The Oceana Echo - Volume 3, Issue 18, September 26, 2025 by theoceanaecho

Horseshoe nail artist Alan VanDuinen exhibits at ArtPrize 2025

By Sharon Hallack

The Oceana Echo Community Correspondent

Pentwater resident and horseshoe nail sculpture artist Alan VanDuinen is among the hundreds of entries at this year’s ArtPrize 2025 going on now in Grand Rapids, Mich., from now until Saturday, Oct. 4. VanDuinen’s “Nailed in Time: Holy Week Reflections” is on display at Cornerstone Church. Located at 48 Lafayette St., in the heart of the Heritage Hills district, VanDuinen’s exhibit is among 38 artist exhibits on display at the Grand Rapids church.

The entire exhibit includes 91 human forms and was created using 719 horseshoe nails. He specifically uses horseshoe nails, ordered online from a company out of Kentucky. The nails, made for shoeing horses, are made up of different metals, making them softer than carpenter nails. “People think I weld them together, but because the metal is soft, I actually solder them,” VanDuinen explained. “I take five horseshoe nails to form the body, arms

and legs. Then by bending and soldering them, I can create a variety of human forms that show emotion and personality.”

VanDuinen, who was raised in New Era, is a former high school math teacher and residential home builder who has been doing nail sculpture for over 50 years. His sculptures, sold through craft shows for many years, mainly represent people. Part of his 50year artistic journey even allowed him the privilege of gifting sculptures to Johnny Cash, President Richard Nixon and President Gerald R. Ford. But his “Nailed in Time” work holds much more meaning for him.

Three years ago he was asked by a former pastor, who is now in Muskegon, if he’d be interested in creating a nail sculpture display of Holy Week events. It was to be part of a church-wide exhibition that included art of all forms. “It was meant to be a multi-sensory experience as part of their traditional Good Friday service. I worked on it from January to Good Friday that year,” VanDuinen said.

The exhibit is patterned after the 14 “Stations of the Cross” or “Way of the Cross” images or carvings, displayed in some churches or other sacred places, depict-

ing the key events in the Passion of Jesus Christ. These “stations” are used as a focal point for further prayer and reflection by worshippers throughout the church year, but specifically during Lent and on Good Friday.

The commissioned art opportunity for that Muskegon church opened the door for VanDuinen to display his “Nailed in Time” sculptures at a Grand Haven church two years ago. Then during the Easter season this year, he displayed them at his home church, New Era Reformed. After seeing them for himself, a fellow congregant encouraged him to enter them in ArtPrize. “I never would have entered if I didn’t have grandkids who are techy and could help me with the online enrollment process,” joked VanDuinen.

“I had to submit an artist’s statement, pro-

vide pictures and select the venues where I wanted to display my art,” he said. “The venues also have to put out a spiel and invite artists to consider them as a location.

“After I’d been selected by the Cornerstone Church, I went to one of their services and met one of their ArtPrize venue committee members. They shared that their committee had invited a variety of artists to consider them as their venue. Not all works are faithbased, but there are many beautiful pieces to see.”

VanDuinen, who was on site last weekend and intends to be there the next two weekends, said it has been an interesting journey. “The conversations I’ve been able to have with different people have been enlightening. As I’m talking to people, I share with them that it’s been more than about just creating sculptures. This exhib-

it highlights a personal relationship that has been developed over the years. I’ve highlighted 14 key events of Holy Week from the Garden of Gethsemane to the Entombment. Each sculpture is accompanied by a sign identifying what event it represents. At the end of the exhibit I have a sign saying, ‘Is it finished?’ I wanted to put the emphasis on the Resurrection and the empty tomb, and all that it means for humanity.”

One visitor, a pastor’s wife, commented to VanDuinen last weekend that she was very familiar with the timeline of Holy Week, but as she went through the display, she had tears streaming down her face as she considered everything they represented.

ArtPrize venues are divided up into five districts, and while downtown Grand Rapids may see the most action, there

are over 1,000 entries located at numerous venues across the city.

ArtPrize runs through Saturday, Oct. 4. Outdoor exhibits are available 24/7, while indoor exhibits are open to the public Mondays through Thursdays from 5-8 p.m.; Fridays and Saturdays from noon to 8 p.m. and Sundays from noon to 6 p.m. VanDuinen plans to be present with his exhibit each weekend, as well as some weekdays as he is available.

In an effort to encourage public engagement, visitors may vote for their favorite exhibits until Thursday, Oct. 2 at 10 p.m. “Voting is your way to help shape the competition! Every vote counts toward determining which entries move forward in the competition and, ultimately, which artists take home the prizes,” states the official ArtPrize website. “Your first vote must be from within ArtPrize boundaries. Once registered, you can vote for as many entries as you like, but only once per entry per day. After a full 24 hours, you can vote for the same entries again.”

For more information about ArtPrize locations, finding specific artists, voting protocol, events and more, please visit https://www.artprize. org/visitor-faqs.

Local women leaders represent Oceana County at international conference

The 100 Who Care Alliance Leadership Conference took place in Grand Rapids this past weekend, marking the first time this international event has ever been hosted in Michigan. The giving circle movement itself began in Jackson, Michigan, in 2006 and has since grown to more than 800 giving circles worldwide.

The 100 Women Who Care of Oceana County steering team of Gina Ferwerda, Deana Fox, Tammy Carey, Amy LaBarge, and Beth Snider attended the conference as volunteers, representing their local chapter. Ferwerda also served as host of the event and, following the conference’s success, formally accepted a position on the Board of Directors for the national 100 Who Care

Alliance. "It is an honor to represent Michigan — where the movement first began — on this national board, which was also the theme of this year’s conference," Ferwerda said. As part of the programming,

attendees nominated Michigan nonprofits for donations. Oceana County nonprofit Forward Human Trafficking was awarded $500 to further its mission, and an Ottawa County nonprofit also received $500. In addition, a Kent

County nonprofit was presented with a $10,000 donation.

"We were also proud to see local representation on the agenda itself. Tammy Carey spoke in a session on Community Foundations, sharing valuable insights and showcasing the role of the Oceana County Community Foundation in supporting collective giving," Ferwerda went on to explain. "Overall, the conference was a meaningful opportunity to connect with leaders from across the country and around the world, while highlighting the important philanthropic work happening right here in West Michigan. We were honored to represent Oceana County and to showcase the growing impact of the giving circle movement."

Beth Snider, Deana Fox, Gina Ferwerda, Tammy Carey and Amy LaBarge

Pentwater Council approves Toby Van Ess as new village manager

By AnnaMae Bush The Oceana Echo Community Contributor

At its Sept. 22 meeting, the Pentwater Village Council unanimously approved James "Toby" Van Ess, interim manager, as the new village manager to replace Rachel Witherspoon, who left earlier this month. Van Ess had been serving as the zoning administrator prior to being appointed interim village manager. He comes with more than 20 years of experience in municipal governance.

After graduating from Ferris State University with a degree in business administration, Van Ess was involved in a wide variety of family business ventures that included underground utilities and commercial development. His business expertise led to a position as township treasurer for three years and Tallmadge Township supervisor for 12 years, during which time he served on the Grand Rapids Utility Advisory Board. In Manistee he also worked a year in code enforcement before Witherspoon invited him to consider the zoning position in Pentwater.

Van Ess has been connected to the Pentwater community for 30 years through his wife’s family. He has had residences in Pentwater, in Fountain (his current

home), and on Hamlin Lake. During his interview on Monday night, open to the public’s observation and participation, Van Ess spoke about his love of the area and his work here. “I have a great respect for the council and staff, and I enjoy my working relationships with the staff. I have learned a great deal from the staff in the months I have been here, and I trust their wisdom. You have very competent people in place.”

Council President Mary Marshall invited Van Ess to share his views on the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats (SWOT analysis) of the community. He singled out the “strong sense of community and the competence of the new staff” as assets.

He pointed out the need for a “plan to maintain everything now offered, better cooperation with our neighbors, and updating all policies and procedures, particularly in zoning.”

He hopes to expand on the open communication Witherspoon started by “holding open meetings over coffee with residents, welcoming questions at any time, and making stronger connections with the DDA, the school and other community organizations.”

He affirmed council’s pursuit “of a strategic plan and a capital improvement plan that facilitates effective budget allocations.” He has a working knowledge of the village’s bookkeeping program, but he is quick to admit there are areas in which he will depend on staff for advice. His style of leadership includes delegation of responsibility. He acknowledged the challenges Pent-

Farmers Markets

water faces in “supporting an aging population, meeting a high financial burden for water and sewer moving forward, keeping the channel properly dredged, and establishing a positive view of municipal government.”

Following the interview, council members held a discussion, and many positive comments were expressed. Jared Griffis moved to hire Van Ess as village manager. Dan Nugent supported the motion, and the council (all members were present) unanimously approved. A contract will be drawn up for future approval.

Two representatives from Fleis & VandenBrink gave short reports under New Business earlier in the meeting. They requested contract change orders for the water supply chemical sequestration ($36,314) and for the lead line replacement (not to exceed $170,000). The funds will come from amounts already provided by grants that must be spent or will be lost. Both requests were unanimously approved.

Guests present were asked to leave while council went into closed session to discuss a memorandum of advice from the village attorney. The discussion resulted in giving Brian Monton authority to work with Pentwater Township on mediation regarding the north sewer system. The Township Board had previously approved mediation.

Discussion of the strategic plan was postponed until the Oct. 13 council meeting. A draft of the strategic plan is currently in process.

The meeting was adjourned at 8 p.m.

Toby Van Ess

By Sharon Hallack

The Oceana Echo Community Correspondent

Environment

News and Notes

The Oceana Conservation District’s 2025 Household Hazardous Waste Collection brought in a record amount of hazardous materials to be reused, recycled or safely disposed of.

• Kevin VanDyke/Echo

Here are the statistics provided by OCD: cars: 294; households represented: 321; electronics: 6,571 pounds; pesticides & other chemicals: 3,031 pounds; household misc: 7,932 pounds; Rx & Sharps: 189 pounds; controlled substances: 3 pounds; oil/auto fluids: 6,141 pounds; auto & RV batteries: 2,555 pounds; household batteries: 910; oilbased paint: 7,186 cans for a total of 34,518 pounds! Organizers believe this year’s collection topped the next highest total gathered in 2021: 28,131 pounds. The program is coordinated by a partnership between Oceana, Mason-Lake and Manistee Conservation Districts, and is supported by the Household Hazardous Waste Steering Committee, with a wide representation of community partners, including local municipalities. The OCD wishes to thank all community supporters, volunteers and those who gave donations to support this essential program. Great job everyone!

Schools

Local school children started a new school year at the beginning of this month. Back-to-school open houses across Oceana County districts saw hundreds of students and their parents visit their schools to meet new teachers and pick up necessary information to start the school year. Walkerville Public Schools held a fun “back-to-school carnival” with

games, prizes and a free hot dog supper. Hart Middle School greeted incoming 5th-8th graders and their parents and held grade-level-specific presentations in the auditorium. Shelby Middle School was proud to show off their newly renovated building. School superintendents, principals, teachers, support staff, cooks, custodians and bus drivers look forward to another year of learning. As all school districts will affirm, one of the most important things a parent or guardian can do to help their child succeed in school (and life) is to make sure they are in school every day. Parents and guardians are encouraged to stay in communication with their children’s school and to let them know if they need extra support. Your child’s school takes pride in helping children succeed in every area of life.

Arts & Culture

Free outdoor concerts were everywhere this summer, with more on the calendar yet this fall! From Silver Lake and Pentwater to Hart, New Era and Walkerville, there was rarely a night of the week where you couldn’t enjoy some live music and being “in community.” One of the newest venues for 2025 was “Music in the Garden,” sponsored by Main Street Spa in Hart. Owners, Tim and Patty Kersjes, welcomed various artists, including the Shelby Schools Jazz Band, Andy Patterson, Shelby Mason and 80 Cows. They report they are already working on their lineup for next summer.

An incredible turnout of 417 dads and their kindergarten-5th grade children attended the All-Pro Dad “2024-25 End of Year Celebration” combined with their “2025-26 Kickoff Event,” Tuesday, Sept. 16 at Craig’s Cruisers in Silver Lake. Everyone enjoyed lots of food and fun while 11 volunteers made sure everything ran smoothly. Organizers believe it to be the largest gathering ever, representing families from all six of Oceana County’s elementary schools. Monthly “Donuts with Dads,” before-school meet-ups will begin in October for Hart, Shelby, Walkerville and Pentwater Public Schools as well as Oceana Christian and New Era Christian schools. For more information contact Oceana County All Pro Dads Team Captain, Dennis Foley at 561-762-5447.

check for $2,500 from the St. Stephens Lutheran Church Chair-ity Trail from Judy Overway, above center, and Frank Blaauw, above right. Beckman said that the money would be put into the Ladder's general fund. Overway added that she enjoyed how this event brought the community together, and the church is looking into possibly doing it again in the future. • Amanda Dodge/Echo

Brian Beckman, above left, of The Ladder Community Center in Shelby recently received a

• Sharon Hallack/Echo

This page is brought to you by:

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

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

Discovering the 1970s musical time capsule Pentwater (the band)

By Claire Marshall The Oceana Echo Community Columnist

The summers of my high school years were spent in Pentwater, answering the unending questions tourists had with the monotony of a flight attendant in their thirtieth year of service. “The road to the beach is two blocks north.” “Don’t worry, that’s just the noon siren; there’s no tornado coming.” “There are public restrooms at the Hancock building.” “No, just because that item doesn’t have a price tag doesn’t mean it's free.”

One question that constantly irritated me, but that I couldn’t fault the questioner for asking, was about bumper stickers. “What does 5H2O stand for?”

Of course, having just completed 10th grade chemistry, I thought the answer was obvious - it stands for Pentwater. “Pent” or “penta” being a Greek-root prefix for 5, and H2O being the wellknown chemical formula for water.

The origin of the name “Pentwater” is debated. My assumption was always that it was, quite literally, named for the five waters associated with the town - the Pentwater River, the marshland, Pentwater Lake, the channel and Lake Michigan. I’ve heard other claims that it comes from “some Indian word,” which means “penned-up waters.” I’m not too convinced of the validity of this claim. Other sources do agree with my previous Greek prefix assumption.

The true origin of the name for the village, one of the oldest communities in Oceana County, probably didn’t matter to a group of Chicago teenagers in 1971 who decided to borrow the

name for their progressive rock (also referred to as “Prog Rock”) band.

Pentwater (the band) featured the various talents of guitarists Mike Konopka, Phil Goldman and Ron Fox, drummer and lead vocalist Tom Orsi, keyboardist Ken Kappel and bassist Ron LaSaar. All of these young musicians were from in and around suburban Chicago, all interested in experimental rock music, and all around the same age I was when I was directing tourists to the nearest ATM.

According to the history detailed on the band’s website, Pentwater (the band) had their first gig at their high school auditorium, following a speech given by Konopka for a freshman English class about “Being in a Band.” Why a group of high schoolers was allowed to perform experimental rock for a grade, I don’t know, probably because “it was the 70s,” and you could apparently get away with most anything then. Regardless, the performance was a hit, drawing in a crowd of students beyond the English class.

What followed through the early 70s was a string of performances at “friend’s parties, school dances, [Highland] Park district concerts, and church fundraisers,” covering a variety of popular rock music as well as performing a collection of their own original songs. A common aspect of their shows, particularly in later years, was the implementation of light shows set in time with the music to create a “multi-media” performance.

In 1977 they independently produced a self-titled LP with 12 songs. Eventually they expanded to playing gigs at college campuses and bars

Golden Fair planned for October 3 in downtown Mears

"Golden Harvest" is ripe in the Land of Mears. Summer is gone, and fall is in full swing - cooler days and nights are here. Peaches, pears and plums are gone, and apple pickers are busy filling boxes and crates. We have many varieties to pick from, with pies, cakes and muffins on the menu.

Another Golden Fair is being planned for Friday, Oct. 3, complete with a parade and lunch at the Golden Eatery with $2.50 hamburgers and $.75 coffee on the menu for all to enjoy.

The fourth grade students from Spitler Elementary in Hart will be in the parade, along with the Hart High School marching band. The parade will begin at the new town hall in Mears and will travel west through downtown. Students will be handing out a special issue of the Mears Newz made for the Golden Fair. Be sure to get a copy!

throughout the Midwest, as well as opening for bands such as “Journey, Rush, Michael Stanley Band, Angel, Hawkwind, Muddy Waters, Hound Dog Taylor, Birtha [and] many others.”

The years saw several members leave the band, oftentimes for college, and other musicians come in as replacements. While the mid-70s saw some success for Pentwater (the band) on a regional level, they disbanded in 1978. As explained on the band’s website, “After almost 10 years of trying to gain the right exposure in the right markets and failing to ink a deal with the proper label or management, the music alone isn’t strong enough to keep the effort alive and pay the bills.”

Though the band never found grand success, many of the members still continued to play or produce music even as they progressed into their “adult” lives. In the 90s and early 00s, they came back together to remix some of their old work to re-release for CDs and digital streaming, feeding a niche market for enjoyers of vintage Prog Rock.

Now, for the most important question - how did the band come to be named “Pentwater?” According to them, by “allegedly removing a tired, old, unnecessary state sign nobody needed on the Pentwater River in the state of Michigan, and by placing said sign in front of the drums, the band became known as ‘Pentwater River.’”

So…they stole a road sign from the Pentwater River. Allegedly.

They dropped the “River” in their name early on after too many people assumed they were a country or folk band and subsequently retired the sign.

Now, I don’t know the statute of limitations for stealing road signs, nor do I want a bunch of AARP-aged rockers getting busted for an over-50-year-old bit of teenaged tomfoolery, but I still have questions. Which of you Chicago teens frequented Pentwater, Michigan, for your family vacations? Where is the sign now? Would you consider playing at the Pentwater Village Green? Why is your music so unique? I see that an earlier iteration of your band was called Oceana County Pioneers and Businessman’s Band, clearly referencing the historical book "Oceana County Pioneers and Business Men of To-Day," published in 1890 - did you acquire this book through thievery, or is that just for road signs? Can you sign the Pentwater LP I just purchased online?

Any readers interested in learning more about the band can explore further on their website - pentwatermusic. com. They also have a YouTube channel called “Pentwater Music” where you can listen to their three available albums for free. Personally, my favorite song is “Memo,” off their self-titled album.

Hart High School class of 1959

•

The Hart High School class of 1959 met in August at Open Hearth Grille in Mears to celebrate their 66th class reunion. Classmates pictured above, back row, from left, are Judy Bailey, Dale Robbins, David Schauer, Norm Van Sickle, Bob Chapman and Mike Powers. Middle row, from left, Dorothy Rought, Darlene England, Lois Malburg, Jan Lathers, David Gray and Judy Conner. Front row, from left, Tom Worth, Maureen Wiegand, Nancy Herrygers, Geraldine Bectal, Lola Birkenbach and Nancy Lukonic.

Echo Photo

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.

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)

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:

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

Oct. 11: Party Club for Kids age 5-12, 1-2:30 p.m.

Oct. 16: “Rise Up & Lean In” Women’s Event, 6-8 p.m. (sign up req.)

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: Oct. 7 - Nov. 25 Pit Stops for Men Age 12+, 6:30-7:30pm

TUES: Men’s Bible Study, 10:30 a.m. to noon

SAT: “Celebrate” Worship Service, 6:30 p.m.

Complete schedule at: theladdercommunitycenter.com

Walkerville Boosters plan 16th Annual Spirit Day

Walkerville Boosters 16th Annual Spirit Day will take place next Saturday, Oct. 4, from 4-6 p.m. at Walkerville Public Schools at 145 E. Lathrop St. in Walkerville.

It will be a Wildcat spirit-filled event for sure with many favorite carnival games and activities, including the cake walk, raffles, a dunk tank, bounce houses, prizes and homemade food.

A dinner of homemade pork BBQs, au gratin potatoes, dessert and beverages will be offered for $8 per person. Hot dogs will also be available, and children under four can eat free with every paid dinner. Attendees are also encouraged to check out the 4th Annual Chili Contest and vote for their favorite recipe.

Game tickets are $.25 each with activities ranging from $.25 to $1. A raffle with many prizes will also be available. Raffle tickets are $1 each or six tickets for $5.

New this year, through the support of two local deer ranches, the Walkerville Boosters are able to offer two raffle prize drawings for two different hunting packages. Tickets are $5 each. One is a “First-Time Doe Hunt Package” from The Wildlife Center at Legends Ranch for one first-time hunter and one adult. The second is a “Guided Doe Hunt at Twin Creeks Hunting Ranch” and will allow any age hunter and one guest the opportunity to take one doe.

For more information, or to volunteer for any Walkerville Booster events, please visit Walkerville Boosters on Facebook.

Pentwater Fall Fest set for this weekend

The Pentwater Chamber of Commerce is hosting the 35th Annual Fall Fest Arts, Crafts & Antiques Show Sept. 27 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sept. 28 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on the Village Green in Pentwater.

More than 100 talented craftspeople, artists and a few antique dealers will have displays. Shoppers can explore furniture, fall decor, pottery, hand-woven accessories, jewelry, glass art, photography, paintings and other creations.

The Pentwater Service Club will operate their Duncan Wagon, serving hot dogs, brats, and more. The Pentwater Fire Department will once again offer their famous BBQ.

As part of the weekend, visitors are also invited to join the Pentwater Township Cemetery Fall Walking Tours, with this year’s theme, Maritime Memories.

Tours will be held Sept. 27 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. and Sept. 28 from 1 and 2 p.m. and take participants through both the old and new sections of the cemetery. Admission is free, with donations welcomed. Parking is available at North End Park on Hancock Street, the side yard of 816 N. Hancock St. and in limited spaces at the cemetery.

S eptember -O ctO ber

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

Sept. 27 - Maritime Memories, Pentwater Township Cemetery Fall Tour, 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.

Sept. 28 - Harvest Festival, Pentwater 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Sept. 28 - Maritime Memories, Pentwater Township Cemetery Fall Tour, 1 and 2 p.m.

Sept. 29 - Versiti Blood Drive, W. MI. Research Station, Hart, 8 a.m. to 12:20 p.m.

Sept. 30 - Invasive Species Workshop, OCD office, 6-7 p.m.

Sept. 30 - Adult Craft Night, Hesperia Community Library, 6-7 p.m.

Oct. 2 - Versiti Blood Drive, W. MI. Research Station, Hart, 2-6:25 p.m.

Oct. 3 - Feeding America Mobile Food Pantry (drive through), New Hope Community Church, Shelby, 4:30 p.m.

Oct. 3 - Feeding America Mobile Food Pantry (drive through), Walkerville Public Schools, 5 p.m.

Oct. 3 - Hart High School Homecoming Parade, 4:30 p.m.

Oct. 3 - Hesperia High School Homecoming Parade, 5 p.m.

Oct. 4 - ArtWalk, Downtown Hart, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Downtown Hart to host full weekend of events

Downtown Hart will be buzzing with activity the weekend of Oct. 4–5, as the community celebrates three major events: the 4th Annual ArtWalk, the 4th Annual HartPrize and the 2nd Annual Ride Around Home cycling event. Together, these events highlight Hart’s thriving arts community, local talent and love of the outdoors.

The ArtWalk is Saturday, Oct. 4 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Eight artists will showcase their work in downtown businesses, giving attendees the chance to meet creators and explore unique pieces. Hart Commons will feature free kids’ crafts, rock painting, and a live chalk artist. Catfish and the Man from Grand Haven will perform from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., and Blue Line BBQ will be on site with food for purchase.

HartPrize is Saturday, Oct. 4 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Presented by the H-Art Project, this year’s Photo Realism Competition invites artists to recreate one of two scenic Hart photographs onsite for a chance to win $500. Finished works will be displayed downtown through October, with public voting in two categories (beginner/intermediate and advanced/professional). Winners will be announced Nov. 3 on the City of Hart Facebook page. Registration is open at takemetohart.org/hartprize and there is a $10 entry fee.

The Ride Around Home will take place over two days. Cyclists can enjoy scenic riding across 46 miles on the Rail Trail, with aid stations and post-ride food on Saturday, Oct. 4. A portion of proceeds benefits the Pentwater–Hart Bike Trail. On Sunday, Oct. 5, a self-guided tour of Oceana County with aid stations will be offered. Both rides run from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. For details, contact Oceana Bike and Boat.

“This year’s lineup is a true celebration of everything that makes Hart special—our art, our talent, and our outdoor spirit,” Events Coordinator Lindsay Brown said. “We look forward to welcoming residents and visitors alike to experience Hart at its very best.”

For more information, visit https://www.takemetohart.org/ or contact Brown at (231) 923-3837.

Autumn Country Roads Shop Hop is next Saturday

The 4th Annual Autumn Country Roads Shop Hop is Saturday, Oct. 4, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Eight different unique home-based shops are on the “hop,” including: Abundant Blessings Gifts & Art (6950 W. Arthur Rd., New Era); Claybanks Pottery (7060 S. Scenic Dr., New Era); Crosby Farm Market (2264 E. Tyler Rd., Hart); The Garden Shed (7895 S. 44th Ave., Montague); Merten’s Farmhouse Market (230 E. Polk Rd., Hart); On The Farm (6894 W. Lake Rd., Mears); Pole Barn and A Passion (3817 W. Taylor Rd., Hart); and The Secret Garden at Moondancers Meadow (3306 S. 60th Ave., Shelby).

Shoppers will be able to select from a wide variety of handcrafted items, including florals, pottery, jewelry and fiber arts, locally grown and/or made edibles, art, unique upcycled and collectible items, goodies and hot beverages. Those who visit all eight locations will be eligible to win one of eight $25 gift certificates.

More information is available at the Autumn Country Roads Shop Hop on Facebook.

Two upcoming blood drives planned in Hart

Versiti Blood Center of Michigan will be hosting the following upcoming blood drives in the next two weeks: Monday, Sept. 29 from 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and Thursday, Oct. 2, from 2-6:20 p.m. at the West Michigan Research Station located at 5185 N. Oceana Dr. in Hart.

Blood donations are needed for transfusions during lifesaving procedures (organ transplants, major surgeries and treatments) or in emergencies for trauma victims (car accidents or acts of violence). Every pint of blood donated at these upcoming drives goes directly to Michigan hospitals for patients facing all sorts of physical needs.

Interested donors are encouraged to reach out to Kathy Roskam at 231-8616353 or krcmmom@hotmail.com for the aforementioned blood drives. Regular and new, first-time donors are needed and very much appreciated to help fill all available appointments.

St. James Episcopal Church in Pentwater welcomes new part-time pastor

By AnnaMae Bush The Oceana Echo Community Contributor

Saint James Episcopal Church in Pentwater has welcomed the Rev. David Blank as pastor on a part-time basis.

Blank began life as a “PK,” or preacher’s kid. “They are rumored to be ‘the worst,’ and I’m afraid I didn’t prove the rumor wrong.” His father was a Lutheran pastor in western Pennsylvania, and despite the trials of being a PK, David felt called to the ministry. He has been in ministry for 42 years, starting with two small Scandinavian Lutheran churches in Northwestern Pennsylvania. He continued with a Slovak Lutheran Church in upstate New York for 10 years, followed by six years as chaplain in a nursing home with 400 residents. He also supported several small churches by training student pastors.

His last pastorate in Warren, Pennsylvania, was with a large Lutheran church, after which he moved to Michigan. He served St. Luke Lutheran Church in Grand Rapids and St. David Episcopal Church in Lansing. The Evangelical Lutheran Church in America and the Episcopal Church have an agreement that clergy and members can move freely between the denominations. Blank said, “I felt very comfortable in both settings. Since 2021 I have served only in the Episcopal Church. During a recent two-year interim ministry at St. Mark Episcopal Church in Grand Rapids, I explored formal accreditation in the Episcopal Diocese of Western Michigan, now the

Episcopal Diocese of the Great Lakes. I filed the necessary paperwork and was formally received two years ago.”

Although he qualifies age-wise for retirement, he is not ready to retire. “I think there is still ‘more tread on the tire,’ and I love the ministry. My position at St. James is part-time but is not an interim position.” Blank and his wife, Judy, have a home in Rockford, where they typically spend most weekdays, coming to Pentwater some time on Friday and returning to Rockford some time on Monday. The schedule does not preclude occasional day trips for special events. St. James Church provides the Blanks a home near the church and is creating a space in the church for him to have a small office there. He has been serving the church for four weeks.

Blank has found the community warm and hospitable and the members of the congregation eager to serve and ready for challenges. He affirms, “God’s love is for everyone, and my challenge is to find the best way to share that love with the community. I am ecumenically minded and wish to work cooperatively with the other local churches.” He and his wife enjoy walking and purchased e-bikes to get around town and meet residents. Blank reports she is an RN by trade but also a very talented artist who oil paints and works with glass ornaments. In addition to Judy’s creativity, he is grateful for her support – “I couldn’t be a pastor without her support. When I was discouraged during COVID and ready to consider leaving the ministry, she gave me the courage I needed to continue.”

News one might find unusual for a pastor includes that he and his wife met on eHarmony in 2007. Add to that he has a certificate in enology (the art of making wine) and has won multiple gold and sil-

John the Baptist Catholic Chapel St. John the Baptist Chapel

ver awards in many state/national wine competitions for his uniquely flavored wines. His second surprising hobby is repairing Lionel trains, a skill he markets on an Etsy website. “I love taking train engines up to 100 years old and getting them to run again.”

It doesn’t take much time to discover that Blank is a wonderful listener. The support he looks for, in addition to prayer, is help in making connections. “I like listening to people’s stories to connect with them. If you meet me, tell me how you got to be here in Pentwater.”

The Hart High School 2025 Homecoming Court is pictured above. Back row, from left are, Freshman Julian Tejado, Sophomore Jose Arredondo, Junior Aiden Schaner, Seniors Abdel Lopez, Hollis Rockwell, Jagger Lenon and Chase Lorenzo, and Foreign Exchange Students Aurora Virtanen and Jorge Tapia Lopez. Front row, from left are, Freshman Caeley Aerts, Sophomore Joselyn Flores, Junior Jenna Babbin, Seniors Grace Hallack, Rowan Best, Addison Hain and Lauren Hopkins, and Foreign Exchange Students Giulia Cremonese and Martina Saenz Ugena. Not pictured is Foreign Exchange Student Lorenzo Furlan. • Contributed Photo

Spirit week starts Sunday for Hart Public Schools

Hart High School's Homecoming events will kick off Sunday, Sept. 28, with the annual Powderpuff games starting at 6 p.m. at the football field.

The Homecoming theme this year is Around the World, and Spirit Week will commence on Monday, Sept. 29, with students sporting their college apparel for College Day. The remaining Spirit Days include: Class Color Wars, Celebrity Day, Tourist Day and Pirate

Pride Day. On Friday, Oct. 3, students will participate in a pep rally in the afternoon.

The parade will begin at 4:30 p.m. and will feature each class float: Freshmen in Tokyo, Sophomores in Paris, Juniors in New York City, and Seniors in Las Vegas. The football game will begin at 7 p.m. against the Mason County Central Spartans. The dance will take place on Saturday at 8 p.m.

Rev. David Blank

In Loving Memory of our Family, Friends and Neighbors

obituaries

Laura Mischler

April 19, 1937 ~ September 19, 2025

Laura Mischler, 88, of Montague, passed away Friday, September 19, 2025. She was born April 19, 1937, at home in Gage, Kentucky, one of 15 children to Ben and Bessie (Rowe) Clemons.

The family moved to Ohio in 1940, moving again in the 1950s to Stockbridge, Michigan, where the family settled. After marrying her late husband, Melvin (Mel), they moved in 1966 to Webster Road in Montague, Michigan, where the last of their nine children were born.

Laura’s first job was at the age of 3, checking eggs by candlelight for baby chicks to ensure the eggs were good for eating. She worked the muck fields for many years chopping onions, even while pregnant with most of the girls. Laura eventually became a cook/waitress at the restaurant she and Mel opened in Shelby in the late 60’s. Laura later worked at Howmet, retiring after 31 years. Laura and Mel converted a school bus into a camper, taking many trips to Canada. After retirement, Laura stayed busy, spending 15 winters in Florida, and summers were spent visiting family in Stockbridge and old Howmet friends. Up until the past few weeks, Laura tended to the self-serve corn and asparagus stand, riding her scooter out to tidy things up.

Laura enjoyed: yard sales and auctions, making ceramics, reading until her eyes began to fail, crocheting and gardening, moving flowers from one location to the other, playing Dominos, Checkers and Phase 10 were favorites, and watching Dr. Stanley on TV was a normal occurrence when stopping to visit.

Family was important to Laura; she talked to each of the kids at least weekly. Laura would keep the others up to date on the other kids and grandchildren. With nine kids, it was amazing how she kept up with each one of the families, including updates on cousins, Aunt Hazel and Aunt Faye.

Laura is survived by: her children, JoAnn Harrelson, Patty Kelly, Connie Worden, Sandy Bailey, Juanita (Steve) Fletcher, Sheila (Ted) Mays, Bill (Kim) Mischler and Dan Mischler; 18 grandchildren; 31 great-grandchildren; and 11 great-great-grandchildren.

Laura was preceded in death by: her parents, Ben and Bessie; husband, Melvin; and daughter, Ronda Flores.

Funeral services will be conducted at 11 a.m., Saturday, September 27, 2025, at Harris Funeral Home, 267 N. Michigan Ave., Shelby, Michigan 49455, with Pastor Steve Lister officiating. Visitation will be held from 10 a.m. until the start of services, Saturday, September 27, 2025, at Harris Funeral Home. Interment will be in Oak Grove Cemetery, Rothbury.

Harris Funeral Home, in Shelby, is in charge of arrangements. harrisfhome.com

Eugene Edward Knoth October 23, 1935 ~ September 19, 2025

Eugene Edward Knoth, 89, of Whitehall, passed away Friday, September 19, 2025. He was born October 23, 1935, in Newaygo, the son of Erwin and Eugenia (Martin) Knoth.

Gene proudly served our country in the United States Army. After being drafted, he spent his service in Louisiana and Texas before settling in Whitehall. He received his associate degree from Muskegon Community College and worked as an electrical engineer for DuPont in Montague for the rest of his career.

On August 23, 1958, Gene married the love of his life, Vivian, who preceded him in death.

Gene could light up any room with his smile, and anyone that he met was a friend for life. He loved to spend time with friends and family, and nearly every morning he could be found at Gary’s Restaurant. Gene was a bit of a renaissance man, in that he was interested and talented at so many things. He could fix nearly anything and loved tinkering with his classic cars. He loved to watch football, his favorite teams being the Michigan Wolverines and the Detroit Lions. Over the years he enjoyed waterskiing, motorcycling, snowmobiling, flying, bowling, golf and hunting. He was a deadeye shot with any sort of weapon. He was a proud lifetime member of Fox Lake Rod & Gun Club and was a weekly shooter up until very recently.

Gene is survived by: his son, Kurt (Wendy) Knoth; grandchildren, Adeline (Christian) Knoth-Miller and Benjamin Knoth; brother, David Knoth; sisters, Rosemary Stockwell, Carol (Randy) Hill and Anita (Mark) Boyd; sister-in-law Dianne (Terry) Sanders; and dozens of cousins, nephews and nieces.

Gene was preceded in death by: his parents; brother, Wayne Knoth; his twin brother, James; and numerous sisters- and brothers-in-law.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Whitehall American Legion, Post 69.

A memorial service with Military Honors will be held at 11 a.m., Monday, September 29, 2025, at Beacon Cremation & Funeral Service, White Lake Chapel, 413 S. Mears Ave., Whitehall, MI 49461, with his nephew, Jimmy Knoth, officiating. Visitation will start at 10 a.m. until the time of service, and a luncheon will follow the service at Gary’s Restaurant in Whitehall. Beacon Cremation & Funeral Service, White Lake Chapel is in charge of arrangements. www.beaconfh.com

Theresa Ann Bretch

December 7, 1951 ~ September 20, 2025

It is with sadness we are sharing the passing of Theresa Ann Bretch, a dear wife, mother, sister-in-law, aunt and friend. Terri, 73, of Montague, passed away, Saturday, September 20, 2025. She was born December 7, 1951, the daughter of Beryl and Jack Bretch. Terri was raised by her grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Oscar Holt, in the Village of Thurston, Ohio.

Terri graduated from Liberty Union High School in 1970 and then Ohio University in 1974 with a bachelor's degree. It was at O.U. that Terri met and married Bruce Wright. They began married life in Atlanta, Georgia, and eventually ended up together in Montague, Michigan.

Growing up, Terri enjoyed participating in 4-H, where she excelled in cooking and sewing. She also made it to the National Spelling Bee when she was 14. She continued to use these skills with creative crafts and eventually a career as a court reporter. Prior to that, she worked for the Federal Reserve Bank.

Terri is remembered for her quick sense of humor, sharp wit and spontaneously breaking out in song.

Terri is survived by her husband, Bruce Wright, and extended family.

Terri was preceded in death by: her parents; grandparents; sister; and only son, Rudy Saldona.

In accordance with Theresa’s wishes, cremation has taken place, and a private gathering will take place at a later time.

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

Donald A. Lohman

July 22, 1934 ~ September 8, 2025

Donald A. Lohman, aged 91, of Grant Township, Michigan, went to be with his Lord on September 8, 2025. He was a lifelong resident of Grant Township, being born there to Victor and Louise (Timmich) Lohman on July 22, 1934.

Don is survived by his wife of 65 years, Dale (Cook) Lohman; sons, Tim (Jeanette) and Todd (Kristi) Lohman; grandchildren, Nathan, Sara (Eddie) Fisher, Matthew (Meredith) and Emily (Joshua) Bergsma; and seven great-grandchildren, Lucas and Elise Fisher, Claire, Hadley and Jack Lohman, and Weston and Rosalie Bergsma.

Don was preceded in death by his parents and 13 siblings.

In accordance with Don's wishes, cremation has taken place, and there will be no memorial service at this time.

Harris Funeral Home, in Shelby, is in charge of arrangements. harrisfhome.com

Friday, Oct. 10:

6:30-7:00 pm Registration & refreshments 7:00-9:00 pm “Becoming a Disciple” Free Will Offering: Operation Christmas Child

Saturday, Oct. 11: 9:30-10:00 am Registration & refreshments 10:00-12:00 “Making Disciples” Free Will Offering: The Ladder Community Center

Saturday, Oct. 11: 12:00-1:00 pm Lunch & Fellowship Time

Saturday, Oct. 11: 1:00-3:00 pm “Bringing Discipleship to the World” Free Will Offering: Good News Nepal

Come help the churches and ministries of Oceana County and our

FROM KING FEATURES WEEKLY SERVICE,

300 W. 57th STREET, 15th FLOOR, NEW

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NOW HERE’S A TIP #12345_20250915 FOR RELEASE SEPT. 15, 2025

By JoAnn Derson

• On Sept. 29, 1780, British spy John André, an accomplice of Benedict Arnold, was court-martialed, found guilty and sentenced to death by hanging. He wrote to Gen. George Washington asking to be executed by firing squad instead, which was considered a more “gentlemanly” death, but though Washington attempted to have him exchanged for Arnold, the original sentence was carried out on Oct. 2.

STRANGE BUT TRUE #12345_20250915 FOR RELEASE SEPT. 15, 2025

• On Sept. 30, 1918, President Woodrow Wilson gave a speech before Congress in which he supported a guarantee that women would be granted the right to vote. The House of Representatives had approved a 19th constitutional amendment giving women suffrage, but Congress would not pass the amendment for another year.

By Lucie Winborne

• On Oct. 1, 1958, the American Express company issued its first charge card, made of purple paperboard, in the U.S. and Canada, to give traveling customers more flexibility.

• On Oct. 2, 1965, during a football game between the University of Florida Gators and the Louisiana State University Tigers, UF players tested a new sports drink developed in the school’s science labs to help them regain essential chemicals their bodies lost through sweating. The Gators won their match and the drink now known as Gatorade went on to make its investors wealthy.

• On Oct. 3, 2011, an Italian appeals court overturned the murder conviction of American exchange student Amanda Knox, who’d been found guilty of stabbing her British roommate, Meredith Kercher, to death in 2007. Imprisoned since her arrest, Knox flew back to the States the following day.

• On Oct. 4, 1970, singer Janis Joplin was found dead of an accidental heroin overdose in her Los Angeles hotel room after failing to attend a recording session. She was putting the finishing touches on the album titled “Pearl,” that would prove to be the biggest hit of her career.

• On Oct. 5, 1892, the infamous Dalton Gang attempted a daylight robbery of two Coffeyville, Kansas, banks simultaneously. After someone recognized a member and spread word of the crime, the townspeople ran for their guns and surrounded the two banks, then took justice into their own hands, killing all but Emmett Dalton, who, incredibly, survived prison and eventually ended up as a Hollywood screenwriter.

ANIMAL SHELTER

Hi, there! I’m Takanni, a 2-year-old male husky with all the standard-issue husky features: Social? Check. Vocal? Oh, you’ll hear me. Smart? Like, scary smart. Athletic? I could run a marathon, take a nap, and then run another.

If you’ve never had a husky before, allow me to translate what that means:

• I will make friends with every stranger I see. Yes, even that delivery guy you don’t like.

• I will sing you the song of my people. Often. And with feeling.

• I will run like the wind and then act offended when you ask me to come inside.

• I will love you... but only if you understand that I am a majestic creature of the north, not a basic house pet. Takanni is available for adoption from the Oceana County Animal Control. If interested, please call the shelter at 231-861-5395. The adoption fee for cats is $35 and you receive certificates for $25 towards spay/neuter and $10 towards rabies if not already done. The adoption fee for dogs is $95 and 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. Meet Takanni

• If you get a gray-colored film on your utensils after they come out of the dishwasher, try cleaning them with a cream of tartar paste. Additionally, clean out the filter regularly.

• “I love my blender and use it all the time, but I don’t always have time to clean the blades properly when I’m in a rush. There is a spot under the blades that I find it hard to clean if my smoothie gets dried on. I have found a way to clean it now, though, with rice! A couple of spoonfuls in the otherwise clean blender, and the rice buffs any residue right off. I even use the rice powder in a homemade facial mask that makes my skin feel great!” — D.W. in Oregon

• Have you nailed down your holiday shopping list yet? Many find it distasteful to see Christmas and other holiday items out so early, but studies show that the earlier you start, the less you spend. Likely because you are not rushed and are able to take advantage of sales and to shop smart.

• Use cola to marinate your meat! The acids in the soda pop make meat nice and tender before cooking, and sugar can actually give you a nice caramel flavor on the outside too. You can use a cola bath for meat on the grill or search cookbooks or internet sites for great slow-cooker recipes.

• “If your cat regularly has issues with hair balls, try giving it a teaspoon of olive oil a day. Mine loves it and will lick it right off a saucer, but you could drizzle it over food too. It’s better than butter, because it’s good fats not bad.”

— Y.E. in Missouri

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

BIDS WANTED VILLAGE OF

The Village of New Era is accepting bids for snow plowing for the upcoming season. For spec sheets, please call 231-578-1983. Bids open at 6:45 PM on October 9, 2025.

By Lucie Winborne

• The U.S. postmaster general was in the line of succession to the presidency until 1971.

• There are more mobile phones than people alive.

• In the late 18th century, Sweden’s King Gustav III tried to prove that coffee was a deadly substance by making one twin drink coffee and the second one tea on a daily basis, while betting on which would be the first to succumb. Both twins survived and outlived both the king and the doctors conducting the experiment.

• The longest English word that generally appears in dictionaries is “pneumonoultramicroscopicsilicovolcanoconiosis,” the name of a lung disease.

• Watermelons were often used as canteens by early explorers and travelers.

• The tobacco industry spends almost $4 billion per year to promote smoking, more than is spent advertising and promoting any other product.

• Black holes aren’t black. They glow slightly, giving off light across the whole spectrum.

• The world’s largest playable guitar is 43.5 feet long.

• Before an NHL game, hockey pucks are frozen to make them glide more smoothly and reduce bouncing.

• The ancient Greeks believed that amethysts could ward off intoxication and hangovers, so they often drank wine from cups carved from the gemstone.

• Seven percent of Americans steal toilet paper rolls in hotels or motels.

• About 70-75% of the world’s population does not even use toilet paper.

• In 2009 a pigeon named Winston raced Telkom, South Africa’s largest ISP, to see which one could deliver 4GB of data to a location 60 miles away the fastest. By the time Winston arrived with the 4GB flash drive, Telkom had transmitted only 4% of the data. ***

Thought for the Day: “The two most important days in your life are the day you are born … and the day you find out why.” —

PUBLIC NOTICE

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.

Mark Twain

Inc.

Oceana County

Shelby marks major road improvements in 2025

As the 2025 road construction season comes to a close, the Shelby community has seen much progress made in improving the quality and durability of the local roads. Over the past two years, coordinated efforts between Shelby Township, the Oceana County Road Commission, the Michigan Department of Transportation and the Village of Shelby have resulted in transformative infrastructure upgrades that enhance safety, mobility, and overall quality of life for residents and visitors alike.

Within the village limits, Shelby maintains approximately 14 miles of roadway, including six miles of "Major Streets," such as State, Sixth, Ferry and First, and eight miles of "Local Streets," including Cherry, Runner, Aspen Hill and Elliott. These classifications are important, as Major and Local Streets are funded through different sources and require distinct maintenance strategies.

Between 2024 and 2025, a total of 5.1 miles of road were rebuilt using "mill & fill" or "crush & shape" methods—2.9 miles in 2024 and 2.2

miles in 2025. Additionally, in 2025, five more miles of roadway received surface maintenance treatments such as chip seal, crack pour, Durapatching, and fog seal. In total, over 10 miles of road work have been completed in just two years, covering more than 70% of the village’s entire road network.

Mill & fill involves removing and replacing the top 1.5 inches of asphalt, offering a cost-effective way to extend the life of a road. Crush & shape is a more intensive process that removes the entire

asphalt surface, reshapes the base, and lays a new 3–4 inch asphalt layer, resulting in a longer-lasting repair. Estimated costs for these methods range from $240,000 to $315,000 per mile for mill & fill and $370,000 to $500,000 per mile for crush & shape, depending on road width and depth.

Funding for these improvements comes from a combination of State of Michigan road funding and a local road millage of 4.1 mills. Annual budgets for road construction and maintenance are approxi-

Correction

mately $200,000 for Major Streets and $170,000 for Local Streets.

Looking ahead, Village Administrator Phil Morse stated, "We've made significant progress, but some streets remain in poor condition, and I assure residents that these areas have not been forgotten. Road projects are prioritized based on available funding, road condition assessments, and coordination with upcoming underground utility work such as water, sewer and storm drain systems. This strategic ap-

proach ensures that roads are not rebuilt only to be torn up again for utility repairs shortly thereafter."

thanks its residents for their continued patience and support.

WEARE TOWNSHIP DUMP DAY

SATURDAY, OCT. 4, 2025 9AM TO 1PM

WEARE TOWNSHIP HALL NO TIRES, APPLIANCES, OR HAZARDOUS WASTE

SEALED BID NOTICE VILLAGE OF SHELBY

Date: 9/17/2025

For Sale: 2017 Ford Police Interceptor Utility AWD 94,000 miles.

In the Sept. 12, 2025 edition of The Oceana Echo, the article, “Divided Shelby Village council approves IGA Lease for community pool” reported Village Administrator Phil Morse said, “...the pool would be free for village and township residents, while everyone else would pay prorated fees based on where they live.”

Morse contacted the Echo and shared what the actual fee schedule is, “Usage of the proposed pool will be based on a tiered usage fee.” He encourages everyone to visit the village’s website, www.shelbyvillage.com, where many other important questions are addressed. Select the “Community” tab, click on “News & Updates” and find the Sept. 10, 2025 post entitled, “Shelby Community Pool Project - Taking the Next Step.”

According to the village website, the pool will be open to the public, with a tiered pricing structure as follows: Shelby residents at the lowest rate, Oceana County residents at a moderate rate and out-of-county visitors at a standard rate.

Our thanks to the Village of Shelby and Shelby Township for their service to this community. The Oceana Echo apologizes for the error.

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.

The Village of Shelby

Tigers top Hesperia in county battle

Brown dominates at the net for Shelby

By Andy Roberts

The Oceana Echo Community Contributor

SHELBY — Shelby didn’t take the easy route to Tuesday’s sweep of Oceana County foe Hesperia Tuesday, but the Tigers got the win just the same, taking a 25-7, 25-20, 25-12 victory.

After rolling through game oneand celebrating Brylee Friedman’s recent 1,000th career dig in front of the home crowd - Shelby sputtered early in games two and three, allowing Hesperia to take the early lead both times. However, the home team responded both times and were able to polish off the victory.

“Something we’ve struggled with a lot this season is keeping our focus through an entire set,” Shelby coach McKenna Peters said. “There’s been a lot of games where we get a lead of 10-11 points and then let teams come back in. That’s been the biggest thing. A lot of things happened in set one that were super exciting, and we lost our focus a little bit. We just had to reel them back in and focus on the game.”

It helped that Shelby (8-14, 2-1 West Michigan Conference Rivers) had star hitter Kylie Brown to turn to. Brown was set the ball a lot Tuesday, especially in game three, and delivered some blistering hits. She went for

a .621 hitting percentage, recording 15 kills on just 21 attempts.

Peters said Brown can jump well and has a high swing, preventing her from getting blocked that often. She’s the clear focal point of the offense.

“When we’re able to get her in a good spot, she’s really strong for us,” Peters said of Brown. “That’s a big part of our goal, is getting our passes to our setter (Peyton Rapes) enough so we can run her more often. We’ve noticed in games when our passing isn’t as on and we can’t run her, we struggle a little bit.”

Rapes had a good match for the Tigers, collecting 33 assists. Friedman added 12 kills.

Briar Peters, younger sister of the coach, had a key serving run late in game two, helping the Tigers erase a 15-8 deficit and jump ahead 17-16 be-

Turnovers doom Shelby in WMC Rivers loss to Ravenna

By Andy Roberts The Oceana Echo Community Contributor

Echo community correspondent Amanda Dodge contributed to this story.

The turnover bug bit Shelby too often Friday night to allow a Tigers’ victory, and visiting Ravenna took advantage with a dominant second half, taking a 30-8 win.

The score was deadlocked at halftime, 8-8, with Isaac Garcia running in a short touchdown for Shelby and Brody Fessenden barreling in for the two-point conversion, but three second-half interceptions and some struggles moving the ball by the Tigers turned the tide in Ravenna’s favor.

“We can’t turn the ball over three times in one half and expect good things to happen,” Shelby coach Phil Fortier said. “That’s what happens when you do that to a good team. You give them the football back, and eventually they’re going to score.”

The Tigers managed only 154 offensive yards and only 59 on the ground, but the biggest issue for Shelby was it simply didn’t have the ball often enough. The Tigers’ statistics re-

ported only 36 offensive snaps, which puts any offense into trouble.

“I give a lot of credit to Ravenna,” Fortier said. “They came out and played great football, mistake-free football tonight, and we had all we could handle...I don’t feel like we reacted terribly well to the adversity that was in front of us.”

Trevor Weiss was the top Tiger offensive performer, hauling in six of his team’s seven completions for 67 yards. Jaylin Henderson had 56 total offensive yards between passing and throwing. Fessenden had a team-best six tackles on defense.

In the long term, Fortier said, a loss

fore ultimately taking the game.

Peters perhaps isn’t armed with quite the explosive attacking talent of her older sister - at least not yet - but she’s displayed her volleyball acumen much of the season, consistently finding herself among the team’s stat leaders in a given match. She was again Tuesday, with a team-best seven aces and 11 digs, second on the team to Ariana Garza’s 22.

“She has a really strong volleyball knowledge,” coach Peters said. “She’s undersized, and sometimes it’s a bit of a struggle when we play bigger teams. We’ve been working a lot on using your blockers as your power and hitting high, and so she’s learned to just stay aggressive and swing high.”

Hesperia coach Erin Redinger-Rottier said she felt her team was too tentative, hoping the Tigers would beat themselves. A few errors were big parts of Hesperia’s grabbing early leads in games two and three, but outside of a good stretch of game two, the Panthers (4-7, 1-3 WMC Rivers) didn’t play with the confidence their coach hoped to see.

“It’s not something that will change overnight, but I’m trying to instill it in them every day,” Redinger-Rottier said. “We’re stepping up and doing it, and we just need everybody, and we need every play. We don’t have a lot of

County battle continued on page 11

like Friday’s is part of “a growth process” as the Tigers continue to build toward becoming a playoff-caliber squad.

“We compete hard, but we’re at a stage in our program right now where we’ve got to figure out, how do we win games when things go wrong? How do we react to that?” Fortier said. “It was a tough night for the Shelby Tigers, but we will regroup and we will get back out there.”

Back out there next week, for Shelby (2-2, 1-2 West Michigan Conference Rivers), means a homecoming tussle against county foe Hesperia. Fortier said the Tigers will focus on better communication on defense and improving blocking on offense this week in practice.

“We’ve got some things to figure out,” Fortier said. “We’ve got some things to fix. That’s what practices are for, so that’s what we’ll do.”

Hart defense stands tall, but Pirates fall short

Hart’s defense recovered well after falling into a quick deficit Friday night against Kent City, but the Pirate offense was unable to erase that deficit in a tough 15-6 defeat.

The Eagles scored all 15 of their points in the first half, and Hart (2-2) got two big stops in the second to give itself a chance to come back.

Shelby’s Brylee Friedman goes for an attack while Hesperia defenders Eliana Sanker (12) and Emma Evans leap to block it during Tuesday’s match at Shelby. The Tigers won, 3-0.

• Andy Roberts/Echo

Shelby quarterback Jaylin Henderson (16) leaps over a Ravenna foe to gain more yards during Friday’s WMC Rivers game at Shelby. DayDay Garcia leads the way. The Tigers lost the game, 30-8. • Amanda Dodge/Echo

Hesperia’s Sarissa Conkle tries to get an attack past Shelby’s Kylie Brown (4) and Annabelle Stark during Tuesday’s match at Shelby. • Andy Roberts/Echo

Shelby quarterback Jaylin Henderson (16) follows Brody Fessenden after taking the snap during Friday’s game at Shelby. • Amanda Dodge/Echo

First “Unicorn Open” honors Bella Durga’s memory

By Andy Roberts

Benona Shores Golf Course looked a little different than usual Sunday, Sept. 14. Instead of the usual array of experienced players and weekend hackers, people out on the course saw many golfers wearing bright colors, especially pink; golf carts decked out in shiny decorations and Mickey Mouse-shaped cutouts; and various prizes given away.

It was part of the first-ever Unicorn Open, a fundraiser for Bella’s Place and a partner organization, Michigan-based Canines for Change. The event took place in honor and memory of Bella Durga, who passed away at five years old in February 2022 from Sudden Unexplained Death in Childhood (SUDC), a rare occurrence that causes some 400 deaths per year in children one year of age or older. It bears similarities to Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS), which affects children under one year old, in that it has no known cause - though researchers have speculated that

undetected seizures could be involved - and there’s no known way to prevent it.

Bella’s parents, Sara and Jordan Durga, have done a lot of community service in her memory since, including raising money for a new outdoor play area at New Era Christian School, also called Bella’s Place, in September 2022. They’ve talked for years about organizing an event like the Unicorn Open, and decided this spring to jump into planning it, choosing the September date because it fell close to Bella’s birthday, which was Sept. 21.

The Unicorn Open’s name and bright colors referenced Bella’s love of unicorns, and the Mickey cutouts were in honor of one of her favorite char-

acters, Minnie Mouse.

“There are probably 10 of us in the family at this point that have some sort of unicorn tattoo,”

Jordan Durga said. “Her room was decorated with some unicorn stuff and some stuffed animals and bright colors.”

That same themewhich the Durgas also brought to Bella’s celebration of life - carried onto the course; Jordan said players were encouraged to dress in bright colors and decorate their carts, and the best in each of those departments received prizes. There were also prizes, donated by local businesses, that were bid on via a silent auction.

Jordan Durga said the Open raised roughly $25,000, much of which will be donated to the

Football results

Two long Eagle touchdown drives were the difference in the game. Kent City powered through the Hart defense for an 88-yard drive in the first quarter, and delivered a big blow to the Pirates by scoring on fourth down from the six-yard line on the final play of the first half.

The Eagles then received the second-half kickoff and appeared on the verge of a knockout blow when they made their way to the Hart 10-yard line to start the third quarter. However, the Pirate defense forced a fumble that Kyle Greiner recovered to give themselves new life.

Later in the third, Greiner got Hart on the board by getting loose for a 51-yard touchdown run, but a missed two-point conversion kept it a two-score game.

Kent City ran nearly seven minutes off the clock on the ensuing possession, leaving the Pirates precious little time to come back, but after a fourthdown stop, they managed to make their way to their own 43-yard line. However, a holding penalty followed by an interception sealed the game for the Eagles.

Greiner gained 135 yards for Hart on 17 carries,

Benona Shores Golf Course hosted the first Unicorn Open Sunday, Sept. 14, in honor of the late Bella Durga,

for

• Courtesy Photo

SUDC Foundation, a privately-funded nonprofit that supports families affected by the tragedies.

Another nonprofit that will benefit from the Unicorn Open is Canines for Change - dogs were another love of Bella’s - to donate therapy dogs to schools in the area. Jordan Durga said each dog costs $12,000 to purchase and train - training takes a year - and a private donor has matched donations dollar for dollar to pay half that amount. The first dog the Durgas were able to donate, which was named Rosie after the name Bella gave to her favorite stuffed animal, went to Grand Haven Christian School

continued from page 10

accounting for over half the Pirates’ offensive yardage. He also had a 54-yard kickoff return. Halen Boos was everywhere defensively, compiling 13 tackles and a fumble recovery of his own. Haegan Hansen recorded 12 takedowns.

Hesperia drops high-scoring game

Hesperia was able to get some offense going Friday night against North Muskegon, but the Norsemen put up too many points for the Panthers to overcome in a 54-21 loss.

The Panthers (1-3, 0-1 West Michigan Conference Rivers) again enjoyed some success through the air, as Tucker Bolles threw for 155 yards on 14of-22 passing. Bolles threw one touchdown to Eli Edens, who had 95 yards receiving on nine catches, and also ran in a one-yard score.

Dominic Rivera added 88 yards for Hesperia on the ground, including a touchdown run.

Defensively, Rivera had a team-best seven tackles and picked off a Norsemen pass. Ryan Fuentes and Weston Hasted had six takedowns apiece.

and now lives with a second-grade teacher there, Jordan said.

“She lives a working life in the morning and a dog’s life in the evening,” Jordan Durga said of Rosie. “The dogs provide therapeutic support for students who struggle emotionally. They sometimes bring (the dogs) in for reading and math, because studies show dramatic improvement for students who struggle with that when she’s there.”

While distribution of the money raised hasn’t

• Courtesy Photo

been finalized, Durga said he was looking at using $12,000 of it, plus the private donor’s matching funds, to purchase two more service dogs for Canines for Change and provide at least a $10,000 donation to the SUDC Foundation.

The Open generated a lot of positive feedback, Durga said, in addition to the money raised, and the family is already excited to bring it back next year.

County battle

continued from page 10

room for error.

“That mental game affects everything. It affects our serving. It affects our serve receive. It affects our hitting. It affects our defense. If we can master that, I think the skills will show up in a way that we haven’t seen yet. Right now we’re chasing our tails, reacting after the ball’s in play instead of trying to figure out how to get to the ball before.”

Redinger-Rottier added that she “wouldn’t count us out” and the team is working on game situations in practice in hopes of building the confidence necessary to step up against talented opponents.

“I do feel like it’s a good group of girls that really do want to put in the work, but we’re fighting an uphill battle,” Redinger-Rottier said. “We’re still hungry for it.”

Shelby Township Zoning Board of Appeals

The Shelby Township Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, at 4:00 p.m. to review a request from Ben Hughes for approval of a side yard variance request to place a 768 square foot garage 40 feet from the right and rear side property lines. The Shelby Township Zoning Ordinance requires a 50 foot side yard setback (Shelby Township Zoning Ordinance Section 5.03 (a)). The property address is 2117 W. Woodrow Rd., Shelby, MI 49455 (Parcel #64012-015-100-04). The meeting will be held at the Shelby Township Hall (204 N. Michigan Avenue, Shelby, MI 49455). The application is available for review at the Township Hall during business hours. Questions or statements regarding this review may be directed to the Zoning Board of Appeals via Sara Bizon, Zoning Administrator at the above address or e-mail sara.bizon@ shelbytownshipoceana.com.

Sara Bizon, Zoning Administrator Email: sara.bizon@shelbytownshipoceana.com

The Oceana Echo Community Contributor

who had a deep affection

the mythical creature.

The Durga family - mother Sara, father Jordan and son Nolan - have worked to raise funds for the SUDC Foundation and Canines for Change ever since the passing of daughter Bella in 2022.

Participants in the Sept. 14 Unicorn Open at Benona Shores Golf Course decked out their golf carts to add to the fun theme of the day. • Courtesy Photo

Reflections

Reflections of our community

White Lake Mirror White Lake Mirror

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County's water resources take center stage

"Currents of Change" program features Ravenna FFA presentation, panel discussion

County's water resources take center stage

"Currents of Change" program features Ravenna FFA presentation, panel discussion

By Claire Marshall White Lake Mirror Writer

WHITEHALL — White Lake Community Library, in collaboration with the Muskegon Area District and Hackley Libraries, hosted “Currents of Change" Wednesday, Sept. 17, the first program in the three-part “Shared Water” series, intended to foster community discussion surrounding the natural water resources cherished by Muskegon County.

The program opened with a presentation from Ravenna High School’s FFA “Stream Team” about their data-collection and water-monitoring project of Crockery Creek. The FFA’s wildlife biology class - represented at the presentation by Ravenna juniors Tucker Page and Taylor Sanders - is taught by agricultural science teacher Melanie Block and received guidance from Dr. Amanda Buday, associate professor at GVSU’s Annis Water Resources Institute.

The genesis of the Crockery Creek project came from a survey conducted by Dr. Buday among residents of the creek’s watershed meant to better understand the community’s interactions with the water and their areas of concerns.

As Buday explained, “One of the things I was hearing from people was that this was a really cherished local trout stream, but there was this sense

that nobody cared about it, that it had kind of fallen to the wayside, that it really wasn’t getting much attention.”

This led Buday to partner with Melanie Block and the Ravenna FFA program to lead a project in which the students would compile consistent data on the salinity, turbidity, flow rate, conductivity, temperature, pH, and micro-invertebrates at four individual testing spots on Crockery Creek, beginning in the 202223 school year.

“These students are particularly well-suited to doing the kind of work that’s needed to start building a local data source that community members can consult,” said Buday of her intention of involving Muskegon County area high schoolers.

Block discussed the challenges faced in their first year of testing, as well as the instruction given by Buday and GVSU graduate students.

Of the first year’s learning experience, Block said, “We did a couple of things differently that first year because we were kind of learning as we went, which is exactly what FFA does. FFA’s motto is ‘Learning by doing.’ So we got in the water and started learning how to do things.”

Following the first year of data collection, the FFA approached the community through the Muskegon County Conservation District and received feedback on what aspects of water quality to focus on. The project has also received support from the community in the form of sponsorships for equipment integral to ensuring quality monitoring of the water.

FFA students Page and Sanders took

Ravenna High School FFA "Stream Team" spoke about a data collection and water monitoring project it undertook at Crockery Creek during the Sept. 17 Currents of Change program at White Lake Community Library. Left to right are Ravenna science teacher Melanie Block, students Tucker Page and Taylor Sanders and Grand Valley State professor Dr. Amanda Buday. • Claire Marshall/Mirror

A Ravenna High School FFA "Stream Team" spoke about a data collection and water monitoring project it undertook at Crockery Creek during the Sept. 17 Currents of Change program at White Lake Community Library. Left to right are Ravenna science teacher Melanie Block, students Tucker Page and Taylor Sanders and Grand Valley State professor Dr. Amanda Buday. • Claire Marshall/Mirror

A Ravenna High School FFA "Stream Team" spoke about a data collection and water monitoring

turns discussing the processes of their field-work and sharing their findings with the audience. They also explained the benefits awarded to them through the participation in the dozen or so classes Ravenna’s FFA program offers, covering a variety of topics from ecology to animal raising to botany. These FFA program classes, in which 237 students are enrolled, give students a hands-on learning experience, award college science credits, and take them around and outside of the state of Michigan to compete in FFA events.

As Block explained, “It’s basically following our educational standards with a really cool project that matters to our community.”

Following Ravenna’s FFA presentation, the discussion of community and the interconnectivity of people and waterways continued through the Currents of Change panel. On the panel,

which was moderated by WLCL board member and local activist Norm Kittleson, were three experienced individuals whose life’s work revolved around water protection and management. Dr. Richard Rediske is a professor emeritus of GVSU’s Water Resources Institute and consultant, who spent many years helping to delist White Lake as an EPA area of concern. Erick Elgin works for Michigan State University Extension, particularly for the concerns of inland lakes and streams, focusing on the “intersection of ecology and people.” Jill Ryan is the executive director of Freshwater Future, an organization created to “help communities protect the Great Lakes across the whole Great Lakes region.” Freshwater Future works with about 2,000 communities across US

Currents of Change

continued on page 2

Council member criticizes pocket park costs

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

WHITEHALL — Whitehall city council member and mayoral candidate Tom Ziemer criticized what he views as excessive spending on the in-progress pocket park in downtown Whitehall during Tuesday's regular council meeting.

Council member criticizes pocket park costs

Ziemer said he'd received correspondence from city manager Dan Tavernier regarding the pocket park that day, which led to him airing his frustrations. The pocket park is slated to be in the alley between the Bell's Furniture storefront and CatchMark Technologies.

• Andy Roberts/Mirror YOUR LOCALLY OWNED AND OPERATED NONPROFIT

According to Ziemer, the cost of the pocket park, which was projected in the $160-180,000 range when it was first proposed, has ballooned to over $379,000, most of which is construction costs. He said a good deal of the additional cost has been due to the addition of a bathroom as part of the park. Part of the cost Ziemer outlined in his remarks was the bathroom kit, which cost $51,900 even though he feels it resembles an "outhouse."

"This kind of spending, in my opin-

• Andy Roberts/Mirror

ion, is absolutely shameful," Ziemer said, when the city is in need of road repairs and other things.

Ziemer further said that in previous correspondences with prior city manager Scott Huebler, the latter said the pocket park project was coming in under budget, but that Huebler had at a later point conceded he didn't know what that budget was.

Much of Ziemer's frustrations originate from the pocket park being funded by the Tax Increment Finance Authority, of which most of the council, includ-

ing Ziemer, has no part.

Mayor Steven Salter, who is running against Ziemer for mayor, did not directly address his complaints, but did share his recent experience at a Michigan Municipal League conference he attended in Grand Rapids, which included discussions of "place making," referring to the home being the first place, a job being the second, and public gathering spaces the third. He added that he feels the pocket park is a good example of a public gathering place that will do good

for the city.

In city business, the council unanimously approved the $50,002 purchase of a snowblower from Spartan Distributors after tabling the issue at the previous meeting. Tavernier said at the time that he wanted to take a closer look at the machine before the council approved the purchase and said Tuesday that after checking other possibilities,

City council

City council continued on page 2

continued on page 2

City council continued on page 2

project it undertook at Crockery Creek during the Sept. 17 Currents of Change program at White Lake Community Library. Left to right are Ravenna science teacher Melanie Block, students Tucker Page and Taylor Sanders and Grand Valley State professor Dr. Amanda Buday. • Claire Marshall/Mirror

Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

The Whitehall pocket park is beginning to take shape, as seen in this Wednesday photo, but it drew criticism from city council member Tom Ziemer at Tuesday's meeting regarding what he feels is its excessive cost. • Andy Roberts/Mirror

The Whitehall pocket park bathroom has drawn attention from city residents and council members due to its cost.

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

The Whitehall pocket park bathroom has drawn attention from city residents and council members due to its cost.

City council

this model was the best choice.

There was some discussion about the 48-inch width of the snowblower being a potential issue on city sidewalks, but Department of Public Works foreman Don Bond said the majority of them are five feet wide, so the blower will have plenty of space to operate. City records indicate the previous snowblower saw over 170 hours of use last winter.

"It's the proper tool for the job," Bond said.

The council also unanimously approved a $56,347 bid from UIS SCADA, a firm in Dexter, to provide an electrical monitoring system for city water. The system will determine how much water needs to be pumped to keep the water towers full while also meeting city demand. Council member Jeff Holmstrom expressed surprise at how wide the gap was between the cheapest and most expensive bids; multiple bids were nearly $100,000 higher than the UIS SCADA bid.

Police chief Brandon Mahoney shared a summary of the 522 police reports filed during the city's summer

Muskegon County received notification of a bird die-off involving at least a dozen wild birds at the Muskegon County Resource and Recovery Center. Early information suggests the deaths may be caused by Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI). Confirmatory laboratory results are expected within the next two weeks.

As a precaution, Public Health – Muskegon County has issued a public health advisory for the Resource and Recovery Center recreation areas. While the risk of HPAI spreading to humans is considered low, residents and visitors should avoid contact with sick or dead birds and practice caution in the area.

Since 2022, Michigan has seen die-offs in wild birds and mammals linked to HPAI. The disease is now considered widespread and endemic in Michigan and North America, with waterfowl, raptors, scavengers, gulls, and terns most affected. With fall bird migration underway, continued cases of HPAI in wild birds are expected.

The risk of HPAI infection in people is low but possible, especially with direct contact with infected birds or contaminated material. Hunters and others who handle wild birds should take precautions.

Wild birds can carry

continued from page 1

season, which he said he and Tavernier agreed would be a good idea. The 522 reports, he said, were slightly higher than any of the previous three summers. The council, too, expressed approval of seeing a rundown of police department activities and were supportive of the idea that such a report could be presented quarterly. Mahoney said if the reports were helpful to the city, he would be glad to continue providing them.

During the meeting, Holmstrom reminded city residents that leaf pickup will begin Oct. 27. He added that many hunters have applied for deer management area hunting permits since the DMAs were approved at the previous council meeting.

Another Oct. 27 event, reminded council member Tanya Cabala, is the White Lake Senior Center dinner, an event paid for by the senior millage. Seniors will receive a free meal in an event designed to build community and companionship for area seniors. According to fellow council member Debi Hillebrand, the millage specified seniors as those 60 years of age and above.

HPAI without looking sick. Do not handle or harvest birds that are obviously ill or dead. Report die-offs of six or more waterfowl, gulls, or shorebirds through the DNR Eyes in the Field tool (www.mi.gov/eyesinthefield) or your local DNR office.

Anyone who has had contact with sick or dead birds at the Resource and Recovery Center should watch for symptoms such as fever, sore throat, cough, shortness of breath, runny nose, eye irritation, or muscle aches for 10 days after exposure.

Precautions for Waterfowl Hunters

• Cook all meat to 165°F.

• Process birds in the field; bury remains onsite or double-bag for disposal in household trash. -more-

• Wear disposable gloves when handling birds; wash hands well afterward. • Avoid touching your face while handling wild birds.

• Clean and disinfect knives, equipment, and surfaces after use.

• Do not eat, drink, or smoke while cleaning birds.

The Resource and Recovery Center recreation area remains open, but visitors should exercise caution and follow these recommendations until further notice.

Currents of Change

and Canada to provide assistance for funding, non-profit consultation, policy-making, and lake rehabilitation and restoration projects, such as those for Muskegon and White Lakes.

Kittleson provided a list of questions for the panel to answer, which primarily focused on the effects humanity can have on waterways and what can be done to make compromises between community development and ecological restoration and preservation.

The panel discussed the importance of water in human development, especially as it pertains to Michigan’s history, with Ryan pointing out how the Great Lakes region, spanning the U.S. and Canada “have the third largest economy in the world.”

“[It’s because of the water] we were able to develop so much industry here,” Ryan said, ranging from commerce, shipping, manufacturing and agriculture. “The water both shapes us and we shape water.”

Elgin also discussed Michigan’s importance in the scope of water as a recreational activity, the evolution of small seasonal communities to large municipalities, and the effects these developments have on the environment.

“[Before the Clean Water Act] we were manipulating our shorelines considerably for residential development,” Elgin said.

“We have tremendously altered our landscape,” agreed Dr. Rediske, particularly of the disruption of various aspects of animal and hydrological cycles, delicate systems in their own

rights.

The panel was also open to questions from the audience, many of which were focused on local examples of development of overtaking and restoration of waterways - such as at Tannery Bay, hydroelectric dams, and the remediation of White Lake wetlands’ old celery fields - of which the panel and other audience members opened dialogue of what policies are in place and what procedures can be taken to minimize the effect on local ecosystems.

Most of all, the audience wanted to know one thing: “What can we, as community members, do to help?”

Across the board, the panelists recommended involvement on the local level through lake associations, conservation districts, and local government. Rediske, who has participated in planning commissions throughout the years, advocated for just that - ““If you’re interested in conservation, be on the planning commission. That’s a great way to get people to think about conservation before development comes in… Our local government

depends on informed citizens and citizen participation.”

Elgin spoke of the "cumulative effects” of individuals, and the power we all have in making choices that are less intrusive to the environment. Even something as simple as trimming a tree instead of removing it altogether or planting native flora to prevent erosion, can make a great impact.

“Being engaged is so critically important,” said Ryan, who urged community members to stay involved and informed.

The hope is that the government will work to balance the interests of industry and development with the concerns of residents and local advocacy groups, and that concerned community members will work to enforce that balance.

“We’re all responsible for this place we live, [and] we live in this really special place," Ryan said. "We’re stewards of this place and stewards of this water. So I just encourage you to keep your interest up and do what you think is protective for your area.”

Saturday, Sept. 27

Distracted performs @ Pub One Eleven, 8 p.m.

The Murphy's Law Band performs @ Red Rooster Tavern, 8 p.m.

Sunday, Sept. 28

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

Monday, Sept. 29

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

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

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

Tuesday, Sept. 30

Baby Time @ White Lake Community Library, 9:30 a.m. Stories, songs

Community Calendar

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, Oct. 1

Depot to Depot fall color tour begins @ White Lake Chamber & Visitor's Bureau. See page 7 for more information.

Vote for your favorite short films at the Manhattan Film Festival screening @ White Lake Community Library, 1 p.m. With films from around the world and genres ranging from comedy to drama to animation, there’s something for everyone to en-

joy.

Youth Open Studio @ ACWL-Nuveen Center, 3-5 p.m. Bring in projects you’re working on or start something new with help from staff.

White Lake Association annual meeting @ White Lake Community Library, 5 p.m. Public is welcome.

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

Thursday, Oct. 2

Join the Muskegon Conservation District for a stewardship day @ Covell Park, 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.

Adult Open Studio @ ACWL-Nuveen Center, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Bring studio materials from home or ex-

plore available supplies in the classroom.

1-2-3 Play with Me @ White Lake Community Library, 5 p.m. Designed for caregivers and children, the program includes an early childhood specialist to answer parenting questions. Registration required @ wlclib. org.

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

Friday, Oct. 3

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 2)

By Tom Eitniear Volunteer Contributor

Part 1 of this story ran in the Sept. 19 White Lake Mirror.

The success of the first fair showed all participants and organizers the effort required to make such an endeavor functional. Some members of the White Lake Agricultural and Industrial Society (WLAIS) embraced the challenge while others decided that their time was better spent on other activities. During 1879 the board president, Albert Mears, was not present for several WLAIS board meetings, even for the Aug. 19 meeting, which he specifically called. Absence of committee members and executive positions highlighted the difficulty found in maintaining commitment from members.

Difficulties were overcome and the second annual fair of the WLAIS was held Oct. 7-10, 1879. The total earnings from the fair amounted to $268.60, with expenditures/premiums amounting to $243.97, leaving net earnings at $24.63. The carryover amount of $211.01 from 1878 added to the 1879 earnings left an operating balance of $235.64 for the Society in 1880.

It is possible that some members could foresee that the fair would not be able to continue with such meager profits, and there were probably some rumblings of discontent from participants from Montague that the activities were continuing to be held in Whitehall. Efforts were still underway by the WLAIS to acquire suitable property to serve as the fair-

grounds, but success had not been achieved.

The WLAIS engaged in the required actions during 1880 to host the third (and final) annual fair Oct. 11-14. It was during this year that a group of individuals created the White Lake and West Oceana Agricultural Society (WLWOAS), possibly as a result of their dissatisfaction with WLAIS. Horse racing was an important and profitable part of a fair and the WLAIS had been unable to acquire property that would allow that activity. Charles Cook had previously offered appropriate property that would allow horse racing, but it is probable that the businessmen of Whitehall did not want the fairgrounds to be near Montague.

The WLWOAS had a board of directors composed of the following individuals all residing in Montague: Samuel H. Lasley (President), William J. Mason (Treasurer), George E. Dowling (Secretary), Charles H. Cook, and Hosea D. Johnson. The WLWOAS utilized the 40-acre property developed by Charles Cook to host their first annual fair in 1881.

Charles Cook had invested considerable resources to develop the fairgrounds in an effort to lure the fair from Whitehall to Montague and had been successful. Mysteriously, in 1882 he stopped paying taxes on the fairground property and Muskegon County foreclosed. George Dowling acquired the property in a tax sale Oct. 6, 1885. During this three-year span resources were expended, improvements made, and fairs held even though ownership of the property was not clear. George Dowling provided a quit claim

deed to the WLWOAS March 31, 1886, for one dollar to clarify ownership of the fairground property. The annual fairs held by the WLWOAS were profitable and allowed for continued investment into the property. A racing track was constructed, and A. R. Rogers was hired to acquire clay and incorporate it into the track. Mr. Rogers owned a farm which had an ample supply of clay, and in January 1884 used dynamite to loosen it from its bed. The clay was then transported to the racetrack and incorporated into the surface. Railings and a 1,000-seat grandstand with an asbestos roof were completed in 1885 to further provide a quality racetrack.

You're invited to the library's 25th anniversary!

By Virginia DeMumbrum Volunteer Contributor

The library is celebrating its 25th anniversary this fall, and you’re invited to help us mark the occasion! Please plan to join us at the library Friday, Oct. 17, from 6-8 p.m. for delicious refreshments by The Gnarly Heifer, tours of the library, fun swag, and a few surprises. There will be a brief program at 7 p.m. All are welcome as we look back on our first 25 years and look ahead to another 25 years of serving the community.

sumably the entire home, was destroyed in the Big Fire in September 1890, and the library was reopened in Mr. Redfern’s new home on Colby Street. It continued to operate in various homes and with various librarians until 1935.

In 1935, the Works Progress Administration came on the scene, and the library began to be operated with limited government support. At this time the library was being operated by Julia Milnes in a house on Colby Street. The state soon required that the library be moved from a private residence to a public building, and by 1940 the library was located above the town hall/ fire barn in downtown Whitehall, and Miss Lavina Landberg was its paid librarian.

for Lavina and for the library!

FUN FACT: The WPA’s Library Extension program funded and built about 200 new libraries, 3,400 new reading rooms, and 5,800 traveling libraries. These traveling libraries reached remote communities in novel ways, including by a houseboat on the Yazoo River and by horseback in remote mountain areas of Kentucky. Knit & Crochet Club Forming

Do you like to knit or crochet—or want to learn? Come to our very first club gathering at the library Monday, Oct. 6, at 5:30 p.m.

How We Got Here - Part 1 Whitehall’s history with libraries dates back to the 1880s, when Nettie White operated a library in the home of her uncle, C.W. Redfern, on North Mears Avenue. The library, and pre-

Not long after, the state issued a new requirement that it would only pay the librarian’s salary if she was a certified librarian, and Lavina was not. This forced the village council to choose between keeping their chosen librarian or keeping WPA support. Tune in next week to find out what happened next

Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just picking up your first hook or needles, this casual meet-up is the perfect place to connect with fellow yarn enthusiasts, share ideas, and help shape a new community group. We'll spend this first meeting deciding on a time and day to meet and the purpose of the group, whether that’s donating handmade items to local charities, learning new skills together, working on individual projects in good company, or something else entirely.

If you’re interested in participating in the group but are not able to attend this first meeting or have questions, please email dzoellmer@wlclib. org. If you have knitting needles, crochet hooks, or yarn in good condition you might be willing to donate to help this group get started, feel free to drop them by the library anytime during open hours.

Registration for this first gathering is appreciated at wlclib.org/calendar. Come create something beautiful— with yarn and with community!

DeMumbrum

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

• Courtesy Photo

Lake Mirror Lake Mirror

NONPROFIT NEWS SOURCE

SPORTS SPORTS

Whitehall retains Bell in defensive slugfest

Victory gives Tony Sigmon all-time record for Whitehall coaching wins with 86

By Andy

MONTAGUE — Both Whitehall and Montague had big offensive days in week three victories, so naturally their week four rivalry battle turned into a defensive slugfest.

On a night in which no points were scored in the second half, the Vikings came up with two late interceptions to hang on for a 13-6 win and retain the rivalry trophy, the Bell, for a fifth straight season.

"We just wanted to execute everything we could, and we didn't expect them to hang with us, but they played a great game," Whitehall's Hunter Osborne, who had the game-sealing interception in the final minute, said. "They had a lot of energy, and they just stuck with it, and props to them. We finished it and got out of here."

Osborne was responsible for the final six points of the game, too, going in for a one-yard touchdown several plays after he got his team into scoring range by catching a short pass from Cole Essebaggers and making a series of impressive moves to fight through the Wildcat defense for a 29-yard gain. Corde Anderson had a 19-yard catch later in the drive as well.

At that point it was late in the second quarter, and it seemed likely both

•

teams' offenses would continue to put up points, but instead the second half saw a series of defensive stops. The first three possessions of the half were punts, and by the time the fourth one ended, Montague had to go for it on fourth down in Whitehall territory because it was running out of time. Quarterback Eli Petersen was sacked on the play.

It turned out that the Wildcats (1-3, 1-2 West Michigan Conference Lakes) got two more chances thanks to strong defense and a couple of key penalties on Whitehall, but both of those ended in interceptions - one by Colten Kyser on a third-and-1 pass that Kyser snared almost before he saw it, and the second by Osborne on fourth down.

"This group is very resilient and they were able to overcome, and they were able to overcome adversity and overcome the stakes," Whitehall coach Tony

Sigmon said. "Maybe that's the story tonight. And our defense. Our defense played fantastic."

Essebaggers and Hunter Peterson led the Viking defense with eight tackles each, and Anderson had six, two of them for a loss, and a fumble recovery.

Montague managed 168 total yards on offense (in fact, nine more than Whitehall had). Nearly half of them came on a beautiful throw from Petersen to Cole Moss that the latter caught in stride and took to pay dirt for a 68-yard

score that got the 'Cats on the board early in the second quarter.

Montague didn't do much throwing the rest of the game until circumstances forced its hand. Coach Phil Koops said he felt his team optimized its chances at victory if it could keep Whitehall's explosive offense off the field.

"We thought if we could snap the ball 55-plus times on offense, we'd have

Montague returns to the top at GMAA

R-P's McCollum shoots a one-under 71 to earn medalist honors

By Andy Roberts

MUSKEGON — Montague doesn't need to tell you it's got more depth of talent than any golf team in Muskegon County, because the Wildcats proved it Wednesday with a dominating win in the GMAA tournament at Chase Hammond Golf Club. The win marked the Wildcats' fourth GMAA title in six seasons.

It wasn't just that Montague won easily, though it did, by posting a team score of 355, 27 shots over two-time defending champ Reeths-Puffer; Whitehall was a close third, four shots behind the Rockets. It was that the Wildcats' top scorer was their No. 5 seed player, Molly Mulder, who delivered an outstanding performance with an 82 - 10 strokes better than her previous personal best score. It was good for third place individually.

"No one else in the county can go five deep like we can right now, and today we got to show that off," Montague coach Phil Kerr said.

• Andy Roberts/Mirror

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Montague's scoring. Addi Smith shot a 96, a good enough score that even had Mulder not played the terrific round she did, the Wildcats would've still won the GMAA comfortably.

The 'Cats had three top-10 finishers, with Cadence Fox close behind Mulder, shooting an 86 to finish fourth. She too made a birdie. Brynlee Kessler finished in a tie for ninth with a 93. Marguerite O'Connell narrowly missed a personal best, posting a 94 to close out

Mulder's terrific effort came about because of a strategic change by the Wildcats. Kerr said Mulder hits the ball farthest of anyone on the team, but on the short and tight Chase Hammond course, that had the potential to wreak havoc, so she didn't use her driver. The junior responded with some precision hitting and great putting, and she made two birdies during her round.

"To perform like that in a championship, it says a lot about these girls," Kerr said. "God keeps blessing me with talented groups, and this one is pretty special...Incredible team effort today."

The Wildcats weren't the only team to take a highlight from the day, however. R-P's Sophia McCollum earned

medalist honors with a spectacular performance, shooting a one-under par 71 to finish 10 strokes ahead of everybody else in the field. McCollum drained five birdies - including on three of her final four holes - and was only over par on three holes the entire round. Coach Matt Pallett said McCollum nearly aced the par-3 17th hole before tapping in an easy birdie putt.

Montague's Cole Moss (0) attempts to pull in a pass late in Friday's rivalry matchup with Whitehall. The Vikings' Hunter Osborne, though, reaches in to break up the throw. Osborne later had the game-sealing interception in a 13-6 win.

• Andy Roberts/Mirror

White Lake Mirror Editor

Montague's Cadence Fox kicks up some debris as she chips out of trouble during Tuesday's GMAA tournament at Chase Hammond Golf Club. Fox earned her third career top-10 GMAA finish and helped her team earn the event championship.

Andy Roberts/Mirror

Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

Montague's Cole Moss has his jersey stretched by a grab from Whitehall's Jamison Jeffery during Friday's rivalry game at Montague. The Vikings won, 13-6.

Andy Roberts/Mirror

Whitehall beats 'Cats continued on page 5

Reeths-Puffer's Sophia McCollum hits an approach shot during Tuesday's GMAA tournament at Chase Hammond Golf Club. McCollum shot a terrific one-under par 71 to claim medalist honors as her team finished second behind Montague.

Turnovers dog Rockets in loss to Shores

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

Turnover problems plagued Reeths-Puffer Friday night as the Rockets took a 48-7 defeat to rival Mona Shores in O-K Green Conference action.

Rockets' coach Cody Kater said his team (1-3, 0-1 O-K Green) had four giveaways, including an interception returned for a touchdown, leading to

the team spending much of the game defending its side of the field. Shores scored 23 second-quarter points to take a 29-0 halftime lead.

"Just critical errors at times," Kater said. "We forgot how to fall back to some of our fundamentals. They continued to have long runs, and offensively we couldn't generate any push."

Braylon Swain passed for 100 yards, 54 of them on a third-quarter touch-

down pass to Mason Darke that accounted for R-P's points. Cal Millis had seven tackles.

Kater said the performance was a step back from last year's game against Shores, which despite ending 40-0, was a fairly close battle into the third quarter.

"We had some things happen where we didn't respond as well as we could have as far as playing the game," Kater

said. "Success is a terrible teacher, and we've got to be able to fail...I think the lights were a little too bright and our focus was on external things. We've got to find ways to improve throughout the week. That's on the coaching staff, and it starts with me."

The Rockets will have a chance to bounce back Friday against Union, a matchup R-P has won the past three seasons.

Whitehall roars past Oakridge

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

Whitehall dominated Oakridge Wednesday night in a West Michigan Conference matchup, 6-0.

The Vikings (7-4-1, 6-1-1 WMC) put six different players into the scorebook, including Tommy Leeke, who had a goal and an assist. Ian Hinze also had a goal and an assist, and Basil Savage, Carter Burrous,

Whitehall beats 'Cats

a good chance to win the game and limit their good athletes," Koops said. "It almost worked."

Struggles with penalties and communication on offense were issues for Montague, which had to use all three of their second-half timeouts earlier than it would've preferred because of issues getting out of the huddle and lining up correctly. There were also issues with pre-snap penalties.

One bad early miss that the 'Cats paid for was a punt snap over Petersen's head on the team's second possession, forcing him to fall on the ball at his team's own 12yard line. The 'Cats fumbled the ball away inside its own 10-yard line on its first drive, but were able to come up with a fourth-down stop inside its own 5.

There would be no reprieve the second time around, as Liam Leeke opened the scoring with an impressive 12-yard run, breaking a few tackles along the way.

The Wildcat defense, though, continued its season-long trend of strong play. Holding a Viking squad that dropped 35 points on Zeeland West a week prior to 13 - seven of which coming due to a short field - is no mean feat. Despite the offensive struggles, their effort has impressed Koops.

"I want to compliment our kids on how hard they played," Koops said. "We certainly made our share of mistakes, but we played really hard. This thing is a growing process. If I could take something out of my body and give it to them and say, 'This will get us over the hump; it will make us better faster,' I'd do it, but it doesn't work that way...We've played one-possession games in our three losses, to good teams. We haven't quit on each other."

For Whitehall (3-1, 2-0 WMC Lakes), there's much to clean up. In addition to some struggles on offense of its own, some key penalties helped extend Wildcat drives or submarine their own. Whether that was some sort of emotional letdown after the Zeeland East win or just a one-off was for the team to decide, but it gives the coaches

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continued from page 4

something to concentrate on next week.

"We've got to be better," Sigmon said. "If we're going to play championship football, we can't do those types of things. That's just a matter of fact, so we've got to be better at it. We've got to study the film. We've got to see where the deficiencies are and go from there."

The game may have been somewhat sloppy by Viking standards, but it looked pretty nice on the football athletic director Christian Subdon presented to Sigmon after the game. The 13th-year head man became Whitehall's all-time leader in head coach victories with the win, his 86th.

"Honestly, my first year here, I thought we were going to be the greatest thing in the world and we were going to win everything the first year because we were going to be revolutionary," Sigmon said. "I think that bought us a 1-8 season. That's when I really realized we needed a lot of help from a lot of people. The following year, we won nine games because so many people were willing to help put their name in our program.

"It's kind of a surreal moment because I get this nice football, but behind us is what it's all about," he added, gesturing to the player celebration going on some 25 feet to his left.

Evan

Alex

and Stefan

Sports in Brief

Soccer

Grant 4 Montague 1

Statistics from the Wildcats' defeat were not reported.

Reeths-Puffer 2 Jenison 1 Carson McCollum scored both goals for the Rockets, who broke out of an offensive drought in the win. Owen Ritsema assisted both goals.

Reeths-Puffer 5 Northview 0

R-P's offense took off in the win, with 5 different players scoring goals and 5 more recording an assist. It was R-P's 2nd-most goals this season.

Oakridge 6 Montague 5

The Wildcats lost a high-scoring game in which the score was tied at 1, 2, 3 and 5. Individual statistics were not available.

W.M. Christian 1 Whitehall 0 Though the Vikings didn't score, keeper Alex Wincxewski made 13 saves in an impressive performance in goal.

Volleyball

Reeths-Puffer 3 Muskegon 0

The Rockets had no trouble with Muskegon, despite coach Justin Birr saying they didn't play their cleanest match. Kate Tindall had 24 assists for R-P and had 9 digs. Abby Machinski led the offense with 8 kills.

Montague 3-1-1 at Lakeview Invite

The Wildcats won the Silver bracket and defeated Muskegon Catholic, Montaballa and Mason Co. Central. They tied Lakeview and fell to Saranac. Emalee McGee led the way with 63 assists, 26 kllls and 10 aces.

Reeths-Puffer 3-1, Whitehall 2-2 at Whitehall Invite

The Rockets beat Whitehall in 3 games as part of the event, but the Vikes earned their first wins of the season by beating Shelby and West Michigan Aviation. R-P also beat WMA. Both teams lost to Newaygo. Kate Tindall paced the Rockets with 71 assists, Carlee Bowen had 28 digs and Mairyn Peterson had 21 kills. For Whitehall, Delaney Kramer had 17 kills, and Clare Westerlund had 8 blocks.

Montague 3 Orchard View 0

Gentry Knop led Montague with 8 aces at the service line and recorded a team-best 14 digs. Reagan Cederquist had 15 kills.

Whitehall 3 Holton 0

Whitehall recorded its first sweep of the season, hitting .200 as a team. The Vikes had 15 aces, with Peyton Schultz' 4 leading the way.

Golf

Reeths-Puffer 3rd at home invite, Montague 7th

R-P had its season-best 18-hole score, a 371, and Montague shot a 395. Sophia McCollum was medalist for the Rockets with a 78, and Olivia Ambler had a career-best 86. Cadence Fox led Montague with an 87.

Cross Country

Reeths-Puffer girls 5th at Cougar Falcon Invite

Jersi Bilek paced the Rockets with a 9th-place finish and time of 19:42.1, just shy of a season best. R-P's boys split into different races. Their best time came from Landon Learn (19:11.2), 7th in the freshmen race.

Reeths-Puffer 5th at G.R. South Christian

Jersi Bilek led the Rocket girls with a 9th-place individual finish (20:20.2). Dylan Sturr paced the boys in 46th (19:19.9).

Tennis

G.R. Catholic Central 5 Whitehall 3

The Vikings' top two doubles pairs, Evan Thomas/Ian Sampson and Remington Whelpley/Adam Sikkenga, each won matches. Wyatt Burger also won a match at No. 3 singles.

Whitehall at Allegan Invite

Evan Schuitema and Wyatt Burger went 2-1 for the Vikings at No. 2 and No. 3 singles respectively. Doubles pairs Ian Sampson/Evan Thomas, Remington Whelpley/Adam Sikkenga and Lukas McKee/Jonathan Roberge also went 2-1 in their matches.

Reeths-Puffer 0-2 at T.C. Central Quad

The Rockets dropped 6-2 decisions to Glen Lake and to Traverse City Central. Top two singles players Ethan Frang and Cory Judd each went 2-0 and won both their matches in straight sets.

Whitehall's Corde Anderson seizes Montague's Eli Petersen for a takedown in the backfield early in Friday's game at Montague. Helped by Anderson's 7 tackles - 2 of them for a loss - the Viking defense starred in a 13-6 win.

• Andy Roberts/Mirror

Ludington 8 Whitehall 0

The Orioles overwhelmed Whitehall with 8 straight-set wins. Remington Whelpley/Adam Sikkenga had the best showing, dropping a close match to Sam Reisterer/Hudson Borema by a 7-5, 6-4 margin.

Reeths-Puffer 8 Muskegon 0

The Rockets rolled by mercy rule. Carson McCollum and Kohen Beck each had 2 goals, and Owen Ritsema and Blake Kiel each posted a goal and 2 assists in the win.

Reeths-Puffer 3rd at Caledonia jamboree Sophia McCollum delivered another great performance, shooting a twounder par 33, to lead the team to its best jamboree score of the year. She had 2 birdies during the round. Olivia Ambler added

Whitehall's Corde Anderson runs past Montague's Caleb Lohman on a 19-yard reception during Friday's game at Montague. The Vikings scored a touchdown on the second-quarter drive, the final score of the game in a 13-6 win.

Andy Roberts/Mirror

Jud

Haas got on the board as well.

Winczewski and

Ethan Sylvester combined on the shutout in goal.

Whitehall's Javi LeBlanc collides with an Oakridge foe while going for the ball during Wednesday's game.

• Christopher Verhulst/Contributed Photo

Wildcat offense sputters in loss to Fremont

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

MONTAGUE — Montague struggled to get anything going against a Fremont team bent on revenge Wednesday night, and the Packers came away with an 8-0 win.

The win was a measure of vengeance for the returning Fremont players who fell to Montague in last season's district final on the same field. The Packers are also tied atop the West Michigan Conference with North Muskegon, both with 7-0-1 records.

"Fremont is great this year," Montague coach Brandon Mahoney said. "They're strong with good passing. You can hear them out there talking, loud communication. All the things that they will need going forward to battle in their district and hopefully win a district title. I wish them the best. I hope Steve (Vissia, Fremont's coach) and his crew get one this year, and I'm thankful it's not in our district."

The Wildcats (2-12-1, 1-6-1 WMC), conversely, have struggled to build the same kind of on-field chemistry the 2024 team had when it was loaded with senior veterans who had played together for many years. Some of that, Mahoney said, has been seen with less intense practices this season than those groups put together.

"In the beginning of the season, we don't mind having a little slower touches stepping to the ball, but now, we're at the end of the season," Mahoney said. "It's got to be game day speed every practice. If you're playing at half-speed, these guys are going to just run through you and take the ball and they're going to win it. That's what our squad did last year."

Fremont has that chemistry, and it was evident with some of the terrific passing it displayed in the offensive third of the field and the success it had on set plays. Many different Fremont players recorded scores.

Bad luck struck Montague on Fremont's first goal

Montague's Michael Jones tries to beat Fremont's Adam Kalika to the ball during Wednesday's game at Montague. The Wildcats fell, 8-0. • Andy Roberts/Mirror

just under 10 minutes into the game, when the Packers' Cam Witteveen got a soft touch of the ball off a corner kick and it snuck in between a few different Wildcats for the goal. That seemed to open the floodgates as Fremont poured in five more goals before halftime.

The Packers went ahead 7-0 just a few minutes after halftime, though to Montague's credit, it tightened up somewhat after that and didn't allow the mercy rule-clinching goal until 26 minutes later. The Wildcats also managed to create a couple of scoring chances in that span.

Mahoney said some players on the team were going to be given a day off Thursday due to the physical grind this season has been; there have been plenty of struggles with injury and illness along the way. At the same time, though, he was pleased to see Michael Jones, one of the team captains, encourage any player that wanted to get some work in to meet with assistant coaches for a practice Thursday afternoon.

It was an example, Mahoney said, of the kind of vocal leadership that hasn't come as naturally to Jones and fellow captain Jonah Henderson as it did to previous Montague leaders.

Whitehall's Riley Shafer takes a look at the lay of the land as she places a ball marker on the putting green during Tuesday's GMAA tournament at Chase Hammond Golf Club. Shafer led the Vikings to a third-place finish. • Andy Roberts/Mirror

GMAA golf

“Sophia is fun to watch," Pallett said. "She is playing some really great golf. What Sophia has done to finish off the last two tournaments has been quite remarkable. If you are a golf fan and did not get to see it, you missed out on some spectacular golf.”

Olivia Ambler also delivered a solid round for the Rockets, shooting a 92 to finish sixth. She recorded a birdie during her round and rebounded solidly from a tough start; she was 8 over par after three holes and managed to play 12 over par over the last 15.

“I am happy for Olivia," Pallett said. "Coming off a career-best round on Friday and then starting the way she did is not easy. She battled all day to earn that medal.”

Ella Voorhies and Ava Gibbs also got in the scoring column for the Rockets, shooting a 101 and 118 respectively.

Whitehall also had a pair of top-10 finishers. Riley Shafer paced the Vikings with a score of 87, coming in fifth, and Kelsie McClure's 93 was good for a ninth-place tie. McClure got off to a great start in her round, scoring birdie on her second hole and getting through

"The captains that we have this year are two of the nicest guys...They're also two of the less vocal guys," Mahoney said. "I did hear MJ tonight a lot more than I've heard him this season on that back line. He's finding his voice, and I just hope it's not too late. This is what he needs to do."

The season has been frustrating for some of this year's veteran players, who are used to Wildcat teams that are very competitive with even top-level opponents. It's an understandable frustration, Mahoney said, but he hopes his players are able to channel it into a postseason run

"We're two weeks away from districts," Mahoney said. "We've beaten a few teams, so we're probably not going to be at the bottom of the bracket, but we're certainly not going to be (in the position) we were last year. We'll see how it all plays out. It's tough for the boys to stay positive when you can't get a win. We were really positive after (beating) Shelby (in August). We got that win, we felt like we controlled it. We felt like we figured out some of the things and then the next couple matches, we stumbled again."

Whitehall getting set for homecoming celebrations

continued from page 4

Montague's Addi Smith tees off during Tuesday's GMAA tournament. The Wildcats won the championship, their 4th in 6 seasons. • Andy Roberts/Mirror

the first five at only 2 over par.

"There were some chances or opportunities that we let slip away," Whitehall coach Bill Borgman said. "We did have some really good quality holes and front nine scores being played, but couldn’t quite hold it together for the entire round. I think (the whole team) learned something from this experience and had an opportunity to play with the top teams in the local area, which is very valuable."

Also for Whitehall, Morgan Garcia shot a 99, and Avarie Bentz carded a 107.

• Andy Roberts/Mirror

Dress-up days, board game theme set; dance will take place Oct. 4

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

Whitehall High School is gearing up for its annual homecoming celebration, which will last all next week leading up to Friday's football game and Saturday's dance.

The 2025 homecoming theme is board games, and each class will build floats that fit the theme to be part of the homecoming parade, which begins at 5:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 3 at the Viking Athletic Center and also ends at the VAC.

The school will also host a pep assembly at the end of the school day Friday. The homecoming king and queen will be crowned at halftime of the football game against Oakridge, and the

royalty, as well as all Whitehall students, will celebrate at the homecoming dance Saturday, Oct. 4 from 8-11 p.m. at the high school.

A week of dress-up days will be part of the celebration as well. Monday will be Anything but a Backpack day, encouraging students to find creative alternative ways to transport their books around the school during that day. Tuesday will see students pair up to dress up as dynamic duos, and Wednesday will have dueling "Country Western vs. Country Club" themes with students aiming to dress in ways that fit one of the two categories.

The final two dress-up days will be Thursday's board game theme day and Friday's Viking dress-up day, with each class being assigned a school color. Freshmen have been assigned to wear red, sophomores white and juniors black, with seniors given all three to accessorize as desired.

Whitehall homecoming court members, which are seniors unless listed, include, left to right, front row, Maddy Betz (sophomore), Janie Fagan, Drew Buckner, Kate Beda, Lorelai Page, Emily VanDam, Aaliyah Jamison (junior) and Aria Tindall (freshman); second row, Cooper Kujawski (sophomore), Caden Bowyer, Corde Anderson, Justin Jensen, Blake Dennis, William Burger, Liam Leeke (junior) and Raymond Hesse (freshman).

Montague's Jonah Henderson and Fremont's Adam Kalika each keep an eye on the ball during Wednesday's WMC game at Montague. The Wildcats took an 8-0 defeat to the conference-leading Packers. • Andy Roberts/Mirror

Fruitland Twp. receives clean annual audit

Board looking for potential funding sources for road work projects, ADA pathways at Nestrom Park

By Claire Marshall White Lake Mirror Writer

The Sept. 15 regular meeting of the Fruitland Township board saw a presentation from Eric Van Dop of Brickley DeLong regarding the township’s annual audit. As with other audits in the past, the township received an “unmodified opinion,” which Van Dop explained is, essentially, the best grade the township could get. As Van Dop went on to explain, the township did "a whole lot of work this year, [they] were able to do a lot of improvements around the township, and [are] still able to put a few bucks in the bank.”

That does not mean there is no room for improvement. Included with each audit is a recommendation

letter, which Van Dop summarized. These recommendation items include improving end-of-year closing procedures, continuing to “segregate internal control procedures,” timely bank reconciliations, and timely distribution of property taxes - though Van Dop attributes the few mistakes to many of the Fruitland Township board members being new to their positions and getting their feet under them.

“You guys are doing a good job for the size township you are; we just encourage you to keep doing your due diligence,” Van Dop said.

Also at the meeting, supervisor Jeff Marcinkowski updated the board on the prospect of a couple different funding avenues - federal funding for roadwork on Scenic Drive and the DNR Passport grant for ADA pathways at Nestrom Park. While neither funding is confirmed, Fruitland Township is receiving positive feedback on the projects. However, due to the state of federal funding, the projects, partic-

Whitehall Twp. purchases new padlocks for pickleball courts

By Madison Lajewski White Lake Mirror Writer

WHITEHALL — The Whitehall Township board approved the purchase of new padlocks to put on the pickleball courts at their meeting on Monday. Dennis Kroll, township supervisor, announced that the township plans to close the pickleball courts for the season at the end of October.

Brian Mulnix, caretaker of the Whitehall Township disc golf course, shared a brief update about the planned clearing of brush. Mulnix added that the Muskegon Conservation District is being more strict on clearing their portion of the course. The clearing is anticipated to take place later, possibly in the spring.

Noted preacher, author speaking at White Lake UCC

Rev. Dr. Lillian Daniel, a nationally recognized preacher, teacher and writer, will speak at the White Lake Congregatonal UCC Sunday, Sept. 28 at 10:30 a.m. The public is invited to hear Daniel's presentation.

Rev. Daniel is the Conference Minister of the Michigan Conference of the United Church of Christ. A graduate of Bryn Mawr, Yale Divinity School and Hartford Seminary, she has taught seminarians at schools on several continents and served four congregations as pastor before assuming her current position.

Rev. Daniel is also a widely read author. Her book "Tired of Apologizing for a Church I Don’t Belong To" generated international conversation about the changing religious landscape. It

continues the theme of her 2013 book "When Spiritual But Not Religious Is Not Enough" about the growing number of people who claim “none” as their religious preference. Featured in the New York Times and on PBS, Rev. Daniel’s writing has been described as “biting, hilarious, pitch perfect, tender, and often stunningly beautiful,” and her book "This Odd and Wondrous Calling" is taught in many seminaries. Lillian Daniel has spoken at the National Cathedral, Duke Chapel, King’s College, London and Queen’s College, Ontario, and now she looks forward to speaking at UCC churches across the Michigan Conference, with a focus on communication, connection and celebration, as together we discern what our still speaking God is calling us to do next.

ularly Scenic Drive, are “in limbo” for the time being.

The BLOX Built modular construction for the transfer station office is, likewise, in limbo, as scheduling issues may result in the need to put off pouring the concrete pad until next spring. No contractor in the area will be able to get out to the site to pour until the end of October. The township asked BLOX Built to provide a quote for the company to provide their own concrete work which, of course, will need approval from the board.

The board was not comfortable providing a decision at this month’s meeting and, while Marcinkowski assured that a decision could wait until October, it would put the township in the same scheduling issue as with the previous contractors.

“So if we want this year, we have to make a decision now… If the board wants me to give you a better idea on where that funding will come from, I can have that ready for you in Octo-

ber… And then we can get everything taken care of in the spring," Marcinkowski said.

The board ultimately decided to wait until the October regular meeting to better determine the source of funding, and expressed hope that a warm autumn might even allow the concrete to be poured late in the season.

During public comment, two residents encouraged Fruitland Township to adopt and send to the state level a resolution that would prevent non-Michigan governors from sending their National Guard forces to Michigan without the express approval of Michigan’s governor. As one resident explained, this would work to “ensure our state sovereignty.” This proposed resolution comes after news of National Guard troops being sent to various major U.S. cities and Washington D.C. for the purpose of immigration law enforcement and crime prevention.

Depot to Depot fall color tour spans month of October

The Depot to Depot self-guided fall color tour is coming to Muskegon County for the month of October, offering residents and visitors alike the opportunity to check out scenic routes in the area.

The scenic route follows the historic West Michigan Pike Byway, stretching from the Muskegon South Pierhead Light at Pere Marquette Beach to the White River Light Station on the White Lake Channel. Visitors can enjoy sweeping lakeshore views, fall colors, and countryside while exploring local attractions.

The White Lake Area Chamber & Visitor's Bureau is the northern starting point of the route, offering views of White Lake and a visit to the historic 90702 caboose, which celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2024. One of the spotlight stops on the route is White River Light Station, which commemorated its 150th anniver-

sary this year.

Those interested in starting from the southern end of the Depot to Depot route can start at the Muskegon Union Depot, which opened in 1895 and features red brick and sandstone construction, train memorabilia, public art sculptures, and a classic caboose.

At each depot, visitors can pick up a free scenic route map, insider tips, and autumn postcards, which can even be mailed for free during depot hours. Stop at both locations to collect the full postcard series as a keepsake of your fall adventure. Prefer to plan ahead? Download your

map online to start your journey.

Full details, tips, and downloadable maps for the self-guided tour are available at the Visit Muskegon and White Lake Area Chamber & Visitors Bureau websites. Visitors can also find seasonal fall specials, deals, and packages on the Visit Muskegon “Plan Your Visit” page. Discover Michigan’s autumn colors, plan your Depot to Depot self-guided tour, and create memorable fall experiences in Muskegon County. Share your photos and experiences on social media using #VisitMuskegon and #LIVEwhITelake.

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN The Newfield Township Planning Commission will hold a Public Hearing Tuesday October 14th, 2025 at 6:30 PM at the Newfield Township Hall Located at 3890 S. 198th Ave., Hesperia, Mi. 49421.

The Purpose of the Public Hearing will be to review the Marihuana Processing Application by RQMI LLC for a location at 2514 S. 186th Ave., Hesperia, Mi. They currently have a licensed grow facility at that location and previously held a processing permit. They seek to reinstate that permit.

Written comments that are wished to be read into the public record must be received by the Township by no later than 5:00 PM Monday October 13th, 2025. The Township Hall is located at 3890 S. 198th Ave., Hesperia, Mi. The mailing address is P.O. Box 564, Hesperia, Mi. 49421. For further information please contact Steven Micklin, Zoning Administrator, Newfield Township at 231-301-0181.