The Oceana Echo - Volume 3, Issue 20, October 10, 2025 by theoceanaecho

Hart's ArtWalk features nine unique artists

Connie VanDerZanden/Echo

•

Silver Lake Sand Dunes-Hart Visitors Bureau releases 2024 Tourism Impact

Tourism continues to play a vital role in driving Oceana County’s economy. According to the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) Tourism Economic Impact Report, $181.7 million dollars

were spent in Oceana County during 2024, up 13% over 2023. From lodging and dining to shopping and recreation, tourism dollars support local businesses, creating more than 2,306 jobs and generating over $100.9 million in labor income.

“Tourism continues to be a top contributor to the economic well-being of Oceana County. We

are encouraged to be in our fourth consecutive year of positive growth in the tourism economy,” Executive Director of the Silver Lake Sand DunesHart Visitor Bureau Scott Beal said. “This continued growth is testament to the value of our tourism industry in supporting local businesses, households, and the future of Oceana County.”

OCRC recognized as Best of the Best

Oceana County Road Commission (OCRC) was presented three Statewide Safety Awards from the County Road Association Self Insurance Fund (CRASIF). CRASIF is the workman’s compensation/liability pool for 72 of the road commissions in Michigan.

The first award is the Goose Egg award for zero reportable worker’s compensation losses during 12 months. "Zero workers' compensation losses in our industry over a 12-month period is phenomenal," CRASIF Administrator and CEO Joyce Porter exclaimed. "Regarding the unique name of the award, we had to come up with an eye-catching name for the award since it is a unique achievement."

CRASIF provides safety training and workers' compensation coverage for road commissions.

Chairperson of the CRASIF Board of Trustees and a Commissioner at Mackinac County Road Commission, Tom Doty, stated, "You can't get any better than '0' incidents and '0' losses. What is amazing is that road commission work mainly involves manual labor and putting our people at significant risk of harm while they work in the roadway. The road commission is either lucky or good with employee safety. A little bit of both helps."

"Zero workers' compensation losses also

mean(s) that more of the taxpayers' dollars can go directly to maintaining our roads," Porter added. "The road commission should be applauded for their extraordinary achievement."

OCRC has received nine Goose Egg awards.

The second award is an Honor Roll award for having a lower than average injury rate. "Low injury rates just don't happen in our industry," Porter said about CRASIF providing safety training and workers' compensation coverage for road commissions. "Maintaining 75% of all roads in Michigan (is) the responsibility of county road commissions and departments. It takes energy and focus to constantly remind employees that their safety on the job is a primary concern of management."

The third award is for OCRC having the lowest injury rate in the state in its payroll class. "Road commissions that have lower than average injury rates qualify to be on our Honor Roll. Oceana County Road Commission not only got on the Honor Roll," Porter noted. "They also had the lowest injury rate in their payroll category. They are the best of the best. They should be recognized for their achievement."

“These awards are a great reflection on staff and bargaining unit employees and their commitment to working safely on a daily basis and their buyin to safety training and using the correct equipment and PPE,” OCRC Managing Director Mark Timmer stated.

The awards were announced at the CRASIF Annual Membership Meeting held in Bay City on Sept. 23, 2025.

Hart High School crowned their 2025 Homecoming King Hollis Rockwell IV and Queen Rowan Best, pictured above, Friday, Oct. 3, during halftime of the varsity Pirates football matchup against Mason County Central. Hart won 30-27. • Connie VanDerZanden/Echo

The 2025 Hesperia Homecoming King Eli Edens and Queen Olivia Gerard, pictured above, were crowned at halftime of the Hesperia High School Homecoming varsity football game, Friday, Oct. 3. • Amanda Dodge/Echo

The

Managing Director Mark Timmer and Assistant Manager-Clerk Renee Curtis

Live Chalk Art by Emily Miller

Mixed Mediums by Olivia Prado

Acrylics by Dan VanHuizen

Cut Flower Sculpture by Noble Graham-Lattin

Landscape Photography by Laura McClellan

Acrylics by Leslie Rasmussen

Porch Art by Erna Beard

Mixed Mediums by Kelly Torres-Uresti Ink & Clay Art by Irelyn Cunningham

Board of Commissioners unanimously approves 2025 Tax Millage Rate, snowplow services and excavation work

By Claire Marshall The Oceana Echo Community Correspondent

The Annual Board Meeting for the Oceana County Board of Commissioners took place Sept. 25, with the 2025 Tax Millage Rate being approved unanimously and without any debate.

Likewise, there was no public comment at either the regular meeting or department meetings, which was remarkable to the members in attendance, who quipped that the unprecedented response (or lack thereof) should be noted in the meeting minutes.

It was, likewise, smooth sailing for other items on the agenda. Bids for the snowplow service of county buildings and grounds were opened, and the combined quotes of Beckman Brothers Inc. and Hallack Contracting covered all needed properties with no overlap. Of this lack of competing bids, Chairman Robert Walker said, “It appears it’s not going to be difficult to make a decision.” A decision that was approved unanimously.

For the planned excavation work on the Transfer Station, Ken Adams & Sons Excavating’s bid of $10,810 was approved unanimously. The removal of the Transfer Station’s gate was also added to this quote, with the not-to-exceed amount of $5,000 extra. It was determined after the initial quote that the gate would also need excavation work, and the addition was made in the interest to “keep it [the project] moving… otherwise, it’s just going to delay stuff.”

The board also formally adopted their previous policy revision regarding the seeking of county counsel by department employees into the county’s Board Rules and Policy Handbook made Aug. 14. This is to ensure that current and future commissioners and employees will be able to reference this policy and will not need to rely on others remembering it exists. Said Commissioner Tim Beggs, “The tricky thing

with policy is it’s only as good as your memory that it exists.”

During commissioner reports, Commissioner Paul Erickson discussed the recent Michigan Township Association meeting in Colfax, where all 16 Oceana County townships were in attendance. “There was an exchange of a lot of good ideas… but I think the most important part was that all 16 townships were all in that room at the same time.”

There was much discussion from other commissioners about other boards they served on and what was being done ahead of the State of Michigan budget deadline, which was set for Oct. 1. Of some departments’ own budget decisions, Commissioner

, Honeycrisp, McIntosh, Ambrosia, SnowSweet, Gala, Golden Delicious & more Apples, Potatoes, Cabbage, Peppers, Squash, Decorative Gourds, Mini-Pumpkins, Pumpkins & Cornstalks!

Tim Beggs said that they, “only spend money that they have in hand,” regardless of what possible funding may come from the state level. Walker reported his belief that the District 10 Health Department, which includes Oceana County, will be prepared in case of a state government shutdown. “I think we are prepared very well should there be something that comes from the State… I don’t think we’re gonna see a big slow-down [of essential services].”

The State of Michigan avoided shutdown late Sept. 30 by passing a temporary spending bill, which would allow negotiations on a final budget decision to go on for another week. The final budget was passed and signed Tuesday, Oct. 7.

Shelby-Benona Fire Department Open House

The

Oceana Center Grange Agricultural Report for October

By Phil Carter The Oceana Echo Agricultural Consultant

Everything (or mostly everything) is ripening in the "Land of Oceana." The well-above temperatures and extremely dry soil conditions continue to challenge local farmers, those across Michigan and many nationwide. Growing degree days are ahead of normal, and rainfall is significantly below what crops need.

On the apple frontlines, Jonagold and Empire varieties are wrapping up harvest, with Red Delicious and Golden Delicious. Romes and Ida Reds are being harvested or are almost ready. The overall crop load is variable in this area. Dry conditions have resulted in a higher sugar content (Brix readings), making for a sweeter taste. The earlier cooler nights have allowed for very good coloration as well. Processing apples for sauce, slices and juice continues to enjoy excellent demand. Harvest crews are doing an outstanding job of picking in the warmer weather. There is concern that some varieties

are overripe and will not hold up in long-term storage.

Squash harvest continues with no concerns about getting through the fields with equipment. Soybeans are being taken off with moisture levels low enough to cause field loss. Moisture levels below 13% result in a lighter weight and money left on the table. Corn is drying down rapidly, and that is probably a good thing since commodity prices are below break-even costs for many. Silage corn harvest is ahead of normal as well. Winter wheat has concerns as well. Emerged seedlings need rain to continue growth,

while just-planted wheat won't germinate until a good rain(s) occurs.

Farm trucks and equipment continue to use the roads to move

ahead with harvest. Please continue to exercise caution and patience on our roadways so everyone can go home to their families.

PUBLIC NOTICE

OCEANA COUNTY DHHS/OCMCF BOARD

The Oceana County Board of Commissioners is seeking individuals interested in serving on the Oceana County Department of Health and Human Services/ Oceana County Medical Care Facility Board. Additional information is available online at www.oceana.mi.us

Interested applicants must submit a letter of interest to the Administrator’s Office and attend the October 23, 2025, Board of Commissioners Committee Meeting at 10 AM. Oceana County Building 100 State Street, Ste. M-4 Hart, MI 49420

PUBLIC NOTICE

FERRY TOWNSHIP FALL CLEAN-UP

For Township Residents and Landowners

WHEN: October 27th, 29th & November 1st, 2025

During the Hours of 9am-3pm

To Qualify for Free admittance, you must bring proof of residency in the form of Driver’s License/ID or Property Tax Bill/Receipt

All trash MUST come from FERRY TOWNSHIP

(please make sure your load is secured during your travel)

If you have specific questions on what you can or cannot bring, please contact the Transfer Station at 861-6394 or visit https://oceana.mi.us/services/transfer-stationrecycling-center/ NO HAZARDOUS MATERIALS OR TIRES

Shelby-Benona Fire Department had a wonderful turnout for its Fire Prevention Open House Tuesday, Oct. 7. The event featured a fun house, giveaways, tours, fire truck and ambulance displays, food and drink. • Amanda Dodge/Echo

This page is brought to you by:

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

By Claire Marshall The Oceana Echo Community Columnist

My first attempt to find the Papahmee Indian Cemetery in Elbridge Township was unsuccessful. Going into that first attempt, I knew it would be difficult to find such a small cemetery that was relatively unknown and well off the beaten path. I found the right road, and even the correct two-track accessway, but chickened out, backtracked, and may have done some light trespassing. Before my second attempt, I compared notes with my friends at the Oceana County Historical & Genealogical Society and learned that, if I’d just followed the road a little farther, I would have come to the wooded hill on which the cemetery sat. Considering how easily I got lost looking for the relatively well-known Mouth Cemetery, I shouldn’t be surprised I couldn’t find what was essentially a needle in a haystack.

For my second attempt I was better prepared with hiking shoes, a map to the access road on 140th Ave, and photos I found online of the roughhewn rock steps that led up the hill to the cemetery. Somehow, I still managed to overshoot

the entrance and found myself traipsing up and around the steep ridges of Elbridge Township. After 40 minutes of wandering, I was about to turn back when I found a slab of stone jutting out of the ground. With the veritable army of field stones littering the forest, I was nearly desensitized to the sight of gray rock, until I realized the obvious man-made qualities. I was so ecstatic to finally lock eyes on my target I did not even notice the thorn bushes I was crashing through to reach the cemetery hill.

While contributors on the Find a Grave website have attributed the location of over 100 burials to Papahmee Cemetery, I could only find nine headstones, which themselves were in fairly poor condition. I had brought a sketchbook and some charcoal I haven’t touched since art school to try and make impression rubbings on the headstones, but could only make out a few words.

All of the headstones I could find were from the 1870s and 80s, and considering 150 years of harsh Michigan winters and little attention to groundskeeping, I am surprised there are that many still standing. They were spread out over a hill, all facing the setting sun. As I made my way across the small plot,

'Special thank you' is ripe in the Land of Mears

By Mort Wiegand Oceana County Historical & Genealogical Society

Thank you to all who were in the Golden Fair parade last Friday, Oct. 3. Entries included: the military, the police, the fire department, golf carts, cars and trucks, tractors big and small, a Mac Woods dune scooter, the Hart High School marching band and the Spitler Elementary fourth graders. And thank you to the Golden Eatery for their hamburger and coffee special. Congratulations to 2025 King Theodore Smith and Queen Olivia Mitchell. And to all the folks who came out and cheered them on. It was a perfect day!

If you didn't get your copy of the October 2025 Mears News, extra copies are available at the two restaurants in Mears. Enjoy!

more and more headstones appeared, like skittish animals coming out of their hiding places. The only indication that anyone had been to this cemetery in the last decade was a handful of coins winking in the sunlight and a woven bracelet left at the grave of an infant. There are quite a few child graves at Papahmee.

The most prominent grave is of Joseph Papahmee, who lived from 1797-1870. His epigraph describes him as a “chief and counselor for the Ottawas and Chippewas” and a “preacher of the Catholic denomination.” While he is not the oldest burial in the cemetery, he is possibly the most significant, considering the cemetery bears his name. Next to his grave someone had hung a wind chime dreamcatcher. It had certainly seen better days, but still clinked in the slight breeze.

A 1988 newspaper clipping at the OCH&GS reads that Pawbawme (Papahmee) Burial Ground had been listed in Michigan’s State Register of Historic Sites, one of six in Oceana County, and could be granted a marker describing it as such. If a marker was ever placed at Papahmee, I don’t know, there certainly isn’t one there now. Online registers mark the site as “demolished.”

I can confirm, Papahmee Cemetery is still there, on a hill overlooking a plowed field. There are still graves that need tending and crumbling tombstones choked by some nasty prickers. While the dead buried at Papahmee get to enjoy some beautiful sunsets, I can imagine they’re very lonely without the steady stream of visitors other cemeteries see. If there are even relatives who remain in Oceana County.

If you have or recognize the surnames Papahmee, Bailey, Cogswell, Crampton, McGulpin, Mucktayoquot, Paresian or Wawbekakake, I would recommend you pay a visit, even if you later learn the relation is distant or nonexistent. Check out the cemetery on Find a Grave and see if there are any connections between your family and those buried there.

Funnily enough, I didn’t realize that I was writing this article on a forgotten Native American cemetery so close to Indigenous Peoples’ Day, which is Monday, Oct. 15.

A couple years ago, I was exploring a cemetery in Edinburgh at dusk after a particularly rainy day, and, naturally, I found myself slipping in some mud and banging my temple on a headstone (no, the irony does not escape me.) I called

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

my mom in a, probably concussed, panic asking what I should do in case I angered the unfortunate interred. She humored my paranoia and gave me the advice a member of the Crow Nation gave to her when she lived in Montana - which was to leave some cigarettes or whisky at the grave if I came to find that a spirit followed me home.

When I got home after my Papahmee Cemetery visit, it was already dark. As I got my bag from the car and made my way to the house, I swore I heard a whistle. I looked over to the path in between our house and garden, and I thought I saw a figure walking towards the apple trees in our yard, silhouetted in the moonlight. I raised my hand in hello, assuming it was my dad. After a few seconds, the figure disappeared. I figure I’ll be back at Papahmee in the coming weeks, bottle of scotch in tow.

• Connie VanDerZanden/Echo

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.

WED: Line Dancing, Park Place, Pentwater, 6:30-8 p.m.

THURS - "Harts 'n Homes" Women's Fellowship, Faith Christian Fellowship, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

1st FRI: Free Soup Supper, Ferry Comm. Center, 5-7 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, doors open at 4 p.m.

1st SAT: Baby Pantry, Trinity Lutheran Church, 8:30-10 a.m.

The Ladder Community Center: 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+, 6:30-7:30 p.m.

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

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

Complete schedule at: theladdercommunitycenter.com

OCCOA host many activities in October

The following are OCCOA events for October. All activities are held at the Oceana County Council on Aging located at 4250 W. Tyler Rd., Hart, unless stated otherwise. Please call 873-4461 to sign up or make meal reservations.

Breakfast is available on Thursday mornings from 8:30-9 a.m. Cost: $3 and reservations are required.

Medicare/Medicaid Assistance ProgramDuring Open Enrollment, call 873-4461 to schedule an appointment.

New Class - Yoga with Rob: Wednesdays, Oct. 15, 22 and 29; 4-5 p.m.

Coffee with Ryan: Tuesday, Oct. 14; 10 a.m. Movie and a Snack at OCCOA: Friday, Oct. 17; 1:30 p.m.

Open House: Oct. 19; 1-4 p.m.

Crafts with Kay: Tuesday, Oct. 21; 10 a.m.

Cookie Decorating with Clara: Tuesday, Oct. 28; 10 a.m.

Halloween Party: Thursday, Oct. 30.

Trunk or Treat: Thursday, Oct. 30; 4-5 p.m.

SAIL Exercise Class: Mondays and Wednesdays, Oct. 13, 15, 20, 22, 27 and 29; 10 a.m.

Yoga: Tuesdays (8:30 a.m.) and Fridays (10:15 a.m.), Oct. 14, 17, 21, 24, 28 and 31; 8:30 a.m.

Drum Fitness: Tuesdays, Oct. 14, 21 and 28; 10 a.m.

Zumba: Fridays, Oct. 17, 24 and 31; 9 a.m.

Massage with Briana: Thursday, Oct. 16; 9 a.m. to noon.

Must call to make an appointment.

Caregiver Support Group: Wednesday, Oct. 15; 10 a.m.

Art with Bradley Youngstrom: Monday,

Oct. 27; 10 a.m. The cost is $15, and reservations are required.

Dinner Club: Monday, Oct. 27; 5:30 p.m.

Once a month, we will gather as friends at a different restaurant to enjoy a meal together.

Shopping Trip: Friday, Oct. 17; 9 a.m.

Board Meeting: Tuesday, Oct. 28; 1:30 p.m.

Location: OCCOA

Parmenter Law: Monday, Oct. 20; by appointment only.

Parmenter O’Toole Office Hours: Please call 873-4461 for an appointment.

Lauren Eisenbarth, an Elder Law Paralegal for Attorney Anna Urick Duggins, of Parmenter Law, will offer a half-hour, nocharge introductory meeting, from 2-4 p.m. at OCCOA. Topics to discuss include Elder Law services such as Estate Planning, Long Term Care Planning, Medicaid Planning and VA Aid & Attendance.

Other Activities:

Walk With Friends: Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at 1:30 p.m.

Mahjong: Tuesdays from 1-3 p.m.

Fitness at the Hesperia American Legion: Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, 9-10 a.m.

Euchre: Wednesdays from 1-3 p.m.

Quilting: Wednesdays at 9 a.m. to noon

Beltone Hearing Clinic: 4th Wednesday of the month, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Call 231-8433039 by appt.

Bingo: Thursdays at 10:30 a.m.

Blood Pressure Checks: Thursdays from 11 to noon

Bridge: Thursdays from 1-3 p.m.

Cards & Games: Daily before and following lunch

Oct. 10 - Discipleship Conference, NERC, 6:30 - 9 p.m.

Oct. 10 - Hart Performing Art, Kris Johnson Group, HPS Auditorium, 7:30 p.m.

Oct. 11 - Discipleship Conference, NERC, 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Oct. 11 - Oktoberfest, downtown Pentwater

Oct. 11 - Walkerville Thrives Fundraiser, 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Oct. 11 - Annual Penny Fair, Oceana Grange, 7 p.m.

Oct. 13 - Pentwater Village Manager Open House, Park Place, 5-6 p.m.

Oct. 14 - Adult Book Club Movie, HCL, 2-4:30 p.m.

Oct. 16 - Indoor Trick or Treat, Spitler Elem. School, 6-8 p.m.

Oct. 16 - Friendship Ring Quilt Guild, NERC, 7 p.m.

Oct. 16 - Matinee Movie, HCL, 1 - 3:30 p.m.

Oct 16 - Family Fun Night, HCL 6-7 p.m.

Oct. 17 - Fall Colors Forest Foray, Otto Nature Preserve, 1-3 p.m.

Share about local opera houses at The Ladder

All are invited to The Ladder Community Center in Shelby Tuesday, Oct. 21 from 1:30-2:30 p.m. for Share Our Stories (SOS). This month’s SOS theme will be “History of Hart and Shelby Opera Houses.” These popular opera houses were built in many small towns in the late 1800s for the purpose of bringing culture and entertainment of various kinds to rural areas. Old newspaper clippings explaining the kinds of entertainment at the opera houses will be shown. If anyone has pictures or other memorabilia, they are invited to share them with the group. SOS is a monthly event at The Ladder, where people gather and share memories, photos and other memorabilia from Oceana County. There is no additional cost for registered adult members 18+. Events are subject to change. To inquire about an event or with ideas for future topics of interest for SOS, call The Ladder at 231-259-0211. Visit theladdercommunitycenter.com to view all our upcoming events.

Oktoberfest this weekend in Pentwater

The 29th annual Oktoberfest will take place Saturday, Oct. 11 in Pentwater. The day will be filled with activities for all ages to enjoy throughout the village. Event times are as follows: Stout Stumble 5K check-in 9-10 a.m., Stout Stumble 5K Walk & Run 10 a.m. to noon, with award ceremony to follow at the Village Green; Classic Car and Hot Rod Show, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. with award ceremony to follow at the Village Green; Cousins Maine Lobster Food Truck in chamber parking lot, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.; C.O.V.E. Home Tour, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Quilt Show, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Chili Cook Off at the Village Cafe & Pub, noon to 2 p.m.; Big Ten Football on the big screen at the Village Cafe & Pub, noon to 10 p.m.; Live Music at the Village Cafe & Pub, 2-10 p.m.; and karaoke at the Antler, 10 p.m. to 1 a.m.

For more details, or to register for the Stout Stumble 5K, please visit www. pentwater.org/oktoberfest. Car Show registration is from 8-10 a.m. at the Chamber office, 324 S. Hancock Street.

Walkerville Thrives fundraiser this Saturday

An “All You Can Eat” Pancake Breakfast is planned for Saturday, Oct. 11, from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. to help raise money for the Walkerville Fire Department. The breakfast will be served at 134 S. East St. and will include pancakes, sausage, maple syrup, applesauce, coffee and lemonade. Pancake and sugar-free syrup will also be available.

For anyone unable to make it Oct. 11 yet wishing to donate, can mail checks made out to Walkerville Fire Department to 134 S. East St., Walkerville, Mich. 49459.

Fall Vendor/Craft Show

Saturday, Oct. 18 from 9 AM-3 PM Oceana County Council on Aging 4250 W. Tyler Rd. in Hart

Bring a friend and kick off your holiday shopping!

Many Vendors and Crafters!

Bring an item to donate to the Oceana County Animal Shelter, then pick from our Gift Basket Suggestions: treats, food, toys, leashes or even cash. More details can be found on Facebook Questions or details? Contact Karen Isley at ekisley77@yahoo.com or (231) 742-1150

Faith Christian Fellowship to host Elevate Oceana! fundraiser

By Sharon Hallack

The Oceana Echo Community Correspondent

A community fundraiser, sponsored by Faith Christian Fellowship of Hart, to “elevate” the fund balances of Elevate Oceana! programs will be Saturday, Oct. 18 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Oceana County Fairgrounds Commercial Building.

Elevate Oceana!, located in downtown Hart, offers two homes of refuge, rehabilitation, restoration and reintegration, providing a stable, structured, faith-based, sober-living environment to give participants their best chance at overcoming their addictions and becoming healthy members of society.

The event will have an array of craft, baked and silent auction items available, as well as hourly door prize drawings. “We had our first fundraiser last year and raised $1,500 for Elevate. Now that we know we can do it, we are making it bigger and better. Whether they (Elevate) wish to use it toward finishing the State Street House or for programming, they will get the proceeds,” said organizer Rose Purdy. “This year, we’ve added a prayer tent and will be doing face painting as well.”

Some of the silent auction items include three separate antique pieces of furniture that have been upcycled into separate beverage bars for coffee, tea and cocoa; a limited edition watercolor print by Michael Nabicht; oil paintings by various artists; handmade blankets; jewelry; and spa baskets that will include natural products made by individuals rescued from human trafficking. In addition, the community is invited to donate coats, clothing and household items for a church “community closet” project.

Anyone wishing to donate baked goods, silent auction or community closet items is asked to contact Purdy at 231-721-5947.

TrueNorth’s

TrueNorth’s Coats for Kids (& Adults) program began when one community member chose to share their loved one’s coats with local children in need. That simple act of generosity was the inspiration for an annual program that has served countless Newaygo County children and adults for over 30 years. As West Michigan heads into autumn and colder weather creeps in, the need for warm winter wear is on everyone’s mind.

Anyone can make sure no one has to be cold or worry about their children being cold this winter. TrueNorth is currently collecting new and gently used warm winter coats for children and adults right now. Donations may be dropped off at the TrueNorth service center on M-82 just south of Fremont.

“The generosity of our community always surprises me,” TrueNorth’s Children’s Services and Hunger Prevention Director Mike Voyt said. “With the price of everything continuing to rise, we know the need

Lighthouse Lutheran Church

is great this year, but we also know how amazing Newaygo County residents are.”

For those who do not have used coats to give or the time to shop for new ones, cash donations are always welcome to support the Coats for Kids program. Thanks to established relationships with vendors, TrueNorth is able to purchase new winter coats at or below retail cost. Donations make it possible to purchase the coats most needed, ensuring gaps in sizes are filled. To make a secure, online donation to Coats for Kids (& Adults), visit truenorth-

services.org/coats-forkids-donation

The Coats for Kids (& Adults) distribution will take place on Saturday, Oct. 18 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at TrueNorth, located at 6308 S. Warner Ave. (M-82), in Fremont. There is no pre-registra-

tion required, but everyone receiving a coat must be present the day of.

For more information on Coats for Kids, contact Voyt at 924-0641, ext. 119 or mvoyt@truenorthserives.org, or visit truenorthservices.org/coatsfor-kids

MANY BLESSINGS Mkt

Our Mkt building is open as available We feature jam, pie filling, honey, syrup & crafts Last day for the Mkt is Oct. 31 Thanks for your support! Product available until gone: pumpkins, gourds, winter squash, potatoes and garlic Self-serve open 24/7 for fresh produce Located 1/2 mile E. of Crystal Valley on Madison Rd. Please call to confirm product or to place orders (231) 873-4844 • Jill Whitaker

1901 Oak Ave., New Era, MI 49446

In

obituaries

Roger Joseph Bowen

July 22, 1936 ~ September 27, 2025

Roger Joseph Bowen, 89, of Shelby, passed away Saturday, September 27, 2025. He was born July 22, 1936, in Grand Haven, the son of Willard and Helen (Smith) Bowen.

Who can forget being greeted with that ear-to-ear grin – the spark in those eyes — and for the men, a firm handshake and a “How ya’ doin’, fella?”

And always seeing him busy — even when there was nothing to do, the man did something anyway.

So it’s fitting that in the suggestions he made for his obituary, there’s a list titled “Some Things I Did.”

He hunted and fished, swam many lakes (Spring, White, Crystal, Torch and Geneva in Wisconsin), skied wa ter and snow, tobogganed, kayaked and canoed and ran track in junior and senior high school (placed 2nd in State Finals Class A for the 800yard run).

He power parachuted twice, spent two days on the Mississippi and seven on a cruise from Montreal to Boston, traveled England and Wales and Ireland, and straddled the border between Italy and France on Mont Blanc at 10,000 feet.

He hiked the Grand Canyon multiple times, usually with his brother Les and brother-in-law Joe, and followed the path the Klondike Gold Rush prospectors took, the Chilkoot Trail, between Alaska and British Columbia.

He built a drift boat, flew RC planes, and got a ham radio license. He made jewelry from rocks he’d tumbled and even made knives.

And the miles he and Sharon put on that trailer: every winter from Shelby to Quartzite; a 91-day trip to Alaska; and 30 days to Montana (with Henry and Judy).

It’s hard to imagine no more itineraries, no more adventures. But the man who never stopped moving found a way to continue his adventure: through those of his children, and theirs, and theirs.

At the end of visits to his house, he’d wave as we backed out his drive; we’d honk twice as we left and wave back.

As he waves goodbye today, we honk twice for the very last time.

For Roger (from Jon)

When he finally lost his get-up-and-go

The notion seemed remote.

Now he’s checking the paint

On St. Peter’s gate

And offering to give it a coat.

Roger is survived by: his children, Lisa (Bruce) Snider, Laurie (James) Newell, Nanette (Jon Snider) Bowen and Jennifer (George) Coulier; many grandchildren and great-grandchildren; sister, Marsha (Joe) Lemieux; and brother, Les (Patricia) Bowen.

Roger was preceded in death by: his parents, Willard Lincoln Bowen and Helen Mae Turner; wife, Sharon; son, Brian; wife, Phyllis Schlee; and brother, Bruce.

Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated at 11 a.m., Tuesday, September 30, 2025, at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, 2380 W. Jackson Rd., Hart, Michigan 49420, with Father Phillip Sliwinski presiding. The family received friends from 10 a.m. until the time of services at the Church on Tuesday, September 30, 2025. Interment followed in Mt. Hope Cemetery in Shelby, Michigan.

In lieu of flowers, please consider memorial contributions to: The Nature Conservancy, ATTN: Treasury, 4245 N. Fairfax Dr., Suite 100, Arlington, VA 22203 USA, or preserve.nature.org.

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

Sidney Charles Reames, 69, passed away peacefully on October 1, 2025. He was born April 22, 1956, the son of Harold and Norma Joyce (Munroe) Reames. Sidney is survived by: his loving mother, Joyce Reames; brother, Doug Reames; daughters, Trinda (Tim) Margiotta and Janessa (Jake) VanderVelde; and four wonderful grandchildren who brought him great joy.

In accordance with Sidney’s wishes, cremation has taken place, and a private service will be held for the family.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you honor Sidney’s memory by spending time with those you love and holding each moment close to your heart.

Above all, take time to share the gospel of Jesus Christ; the beautiful message of salvation, hope, and eternal life found in Him.

Harris Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Thanks

Jerry Lee Frick

October 23, 1941 ~ October 3, 2025

Jerry Lee Frick, 83, passed away unexpectedly Friday, October 3, 2025. He was born October 23, 1941, in Hart, the son of E. Lyle and Leona (Chase) Frick.

Jerry spent his whole childhood around the family business, Walkerville Well Drilling, with his father and brother. He grew from helper to licensed driller to master electrician to owning the business and continued to work there, helping in any way he could up until the day he died. Along with running his business, Jerry held positions on the National Water Well Association and the Michigan Ground Water Association Board of Directors. He was always striving to learn more so he could give back more.

This can be seen in the level of Jerry's involvement in his community, where he gave a tremendous amount of time serving on various committees and leadership positions. He served on the board of his church, 11 years on the Walkerville Public School Board, six years on the Oceana County Intermediate School Board, numerous years as President of the Village Council, over 30 years as the Oceana County Deputy Emergency Management Director, a member of the Walkerville Fire Department for over 50 years and Fire Chief for 33 years. He poured untold hours into writing grants and procuring donations for new fire/ EMS equipment, fire prevention and training equipment. As Village President, his grant writing was instrumental in bringing improvements to the community, such as building the Fire Station, fixing roads, getting high-speed internet and the Village Sewer system, just to name a few.

Jerry was an avid reader and had a love for learning. He enjoyed traveling to historic areas throughout the country with his family, and if you ever asked Jerry about his family, you were bound to hear many stories about his grandkids, whom he was extremely proud of.

Jerry is survived by: his wife of 61 years, Verla; daughter, Angela (Mike) Slowik; grandchildren, Kaylee (Frank) Acosta, Kevin (Allyson) Slowik, and Nathan (Moriah) Slowik; and sister, Carol.

Jerry was preceded in death by: his parents, Lyle and Leona; brother Robert, and son, Gregory.

A visitation will be held on Sunday, October 19, from 1-3 p.m. at Walkerville United Methodist Church on Main Street.

In lieu of flowers, please consider memorial contributions to: https://build. loveincoceana.com/donate/

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

The Oceana Community Foundation (OCF) is excited to announce that applications for its 2026 scholarship program will open Oct. 15, 2025. Each year, the OCF helps local students access a wide range of scholarships to support their educational and career goals, whether pursuing skilled trades, apprenticeships, certificates, associate degrees or bachelor’s degrees.

In 2025, the OCF awarded scholarships to 192 students, representing an investment of $311,850 in Oceana County’s future.

The OCF offers scholarships for everyone, and all students are encouraged to apply, regardless of GPA, documentation status, field of study, family income or age.

For 2026, students will have access to 57

different scholarships through one simple application.

“Education opens doors to opportunity, and we are committed to making it accessible to as many students as possible,” OCF CEO Tammy Carey said. “The success of our 2025 scholarship recipients demonstrates the lasting impact our

scholarship donors can have, and we look forward to continuing this tradition in 2026.”

The scholarship application will close March 1, 2026, with award notifications shared in May 2026.

Students can learn more and apply online at oceanafoundation.org.

ELBRIDGE TOWNSHIP NEW MEETING DATE

The Elbridge Township Council has changed its regular meeting for next week to Thursday, October 16, 2025 at 7:30 PM in the Elbridge Township Hall, 2266 E. Polk Road, Hart, MI 49420

SERVICE: (800) 708-7311

FEATURES WEEKLY SERVICE, STREET, 15th FLOOR, NEW 10019

SERVICE: (800) 708-7311 EXT.

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RELEASE SEPT. 29, 2025

Winborne

omer Charles Messier discovered the first-known spiral galaxy and named it the Whirlpool Galaxy. It would be another three centuries before scientists confirmed that our own galaxy, the Milky Way, is also spiral shaped.

On Oct. 14, 1977, pop singer, former beauty queen and spokesperson for Florida orange juice Anita Bryant was hit in the face with a pie by gay rights activist Tom Higgins while speaking at an Iowa event to promote her campaign to repeal anti-discrimination laws protecting LGBTQ people.

Oceana County monthly meetings

By Sharon Hallack The Oceana Echo Community Correspondent

• On Oct. 13, 1773, French astronomer Charles Messier discovered the first-known spiral galaxy and named it the Whirlpool Galaxy. It would be another three centuries before scientists confirmed that our own galaxy, the Milky Way, is also spiral shaped.

On Oct. 15, 1864, the world’s first successful combat submarine, the H.L. Hunley, went down in Charleston Harbor during a demo run, killing its inventor and namesake along with seven crew members. The vessel was recovered and performed its only successful mission the following year when it sank the Yankee ship Housatonic, but sank again, taking its third ill-fated crew with it. Raised again in 2000, it is currently on exhibit in Charleston.

On Oct. 16, 1964, after conducting a successful nuclear test, China became the fifth nation with atomic bomb capability, after the United States, the Soviet Union, Great Britain and France.

On Oct. 17, 1985, magicians Penn & Teller notably responded to “Late Night” host David Letterman’s invitation to “surprise” him on their next appearance on his show by unleashing hundreds of cockroaches from a top hat onto his desk. While Letterman was unsurprisingly hardly pleased, he later admitted the stunt made “great TV.”

In an effort to make Oceana County the best it can be, all citizens are encouraged to be involved in some way, at every level and in every sector of our community. To that end, we present the following monthly board meeting dates and contact information. If you are trying to contact a township office or official directly, please note that phone messages and emails may not be checked daily. Most websites have a wealth of additional information for citizens, including contact numbers, open hours, meeting times/minutes, special committees and township notices. For entities without websites, social media accounts may offer information or a contact number. If you are wondering where to ask questions or share your ideas and how you can be more involved, attending a local municipal meeting is a great place to start!

FIRST MONDAY of the month

• Shelby Township: 6 p.m. Jan-Apr & Oct-Dec; 7 p.m. May-Sept. 231-861-5853, shelbytownshipoceana.com

SECOND MONDAY of the month

• Ferry Township: 7:30 p.m., 231-8610545, ferrytownship.org

FOURTH TUESDAY of the month

• Oceana County Council on Aging: 1:30 p.m., 231-873-4461, oceanacoa.com

On Oct. 16, 1964, after conducting a successful nuclear test, China became the fifth nation with atomic bomb capability, after the United States, the Soviet Union, Great Britain and France.

On Oct. 18, 1974, singer Al Green was attacked by his former girlfriend, Mary Woodson, in his Memphis home while taking a bath. Woodson dumped a pot of scalding grits on his back before retreating to a bedroom where she killed herself with Green’s gun.

• Village of Pentwater: 6 p.m., 231-8698301, pentwatervillage.com

• Village of Shelby: 6 p.m., 231-861-4400, shelbyvillage.com

• Hart Area Public Library: 6 p.m., 231873-4476, hartpubliclibrary.org

• Shelby Area District Library: 5:30-6:30 p.m., 231-861-4565, shelbylibrary.org

• City of Hart: 7:30 p.m., 231-873-2488, cityofhart.org

FIRST WEDNESDAY of the month

On Oct. 19, 1994, Jesse Timmendequas was charged with killing 7-yearold Megan Kanka in New Jersey. The crime inspired Megan’s Law, a statute requiring that information about convicted sex felons be made available to the public. Versions of Megan’s Law have been passed in many states since her death.

• Greenwood Township: 7 p.m., 231-8540202, greenwood-township.com

• Leavitt Township: 7 p.m. No phone or website. Address: 2401 N. 184th Ave., Walkerville.

• Claybanks Township: 7:30 p.m., 231861-1060, claybankstownship.org

• Village of Hesperia: 7:30 p.m., 231-8546205, hesperiavillage.com

• Weare Township: 7:30 p.m., 231-8730144, wearetownship.org

THIRD MONDAY of the month

• Walkerville Fire Department: 7 p.m., 134 S. East St., Walkerville.

• Grant Township: 7:30 p.m., 231-8936336, granttownshipoceana.com

SECOND WEDNESDAY of the month

• Oceana County Road Commission Board: 10 a.m., 844 Griswold St., Hart.

• Pentwater Township: 6 p.m., 231-8696231, pentwatertwp.org

• Hart Township: 7:30 p.m., 231-873-2734, harttownship.org

By Lucie Winborne

• In a remote area of Colombia called Los Pinos, some students have to get to school on a zipline up to 800 meters long.

• A teaspoon of a neutron star would weigh over a trillion tons.

• Chock Full o’ Nuts coffee does not contain nuts. It’s named for a chain of nut stores that the founder converted into coffee shops.

• During the Middle Iron Age, spears were placed into the graves of some young men. The reason isn’t clear, but some think it may have been a military send-off similar to the modern 21-gun salute.

• While worms make up the majority of their diet, robins won’t mind if you leave out a dessert tray. In fact, they’re partial to pastry dough, fruit cake and coconut cake.

• In 1998, a Georgia student was suspended for wearing a Pepsi shirt to “Coke in Education Day.”

• County Fire Training: 6 p.m.; Shelby Benona Fire Dept. Fire Training, 7 p.m., 430 N. Industrial Dr., Shelby. See Facebook or Instagram for information.

• Crystal Township: 7 p.m., crystaltownship.org

FOURTH MONDAY of the month

• Village of Shelby: 6 p.m., 231-861-4400, shelbyvillage.com

• Village of Pentwater: 6 p.m., 231-8698301, pentwatervillage.com

• Benona Township: 7 p.m., 231-8612154, benonatownship.org

• Oceana County DHHS/OCMCF Board Meeting, Hart Community Center, 9 a.m., 407 State St., Hart.

FIRST TUESDAY of the month

• Colfax Township: 7 p.m., 231-742-8216, colfaxtownshipoceana.org

SECOND TUESDAY of the month

FOURTH WEDNESDAY of the month Oceana County Road Commission Board: 10 a.m., 844 Griswold St., Hart.

SECOND THURSDAY of the month

• County Board of Commissioners: 11:30 a.m., Oceana County Courthouse Board Room, oceana.mi.us/events

• Otto Township: 7 p.m., ottotownship. com

• Village of New Era: 7 p.m., neweravillage. com

THIRD THURSDAY of the month

• County Fire Training: 6 p.m.; Shelby Benona Fire Department Fire Training, 7 p.m., 430 N. Industrial Dr., Shelby. See Facebook or Instagram for information.

• Village of Walkerville: 7:30 p.m., 231873-5842, 121 S. East St., P.O. Box 97, Walkerville. Find the Walkerville Police Department on Facebook.

FOURTH THURSDAY of the month

Oceana County

ANIMAL SHELTER

Dilly is a 1-year-old Border Collie mix who’s basically a walking ray of sunshine with four paws and a wagging tail. This handsome fella is extremely sweet—the kind of sweet that makes you forget your bad day the second he greets you with those puppy-dog eyes. He’s great with other dogs and would love a buddy to zoom around with. But cats? Nope. Dilly thinks cats are mysterious shadow ninjas and has politely asked us to place him in a cat-free home.

Dilly is still young, playful and smart (hello, Aussie/ Border Collie genes!). He’ll happily learn new tricks if you’ve got treats and belly rubs at the ready. Whether you’re looking for a walking buddy, a Netflix binge partner or just a daily dose of joy, Dilly’s your guy!

Dilly 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.

• American cheese was invented in Switzerland in 1911 by Waltz Gerber and Fritz Stettler to lengthen the shelf life before being shipped overseas.

• According to Guinness World Records, Veronica Seider’s eyesight was so keen that she could recognize people from more than a mile away.

• In 2010, a man became stranded for days near Wollaston Lake, Saskatchewan. With no way to call for help, he cut down four wooden power poles with an ax, causing an outage to the nearby community, and SaskPower sent a helicopter crew to investigate. They found the man and escorted him back to safety.

• When Joel Burger married Ashley King in 2015, Burger King paid for the ceremony.

• In India, escalators in Delhi metro stations feature “sari guards” to prevent women’s long garments from getting trapped.

***

• City of Hart: 7:30 p.m., 231-873-2488, cityofhart.org

• Elbridge Township: 7:30 p.m., 231-8734740, elbridgetownship.org,

• Golden Township: 7:30 p.m., 231-8734413, goldentownship.org

THIRD TUESDAY of the month

• Hesperia Comm. Library, 4:30 p.m., 231-854-5125, hesperialibrary.org

• Pentwater Twp. Library, 5:30 p.m., 231869-8581, pentwaterlibrary.org

• Newfield Township: 7 p.m., 231-8544702, newfieldtownship.org

• Village of Rothbury: 7 p.m., 231-8942385, villageofrothbury.org

Hart Gun Show

Oct. 11, 2025 9AM to 3PM West Michigan Masonic Center 2661 N. Oceana

• Oceana County Board of Commissioners: 11:30 a.m., Oceana County Courthouse Board Room, oceana.mi.us/events

• Hart Area Fire Department Fire Command Board: 7 p.m., 808 S. State St., Hart. See their Facebook page for information.

LAST FRIDAY of the month

• District Health Department #10 Board of Health: 10 a.m., fall and winter months; 9:30 a.m., spring and summer months; Wexford Health Department, Cadillac; Health Officer, Kevin Hughes, khughes@ dhd10.org

• Connie VanDerZanden/Echo

• Amanda Dodge/Echo

• Claire Marshall/Echo

Panthers see bright spots in defeat to Ravenna

By Andy Roberts

The Oceana Echo Community Contributor

Echo community correspondent Amanda Dodge contributed to this story.

Hesperia was unable to get the win Friday against a strong Ravenna team, falling 50-21, but with a whopping seven freshmen in the starting lineup, coach Tyler Fehler felt like he saw several promising signs for the future of his team.

“This is the best we’ve played Ravenna since I’ve been here,” Fehler said. “We started out well. We can play with these guys at times. It’s just putting it all together. We’re young, but that’s no excuse. It’s a step forward. We just need to grow from it.”

Through a quarter, the Panthers (15, 0-3 West Michigan Conference Rivers) had battled Ravenna to a standstill, as the score was tied 8-8. The Bulldogs were able to wear Hesperia down as the game went along, scoring 27 unanswered points to build a 35-8 lead at halftime.

Ravenna’s offensive dominance spoiled an efficient passing performance from Panthers’ quarterback Tucker Bolles. The freshman signal-caller was 14-of-21 passing for 168 yards and a pair of touchdowns, both to Eli Edens. Edens caught nine

Hesperia’s Eli Edens (6) follows his blocks for more yards during Friday’s game against Ravenna.

• Amanda Dodge/Echo

of Bolles’ 14 completions, ran for 71 yards on the ground, and was also named homecoming king at halftime.

Another freshman, tackle Mackie McKinnon, also stood out to Fehler, not so much because of his statistical production - though he did have six tackles - but because he has a motor that seemingly never lets up.

“I talk about the dude all the time,” Fehler said of McKinnon. “He’s the only player that I’ve seen - he’s a freshman, so he’s 14 - and he’s not come out (of the game). He’s played every play of offense and defense for the entire season. Nothing against anybody else, but getting winded, they need a breather here, a breather there. The dude is like a camel. He’s got water in his hips or something.”

Noah Walker led the defense with

Hart, Hesperia end seasons at regionals

By Andy Roberts

The Oceana Echo Community Contributor

Hart and Hesperia capped off their girls golf seasons Monday at the Division 4 regional tournament in Kent City. The Pirates finished in ninth place with a score of 496, and Hesperia was 12th with a 524.

The Pirates’ Reese Smith provided the top performance among county players, shooting a 119 on a day only 10 players in the field cleared 100. Kennedy Symons wasn’t far behind, with a 122.

Also for the Pirates, Ali Fleming had a 126 and Makenna Carrier shot a 129. Lauren Hopkins posted a 155.

For Hesperia, Britney Budde led the way with a 122 and Sarissa Conkle shot a 132. Kloe Graham’s 132 and Olivia McGahan’s 136 got them into the Panther scorebook, and Zoey Bostrom shot a 154.

“It’s been a season marked by steady improvement, teamwork, and perseverance,” Hesperia coach Roxanne Kammer wrote on the school’s Facebook page. “These athletes represented Hesperia with determination and heart every time they stepped on the course this season...We’re excited to see our golfers put in some time during the off-season and come back even stronger.”

nine tackles and Edens had eight.

With so much youth on the team, each passing game offers learning opportunities as the inexperienced roster adjusts to varsity football - especially against opponents the caliber of Ravenna.

“To be in a dogfight like this, it’s just good growth,” Fehler said. “I think we learned a lot about ourselves tonight and about what it takes to get wins against quality football teams

and what that looks like.”

It doesn’t get easier for the Panthers, who face Mason County Central next week. Though the Spartans are 2-4 on the season, Fehler said he thinks they are as hard-nosed and physically tough to go against as any team in the WMC Rivers.

“Everybody’s got strengths and

Football results continued on page 11

Falcons end regular season with close loss to Orchard View

By Andy Roberts The Oceana Echo Community Contributor

PENTWATER —

Pentwater got itself ready for its coming district tournament matchup by playing a bigger Orchard View squad Monday, and while the Falcons lost 2-1, coach Ralph Achterhof was pleased with his team’s effort level.

The contest was quite physical, especially later in the game as the Cardinals sold out to prevent Pentwater from having a chance to tie the score. They went as far as the Cardinal keeper colliding with the Falcons’ Brayden Stein on a play Pentwater’s sideline felt should’ve resulted in a penalty kick.

“I sometimes think my guys have to get used to it a little bit,” Achterhof said. “I tell them to step it up and stand up. So long as you do it the right way, and you use your shoulder.”

Pentwater was getting ready for a very

Pentwater’s Brody Austin (24) tries to deflect the ball off an Orchard View foe’s foot during Monday’s game at Pentwater. Austin had the Falcons’ only goal in a 2-1 defeat.

• Andy Roberts/Echo

stern test in the district, as the Falcons open play with No. 10-ranked Leland, the district’s top seed, on the road.

“They’re really good, from what I’m told,” Achterhof said of Leland. “It’s probably going to be a tough battle. Games like tonight and Montague (a Falcons’ win earlier this season), games like that are really good for us. We have

some other teams that we played that are just good back and forth games, and that’s good for the kids. That’s how they get better.”

Orchard View had the better of play for most of the first half and early in the second and was rewarded with two goals. The Cardinals got a well-placed ball off a corner kick, making for an easy toe tap for the

score, and put in another goal early in the second half off a throw-in. OV also hit the crossbar twice with shots, so the lead was close to being even bigger.

Pentwater did respond with 32:37 to go when Brody Austin took a nice pass from Aron Mascorro, quickly wheeled around and

PENTWATER

SHELBY

Hesperia’s Eli Edens (on ground) is forced out of bounds by Ravenna’s Ethan Deal after a nice gain during Friday’s WMC Rivers game at Hesperia. Edens had a big offensive night, but the Panthers lost 50-21. • Amanda Dodge/Echo

Hesperia’s golf team celebrates the conclusion of the season Monday at the Division 4 regional meet at Kent City. The Panthers finished in 12th place, and fellow county school Hart was 9th.

• Courtesy Photo

ECHO

Football results

weaknesses, but those boys are tough,” Fehler said. “We’ve just got to play tough. Simple as that. We’re going to be able to throw the ball. They play man coverage all over the field, and I like to throw the ball. We’ll have chances.”

Hart hangs on to earn win over MCC

Hart overcame a pair of late fumbles, one of which was returned for a touchdown, to hang on for an impressive win over Mason County Central Friday, 30-27.

Hart (3-3, 2-2 West Michigan Conference Rivers) statistically controlled the game, outgaining the Spartans 290-176, and earned 5.6 yards per carry on the ground.

MCC returned a fumble 40 yards for a touchdown with 2:10 to play, but Hart’s Haegan Hansen recovered the onside kick and the Pirates were able to run out the clock.

The Pirates allowed a touchdown drive to start the game, but hit pay dirt the first three times they had the ball to grab a 22-7 lead. Halen Boos ran for a clutch 14-yard gain on 3rd-and-11 on the first drive, and Hansen later capped the possession with a 33yard scoring run. Boos had a 17-yard touchdown run on the next Hart possession, and he and Chase Lorenz ripped off big chunks of yardage for the Pirates’ third drive, with Kolton Rockwell ultimately cashing in with a short touchdown.

MCC stormed back within two points with a pair of touchdowns, one of them coming on a blocked punt, but the Pirates got a 55-yard touchdown run

Close game

fired a good shot that found the net, making the score 2-1. Achterhof said the Falcons have been in Austin’s ear about being more aggressive in shooting, and seeing him rewarded for doing so was satisfying.

“The goal Brody made tonight was a beautiful goal, stopping that ball, turning around and shooting,” Achterhof said. “We’ve been telling him at practice that he has the tendency to stop the ball, then go left or go right, and usually it ends up with (no shot opportunity). When we go up to Leland, if you don’t do that, you lose the ball. That’s just how good they are.”

Another bright spot for Pentwater, one it’s had most of the season, was solid play from keeper Ben Wisenbaugh. Wisenbaugh took over in goal partway through the season because the Falcons were not seeing the desired results with Gavin Macher in net. Wisenbaugh volunteered for the position, reasoning that he had experience playing as a youth hockey goalie, and sometimes his play shows it. At one point Monday he was briefly shaken up after colliding with a Cardinal, but returned to the game a couple of minutes later.

“Some of the things he does are more hockey goalie things than soccer goalie things, but he has been outstanding for us,” Achterhof said. “He doesn’t really like it, because he wants to be a forward and make goals, so last week we played against Crossroads, and we put him in the front and he made a couple goals.”

The loss put the Falcons’ final regular season record at 6-6-1, a solid mark considering the team had to replace nine seniors from last season. This year the team was much younger - Austin and

from Kyle Greiner late in the third quarter for the team’s final score of the game.

Greiner ran for 119 yards in all, and Boos had 86 rushing yards and 30 receiving. Boos racked up 11 tackles on defense and had three pass breakups. Hansen had eight tackles.

Shelby dominates Muskegon Catholic, moves to 4-2

Shelby played an outstanding game on both sides of the ball Friday, routing Muskegon Catholic 44-8 to improve to 4-2 on the season.

It was the Brody Fessenden show on defense for the Tigers, as he racked up 15 tackles, two of them for a loss. Evan Waller had the biggest single defensive play, grabbing an interception and taking it back for a touchdown.

On offense, Shelby ripped off a lot of big plays, dicing up the Crusader defense. Isaac Garcia ran for an 85-yard touchdown. Garcia also threw a 47-yard touchdown to Trevor Weiss. In all, Garcia threw for 132 yards and ran for 98.

Garcia was hardly the only Tiger to make his presence felt Friday. Jaylin Henderson got in the end zone three times on 106 yards of offense - 57 on the ground, 34 passing, and 15 receiving. DayDay Garcia had 78 yards of offense and Fessenden totaled 71. Weiss had 102 total yards receiving.

Max Hagstrom contributed seven tackles to supplement Fessenden’s 15 as the Tigers put forth a dominant defensive effort. Shelby allowed just 10 passing yards on the night.

continued from page 10

Stein are the only seniors, so the Falcons will have to replace their top two scorers - and Achterhof said the Falcons have exceeded his expectations.

“We had some good teams that we beat,” Achterhof said.

“We will see what happens Wednesday. I feel there are quite a few teams in that district that we could compete with or (beat), but Leland is going to be tough.

• Jill Tanis/Courtesy Photo

County matchups highlight week of volleyball action

By Andy Roberts The Oceana Echo Community Contributor

Hart topped Hesperia Tuesday night in a West Michigan Conference Rivers and intracounty clash, 25-12, 25-12, 25-16.

“The girls had a good night tonight,” Hart coach Shawn Bectel said. “We tried a few new things and had a strong night overall.”

Hart (11-14-1, 3-1 WMC Rivers) was very good on the attack, hitting .153 as a team, and also at the service line, where the Pirates made only five errors while serving 12 aces. Alayna Schiller notched six of those aces without making an error.

Reese Smith paced the Hart offense with nine kills, and Cali Eisenlohr posted 15 assists. Schiller had 17 digs.

Hesperia stats were not reported.

Pentwater knocks off Walkerville

Pentwater rallied from an early two-game deficit to eke out an exciting West Michigan D League win over Walkerville last Thursday night, 19-25, 15-25, 25-17, 25-22, 15-10.

“The Falcons showed grit and teamwork, proving their ability to battle back and finish strong,” Falcons’ coach Kelly Pascavis said.

Emma Werkema-Grondsma totaled 17 service points on the night, and Charlie Swanger led in attacking with 12 kills. Stella Bouye posted nine assists and Lily Bouye led the defense with six digs.

Walkerville statistics were not reported.

Shelby piles up aces in sweep of Holton

Shelby had no trouble with Holton Tuesday in a West Michigan Conference Rivers match, rolling to a 25-7, 25-17, 25-15 win.

We’ve got a game plan.”

Pentwater falls in district opener

Pentwater dropped a 4-0 decision to No. 10-ranked Leland in Monday’s district opener, ending its season.

Statistical information was not reported at press time.

The Tigers (10-14, 4-1 WMC Rivers) were overwhelming at the service line, especially Hali Hayes, who racked up 11 aces. Briar Peters and Charlee Friedman each had five.

“Hali Hayes had a great performance all around,” Shelby coach McKenna Peters said. “We have moved her around in many different positions this year and she has done a really great job in that role for us. She played middle and outside and was efficient in both spots with an overall hitting percentage of .241.”

Peyton Rapes helped the Tiger offense along with 23 assists. Kylie Brown had a team-best eight kills, and on defense, Ariana Garza posted 15 digs.

Hesperia’s Ryan Fuentes (with ball) tries to bull into the end zone during Friday’s game against Ravenna. Joel Kantola (56) is among the defenders for Ravenna. Hesperia dropped a 50-21 decision. • Amanda Dodge/Echo

Hart defenders stack up Mason County Central ball carrier Kaden Ruiz during Friday’s game at Hart. The Pirates fought to a 30-27 victory.

Pentwater’s Gabe Villarreal tries to beat an Orchard View foe to a loose ball during Monday’s game at Pentwater. The Falcons dropped a 2-1 decision.

• Andy Roberts/Echo

Pentwater’s Olen Orde (10) goes for the ball during Monday’s game against Orchard View. The Falcons dropped a close game, 2-1.

• Andy Roberts/Echo

•

White Lake Mirror White Lake Mirror

YOUR LOCALLY OWNED AND OPERATED NONPROFIT NEWS SOURCE

White Lake area celebrates Fire Prevention Week

Beginning at the Montague Fire Station, the parade of emergency vehicles made its way past Montague High School (above photos) and on into Whitehall.

The White Lake area celebrated National Fire Prevention Week, which took place Oct. 5-11 this year, with several events. Tuesday night, the White Lake Fire Authority and Montague Fire Department joined together to participate in the annual Fire Prevention Parade. Beginning at the Montague Fire Station, the parade of emergency vehicles made its way past Montague High School (above photos) and on into Whitehall.

Wednesday night, the Montague Fire District hosted its annual fire prevention open house, including a visit from Sparky the Dalmatian, apple cider, donuts and rides on the fire truck (photos at right).

• Andy Roberts/Mirror Photos

Muskegon Lake delisted as Area of Concern

Joins White Lake (2014) as Lake Michigan areas to be delisted

After decades of coordinated cleanup and community engagement, the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy announced Oct. 1 that Muskegon Lake is no longer on a list of the Great Lakes’ most polluted places.

EGLE officials joined federal and local leaders at Heritage Landing Park in Muskegon for a celebration of the

lake’s removal, or delisting, from the U.S.-Canadian roster of Areas of Concern (AOC) around the Great Lakes.

“Completing this long journey of recovery, restoration, and renewal is a tremendous community achievement that EGLE has been proud to assist,” said EGLE Director Phil Roos in a press release. “Along with many partners, we celebrate today’s success and look forward to supporting tomorrow’s stewardship and growth.”

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 Administrator

Whitehall, R-P crown

homecoming

homecoming royalty

Whitehall, R-P crown homecoming royalty

royalty

saw a

its homecoming king and queen, Owen Ritsema and LolaJayne Sapone, following Friday's defeat against Forest Hills Northern. Coverage of the games begins on page 4.

• Andy Roberts/Mirror and Joe Lane/Courtesy Photo

page 4.

Friday's

and Great Lakes National Program Manager Anne Vogel called it “a significant milestone in our ongoing work to restore and protect the Great Lakes. This accomplishment showcases the commitment and collaborative spirit of our partners in restoring not just the lake, but also the habitats and recreational opportunities that had been lost for so long.”

AOCs are designated areas in the Great Lakes Basin marked by high levels of historical legacy pollution requiring cleanup. The Great Lakes

AOC Program was established in 1987 under the U.S.-Canada Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement to tackle the worst pollution hot spots.

Muskegon Lake was named an AOC even earlier, in 1985, following more than a century of contamination from industrial and municipal waste. The Muskegon Lake Watershed Partnership (MLWP) formed in 1991. Six years later, sediment remediation

Aldi parking lot closing in on completion

Aldi parking lot closing

Aldi parking lot closing in on completion

Friday saw a pair of local schools crown their homecoming royalty. At halftime of Whitehall's homecoming defeat to Oakridge, the Vikings' homecoming king and queen were announced as Caden Bowyer and Janie Fagan (left). Reeths-Puffer named its homecoming king and queen, Owen Ritsema and LolaJayne Sapone, following Friday's defeat against Forest Hills Northern. Coverage of the games begins on page 4.

• Andy Roberts/Mirror and Joe Lane/Courtesy Photo

Friday

pair

local schools crown their homecoming royalty. At halftime of Whitehall's homecoming defeat to Oakridge, the Vikings' homecoming king and queen were announced as Caden Bowyer and Janie Fagan (left). Reeths-Puffer named its homecoming king and queen, Owen Ritsema and LolaJayne Sapone, following

defeat against Forest Hills Northern. Coverage of the games begins on

Andy Roberts/Mirror and Joe Lane/Courtesy Photo

Friday saw

pair

The soon-to-be Aldi parking lot at the Colby Street plaza in Whitehall is closing in on completion. After the parking lot was fully closed off to motorists for a time due to work being done on the lot, the layers of asphalt necessary for the lot are beginning to go in. This photo from Friday shows the progress. Big John's Pizza posted on Facebook this week that the top layer was in and encouraged customers to visit via the Peterson Road entrance for now until the lot is fully complete. • Andy Roberts/Mirror

• Courtesy Photo

Cutter McLane removed from Silversides Museum

After deliberation by the staff and Board of Directors, the USS Silversides Submarine Museum recently made the decision to de-accession the U.S. Coast Guard Cutter McLane from the museum’s permanent collection.

The vessel, which had been closed to the public since this spring due to ongoing maintenance concerns, was towed away with the support of dedicated community partners. After nearly a century of service in both salt and fresh water, the McLane’s condition had deteriorated to the point of being inaccessible for public touring and beyond the scope of feasible preservation.

Despite efforts to explore alternative preservation options, the museum ultimately determined that continued stewardship of the McLane was no longer sustainable. With the cold season approaching, the combination of time, weather, and structural decline made timely action necessary to ensure the safety of the vessel and the surrounding environment.

All historical artifacts and interpretive materials housed aboard the McLane were removed and preserved to ensure their continued educational and historical value. These artifacts will now be part of the broader collection at the USS Silversides Submarine Museum and shared with partner organizations who answered the call to preserve its memory: the USS Slater WWII Destroy-

er Escort (Albany, NY), the USS Croaker WWII US Submarine and USS The Sullivan’s WWII Destroyer (Buffalo Naval Park, Buffalo, NY), and the Buckley Old Engine Club (Buckley, MI).

“The McLane had been a symbol of service and strength for decades,” said Veronica Campbell, Executive Director of the USS Silversides Submarine Museum, in the release. “Though it was difficult to say goodbye, we were incredibly grateful to our community partners... (who) helped us navigate this transition with dignity and respect.”

Commissioned in 1927, the USCGC McLane served with distinction through multiple eras of Coast Guard history. Its presence at the museum since 1993 offered visitors a rare glimpse into life aboard a patrol vessel and played a vital role in advancing the museum’s mission to honor military service and educate future generations through immersive, hands-on experiences.

The USS Silversides remains committed to preserving maritime history and honoring the legacy of those who served. The departure of the McLane marked the end of an era, but also opened the door for new opportunities to expand and enhance the museum’s exhibits and educational programming, and to focus on the major preservation and fundraising efforts necessary to support the USS Silversides Submarine restoration over the next few years.

Delisting

projects for AOCs received $9.4 million from the Clean Michigan Initiative. Over the next 28 years, additional funding would come from the Great Lakes Legacy Act, the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative (GLRI), the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, and more.

All told, remediation and restoration took more than $84 million, including $67 million in federal funds, largely through the GLRI, and $17 million in state, local, and private contributions.

“For decades, our community has worked with partners in the nonprofit sector and every level of government to heal the wounds left by industrial pollution and to restore our treasured Muskegon Lake,” said Muskegon mayor Ken Johnson in the release. “Today’s delisting is not only an environmental victory but a testament to what’s possible when people come together with a shared vision for a healthier, more sustainable future.”

EGLE joined efforts

Historical Society to present American Dream story Oct. 16

The White Lake Area Historical Society will hold its last meeting of the year Thursday, Oct. 16 at 7 p.m. at the White Lake Senior Center, Ferry Street, Montague, Michigan. The public is invited to attend.

The evening’s program, “The Dalton Family: From Ireland to White Lake, 1830 to 1900,” will be presented by Mary Lynn Mason, great-great-granddaughter of pioneer settler and lumberman Peter Dalton. Mason is a sixth-generation Michigander and fifth-generation White Lake area resident.

Her presentation will tell the Dalton family’s immigrant story, from leaving Ireland in the early 1830s to establishing new lives in West Michigan. Their journey exemplifies the immigrant pursuit of the American Dream: a family working together, taking advantage of opportunities, and striving to create a better life in a new world while leaving a legacy for future generations.

Set in the context of Michigan’s early history and the rise and fall of the lumber era, the program will explore the challenges of traveling from Ireland to Michigan in the 1830s; early life in the White Lake area; the first 4th of July celebration in White Lake’s history; the clashing political forces behind the creation of

Muskegon County; the vital 19th-century ties between Michigan and Chicago; and the lumber industry on the White River.

While recounting the Dalton family’s story, Mason will provide historical insights into life in West Michigan during its formative years and how immigrant families helped shape the White Lake

with the EPA, local governments and tribes, and partners including Grand Valley State University (GVSU), the Muskegon Conservation District, the West Michigan Shoreline Regional Development Commission, and other federal agencies like the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

Federal, state, and local project partners remediated more than 190,000 cubic yards of contaminated sediment and restored approximately 134 acres of habitat and over 6,000 feet of shoreline including nearly 100 acres of open water and emergent wetlands, as well as habitat for fish and native plants. Partners also removed more than 110,000 tons of logging-era sawmill debris from the lake, restoring habitat for bottom-dwelling invertebrates, fish, and wildlife.

By 2024, each of Muskegon Lake’s beneficial use impairments, or BUIs, under the AOC

continued from page 1

program was formally removed. Signoff by the U.S. State Department on Sept. 26 made the delisting official. The investments are already paying dividends. According to a GVSU study, the remediation and restoration of Muskegon Lake is projected to increase local home values by nearly $8 million and boost the local recreation economy by $28 million annually. Muskegon already has seen a 19% increase in marina customers and a 45% increase in hotel room tax collected by the county. Overall, the projections anticipate a nearly six to one ratio of return on investment. More information is available at the EPA’s Muskegon Lake Area of Concern website.

Muskegon Lake is the eighth U.S. AOC to be delisted and the fourth in Michigan, after Deer Lake in the Upper Peninsula and White Lake along Lake Michigan were delisted in 2014 and the Lower Menominee River, shared with Wisconsin, was delisted in 2020.

community.

The program is free and open to the public. All are encouraged to attend and learn more about our shared history.

Those attending the meeting are encouraged to support the Senior Center by bringing donations of paper products: paper towels, toilet paper or napkins.

Saturday, Oct. 11

White Lake Pumpkinfest, 10 a.m.

For full schedule of events, check White Lake Area Chamber & Visitor's Bureau Facebook page.

Brian Fedewa performs @ Red Rooster Tavern, 8 p.m.

Monday, Oct. 13

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

Tuesday, Oct. 14

Baby Time @ White Lake Community Library, 9:30 a.m. Stories, songs and play time. Intended for babies ages 0-2 and their caregivers.

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

Steve Thielman performs @ Book

Community Calendar

Nook & Java Shop, 10 a.m. to noon.

Book discussion group meets @ White Lake Community Library, 5:30 p.m. Participants read a book of their choosing on this month's topic - historical figures - and report back to the group.

Pretty Fun trivia @ Book Nook & Java Shop, 6:15 p.m.

Wednesday, Oct. 15

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.

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

Thursday, Oct. 16

Adult Open Studio @ ACWL-Nuveen Center, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Bring

studio materials from home or explore available supplies in the classroom.

Original Dulcimer Players Club hosts its monthly acoustic jam @ VAC, 1-6 p.m. with a break at 3 p.m. All are welcome, and any acoustic instruments can join in the jam.

1-2-3 Play with Me @ White Lake Community Library, 5:30 p.m. Designed for caregivers and children, the program includes an early childhood specialist to answer parenting questions. Registration required @ wlclib.org.

White Lake Area Historical Society meets @ White Lake Senior Center. For more information, see page 2. Live trivia @ Pub One Eleven, 7

p.m.

Friday, Oct. 17

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!

White Lake Community Library 25th anniversary open house, 6-8 p.m. Featuring refreshments from The Gnarly Heifer, a brief program about the history of the library, and a few surprises.

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

Echoes of History: The Apple Cider Gang (pt. 1)

By Tom Eitniear Volunteer Contributor

On Wednesday, Dec. 21, 1877, a group of men from Montague pooled their resources and formed a “Partnership Association Limited” for the purpose of “drying/preserving fruit, and the manufacture of cider, jelly and vinegar” and named it the Montague Fruit Preserving Company. The list of stockholders was as follows:

Burrows & Jones (Frank E. Jones/ Charles E. Burrows), George H. Mason, George Klett, Thomas E. Phelan, George R. Hancock, Lafayette G. Ripley, William H. Lobdell, Stephen D. Shattuck, Robert Deymann, Gerhard Luehrs, William A. Rowe, John S. McCoughey, John F. Herren, Austin & Warnick (Warren A. Austin/Henry Warnick), and Peck & Gaynor (William Peck/Thomas Gaynor).

The managers of this partnership consisted of Frank E. Jones (Chairman), Warren A. Austin (Secretary), Lafayette G. Ripley (Treasurer), Thomas Phelan, and Stephen Shattuck. It

was understood by the stockholders that the extent and duration of the partnership was 20 years from the date of creation.

Burrows and Jones provided the property for the construction of the cider mill as part of their investment into the partnership. This two-acre property was primarily located on the north side of Buttermilk Creek in the Northwest quarter of the Southeast quarter of Section 20, Montague Township.

The cider mill was constructed on a plateau created partway down the bank to the creek. A dam was built on the creek, creating an impoundment that provided a water source for the steam engine that powered the mill.

The cider mill was in operation for only a couple of years before it was given a complete overhaul. New machinery was installed, including an evaporator, and the water pump and water storage tank were rearranged for more efficient use. This overhaul allowed a greater amount of work to be accomplished. Cider and evaporated apples were the main products, but apple

butter, jelly, syrup, wine and boiled cider were also produced. Custom work, such as grinding stock feed, was also available to customers.

Sometime during the year 1894

John Rutledge, a carpenter by trade, acquired majority ownership in the company and served as manager, continuing the production of cider, vinegar, apple butter, etc. The mill operated for several years under Mr. Rutledge, and in 1902 a couple of businessmen from Chicago by the names of Prager and Darlington visited the mill with

an interest in purchasing it. They were pleased with the mill but not its location, claiming that they would acquire the mill if a site could be procured near the lake. The businessmen proposed to add a canning facility to the cider mill factory if adequate property was found. The Montague Board of Trade met and passed a resolution that offered to the businessmen lakefront property that had been acquired by the village in condemnation proceedings. The board was hopeful, but the proposal did not materialize.

Craft-a-Palooza event coming to the library Oct. 27

By Virginia DeMumbrum Volunteer Contributor

Join us at the library for the Craft-aPalooza Adult Craft Challenge Monday, Oct. 27, at 5:30 p.m. You’ll have access to a wide assortment of leftover craft items from past library events - everything from beads and paint to ribbons, yarn, and more - along with basics like glue, scissors, and paper. Your challenge? You’ll have one hour to transform the materials of your choice into something extraordinary.

library make room for new supplies)! For more information and to register, visit wlclib.org/calendar or contact us at 231-894-9531.

How We Got Here - Part 3

By 1985, Bette Carlson was the director of the Whitehall City Library and she had begun hosting story hours and summer reading programs that drew large numbers of children and families to the library. Then in April 1996, during a particularly difficult economic time for the city, the city manager announced the library would be defunded and closed.

Whether you’re a seasoned crafter or a curious beginner, this event is all about exploration, play, and letting your creativity shine. After the crafting hour, participants will showcase their creations for voting and small prizes will be awarded in several fun categories.

Don’t miss out on this one-of-akind, fun-filled event. Register now to secure your spot—and get ready to craft your way to glory (and help the

Bette and her two part-time assistants (Kathy and Pam) were tasked with closing down the library, but they had other ideas. Aided by an outraged public and some strong library advocates, they began to look for a path forward. They found it in a new Michigan law, Public Act 24 of 1989, the District Library Establishment Act. This allowed a library to be formed through an agreement between local cities and townships and to be funded by a dedicated library millage.

A Library Citizens Committee was formed in May 1996, and this group worked tirelessly to save the library. Forming the district library turned

out to be a monumental undertaking, though. Numerous local municipalities were approached, with mixed results. After several townships that were initially interested backed out, it was a small cohort that approached the county library board for the necessary approval to create the new library district. The county library board denied them, because they wanted one cohesive county library system, and could not support the idea of an independent library district in the northern part of the county. The district library committee appealed to the County Board of Commissioners, and they were again turned down.

This was a dark day for Bette and the Library Citizens Committee, but they were a determined bunch. Tune in next week to find out what they tried next. Or come to the Anniversary Open House Friday, Oct. 17 from 6-8 p.m. and let Bette tell you herself!

FUN FACT: One newspaper article during the library’s struggle was titled “North vs. South - White Lake leaders frustrated over perceived role as county’s stepchild” and talked about a time in the 1960s when the White Lake area considered seceding from Muskegon County and joining Oceana County in-

stead.

Library Closed Oct. 13

The library will be closed all day Monday, Oct. 13, for staff training. We apologize for any inconvenience, but we will be open again Tuesday morning at 10 a.m. to serve you. And of course, you can use our online library services 24/7 from wherever you are, as long as you have an internet-connected device.

Special note for Cookbook Club members - your monthly meeting has been moved from the 13th to the 20th this month because of the closed day. The theme hasn’t changed, though, so plan to bring your Halloween recipe to the library Oct. 20 to share with the group.

DeMumbrum

Circa 1901 Cider Mill – Located on North Hill bounded by Stanton, Cook and Lincoln streets. • Photo Courtesy of Montague Museum

community

Lake Mirror Lake Mirror

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SPORTS

Montague's dramatic rally wins regional title

Wildcats ride depth to title, the 3rd in program history

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

Montague's state qualification was never really in question at Monday's Division 4 regional tournament at The Falls at Barber Creek course in Kent City. The Wildcats spent the whole day well clear of the score needed to place in the top three and earn a spot at the finals. However, they wanted a "mitten," the statewide slang for a championship trophy shaped like the state of Michigan.

That didn't seem likely for much of Monday's round - the Wildcats were down double-digit strokes to NorthPointe Christian at the halfway mark and were still down nine with six holes to play - but the Wildcats pulled it out with their signature depth, clinching the trophy on the very last hole of the round to win by one stroke, 391-392.

"Honestly, I’m still in shock that we pulled it out," Montague coach Phil Kerr said. "The course played incredibly tough, and we didn’t get off to a good start...Even with all the success we’ve had over the years, this is only our third regional title, and it’s incredibly hard to win 'mittens.' I’m so grateful for the memory this creates."

Montague advanced to the state finals, which will be played at Katke Golf Course in Big Rapids in a two-day event Oct. 17-18.

The Barber Creek course was a bear Monday; individual medalist Izzy Duflo of NorthPointe Christian shot an 89, her worst 18-hole score of the entire season.

The Wildcats' usual top player, Cadence Fox, wasn't immune, either, as she went through a rough early stretch that saw her go 18 over par over six holes. That swung the pressure to the rest of the lineup to pick her up, and Addi Smith and Brynlee Kessler answered the call.

Smith knocked in an early birdie as part of a six-hole stretch that saw her

play at only three over par, buoying her to an impressive third-place individual finish with a final score of 92. Kessler had some occasional struggles, but avoided any disastrous holes, which was good enough to propel her to a 93 and a fourth-place finish. Fox showed

some fortitude by bouncing back from a tough start and shooting a 45 on the back nine for a total score of 99, good for an eighth-place tie.

Oakridge rallies to stun Whitehall by a point

By Andy Roberts

White Lake Mirror Editor

WHITEHALL — After three years of Whitehall dominating the usually hypercompetitive Oakridge series, the Eagles gained some revenge with a dramatic comeback Friday night to spoil the Vikings' homecoming game.

Two long second-half drives by Oakridge ate up over 13 minutes of clock, and Whitehall's last gasp just missed in a 14-13 Vikings' defeat.

"They made a lot of great plays," Whitehall coach Tony Sigmon said. "They took it all the way down to where they took it. That's a credit to them. It's a physical game, and they had a little bit more in the tank than we did tonight."

There was little sign at halftime that the Eagles would be the team with more in the tank. Whitehall (4-2, 3-1 West Michigan Conference Lakes) had largely controlled the first half and led 13-0 at the break after quarterback Cole Essebaggers made some excellent plays to spearhead touchdown drives.

The Vikings' first scoring drive, late in the second quarter, saw Essebaggers use his mobility to pull off two spectacular plays - first converting a 3rd-and-18 situation by scrambling for the first down, then a couple of plays later escaping a sack multiple times and finding Ayden Mendoza with a deep pass to the 1-yard line. Liam Leeke then cashed in with a short touchdown run.

After Whitehall got a quick threeand-out to get the ball back before halftime, Essebaggers was able to use his emerging strength as a deep ball passer to find Corde Anderson for a 37-yard score to get his team a two-score lead. The Vikings missed the point after, which would ultimately loom large but seemed a minor setback at the time.

Essebaggers threw for 121 yards and ran for 63 more in the game.

"I think Cole's doing a great job, and he continued to do a great job tonight," Sigmon said.

Even after Oakridge's long scoring drives - and an interception when a mis-

communication with his receivers saw Essebaggers lob a deep ball that the Eagles' Tremaine Stevenson chased down for a pick - Whitehall still had one final chance with under 30 seconds to go.

After a scramble and a penalty moved

unfor-

Ludington too much for 'Cats in close match

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

MONTAGUE — It doesn't get much closer than Tuesday's West Michigan Conference Lakes battle in Montague, where the first three games were decided by the minimum two points before visiting Ludington was able to pull away somewhat and edge the Wildcats, 25-23, 24-26, 25-23, 25-19.

It was the Wildcats' Pink Out night in support of cancer research, which brought donations and a good crowd to the Montague arena. Coach Gretchen Schneider said

it was a good preview of what to expect when the Wildcats host the district tournament in November - and it also taught some lessons. Notably, Schneider felt the players got caught up in the atmosphere a bit and played at a faster tempo than they're comfortable with, which played into the hands of the Orioles.

"You've got to play your game, and I noticed quite often in a few of the sets, the tempo picked up to their speed," Schneider

Montague falls short continued on page 6

Montague's golf team celebrates a regional championship Monday in Kent City. The Wildcats rallied to beat NorthPointe Christian by one stroke. From left are assistant coach Maddie Kaminski, Molly Mulder, Marguerite O'Connell, Cadence Fox, Addi Smith, Brynlee Kessler and head coach Phil Kerr. • Courtesy Photo

the Vikes within deep-ball touchdown range for the final play, Essebaggers ran to his right and threw a pass that

Whitehall's Corde Anderson tries to pull in a pass from teammate Cole Essebaggers while Oakidge's Aiden Hruskach looks on during Friday's game at Whitehall. Anderson had 70 yards receiving and a touchdown on the night, but the Vikings lost a close game 14-13. • Andy Roberts/Mirror

Montague's Reagan Cederquist (2) tries to get an attack past Ludington's Lilly Slater (7) and Madilyn Lynn during Tuesday's match at Montague. The Wildcats lost, 3-1. • Andy Roberts/Mirror

Montague impressive on offense in victory

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

Montague has displayed resilience several times throughout the 2025 season, but Friday night at North Muskegon, the Wildcats also showed off their talent and improvement, ripping off several big plays and downing the Norsemen 39-26.

The key sequence of the game was in the third quarter when Montague, holding a 26-6 lead, surrendered a Norsemen scoring drive and then fumbled the ball away, which North Muskegon recovered and took back for a touchdown. Suddenly it was 26-18, and the specter of past defeats hung in the air.

However, this time the Wildcats (24) were having none of it, and quickly responded with a touchdown drive that ended with a six-yard run from quarterback Eli Petersen.

"Sometimes these guys make me pull my hair out, but we usually keep playing," Montague coach Phil Koops chuckled. "There was a bit of time in the third quarter when things could've gotten more interesting than they needed to, but after the mishap we squashed that pretty quickly."

Petersen has had his struggles at times adjusting to the Wildcats' new option-based offensive playbook, but Friday saw his efforts in the system paying off. Not only did he run for over 100 yards, Koops said, but so too did each of

his two main backs, Devlin Dean and Cole Moss.

"When you want to run the triple option, it's good to have all three of those guys have that kind of rushing yards," Koops said. "That's a cool and unique stat that doesn't happen very often. You might get two over 100 sometimes, but three is pretty neat."

Moss being back from an injury that kept him out of the Ludington game the week prior added some needed explosiveness to the Wildcat backfield, and he showed he's no worse for wear by ripping off a 53-yard scoring run early in the third quarter.

"He hit a counter, and there wasn't a lot of room, but he has a great acceleration gear and he split a couple defend-

ers and went the distance," Koops said.

The longest scoring run, though, belonged to Devlin Dean, who took the first Montague snap 91 yards to the house after the Wildcats had gotten a fourth-down stop the previous play.

"For us to get a stop and get a score on the first play from scrimmage, you obviously want to start hot like that, but especially for the mentality of our kids," Koops said.

The win was especially impressive given North Muskegon's success in the recent past; since the West Michigan Conference split into the Rivers and Lakes divisions in 2022, the Norsemen have not lost to a Rivers opponent. They'd also decisively beaten Montague in the previous three meetings.

FHN breaks Rocket resistance in 2nd half of loss

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

Reeths-Puffer hung tough with Forest Hills Northern early on its homecoming night Friday, but the Huskies were able to pull away and knock off R-P 40-27.

The Rockets (2-4, 1-2 O-K Green Conference) trailed only 13-6 early in the third quarter after Cole Piper's touchdown run, but FHN responded with a scoring drive, a squib kickoff that it recovered, and another touchdown

drive, and R-P was unable to get closer after that.

The visiting Huskies scored late in the second quarter and early in the third to go ahead 13-0, breaking open a game the Rockets had to that point succeeded in slowing down. However, despite FHN pulling away later, coach Cody Kater said he felt his team performed better in the second half.

"I felt like we executed better in the second half than in the first half," Kater said. "We got into more of our game

plan in the second half...Overall, we're excited about the growth we're seeing at some positions, but we have to find a way to make them connect."

A lot of the Huskies' success was the result of their size advantage up front. Although Kater felt the team did well to execute a game plan focused around making FHN quarterback Owen Ostipow use his arm to beat the Rockets rather than making plays with his legs, eventually that size advantage bore fruit. The Huskies had 272 yards rush-

ing and 363 overall.

"The kids executed some of it, but when they got in the heavy personnel and they were able to bully us, we were just outmanned," Kater said. "We had a hard time shutting it down in the second half. They had extra pounds on us and they were pretty technical too, and did a good job executing."

Braylon Swain was effective through the air, going 10-of-12 for 127 yards and three touchdowns. Piper ran for 61 yards, and Cal Millis posted 10 tackles.

Mona Shores too much for Rockets on the court

By Andy Roberts

White Lake Mirror Editor

MUSKEGON — Reeths-Puffer hoped that last Thursday might create an opportunity to make some noise against one of the O-K Green Conference's beastly top quartet, but a slow start for the Rocket attack snowballed on them and led to a three-game defeat, 257, 25-16, 25-9.

It took very little time for the visiting Sailors to take command of the match behind top-hitting sisters Maddie and Laynie Russell, and they grabbed an early 10-1 lead. The Rockets tried to stem the tide by calling an early timeout, but errors and the Sailors' offensive efficiency created a bad situation for R-P.

"I think that flat start hurt us, but it even seemed like in warmups we were a little bit off," Rockets' coach Justin Birr said. "We have to come out with more energy from the start. We just never quite had that. That was probably the least energetic group I've seen from us this season, which says something about who our opponent is, how they can kind of get into our heads sometimes."

Birr said his Rockets (15-13, 1-3 O-K Green) are not often intimidated by conference opponents despite how good many of them are, but because of Shores' geographic proximity and the experience many of the players on both sides have playing with and against one another, Shores sometimes is the exception. It doesn't help that the Russells are 6-2, and the Rockets simply don't have anyone that can match that physical advantage.

"I don't think we can simulate how tall they are in practice," Birr said. "I think that just freaked us

out too much. You've got to have that mentality of, you're going to get blocked. Then, you've got to overcome that. They're going to block more than anybody else because of how tall they are."

R-P played much better in game two, limiting the errors and forcing Mona Shores to win it outright. Despite a 6-0 serving run by Kate Tindall that got the Rockets to within 21-16 and included a couple of aces, the Sailors were able to do it.

Game three was all Shores from the start, and the Rockets were left to wonder why they weren't able to compete as closely with their rivals as they did at an invitational in Fruitport, where Shores won a tighter two-game match.

"We definitely had higher expectations than what we showed tonight," Birr said. "We definitely didn't show our full potential tonight...They didn't do anything different (than the match in Fruit-

port). We just didn't execute."

No Rocket managed more than four kills, with Abby Machinski and Peyton Radel tying for the team lead. Tindall had nine assists, and Carlee Bowen recorded eight digs.

In an ideal world, Birr said, R-P would have some tournaments and quads to build confidence and bounce back mentally from the defeat, but the Rockets will have no choice but to do it a different way; their next two matches are against two more league titans, Byron Center and Jenison.

"It's almost like, forget this night," Birr said. "I mean, be mad about it internally. Think about your game and your play, but... don't be angry at your teammates. Mentally, shove this aside, work on a couple things. We'll work on some things in practice, but I think to overcome it, we've just got to find some more success in our next matches."

Sports in Brief

Soccer

Volleyball Tennis

Golf

Cross Country

Near above, Reeths-Puffer's Kate Tindall (left) sets the ball as Peyton Radel lines up to go for an attack during last Thursday's match against Mona Shores. Above right, Reeths-Puffer's Annabelle Darke goes to the floor to keep a ball alive. R-P dropped a 3-0 decision. • Andy Roberts/Mirror

Regional golf

"Addi Smith was incredible today, Brynlee Kessler was right behind her, and Cadence flipped a switch and turned it on when she made the turn for the back nine," Kerr said. "It was just another testament to how deep this team is. For Addi and Brynlee to carry us when Cadence didn’t have it shows exactly why this group is so special."

Molly Mulder's 105 closed out Wildcat scoring, and Marguerite O'Connell shot a 110. On a day when only 10 players in the entire field broke 100, those scores were more than good enough for what the Wildcats needed.

As the team chipped away at NorthPointe Christian's lead down the stretch, Kerr said, the players maintained belief they would bring home the championship, and executed with big shots to make it happen.

"One through five, these girls have made incredible strides in every part of their games," Kerr said. "We’re going to enjoy this one and reflect on what’s been an amazing season."

At the same time, the Wildcats have their eyes on more. The previous two Montague teams to win regional championships both followed it up with state titles. This squad wants to keep that streak going.

"We know we’ve got work to do," Kerr said. "We’ve got about a week and a

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half to clean some things up. If we want to consider ourselves serious contenders, we have to play better, one through five, than we have the last two weeks. I’m excited to get back to work tomorrow, celebrate this win for a couple of days, and then grind through the next stretch to make the most of the opportunity in front of us."

Rockets' McCollum, Ambler reach state meet

Reeths-Puffer came up just short of its team goal of qualifying for the state finals at Tuesday's Division 2 regional meet at its home course of Lincoln Golf Club. However, for two Rocket individuals - Sophia McCollum and Olivia Ambler - the season will continue at the state meet.

McCollum enjoyed another excellent round and earned regional medalist honors with a round of 78 that included a pair of birdies. McCollum was a model of consistency during the round, doing worse than a bogey on only one hole and shooting a 39 on each half of the course. She went to a playoff with Forest Hills Northern's Charlie Payne to determine the regional medalist and won it by birdieing the first playoff hole with a 15-foot putt.

“Sophia had another great day,"

Whitehall football

tunately took Anderson a few yards out of the end zone, though the senior did catch the ball.

"They're a great football team," Sigmon said of Oakridge. "I would expect nothing less from them. Tim Parker is an excellent coach, a very proud tradition. How many years have they not missed the playoffs? I can't even remember, so that's exactly what I expected to see from them.

"I really feel like our kids battled to the end. It was just a physical, hardnosed football game that I expect any time we play these guys. Anybody that doesn't expect that is crazy."

Oakridge's offense, so dormant most of the night against Whitehall, was able to grind out a scoring drive that took 5:29 off the clock in the third quarter, ending in a 26-yard scoring run by Jordan Guerrero-McGrady. Then, after forcing a Whitehall punt, the Eagles took 7:33 off the clock with another long drive. Cody Manzo made a good defensive play to make a tackle on a screen pass and force a 3rd-and-12 at the 15-yard line, but after a timeout,

R-P coach Matt Pallett said. "She was great from tee to green. She struggled with her putter a little bit, but made some great putts down the stretch and on the first playoff hole when she needed to.”

Ambler eked out the third and last individual qualifying spot for state, roaring back from a rough start - she was 12 over par after nine holes - with a 40 on the back nine to end with an 88, which placed her sixth overall. She edged out two Northview players by one stroke to reach state.

“I am so happy for Olivia Ambler," Pallett said. "She has worked really hard to put herself in this position. Even when a little self-doubt creeped in early in her round, she was able to find a way to persevere to get to the state finals.”

Unfortunately, the team didn't have quite enough success to qualify together, posting a score of 385 - just two strokes shy of the final team qualifying spot. The Rockets were fifth, with Greenville edging Northview by tiebreaker to claim the third position at 383.

Ella Voorhies shot a career-best score of 91, making a birdie along the

way after narrowly missing a holein-one on the par-3 11th hole. Keeley Cole rounded out team scoring with a 128, and Ava Gibbs shot a 129. Cole and Gibbs are the only two players in Tuesday's round who will graduate next spring.

“Regionals is a gut-wrenching and emotional day," Pallett said. "I am sad for my team today. We had a great shot of making it to the state finals as a team ,but just could not get it over the finish line. I am very proud of them and love them all.”

Shafer makes it to state, Vikings 4th at regional Whitehall's team state qualifying streak ended at seven Wednesday as the Vikings missed the cut by just two strokes at the Division 3 regional in Fremont.

The Vikings' Riley Shafer did earn an individual spot at the state meet, but Whitehall's team score of 391 was two shots behind Chippewa Hills for the third and final team position.

Shafer finished fifth overall on the day, shooting a 91. She was 10 over par on each half of the 18-hole Waters Edge course.

Kelsie McClure finished with a 94, earning 10th place and finishing just one stroke from making it to state herself. Morgan Garcia capped her successful Viking career with a 99, and Avarie Bentz's 107 closed out Whitehall scoring. Ryleigh Hershey shot a 113.

Montague falls short

said. "That's not a tempo that we're comfortable with. We like it at a slower tempo. I asked the girls to slow it down, and they didn't. They tried to, but I don't know if they just haven't had the experience yet of controlling the game themselves. A lot of times they want to see how the opponent is going to play, and then they play to that tempo, and you just can't do that."

Montague (6-15-1, 2-2 WMC Lakes) got off to quick starts in each of the first three games, sparked by some very good serving. The team's game plan was to serve more conservatively than usual, Schneider said, knowing the match was likely to be close.

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Oakridge perfectly executed a pass on which Jayden Dailey leaked out of the backfield and caught an open 15-yard scoring toss from Logen Huston.

The Viking offense struggled to move the ball in the second half, being denied on fourth down at the Eagles' 15-yard line on their first drive of the third quarter and never getting that close again.

It was a disheartening loss for Whitehall, but one it has no choice but to rebound from. A huge clash with a Ludington team that's routed four straight league opponents awaits next week, but the Vikings could still move back into a first-place tie in the WMC Lakes with a win.

"We regroup," Sigmon said of the Vikings' next step. "We have the best Monday practice you can possibly have."

Liam Leeke ran for 69 yards for Whitehall, and Corde Anderson had 70 yards receiving on four catches. Hunter Peterson posted 11 tackles defensively, and Colten Kyser and Anderson had eight each, with Anderson adding two pass breakups.

"In games like this, I don't want them to really place a serve," Schneider said. "There's 900 square feet over there. Serve the ball in and let our defense work. If you're going to serve the ball out of bounds, it gives them one point, and it gives them the ball. It does nothing for us. In close games when you're down by two points, you miss five serves, that's the whole game."

Abbi Tallquist helped build an early 10-3 lead for the 'Cats in game one, and Emalee McGee added to it later, putting Montague up as many as 10 points. However, Ludington stormed back, taking advantage of a strong block and some Montague miscues to steal the opener.

Undeterred, the 'Cats raced out to another lead early in game two; this time it was Saige Perales at the service line as Montague went ahead 13-7. Again Ludington came back, and Oriole server Lilly Slater delivered three aces in a row at one point. The game was tied at 21, 23 and 24 before a pair of Ludington errors gave Montague the win and tied the match at a game each.

"I give it to the team," Schneider said. "They did a fantastic job staying with them. I think that Ludington and us are pretty evenly matched. It was

almost who made the fewest serving errors (was going to win)."

Game three wasn't much different than the first two, with the Wildcats going ahead (5-1), Ludington coming back, and the two teams battling down the stretch. Montague led 21-15 and 23-22, but the Orioles scored consecutive aces and a block to win. Ludington then led throughout game four.

The Wildcats put a lot of effort into the close match, and Schneider said her team left everything on the court - physically and mentally. McGee in particular saw a lot of action from her setter spot, not just from her usual duties, but also by facing some highspeed Oriole attacks. She was hit in the face at least twice with kill attempts from Ludington, but was never fazed.

"I think that they're spent right now," Schneider said. "They had to overcome some mental hurdles tonight just to stay with them. I think they did that quite well, so that's an improvement that we've been working on, to stay positive, stay in the games, don't give it up."

Tallquist and McGee each had four aces for Montague, and Gentry Knop posted 28 digs. Annelyse Schneider had six blocks, and Reagan Cederquist chipped in seven kills.

McCollum

Whitehall's Cole Essebaggers tries to chase down Oakridge's Jordan Guerrero-McGrady during Friday's WMC Lakes game at Whitehall. Guerrero-McGrady sprinted in for a touchdown on this play to help the Eagles knock off Whitehall, 14-13.

• Andy Roberts/Mirror

Montague's Reagan Cederquist (2) and Annelyse Schneider leap for a block attempt against Ludington's Madilyn Lynn during Tuesday's match at Montague. The Wildcats lost, 3-1. • Andy Roberts/Mirror

Montague homecoming activities set for next week

Montague High School will celebrate homecoming week Oct. 13-17 with a series of dress-up days at school, leading up to a day of activities Friday, Oct. 17 that will culminate in the crowning of the king and queen at halftime of the football game against Manistee.

The dress-up day themes begin Monday with Mishap Monday, where students are encouraged to pretend to have some sort of injury. Tuesday will feature a two-sided theme, with some students dressing like they are headed to a country club, while others dress as if they are country bumpkins.

Wednesday is Dress Like Your Favorite Teacher Day, and Thursday will see students fit into the homecoming week theme of board games by dressing up like their favorite game.

Montague's homecoming court will be part of next Friday's celebrations at the high school. The court consists of, from left, front row, Max Dyer and Sophia Sanchez; second row, Kellen VanSickle and Emily Earnest; third row, Collin Flynn and Hallie VanTuyl; fourth row, Noah Raeth, Jenna Erickson, Chloe Scott, Nora Wacholz, Jenna Woller, Gentry Knop and Elle Moran; fifth row, Ben Hayes, Fletcher Thommen, Oliver Evans, Cole Herremans, Dylan Bailey, Caleb Schmidt and Jayden Onstott. Not pictured are Elijah Eilers and Ayla Adams. • Andy Roberts/Mirror

Friday's dress-up theme is the school colors of blue and white, and the day will also include the all-school pep assembly in the morning. The homecoming parade begins at 6 p.m. at the Oehrli Elementary School building and will end at the high school.

Saturday, Oct. 18 will cap the homecoming activities with the homecoming dance, from 8-11 p.m. at the high school.

ACWL-Nuveen purchases its Colby St. building

In July of this year, the Arts Council of White Lake-Nuveen Center (ACWL-Nuveen) purchased their building at 106 E. Colby Street in downtown Whitehall. For an organization that is almost 40 years old, this was a monumental step and clear sign the ACWL-Nuveen is here to stay.

You may not have realized the ACWL-Nuveen was previously renting the current space, but it's been doing so since late 2014. Prior to the current location, it was located in Montague, where Figgs Boutique is now. The Arts Council of White Lake was started in 1986 to promote local arts happenings and to fill art programing gaps left by dwindling state art budgets. It grew to include a gallery in 1999 and an education space, the Nuveen Community Center for the Arts, in 2002. Today, the ACWL-Nuveen is home to a retail gallery featuring over 35 Michigan artists, an exhibition gallery which rotates through seven art exhibits each

year, and classroom spaces that offer visual art and music opportunities for all ages. Along with participating in countless community events, the ACWL-Nuveen also hosts the popular free summer concert series at the Montague Bandshell.

Looking to the future, the ACWL-Nuveen will prioritize making necessary improvements to the building, such as a new roof and air conditioning units. Once those items are complete, the next step will be a renovation to enhance day-to-day function for staff and guests and to provide more, improved classroom space.

The ACWL-Nuveen staff and board are grateful to everyone who has made it possible for the organization to be where it is today. The council will continue to take steps to further improve and enhance the arts programming it provides in the White Lake and greater West Michigan area.

Puppets take the stage for Playhouse events Oct. 17-18

The Playhouse at White Lake will host two separate puppet-centered educational events over the Oct. 17-18 weekend.

Instructor Joey Emory of the My Air Productions Puppet Barn will provide a two-hour workshop Friday, Oct. 17 from 5:30-7:30 p.m., teaching students about marionette movement and construction, as well as how to build a marionette show. Students will have the opportunity to build their own marionette, which they can use for themselves and/ or create their own show for family and friends.

The workshop is open to all ages, with parents encouraged to participate. Short videos will be filmed of each stu-

dent with their marionettes to cap the workshop.

Registration is available online at the Playhouse website, theplayhouseatwhitelake.org, for $25 and includes all supplies. Spaces are limited to allow for more intensive instruction. Parents may register students 10 and up to participate themselves or students of any age with an adult building partner.

After learning about puppetry, participants are invited back to the Playhouse Saturday, Oct. 18 at 2 p.m. for Emory's own performance of The Frog Prince. Tickets to the show, which is intended for all ages, are $10-$15 for students and adults.

Montague Class of 1965 readying for 60th reunion

The Montague High School Class of 1965 is preparing for its 60-year reunion, which will take place Saturday, Oct. 25 from 5-7 p.m. at Gary's Restaurant in Whitehall.

The event will begin with registration and socializing at 5, with a 5:45 p.m. dinner scheduled and a 6:15 short program, which will end with some time remaining to further socialize.

To ensure a spot, alumni co-chairs Valerie Brazaski, Tom George, and Ken Mahoney request that participants RSVP with their entrée choice by Sunday, Oct. 19. Attendees may RSVP to Kathy Pelleran Mahoney by calling or sending a text message to 517-887-0580. Early responses are appreciated to aid

in planning.

Entrée choices are baked tilapia ($24), barbecue grilled chicken ($21) and hamburger steak with grilled onions ($21), and each will be served with roasted potatoes, a seasonal vegetable and a side salad. Event co-chairs will provide a cake for dessert, and there will be a cash bar. Payments will be taken at the event; prices do not include tax or gratuity.

“Join us for an evening of reminiscing, laughter, and reconnecting with the Montague High School Class of 1965," Ken Mahoney said. "Let’s make this 60year milestone a night to remember. Please share this invitation with others from the Class of 1965.”

Muskegon County confirms

2nd measles case

Muskegon County, with the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, confirmed this week that the county has its second measles case since June, and Michigan's 28th this year.

The case was confirmed to be ailing a visitor to Trinity Health Urgent Care on Sherman Boulevard in Muskegon Thursday, Oct. 2 from 3:45-7 p.m. Anyone who was there during that time frame should monitor for symptoms through Oct. 23 and stay home if they develop.

Measles is highly contagious and can linger in the air for up to two hours after an infected person leaves. Symptoms — rash, fever, cough, runny nose, and red, watery eyes — usually appear

7–14 days after exposure.

“The risk of illness is always present, and we each have a responsibility to protect our health,” said county health officer Kathy Moore in a press release. “With record measles cases nationwide and declining vaccination rates, more people are at risk.”

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends routine measles vaccination. Unvaccinated individuals should consult with their healthcare provider. Anyone unsure of their vaccination status can call 231724-1220 for help.

Weekly updates on the status of measles statewide are available on the Michigan Measles Dashboard at michigan.gov/measles.