidyn Adams and Devyn Adams; and siblings, San Juanita Luevano Lopez and Mara Luevano Barco.

Greg was preceded in death by: his parents, Jose Tereso and Estanislada Luevano; his loving wife, Hilary Luevano; and siblings, Silvestre Luevano, Dora Luevano Solis, Victor Luevano, Pablo Luevano, Hilario G. Luevano, Domingo Luevano, Eva L. Berumen and Angelita Luevano Soto.

Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at noon, Saturday, September 20, 2025, at St. Gregory Catholic Church, 214 S. Peach Ave., Hart, MI 49420, with Fr. Juan Palomar presiding. Visitation will be held Saturday from 10 a.m. until time of Mass at the church. Interment will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery, Weare Township. Beacon Cremation & Funeral Service, King-Hart Chapel, is in charge of arrangements.

Dianne Lee Campbell

April 9, 1955 ~ September 14, 2025

Dianne Lee Campbell, 70, of Walkerville, passed away Sunday, September 14, 2025. She was born April 9, 1955, in Muskegon, the daughter of Franklin and Ruth (Hartman) Sallgren.

On August 12, 1978, Dianne married Hugh M. Campbell, and they spent 47 years together, raising two children in Whitehall, before retiring to her dream home on School Section Lake.

Dianne graduated from Reeths-Puffer High School in 1973, where she won a prestigious county-wide secretarial contest. After high school, she received her Associate’s before working in accounting.

She was an avid reader, student of history and lover of nature, particularly loons. She and Mike (Hugh) enjoyed car hikes throughout Michigan; exploring parks, small towns and local diners. She also traveled to Sweden, Australia and Italy. She was a phenomenal (self-taught) piano player. Most of all, she enjoyed spending time with and caring for her family.

Dianne is survived by: her husband, Hugh; daughter, Katherina Campbell; son, Stuart (Molly) Campbell; and her grandchildren, Jane, Ciaran and Alasdair.

Dianne was preceded in death by: her parents; and brother, Thomas Sallgren.

In accordance with Dianne’s wishes, cremation has taken place, and a Celebration of Life will be held for close friends and family in the weeks to come.

Beacon Cremation & Funeral Service, White Lake Chapel, is in charge of arrangements. www.beaconfh.com

Evening activities planned for Pre-See You At The Pole Rally

See You At The Pole (SYATP), an annual student-led effort, gathers students, faculty, staff and the public around school flagpoles every September for the purpose of praying for their schools, students and the year ahead. The very first SYATP event was held on September 12, 1990 in Burleson, Texas. This year’s SYATP will be held around school flagpoles at several local schools Wednesday, Sept. 24.

A pre-event rally is planned for Sunday, September 21, 2025 beginning at 6 p.m. at the New Era Bible Church located at 5308 S. Oceana Dr., and is open to all Oceana County students for a time of fun, music, teaching and prayer. The rally theme is “Awe” and is an “all-in” effort to inspire students to participate in this year’s SYATP events on their respective campuses. Students are encouraged to wear their school colors and to invite other students from their schools to attend. There will be live music, activities, prizes, a biblical challenge and of course, prayer.

For more information about the pre-event rally, please contact Pastor Mike Dublois of New Era Bible Church at pastormikednebc@gmail.com.

The Shelby High School elected 2025 Homecoming Court is pictured above. Back row, from left are,

2nd OCEA Developer Day planned for September 26

The Oceana County Economic Alliance (OCEA) is pleased to announce the second Oceana Developer Day to be held on Friday, Sept. 26, starting at Valley City Metals in Rothbury at 9 a.m.

Oceana Developer Day returns for the second time to highlight opportunities in Oceana County for industrial, housing and downtown mixed-use developments. This program is a full-day bus tour highlighting several sites prime for development as well as some projects already in progress throughout Oceana County.

“We are excited to bring back Oceana Developer Day to show off successes and opportunities in Oceana County,” said organizer and OCEA board member Larry Byl. “Our program focuses on show-and-tell, visiting sites by bus and the tour will invite walking through some locations. We talk about our community and projects throughout the tours, but there are no formal presentations.”

Participants are invited to park at Valley City Metals in Rothbury, and the bus will leave at 9:15 a.m. and return to Valley City Metals at 3:15 p.m.

Oceana Developer Day plans to visit the following locations:

Nicole Ortiz; Seniors Bailey Dickman, Zoe Cornaby, Elaina Davis, Olivia Palazzola and Laney Stovall; Sophomore Olivia Casaraz and Junior Hali Hayes.

• Contributed Photo

Spirit week starts Monday for Shelby Public Schools

Shelby Public Schools' 2025 Homecoming theme this year is "Tigers Around the World," with each high school class focusing on the following destinations:

• Freshmen: Egypt

• Sophomores: Paris

• Juniors: New York

• Seniors: Rio De Janeiro

Their spirit week begins Sept. 22 and is filled with the following dress-up days: Monday - Jetlag/Pajama Day, Twin

Tuesday, "Wednesday we wear pink.", Thursday - Tourist Day and Friday is the traditional class colors and Toga Day.

Students will be competing in a pickleball tournament during lunch all week as well as holding a powderpuff tournament at the end of the day Wednesday. Golf cart and banner decorating will be happening after school and into the evening on Wednesday as well. The annual pep assembly and parade will take place Friday, Sept. 26.

Little Libraries available as part of RERO program

By Sharon Hallack

The Oceana Echo Community Correspondent

Read Early Read Often (RERO) is a campaign many are familiar with. This community-wide initiative is focused on promoting literacy by encouraging parents and caregivers to read to infants and toddlers from birth. “Reading aloud to children, even before a child can speak, helps build their brain, develop language skills and prepare them for success in school and life,” Teresa Mead, RERO coordinator shared.

The RERO program loves sharing the gift of reading at local community events, through their Little Libraries program or at Literacy Corners. If you’re in the neighborhood, be sure to check one of them out!

Little Libraries are specially designed book boxes mounted on posts and installed in a variety of places throughout Oceana County. Locations include: Cherry Point (9600 W. Buchanan Rd., Shelby), Crystal Valley (1547 E. Hammett Rd., Crystal Valley), Ferry (2175 E. Ferry St., Ferry), Downtown Hart (49 S. State St.), Hart Schools (125 Johnson St., Hart), Hesperia (1972 S. 186th Ave., Hesperia), Mears (5645 W. Fox Rd. and 8711 W. Silver Lake Rd., Mears),

New Era Christian School (1901 Oak Ave., New Era), Pentwater (600 E. Park St., Pentwater), Shelby Community Park (4101 Buchanan Rd., Shelby), Shelby Early Childhood Center (155 E. Sixth St., Shelby), Getty Park (62 E. Sixth St., Shelby), Stony Lake (4724 Scenic Dr., Shelby), and Walkerville (170 North St., Walkerville).

Literacy Corners are spaces sponsored by businesses and organizations to promote early literacy. Parents and caregivers can find Literacy Corners at all Shelby State Bank lo-

cations, Dr. Phares Family Dentistry (downtown New Era), and Rothbury Village Hall (7804 S. Michigan Ave., Rothbury). “Early literacy can help children develop skills that are important for future academic success and lifelong learning,” said Mead. Read Early, Read Often is a partnership between the Oceana Community Foundation and the Mason, Lake, Oceana Great Start Collaborative. For further information. please contact Mead at teresa@oceanafoundation. org.

• Rothbury: The tour starts at Valley City Metals in Rothbury, where the oldest section of the former steel mill is currently being demolished to make way for an outdoor community space.

• New Era: Participants will board the charter bus and visit a former elementary school in New Era with a few undeveloped acres on the property.

• Shelby: The tour will visit a former church facility in downtown Shelby with a few undeveloped acres and an undeveloped site on the south end of the Village of Shelby, followed by a walking tour in downtown Shelby. The tour includes a visit to the new Shelby Acres housing development.

• Hart: The tour will visit a vacant downtown site prime for residential/commercial redevelopment as well as the planned West Shore Community College campus.

• Walkerville: The tour includes visits to the remodel underway at KwikMart, which is a locally owned convenience store and gas station and is the first Brownfield Plan project in Oceana County.

• Pentwater: The tour includes a visit to the former village hall building located in a prime downtown location.

“Our last event focused on sites in the Hart area, and this Oceana Developer Day will highlight Shelby as well as our first Developer Day visit to Walkerville,” said OCEA Executive Director Curtis Burdette. “There’s so much happening in Oceana County that we tried to get as many projects and sites into this trip, knowing that there is much more happening than we could highlight in a day.”

There is no cost to join the tour, and a light lunch will be provided. Reservations are currently being accepted here: https:// lp.constantcontactpages. com/ev/reg/x2ch5wj

Contact Curtis Burdette at burdettec@rightplace.org for more information.

PENTWATER TOWNSHIP

Synopsis of Meeting

September 10, 2025

Supervisor Cavazos called the September 10th Regular Township Board meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. with all five Board members present. The meeting was conducted in person and via Zoom. Two staff members and four community members were present in person, and one person was present via Zoom. The Consent and Meeting Agendas were approved as presented. Action/acceptance was taken on the following items:

• Approval/adoption of Paid Sick Leave policy

• Resolution to approve District Library Agreement

• Resolution to approve District Library Agreement attachments

• Resolution to approve District Library initial Board members

• Approval of annual service agreement with Adams Heating & Cooling

• Approval of Professional Services Agreement with Plante Moran accounting services

• Approval of annual service agreement with Ryan’s Lawn Care

• Approval of Pentwater Township’s Citizen of the Year Proclamation

• Approval of revised fee structure for Zoning Ordinance services

• Resolution approving rate increase for Township South Sanitary Sewer Systems

The meeting was adjourned at 7:07 p.m.

A copy of the complete Minutes are available from the Clerk at the Pentwater Township offices, 500 N Hancock St. during regular business hours, via email , or online at www.pentwatertownshipmi.gov.

- Maureen Murphy, Clerk

PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE

CLAYBANKS TOWNSHIP PLANNING COMMISSION

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN Notice is Hereby Given that Claybanks Township Planning Commission, Oceana County, will conduct a public hearing meeting on October 2, 2025, at 6:00 pm at the Claybanks United Methodist Church, located at 9197 S. 56th Ave. Montague, MI, 49437.

The purpose of this Public Hearing is to hear a Special Use Permit Application from SMJ International to construct a 195 ft. self-support Communications Tower with a 4’ lightning rod within a 65’ x 65’ fenced compound in a 100’ x 100’ leased area with a driveway off S. 38th Avenue. The Property Address is 7304 W. Winston Rd., Montague, MI 49437 (Parcel #64-016-021-200-04).

Questions regarding the Special Land Use Permit application may be directed to Sara Bizon, Zoning Administrator at zoning@claybankstownship.org or 231-3018045.

MANY BLESSINGS Mkt

Our Mkt building is open as available We feature homemade jam, pie filling, honey, maple syrup and craft items

Available: fall decor, pumpkins, new potatoes, garlic and many varieties of winter squash Self-serve open 24/7 for fresh produce Located 1/2 mile E. of Crystal Valley on Madison Rd. Please call to confirm product or to place orders (231)

• Jill Whitaker

Freshmen: Elijah Salgado-Estrada; Seniors Camden Smith, Alex Dealmonte, Andrew Hayes, Isaac Garcia and Elijah Kelley; Sophomore Leighton Belasco and Junior Wyatt Bozeman. Front Row: Freshmen

CUSTOMER

• On Sept. 22, 1888, National Geographic magazine published its first issue, without photos. The publication had so few subscribers that its editor, Gilbert H. Grosvenor, addressed each copy and carried them to the post office himself.

FROM KING FEATURES WEEKLY SERVICE,

By Lucie Winborne

FROM KING FEATURES WEEKLY SERVICE,

300 W. 57th STREET, 15th FLOOR, NEW YORK, NY 10019

NOW HERE’S A TIP #12345_20250908 FOR RELEASE SEPT. 8, 2025

By JoAnn Derson

• On Sept. 23, 1992, Manon Rheaume became the first woman to play in one of the four major men’s North American pro sports leagues when she stepped on the ice as goalie for the NHL’s Tampa Bay Lightning in a preseason game. Admitting to being “very nervous,” she also noted that part of her admission was “for publicity,” but added that it was “still a chance to play. That’s what I care about.”

By Lucie Winborne

CUSTOMER SERVICE: (800) 708-7311 EXT.

257

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By JoAnn Derson

• Frugal doesn’t have to mean unfashionable. There are plenty of how-to instructions on the internet for turning fashion trash into treasure. For starters, try searching how to turn an old T-shirt into a skirt with a minimum of fuss, then explore sites like Pinterest and Instructables.com for more projects.

• The world’s tiniest robot is smaller than a grain of salt.

than a grain of salt.

ANIMAL SHELTER

Hi folks, it’s me—Dean the Dream! I’m 8 months old, part pittie, part pogo stick and fully committed to making you laugh until you snort louder than I do.

My greatest hits include:

-The “zoomie tornado” routine (hold onto your socks).

-The classic “oops, was that YOUR sandwich?” act.

-My famous snort-snore symphony while sleeping upside down.

I’m certified in making dog friends, entertaining kids, and providing unlimited comedy, love, and wiggles. Basically, I’m not just a dog—I’m your new favorite late-night show. Adopt me today and prepare to live in a sitcom where I steal every scene.

So whaddya say? Ready to give Dean the Dream his forever stage?

Dean 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 are also available at the OCEANA County Animal Shelter.

• On Sept. 24, 1902, cookbook author Fannie Farmer, who changed the way Americans prepared food by advocating for the use of standardized measurements in recipes, opened Miss Farmer’s School of Cookery in Boston. Farmer not only taught women how to cook, but later instructed medical professionals on nutrition for the sick.

By Lucie Winborne

On Sept. 25, 1890, religious leaders issued the “Mormon Manifesto,” which ordered all Latter-day Saints to uphold America’s anti-polygamy laws. The men were given little choice in the decision, as they faced federal confiscation of their temples and revocation of church members’ basic civil rights for failure to comply.

• On Sept. 26, 1996, biochemist and U.S. astronaut Shannon Lucid returned to Earth in the U.S. Space Shuttle Atlantis after six months in orbit aboard the Russian space station Mir. She was the first American woman to live in a space station.

• On Sept. 27, 622, the prophet Muhammad completed his Hegira, or “flight,” from Mecca to Medina to escape persecution. In Medina, he set about building the followers of his religion, Islam, into an organized community and Arabian power. The Hegira would later mark the beginning of the Muslim calendar.

• On Sept. 28, 1850, Congress voted to end flogging on both naval and merchant vessels. Until then, seamen were often punished by being stripped to the waist and subjected to lashes on their backs with whips called cat-o’nine-tails.

• On Sept. 27, 622, the prophet Muhammad completed his Hegira, or “flight,” from Mecca to Medina to escape persecution. In Medina, he set about building the followers of his religion, Islam, into an organized com munity and Arabian power. The Hegi ra would later mark the beginning of the Muslim calendar.

ed to end flogging on both naval and merchant vessels. Until then, seamen were often punished by being stripped to the waist and subjected to lashes on their backs with whips called cat-o’nine-tails.

Want a fun way to save? Pick a particular currency item (maybe a $5 bill or dimes) and every time you get one, put it in a jar. See how much you save in a month doing this. See how long you can go without missing the money.

• “To clean a vase with an impossibly skinny neck, try adding a scoop of rice to a little hot water and dish soap. Shake to scrub.” — M.M. in Indiana

• Want a fun way to save? Pick a particular currency item (maybe a $5 bill or dimes) and every time you get one, put it in a jar. See how much you save in a month doing this. See how long you can go without missing the money.

• A better use for soda: Use it to scrub your pots and pans. If you have grime and slime, try letting the acids in soda pop work it out for you. Pour enough soda to cover the bottom of the pots or pans and let soak for 5-10 minutes. Then scrub away.

• “To clean a vase with an impossibly skinny neck, try adding a scoop of rice to a little hot water and dish soap. Shake to scrub.” — M.M. in Indiana

• “When the weather starts to dry out and along with it my skin, I turn to coconut oil. I keep a jar in the bathroom, and I apply it even before I get out of the shower. My skin gets really red and torn up otherwise. I thought this might help other people.” — K.S. in Massachusetts

• When choosing an airline seat, you should know that you’ll feel less turbulence at the front of the cabin. Exit rows have more legroom, but they tend to be colder as well. Sound carries forward, so if you don’t want to be bothered by the little ones or random chatter, sit toward the back.

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

2025 King Features Synd., Inc.

SHELBY TOWNSHIP

Synopsis of Meeting

September 02, 2025

Regular meeting called to order at 6:00 pm

Present: Becky Griffin, Cathy Anderson, Scott Meyers, Richard Raffaelli and 7 members of the public. Resigned – Cindy Rapes

Items approved:

• Minutes from 08/04/2025 regular board meeting, and 8/13/2025 special board meeting

• Resolution 250902-1 increase capital threshold

• New Trustee Member: Scott Beishuizen

• Pay bills presented by Clerk

Copies of meeting minutes are available from the Township and approved minutes are on our website www.shelbytownshipoceana.com

By Lucie Winborne

• The world’s tiniest robot is smaller than a grain of salt.

• Despite what you see when you gaze at the night sky, the moon’s actually shaped like a lemon, with flattened poles and bulges on its near and far sides around its equator.

• In Utah, birds have the right of way on a highway.

• Despite what you see when you gaze at the night sky, the moon’s actually shaped like a lemon, with flattened poles and bulges on its near and far sides around its equator.

• In Utah, birds have the right of way on a highway.

By Lucie Winborne

• What’s in a name? Well, a casket is a rectangular box with a lid, and a coffin is a six-sided box that’s wider at the shoulders and narrower at the feet. In America, caskets are more commonly used than coffins.

• The world’s tiniest robot is smaller than a grain of salt.

• On the Titanic, more than 700 thirdclass passengers had to share just two bathtubs.

• Despite what you see when you gaze at the night sky, the moon’s actually shaped like a lemon, with flattened poles and bulges on its near and far sides around its equator.

• On the Titanic, more than 700 thirdclass passengers had to share just two bathtubs.

• In Utah, birds have the right of way on a highway.

• Black and orange are the traditional colors of Halloween because the ancient Celts believed black symbolized the “death” of summer and orange represented the fall harvest.

• For the film “A Star Is Born,” Bradley Cooper spent six months with a dialect coach trying to imitate Sam Elliott’s voice, before he knew Elliott would be cast as his brother.

• On the Titanic, more than 700 thirdclass passengers had to share just two bathtubs.

• For the film “A Star Is Born,” Bradley Cooper spent six months with a dialect coach trying to imitate Sam Elliott’s voice, before he knew Elliott would be cast as his brother.

• Some female sharks store sperm after mating, potentially holding on to it for years before they’re ready to reproduce.

• Black and orange are the traditional colors of Halloween because the ancient Celts believed black symbolized the “death” of summer and orange represented the fall harvest.

• When trick-or-treating began gaining popularity in the 1930s, adults worried that kids “threatening” people with tricks if they didn’t get candy would encourage them to become criminals later in life.

• Some female sharks store sperm after mating, potentially holding on to it for years before they’re ready to reproduce.

• For the film “A Star Is Born,” Bradley Cooper spent six months with a dialect coach trying to imitate Sam Elliott’s voice, before he knew Elliott would be cast as his brother.

• The first cigarette lighter was invented three years before the first friction match.

• In 1993, a Mexican zoo owner was arrested for illegally purchasing an FBI agent in a gorilla suit, thinking the agent was an actual gorilla.

• Some female sharks store sperm after mating, potentially holding on to it for years before they’re ready to reproduce.

• The first cigarette lighter was invented three years before the first friction match.

• In 1993, a Mexican zoo owner was arrested for illegally purchasing an FBI agent in a gorilla suit, thinking the agent was an actual gorilla.

• On his deathbed, Steve Jobs asked for five different oxygen masks so he could choose the one with the best design.

***

• On his deathbed, Steve Jobs asked for five different oxygen masks so he could choose the one with the best design.

Thought for the Day: “To acquire knowledge, one must study, but to acquire wisdom, one must observe.” — Marilyn vos Savant

• The first cigarette lighter was invented three years before the first friction match.

*** Thought for the Day: “To acquire knowledge, one must study, but to acquire wisdom, one must observe.” — Marilyn vos Savant

• In 1993, a Mexican zoo owner was arrested for illegally purchasing an FBI agent in a gorilla suit, thinking the

• On his deathbed, Steve Jobs asked for five different oxygen masks so he could choose the one with the best

“To acquire knowledge, one must study, but to acquire wisdom, one must observe.” —

SEALED BID NOTICE

VILLAGE OF SHELBY

Date: 9/17/2025

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. All bids must be made on the sealed bid form; the bid will be awarded to the highest bidder. The Village of Shelby retains the right to reject any or all bids.

Submission Deadline: Sealed bids must be dropped off by 11:50 AM on October 3, 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 231-8614400 ext. 5 or email droesler@shelbyvillage. com with questions or for more information. Bid opening will be at 12:00 PM on October 3, 2025 at the Shelby Village Hall.

2025 King Features Synd., Inc.

This win tasted extra sweet

Shelby hoists the Blood, Sweat & Tears Jug for first time in 6 years after defeating Hart

By Andy Roberts

The Oceana Echo Community Contributor

SHELBY — The Shelby Tigers could hardly wait to take turns miming taking drinks out of the Blood, Sweat and Tears Jug after Friday night’s 28-18 triumph over Hart, the first time since 2019 that the team in purple won the coveted rivalry trophy.

It was a win treasured by all the Tigers’ faithful, certainly including coach Phil Fortier, who earned his first Jug as the head coach.

“It means everything,” Fortier said. “If I had a dime for every time I heard somebody say, ‘That’s the one you’ve got to win. You don’t have to win many around here, but you’ve got to win that one.’

“There were absolutely so many dudes running around on the field tonight, so determined, so unselfish, so disciplined, and they gave such a great effort. So proud to be their coach.”

The contest was mostly made up of the two teams pounding the ball on the ground in a war of attrition, but for Shelby (2-1, 1-1 West Michigan Conference Rivers), the difference came on two huge plays born of getting athletes the ball in open space.

The first was an 86-yard kickoff return touchdown by Elijah Dashiell in response to Hart’s first scoring drive. Dashiell’s lightning bolt was a major change of pace after the teams had each methodically worked down the field for touchdowns on their first drives of the game, each tak-

ing over eight minutes to do it.

The second came right on the heels of the Tigers making the night’s first big defensive stop, stonewalling Hart at the 22-yard line on fourth down to start the third quarter. Just a couple of plays later, Jaylin Henderson dropped back and found Trevor Weiss on a quick slant. Weiss did the rest, racing to the house with a 74-yard touchdown that put the Tigers up by eight points, 20-12.

“Out of the receiver group, he is not the fastest guy, but he was the fastest guy today after he caught that ball, man,” Fortier said. “Holy cow. I’d like to time that 40(-yard dash) now.”

“Trevor and I mess around sometimes at practice,” Henderson said. “I love Trevor. He’s really a good guy. My and his chemistry is just really good. On that (play), I saw him wide open, so I threw it, and I already knew he was going for a touchdown.”

The Pirates did not fold, though, going into the end zone two possessions later when Kyle Greiner pounded in his second score. However, Shelby was able to turn back the tying two-point conversion and maintained the lead.

After the Tigers converted several key first downs - including a third-and-15 scramble by Henderson, who ran for 79 yards in all - Hart (2-1, 1-1 WMC Rivers) intentionally allowed a touchdown in hopes of getting the ball back down eight points. However, Shelby nixed that plan by converting the two-point attempt, and Hart was left to wonder what could have been had it not twice been stopped inside the

“We just didn’t finish drives, and you’ve just got to do that,” Hart coach Joe Tanis said. “We talked nonstop about winning in the red zone. That’s one thing we cover every Monday morning. Unfortunately, we’re going to be covering that this Monday morning, and it’s not going to be as fun as covering last week’s.”

The loss spoiled a terrific effort from Greiner, who carried the ball 30 times for 194 yards and a pair of scores. Despite his lack of size - he’s listed at 5-6 - Greiner runs with remarkable tenacity and even invites contact, as evidenced by one play on which he grabbed a Tiger defender before a collision and dragged him another few yards. Halen Boos took a back seat to Greiner Friday, but at a similar size, he runs with the same refusal to yield.

“You’ve got 5-6, 150 or 160-pound dudes, but they play with such big hearts,” Tanis said. “They are such tough runners. I absolutely love those kids. We’re not the

Tigers win jug continued on page 10

Shelby shows improvement in solid Whitehall Tri effort

By Andy Roberts

Oceana Echo Community Contributor

WHITEHALL — It was a long night for Shelby at the Whitehall Tri last Thursday, as the Tigers played two matches that each went the maximum three games. Shelby went 1-1, rallying to beat Whitehall 25-27, 25-17, 25-20, and falling to Kent City 25-20, 19-25, 25-22.

The Tigers were very impressive against Whitehall, bouncing back from a close game one defeat to control most of the remaining two games. They hit .233 for the match, with a strong two-way performance by Briar

Peters (18 digs, 10 kills) leading the way. Peters also had five aces.

“One of the things we emphasized earlier in the week, following our loss (to Hart) on Tuesday, was the need for our hitters to be more aggressive and finish points more efficiently, and they definitely made that adjustment against both Whitehall and Kent City,” Shelby coach McKenna Peters said. “Our defense was a huge part in why we were able to hit more efficiently. They were gritty and picked up balls that we hadn’t been in previous games.”

Tigers at tri continued on page 10

Shelby 25-yard line.

Shelby’s Max Hagstrom was one of many Tigers to take celebratory ‘drinks’ from the Blood, Sweat and Tears Jug Friday night after the Tigers topped rival Hart, 28-18. • Andy Roberts/Echo

Shelby’s Jaylin Henderson (right) tries to pull down a deep pass during Friday’s rivalry game against Hart. The Tigers pulled out a 28-18 win. • Andy Roberts/Echo

Hart’s Kyle Greiner gets ready to greet Shelby’s DayDay Garcia for a collision during Friday night’s WMC Rivers game at Shelby. Despite Greiner’s 194 rushing yards, the Tigers won, 28-18.

• Andy Roberts/Echo

The

Shelby’s Peyton Rapes goes to the floor to keep a ball in play during a match against Whitehall at last Thursday’s Whitehall Tri. Rapes helped the Tigers to a 1-1 record at the tri. • Andy Roberts/Echo

County squads continue growth at Hart Jamboree

By Andy Roberts

The Oceana Echo Community Contributor

HART — The young Hart and Hesperia teams continued to cut their teeth against the West Michigan Conference’s best Monday at the Hart jamboree. The Pirates finished in sixth place at home with a team score of 451, and the Panthers were ninth with a score of 542.

Hart’s Reese Smith was the county’s top scorer at the jamboree, shooting a 102, good for 19th place. Smith made par four times during her round. The most remarkable development, though, might have been the play of Makenna Carrier. The team’s fourth-seeded player had the

best day of her young career, shooting a 109.

Kennedy Symons posted a 120 for Hart, and Ali Flem-

Tigers at tri

Kylie Brown was at the service line for a key scoring run by the Tigers (410) in game three against Whitehall that helped lead to the win. She also led the offense on the night with 17 kills. Shelby’s serving was dynamic much of the night, with Brylee Friedman’s eight aces tops among a trio of Tigers who had at least five. Peters led the defense with 32 digs, and setter Peyton Rapes lined up 46 assists.

Shelby had chances to knock off Kent City as well, grabbing a 10-3 lead in game one before the Eagles stormed back to win that. After a strong performance in game two, Shelby seized an early 8-1 lead in game three and led for almost the entire game until Kent City surged late to steal the win and the match.

Peters credited Ariana Garza with good defensive work against Kent

ing wasn’t far behind with a 122. Sarissa Conkle notched Hesperia’s best score of the

continued from page 9

• Andy Roberts/Echo

City, as she tallied 15 digs in that match alone.

“Serve receive was much more consistent, and we were able to get our setter in a good spot to run our middles, Kylie and Hali (Hayes), more efficiently,” Peters said.

Tigers win jug

biggest. We’re not the most talented, but man, our kids play hard, and they play together. Unfortunately tonight we came up short.”

Shelby, meanwhile, continued to enjoy success with its unorthodox two-quarterback system of Henderson and Isaac Garcia, who ran in the Tigers’ first touchdown Friday. Most similar systems are put in because one signal-caller throws and the other runs, but at Shelby it’s not quite that simple. Both players are very good athletes - they each play wide receiver if not behind center - but do possess slightly different skill sets, Fortier said. Friday, Henderson ended up taking the bulk of the snaps.

“We think Jaylin’s a bigger, tougher runner,” Fortier said. “He throws the deep ball better. Isaac reads the option better. He’s more accurate with the football. So we deploy those guys sometimes with a plan, and sometimes we deploy them on feel. Tonight was the feel, and we just felt like Jaylin gave us our best chance, especially with his ability to run and break tackles, so that’s where we went.”

“The athletes they have, with (running back Brody) Fessenden, Jaylin and Garcia, they’re tough to defend, and they played their best game that I’ve seen them play,” Tanis added. “They played the cleanest ball they’ve played. You just give hats off to them.”

continued from page 9

Both county squads have more tough tests upcoming. Hart has to face Kent City next week - Tanis said he thinks the Eagles are among the best teams in Division 6 - and then defending conference champ North Muskegon. Shelby, meanwhile, welcomes the same Ravenna team that took Hart to overtime in week two to town for its next game.

Fortier said the Tigers will have no problem refocusing despite the obvious emotions of Friday’s win.

“These guys won’t let each other get too big,” Fortier said. “They just want to win so bad. They want to do it, not just for themselves, but for each other and for the community.”

Panthers score 1st win in style

Hesperia walloped White Cloud Friday night, 53-14, to earn its first win of the season.

The Panthers (1-2) put up big numbers through the air. Quarterback Tucker Bolles completed 17of-28 passes for 226 yards and five touchdowns. Two of those scoring tosses went to Malakai Sellers for a combined 58 yards. Ryan Fuentes added a touchdown run and 42 yards on the ground.

Hesperia’s defense was equally effective in the lopsided victory, picking

day with a 123, and Britney Budde had a 128. Olivia McGahan and Zoey Bostrom also got in the scorebook for

the team, shooting a 144 and 147 respectively.

Pentwater drops close season opener to Mesick

Pentwater dropped a 3-1 decision Thursday night against Mesick in its season opener.

The Falcons took game two after narrowly losing game one, but Mesick rallied, won game three and went on to take game four in a 29-27, 21-25, 25-17, 25-23 defeat.

“They played well as a team and worked hard,” coach Kelly Pascavis said. “We have a few things to improve on, but I’m proud of their effort tonight.”

Charlie Swanger led the Falcon offense with nine kills and nine assists. Emma Werkema-Grondsma had 13 service points, a team high, and she and Swanger each fired four aces. Lauren Davis had a team-best six aces. Aubrie Adams led the defense with seven digs.

•

off four Indians passes. Pick-sixes by Dominic Rivera and Eli Edens were the big defensive highlights. Rivera and Edens also combined for 16 tack-

les. Sellers and Weston Hasted each also grabbed a pick, and Fuentes and Evan Conkle had seven takedowns apiece.

Pentwater’s volleyball team gathers to celebrate a point during Thursday’s match against Mesick. The Falcons lost a close battle, 3-1 • Courtesy Photo

Hesperia’s Olivia Gerard (at left) chips an approach shot toward the green during Monday’s Hart Jamboree at The Colonial Golf Course. At right, Hart’s Reese Smith chips out of a sand trap. Smith was the county’s top scorer with a 102, and Hart finished in 6th place at the jamboree, with Hesperia in 9th. • Andy Roberts/Echo Photos

Shelby’s Briar Peters lines up an attack against Whitehall defenders Braelee Fogus (6) and Lou Mulder during Thursday’s Whitehall Tri. Peters’ double-double led the Tigers to a win against Whitehall as they went 1-1 at the tri.

Shelby’s Jaylin Henderson is dragged down by a trio of Hart defenders during Friday’s rivalry showdown in Shelby. The Tigers came away with a 28-18 win.

Andy Roberts/Echo

Shelby’s Oscar Leonides keeps hold of Hart’s Kyle Greiner for a tackle during Friday’s game at Shelby. Greiner was hard to bring down, but the Tigers won the game, 28-18.

• Andy Roberts/Echo

Everyone Is A Winner At The 2025 Oceana County Fair

4-H Showmanship 16-19

Mary Bisard

Leah Brooks

Briana Crawford

Kayden Johnson

Hollis Rockwell IV

4-H Showmanship 14-15

Isabel Babbin

Kolton Rockwell

Michael Flanagan

Jayna Burmeister

Elliana Guikema

4-H Showmanship 10-13

Willow Hoffman

Kelsey Jorissen

Kora Porter

Nora Fekken

Elin Walker

Grand Champion Showmanship:

Mary Bisard

Reserve Grand Champion

Showmanship: Isabel Babbin

Light Weight

Kayden Johnson

Rylan Zant

Miranda Merten

Kenzie Burmeister

Leah Walker

Medium Weight

Jayna Burmeister

Viviana Van Agtmael

Lucas Porter

Isabel Babbin

Annabelle Stark

Heavy Weight

Mary Bisard

Briana Crawford

Paisley Altmaier

Willow Hoffman

Reid Slotman

Grand Champion Market: Mary Bisard

Reserve Grand Champion Market: Jayna Burmeister

Steer - Market Not Selling

Liliana Van Agtmael

Paisley Altmaier

Homegrown Market Steer

Jayna Burmeister

Briana Crawford

Leah Walker

Kenzye Burmeister

Annabelle Stark

Small Market Feeder Calf Showmanship 9 year olds

Colton Fekken

Nikolas Altmaier

Eli Machovsky

Colter Walker

Abigail DesArmo

Small Market Feeder Calf Showmanship 10-15

Tori Alvesteffer

Aspen Alvesteffer

Bryson Shaddock

Emma Grattafiori

Dennis Steendam

Junior Market Feeder Calf Showmanship 5-7

Colton Alvesteffer

Thomas Merten

Seth Guikema

Olive Currier

Small Market Feeder Calf

Torrie Alvesteffer

Aspen Alvesteffer

Colton Fekken

Bryson Shaddock

Nikolas Altmaier

Junior Market Feeder Calf

Colton Alvesteffer

Thomas Merten

Olive Currier

Seth Guikema

Feder Calf Not Selling

Colter Walker

Parent and Me

Emily Merten

Bennet Baker

Open Beef Showmanship: 15-19

Liliana Van Agtmael

Ellie Monroe

Logan Jorissen

Dolph Eisenlohr

Open Beef Showmanship: 13

Paisley Altmaier

Kelsey Jorissen

Miranda Merten

Tori Alvesteffer/Laura

VanDerZanden Twiss

Open Beef Showmanship: 9-11

Aspen Alvesteffer

Willow Hoffman

Aiden Dennert

Charlie Twiss

Jackson VanDerZanden

Open Beef Showmanship: 6 year old

Rosie Twiss

Open Feeder Calf Under 600 lbs.

Aspen Alvesteffer

Kelsey Jorissen

Ellie Monroe

Laura VanDerZanden Twiss

Willow Hoffman

2025 Dairy Cattle Show Showmanship 15-19:

Elli Monroe

Liam Lugo

Alex Quijas

Gabby Quijas

Showmanship 12-14:

Michael Flanagan

Emma Grattifiori

Gentry Monroe

Julie Walton

Showmanship 8-11: Eli Machovsky

William Wright

Showmanship 5-7:

Olive Currier

Octavia Falan

Serenity Pearson

Alaina Martinez

Judah Tuljus

Grand Champion Showmanship:

Ellie Monroe

Reserve Grand Champion:

Liam Lugo

Parent and Me Participant (No Placings):

Emily Hoeker

Erin Hoeker

Estella Tuljus

Aydin Martinez

Ava Martinez

Leo Bromley

Aurora Falan

Jr. Heifer Calf: Octavia Falon

Olive Currier

Alaina Martinez

Gabby Quijas

Serenity Pearson

Judah Tuljas

Kenzye Burmeister

Jr. Bull Calf

Alex Quijas

Gabby Quijas

Intermediate Heifer Calf

Paisley Altmaier

Gabby Quijas

Julie Walton

Senior Heifer Calf

William Wright

Eli Machovsky

Gentry Monroe

Junior Yearling

Liam Lugo

Michael Flanagan

Eli Machovsky

Junior Grand Champion: Liam Lugo

Junior Reserve Grand Champion:

Octavia Falan

2 Year Old Cow

Alex Quijas

Julie Walton

Ellie Monroe

3 Year Old Cow

Alex Quijas

Gentry Monroe

Emma Grattafiori

Liam Lugo

Dam and Offspring Protein Breed

Liam Lugo

Gentry Monroe

Emma Grattafiori

Ellie Monroe

Dam and Offspring Holstein

Alex Quijas

Paisley Altmaier

Gabby Quijas

Julie Walton

Produce of Dam

Ellie Monroe and Wiliam Wright

Olive Currier and Eli Machosky

Club Herd:

Country Dairyman

Stony Lake Livestock

Mary Bisard

Senior Grand Champion: Alex Quijas

Senior Reserve Grand Champion: Alex Quijas

Overall Grand Champion: Alex Quijas

Overall Reserve Grand Champion : Alex Quijas

2025 Swine Show

Senior Showmanship 15-19

Bailey Dickman

Amanda Cederquist

Carmen Howard

Gracie Parks

Kayti Steinbrook

Intermediate Showmanship 12-14

Henry Hilton

Ryan Nienhuis

Bristol Dickman

Kacen Klotz

Emma Miller

Junior Showmanship 8-11

Adalynn Hilton

Claire Babbin

Micah Parks

Jace Rycenga

Mackenzie Rycenga

Grand Champion Showmanship:

Henry Hilton

Reserve Grand Champion

Showmanship: Adalynn Hilton

Market Heavy Weight

Grand Champion: Bailey Dickman

Reserve Grand Champion:

Logan Hanson

Jayda Schmieding

Knox Roskam

Erica Hansen

Market Medium Heavy

Grand Champion:

Trenton Schmieding

Reserve Grand Champion: Gage Velat

Chase Oomen

Gunner Oomen Braiden Bultema

Market Medium

Grand Champion: Bristol Dickman

Reserve Grand Champion:

Adalynn Hilton

Ryan Nienhuis

Gabby Schmieding

Maryn Klotz

Market Light Medium

Grand Champion: Gracie Parks

Reserve Grand Champion:

Sophia Beishuizen

Aiden Schaner

Micah Parks

Claire Babbin

Market Light Weight

Grand Champion: Luke Eubank

Reserve Grand Champion:

Kacen Klotz

Amanda Cederquist

Ally Sorensen

Micah Stuckey

Grand Champion Market:

Bristol Dickman

Reserve Grand Champion:

Trenton Schmieding

2025 Lamb Show Results

Senior Showmanship: 15-19

Kenai Kokx

Mandi Sayles

Blane Sawdy

Garrett Birkhofer

Intermediate Showmanship: 12-14

Emery Velat

Gentry Monroe

Waylan Marsh

Landon Auble

Dillion Birkhofer

Junior Showmanship: 8-11

Lily Harvey

Brynlee Schultz

William Wright

Wrenna Marsh

Grand Champion Showmanship:

Madison Brant

Reserve Grand Champion Showmanship: Ellie Monroe

Market Light Weight Lambs

108-122 lbs

Blane Sawdy

Dillion Birkhofer

Waylan Marsh

Lily Harvey

Market Medium Weight Lambs 123-130 lbs.

Kenai Kokx

Emery Velat

William Wright

Landon Auble

Brynlee Schultz

Market Heavy Weight Lambs 131-148 lbs.

Gentry Monroe

Garrett Birkhofer

Mandi Sayles

Wrenna Marsh

Grand Champion Market Lamb: Gentry Monroe

Reserve Champion Market

Lamb: Garrett Birkhofer

Open Showmanship 13 and Under

Madison Brant

Hailey Hansen

Open Showmanship 14 and Up

Ellie Monroe

Alayna Hammerle

2025 Large Market Goat

Large Market Goat

Jonathan VanderNaalt

Lillian Wasson

Grand Champion Large Market

Goat: Jonathan VanderNaalt

Reserve Grand Champion Large

Market Goat: Lillian Wasson

Large Market Goat Showmanship:

Lillian Wasson

Jonathan VanderNaalt

Grand Champion Showman: Lillian Wasson

Reserve Grand Champion

Showman: Jonathan VanderNaalt

2025 Poultry Show Results

4-H Small Market Chicken

Grand Champion: Juliet Koegel

Reserve Grand Champion: Alivia Jacobson

Joseph Jacobson

Jack Koegel

Chase Bono

Junior Market Chicken

Grand Champion: Merrie Rycenga

Small Market Turkey

Grand Champion: Audrey Parks

Small Market Goose

Grand Champion: Tucker Sawdy

Junior Market Ducks

Grand Champion: Marie Rycenga

Showmanship

Grand Champion: Jack Kogel

Reserve Grand Champion: Mackenzie Rycenga

Best of Pond: Luke Eubank

Best of Barn: Luke Eubank

2025 Rabbit Show Results

4-H Small Market

Grand Champion: Jayden Miller

Reserve Grand Champion: Asher Sorensen

Madison Brant

Lillian Richardson

Junior Market

Grand Champion: Emily VanderNaalt

Reserve Grand Champion: Ella VanderNaalt

Ryder Hintz

Octavia Falon

Showmanship 15-19

April Howard Alayna Hammerle

Lilly Hopkins

Lauren Hopkins

Carmen Howard

Showmanship 12-14

Madison Brant

Lillian Wasson

Emma Miller

Nora Fekken

Laura VanDerZanden-Twiss Showmanship 8-11 (First Heat)

Hailey Hanson

Brynlee Schultz

Amira Jenkins

Everlee Wulff

Harper Freeman Showmanship 8-11 (Second Heat)

Lyza Hopkins

Brynn Payne

Asher Sorensen

Hunter Miller

Lillian Richardson

Showmanship 5-7

Tate Payne

Keegan Wulff

Emily VanderNaalt

Olive Currier

Cloverbud Showmanship

Brynlee Kempf

Octavia Falan

Ella VanderNaalt

Ryder Hintz

Best of Barn: Madison Brant (Checkered Giant)

Best of Breed: Madison Brant (Checkered Giant)

Best Opposite: Brynlee Kempf (Mini Rex)

Cavies: Grand Championship:

Carmen Howard

Reserve Grand Championship: Hunter Miller

Showmanship 15-19:

Carmen Howard

Showmanship 8-11

Hunter Miller

Jonathan VanderNaalt

Jayden Miller

Grace Hallack

Kristi’s

Showmanship 5-7

Emily VanderNaalt

Ella VanderNaalt

2025 Goat Show Results

Junior Market Goat

Grand Champion: Octavia Falan

Reserve Grand Champion: Olive Currier

Emily VanderNaalt

Kinsley Blohm

Tucker Sawdy

Junior Market Not Selling Goat Showmanship

Grand Champion: Izaiah Ramirez

Reserve Grand Champion: Oliver Weesies

Junior Market Goat

Showmanship

Grand Champion: Tucker Sawdy

2025 Dairy Goat Show Results

Parent and Me Participants: (No Placings)

Colten Hintz

Emmersyn Blohm

Maggie Weesies

Victoria Eilers

Addie VanSickle

Samara Drake

Amira Roberts

Lucus Mulder

Dairy Goat Showmanship 15-19

Kevon Gray

Garrett Birkhofer

Dairy Goat Showmanship 12-15

Dillion Birkhofer

Emery Velat

Madison Brant

Dairy Goat Showmanship 8-11

Brynn Payne

Abigail Pranger

Haley Hanson

Jamison Rought

Open Youth Showmanship 5-7

Jackson Mulder

Savannah Pranger

Darin Sokolowski

Tate Payne

Oliver Weesies

Overall Youth Showmanship

Grand Champion: Kevon Gray

Reserve Grand Champion: Garrett Birkhofer

Milker 2 and Under 3 Years

Kevon Gray

Milker 4 and Under 5 Years

Kevon Gray

Garrett Birkhofer

Dillion Birkhofer

Milker 5 Years and Over

Kevon Gray

Grand Champion Milker:

Kevon Gray

Reserve Grand Champion

Milker: Kevon Gray

Junior Doe Kid (Born after May 1st)

Garrett Birkhofer

Dillion Birkhofer

Madison Brant

Hailey Hanson

Intermediate Doe Kid (Born March 1- April 30th)

Kevon Gray

Tate Payne

Savannah Pranger

Brynn Payne

THE OCEANA ECHO SEPTEMBER

Senior Doe Kids (Born January 1- February 28th)

Kevon Gray

Senior Dry Yearling (Born January – June of 2024)

Kevon Gray

Dillion Birkhofer

Darion Sokolowski

Garrett Birkhofer

Emery Velat

Jackson Mulder

Overall Grand Champion: Kevon Gray

Overall Reserve Grand Champion: Garrett Birkhofer

Weather Pet (All Ages)

Abigail Pranger

Best Udder:

Kevon Gray

Dillion Birkhofer

Garrett Birkhofer

Dam and Daughter

Kevon Gray

Garrett Birkhofer

Dillion Birkhofer

Get of Sire

(2 does from the same Sire)

Kevon Gray

Garrett Birkhofer

Dillion Birkhofer

Tate Payne

Produce of Dam (2 daughters, same dam)

Kevon Gray

Garrett Birkhofer

Dillion Birkhofer

Tate Payne

Best Dry Homebread

Kevon Gray

Garrett Birkhofer

Dillion Birkhofer

Oliver Weesies

Best Milking Homebred

Kevon Gray

Garrett Birkhofer

Dillion Birkhofer

Best 3 Jr. Does (3 Dry Does)

Kevon Gray

Best Grand 3 Senior Does (3 milking Does)

Kevon Gray

Breeders Trio

(Doe Kid, Yearling and Milker)

Kevon Gray

Garrett Birkhofer

Dillion Birkhofer

2025 Light Horse Show

Grand Champion Halter Horse: Emery Velat and Chip

Reserve Grand Champion Halter

Horse: Emery Velat and Paddy

Grand Champion Showmaship: Emery Velat

Reserve Grand Champion: Alivia Jacobson

Grand Champion

Huntseat/ English: Emery Velat

Reserve Grand Champion

Huntseat/English: Alivia Jacobson

Western Grand Champion: Emery Velat

Western Reserve Grand Champion: Alivia Jacobson

YOUTH BUILDING

Best of Show:

Junior Market Goat Notebook: Kinsley Blohm

Horse Notebook: Emery Velat

Little Buddy Swine Notebook : Jaxon Gowell

Lamb Notebook: Kenai Kokx

Swine Notebook: Luke Eubank

Feeder Calf Notebook: Aspen Alvesteffer

Steer Notebook: Mary Bisard

Small Market Chicken: Jack Koegel

Dress-Designed by Exhibitor: Grace Hallack

Acrylic Painting: Gabby Schmieding

Nature Collection: Ryder Hintz

Recycled Materials: Kinsley Blohm

Writing-Short Story: Hailey Hanson

Decorated Sugar Cookies: Haley Hanson

Any Other Fabric: William Wright

Any Other Craft: Jayda Schmieding

Metal Stove: Alex Hicks

Pencil Portraits Art: Ellie Monroe

Banana Peppers: Joseph Jacobson

Lego Tree House: Bryce Payne

Lego- Cat: Beatrice VanSickle

First Aid Kit: Beatrice VanSickle Eggs: Violet VanSickle

Strawberry Jam: Violet VanSickle

Grand Champion Market Steer and Grand Champion Showmanship: Mary Bisard

Reserve Grand Champion Showmanship: Isabel Babbin Reserve Grand Champion Market Steer: Jayna Burmeister

Grand Champion Small Market Turkey: Audrey Parks

Grand Champion Small Market Chicken: Juliet Koegel

Reserve Grand Champion

Small Market Chicken: Alivia Jacobson

Grand Champion Jr. Market Ducks: Merrie Rycenga

Grand Champion Jr. Market Geese: Tucker Sawdy Best of Barn Chicken & Duck: Luke Eubank

Grand Champion Youth Draft Showmanship: Lillian Wasson

4-H SMALL MARKET AUCTION

Ace 1 Porta Potties, Hart

Aebig Farms, Montague

Daryl & Elizabeth Alvesteffer, Hart

Family Farm & Home, Whitehall

Harbor Design & Construction, Shelby

Hart Animal Clinic, Hart

Hidden Electric, Hart

Hometown Pharmacy, New Era

Fran Kyncl, Branch

Macho Meats, Montague

Main Street Spa, Hart

Oomen Farms Ltd, Hart

Oomen Veggie Co, Hart

Rockwell Farms, Shelby

Silver Hills Farms, Mears

Lane Stotler Farm Bureau Agency, Hart

Wickstra Realty, Shelby

Woller’s Shady Lane Farm, Montague

Buyer’s Reception Sponsor:

Nutrien Ag Solutions & Matt Williams Farm Bureau Agency

Special Thank You to:

Roger Leech, Long Horn Auction Service

Hawkers: Pat McCarry, Bill Howard,

Joel Englebrecht and Sam Bucher, Jr.

All 4-H leaders, parents & families

JUNIOR MARKET AUCTION

Acres Co-Op, Scottville

Durga Families, Montague

Eisenlohr Farms, Shelby

Whitney Holladay, Pentwater

Hometown Pharmacy, New Era

JS Acres, Mears

Maverick Acres, Hart

Mel’s Cottage Cleaners, Pentwater

Merten’s Farmhouse Market, Hart

Randolph Miller LLC, Hart

Congressman John Moolenaar, Caledonia

Oceana Echo, Mears

PB & J Farms, Custer

Peterson Farms Inc, Shelby

Shelby State Bank, Shelby Wild West Express, Hart

Add-On Buyers ($25 or more)

Kassie Bisard, Rothbury Crystal Flash,

Thank You!

A.B. Electrical Wires, Muskegon (1 lamb)

A & A Land Surveying, Hart (1 steer)

Ace 1 Dumpsters, Hart (2 hogs)*

Ace 1 Porta Potties, Hart (2 hogs)

Acme Sawmill, Walkerville (1steer)

Adams Heating & Cooling, Hart (1 hog)

Anchor Pointe Apartments, Whitehall (1 steer)

BC Pizza of Hart, Hart (1 hog & 1 steer)

Bartley Builders Inc., New Era (1 hog)*

Barton Malow, Alto (1 steer & 1 hog)*

Beckman Brothers Inc., Shelby (1 steer)

Burnette Foods, New Era (1 steer)

Coldwell Banker Woodland Schmidt Jason/Katie Rice, Whitehall (1 hog)

Concord Management, Marne (1 steer)*

Country Dairy Inc., New Era (1 hog)

Craig’s Hardware, Muskegon (2 steers)

Crop Care Co. LLC, Shelby (1 hog)

Dan Vos Construction, Ada (1 hog)

Dean Boiler, Grand Rapids (1 steer)*

Durga Insurance Group, Norton Shores (3 steers)

East Jordan Marathon, Otsego (1 steer)

Ed’s Orchard Market, Hesperia (1 hog)

EPS Farms, Montague (1 lamb)

Family Farm & Home, Whitehall (1 lamb)

Farm Bureau Insurance Klotz Agency, Hart (2 hogs)

Gaby Peterson Homes, Shelby (1steer)

Gillison’s Variety Fabrication, Benzonia & Hart (1 hog)

Golden Stock Farms, Mears (1 steer)

Gray & Company/Seneca Foods, Hart (1 hog)

Great Lakes Pet Fencing Inc., Hart (1 lamb & 1 steer)*

Greenstone Farm Credit Services, Hart (1 steer)

Gustafson HDD, Whitehall (1steer)

Hallack Contracting Inc, Hart (2 swine & 1 steer)

Hansen Foods/Big Hart Brewery, Hart (1 lamb & 1 hog)

Harbor Design Construction, Shelby (1 steer)

Hayes Law Office PLC, Shelby (1 steer)

Hidden Electric, Hart (1 goat)*

Hometown Pharmacy, Shelby (2 steers)

Janet Dodge Town Square Real Estate, Hart (1 steer)

Jesse Petersen Farms, Pentwater (1 hog)

Kevin Burmeister Farms, Shelby (1 steer & 1 hog)

Keystone Cooperative, Fremont (1 hog)

Klotz Auto Parts, Hart (1 steer)

Kristi’s Pour House, Hart (1 lamb & 1 steer)

L.K. VanSickle Farms, Hart (1 hog)

Lake Effect Apiaries, Hart (1 steer)

Lane Stotler Farm Bureau Insurance Agency, Hart (1 hog)

Larson & Son Ace Hardware, Hart (1 steer)

Long Drive Farm Trucking, Hamilton (1 steer)

Mac Woods Dune Rides, Mears (1 steer)

Macho Meats, Montague (1 lamb)*

Matt Williams Agency Farm Bureau, Whitehall (1 lamb & 1 hog)

McCormick Sand Inc., Twin Lake (1 steer & 1 hog)

Meyers Brothers Chevrolet Sales Inc, New Era (1 steer & 1 hog)

Michigan Freeze Pack Co., Hart (1 hog)

Montague Foods, Montague (1 steer)

N.J. Fox & Sons Inc., Shelby (1 hog)

Nesson Cable Engineering, Fruitport (1 hog)*

Oceana County Farm Bureau, Hart (1 lamb & 1 swine)

Oceana Echo, Mears (1 goat)

Oomen Farms Ltd, Hart (1 hog)

OPC Arbre Farms LLC, Walkerville (1 steer & 1 hog)

P & M Farms, Custer (1 lamb)

Petersen & Sons LLC, Pentwater (1 swine)

Randolph Miller LLC, Hart (1 lamb)

Riley Orchards Inc, Mears (1 steer & 1 hog)

River Adult Foster Care, Ludington (1 steer)*

Rothbury Storage, Shelby (1 hog)

Ruggles & Son Masonry, Hart (1 hog)

Sand Hills Ranch, Hart (1 lamb)*

Shafer’s Hog Farm, Hart (1 hog)

Shelby State Bank, Shelby (2 steers & 1 hog)

Side Step Farms, Scottville (1 hog)

Silver Lake Mini Storage, Mears (1 steer)

Snider Farms LLC, Hart (1 steer)

SRM Concrete, Ludington (1 hog)

Tanner Plumbing & Heating, Hart (1 steer)

The Brown Bear, Shelby (1 steer)

Tri-County Feeds, Inc., New Era (1 lamb)

Trinity-Health -Hart, Hart (1 hog)*

Tyler Road Properties, Hart (1 steer)

West MI Produce, Hart (1 steer)*

West Michigan Family Dental, Shelby (1 steer)

West Shore Bank, Hart (1 steer & 1 hog)

White Lake Animal Clinic, Montague (1 hog)

White Lake Excavating, Whitehall (1 hog)

Whitehall Equipment Rental, Whitehall (1 hog)

*Denotes new buyer

Add-On Bids ($25 or more)

Coldwell Banker Woodland Schmidt-Rice, New Era

Todd Comstock Inc., Hart

Crystal Flash, Wayland

Eugene Kokx Farms LLC, Hart

Frenchy’s Skirting Inc., Wayne

William Goss, Fruitvale

Hayes Law Office PLC, Shelby

Helena Agri-Enterprises LLC, Shelby

Klinefelter Enterprises, LLC, Whitehall

L.K. VanSickle Farms, LLC, Hart

Main Street Spa, Hart

Michigan Agricultural Commodities, Newaygo

Nutrien Ag Solutions, Hart

Justin & Danielle Oomen, Hart

Tri-County Feeds Inc, Rothbury/Montague

Twin Cities Parts & Services, Whitehall

Wesco, Whitehall

Overall Cavy Grand Champion: Carmen Howard

Junior Showman Grand Champion Dairy Cow: Liam Lugo Junior Showman Reserve Grand Champion Cow : Octavia Falan

Overall Showman Rabbits Grand Champion: April Howard

Overall Showman Rabbits Reserve Grand Champion: Lyza Hopkins

The Oceana County 4-H Market Livestock Committee and members would like to thank the following buyers for making the 2025 Market Livestock Auction a remarkable success.

Buyer’s Reception Sponsor: Nutrien Ag Solutions & Matt Williams Farm Bureau Agency Auctioneers: Chuck Ranney & Jeremy Miedema, Miedema Auctioneering ~ Hawkers: Pete Babbin, Sam Bucher, Jr., Ike McGhan, Max Ranney and Aaron Velat ~ MC’s: Michelle McCormick and Norm Myers ~ Photographer: Stephanie Lei Photography ~ Clerks: Shelby State Bank (Kayla Dennert, Deana Fox, Miriam Zuniga-Reyna, Wendy King and April Smith) ~ Auction night haulers: Phil Carter, Lars Mattson and Woller’s Shady Lane Farms ~ Haulers: Kelly Carson, Carson Trucking, Lee Tiles, Tiles Farms Trucking, Wayne Klein Hauling and W4 Farming LLC ~ All 4-H Leaders, parents, volunteers and fair superintendents!!!

Grand Champion: Goat: Oceana Echo, Mears $15.00/lb.

Lamb: Great Lakes Pet Fencing Inc., Hart $26.00/lb. Steer: A & A Land Surveying, Hart $4.05/lb. Swine: Bartley Builders Inc., New Era $12.00/lb.

Reserve Grand Champion: Goat: Hidden Electric, Hart $15.00/lb. Lamb: Family Farm & Home, Whitehall $7.50/lb. Steer: Gaby Peterson Homes, Shelby $4.60/lb. Swine: Kevin Burmeister Farms, Shelby $8.50/lb.

Overall Grand Champion Showman Dairy Cow: Ellie Monroe Overall Reserve Grand Champion Showman Dairy Cow: Liam Lugo

4-H Youth Council Grand Slam Grand Champion: Emery Velat

4-H Youth Council Grand Slam Reserve Grand Champion: Ellie Monroe

Overall Sheep Showmanship Grand Champion: Madison Brant Best of Barn - Rabbits: Madison Brant

Reflections of our community

White Lake Mirror White Lake Mirror

YOUR LOCALLY OWNED AND OPERATED NONPROFIT NEWS SOURCE

Sharing his talent in his new hometown

2024 ArtPrize winner

John Katerberg moved to Montague this year, honors Ella Ellenwood with latest work

White Lake Mirror Editor

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

By Andy Roberts

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

MONTAGUE — New Montague resident John Katerberg grew up having artistic talent. He still has a clay elephant he made in third grade, and to this day he's surprised at how well it turned out.

Katerberg has graduated far beyond clay now; he uses a rare technique that involves painting and brass, which creates a wow-worthy effect. It's an effect that helped make his painting, Dynamic Sunset, the $125,000 grand prize winner at ArtPrize in Grand Rapids last fall; it later sold for $20,000.

That painting, an 8-foot by 5-foot work, spotlighted a Lake Michigan lighthouse modeled after the ones Katerberg visited in Grand Haven when growing up in Jenison. This year, in recognition of his 2024 win, ArtPrize invited him back to display a new painting for this year's festival, which began Thursday and lasts through Oct. 4. This one, which he said took him two months to complete, is the same size and is another Lake Michigan scene, but it pays tribute to his new hometown by depicting the Ella Ellenwood, the famed schooner that sank in Lake Michigan in 1901. The craft is memorialized in the sculpture

John Katerberg's painting and brass technique, he said, produces best results in paintings that showcase water, but he also utilized it to produce this work, which he titled "American Valor." Katerberg served in the first Gulf War and in Afghanistan during his military career.

• Andy Roberts/Mirror

• Andy Roberts/Mirror

atop the Montague weathervane, and Katerberg painted it sailing in the background.

"We moved up here in May, and I saw the weathervane," Katerberg said. "I looked at different buildings and the schooners out there, and it felt like this was important to this community. I needed to do a painting.

"It's a bit of history. I think in the back of people's minds, when they think of Michigan and see the lighthouses and know about the logging history, it has a historic connection."

As preparation for including the Ella Ellenwood in his painting, Katerberg said he visited the Montague Museum and spoke with a historian there, did research on the schooner, and flew his drone to the top of the weathervane sculpture to get a closer look at it.

Katerberg is a retired veteran, hav-

With his military time over, Katerberg set his sights on his first love and completed his degree from Kendall College of Art and Design in Grand Rapids. Later, he learned the art of using brass in paintings from a cousin, fellow artist Amanda Clark, which also gave him the opportunity to apply the metal work skills he honed during his service.

ing served in Operation Desert Storm in Iraq and Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan. A mechanic during his service, he received a Purple Heart when he suffered career-ending injuries from running over an improvised explosive device (IED) in Afghanistan. With his military time over, Katerberg set his sights on his first love and completed his degree from Kendall College of Art and Design in Grand Rapids. Later, he learned the art of using brass in paintings from a cousin, fellow artist Amanda Clark, which also gave him the opportunity to apply the metal work skills he honed during his service.

"She did more abstract (work), and I added in a little bit of realism," Katerberg said. "(My work) doesn't really look real, per se, but it has what I call an animating effect. As you move around the painting, the grind marks and the brass change the painting, and it makes that abstract combine in your brain with the more real stuff. I think I'm the only one in the world doing that combination."

The technique requires more than painting, though that's the most obvious skill he employs. Katerberg uses

John Katerberg moved to Montague this year, honors Ella Ellenwood with latest work ArtPrize winner

The technique requires more than painting, though that's the most obvious skill he employs. Katerberg uses

Montague moves forward with purchase of property

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

MONTAGUE — The Montague city council authorized city manager Jeff Auch to move forward with a planned $98,000 purchase of the property that previously housed Teddy's Car Wash on Water Street during its regular meeting Monday.

The council gave 6-0 approval to the resolution; council member Lisa Kiel had an excused absence. Auch said the

council discussed the potential purchase of this property in a closed session at its July meeting.

Auch said the city could potentially gain revenue with a resale of the property at some point, though various rehabilitations are necessary to the property. Part of the reason the city decided to go forward with the purchase, Auch said, is that it would still likely have had to provide financial assistance with such rehabilitations whether it owned the property or not. He added that some

of the equipment in the building needs to be decommissioned. It's possible the property could be usable by winter if the city pushed the timeline, but more likely work on the property will carry into 2026.

The council also approved a request that the Michigan Department of Transportation commence a study of its proposed changes to Water Street.

MDOT hosted a public feedback session in August about the proposed changes, which would span from the

intersection at Dowling Street to the intersection at Stanton Boulevard near the edge of town. The changes being proposed include the road being made three lanes wide instead of two, with on-street parking taking up much of the area that now comprises the northernmost lane. There would be a turn lane leading into the stoplight. The department said at the August meeting that its

Montague council continued on page 7

"Medicare 101" offers info for first-time recipients

Senior

Resources of

Resources

Senior Resources of West Michigan ready to aid those with questions about service

West Michigan ready to aid those with questions about service

of West Michigan ready to aid those with questions about service

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

WHITEHALL — With Medicare's open enrollment period beginning Oct. 15, Senior Resources of West Michigan's Joan Schmiedeknecht makes it her business to participate in what the company calls "Medicare 101" information sessions to give seniors new to Medicare, or those caring for them, a guide to what to expect.

Such a session took place Wednes-

day, Sept. 10 at the White Lake Community Library, and over a dozen people turned out to collect information.

"We are having open enrollment up at the White Lake Senior Center starting next month," Schmiedeknecht said; the exact dates had not been determined at time of interview. "I have a volunteer working up at the White Lake Senior Center. They would just call us (at 231-733-3572) to schedule the appointment."

Schmiedeknecht ran down the different parts of Medicare coverage, which include Part A for hospital stays, Part B for the sort of health insurance most people are familiar with, Part C for the Medicare Advantage plan, and

Part D for prescription drug coverage. Parts A and B are what she called "original Medicare," while Part C is another option that combines Parts A and B together. Those without Part C can possibly purchase a supplementary policy known colloquially as "Medigap," which helps cover copays and coinsurance after initial deductibles are met. Part D is not required, but if you enroll in it after the initial enrollment period, you pay a penalty; Schmiedeknecht said there are zero-premium plans, so it makes sense to choose that coverage.

Those who are already receiving Social Security automatically are enrolled at age 65, while those who are not may do so during a special enrollment peri-

od that begins three months before they turn 65 and ends three months afterward. It's recommended those people contact the Social Security Administration themselves if not already receiving Social Security to get the process moving. There are also special enrollment periods for those over 65 who have lost employer coverage, are low-income, or move outside the service area for their existing coverage.

If that doesn't all make sense upon first reading, that's exactly why Schmiedeknecht and her employers are here. She said "no question is too trivial" to

Montague resident and 2024 ArtPrize grand prize winner John Katerberg displays his new painting of a Lake Michigan scene, with the famed Ella Ellenwood depicted on the lake in the background. Katerberg uses a rare technique involving painting and brass to create his works. This painting is now on display at the 2025 ArtPrize festival, as Katerberg was invited as a special exhibitor for this year's show. • Andy Roberts/Mirror

ArtPrize

Rothbury receives clean audit, makes approvals

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

ROTHBURY — The Rothbury village council was presented a clean audit report by accounting firm Brickley DeLong during its regular meeting Tuesday.

The council narrowly had a quorum with four voting members present; Autum Drake, Denise Kurdziel and Dylan Zuniga were absent from the meeting.

The voting members did not en-

counter any disagreements on voting matters Tuesday. They voted 4-0 to approve a planning commission recommendation to split off 22.5 acres of a 35-acre parcel on Winston Road. The council said it does still need paperwork from the applicant regarding a road they want to put on the property.

The council also approved the new employee handbook 4-0, with no significant changes made, and voted 4-0 to give the now-obsolete police radios that were recently replaced with newer

ArtPrize winner

a TIG welder to make an aluminum frame for his works, and he purchases backing material to attach the brass to a sturdy surface. These are all things that have gotten much easier, he said, since winning at ArtPrize gave him the funds to purchase more and better supplies.

It's a very intensive process, as you might imagine. Katerberg has begun taking interested observers through the process by posting videos to YouTube and TikTok under the account WarriorArtist2024.

Another step in the process of creating these works that isn't part of your ev-

eryday painting is clear-coating, which bears resemblance to the work done to make cars' paint weather-resistant. As a result of that work, Katerberg's paintings can be touched without damaging them, and unless they are left in sunlight for long periods, they will retain their grand appearances.

The clear-coating has the added effect of, slightly but noticeably, changing some colors in the painting. Katerberg said the Ella Ellenwood he painted in his new work had sails that were whiter than what was in the finished product. However, the somewhat faded

Van Wieren commends food service team on summer meal pickups

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

WHITEHALL — Whitehall superintendent CJ Van Wieren complimented the school's food service team during Monday's regular school board meeting for their help with summer meal distribution.

Van Wieren said the six weeks of pickups saw over 33,000 meals distributed under a federal program.

The superintendent also gave mention to the state budget issue; school districts are bracing for a state government shutdown as the fiscal year begins Oct. 1. Van Wieren said he is hopeful the issue can be settled soon after that and mentioned that the first state aid payment to school districts usually arrives by Oct. 20.

Van Wieren gave a brief presentation about the bond proposal that is on this

November's ballot, sharing information that has been disbursed by the district at past public meetings. The bond request is for $30 million, which would restore the millage rate of five mills that it had in 2024. This year's rate is 3.2 mills; from 2001-23, the millage rate was seven mills.

The district identified current and future needs that would cost $87 million to meet during the process, Van Wieren said, then narrowed down the highest-priority needs to the final $30 million mark. "Safe. Warm. Dry." is the slogan the district is employing in its request to the community.

Secretary Paula Martin said she is planning to make periodic trips to the high school, with other board members potentially joining her, to solicit student feedback and share information from the board.

models to the Montague Department of Public Works. The DPW could possibly use them for non-encrypted communication channels, and if the DPW does not find them useful, it can recycle or return the radios.

Planning commission chair Mike Harris discussed the ongoing issues with the Greenlawn Mobile Home Park, saying it appears grass maintenance, one of the issues the commission wanted addressed, has improved. However, there remain "four or five" mobile home

look of the sails that came about after the clear-coating was complete added what he called "a historic quality" to the painting and is an example of what artists call "happy accidents."

"They'll say 'D'oh...Wait a minute, that looks better,'" Katerberg said of the accidents. "That kind of happened with this one...It almost gives it the effect of a watercolor because things become more transparent."

The brass technique is best suited to paintings that showcase water, Katerberg said, because of the way it can create the effect of light reflecting off of it, though he recently also painted an image depicting an eagle flying in front of an American flag using the technique. However, it's not merely for utilitarian purposes that he's honed in on paintings of aquatic scenes as his main calling card.

"Back when I was deployed, I would think of Michigan and our lakes and just how refreshing it is, and that would help me mentally check out of a nasty place (and come) back here," Katerberg said.

units that are unlivable and unsalvageable and need to be removed. The commission is working to ensure that is done.

Clerk Brandy Williams said the village will again host its Halloween drive-through event next month, in which families can come by the Rothbury Community Center and receive a goodie bag of hot dogs and candy to fuel them up for their trick-or-treat adventures.

"That's one reason I just love lakes."

Katerberg is now in Montague in part to be closer to family; he and wife Barbra have a daughter and son-inlaw who live in Claybanks and another daughter and son-in-law who will soon be moving to North Muskegon, and both couples are farmers. He said he and Barbra searched for months for a suitable home in the area and had little luck at first, mainly because, as he put it, he was in search of "a studio (that) has a house." They basically gave up at one point before ultimately finding what they were looking for.

His workshop is big enough that it has an adjoining room that he plans to turn into a small fine art gallery in hopes of getting "on the route" of similar galleries in the West Michigan area. No doubt his own work will be part of what's on display, as he continues to produce works the likes of which very few attempt.

"Artists are always looking for their unique voice, and this is mine," Katerberg smiled.

Saturday, Sept. 20

Feeding America mobile food pantry @ White Lake UCC, 10 a.m. Registration begins at 8:30. No ID is required.

Sunday, Sept. 21

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

Monday, Sept. 22

Family Storytime @ White Lake Community Library, 9:30 a.m. Open to kids of all ages and their caregivers.

Live trivia @ Red Rooster Tavern, 7 p.m.

Tuesday, Sept. 23

Baby Time @ White Lake Commu-

Community Calendar

nity Library, 9:30 a.m. Stories, songs and play time. Intended for babies ages 0-2 and their caregivers.

Toddler Storytime @ MADL Montague, 9:30 a.m. Intended for toddlers ages 2-3 and their caregivers.

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. 24

Art of Calligraphy @ MADL Montague, 5:30 p.m. An introductory guided lesson into the writing style. Registration required @ madl.org.

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

Thursday, Sept. 25

Join the Muskegon Conservation District for a stewardship day @ Old Channel Trail, 8:30 a.m. Volunteers will remove invasive and unwanted plants and replace them with native species. Gloves, tools and sun and bug protection provided. Parking @ Ferry Memorial Church.

Good Neighbor Day dinner @ The Playhouse at White Lake, 6 p.m. Registration is full, but you can join the waitlist at wlclib.org/calendar.

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

Friday, Sept. 26

Play & Learn @ White Lake Community Library, 9:30 a.m. Stories, songs and playtime for kids 5 and under and their caregivers.

Afternoon Hang @ White Lake Commuinty Library, 2 p.m. Tweens 10 and up are invited to play video games, do crafts, eat snacks or just hang out!

Echoes of History: The Fair Affairs (part 1)

By Tom Eitniear Volunteer Contributor

During the 1860s the towns of Whitehall and Montague were established at the outlet of the White River along the west shore of Michigan’s Lower Peninsula. The water from this outlet filled the area known as White Lake before continuing to flow into Lake Michigan. This area was populated by numerous sawmills that processed the virgin white pine logs that were floated down the river.

The lumber industry was critical to starting a robust economic environment that helped the fledging towns grow and attract people. During the 1870s the lumber industry experienced its most aggressive growth, which led to a more secure lifestyle for the residents. Many people had a desire for more agricultural pursuits as residents and farmers converted soil that once grew trees into soil that could grow corn, wheat, oats, etc.

One of the most enjoyable pursuits for many people was the annual county fair. It was an opportunity for local farmers to show off their produce, stock, etc., and if judged to be in the top three, one could win money, or products provided as premiums by local businessmen. The only county fair in operation by the mid-1870s was the Oceana County Fair in Hart. Participation in the Oceana County fair by White Lake area residents required a nearly 40-mile round trip, which was not feasible for many.

Efforts were undertaken to develop a fair for the White Lake area by organizing the White Lake Agricultural and Industrial Society (WLAIS) in 1875 with

some of the initial membership composed of Charles C. Thompson, Albert Mears, William T. Croxson, Eli M. Ruggles, Frank Blackmarr, Warren Wilder, Rober Wood, Kenneth F. Morse, James J. Gee, A. C. Elsworth, John C. Lewis, Albert Linderman, and Paul Hedges.

Several meetings took place to elect board members and develop committees and in 1878 plans began in earnest to hold a fair in the White Lake area. Securing a site for a fair was a challenging task since a vast majority of the membership and businessmen resided in Whitehall and were determined that the fair would be held in that fledgling town.

Charles Cook was a Montague businessman who had a sizable farm on the north side of White Lake. He served on the executive committee for the WLAIS and was interested in advancing the agricultural interests of the area. In August 1878 he offered WLAIS five years’ free use of 40 acres of his land for the purpose of a fair. The land had been cleared and fenced, had a good well of water established, had a sidewalk partially completed to the land (which he offered to finish), would have buildings and sheds constructed at his expense, and would also construct a half-mile track at his expense. This nearly unbelievable offer was very generous, and one would think that the WLAIS would have accepted it quite readily.

The WLAIS board meeting of Sept. 2, 1878, included a report from the committee on securing funds and erecting buildings. The report stated several good offers for grounds were received but thought that for the coming fall the offer made by Albert Mears was the most feasible. Mr. Mears offered

the use of his lots on the corner of Colby Street and Mears Avenue, and it was thought that erecting the necessary sheds around the lots would nearly enclose the area. The board unanimously accepted the offer and instructed the committee to commence with the necessary improvements. It is unknown if Albert Mears’ position as the WLAIS board president had an influence on the decision.

A site being secured, the first fair in the White Lake area took place Oct. 1-4, 1878 in Whitehall, and was deemed a “grand success” that exceeded expectations, with nearly 600 entries. Total earnings from the fair amounted to $451.15, with expenditures amounting to $240.14, leaving net earnings at $211.01, which was impressive for a first fair.

Pardon our dust as improvements are underway

By Virginia DeMumbrum Volunteer Contributor

You may have noticed a little extra noise and activity at the library in the last week or so, and there’s more to come! We are excited to announce that solar panels are currently being installed on the roof, and we are about to begin work updating the front entrance.

The solar project is the result of a large grant from the Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE), and is expected to generate more than half the electricity the library needs each year. While the installation is expected to be complete in less than two weeks, it won’t be turned on until the interconnection work with Consumers Energy is finalized. Watch for news of a ribbon cutting later this fall! Once the system is up and running, there will be a station in the library where you can view the real-time energy production of our panels. Over

the lifetime of the system, we anticipate savings of more than a quarter million dollars on our electric bills.

The front doors of the library will soon be sporting a new look with the addition of a covered entryway. The original plans for the building included a covered entrance, but that detail was dropped due to cost when the library was constructed 25 years ago. Adding it now will enhance the appearance of the library, help reduce ice on the sidewalk, shield visitors from ice falling from the tower, and help protect the entrance tower surfaces from water damage due to heavy rains. The library is able to take this important step to preserve the building thanks to the additional millage approved by voters back in 2020. Thank you!

1-2-3 Play With Me Workshop Series Begins Oct. 2

The next series of 1-2-3 Play With Me workshops is set for 5:30 every Thursday in October. This fun program includes an hour of play time for families with children ages 1-5. Each week also features a community resource professional who will be on hand to talk with families and answer any questions parents or caregivers may have. These professionals include a nutritionist, a

speech therapist, a child development specialist, and more. Registration is required and space is limited. Please visit wlclib.org/calendar to reserve your spot, or call 231-894-9531.

FUN FACT: The library is one of the more than 500 certified Family Place libraries in 32 states. Hosting the 1-2-3 Play With Me workshops is a requirement for certification, but it’s just one small part of our commitment to being a welcoming and supportive space for young children and their families.

Manhattan Short Film Festival Oct. 1

Stop by White Lake Community Library’s meeting room between 1 and 4 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 1, for a unique film experience that spans the globe! We're hosting a screening of the Manhattan Short Film Festival, where you get to be part of an international jury by voting for your favorite short films. To preview this year's finalists, visit bit. ly/whitelake-filmtrailer.

Bring your lunch, a friend, or just your curiosity. Stay for one short or the whole lineup. With films from around the world and genres ranging from comedy to drama, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Please be aware that these short films are intended for

adult audiences and may contain content some viewers may find offensive or disturbing.

No registration required—just stop by and take part in a global celebration of short films and storytelling.

Can’t make it on the 1st? No worries! There is a second opportunity to view the same 10 films locally! Another screening will be held at the Playhouse at White Lake Saturday, Oct. 4, from 12-3 p.m. Tickets are free, but registration is appreciated at bit.ly/ whitelake-shortfilms.

These screenings are a partnership between Muskegon Area District Library, White Lake Community Library, and The Playhouse at White Lake.

DeMumbrum

Circa 1885 – The grandstand at the fairgrounds located near Whitbeck and Wilcox roads in Montague.

• Courtesy Photo

community

Lake Mirror Lake Mirror

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SPORTS SPORTS

Burrous, Winczewski spearhead Vikings to win

Burrous scores pair of goals, Winczewski records another shutout for Whitehall

By Andy Roberts

White Lake Mirror Editor

WHITEHALL — If Whitehall does in fact face Manistee again in the district tournament next month, the Vikings certainly have earned the right to enter a rematch with confidence after dispatching the Mariners 2-0 Wednesday night, extending their unbeaten streak to seven games.

There were many Viking stars on the night, but the most obvious ones were Carter Burrous, who scored both goals on very similar shots, and Alex Winczewski, the first-year soccer player at keeper who has wowed fans with great instincts, great saves and great results.

Coach Dillon McCarthy found himself amazed at a late save by Winczewski which showed off his basketball roots because of the unconventional way he smacked the ball downward once he got a hand on it.

"It was the most unconventional save I've seen, but he saved it," McCarthy said. "He's a gamer. He played out of his mind and made 3-4 quality saves that if he doesn't (make them), it shifts the entire pace of play and the entire momentum their way."

"Seeing him come out to the field and just absolutely dominate in the net, it's amazing and great to see," Burrous said of his teammate.

Whitehall (6-3-1, 5-1-1 West Michigan Conference) used improved spacing - McCarthy was pleased his team used the entire width of the field - to create the majority of scoring chances in the game and leaned on the veteran Burrous to finish them. He fired both of his goals from the right side of the net across to the left, placing them perfectly. Both came from similar distances as well, with the first from about 20 yards away, the second from just over 15. He scored the first goal 15 minutes into the game, and the second with 19 minutes left to play.

"That's what I'm practicing all the time," Burrous said. "The coaches set me up for stuff like that. In the box, you've got to find the gaps."

Burrous works hard at his craft, but McCarthy said his top scorer, who is up to nine goals for the season, also possesses a natural gift for scoring and is determined to maximize it.

"He's good. He's quality," McCarthy said. "I love that he gets angry at himself, too, when he's not scoring more because of his opportunities. (He'll say,) 'I mishit that,' or this happened or that. He's always looking for ways to fix what he's got going and try to capitalize on those shots."

McCarthy also credited senior defensemen Keegan Frees and Javi LeBlanc and center midfielders and captains Evan Jud and Ian Hinze for strong play throughout the game. He put it right there with the team's impressive 1-0 win over Ludington last week as one of its best performances.

"Collectively, I think this is probably one of our best team outings," McCarthy said. "It felt pretty comfortable. They felt pretty confident, even under pres-

sure against a pretty good and talented Manistee team."

The team's focus is squarely on that postseason run, with the coach even referencing it by saying the goal is to put together 160 consistent minutes (two full games) in a week. The 1-1 tie with Montague last week is the only game in the last seven the Vikings have not won and stands, to McCarthy, as an example of what the team can't let happen in October.

"I can't fault them for not having the best outing on Wednesday after the emotional high of beating a Ludington team in the last three minutes, (but I tell them,) 'Yeah, that happens, guys, but if you want to win a district, you've got to win two games with your best 160 minutes to get to that final,'" McCarthy said.

Whitehall still in search of elusive victory

Team goes 0-2 at home tri meet, but shows signs losing skid may end soon enough

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

WHITEHALL — Whitehall appeared on the verge of scoring its long-awaited first win of the season last Thursday night at home against Shelby when it built an early lead in game three, but a big late run by the Tigers dashed those dreams.

Shelby knocked off Whitehall 25-27, 25-17, 25-20 in the middle match of a tri at Whitehall. The Vikings previously fell to Kent City, 25-19, 25-19.

After Whitehall's game one win, its first game win of the season, it had leads in both of the following games as well, but couldn't hold on. The losses dropped the Vikings to 0-12 on the year.

No doubt the early drought has been frustrating to Whitehall, though coach Claire McGrew takes heart in that it hasn't seemed to bring about a negative impact on team chemistry.

"I'm still so appreciative that the girls love each other," McGrew said. "They're there to support one another. That's always one of the first steps, is making sure the girls all like each other, or get

• Andy Roberts/Mirror

to a point where they all like each other. That just came naturally. I feel like going through this experience, a little bit of a drought, has really brought them closer to the point where they're able to help and support one another in practice."

Errors were the main culprit in Whitehall's struggles; the Vikings had 26 attack miscues on the night in the five games played and made 14 service errors. The strongest part of the game for Whitehall was blocking at the net, as the team totaled nine blocks, five of them by Delaney Kramer. Though there were more service errors than the Vikes would like, they also had 20 aces, including five each by Kate Beda and

Ryleigh Smith. Serving runs by Beda and Clare Westerlund were instrumental in the Vikings' game one win.

McGrew said her team did a better job getting into the match right away against Shelby than it has in other matches this season, and those better starts have been an emphasis in practice.

"Against Shelby, we did a good job starting on time," McGrew said. "We've got to clean up a few errors here and there in practice, but we keep looking

for improvement. We're right on the brink now. It's going to come."

McGrew also made a lineup tweak Thursday, running a two-setter system with Peyton Schultz (who had a teamhigh 13 assists) and Lou Mulder. Illness running its way through the team may have contributed to the switch, as three Vikings did not play Thursday. She didn't commit to running the same sys-

Whitehall's Carter Burrous (17) celebrates the first of his two goals during Wednesday's 2-0 win over Manistee. Teammates Basil Savage (10) and Ian Hinze join the celebration. Burrous now has a team-high 9 goals for the season. • Andy Roberts/Mirror

Whitehall's Clare Westerlund winds up for a spike during last Thursday's home tri match against Kent City. The Vikings fell to Kent City and to Shelby.

• Andy Roberts/Mirror

Whitehall Tri

Whitehall's Javi LeBlanc stays on the ball while it's possessed by a Manistee foe during Wednesday's game. The Vikings won, 2-0. • Andy Roberts/Mirror

Whitehall's Kate Beda lines up an attack against Kent City defender Lylah Larson during last Thursday's home tri meet.

Vikings pull off huge road win at Zeeland West

By Andy Roberts

White Lake Mirror Editor

Whitehall played an incredible first half Friday night against defending Division 3 state champion Zeeland West, then came up clutch to stave off a Dux rally and earn its most impressive victory of the season, 35-28, on the road.

Cole Essebaggers threw a 27-yard touchdown pass to Ayden Mendoza in stride with a half-minute to play in the game for the winning score, then the Vikings were able to hang on despite a penalty giving the Dux an untimed down on the final play of the game.

The touchdown was similar to the one the same duo connected on last week against Orchard View, with the only difference being Mendoza getting this one in stride as opposed to making a leaping catch in the end zone.

"It was a really good high school football game," Whitehall coach Tony Sigmon said. "You've got to credit them. Zeeland West is an excellent program and they battled back.

"Ayden has stepped up in a big way for us the last two weeks. He's playing with a lot of confidence, and he should be. He's had two really big moments this year."

Whitehall (2-1) overwhelmed Zeeland West in the first half, allowing only 29 total offensive yards and building a 21-0 lead with its running game. All three Viking scoring drives in the first half, in fact, consisted solely of running plays, most of them from Liam Leeke or Essebaggers. Leeke had two of the scoring runs and Essebaggers added the third.

Leeke rang up a spectacular 241 yards rushing on 34 carries in the game, and Essebaggers ran it 22 times for 90 yards.

"Cole Essebaggers, at quarterback, has done such a wonderful job the first three weeks of the season running our offense and leading our team," Sigmon said. "He's had three really good games in a row. Liam Leeke is getting better and better, and you really saw that tonight."

Of course, no running game is that successful without an offensive line doing the dirty work, and Sigmon commended the unit, consisting of three seniors - including returning all-conference player Jamison Jeffery - and a pair of sophomores.

"They have really grown as a unit," Sigmon said. "We started seeing that in the summer, but those guys are playing really well and starting to jell. A lot of kids should be celebrated for this one."

Before the celebration, though, the Dux attempted to ruin the party with a terrific rally. The Vikes answered Zeeland West's first surge - two touchdowns and two two-pointers - with another all-ground scoring drive, which Essebaggers capped with a short run, but the Dux struck back with two more quick touchdowns, the second a 40-yard touchdown toss on fourth-and-7, to tie it up.

However, the Essebaggers-to-Mendoza connection - only the fifth passing play of the day for Whitehall, and the second completion - proved to be the perfect answer.

"What we're really excited about is what that does for our offense," Sigmon said of the throw. "That gives us a wide receiver threat at every position that's pretty

Wildcat offense explodes in win

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

After two weeks of offensive frustrations, Montague was able to light up a scoreboard for the first time this season Friday night, routing Orchard View 54-20 for its first win of the season.

Big plays were the name of the game for the Wildcats (1-2, 1-1 West Michigan Conference Lakes). Every touchdown play was 19 yards or more, and four were over 40.

All four of those explosive plays came from Cole Moss. Coach Phil Koops said before the season he hadn't coached many athletes like Moss, and with 224 yards just on scoring plays, the junior backed up his coach's preseason praise.

"Cole Moss had a huge night for us, both running the ball and catching pases," Koops said. "He

was a big play machine. We knew he was talented, so that was great to see."

With four first-quarter touchdowns, Montague looked more like the offense Koops hoped for when he arrived. It wasn't perfect, Koops said, but "we had more kids in the right spots. Our timing was better."

OV attempted to get back in the game after trailing 33-8 at halftime, scoring early in the third quarter, but Montague responded with two more touchdowns to effectively end the game.

After two weeks of very strong defense, Koops said he felt the team struggled a bit with tackling, but he also credited the Cardinals, who were expected to show improvement this year behind quarterback Peyton Babbitt. Babbitt missed a second straight game with injury, but the team has other

talented players.

"They have some pieces, some good athletes there," Koops said. "If you give them some space, it's hard to tackle them one on one. We missed some of those tackles, and they resulted in big plays for Orchard View."

Honing in on the details will be key for Montague this week in practice as it prepares for a high-octane rivalry game with Whitehall. With both teams coming off big wins, the intensity should be high.

"I'm a downhill, run-the-ball guy, and we tried to play a little more wide open and take advantage of some of those athletes we have," Koops said. "Everyone saw tonight that we can take advantage of those guys doing some things, and we can still play off our offensive line, a senior-led group and a strength of our team."

Rockets top Lakers for 1st win

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

Reeths-Puffer got in the win column for the first time this year Friday, playing a well-rounded game on both sides of the ball and making clutch plays at the end to beat Spring Lake, 35-28.

"The part we're excited about is that we played four quarters," R-P coach Cody Kater said. "We have a young, inexperienced team and we started nine sophomores. We watched those guys kind of grow up in front of us against a good program, good coaching staff, and a good scheme. They adapted throughout the game and made plays when it counted."

Receiver JaMichael Williams made the biggest offensive play of the game, grabbing a five-yard touchdown catch in traffic for what proved to be the winning score.

Earlier in the game, the sophomore wideout had a 95-yard catch-andrun score.

The first half was huge for the Rockets (1-2), who got in the end zone four times in that span. Mason Darke had a long touchdown catch early, and Cal Millis got in the end zone on the ground and on a reception. Braylon Swain, of course, was on the other end of those three first-half scoring tosses, delivering an impressive performance.

The defense had to help the Rockets hang on from there, and they did enough to win, making two huge stops in the fourth quarter. Kater said the offense finally having consistent success also helped the defense stay fresh throughout the game.

"It was great to finally give our defense a chance and a break, and get some time of possession and some momentum on our side,"

dynamic."

Defensively, Hunter Peterson led with seven tackles, and Judd Musk had a fumble recovery. However, so many more Vikes contributed on that side of the ball, with Sigmon shouting out Jacob Alger, Colton Kyser, Max Krukowski and more.

Retaining focus should not be an issue for Whitehall, with Montague on deck in week four.

"It's easy to fall into the trap of how good we are, but we need the same attention to detail next Friday," Sigmon said. "If we use (this) to its potential, it can be a really big thing for us and catapult us to a really good season. If we don't, we can end up with egg on our face. As good as it feels, it's one game."

Sports in Brief

Soccer

Byron Center 3 Reeths-Puffer 0

The Rockets couldn't get on the board against the Division 1 No. 9 Bulldogs. Byron Center is unbeaten to date in the O-K Green.

Whitehall 4 Orchard View 2

Four different Vikings scored a goal, and 4 more had an assist in the win. Basil Savage, Evan Jud, Antonio De Luque and Corey Holmes scored.

Manistee 8 Montague 3

Montague gave up 5 late first-half goals to break a 1-1 tie, and was unable to rally. Steven Aebig and Jonah Henderson scored second-half goals.

Pentwater 7 Montague 3

The Wildcats were tied 2-2 at halftime, but the visiting Falcons' offense took off in the second half and Montague was unable to keep up.

Reeths-Puffer 1 Mona Shores 0 Blake Kiel scored the game's only goal after Zac Sampson drew a foul in the box. Liam Copenhaver picked up the shutout in goal.

Volleyball

Morley-Stanwood 3 Montague 0

Montague struggled serving in the match, managing only 1 ace. Gentry Knop paced the Wildcat defense with 18 digs.

Jenison 3 Reeths-Puffer 0

The Rockets started strong, nearly stealing the first game from Jenison, but were unable to continue that level of play. Carlee Bowen led the Rocket defense with 11 digs in the match.

Reeths-Puffer 3-1 at West Ottawa Invite

The Rockets picked up a big win over Traverse City West in pool play, also defeating Benton Harbor and Hopkins during the meet. They fell to Hamilton. Kate Tindall had 58 assists and 26 digs. Lexie Danz led the offense with 19 kills and had 24 digs.

Fremont 3 Montague 1

The Wildcats won game three and nearly forced a 5th game, but fell 25-21, 25-17, 22-25, 26-24. Gentry Knop had 22 digs and 4 aces. Reagan Cederquist paced the offense with 10 kills.

Oakridge 3 Whitehall 0 Lou Mulder led Whitehall with 13 assists, and she and Mayson Milliron each had 7 digs. Delaney Kramer posted 6 kills.

Golf

Montague 2nd at Big Rapids Invite

The Wildcats performed well in a preview of the D-4 state finals course, finishing second behind only Division 3 No. 10 Otsego. Cadence Fox led Montague with a 90, taking 4th place, and Addi Smith had a 94.

Montague 1st, Whitehall 3rd at Wildcat Invitational

Montague earned a team score of 357 to win the event. Whitehall shot a 372. The battle for medalist honors extended into a playoff, where the Wildcats' Cadence Fox edged the Vikes' Riley Shafer by birdieing the playoff hole. Each shot an 82 in their 18-hole rounds.

Reeths-Puffer 4th at O-K Green midseason tourney

The Rockets posted their best 18-hole score of the season to date, a 379. Sophia McCollum led the team with an 80 to gain medalist honors. Olivia Ambler and Ella Voorhies each shot a 92.

Reeths-Puffer 3rd at home jamboree

R-P moved up a spot from previous conference meets behind career jamboree bests from Olivia Ambler (42) and Ella Voorhies (44). Sophia McCollum led the team in scoring with a 39.

Kater said. "We also understand we've got to play well on both sides and help each other out and play a complete game."

The win is a needed boost of confidence for a team that hasn't had as many of them as it'd like the last year-plus. A matchup with Union, which the Rockets beat handily last year, could offer a new chance at one of those next week, though R-P will surely be focused on executing another strong game plan like the one it saw Friday.

"This last week at Caledonia, that was the first game, besides Muskegon last year, where we really struggled in many different ways and didn't compete at the level we talk about," Kater said. "Tonight it was nice to see the kids be able to respond to their opportunities. They were able to respond in a four-quarter game."

Cross Country

Jazwinski stars at MSU Invite

Bobby Jazwinski had the top time of any MHSAA runner, posting a mark of 15:28.4. Hunter Parsons and Rex Pumford each set season-best times. The Viking boys finished in 7th place.

Reeths-Puffer races at Ottawa Hills Invite

Jersi Bilek was the Rockets' top finisher, placing 22nd in the girls' race.

Dylan Sturr paced the boys with a 91st-place finish. R-P's boys team was 16th in the large-school division, with the girls in 17th. Whitehall boys 1st, Montague 5th at OV jamboree Whitehall's boys team edged Fremont for first place in the WMC Lakes opener. Bobby Jazwinski won the race, and Hunter Parsons and Rex Pumford both placed in the top 10. Gibson Smith led the Wildcat boys, placing 13th, and Carmen Howard was 17th for the girls. Reese Hesse was Whitehall's top girls finisher, coming in 11th place. Tennis

Mona Shores 8 Reeths-Puffer 0

The Rockets couldn't overpower a very good Sailors team. The best performance was by No. 1 doubles team Jack Yonkman/Roman Ponce, who dropped a 6-2, 6-3 match to Andrew Mills/Brennen Resiter.

Whitehall 5 Reeths-Puffer 3

Whitehall won all 4 doubles matches in the dual. Ian Sampson/Evan Thomas won 6-0, 6-0, and Adam Sikkenga/Remington Whelpley won 6-0, 6-1. Ethan Frang and Cory Judd won singles matches for R-P.

Whitehall 7 W.M. Christian 1 Whitehall won all 4 singles matches, with William Burger, Evan Schuitema, Wyatt Burger and Scout Freiheit earning victories. The Vikings also scored 3 doubles wins.

Rocket defense stays strong in tie with Fruitport

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

MUSKEGON — Reeths-Puffer's recent struggles scoring goals haven't made it easy to win games, but the Rocket defense has more than done its share to ensure the team continues to be competitive.

Saturday's contest against defending district champion and Division 2 No. 14-ranked Fruitport was another example of that work paying off, as the Rockets were able to pick up a 0-0 tie.

R-P has only scored one goal in the five games it's played in September to date, but strong defense has enabled the Rockets to win or tie three of those five games. The Rockets are 7-3-3 overall.

"We're still working on some of the technical things around the attacking third for goals, but we're really excited about the work ethic and the athleticism that our boys (have shown)," R-P coach Kody Harrell said. "They've worked all summer for that. That's why we were happy about the athleticism, because it's fun seeing that hard work being put on display.

"That was one of the things we focused on more this offseason, was our athlete piece. We wanted to be able to hang with them athletically. We thought they kind of out-athleted us last year in the district game specifically. We feel faster this year. We feel stronger. We feel deeper."

While Fruitport had more scoring chances than did the Rockets, neither team really came all that close to scoring. Keeper Liam Copenhaver, who's

Reeths-Puffer's Carson McCollum (left) defends Fruitport's Davis Johnson during Saturday's game at R-P. The Rockets played the Trojans to a 0-0 tie.

• Andy Roberts/Mirror

already closing in on the team's single-season record for shutouts (which is 10), did not have to make any spectacular diving saves to prevent a goal Saturday.

What he did do, and has done all season, is seek the ball with confidence. When the Trojans had a corner kick, more often than not Copenhaver was the most aggressive player on the field in getting the ball.

"Coach (Andrew) Anderson's done an amazing job as our goalie coach, instilling, obviously, the training and the technique and the teaching, but also just instilling that confidence," Harrell said of Anderson's work with Copenhaver. "He's a big kid with broad shoulders. Own that, because it's the ref's job to protect the goalie, too. Own your physique and get after it and be that broad-shouldered boy up in the air and go get it. He's a nice, strong, confident kid nowadays and we're loving that from him."

Harrell did not betray much worry about the team's scoring struggles of late. Unfortunately, the team has been

without dynamic attacker London Carpenter for most of this month as he is working his way back from an illness. He won't be back on the field until later in September, and Harrell's confident that will help unlock the Rocket offense.

"We've got plenty of boys, especially like Owen Ritsema and Cohen (Beck) and Carson (McCollum) and Zac Sampson," Harrell said. "We should still be scoring goals. The expectations haven't changed because of the talent those guys have...Once London gets back, I think that in itself will fix some things, but we've definitely just got to keep plugging away."

While fans wait for the goals to come, the defense has played with great effort, partially a result of the depth with which the team entered the season. The Rockets can liberally substitute, which offers fresher legs at the end of games

and also promotes a healthy competition for minutes between the players on the back end of the field.

"Defenders know they're doing their job, but they still know they can't take any plays off or take any games off, because there's boys ready to step into their spots," Harrell said. "I think that still helps our back line play at a high level."

As the final weeks of the regular season play out, the Rockets will be trying different things in order to optimize their chances at a postseason run.

"We just need to continue fine-tuning some things," Harrell said. "We tried a different formation today, too, so we're kind of in that experiment mode while attacking at the same time. We're using the next eight games to get ready for October, really."

Montague wins Hart jamboree on way to conference title

HART — Montague won its fourth consecutive West Michigan Conference jamboree Monday at Hart, edging out Whitehall by eight strokes, 371-379. It was the fourth straight time the two local schools took the top two spots.

However, center stage went to the Vikings' Riley Shafer, who ran away with medalist honors with an impressive score of 83. Shafer never shot worse than bogey on any hole and also made a birdie during her round.

Addi Smith led four Wildcats in the individual top 10 by tying for second place with a 90. Cadence Fox was right behind her with a 92, good for fourth place, and Marguerite O'Connell tied her personal best 18hole score with a 93, tying for sixth. Brynlee Kessler was the Wildcats' fourth scorer, placing ninth with a 96.

Morgan Garcia joined Shafer in the individual top 10, finishing eighth for the Vikings with a score of 94. Kelsie McClure posted a 98 and Avarie Bentz shot a 104 for Whitehall.

Montague locks up WMC at Stonegate

Montague locked up the West Michigan Conference championship Wednesday with another win at the final jamboree of the season, hosted by Stone-

Whitehall Tri

tem going forward, but added, "We shall see."

"I think Peyton Schultz and Lou Mulder stepped up and really owned their roles and helped us today with starting on time and getting into our offense," McGrew said.

Between the performance against Shelby and a close three

gate Golf Club.

As was the case with the Hart jamboree two days prior, Montague fought off a tough challenge from Whitehall to take the win by six strokes, 383-389. The two teams finished first and second, in that order, in each of the five jamborees.

Whitehall's Riley Shafer picked up medalist honors at the jamboree with a score of 88. Cadence Fox of Montague, meanwhile, shot a 91 and finished third at the jamboree, but cumulative season individual scores gave Fox the title of WMC individual champ, with Shafer a close second.

The Wildcats' other three scorers behind Fox all

games against Ludington two days prior, it seems inevitable the Vikings will break into the win column soon enough. Until then, McGrew likes the team's mentality.

"It gave us great feedback," McGrew said of the tough loss to the Orioles. "It was one of those losses we could learn a lot from, which is great. There was no hanging our

continued from page 4

heads down. We took it at face value...I feel like Shelby's going to be similar to that when we watch film."

Mayson Milliron led the Vikings in digs, with 26. and Beda had 17. Kramer was the top attacker, with 16 kills and an impressive .256 hitting percentage.

finished in the individual top 10 Wednesday. Molly Mulder finished sixth with a 96, Brynlee Kessler was seventh with a 97, and Addi Smith placed ninth with a 99. All three joined Fox in securing all-WMC honors for the season.

Morgan Garcia placed fourth in the jamboree for the Vikings, shooting a 93. Kelsie McClure posted a 101, and she and Garcia picked up all-WMC season honors along with Shafer. Avarie Bentz had a 107 to round out Whitehall scoring.

Medicare 101

reach out with questions. "I sit with clients in the office," Schmiedeknecht said. "I go out and do big wellness fairs. I hand out brochures to different organizations, so they know where we're at to come in and see us. That's part of our outreach."

Unfortunately, Medicare scams are common, as scammers believe the

continued from page 1

elderly are easy targets. Those who come across a suspected scam should reach out to the Senior Medicare Patrol, a statewide program. It's emphasized that Medicare already has the Medicare enrollment number for each enrollee and will never ask for it over the phone or in any public setting.

Whitehall's Kelsie McClure (at left) and Montague's Marguerite O'Connell connect on shots during Monday's Hart Jamboree. McClure helped the Vikings to a 2nd-place finish, and O'Connell matched her 18-hole career best score as Montague won the jamboree. The 'Cats won the WMC title Wednesday. • Andy Roberts/Mirror Photos

Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

Reeths-Puffer keeper Liam Copenhaver (center) leaps into a crowd to defend the ball following a corner kick during Saturday's game against Fruitport. Copenhaver earned another shutout in a 0-0 tie. • Andy Roberts/Mirror

Montague council

data indicate the changes would reduce collisions and encourage compliance with posted speed limits.

City manager Jeff Auch said during discussion that potential lane changes from the causeway to the stoplight are also possible, but MDOT does not intend to do a study on those now because a rehabilitation or replacement of the causeway bridge is a longer-term project it intends to complete. Pub-

lic commenter Bill Tarr said he hopes crosswalks are considered as part of the project, as the road is already not easy to cross for pedestrians.

Three deer hunting permits were granted, all by 6-0 votes, in three different deer management areas (DMAs) that had previously been approved. Two of the permits were granted to owners of property that were part of the DMA.

Auch shared that the city did not

receive positive feedback from WinBerg Construction regarding the state of the White Lake Senior Center building when asked to do an appraisal. The feedback was that the building is not in good shape and the necessary work to stabilize it would cost in excess of $200,000 to complete. Auch informed the council that he has already engaged in preliminary discussions with other building owners in the city about potential purchases to provide an alternative site for the Senior Center in the long term.

Auch also informed the council that

it will be voting on a new site plan for Whitehall Products at its next meeting. The planning commission unanimously approved the plan, which calls for the property to move 35 feet closer to Water Street, at a recent meeting.

The council voted 4-2 against adding a reaffirmation of state sovereignty to the council agenda prior to the rest of the meeting taking place. Mahoney, who brought the motion, and Susan Newhof voted in favor. Newhof stated later in the meeting that she'd like to discuss adding such a thing to a later meeting agenda if the council is open to it.

County PFAS task force to meet Sept. 25 in Muskegon

The Muskegon County PFAS Task Force will hold its third quarterly meeting Thursday, Sept. 25, 2025, from

6-7:30 p.m. at the GVSU-Annis Water Resources Institute in Muskegon. The meeting will also be accessible virtually

Registration open for Chamber's annual dinner

The White Lake Area Chamber & Visitor's Bureau announced recently that registration is now open for its 2025 annual dinner, scheduled for Monday, Oct. 20 at the Curly Horse American Bistro at Double JJ Resort in Rothbury.

The annual dinner is the Chamber’s evening of recognition and celebration, highlighting the accomplishments of the business community and honoring outstanding leaders with awards including Entrepreneur of the Year, Legacy Award, Lady Laker Award, El Award, Honorary Awards, and Board of Director Awards.

via Zoom.

Because they do not break down easily, PFAS have been called “forever chemicals.” They can contaminate drinking water and soil, build up in the

human body, and have been linked to health risks, including certain cancers, immune system effects, and developmental issues.

Guests will enjoy a social hour beginning at 5:30 p.m., followed by dinner and the awards program at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are $65 per person, which includes dinner and one drink ticket (cash bar available for additional beverages).

For more information or to reserve your seat, visit www.whitelake.org or call (231) 893-4585.

Suitable for 1 person No pets, no children and no smoking Appliances provided, otherwise unfurnished You pay electric and cable $600 per month with a one year lease First, last and security deposit: total of $1,800 to move in. 231-206-1927