The Oceana Echo - Volume 3, Issue 24, November 7, 2025 by theoceanaecho

Honor & Valor

U.S. Coast Guard veteran Lori Hogston still serving today

By Sharon Hallack

The Oceana Echo Community Correspondent

United States Coast Guard Veteran (19811985) and American Legion member since 2012, Lori (Huls) Hogston of Shelby Township grew up in Benona Township, part of a large extended family with deep roots in Oceana County.

Following her service as a “coastie,” Hogston served as an Oceana County Sheriff Dispatcher from 1986 to 1991, and later as the Muskegon County Central Dispatch Supervisor from 1992 to 2011.

How Hogston came to work and serve both Oceana and Muskegon counties in these positions could quite possibly be traced back to her time with the United States Coast Guard. Hogston’s first assignment after basic training was in search and rescue at Point Allerton Station in Hull, Massachusetts (a sub-unit of Sector Boston).

Hogston explained, “In Point Allerton, crews worked from three different types of boats. The ‘buzzer boat,’ or quick response boat, was used in emergency situations, such as a boat fire, sinking boat or a medical emergency onboard a watercraft. The ‘work boats’ were used in non-emergency situations, for towing in boats that had stalled or for rescuing the local lobster fishermen who had become entangled in their lines. The third was a ‘motor lifeboat,’ a 44-foot boat used in heavy seas and designed in such a way that when it overturned in heavy seas, it would right itself in a matter of seconds.”

When asked if she had worked in any hurricanes, Hogston shared, “No hurricanes, but plenty of nor'easters. Nor’easters come with heavy rain, high waves/tides, wind and flooding. We would get mayday calls, and we had to go out no matter what.”

Motor lifeboats were manned by a minimum of four crewmen, Hogston went on. The coxswain who drove the boat, two crew members strapped into a cage directly behind the coxswain, and the engineer who rode below and was in charge of keeping the motor running. “When you felt the boat going over, you took a quick breath, and in a matter of seconds you were upright again,” she said with a smile.

On a normal day, every coast guardsman at base would take turns working different rotations and responsibilities on base. “My favorite rotation was the radio room,” said Hogston. “Everybody took a turn, but a lot of the guys didn’t care for it. We were allowed to switch out duty stations of the day, and I really liked

getting to do more time in the radio room. I liked being on the boats, but in the radio room I was in charge. The radio room was always busy. It was fast-paced. It also overlooked the boathouse and what was called ‘the gut,’ a deep channel between an island and the shoreline. From there we were able to keep an eye on all the boating and shipping traffic coming and going.”

One memorable (and historical) experience Hogston was a part of during her service in Point Allerton was on Jan. 23, 1982, when World Airways Flight 30 landed at the Logan International Airport in Boston, hit black ice and ran off the end of the runway. Even though the event occurred 43 years ago, in retelling the story, Hogston was able to remember details like it was yesterday. Her love of radio room operations and her ability to organize logistics and record the time stamps, all while juggling numerous calls, came in very handy in the hours following the accident.

“I was off-duty that night when I heard the first buzzer. At the sound of the first buzzer, everyone assigned to the emergency response boat (buzzer boat) went straight to the boathouse. When the second buzzer went off, that meant another workboat was also being deployed. When the third buzzer went off, everyone knew it was a catastrophic emergency and we were all needed, whether on or off duty. Each boat needed an engineer, but the third engineer was working the radio room. That workboat couldn’t leave until he was on it, so I took over the radio room…literally in my pajamas! The phones were ringing off the hook as I was busily

taking notes and writing down every who, what, when and where in the ledger. We didn’t have computers, like they do today.

“Later my CO (Commanding Officer), in reviewing everything I’d recorded during the event, told me he’d never seen such detailed notes. He ended up taking my notes to Group Boston to record the accident timeline, assist in documentation of the accident for all departments that responded, and recreate the event timeline for training purposes. Working that event really put me on the path to my future life work.

“Later that year I was promoted to 3rd class petty officer and sent to Air Station San Diego, where I was assigned to work under the current Aviation Supply Storekeeper. I was supposed to learn the job from him. However, shortly after I arrived, he needed to take a leave of absence, and I became the lead. It was the era of the Falcon Jet, and all of the parts and machinery related to construction and repair of the jets had to be inventoried and kept track of. I was able to set up a system that was efficient and easily understandable to track high-dollar parts for our aircraft. I had a natural knack for the job. It was a man’s world at the time,

so it was amazing to be a woman doing this type of work; I loved it.”

For the past nine years, Hogston has been involved in the Gordon Bates Post No. 30 American Legion in Shelby. Recently she was named the post’s historian, a position responsible for recording post happenings and archiving them for posterity. Given her past organizational experience and skill, this new role should suit her well.

Along with her involvement at the Shelby American Legion, Hogston has also become involved with the Michigan Women Veterans Weekend held in Oceana County each September.

According to the group’s website, the weekend was, “...started as a pilot program by local veterans and the Western Michigan S.A.I.L. club to see if experiential activities (such as sailing) combined with artistic expression could support healing from traumatic experiences and PTSD.”

Hogston has had the honor of helping to organize the event the past two years. This year, over 30 women veterans from all over the United States traveled to West Michigan to enjoy the weekend retreat, Hogston said. Some have served stateside; others have served overseas in such places

as Afghanistan, Bosnia, Granada and Vietnam. The fun and meaningful activities give the women a chance to meet or reconnect with other veterans, share stories of their work and accomplishments, as well as further process any emotional trauma they may be working through.

“Saving lives was what drew me into the Coast Guard in the first place. And helping others became a big part of my full-time work after my military service. It is still gratifying to be able to help my fellow veterans through the Legion and the Women's Veteran Retreat organization in my retirement,” Hogston concluded.

Please visit https:// womenveteransweekend.org/ for more information about next year’s Women’s Veterans Retreat.

In addition, any veteran, family member, friend or supporter is invited to reach out to any one of the local veterans organizations (Hart or Shelby American Legion posts, Hart or Pentwater Veteran of Foreign Wars posts, Marine Corps League in Pentwater or the Department of Veterans Affairs at the county services building in Hart) to find out how they can be more involved, support local veterans or obtain more information about the many helpful programs and services offered.

1982 at Point Allerton, Lori Hogston (right) and fellow coastie on inflatable response boat.

PHOTOGRAPHEr: Nancy Reschke

Dena & Sam Saran Family Fund Editor: Earl & Linda Peterson

Pentwater students honor veterans

By AnnaMae Bush

The Oceana Echo Community Correspondent

Pentwater students will host a Veterans’ assembly followed by a breakfast for veterans and their guests on Nov. 11 as they have done for more than the past 20 years.

The program is organized by the student council, and council president Maggie Jorrison said, “We try to involve as many of the students as possible. I open the program with a welcome from the student council. Then the kindergarteners hold flags and recite the Pledge of Allegiance. After the band plays the national anthem, student council members share a poem. Students in grades 1-3 make cards for the veterans, and the 6th graders this year are making paper flowers. Our cafeteria staff prepares and serves a special breakfast while students mingle and speak with the veterans.”

Jorrison said she thinks it is so important to celebrate and thank every veteran for the sacrifices they have made to serve our country. And that’s true for those who served in war as well as those who have served during times

of peace.

A few years ago, Mackenna Hasil was president of student council, and today she serves in the military. She asserted the proudest moment of her senior year was not winning an athletic championship, but in honoring veterans on Veterans Day and seeing how much they appreciated being honored.

Kelly Sisung is the faculty mentor for the student council. She reported, “There are some new readings this year, one of which was suggested by a community member. Our 5th grade teacher, Donna Miller, selected a song to be sung by our elementary students, and a popular local duo, Canopy Space, is also performing a piece.”

Although invitations have normally been sent to addresses supplied by the Pentwater VFW post, this year the mailing was expanded to include two additional VFW posts in Oceana County.

Sisung said that over 75 veterans and guests attended last year. Jorrison shared they are planning on 70-90 veterans and guests at this year’s event. Veterans who wish to come are asked to register for breakfast attendance by calling 231-869-4100 ext. 230.

Area meetings for veterans

Shelby American Legion meetings are held the first Monday of each month; dinner is at 6 p.m., and the meeting is at 7 p.m. Contact Darrell Hansen for more information at 231-670-3170.

Hart American Legion meetings are held the second Monday of each month from November through April at the Hart Community Center at 7 p.m. Contact Kim Loncar for more information at (231) 873-3615.

Hart VFW meetings are held the second Thursday of each month at 7 p.m. Contact Steve Fell for more information at 231-873-1727.

Pentwater VFW meetings are held the third Thursday of each month at 7:30 p.m. Contact Jim Carlson for more information at 231-873-5039.

Hart VFW's new sign

Members of the Gordon Bates American Legion Post #30 in Shelby, along with local volunteers, retire non-serviceable American flags during a formal ceremony Oct. 6. • Amanda Dodge/Echo

Nichole Kleiner unanimously chosen as new Hart City Manager

By Claire Marshall

The Oceana Echo Community Correspondent

The City of Hart selected its new city manager Tuesday, Oct. 28. Though they met with three impressive and qualified candidates, council members unanimously agreed that their top pick was Nichole Kleiner.

Kleiner has been interim city manager since August, following the resignation of Rob Splane, as well as serving as Hart’s Economic and Community Development (HECD) director. She was instrumental to Hart’s establishment of the forthcoming West Shore Community College’s satellite campus.

There were several factors that council members cited as setting Kleiner apart from the other two candidates. Primarily her existing investment in the city as displayed in her service on previous city boards and her investment in its economic growth, not only as HECD director, but also as a local business owner alongside her husband.

Kleiner also has the support of the community and city staff. Council Member Dean Hodges said, “I’ve heard from several people from the community

and from staff that they are fully behind Nichole, and I am as well.”

A public meet-and-greet for final candidates was held as part of the selection process provided by Double Haul Solutions, with whom the city contracted to assist in the process. The event took place Oct. 23, prior to the final round of interviews the following morning.

Council members acknowledged their partiality to Kleiner due to their familiarity with her as a city employee and interim city manager; however, as Council Member Cat Burillo explained, even exercising objectivity, Kleiner remained the highest-performing candidate. “I think she demonstrates integrity, courage, compassion, resilience and perseverance. She is passionate about our community. She is a team player, but she also demonstrates the ability to take on the lead when necessary.”

When considering his choice, Council Member Andrew Mullen spoke of Kleiner's obvious excitement when faced with a tough question or challenge, “you see her eyes just light up and she’s like ‘Ooh, something else I can fix…’ and bringing that kind of enthusiasm, that’s a good quality to have.”

Mullen also discussed the efficiency in allowing Kleiner to continue the work she’s put forward in her interim role - “these last two months, it feels like there’s momentum picking up… it feels like we’re gaining momentum and we will be going places, and to switch that again just as we’re trying to get that ball

rolling seems, to me, to be a bad choice.”

Of the final decision, there was little deliberation other than further agreement on Nichole’s qualifications for the role. The council voted unanimously to offer Nichole Kleiner the position of city manager and begin negotiations for her contract.

Also held at the council meeting were the second readings and adoptions of new ordinances. Zoning Ordinance Section 1246.02 allows the development of more diverse housing options, namely, three to four residential units in one building. The second ordinance would establish clear permitting and operating standards for all food trucks operating on city property, holding long-term and short-term trucks to the same standards. Both ordinances were approved unanimously by the council.

Also granted was an easement amendment with Hart Solar and the acceptance of a bid from Great Lakes Engineering Group for mandatory underwater bridge inspection. The latter was accepted despite being the only bid for the project, however, the council said they felt comfortable expediting the process as GLEG has performed the inspection in previous years, and because there was not much time remaining in the year before water temperatures would render diving unsafe.

Due to Veteran's Day falling on the typical date for the next City Council meeting, the Board elected to move the meeting to the following day, Wednesday, Nov. 12 at 7:30 p.m.

Nichole Kleiner

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The Armistice Day Storm - Part Three: The SS Anna C. Minch

By Claire Marshall The Oceana Echo Community Columnist

The November gales of Armistice Day 1940 were strong enough to sink not one, but three separate freighters. Two foundered - which meant they took on water before sinking wholesale - the SS William B. Davock and the SS Novadoc. When the SS Anna C. Minch met its final resting place, it was snapped in two pieces.

At the time she sank, Anna C. Minch was one of only a few freighters on the Great Lakes named for a woman. This was, however, less empowering than it was an omen, considering the woman in question.

For almost 20 years, Anna Minch ran the Minch Transportation Company and was, for a time, one of the richest and most powerful women in the Great Lakes industrial complex. However, she was only at the reins due to her husband’s and son’s deaths, the latter of whom perished in a shipwreck himself.

Though she was the second largest of the three ships to wreck that day, 380 feet long was nothing to sniff at, certainly not for a Great Lakes freighter at that time. Not to mention, throughout the Minch’s 37-year career, she’d been a part of a handful of collisions already, with docks and other

boats. She’d been run aground several times in inclement weather and suffered gale and ice damage. Throughout her clumsy work history, she’d taken damage but never faltered, granting her the reputation of a tough and seaworthy vessel.

Until the 1920s, the Anna C. Minch was built for and primarily transported grains between Cleveland and Chicago, though she did haul heavier natural materials if necessary.

Following her sale to the Western Navigation Company of Ontario, the Minch still primarily hauled grain, just now sailing under a maple leaf flag.

Like the duck hunters from last week, those working on the Great Lakes that Nov. 11 morning were greeted with typical lakeside November weather: a little cloudy, a little windy, with some scattered, on-andoff-again rain. By early morning, as the Minch headed towards Chicago with her grain, reports began to come in of a massive storm brewing over the plains. And an hour after the Minnesotan duck hunters saw their temperature drop drastically, the squall hit Lake Michigan, the storm so vicious the winds could be physically seen as they approached the West Michigan shoreline.

Next Monday will mark five decades since the tragic sinking of the Edmund Fitzgerald on Lake Superior, the victim of the same freak weather system

that became the Armistice Day Storm and the 1913 Blizzard. The Fitz faced sustained winds of 50 mph, gusts recorded as high as 90 mph, and waves towering 18 feet. The Anna C. Minch, William B. Davoc and the Novadoc faced worse. Sustained winds of 70 mph, gusts over 100 mph, and waves averaging 25 feet high.

It’s no wonder the Minch broke apart. Genuinely, I’m shocked the other two shipwrecks stayed in one piece.

I don’t envy the jobs of the insurance investigators who had to piece together some report of the loss, as there were no survivors to tell the tale of what exactly happened to the ship and at what time. The last people to see the ship afloat were the surviving crew of the Novadoc, who spotted her heading southwest towards Chicago, close to Grand Haven. When she wrecked, estimated to have occurred at 8 p.m., she was just south of Pentwater.

It’s unclear whether she was blown all those miles back or if she turned to seek shelter at a port. Also unclear for many years was how in the world she broke in two - her stern was found not too far off from where she rested, just 400 feet offshore. Initial theories, put forward just days after her loss, were that she had collided with the William B. Davoc, the wreckage of which would

not be found for another 30 years.

Over the years, and as her wreckage has been studied by divers, that theory has fallen to the wayside, but opened the door to a slew of other possibilities. What could be seen in the wreckage was that the anchor was released, meaning that not only was the multiton ship being blown around like a paper boat, but she was dragging her anchor the whole time, likely done as a desperate and last-ditch attempt to save her. It’s entirely possible that the strength of the storm met the drag of the anchor and broke the ship in that way. Other ideas put forth were that she struck the famously shallow sandbars by Pentwater, or that she was hoisted airborne by the towering waves and crash-landed or that she had snapped under her own weight and cargo.

Of the 25 crew members lost, only eight bodies were recovered. Nearby some of the bodies that had washed ashore were two lifeboats, clearly in the midst of being prepared for launch, one last attempt to reach shore just several hundred yards away.

One pair of victims was a husband and wife duo who were charged with preparing meals on the ship - Howard and Mabel Kerton. Robert Vollick was only 15 when his father, William, recruited him

as a last-minute deckhand on the Minch. Robert’s body was recovered, but his father’s was not. There was also 19-year-old Sheldon MacMath, a lookout, whose body was recovered and interred in his hometown of Goderich, Ontario. I won’t regale the entire poem his sister wrote as a eulogy, but I will highlight the opening stanzas:

“Our lonely hearts cry, ‘Where was God?’ / That dark November night / When all the furies of the storm / Closed in their fearful might / And swept the sailors who we loved / Forever from our sight?”

With the 50th anniversary of the Edmund Fitzgerald’s sinking approaching, I’ve heard Gordon Lightfoot’s ballad repeating on social media for weeks. The above poem couldn’t help but remind me of, perhaps, the most haunting lyrics of the song.

“Does anyone know where the love of God goes / When the waves turn the minutes to hours?”

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 a.m.

FRI: Preschool Story Hour, HAPL, 11 a.m.

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

The Ladder Community Center:

Nov. 8 - Party Club for Kids 5-12, 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Nov. 10 - Blanket Finger-Knitting Class, 6 p.m. (sign up req.)

Nov. 15 - Blanket Finger-Knitting Class, 10 a.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.

Knitting Group: 2nd & 4th Tuesday, 10 a.m. to noon

MON: Women’s Bible Study, 1-2 p.m.

TUES: 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

The Ladder to host Give Thanks Supper and worship event

All are invited to The Ladder Community Center on Thursday, Nov. 20, to gather and give thanks. The evening begins at 6 p.m. with sharing a simple Fellowship Supper of soup and bread. Sign-up is required for the supper. Please sign up by 5 p.m. Friday, Nov. 14, by calling (231) 259-0211 or visiting The Ladder office. Those who would like to bring a gratitude dish to share, please indicate the type of dish (dessert, fruit, etc.) when signing up. Please know, attendees are not expected to bring a dish, as their presence is a joy!

From 7-8 p.m., all will sing and share testimony of God’s goodness. Sign-up is not needed for this portion of the event. If one is unable to join the supper, they are still welcome at 7 p.m.

The Ladder Community Center is located at 67 N. State St. in Shelby. For questions, please call The Ladder at (231) 259-0211.

Hart Veterans Day Program planned for Tuesday morning

The Veterans Day Program in Hart will be Tuesday, Nov. 11 at 11 a.m. at Veterans Memorial Park at Hart Lake. It will feature the Hart High School Band playing the National Anthem. A guest speaker from the Oceana County Veterans Service Office will deliver the Veterans Day message.

In the event of inclement weather, the program will take place at the VFW Hall at 802 S. State St. in Hart.

Free concert set for Nov. 22 at Hart Wesleyan

CARS Youth Center is hosting a Free Christian Concert entitled “RECHARGE,” Saturday, Nov. 22, at 6 p.m. at Hart Wesleyan Church, 3757 W. Polk Rd. This event is for all middle school and high school students and leaders. Music is by Joe and Beth Guerra.

Can drives continue for Hart VFW and Pentwater VFW posts

Don’t forget that both the Hart VFW and Pentwater VFW are still collecting your unwanted returnable cans and bottles to help fund operations! For Hart, please drop off at the hall or contact Steve at 231-873-1727 for pick up. For Pentwater, please call (231) 869-4158. It’s a small thing that can really add up!

Annual Fall Bazaar planned at Hart UMC Nov. 14

Hart’s United Women in Faith will hold their Annual Fall Bazaar on Friday, Nov. 14 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Hart United Methodist Church, 308 S. State St. in Hart. Lunch will include soup, sandwich, dessert, and beverage for $8. Takeout is available; please call 231-873-3516. They will also have a bake sale and a silent auction for a lap-size quilt, gift items, and Treasurers and Trinkets. The bake sale and gift items will be as marked. The Treasurers and Trinkets will be by donation. Everyone is welcome.

N ovember

Nov. 7 - Feather Party, Pizza Factory Back Room, 5 p.m.

Nov. 8 - Oceana County Vet Day 5K, Getty Park, Shelby, 10 a.m.

Nov. 8 - Veterans Day Parade, Downtown Hart, 3 p.m.

Nov. 9 - Retirement open house for Steve Prudhomme, 1-4 p.m., Lakeview Commons

Nov. 9 - Soup and Sandwich, St. Joseph - Weare, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Nov. 10 - Adult Crafter Afternoon, HCL, 1-2:30 p.m.

Nov. 11 - Veterans Day Assembly and Breakfast, PPS, 8:30 a.m.

Nov. 11 - Veterans Day Celebration, Walkerville Public School, 9 a.m.

Nov. 11 - Veterans Day Observance, Veterans Park, Hart, 11 a.m.

Nov. 11 - Veterans Day Observance, OCMCF, 1:30 p.m.

Nov. 11 - Veterans Day Observance, Cherry Blossom, 1:50 p.m.

Nov. 11 - Adult Book Club Movie, HCL, 2-4:30 p.m.

Nov. 13 - Teen Night, HCL, 3:30-5:30 p.m.

Nov. 14 - Feeding America Mobile Food Pantry, Shelby Elementary School, 5 p.m.

Nov. 14 - HPA, Karolina & Iwo, HPS Auditorium, 7:30 p.m.

Performing Arts Series presents award-winning duo

The Hart Community Performing Arts Series will present the duo of Karolina Mikolajczyk (violin) & Iwo Jedynecki (classical accordion) at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 14, in the Hart Public Schools Auditorium.

The duo is one of the most vibrant and innovative chamber ensembles of the younger generation. They were winners of Grand Prix and first prizes at international music competitions in Europe (France, Italy, Austria, Croatia and Poland) have performed at Carnegie Hall, Merkin Concert Hall, Guangzhou Opera House and the Warsaw Philharmonic, where they enjoyed their debut to a sold-out audience. They have played recitals in Europe (France, Italy, Germany, Switzerland, Spain, Portugal, Georgia), the United States (New York, Philadelphia, Los Angeles, San Diego, Washington D.C., Indianapolis, Las Vegas and Orcas Island), Asia (China, Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Malaysia, Brunei and the United Arab Emirates), and South America (Chile, Argentina and Uruguay). The duo’s performances are described as perfect and mature, yet luminous and filled with youthful vitality.

Many pieces gain new interpretations and original sounds thanks to their innovative transcriptions. Both artists boldly venture into renowned works of chamber music literature giving them new quality and delightfully diverse coloring. The duo also collaborates with contemporary music composers. In 2019 they worked with two-time Grammy winning composer Krzysztof Penderecki arranging his I Violin Sonata for a duo of violin and classical accordion. The duo has recorded two CD albums with contemporary music nominated for the Fryderyk Prize – the Polish Equivalent of a Grammy.

Tickets for the concert are available at the box office or online at hartseries. org. For further information, contact Artistic Director Tom Kirk at tomkirk@hartseries.org

Pentwater Lake Association board meeting is Nov. 17

The Pentwater Lake Association board of directors will meet on Monday, Nov. 17 at 6:30 p.m. at the Centenary Methodist Church at 82 N. Hancock St., Pentwater. The public is invited to attend and is asked to enter at the Hancock Street Hall entrance.

Membership in the Pentwater Lake Association is open to all individuals interested in the lake, its natural resources and water quality. Members do not have to own lake property in order to join the nonprofit organization. More details and past meeting minutes are available on the Pentwater Lake Association website at www.pentwaterlakeassociation.com.

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ON

OCEANA COUNTY’S 2026 BUDGET

OCEANA COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS

The Oceana County Board of Commissioners will conduct a Public Hearing on a proposed Fiscal Year 2026 Budget for all funds on Thursday, November 13, 2025, at 11:30 a.m. in the Board of Commissioners’ Conference Room, 100 State Street, Hart, Michigan.

The Oceana County Board of Commissioners may not adopt its proposed Fiscal Year 2026 Budget until after the Public Hearing. Copies of the proposed Fiscal Year 2026 Budget, including the authorized County operating property tax millage rate and proposed special operating property tax millage rates, as reduced by Headlee, for the Oceana County Ambulance Service, Oceana County Medical Care Facility, Oceana County Council on Aging, Oceana County Veterans Affairs, and Mason-Oceana 9-1-1 will be available for public inspection beginning Monday, October 27, 2025, during the hours of 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday – Friday, at the Office of the Oceana County Administrator, Oceana County Building, 100 State Street, Suite M-4, Hart, Michigan.

The property tax millage rates to be levied, to support the proposed Fiscal Year 2026 Budget, will be a subject of the public hearing.

Shelby Congregational UCC welcomes Russell Aspinwall as new pastor

By Sharon Hallack

The Oceana Echo Community Correspondent

The Shelby Congregational United Church of Christ (UCC), 51 E. Third St. in Shelby, welcomed Pastor Russell Aspinwall as their new pastor Oct. 1, 2025. He and his wife, Caroline (Carrie), and two young sons recently moved into the church parsonage and have been busy getting settled and meeting with the community.

According to the church’s search committee, before October 1, the church had been without a regular pastor for two and a half years. Pastor Dan Barnum-Stegerrda was a shared pastor between the Hart Congregational and Shelby Congregational churches from May 2016 to June 2023. Prior to Pastor Dan, the last full-time settled pastor for Shelby Congregational was Pastor Ruth Fitzgerald.

Aspinwall most recently served in St. Joseph, Mich., as pastor of a non-denominational Church of Christ and as the interim pastor at Pilgrim Congregational UCC.

“I was looking to get into a more liturgical denomination,” Aspinwall shared. “After patiently waiting, we got connected with Shelby. We fell in love with them, and they fell in love with us.”

Born and raised in Gobles, Mich., Aspinwall grew up in the Pentecostal denomination. He received his Bachelor of Arts in Bible and Theology in 2019 from Christian Life College in Stockton, California.

“I moved back to Michigan and ended up deconstructing/losing my faith. I was unsure of what I believed or what I should do. I had this degree in theology, but I didn't even know that I believed in God. So I took my degree and went into the Clinical Mental Health program at Cornerstone Seminary. This worked out well because, as a seminary, my BA in Theology was acceptable for entrance into a master's program. I figured that I may never become a pastor, but I could still help people through counseling, which is really the heart of pastoral work. In the process of going to school, I was able to reconstruct my faith in a way that felt honest and genuine. I learned to love the Bible, not as a document to defend my presuppositions, but as the story of humanity's ever-evolving relationship with God. I felt this

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was a good foundation to pursue pastoral work on. That's what characterizes my deepest pastoral longings now, to continue that story in my own life and to help others continue in their understanding of God.”

When not involved in the weekly life of his new church, Aspinwall is busy preparing to become officially ordained in the Congregational Church and working toward his master's degree in counseling.

When asked how he sees his life as a pastor, he says, “I’m 28, and my wife is 25. I’m trying to be a young man doing the right thing. None of our friends are married or have children. My primary goal is not to proselytize or draw people away from other churches. My goal is to bring wonder back to the Bible. I view it as truthful, and my hope is that as we grow (spiritually) - that it is organic. That we grow like a family, a healthy family.”

“Pastor Russell is full of Christ's love, which will overflow into the Shelby UCC congregation, making it the destination for those in our community wishing to bring that love into their lives,” shared member of the pastoral search committee, David Law.

Pastor Russell said outside of getting to know his congregation and his new community better, his only other goal currently is “getting all of the church’s technologies going in the right direction.”

In the meantime, those with questions or interest may keep up to date on the church’s Facebook page, Shelby Congregational UCC, by emailing Pastor Aspinwall at russellaspinwall@yahoo.com or by calling the church office at 231-861-4404.

Tickets now available for 'Behold

The community is invited to attend a special musical presentation of Andrew Peterson’s “Behold the Lamb of God,” set to be performed at First Baptist Church of Hart on Friday, Dec. 12 and the Rothbury Community Church on Saturday, Dec. 13. This beautiful, Scrip-

ture-rich musical will tell the sweeping story of Christ’s coming —from the Passover to the manger — through songs, melodies and lyrics accompanied by live instrumentation.

First Baptist Church is located at 3258 N. 72nd Ave. in Hart and Rothbury Commu-

The Lamb of God'

nity Church is located at 2500 W. Winston Rd. in Rothbury. Free tickets are now available at gofbchart.org/behold. Organizers hope many will save the date and invite friends to join them. This musical is set to be a wonderful way to celebrate the Christmas season.

The Aspinwall Family

Church Directory

In Loving Memory of our Family, Friends and Neighbors

obituaries

Jacob ‘Jake’ Dale Nienhuis

November 22, 2003 ~ November 1, 2025

Jacob “Jake” Dale Nienhuis, age 21, passed away sur rounded by family and friends at home Saturday morn ing, November 1, 2025, after a courageous, well-fought 3+ year battle with cancer.

Jake’s thoughtful heart and sharp mind will long be remembered by family and the group of close friends he leaves behind. He enjoyed spending time with his friends online playing games or in-person making late-night runs for food or a good movie. Whether pan and walleye fishing with his dad, or simply taking advantage of being the baby of the family close to his mother, he was always genuinely kind and never complained, even with all the hardships he endured.

One of the highlights of his life was the time spent flying a two-seater fighter jet over Florida, and being invited to be a “pilot for a day” with the Air National Guard based in Tulsa, Oklahoma, alongside F-16 fighter pilots who welcomed him as one of their own, affectionately giving him the call sign of “RANGER.” He remained in close contact with several of the pilots until his passing. He enjoyed retelling the experiences, from the time he pulled four Gs in the fighter jet and nearly blacked out, doing 21 barrel rolls in the same fighter (and only throwing up after the last one), or getting to put on a flight suit and helmet and sit in an actual combat-ready F-16.

Jake is survived by: his parents, Eric and Ann Nienhuis; brother, Cody (Anna) Nienhuis; sister, Taylor (Juan) Nienhuis; grandparents, Kathy Mast and Ron and Kathy Nienhuis; as well as his many loving aunts, uncles, cousins and his group of friends who he highly treasured.

Jake was preceded in death by: his grandfather, Douglas Mast, who he is now reunited with in Heaven.

We love you, Jake. Go and breathe deeply, run swiftly, and enjoy eternity with no more pain, tears or suffering.

Visitation was held Thursday, Nov. 6, 2025, from 4-7 p.m., at Beacon Cremation & Funeral Service, King-Hart Chapel, 2370 N. 72nd Ave., Hart, Mich. 49420. Memorial services will be conducted Friday, Nov. 7, 2025, at 11 a.m., at Grace Adventures, 2100 N. Ridge Rd., Mears, MI 49436.

Beacon Cremation & Funeral Service, King-Hart Chapel, is in charge of arrangements.

www.beaconfh.com

Phyllis Jean Arnold

October 12, 1956 ~ October 30, 2025

Phyllis Jean Arnold, 69, of Shelby, passed away Thurs day, October 30, 2025. She was born October 12, 1956 in Hart, the daughter of Ralph and Vada (Summers) Beggs.

Phyllis had a deep and profound love for her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Her mission in life was to share that love and to encourage others in their own faith journeys. Each evening, she devoted time to prayer and reflection, posting heartfelt devotionals on social media to uplift and inspire others to walk closer with Jesus. Her faith was the foundation of everything she did and the light that guided her gentle spirit.

Phyllis was known for her kindness, compassion and her special love for animals. She once had a big Basset Hound whose name was Phil, and she loved him dearly. She cared deeply for those around her and found joy in the Oceana County Council on Aging, where she made lasting friendships and enjoyed playing games and connecting with her community. The holidays were an especially joyful time for Phyllis—her kitchen became a place of warmth and laughter as she lovingly prepared peanut brittle, cookies, rock candy and her famous peanut butter fudge. She poured her heart into every recipe, taking great satisfaction in sharing her homemade goodies with others. Her homemade noodles were legendary and always made with love.

Above all, Phyllis’ greatest joy in life was her grandchildren—Tatum, Gracie and Callen—who brought her boundless happiness and pride. She cherished every moment with them and carried them close in her heart always.

Phyllis is survived by: her daughter, Marissa Seymour; grandchildren, Tatum, Gracie and Callen; sisters, Lori (Bob) Bos and Lisa (Bryan) Hallock; and many dear friends who became like family at the OCCOA.

Phyllis was preceded in death by: her parents, Ralph and Vada; and brother, Douglas.

Services have been conducted.

The family is deeply grateful for the love and support received in this difficult time. To assist with funeral expenses, donations can be made to Harris Funeral Home, or donations can be made to the Oceana County Council on Aging in memory of Phyllis.

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

Barbara May Smith May 16, 1935 ~ October 26, 2025

Barbara May Smith, 90, of Whitehall, passed away Sun day, October 26, 2025. She was born May 16, 1935 in Mus kegon, the daughter of Henry and Minnie (Cincush) Steenhagen.

On October 1, 1955, Barbara married the love of her life, Frank A. Smith. He precedes her in death.

Barbara graduated from Muskegon Heights High in 1953. She worked her entire career as an office clerk, including 26 years at Sears, Roebuck & Co. in Muskegon, until retiring in 1996.

Barbara was a devoted member of Lebanon Lutheran Church, in Whitehall, for over 50 years. Over the years, she dedicated her time as a Sunday school teacher and was a former Girl Scout and Cub Scout leader. She enjoyed reading, gardening and camping, especially in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.

Barbara is survived by: daughter, Pamela Edson; son, Randy Smith; grandchildren, Mackenzie, Adam, Jordan, Zach, Crystal and Brittany; sister, Pat Powlenko; stepbrother, Robert (Margaret) Mowers; brother-in-law, Joe Lakatos; and daughter-in-law, Roki Abakoui.

Barbara was preceded in death by: her husband, Frank A. Smith; son, Gregory L. Smith; grandchild, Kylene; parents, Henry and Minnie Steenhagen; brothers, William, Donald and Ken Steenhagen; sister, Alice Lakatos; and brother-inlaw, Fred Powlenko.

A memorial service will be conducted at noon, Saturday, November 15, 2025, at Lebanon Lutheran Church, 1101 S. Mears Ave., Whitehall, MI 49461. A luncheon will follow the service at the church.

Memorial contributions can be made to the White Lake Area Food Pantry via checks made to “Lebanon Lutheran,” memo line: White Lake Food Pantry, 1101 S. Mears Ave., Whitehall, MI 49461.

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

www.beaconfh.com

Sally Lou Bettys

February 14, 1944 ~ October 27, 2025

Sally Lou (Oomen) Bettys passed away peacefully on October 27, 2025 in Glendale, Arizona in the care of her family. She was born on February 14, 1944 in Hart, Michigan.

She is survived by her husband of 63 years, Charles Robert Bettys; her four daughters, Charlene (Garrett) Anguilm, Jane Fryer, Beth (Kristen) Bettys and Debra (Joel) Claeys; nine grandchildren: Danielle, Adam, Matthew, Rachel, Thomas, Samantha, Sydney, Logan and Carson; seven great-grandchildren; sisters-in-law Helen Cronk and Debby Oomen; and brother-in-law David Bettys.

Sally was a homemaker and raised her children until she returned to college in 1980 and earned her nursing degree from West Shore Community College. She loved being a nurse and enjoyed getting to know her patients, especially in home health care. She dearly adored all of her pets, as she had many throughout her life. We are sure she is joyfully reunited with them once again! Throughout her life, she loved watching the Detroit Tigers, the Detroit Lions and the many basketball games of her children. Later on in life, she could be found enjoying old Western television programs and trips to the casino.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Frank Oomen and Patricia (Coulier) Oomen, and her brother, Michael Oomen.

In accordance with her wishes, cremation has taken place, and a private ceremony will be held at a later date.

If anyone wishes to honor Sally's memory, please consider a donation to the Oceana County Animal Shelter, reflecting her love of animals.

Mark Allen Robbins

November 26, 1970 ~ August 16, 2025

Mark Allen Robbins, 54, of Hart, died unexpectedly at home Aug. 16, 2025.

He was born in Hart Nov. 26, 1970 to Ronald Robbins, Sr. and the late Sue Ellen Clark.

Mark worked various jobs before founding Fishing Freekz — a fishing tackle business. He enjoyed hunting and fishing along with playing numerous games and many other activities.

He is survived by three sons, Cody (Jessica) Robbins of Hart, Mitchell Robbins of Hart and Matthew Robbins (Hannah Ustick) of Hart; two grandchildren, Carter and Jade Robbins; father, Ronald Robbins, Sr. of Hart; sisters, Tammy (John) Cavanagh of Silver Lake, Pamela (Darrell) Emerson of Shelby and Tracy (Darren) Brown of Rockford; several nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Sue Ellen Clark of Hart; brother, Ronald “Buck” Robbins II of Hart; and his father’s wife, Lorena Robbins of Hart.

A Celebration of Life gathering is scheduled for 3-5 p.m. Nov. 22 at the Golden Eatery in Mears.

By Lucie Winborne

FROM KING FEATURES WEEKLY SERVICE,

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YORK, NY 10019

CUSTOMER SERVICE: (800) 708-7311 EXT.

• On Nov. 10, 1885, German inventor Gottlieb Daimler’s teenage son made the first long-distance test run of the world’s first motorcycle, the Reitwagen, which featured a wooden frame and wheels, no suspension system and a leather drive belt.

CUSTOMER SERVICE: (800) 708-7311 EXT.

257

CUSTOMER SERVICE: (800) 708-7311

STRANGE BUT TRUE #12345_20251027

FOR RELEASE OCT. 27, 2025

HERE’S A TIP #12345_20251027

By Lucie Winborne

• On Nov. 11, 1984, the bronze “Three Soldiers” statue (also known as the “Three Servicemen”) was unveiled near the Vietnam War Memorial. Designed by Frederick Hart to honor the diversity of those who served in that conflict, it also marked the first time an African American was depicted in a sculpture on the National Mall.

By JoAnn Derson

• “Save plastic bags that cannot be recycled and use them to collect food scraps that cannot be composted or flushed.” — B.M. in New York

• Keep your hard-boiled egg yolks from crumbling by wetting your knife between slices.

• On Nov. 12, 1996, teens Amy Grossberg and Brian Peterson checked into a Delaware motel, where Amy gave birth to their child. The baby was later found dead in a trash container behind the motel, and the couple confessed to the crime after having previously claimed the child was stillborn.

• On Nov. 13, 1953, Mrs. Thomas J. White of the Indiana Textbook Commission called for the removal of references to the book “Robin Hood” from textbooks used by the state’s schools, claiming that there was “a communist directive in education now to stress the story of Robin Hood because he robbed the rich and gave it to the poor.” Her campaign, unlike Robin’s, was unsuccessful.

• On Nov. 14, 1941, “Suspicion,” a romantic thriller starring Cary Grant and Joan Fontaine and directed by Alfred Hitchcock, made its debut on the silver screen. It would go on to win an Academy Award nomination for Best Picture and a Best Actress Oscar for Fontaine, and marked the first time that Grant and Hitchcock worked together. They would collaborate again on “Notorious,” “To Catch a Thief” and “North by Northwest.”

• On Nov. 15, 1783, John Hanson, the first president of the Continental Congress under the Articles of Confederation, died in Maryland. Though he’s sometimes referred to as America’s first president, the role didn’t exist as an executive position separate from Congress until 1789.

• On Nov. 16, 2012, Hostess Brands sparked a panicked hoarding of snack cakes when the company announced it was shutting down, and a 31,000% jump in Twinkie sales on Amazon in only a week.

• “To soften the butter without melting it, warm a bowl that is bigger than the butter stick and invert it over the butter on a plate. It’s nice before a meal because it makes a hard stick of butter easier to spread on bread rolls, but not so soft that you use too much.” — T.G. in Indiana

• Save the peel on oranges and grapefruits. You can toss them on a fire for a nice smell.

• “Hard water stains in the toilet are no match for denture tablets. Simply drop one in the toilet and let sit overnight. A quick scrub and a flush in the morning should do it.” — P.S. in Washington

• Make a holiday cheese ball simply: Combine a package of cream cheese with a cup of finely shredded cheese (your choice) and 1/3 cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt. Form into a ball, roll in coating of your choice (dried fruit pieces, chopped nuts, spices, etc.) and chill. Wrap in a pretty cellophane bag and bring with pita chips, crackers or pretzels as a hostess gift.

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

• One spark of static electricity can generate as much as 3,000 volts.

By Lucie Winborne

• Hockey pucks are frozen before each game to prevent bouncing in and out of play and other potentially dangerous and uncontrolled movements.

• One spark of static electricity can generate as much as 3,000 volts.

• Hockey pucks are frozen before each game to prevent bouncing in and out of play and other potentially dangerous and uncontrolled movements.

• According to the National Turkey Federation, around 88% of Americans enjoy the bird as part of their annual holiday feast each year. That adds up to a belly-busting 46 million-plus turkeys, says the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Yep, we don’t call it Turkey Day for nothing!

• The phrase “United States of America” was first published anonymously in the Virginia Gazette newspaper in Williamsburg, Virginia, on April 6, 1776.

• When he was a teenager, physicist Stephen Hawking’s friends called him “Einstein” after they created a computer using telephone switchboards, old clock parts and additional items meant for recycling.

• Nearly 500 animal species have documented homosexual behaviors.

• The Atlantic is the saltiest of Earth’s five major oceans, primarily due to the Antarctic ice sheet and global mountain ranges.

• Nearly 500 animal species have documented homosexual behaviors.

• The Atlantic is the saltiest of Earth’s five major oceans, primarily due to the Antarctic ice sheet and global mountain ranges.

• Muhammad Ali started boxing at age 12 after someone stole his bike. The tearful boy told police officer Joe Martin that he wanted to pummel the culprit, and Martin, who was a boxing instructor at a local gym, advised him to learn how to fight.

• American school buses are yellow because the color is easier to see in poor light and bad weather.

• Helium was the first chemical element not initially discovered on Earth.

• American school buses are yellow because the color is easier to see in poor light and bad weather.

• On average, Google.com processes about 63,000 search queries every second, or more than 5.5 billion searches per day, and 2 trillion per year.

• Helium was the first chemical element not initially discovered on Earth.

• On average, Google.com processes about 63,000 search queries every second, or more than 5.5 billion searches per day, and 2 trillion per year.

• A common garden spider can produce as many as seven types of silk, each made up of a different sequence of proteins.

***

Thought for the Day: “The successful warrior is the average man, with laser-like focus.” — Bruce Lee

Oceana County

ANIMAL SHELTER

Meet Max, a 3-year-old Beagle who takes his job as “Neighborhood Sniff Inspector” very seriously. If there’s a scent, Max will find it—possibly file a report about it—and then demand a treat for his hard work. He’s friendly, funny, and convinced that everyone he meets was put on this Earth to pet him (and maybe share a snack or two). Whether he’s following his nose into adventure or pretending he didn’t just steal your sandwich, Max keeps life entertaining! If you love laughter, loyalty, and a little bit of mischief wrapped up in floppy ears and a wagging tail… Max is your man!

Max 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 231-7303906. Free tags are also available at the OCEANA County Animal Shelter. Meet Max

PUBLIC NOTICE

ORDINANCE NO. 5

AN ORDINANCE FOR ESTABLISHING REGULATIONS FOR TOWNSHIP PARKS

THE TOWNSHIP OF BENONA ORDAINS:

SECTION 1:

No person(s) shall do the following with the township park: maliciously destroy, damage, deface, or remove any tree, shrub, plant, improvement, building, facility, or structure within the park.

enter or remain in the areas known as the Stony Lake Swim Beach and Ballpark between the hours of 11:00 PM and 5:00 AM the following day. There are no restricted hours from Labor Day to Memorial Day weekends for these parks.

enter or remain in the area known as the Lake Michigan Oval Beach between the hours of 11:00 PM and 4:00 AM the following day, which shall be designated by signs. There are no restricted hours from Labor Day to Memorial Day weekends for this park.

leave, or cause to leave, any motor vehicle, motorcycle, snowmobile, camper trailer, or mobile home in any park during the hours set forth in Section 1(b), above. use any radio, television, loudspeaker, public address system, or sound amplifying equipment which is audible more than 100 feet from such equipment.

Use, possess, or deliver any alcoholic beverages or controlled substances.

build or maintain any fires, except in areas designated for fires. No fire shall be built or maintained in any park area during the time the park is closed.

Being a disorderly person by doing any of the following:

1. being intoxicated and endangering directly another person or property.

2. engaging in indecent or obscene conduct.

3. making or inciting a public disturbance.

4. unnecessarily jostling or crowding people. depositing or disposing of garbage, refuse, and other waste materials other than the receptacles designated for such materials.

bringing garbage, refuse, and other waste material into the park for disposal anywhere in the park. possessing or using a glass container in any area designated as a bathing beach and swimming area. operate or park any motor vehicle or other self-propelled vehicle except on designated roadways and parking areas. no animals allowed, except guide animals. place any amenities in any township park without prior township approval as set forth in Section 2, below:

SECTION 2:

If any person(s) within Benona Township desire(s) to add any amenities to any township park, prior thereto, said person(s) shall first approach the Benona Township Board with a written proposal. Said written proposal shall be reviewed by the Township Board at its next regular meeting. After review, it will be at the discretion of the Township Board whether the proposal is approved on a permanent or trial basis or not approved.

SECTION 3:

Any person(s) found guilty of having violated this ordinance shall be guilty of a misdemeanor, and upon conviction thereof, shall be subject to a fine not to exceed $100.00 and/ or imprisonment in the county jail for a period not to exceed 90 days.

SECTION 4:

If any portion of this ordinance shall be declared to be illegal or unconstitutional, the remaining portions of the ordinance shall remain in full force and effect.

Effective Date: This Ordinance is declared to be in immediate effect following an affirmative vote at a regular meeting of the Benona Township Board and upon its date of publication.

I hereby certify that the foregoing revisions to this ordinance were adopted at the October 27, 2025 regular meeting of the Benona Township Board. This ordinance shall take effect 30 days following publication.

In Loving Memory of our Family, Friends and

obituaries

Phyllis Elizabeth Webber

January 23, 1944 ~ October 31, 2025

Phyllis Elizabeth Webber, 81, formerly of Rothbury, de parted this life peacefully on Friday, October 31, 2025, finally making good on her threats to break out of the nursing home. She was born January 23, 1944, in Detroit, the firstborn daughter of Alexander and Genevieve Dresden.

Phyllis was a dearly loved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and friend whose sense of humor and lightheartedness endeared her to everyone who knew her. She was a 1963 graduate of Montague Public Schools. Phyllis married Edward Webber on November 11, 1972. They were blessed with two chil dren, Jennifer and Eddie, whom they loved very much. Phyllis often spoke about their accomplishments with great delight.

Phyllis began her married life as a dedicated homemaker, taking great pleasure in baking, cooking, gardening and canning for her loved ones. Later in life she learned to drive, attended classes at MCC and held a variety of jobs that she truly enjoyed. Phyllis’ Christian faith strengthened her in everyday life as well as hardship, allowing her to embrace life with courage and enthusiasm.

Phyllis found joy in simple pleasures. She loved walking, family gatherings, playing games, going to the beach, reading and listening to her radio. She had a keen eye for treasures, happily exploring thrift shops and garage sales.

She will be remembered for her humor, kind heart, straightforwardness and genuine love of people. Though she is no longer with us, her spirit and laughter will live on in the hearts of all who had the pleasure of knowing her. Family reunions will be a little less sparkly without her.

Phyllis is survived by: her children, Jennifer (Christopher) O’Kelly and Edward (Tiffany Williams) Webber; grandsons, Kameron Peterson and Isaac Webber; sister, Mary (Fritz) Korthase; brothers, Richard (Lovette) and Robert (Kate Mahoney) Dresden; extended family and dear friends.

Phyllis was preceded in death by her husband, Edward Webber; parents, Alexander and Genevieve (Van Loon) Dresden; brother, John Dresden; sister, Katherine Waldrop; brother, Greg Dresden; and great-niece, Chloey Stoudt.

Visitation will be held Wednesday, November 12, at 10 a.m., service at 11 a.m., Harris Funeral Home, 267 N. Michigan Ave., Shelby. Interment will take place in Oak Grove Cemetery, Rothbury, immediately following the service and luncheon.

PUBLIC NOTICE PENTWATER TOWNSHIP

The Pentwater Township Zoning Board of Appeals will conduct a public hearing on Tuesday, November 18, 2025, at 7:00 pm. The meeting will be held in-person at the Pentwater Township Hall at 500 N. Hancock Street in Pentwater, Michigan.

The purpose of the hearing is to hear the following request for a variance from the Pentwater Township Zoning Ordinance. Brian Akey, one of the property owners of Parcel ID No. 64-001-036-400-13, is requesting the following variance from the Pentwater Township Zoning Ordinance:

1. Section 4.04.D requires a minimum lot size of 10 acres where a minimum of 3.66 acres is proposed.

The applicant seeks to restore (divide) the property configuration from one lot of approximately 7.42 acres to the originally approved 2 lots of 3.66 and 3.76 acres respectively which is currently consistent with the rest of the properties along the private drive.

The application for the variance requested may be inspected from 9 am to 4 pm Monday through Friday at the Pentwater Township Office, 500 N. Hancock Street, Pentwater, Michigan 49449.

Please feel free to attend the public hearing described above. Alternatively, you may provide a written response to the Township, should you wish to do so. Please send any correspondence to the Township Zoning Administrator via email to zoningadministrator@ pentwatertownshipmi.gov or to the following address:

Zoning Administrator

Pentwater Township

500 N. Hancock Street

P.O. Box 512

Pentwater, MI 49449

Oceana Center Grange Agricultural Report for November

By Phil Carter

The Oceana Echo Agricultural Consultant

Most everything is past ripe in the "Land of Oceana!" Most harvests are completed, with a few growers finishing up apples. Soybeans are done, and corn is still standing in many fields awaiting harvest. Squash is still being collected,

and carrot growers are anxiously awaiting a go-ahead from processors to let the pulling proceed at full speed.

The apple crop has picked out short overall. Handlers are witnessing this, opening the gates and accepting most varieties. Prices for juice apples now exceed what good apples are bringing. It has been reported that CA (controlled

atmosphere) rooms of Galas are being graded, packed and marketed at a rate unseen in many years.

As 2025 fades into the sunset, we now turn to wrapping up the year. Equipment is being repaired, winterized and stored awaiting the 2026 crop year. Appointments with tax planners are being scheduled, and tree trimming

will commence once leaves fall. Auction calendars are filling up with retirement sales and replacing used and tired equipment with newer models. Please keep in mind that fall and winter is meeting time, and several major events are just around the corner. Any farmer will tell you that the only certain thing is that next year will be different.

OCMCF Board addresses operational issues, employee concerns

By Claire Marshall The Oceana Echo Community Correspondent

October 27 was the final meeting for Alvin Docter as a member of the Department of Health and Human Services/Oceana County Medical Care Facility (OCMCF) Board. His vacancy will be filled by Linda East, who was recently appointed by the Oceana County Board of Commissioners.

Looking back on over a decade of service, Docter said, “I’ve enjoyed it a lot, and I’ve worked with a lot of great people, a lot of great directors, administrators - everyone brings a unique talent to the job, and it’s been really interesting.”

To his remaining board members and the OCMCF administration, he encouraged them to “continue on, we have to do what’s right. Think of why we’re here - it's to provide service to our residents.”

Of greatest concern at the meeting were operational issues at the OCMCF, presented by Administrator Kurt Sapp, who described maintenance work and union contract negotiations to be well underway.

Operations Engineer at the OCMCF Eric Strait presented the current issues facing a Lochinvar Heat Exchanger unit at the Memory Care wing, which was found to be cracked beyond repair. Water quality testing has revealed the water at the OCMCF to be hard and mineral-filled, leading to contamination, corrosion and a breakdown of the system. Strait explained that this is not the first time a heat exchanger has failed at the facility and that previous malfunctions were likely due to the water quality.

In order to mitigate the likelihood of replacement in the near future, Strait explained the precautions being taken at the recommendation of Lochinvar’s team. This includes quarterly inspections of the system, as well as continued water samples to better understand what cocktail of chemicals may best neutralize the water contamination.

The board unanimously approved replacing the heat exchanger for the amount of $13,950.

Discussion of operations continued beyond the water exchanger to the inefficiencies of the HVAC systems located at the back of the facility. At peak summer temperatures, Strait recorded seeing temperatures cooling by only 20 degrees in the building.

The HVAC service provider recommended replacing the current units with larger systems, which would have increased functionality and efficiency. The fact that these recommendations came from the system-providing companies gave Board Chair Larry VanSickle pause, “I’m just a little bit suspicious at recommending something when they have a financial gain by selling the equipment to correct it.”

VanSickle and the rest of the board recommended that Strait bring in a third-party mechanical engineer before making a decision to replace the systems, a replacement that would be a significant financial burden.

Another discussion sprang from the fact that the boiler is not turned off completely in the summer months, at the recommendation of the provider, which drew questions from board member Dale Danes. Danes had managed OCMCF operations prior to Strait and said that, despite also receiving the same recommendation to keep the boiler operational throughout the year, he never had an issue with shutting the system down for 90 days during the summer.

Also presented was the monthly financial report. September saw a net loss of $62,434, which in turn produced a negative monthly budget of $45,408. In other, more positive, news, the financial report noted a gross resident revenue of $1,435,467, which was over $100,000 more than what was expected for the month. Overall, the OCMCF is seeing a net loss of

$150,785 for 2025 thus far.

At public comment, Tara Bateson, an RN at the facility, invited board members to attend the meetings for ongoing negotiations between OCMCF and the nurses’ union.

Following public comment, VanSickle presented frustrations he’d had with OCMCF employees and the liaison to the Commissioner’s Board, Paul Erickson. Of OCMCF employees, VanSickle said, “I think there’s a lot of contact between employees and Mr. Erickson. None of the employees work for the Board of Commissioners… so they should not rely on contact with the Board of Commissioners for their livelihood.”

“If, in fact, they don’t like where they’re working, they can hit the d--- door and work someplace else. And if they continually want to bring in [Commis-

sioner] Board Members on what’s going on, then they should be dealt with insubordination.”

Regarding how such perceived insubordination should be dealt with, VanSickle said, “I’m oldschool, and if you’re continually going to stab your employer in the back, then you need to find another job.”

Danes wished for the record to show that he “does not share that opinion… I think the employees are very important in that facility, and happy employees give good care… and make our residents of the community and surrounding communities happy.”

Of employees with legitimate complaints who are unsatisfied with the OCMCF actions, Danes believes, “in every other entity, you go up the ladder until you either find a dead end or you get results.”

FOR BIDS

SHELBY PUBLIC SCHOOLS - 2026 PROJECTS SHELBY, MI

SECTION 00025

Project: Shelby Public Schools - 2026 Projects

Owner: Shelby Public Schools 525 N State St Shelby, MI 49455

Architect/Engineer: GMB Architecture + Engineering 85 East Eight Street, Suite 200 Holland, MI 49423

Construction Manager: The Christman Company 801 Broadway Ave NW Grand Rapids, MI 49504 616-454-4454

Sealed proposals for all work categories as described in the Project Manual for the above project will be received no later than Tuesday, November 25, 2025 at 1:00 PM. Proposals should be addressed to Josh Bachert, Senior Project Manager, and delivered to The Christman Company, 801 Broadway Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49504. Proposals will be publicly opened, and should contain the required documents; including the trade contractor proposal form, bid security, and affidavits shall be completed in full and included as attachments to the submitted bid.

Bids will be opened and read aloud on the date bids are due, at 2:00 pm. Bid opening will be virtual via Microsoft Teams. A link to join the meeting will be sent out prior to it taking place.

All contractors bidding on work must be bondable and must include in their bid the cost for furnishing a Co-Obligee Labor and Material Payment Bond and a Co-Obligee Performance Bond. On the proposal form the contractor will identify a cost to be deducted from their bid should bonds not be required.

There will be a pre-bid conference at Shelby High School (641 N State St, Shelby, MI 49455) on Wednesday, November 12, 2025 at 3:30 PM conducted by the Construction Manager. It is strongly recommended that contractors attend the pre-bid conference.

Bid documents are available on Procore. For access to the bid documents, contact Josh Bachert (josh.bachert@christmanco.com) to be added to the project site.

All questions are to be directed to the Construction Manager, sent to Josh Bachert (josh.bachert@ christmanco.com). No direct contact with the Owner or Architect is allowed. The deadline for questions is Wednesday, November 19, 2025 at 5:00 PM.

Each Proposal shall be accompanied by a certified check, cashiers’ check, money order, or bid bond made payable to The Christman Company in an amount not less than five percent (5%) of the base bid as a bid security. The Bid Security of Bidders under consideration will be returned immediately after award of contracts by the Construction Manager. The amount of the guarantee shall be forfeited to the Owner if the successful Bidder fails to enter into a contract and furnish required bonds and insurance within 30 days after award of contracts.

Bid documents will be available by the close of business on November 3, 2025. Bid documents may be downloaded online via Procore. Contact Josh Bachert at josh.bachert@christmanco.com to be added to the bidders’ list and receive downloading instructions

All proposals submitted shall remain valid for a period of sixty (60) days after the bid date. The Owner, Architect and Construction Manager reserve the right to waive any irregularities, reject any or all proposals, or accept any proposal, which, in their opinion, will serve their best interest.

Representative Curt VanderWall holds up one of the latest editions of the Oceana Echo on the floor of the Michigan House of Representatives inside the State Capitol in Lansing. "Even during busy days on the House floor, I make time to read my local papers and stay connected with what’s happening back home. Hearing about the great work and events across our district reminds me who I’m here to serve," VanderWall said.

• Contributed Photo

Oceana Community Foundation announces fall community grant awards

This fall’s Community Grant cycle provided funding for every submitted project, reflecting the Oceana Community Foundation’s (OCF) continued investment in critical and emerging needs. The foundation awarded a total of $67,900 in grants to 11 organizations, with grant awards ranging from $800 to $12,500 in support of their programs.

While the OCF supports a wide range of community efforts, this round of grants is a strong commitment to meeting today’s most pressing needs, including expanding access to healthy foods, supporting education and literacy, enhancing recreational spaces, expanding immigration services and strengthening mental health services.

“This grant cycle reflects the incredible diversity of resident needs and the nonprofit partners who are stretched thin trying to meet today’s service demands. We are so fortunate for our many funding partners that helped us fully or even overfund these grant applications,” OCF CEO Tammy Carey said. “Each project shows how, together, we’re building a more connected community where everyone can thrive.”

The 11 grants include:

• $5,000 to AgeWell Services of West Michigan for a new Meals on Wheels Delivery Van, a project to keep homebound older adults in Oceana County nourished, connected and living independently.

• $3,000 to Hart Public Schools Diman-Wolf Early Childhood Center to allow students equal access to choose their own book with tokens at Spitler Elementary’s Scholastic Book Fair and to gain confidence moving to a bigger school building.

• $3,000 to Immigrant Connection Hart Office to expand immigration services by covering training expenses for a new staff assistant.

• $5,000 to Lakeshore Food Club’s expansion into Oceana County by supporting increased accessibility of healthy foods and improved food systems. Lakeshore Food Club aims to strengthen the existing charitable food system, open a new food club at the former Gales IGA site and establish a regional food

hub at their newly acquired warehouse in Hart’s industrial park.

• $800 to Oceana County Council on Aging’s Sharing Shelf project, an initiative designed to combat senior food insecurity throughout our community. The grant will provide hygiene products and essential kitchen tools.

• $10,000 to Read Muskegon for ESL Tutoring Program Expansion in collaboration with West Shore Community College. Funds will allow for additional tutor training and expand intake and testing for new learners to meet the growing community and employer demand.

• $3,600 to Shelby Area District Library for new public computers to accommodate patrons who need them. Some patrons prefer using a desktop computer to access email, research, print documents and create resumes.

• $12,500 to Shelby Township for the Shelby Tiger Athletic Community Center’s playscape area, an indoor dedicated room that will provide a safe yearround place for play and socialization for young children.

• $10,000 to Fountain Hill Center for school support therapy services through licensed counselors and master's-level interns. These services help to fill gaps in mental health care and provide continuity of care in the summer.

• $5,000 to West Central Michigan Horticultural Research, Inc. for the apple tree trellis project promoting sustainable agriculture and local food access. Funds will support new trellis systems, apple trees and community workshops on orchard care.

• $10,000 to West Michigan Community Mental Health for the “Building Bridges to Hispanic Behavioral Health: Reducing Stigma Through Community Partner Education” program, aimed at reducing stigma and improving access to care. A training led by a Hispanic community health worker will equip local partners with culturally appropriate tools to better support mental health outreach.

The foundation expresses its heartfelt thanks to

the donors that play a large part in the success of meeting the Fall 2025 Community Grant Round requests: Oceana Youth Fund, Bessie E & Ethan Allen Gray Health Fund, Zack Snider Agricultural Memorial Fund, Community Investment Fund and an anonymous donor.

Oceana nonprofits, government agencies, schools, and community organizations are invited to apply in the Foundation’s 2026 Spring Grant Round. The application will open on Feb. 2 with applications of intent due on Feb. 14 and full applications due on Feb. 27. More information on the upcoming Spring Grant Round is available on the foundation’s website. To view OCF's grant history, please visit https:// oceanafoundation.org/grants/past-grant-awards

For more information, potential applicants should reach out to the Foundation’s Program Officer Hannah Naples at 231-869-3377 or hannah@ oceanafoundation.org.

For more information about making a gift now or through an estate plan, creating a named fund at the OCF, or to learn more about foundation programs and activities, please call Carey at 231-869-3377 or email tammy@oceanafoundation.org.

Defense stands tall for Tigers in playoff victory over Pine River

By Andy Roberts

The Oceana Echo Community Contributor

LEROY — There were many heroes on the Shelby defense in the Tigers’ impressive 20-2 defeat of Pine River Friday night, but the night couldn’t have ended the way it did without a starring role from Isaac Garcia.

The Tigers’ senior leader, unable to play offense due to a broken right hand that was clubbed up, nevertheless came up with maybe the game’s signature two-play sequence down the stretch. With Pine River driving down 14-2 and making their last gasp to try to get back in the game, Garcia tackled the quarterback, Beckett Martin, on third down, then broke up a Martin pass on fourth down.

His offensive teammates then drove down the field for the exclamation point touchdown that secured the program’s first playoff victory in 12 years, sending Shelby on to the district final at Harrison this Friday. Brody Fessenden converted on fourth down, powering through the Pine River defense for the clinching score.

“In crucial moments, he’s our guy,” Shelby coach Phil Fortier said of Garcia. “He’s our dude. Everybody looks to him for leadership,

and he’s a captain. He’s a leader. He’s everything you want as a player. He works his butt off, and to have that happen at the end of the season is huge. He can’t play offense (because of the injury), but man, he has taken over that secondary.”

As impressive as the defense was, though, it was an offensive play that sparked the Tigers early.

After coming up with an interception on the first Bucks’ possession, Shelby got a bad omen when the wet weather led to a fumbled snap and a big loss on its first offensive play. Backed up to thirdand-24, Fortier said he’d already conceded the punt - until quarterback Jaylin Henderson hit Trevor Weiss on a slant for 23 yards.

“I call the punt team out, and then I got the look from the sideline,” Fortier said. “Then I said, ‘Alright, boys. It’s on the 40-yard line and we’re going to get one. Let’s go see what we’ve got.’ I trusted them, and they came through.”

Fessenden converted the first down, and shortly thereafter, the senior back made a one-handed snag of a short pass from Henderson and outran the Bucks defense to the end zone for the game’s first score.

Pine River did get on the board on Shelby’s next drive when the Tigers got the ball at their own 5-yard line, didn’t do anything with it, and

•

snapped the ball over Henderson’s head and through the end zone on a punt attempt for a safety. However, that was all the Bucks did all night. Two trips into Shelby territory - one on the first drive of the game, and the other ending with that Garcia pass breakup - was pretty much it for the home offense.

“We just knew we had to take care of two guys, and once we got them, the game’s ours,” Garcia said; certainly one of those guys was Bucks star running back Jericho Holmes, who found the going tough in the middle of the field. “So that’s what we came into this game (thinking)... and that’s what we did and that’s how we won.”

Shelby couldn’t add to its 8-2 lead before halftime, though it wasn’t for lack of effort, as Elijah Dashiell made an acrobatic catch on a long sideline pass from Hen-

page 15

Hart teams earn top-10 finishes at state

Natalie Rosema secures all-state finish with career-best run

By Andy Roberts

The Oceana Echo Community Contributor

Led by an all-state run from Natalie Rosema, Hart’s teams both turned in strong performances at Saturday’s Division 3 state finals in Brooklyn, setting the stage for a promising 2026.

The Pirate girls’ squad finished sixth of 28 teams, two positions higher than its finish in 2024, and the boys’ team leapt from 20th place last season to 10th Saturday. Every scoring runner for both teams is poised to return next fall. The finishes marked Hart’s 11th girls top-10 finish and the ninth for the boys’ team.

Rosema’s 23rd-place finish was the top one for the Pirates in either race, and she set a new personal best time of 19:13.4. Like every other Hart runner returning from last season’s state meet, she improved her time from 2024.

Emma Miller, a freshman, was Hart’s second finisher, coming in 49th place. Her time was 19:57.4, the second-best of her career.

Alaina Schaner placed 68th for the Pirates and had a time of 20:18.7, the best time of her career outside of the Benzie Central course. Bryn Riley took 92nd place with her second-best career time, 20:41.9, and Luisa VanderZwaag closed out the Pirates’ scoring with a time of 21:05.2, taking 123rd place.

Also for Hart, Abigail Studer finished 166th (21:36.2) and Kenai Kokx was 195th (22:18.3).

In the boys’ race, Silas Ackley led the team with a 63rd-place finish, earning a new personal best time of 16:39.1. Aiden Schaner set a new season best time of 16:59.6, placing 92nd. Mason Opalewski finished 100th and had a personal best time of

17:02.5, and Timothy Wolff had his second-best career time of 17:17.1, finishing 130th - a fraction of a second ahead of teammate Trevor VanderKodde, who also had his second-best time.

Grant Ackley (133rd, 17:18.1) and Carson Ackley (170th, 17:45.2) also finished for the Pirates, posting their second-best career times.

Also in the Division 3 finals, Shelby’s Parker Weirich placed 123rd with a time of 17:13.5 - the second-best of his career.

Ruhstorfer nearly beats career best at state meet

Hesperia’s Nate Ruhstorfer delivered an excellent run Saturday at the Division 4 state finals in Brooklyn, just barely missing a new career best time and finishing in 85th place out of 246 runners.

Ruhstorfer ran a time of 17:39.9, one second more than the personal best he set at the previous week’s regional meet. Ruhstorfer finished amidst a huge mass of runners; only 10 seconds separated

and

place.

HART

Shelby’s Elijah Dashiell pulls in a deep pass on the final play of the first half of Friday’s 20-2 victory over Pine River. The Bucks’ Tate Felsk defends on the play. Shelby won the game, 20-2.

Andy Roberts/Echo

Shelby’s big win continued on

75th

94th

The Hart girls cross-country team celebrates placing sixth at Saturday’s Division 3 state finals in Brooklyn. Natalie Rosema (far left) earned all-state. • Courtesy Photo

Shelby’s Trevor Weiss celebrates after the Tigers’ first touchdown of Friday’s pre-district game at Pine River. The Tigers won, 20-2. • Andy Roberts/Echo

The Hart boys cross-country team celebrates finishing in 10th place at Saturday’s Division 3 state finals in Brooklyn. • Courtesy Photo

Hart makes Cinderella run to district finals

By Andy Roberts

The Oceana Echo Community Contributor

Hart pulled off a remarkable upset victory over West Michigan Conference Lakes co-champion Ludington

Wednesday night, 26-24, 1925, 22-25, 27-25, 15-13, to advance to Friday’s district finals against Reed City.

It was not the Pirates’ finest hitting night, as the team hit .031, but gritty, gutsy defense and efficient serving - Hart missed only four serves all night - were the difference.

“The girls played great defense tonight and kept us in every set,” Hart coach Shawn Bectel said. “Ludington was a great team and it was a hardfought match, but we had a

great overall team effort to carry us through.”

Alayna Schiller led the team with 43 of the Pirates’ remarkable 134 total digs. Reese Smith added 23 digs and paced the offense with 16 kills. Grace Tucker and Cali Eisenlohr combined for 38 assists.

Jenna Babbin and Braelynn Talmadge each notched a pair of blocks.

Pirates beat Big Rapids in opener Hart defeated Big Rapids Monday night at Chippewa Hills in a close pre-district match, 25-22, 25-22, 25-22.

“The girls had great energy and gave a fierce defensive effort to lead the way to victory tonight,” Hart coach Shawn Bectel said.

The Pirates overcame 13 service errors to get the win. Alayna Schiller led the Hart defense with 21 digs, and Braelynn Talmadge had three blocks.

Reese Smith paced the offense with 11 kills, and Grace Tucker posted 15 assists, with Cali Eisenlohr chipped in 10.

Hesperia knocks off Holton to open districts

By Andy Roberts The Oceana Echo Community Contributor

SHELBY — Hesperia had to escape two game points to earn a game one win over Holton during Monday’s pre-district match, but once the Panthers fought their way out of that deficit, they turned on the jets and dominated in a sweep, 28-26, 25-8, 2516.

The clear turning point of the match was that first game, in which Holton rallied from a six-point deficit to take a 24-22 lead, setting itself up for a game point. However, the Red Devils committed a service error, and Hesperia’s Sarissa Conkle delivered a clutch kill to tie the game at 24 and put her team ahead with an ace on the next serve. The Panthers never trailed again. Olivia Gerard fired an ace to break a 26-26 tie, and Jeri Ward delivered the game-winning kill.

Coach Erin Redinger-Rottier gave credit to her team for bouncing back from the difficult spot in the opener and showing self-determination.

“The team was pretty self-driven tonight, which I’ve been trying to work towards the last half of the season,” Redinger-Rottier said. “If they don’t want it, then there’s not much I can do from the sidelines. They got a couple breaks there at the end of that first set, and they took that momentum and rode it into that second set, and they didn’t really let up, which is good to see.”

Hesperia left no doubt the remainder of the night. Emily McCallum went on a serving run to start game two, giving the Panthers a 5-0 lead. Hesperia later led 11-2 and 17-5, never allowing the Red Devils to threaten. Game three wasn’t much different; Hesperia led 6-1 and cruised to the victory.

Serving was solid all night for Hesperia, with many more aces than errors.

“I’ve been trying to get them to look at the other team and try to pick apart where they feel their weaknesses are,” Redinger-Rottier said. “I feel like they finally honed in on that tonight, and it paid off. We were working on a certain type of serve and placing our serves.”

Conkle is only a junior, but her leadership of the team has been evident throughout the season, no more clearly than when the Panthers needed some big attacks late in game one. Her kill and ace late in game one were instrumental to the comeback, and she also ended game two with an ace.

Redinger-Rottier said the team has worked on leadership exercises with Conkle, and the junior star said her motivation in the big moments is to deliver for her teammates.

“I really don’t want to let anyone down, so at some points, if we’re up, I’ll try to swing and (hit it hard), but sometimes I really try to play smart and place the ball where I know we’ll get kills,” Conkle said. “Some teams leave the middles open, and

that’s usually where to go if you don’t want to swing and miss.”

With the win, the Panthers moved on to face West Michigan Conference Rivers champion North Muskegon in the district semifinals. Conkle said her team believes it can win. With the team’s growth over the course of the season, the Panthers are aiming high.

“I think their understanding of strategy of the game has gone up exponentially and then just being able to execute those skills in tough situations,” Redinger-Rottier said. “They’ve started to become more relaxed in situations like that. That’s where I’ve seen growth the most.”

N. Muskegon defeats Hesperia in semis Hesperia fell to West Michigan Conference Rivers champion North Muskegon in Wednesday’s semifinal match in Shelby, 25-14, 25-9, 25-16.

The Panthers ended the season with a 10-23-1 record.

Ravenna edges Shelby in tough 1st-round match

By Andy Roberts The Oceana Echo Community Contributor

SHELBY — Shelby coach McKenna Peters expected a well-matched battle Monday night against Ravenna in the first round of districts, and that’s exactly what the Tigers got. Unfortunately, a few key errors late in game one helped get Ravenna into the lead, and the Bulldogs won a close match, 25-23, 20-25, 25-23, 25-19.

A key sequence was in the third game. The Tigers had put together an excellent second game to tie the match at one game apiece after Ravenna had pulled out a close opening win, and a clutch kill by Briar Peters put Shelby up 23-22 in game three. The opportunity was there to jump ahead 2-1 and really put the pressure on the Bulldogs. Unfortunately, Ravenna scored the final three points of the game, all on Tiger errors - a service error, then a net violation, then an attacking error. The Bulldogs led through most of game four and were able to hold off a late Shelby charge to complete the win.

“I think that the whole conversation that we had coming into tonight was to be aggressive and to swing hard,” Peters said. “We knew they had big middles. We knew that they had a great defense, so we knew that we had

to be aggressive to go out there and score. I think that we just got a little bit too aggressive with sets that maybe weren’t there that we needed to do something else with.”

Peters told her team to tweak their offensive strategy and force Ravenna’s setter to make plays on the ball during one timeout, and the team responded. Unfortunately, the Bulldogs were able to make a counter-adjustment and keep Shelby at bay.

It was another good night for the Tiger defense, maybe the team’s strongest point all year. With Ravenna throwing impressive attacks at Shelby all night, the back row for the Tigers came up with some great digs that kept their team in the game. Brylee Friedman led the defense with 26 digs, and Briar Peters added 25. Kylie Brown and Peyton Rapes posted 21 digs each.

“We’ve consistently played really, really well on defense and had a lot of girls who are just putting up really great dig numbers game after game,” coach Peters said. “I thought our defense was incredible tonight, but unfortunately their defense was just as good.”

In game two, Friedman and Brown delivered late serves to help their team tie the match at a game each; Friedman scored an ace to end that game, one of her team-high four. At one point

in game two, Brown and Ariana Garza teamed up on a remarkable save on a ball near the bench that was difficult to play, and the Tigers scored a point on that rally thanks to a net violation by Ravenna.

On offense, Peters scored 16 kills and Brown had 13, posting a .306 hitting percentage. Rapes had an impressive 44 assists.

It was the last Shelby match for seniors Friedman, Brown and Garza, who were not just among the team’s best players but were respected leaders. Peters said it was their buying into her coaching in her first season taking over for her own former coach, Tom

Weirich, that helped the Tigers enjoy the success they did in 2025.

“When you get a new head coach as a senior after you’ve played three years under a different coach running a different program, it can be a super hard transition,” Peters said. “They made that transition super seamless. They came in and they respected me from day one, and they bought into what I was trying to do. I think because they were able to do that, our whole team was able to, and so they made that transition super easy.

“I’m super grateful that they were the first group of seniors that I had. They were great leaders.”

At left, Hesperia’s Emily McCallum lines up a set as teammate Madesyn Bolles looks on during Monday’s pre-district match against Holton. At right, Hesperia’s Sarissa Conkle fires the ball at Holton defender Mya Bartolameolli. Conkle had clutch plays late in game one to help the Panthers earn a 3-0 sweep. • Andy Roberts/Echo

Shelby’s Kylie Brown (4) fields the ball as teammates Annabelle Stark (1) and Peyton Rapes look on during Monday’s pre-district match against Ravenna. The Tigers lost, 3-1. • Andy Roberts/Echo

Shelby’s big win

derson as time ran out, albeit not close to the end zone. The Tigers did, though, add to it when they received the second-half kickoff. They kept the ball for nearly eight straight minutes, with Henderson’s clutch 3rd-and-11 conversion pass to DayDay Garcia a big part of the drive, before Henderson went in from 18 yards out.

Henderson made several clutch throws in big spots, finding his main men Weiss, Fessenden and DayDay Garcia seemingly whenever he needed to - and almost as importantly, avoiding any big mistakes.

“He was a great decision-maker tonight and an absolute dog and a dude run-

ning the football and throwing it,” Fortier said. “The maturity in him, when we take a bad play and we get a loss, he bounces back so well from that compared to last year.”

Isaac Garcia, who in healthier times shares the quarterback position with Henderson, said he counseled his teammate at halftime and praised Henderson, saying, “He’s a beast. He played a great game.”

There was no question of what the game meant to the Tigers’ program as time ticked off the clock. Hugs and celebrations were everywhere, and the sense of relief was palpable.

“We went through 12 straight losing seasons, and

that gets to you mentally, and it goes through the whole community,” Fortier said. “Everybody talks poorly about Shelby football, and we earned a lot of it. Doggone it,

these guys have worked their absolute butts off in the offseason, and during the season, and I’m just so proud.

“So happy for our community. That brings a little

pride back, winning in the playoffs...I forgot what it was like. There’s nothing better than playoff football in high school, and we’re just happy to be playing another week.”

The Shelby defense stacks up a Pine River ballcarrier during Friday’s pre-district matchup at Pine River. The Tigers dominated the game on defense, not allowing the Bucks to score a point on offense in

20-2 win.

Reflections of our community

Reflections

Reflections of our community

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YOUR LOCALLY OWNED AND OPERATED NONPROFIT NEWS SOURCE

Whitehall voters elect Ziemer as new mayor

Council to see shakeup with Ziemer's seat vacated; Whitehall school millage narrowly passes

ed mayor in 2021. Previously, the mayor had been chosen by the city council from among its ranks, but Whitehall voters approved a city charter change in 2019 to make it a directly elected position.

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

Whitehall voters elected a new mayor Tuesday night, as council member Tom Ziemer received 573 votes to incumbent Steven Salter's 396, taking 59.1% of the vote.

Salter had been in the office of mayor since becoming the city's first elect-

ed mayor in 2021. Previously, the mayor had been chosen by the city council from among its ranks, but Whitehall voters approved a city charter change in 2019 to make it a directly elected position.

Ziemer will vacate his city council seat to move into the mayor's chair, creating a fourth open seat on the council in addition to the three that were contested in Tuesday's election. The two incumbents - Scott Brown and Jeff Holmstrom - each retained their seats, being named on 431 and 341 ballots respectively, but the most votes went to newcomer Bryan Mahan, a

Hundreds turn out for Aldi grand opening

New store had giveaways for early arrivals, fills former Plumb's spot on Colby Street

New store had giveaways for early arrivals, fills former Plumb's spot on

Colby Street

By Andy Roberts

White Lake Mirror Editor

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

White Lake Mirror Editor

WHITEHALL — The Whitehall Aldi store celebrated its grand opening last Thursday with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and giveaways to the first 100 shoppers in line.

To be one of those first 100, local shoppers had to earn it; the line for the new store was already filling up multiple hours prior to the 9 a.m. opening, and by the time the ribbon cutting took place, hundreds were in a line that stretched beyond the Big John's Pizza premises of the Colby Street plaza.

Prior to the grand opening, the store had a soft opening Wednesday, Oct. 29, enabling local residents to get a first look at the store.

Whitehall Aldi store last Thursday morning. The first 100 were given reusable shopping totes filled with groceries.

first 100 were given reusable shopping totes filled with groceries.

• Andy Roberts/Mirror

Prior to the grand opening, the store had a soft opening Wednesday, Oct. 29, enabling local residents to get a first look at the store.

It was an opening over a year in the making; the Whitehall Township plan-

ning commission approved a site plan for the store, which previously housed Plumb's and Great Lakes Fresh Market, in August 2024. At the time, Erik Allore, a representative of the civil engineering firm that worked with Aldi, hoped the store would be open in "approxi-

It was an opening over a year in the making; the Whitehall Township planning commission approved a site plan for the store, which previously housed Plumb's and Great Lakes Fresh Market, in August 2024. At the time, Erik Allore, a representative of the civil engineering firm that worked with Aldi, hoped the store would be open in "approxi-

Aldi staffers assemble for the ribbon cutting that marked the store's grand opening last Thursday morning. The store had a soft opening the day before and is now serving customers. • Andy Roberts/Mirror

staffers assemble for the ribbon cutting that marked the store's grand opening last Thursday morning. The store had a soft opening the day before and is now serving customers. • Andy Roberts/Mirror

morning. The store had a soft opening the day before and is now serving customers. • Andy Roberts/Mirror

mately a year."

The enthusiasm was obvious for the new store, which gives shoppers another grocery option in the White Lake area to go with Montague Foods and Walmart, the latter of which opened in 2017.

"We were excited to see the fan

The enthusiasm was obvious for the new store, which gives shoppers another grocery option in the White Lake area to go with Montague Foods and Walmart, the latter of which opened in 2017.

"We were excited to see the fan

base grow in Whitehall as we continue our nationwide expansion," said Ryan Fritsch, Aldi regional vice president, in an email. "Aldi shoppers’ loyalty and passion is truly unmatched, and our

Aldi opens continued on page 2

Track Gives Back provides community dinners

Veteran Andrew Heykoop, wife Crystal lead effort as new Winston Speedway owners

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

ROTHBURY — New Winston Speedway owners Andrew and Crystal Heykoop have long wanted to host a Thanksgiving meal for the community as a charitable effort. In a way, they're finally getting to make that goal a reality through their The Track Gives Back initiatives, which kick off this month with a series of free community dinners.

The dinners are taking place from 5-7 p.m. each Tuesday and Wednesday in November at the Rothbury Community Center, with local businesses invited to donate food for the meals. Andrew said Papa's Pizza of Montague

plans to provide the food for a meal later this month.

One of those meals, as the calendar falls, will take place the day before Thanksgiving, in effect fulfilling the Heykoops' hopes, but with the uncertainty surrounding the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program amid the federal government shutdown, the dinners are a chance to help those who might be affected by reduced benefits.

Just as much as the food, though, the Heykoops say they want to bring the community together for conversation amid a divisive political climate. Both of them are in local politics - Andrew, a U.S. Army veteran, is on the Oceana County Road Commission, and Crystal serves on the Shelby village council - and Andrew said while the national political climate involves "infighting" and inflexibility, he believes local people can come together to solve local issues. He said a local picnic he hosted

ty, together and not follow the national standard...When we can get here with the community and engage, we can work on our local issues."

last year served the same goal. "Whether you're on the left or right, I think we need to go back to where we talk," Andrew said. "You don't just sit there and hold political lines and dig in. From the local level, we can solve our local issues, as a community, together and not follow the national standard...When we can get here with the community and engage, we can work on our local issues."

ty, together and not follow the national standard...When we can get here with the community and engage, we can work on our local issues."

Aldi staffers assemble for the ribbon cutting that marked the store's grand opening last Thursday

retired Whitehall High School teacher and coach. Mahan received 506 votes and will take over the seat vacated by Steve Sikkenga, who chose not to seek another term.

The city council will appoint someone to the seat Ziemer is vacating. Ac-

Holmstrom Brown Mahan Ziemer

Hundreds of bargain hunters lined up prior to the 9 a.m. grand opening of the Whitehall Aldi store last Thursday morning. The

The Rothbury Community Center is the site for free community dinners being hosted by the new owners of Winston Speedway, Andrew and Crystal Heykoop. The dinners will take place each Tuesday and Wednesday in November. • Andy Roberts/Mirror

Aldi

retired Whitehall High School teacher and coach. Mahan received 506 votes and will take over the seat vacated by Steve Sikkenga, who chose not to seek another term.

The city council will appoint someone to the seat Ziemer is vacating. Ac-

Holmstrom Brown Mahan Ziemer

Hundreds of bargain hunters lined up prior to the 9 a.m. grand opening of the

retired Whitehall High School teacher and coach. Mahan received 506 votes and will take over the seat vacated by Steve Sikkenga, who chose not to seek another term.

The city council will appoint someone to the seat Ziemer is vacating. Ac-

Holmstrom Brown Mahan Ziemer

Hundreds of bargain hunters lined up prior to the 9 a.m. grand opening of the Whitehall Aldi store last Thursday morning. The first 100 were given reusable shopping totes filled with groceries.

Whitehall Twp. board approves DPW director position

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

WHITEHALL — The Whitehall Township board unanimously approved a job title switch for John Duff during its Oct. 27 meeting, naming him the township Department of Public Works director at an updated salary.

Duff was previously deputy supervisor. Supervisor Dennis Kroll proposed eliminating that position and giving Duff the updated title in light of all the work he has been doing as the township

sewer administrator. Duff, who according to Kroll was effectively being paid $5 per hour for the work he was doing, was installed at an updated salary of $14,400 per year.

The position, as all positions are, will be open to review in future years, per a discussion between Kroll and trustee Chuck Schmitigal during the meeting.

The board has also proposed a bump in the late fees for its quarterly sewer payments. The late fees were previously 1% per month for unpaid balances after a 30-day window. Kroll said

Community dinners

The meals, meanwhile, will have different themes. Wednesday's meal was a spaghetti dinner, and the aforementioned Papa's meal will be a themed evening.

"Hopefully from here it can trigger other local businesses to realize they can also help," Andrew said. "Even if we just become the shell that helps organize it or run it, then other businesses can pile in and help where they can. Hopefully we can take care of our community."

There's no goal in mind for how many come to the dinners - within the first hour of Tuesday's dinner, 30 or 40 had dined. Crystal said they were prepared for up to 200, but ultimately, the amount of people is less important, said Andrew, than the feeling of having helped local people.

"I don't care what the number is," Andrew said. "If it's one person, then you still touched one person."

The speedway, meanwhile, will hopefully re-

he felt the small fee was "antiquated," resulting in the proposal to increase the fee to 3% per month. As the fee is a matter of township ordinance, the board is required to make the proposal public at two meetings before enacting the change, so it will be proposed again and voted on at the Nov. 24 meeting. If approved, the change would take effect with bills dated Jan. 1.

During public comment, township resident Kathy Dusseau asked if the township can do anything about lowering speed limits on Wiczer Road. She

said there are 49 homes on her onemile stretch of Wiczer, but the speed limit is 55 miles per hour. She said her mailbox has been taken out in the past and that she and neighbors are concerned about having children in their front yards given the high limit. Kroll replied that Michigan is looking at its current survey plan for speed limits; Public Act 33 of 2024 allowed municipalities to petition county road commissions for speed limit changes without needing to conduct a speed study.

Aldi opens

fan community is a huge part of what sets us apart from other stores. Our shoppers’ loyalty, eagerness and support have helped us become one of the fastest-growing retailers in the U.S."

open in 2026; it hasn't been open for two and a half years and plenty of work is to be done to make it race-ready.

Andrew said he and his wife pursued buying the speedway due to a lack of family-oriented activities available in the area.

"You can see when that track closed that there's just nothing here (for families) to do," Andrew said. "Hopefully we can bring it back, make it fun and engage the community, and then have something for you to do that's good, clean, family fun."

Election results

cording to the city charter, a replacement must be appointed within 30 days or the issue would be decided in a special election. The appointee will take over Ziemer's term, which ends in 2028 after the council approved an election cycle change that will add a year to the terms of councilpersons elected in 2023 and this year.

Roger Squiers finished fourth in the council election with 312 votes, and Billie Conrad got 309 votes. Also running were Mark Nienhouse (283 votes), John Robillard (182) and Daniel Hardy (125).

Also in Whitehall, the school district's "Safe. Warm. Dry." millage request narrowly received approval. A total of 1,667 voters, or 50.5%, approved the measure, with 1,625 voting against it. The millage's approval enables the district to issue $30 million in bonds that will go to several projects within Whitehall schools, including a renovated secure entry at the high school, heating and cooling upgrades in all buildings and other facility upgrades.

"We are grateful for the trust our community has placed in us," superintendent CJ Van Wieren wrote in an open letter. "We will move forward with care and transparency as we begin the planning and design work. This will be a multi-year process, and we are committed to keeping you informed and involved as we take each step forward."

Though the line was long, local residents reported that once it began to move after the ribbon-cutting, things went pretty smoothly.

"From standing in line to shopping to getting out was a total of one hour," said local resident Kristan Hall on Facebook. "I love Aldi so I'm excited to have one close to home."

Aldi store management politely said they were not permitted to give comments to the press Monday, directing the Mirror to the company's public relations team.

Voters throughout much of the White Lake area easily granted approval to a renewal of the White Lake Ambulance Authority millage, with 1,402 voters, 74.5% of those who cast ballots, voting yes. The approval retains the WLAA's current maximum rate of 1.9 mills, though the WLAA has said it will collect 1.7 mills, with the 1.9 in place to guard against Headlee Amendment rollbacks that do not permit property taxes to rise at a rate higher than inflation.

"We have five more years of funding, but (the approval) also shows the dedication and commitment to our community," the WLAA posted on Facebook. "We thank our employees for their hard work. We thank our community for the trust and support you have shown us."

Fritsch said via email that the company looks forward to receiving public feedback about the store. Those who would

like to submit feedback may do so on the Internet at help.aldi.us/contact-form-other.

"We can't wait to hear about shopper experiences and their favorite Aldi Finds," Fritsch said. "We are looking forward to hearing from customers firsthand."

A table is set out with drinks and desserts Tuesday during the first free community dinner at the Rothbury Community Center. Winston Speedway is hosting the dinners each Tuesday and Wednesday this month.

• Andy Roberts/Mirror Photos

The Aldi store in Whitehall opened last Thursday, and a bright morning sunrise greeted it prior to a 9 a.m. ribbon-cutting. • Andy Roberts/Mirror

Saturday, Nov. 8

Justin Avdek Duo performs @ North Grove Brewers, 7 p.m.

Citizen Jones performs @ Book Nook & Java Shop, 7 p.m.

The Formers perform @ Wayside Bar and Grill, 7 p.m.

Truck Driver Bingo performs @ Pub One Eleven, 8 p.m.

Sunday, Nov. 9

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

Monday, Nov. 10

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

Common Ground hosts primer on ranked choice voting @ White Lake Community Library, 5 p.m.

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

Tuesday, Nov. 11

Baby Time @ White Lake Community Library, 9:30 a.m. Stories, songs and play time. Intended for babies

Community Calendar

ages 0-2 and their caregivers.

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

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

The White Lake VFW hosts a free lunch for veterans in honor of Veterans Day, 2 p.m. $10 for non-veterans.

Free community dinner hosted by Winston Speedway @ Rothbury Community Center, 5-7 p.m.

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

Wednesday, Nov. 12

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.

Lights & Legends @ MADL Montague, 4 p.m. Create your own paper lantern, lotus flower tea light and Gyotaku (Japanese fish painting) activity while enjoying tasty Thai-inspired snacks. Step into the glowing

world of A Wish in the Dark by Christina Soontornvat. Inspired by the vibrant setting and themes of the book, like the magical lights that fill the sky in the book. Registration required @ madl.org.

Free community dinner hosted by Winston Speedway @ Rothbury Community Center, 5-7 p.m.

Estate Planning for peace of mind @ White Lake Community Library, 5:30 p.m. Get the essentials for estate planning from local attorney Andrew Mateskon in this free presentation. Registration appreciated at wlclib.org/ calendar.

All are welcome to an early Thanksgiving feast/community harvest dinner @ St. Peter's By-the-Lake Episcopal Church in Montague, 6-7 p.m.

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

Thursday, Nov. 13

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.

Family Night author visit from Kelley Peel @ White Lake Community Library, 5:30 p.m. Meet Ludwig the Hippo and Kameel the Giraffe from Peel's children's books. Story time, handson art project included. All ages welcome.

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

Friday, Nov. 14

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 Community Library, 2 p.m. Tweens 10 and up are invited to play video games, do crafts, eat snacks or just hang out!

The Acousticats perform @ White Lake Eagles, 7 p.m.

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

Echoes of History: Whitehall Sneak Thief (pt. 3)

By Barbara Bedau Brow Volunteer Contributor

Parts 1 and 2 of this story ran in the Oct. 24 and 31 issues of the White Lake Mirror.

It was then learned that he was in fact Gabriel Gabrielson, who was only recently released on parole from Ionia. It later developed that Gabrielson had been guilty of several other burglaries in Whitehall, chief among which was Aug. 26, when he entered F. D. Glazier’s house and, after appropriating several articles of value, set fire to the house. The watch, and other jewelry which he stole from Mr. Glazier’s house, he gave to a woman in Muskegon of the demi-monde type who upon hearing of his arrest decamped to parts unknown. Most of the stolen property was recovered and returned after the arrest.

It seemed that Gabrielson was a degenerate and Whitehall people against whom his depredations were chiefly aimed breathed a sigh of relief under the realization that he was safely behind bars and likely to remain there for

some time.

He had been employed in A. T. Linderman’s factory in Muskegon and had evidently reformed, but his craze for crime proved too strong for him.

The other party to the burglary had not as yet been apprehended.

On Thursday, Oct. 8, 1908, it was reported that Gabrielson, who was convicted of burglary the previous week and who had been confined in the county jail awaiting sentencing, made a sensational getaway the previous Tuesday afternoon about four o’clock. Attorney F. W. Cook had been to the jail to consult his client, Charles Rutledge, and on his concluding his visit the deputy unlocked the door to let him out. No sooner was the door opened then Gabe, who was standing near the door, made a leap through. The deputy was taken by surprise but briefly grappled with the fleeing man. Breaking free, he slammed the door shut and started in pursuit. Gabrielson rushed through the corridors into the sheriff’s office and into the alley with an officer close at his heels. The desire for liberty and the knowledge that a long prison sen-

tence awaited him lent wings to the feet of the escaping burglar, and after a chase of 4-5 blocks through the alleys, he managed to evade his pursuer and was lost from sight.

Gabrielson kept his liberty until the next Wednesday evening around 7:45, when he boarded an interurban car at Spring Lake bound for Grand Haven, where he expected to take a boat to Milwaukee. The conductor of the car happened also to be a deputy sheriff of Ottawa County and, recognizing Gabrielson from his description, took him in charge. He offered little or no resistance, and the deputy, upon being notified, came in the next car and escorted the prisoner back to the county jail.

The 1910 and 1920 Census both showed Gabe as an inmate of the Michigan Reformatory in Ionia. No other information about him seems to be available after that time.

Gabriel Severin Gabrielson was born in Whitehall June 2, 1888 to Gabriel and Matilda (nee Halgren) Gabrielson and was baptized in the Lebanon Lutheran Church July 1, 1888.

Gabriel’s father was a sailor on the

Schooner Ida. He had been sailing for a number of years and was a trusty man. The big three-mast schooner had left Chicago with freight for A. Mears and other merchants in town but encountered a terrible gale in mid-lake. She held her course, and when this shore was reached, she sailed up and down before the harbor, vainly attempting an entrance. Finally, the captain headed back to Chicago and after weathering a fearful sea, Gabrielson was swept overboard and drowned Saturday, Nov. 19, 1887. He left a pregnant wife and yearold daughter, Gertrude (1886-1958), who were residing in Swedentown.

The 1900 Census indicated that Gabe’s widowed mother Matilda was working as a laundress.

On June 5, 1906, Matilda married Carl August Johnson in the Lebanon Lutheran Church, and they had two children: Irene Eveline (1909-1964) and Carl Aleck (1912-2000). Carl August died Sept. 10, 1930 and Matilda died Nov. 20, 1934. They are both buried in Oakhurst Cemetery.

By Virginia DeMumbrum Volunteer Contributor

The library is hosting another blood drive! If you’re an eligible donor and would like to help save lives in our community, please consider signing up to donate blood right here in the library meeting room. The drive is scheduled for Monday, Nov. 17, from 12:30-5 p.m. Appointments are preferred, but walk-ins are welcome as the schedule allows. To schedule a donation, just call 866-642-5663 or visit bit.ly/wlclblood.

tered in Grand Rapids specializing in blood products and services and providing expert medical and technical support. Founded in 1955, it is the primary provider of blood products and services throughout Michigan and is an established leader in quality and service. For more information, visit versiti.org/Michigan.

FUN FACT: Did you know that every two seconds, someone in the U.S. needs blood? A single blood donation can save up to three lives, which is especially important considering only 38% of the U.S. population is eligible to donate blood, and only 3% of age-eligible donors give blood each year.

Don’t Miss the Many Great Programs This Week

club, knitting club, grandmothers group, and writers group. This week, we’re also offering 3 additional programs for community members of all ages.

Wednesday, November 12, at 5:30 p.m., join us for an estate planning workshop with attorney Andrew Mateskon. He’ll walk you through the essentials of estate planning in clear, approachable language so you can protect your loved ones, honor your wishes, and reduce stress for everyone involved.

Versiti Blood Center of Michigan is a non-profit organization headquar-

You probably already know about the weekly storytimes, yoga classes, and teen hangouts at the library, plus the various clubs and groups that meet regularly, like the cookbook club, book

Thursday, November 13, you can choose between two different author events. There will be a Family Night with local author Kelley Peel at the library at 5:30, and a Lakeshore Big Read Author Talk with Leif Enger at Muskegon Community College at 6 p.m. At the Family Night, kids and families will enjoy stories, hands-on art experiences, and more. At the MCC event, attendees

will hear from the award-winning author of I Cheerfully Refuse. The evening will also include other readings and musical performances. Books will also be available for purchase. For more details about any of these events, please give us a call or visit our website at wlclib.org/calendar. You can also find us on Facebook!

DeMumbrum

Lake Mirror Lake Mirror

NONPROFIT NEWS SOURCE community

Jazwinski caps perfect season with state title

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

All one needs to know about why Whitehall junior Bobby Jazwinski is now a state champion is in the schedule he kept the day after winning the Division 2 meet Saturday at Michigan International Speedway - two different six-mile runs.

"I still have a few more races, hopefully four more, this season," Jazwinski said by way of explanation (his next race is the coaches' association meet of champions in Shepherd this Saturday).

"I love running so much. Any day without it seems not fulfilled. It really calms me and makes me feel very free. I couldn't imagine my life without running."

It's a life that now includes a state championship after Jazwinski outraced East Grand Rapids' Jonah Workman by five seconds on the MIS course. Jazwinski's time was 15:07.1, which was the third-best time of his careerall three have been set in the last three weeks - and just 11 seconds off his personal best from regionals a week prior.

Among Bobby's cheering section at the race was sister Jessie, herself a twotime state champ. She came up from

North Carolina State University - she's a freshman runner for the Wolfpack - to surprise him.

"The day before the race I woke up and saw my sister making breakfast downstairs and I was like, 'What are you doing here?'" Jazwinski chuckled. "My dad (Bob) told me the night before that he was getting something for my grandpa in Grand Rapids, and he brought back my sister. I was very surprised to see her. It was great to see her and have her there at the state meet."

Jessie and Bobby did run on the same course two years ago, when both

were Hart runners; Bobby earned allstate that year. Bobby said the course didn't run much differently than it did back in 2023, though because the Division 2 race is later in the day than the D-3 race, it was a bit warmer this time around.

Jazwinski entered the finals race with the strategy of running along with the pack for two miles before making his move to pull away. Vikings coach Jeff Bassett and Jazwinski's dad told Bobby that anyone who stayed with him after he made that move would be his competition down the stretch, and

only Workman did. Jazwinski had won every race this season by large margins - including against Workman at the Portage Invitational, when he won by 31 seconds - making Saturday's a mental test as much as a physical one.

"When I saw Jonah still with him coming into the stadium, that was the first time this season someone was really testing Bobby's resolve," Bassett said. "It takes a special athlete to be able to deal with all that pressure (of being the favorite), rise to the challenge and be

Vikes get rolling early, beat Tri-County

Advance to 6th straight district finals game

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

Whitehall shook off a good early start from Tri-County in Friday night's pre-district matchup, scoring three straight touchdowns to go up 20 points on the way to a 38-22 victory.

The Vikings (6-4) got in the end zone each of the first four times they had the ball after Tri-County's opening touchdown, riding an impressive running game. Quarterback Cole Essebaggers was the standout performer on offense, rushing for 125 yards and two touchdowns and throwing for 85 yards and another score. Essebaggers also sealed the win with a pick-six in the fourth quarter.

"I think Cole played a really good game in a lot of places, whether it was running the ball or orchestrating the offense," Whitehall coach Tony Sigmon said. "There were times we were really dynamic. Liam (Leeke) ran the ball hard, and the blocking was good."

Leeke indeed ran well, powering his way for a workmanlike 89 yards and a touchdown on 24 carries. Hunter Osborne posted 87 yards of offense.

Hunter Peterson recorded 12 tackles to lead the Whitehall defense. Essebaggers had 10 takedowns and Corde Anderson nine, including two for a loss.

Sigmon said Tri-County displayed a balanced offensive attack, though after falling behind the visiting Vikings were

forced to the air with 30 pass attempts. Sigmon is familiar with Tri-County coach Phil Butler, who played at Hope College when Sigmon was at Alma College, and said Butler should be proud of the program he's built.

Tri-County briefly applied some game pressure to Whitehall in the fourth quarter, cutting the Vikes' 28-8 lead to 31-22 and getting the ball back, but Essebaggers picked off the first pass of the next drive and took it to the house to secure the win.

It's likely the Vikings' grueling non-conference schedule, not to mention the West Michigan Conference Lakes, contributed to their success.

"The one thing we talk to the kids

Whitehall players surround a punt as they down it deep in Tri-County territory during Friday's playoff football game at Whitehall. The Vikings won, 38-22.

• Amanda Dodge/Mirror

Vikings' star earns his closest win of season

Whitehall's Colten Kyser stiff-arms a Tri-County defender on his way to more yardage during Friday's playoff game at Whitehall. The Vikings won, 38-22. • Amanda Dodge/Mirror

At right, Whitehall's Bobby Jazwinski heads down the home stretch with East Grand Rapids' Jonah Workman in pursuit during Saturday's Division 2 state finals. Jazwinski won the race to complete a perfect season. At left, Bobby celebrates his victory with sister Jessie, who surprised him by flying up from NC State University to watch him win. • Photos courtesy of Jazwinski family

Whitehall's Cole Essebaggers goes into the end zone for a touchdown after intercepting a pass late in Friday's playoff game against Tri-County. The Vikings won the game, 38-22.

• Christopher Verhulst/Courtesy Photo

Whitehall

Moss' 4 TDs lead Wildcats past C. Montcalm

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

It's been clear all season that Cole Moss provides a different dimension for the Montague Wildcats, and Friday night saw him show that talent on a postseason stage.

Moss opened the scoring against Central Montcalm with a 75-yard punt return touchdown in the first quarter, scored two touchdowns on the ground and caught the final score in the air, spearheading the Wildcats to a dominant 40-20 victory.

With the win, Montague advanced

State title

able to have a finishing kick like that after such a tough race."

Jazwinski said he's gotten great advice from his sister over the years on the pressures of the state finals meet, and that, in addition to his own experience from 2023, gave him the tools he needed to close it out.

"It was so much relief and happiness," Jazwinski said of his emotions upon crossing the finish line. "Words can't describe how happy I was to win a state title."

Jazwinski is the only runner in the state of Michigan to win every race he entered this year, a goal he set prior to the season. He said he wrote it on his wall and used it as motivation any time he needed a boost to put in the necessary work.

"I looked at it every day," Jazwinski said. "It felt great to end the season accomplishing my goal. There's nothing quite like it."

Given his success, it's no surprise Jazwinski is already receiving some collegiate attention. He said he "100 percent" wants to run in college, though he's kept the focus on his junior season so far. Once he's done with his meets for the year, he said he will likely begin looking at taking some college visits.

Two teammates joined Jazwinski at state - Rex Pumford and Hunter Parsons. Pumford, a sophomore, finished 88th at state, with a time of 16:39.8, and

to face Reed City on the road in the district finals.

"We try to do a lot of things to make sure he touches the ball," Montague coach Phil Koops said of Moss. "(His punt return score) was huge for the confidence. You're playing an opponent that's 7-2, and to get off to a great start was huge."

The Wildcats (6-4) entered the game confident their strength of schedule in the rugged West Michigan Conference Lakes, plus non-conference tilts against very good Forest Hills Eastern, Ravenna and North Muskegon squads, would work in their favor, and that's exactly

what happened.

A key sequence in the game was the 'middle eight' - the four minutes that end the first half and begin the second. It's every coach's desire to win that stretch of the game, and Montague did it in resounding fashion, scoring three touchdowns in that span. Cooper Bradley scored a touchdown with 3:20 to go in the first half, then Moss ripped off a 49-yard run with 1:02 to go, and the 'Cats also scored on the first drive of the third quarter when Fletcher Thommen punched it in from eight yards out. Those touchdowns made it 34-6 and from then on Montague was in total

control.

Koops looks forward to the big matchup with Reed City, which has faced the Wildcats in each of their last three playoff trips and knocked them out the last two.

"It'll be strength on strength," Koops said. "We're pretty good at stopping the run, and they're pretty good at running the ball, and we're pretty good at running the ball. You'd think they're pretty good at taking on double teams and down blocks, so we'll see who flinches first."

continued from page 4

Parsons placed 127th, with a time of 16:54.4. For Parsons, who beat his 2023 time at the speedway by 12 seconds, it was his final high school run as he is a senior.

"At MIS, he stayed tough throughout the race and finished with his best time at MIS," Bassett said. It was a hardfought race and a great way to finish his senior season. Hunter has made a big impact on Whitehall cross-country over his four years.

"Rex qualifying as a sophomore... was an amazing accomplishment. Although his race at MIS didn't go exactly how he wanted it to, he stayed tough and got to experience the atmosphere of the state meet."

Jazwinski said his two teammates would've been his picks to run with him at state above any other athletes and praised both their performances.

"I think both of them ran very well," Jazwinski said. "I thought it was awesome...They both deserved to be there so much."

Montague boys squad takes 27th at state

Montague's boys cross-country squad finished 27th at the Division 3 state meet Saturday in Brooklyn, led by Nolan Kessler taking 69th place.

Kessler just barely missed equaling his personal best time Saturday, scor-

Whitehall wins

about with the schedule is that they should be numb to decals and names," Sigmon said. "They've played tough competition all year long. On the front end and the back end, there aren't any gimmes there on our schedule...and for us to navigate all that and be a playoff team is a credit to our coaches and our kids."

With the win, Whitehall earned a road trip to Saginaw Swan Valley for the district championship next week, the sixth straight season Whitehall has

continued from page 4

played for the district trophy. The Vikings know they'll likely have to play better than they did Friday to come away with the victory; that's just the nature of playoff football.

"We went from week 9 and everyone's playing, to this week half the teams are playing, and next week it's 128," Sigmon said. "The more we can play consistently good football, that will matter, because the margin of error is really not there anymore."

ing a time of 16:44.7 - six seconds more than his regional time from a week prior.

Gibson Smith was the second Wildcat to finish, coming in 145th place with a time of 17:27.8. Wesley Mair cleared 18 minutes - his second time doing so in his career - and finished 189th in a time of 17:59.8.

Also for Montague, Matthew Leatherman placed 208th in a time of 18:24.4, and Brock Hunter was 217th in a time of 18:39.0 to close out the scoring. Wildcats Jonathan Mueller (241st, 19:37.5) and Carson Jasick (256th, 20:30.7) also finished the race, with Jasick setting a new personal best.

Leatherman is the only Wildcat se-

nior who ran for the boys' team, so the remaining Montague athletes will be in position to make another finals run in 2026.

Rockets' Bilek ends career with state finals run

Reeths-Puffer senior Jersi Bilek ended her high school career Saturday in the Division 1 state finals, placing 180th out of 249 runners.

Bilek ran a time of 20:11.6, her ninth straight race of 20:20 or better.

It was the third straight season running at the Michigan International Speedway for Bilek, who previously finished 63rd and 165th.

Whitehall's Liam Leeke stretches for the end zone during Friday's playoff game against Tri-County. Leeke was ruled short on the play, but the Vikings went on to win 38-22.

• Amanda Dodge/Mirror

Rockets fall to No. 10 Grand Haven in districts

Reeths-Puffer ended its season Wednesday night, falling to No. 10-ranked Grand Haven in the district semifinals at Mona Shores, 25-18, 25-15, 25-13. The team finished with a 19-21 record.

The match also ended Rockets' coach Justin Birr's six-year tenure leading the program, as he told the school's athletic website following the match that he's chosen to resign to spend more time with his wife and two young children. Birr has coached in the program for 12 seasons.

Kate Tindall again led the offense from her setter position with 12 assists. She also had a team-best two aces. Carlee Bowen paced the defense with eight digs.

Lexie Danz had a team-high five kills to lead Rocket attackers. Tindall added

a block.

Whitehall, Montague go 0-2 at Big Rapids Quad

Both Montague and Whitehall posted 0-2 records last Thursday at the Big Rapids Quad to end their regular seasons. Both teams lost to Big Rapids and Lake City.

The Vikings fell by scores of 22-25, 25-20, 25-9 to Lake City and 25-21, 25-15 to Big Rapids. Montague dropped matches 25-22, 25-21 to Lake City and 25-13, 25-9 to Big Rapids. Statistics were not reported from the matches.

Whitehall's Bobby Jazwinski stays with the pack early in Saturday's Division 2 state finals race. Jazwinski stayed with the lead pack for the first two miles before pulling away for the state title. • Photo courtesy of Jazwinski family

Montague fights hard in loss to top seed Fruitport

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

MONTAGUE — Montague "left it all on the floor," said coach Gretchen Schneider, to push top seed Fruitport to a fourth game Wednesday in the district semifinals, and didn't have the juice to get to a fifth, falling 25-16, 25-16, 23-25, 25-13. It's the second year in a row Fruitport has knocked Montague out of the playoffs.

The Wildcats' brightest spot was clearly game three, in which Montague rallied from a 23-21 deficit to score four straight points and get a big crowd of blue-clad supporters on their feet. The 'Cats scored kills on three straight points before a Fruitport attack error gave them the game three win.

Schneider called timeout when Fruitport was up 23-21 and urged her team to play with nothing to lose - because, as she said, at that point they didn't.

"They were playing apprehensively," Schneider said. "They weren't playing volleyball. They were going through the motions, and that's not how we prepared. We prepared to play volleyball and to loosen up. We took a couple deep breaths in the timeout and reset and refocused...They went out and just let it rip."

It was a mindset that perhaps wasn't quite all the way there in the first two games, each of which Fruitport seized control of early. The Trojans took a 15-8 lead in game one and a 15-4 edge in

game two and never looked back either time.

"I thought we were going to start a lot stronger," Schneider said. "We just came out of the gates so incredibly slow. I think if we would have taken game one or two, things would've swung differently."

Montague did hang with Fruitport early in game four, but after a 6-6 tie, the Trojans again seized control as they had in the first two games, and Montague couldn't answer.

There is of course no shame in bowing out to Fruitport, a tradition-rich program with ample recent success under veteran coach Nicole Bayle, including a regional title a year ago.

"Fruitport is amazing," Schneider said. "They have such a strong program under Nicole. We beat ourselves tonight in a lot of aspects, but you can't take anything away from them. They're a good team. They do very well."

Montague, meanwhile, bid farewell to six seniors, each of whom played big roles on the team and each of whom was lauded by Schneider for their efforts this season. Setter Emalee McGee led the team Wednesday with eight kills in addition to her 13 assists, and her timely attacks at the net often caught Fruitport off guard and helped the 'Cats extend the match. Reagan Cederquist posted a team-best 21 digs, with Gentry Knop close behind with 19. Jenna Woller, Abriana Ramthun and Abbi Tallquist each contributed in various ways when need-

ed, including a stint at setter for Woller earlier this season due to injury.

The future, too, looks bright for Montague with a "loaded" JV team, Schneider said, ready to contribute next fall. The Wildcats got a sprinkling of that Wednesday with Bailey Darke, one call-up, contributing a pair of aces at the service line.

"That JV team, they had a lot of arsenal on there that they're going to be setting up," Schneider said. "It's getting pretty exciting."

Montague defeats Oakridge with good net play

Montague bounced back from a game one defeat to knock off Oakridge Monday in pre-district action, 20-25, 25-

22, 25-21, 25-16.

The Wildcats were efficient offensively throughout the match. Reagan Cederquist led the attackers with 12 kills, and Annelyse Schneider added nine. Emalee McGee passed out 31 assists.

Defensively, Montague dominated at the net. Schneider had six blocks and Cederquist had two. Ellee Smith, brought up from the JV team due to an injury, added a block of her own, as did Hallie VanTuyl.

Gentry Knop hit a career milestone on defense during the match, recording her 1,000th dig. She had 36 in the match, and Cederquist added 21.

McGee posted four aces and led the team with 20 service points.

Whitehall bows out to Spring Lake in semis

By Andy Roberts White Lake Mirror Editor

MONTAGUE — Many of Whitehall's players had not yet seen a stage quite like the district semifinal Wednesday against a Spring Lake program with a lot of pedigree.

The Vikings showed that inexperience early in a 25-13, 25-17, 25-20 loss, but played more competitively as the match wore on. That gives the team and coach Claire McGrew motivation to come back next fall and produce a better outcome.

"It's really hard to keep morale high (when you're struggling), but these girls stayed positive through that," McGrew said. "A lot of adversities came our way, and we just dealt with them and rolled with it, which is super admirable. I'm really proud of these girls. I think they're really paving the way for a new traditional program here at Whitehall. I told them that even if they haven't seen the success, they truly are setting it up for the future girls in this program."

Spring Lake overwhelmed the Vikings early in game one, jumping out to a 16-4 lead. Whitehall was able to adjust to the speed of the match eventually and rallied to score several late points, and parlayed that finish into a 4-1 lead early in game two. However, the Lakers stormed back to tie the score at 10, took the lead a few points later, and ultimately pulled away.

Game three was similar, with Whitehall taking a 4-2 lead to start off before six straight Laker points turned the momentum. The Vikings did make one final push late in the game before Spring Lake finished it off.

McGrew said errors were an issue for Whitehall in trying to sustain any momentum. It goes without saying that the Lakers, the No. 2 seed in the district, are a strong opponent against whom

any team must bring a strong performance to defeat, and at times Whitehall appeared close to that level of play. Consistency is the area the Vikes will work hardest to address before next fall.

"If we put free balls out of bounds, that's on us," McGrew said. "That's an unforced error. Being able to limit those about to a couple of a game versus 7-10, that's huge, That's like free points, if you think about it. We started off getting aced. Their serving was great, but our adjustments were a little slow."

McGrew and other coaches in the program are working to build participation at all levels, including bringing back an elementary school league. Some returning players will play at the club level during the offseason, and open gym activities will certainly continue throughout the school year.

The thing the Vikings can take the most pride in, McGrew said, was their effort level never wavering throughout the season.

"One thing that we have been complimented (on) all season, and that's what I just told the girls, is that we have played hard regardless of the outcome," McGrew said. "At the end, we've really been playing our best volleyball, which is all I can ask for. We're young, so coming into a district semifinal, there's a lot of weight on that still...Having a chip on our shoulder, we now have that experience, so we're able to lean back on it in the future."

Vikings defeat Orchard View in first round

Whitehall earned a sweep of Orchard View Monday night at Montague to open district play, 25-16, 25-13, 2520.

Efficient offensive nights from Delaney Kramer and Kaylin Skuse led Whitehall to the win. Each player had

eight kills, and Skuse had a team-high .368 hitting percentage. Lou Mulder had 24 assists.

The Vikes were also excellent at the service line, making only three errors while racking up 19 aces. Mulder had

six of those aces, and Kramer and Peyton Schultz each added four. On defense, Kate Beda compiled 25 digs and Maggy Michaelson added 12. Clare Westerlund had a pair of blocks.

Montague's Abbi Tallquist (13) hits the floor to try to make a play during Wednesday's district semifinal match against Fruitport. Montague lost a close match, 3-1.

• Andy Roberts/Mirror

Whitehall's Lou Mulder (1) and Rachel Szot, left, leap to block an attack by Spring Lake's Peyton Hein during Wednesday's district semifinal in Montague. Szot and Braelee Fogus, right, try to stop the Lakers' Abbey Rogalski. Whitehall lost, 3-0.

• Andy Roberts/Mirror

Get ready for the annual White Lake Holiday Walk

The 32nd annual White Lake Area Holiday Walk is approaching, with events scheduled for Nov. 21-22 as local residents welcome the holiday season.

The event begins Friday, Nov. 21 from 2-8 p.m. and continues Saturday, Nov. 22 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Things get rolling with the tree lighting ceremonies, taking place at the Artisan Market Village in Montague at 5:30 p.m. Nov. 21 (caroling begins at 5) and on the North Mears Promenade in Whitehall at 6:30 p.m. (caroling begins at 6).

In addition to carols, enjoy visits with Santa and free hot cocoa. Children are invited to bring an ornament - homemade or store-bought - to hang on either community tree, and participating local shops will also have make-and-take ornament activities.

Free old-fashioned carriage rides will take place throughout the Nov. 21 evening in both towns from 5-8, with boarding taking place at the tree lighting

sites.

The fun continues Saturday, Nov. 22 with trolley rides from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. The hub will be at Artisan Market Village in Montague, but the trolley will travel between both cities and local residents are welcome to flag down the trolley along its route.

In addition to those activities, there will be holiday open houses throughout both downtown areas that will feature special sales, gift guides, festive refreshments, and plenty of holiday magic.

For full event details and participating businesses, visit www.whitelake.org/holiday-walk-participants or call 231-893-4585.

The White Lake Holiday Walk might be crashed by the Grinch, but it will still be full of holiday cheer as local residents welcome the start of the season.

• Andy Roberts/Mirror File Photo

Feeding America food pantry to visit Whitehall

The Feeding America Mobile Food Pantry will visit Whitehall Congregational United Church of Christ Saturday, Nov. 15. The pantry provides groceries at no cost to anyone in need of emergency food. Food boxes will be distributed drive-through style in the parking lot.

Registration (no ID required) begins at 8:30 a.m. with distribution from 10-11 a.m. This institution is an equal opportunity provider. For updates and more information, visit the church's page on Facebook or telephone the office at 231-893-3265.

Friends of Montague Library book sale Nov. 22

The Friends of the Montague Library will be hosting their bi-annual used book sale Saturday, Nov. 22 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The used book sale will take place in the Council Chambers at Montague City Hall, 8778 Ferry Street. The sale will feature a variety of books and

genres at a low cost, all $1 and $2 each. All proceeds go directly to supporting the Montague Branch Library and literacy in the White Lake Area. Readers are invited to stock up on great books for the winter months, and support the local library.

Christmas parade registration now open

Registration is open for the White Lake Area’s Christmas parade, set for Saturday, Dec. 6 at 2 p.m. The parade will follow its traditional route from Whitehall City Hall to Montague City Hall.

Entry is free to all White Lake Area Chamber & Visitor's Bureau members, non-profit groups, and (non-business) individuals, and $25 to non-Chamber businesses and politicians.

For more information or to register for the parade, contact the White Lake Area Chamber at 231-893-4585 or find an application under Event Applications at www.whitelake.org.

Nonprofits and White Lake Area Chamber members can be part of the White Lake Christmas Parade at no charge.

• Andy Roberts/Mirror File Photo

White Lake Chamber Music Society to host upcoming recitals, lectures

The White Lake Chamber Music Society will host a special recital event Sunday, Nov. 23 at Lebanon Lutheran Church, 1101 S. Mears Ave. in Whitehall. This 3 p.m. cello/piano recital with Kuang-Hao Huang and Marina Hoover, will feature Chopin’s Piano and Cello Sonata in G Minor, Massenet’s Meditation, Shostakovich’s Piano and Cello Sonata, and more. Tickets are $25 at the door or on Eventbrite.

The 2025-26 Winter White Lake Music Series continues to run December 2025 through March 2026, featuring a variety of events that include live classical music performances plus lectures by Bob Swan, Dr. Thomas Carson, Foley Schuler, and Lazaro Vega. These great events will help to turn the drudgery of cold, winter months into a reason to come together, strengthening community ties and bringing greater vibrancy to the White Lake area.

On Dec. 12, 2025 Bob Swan will present a lecture entitled “The World’s

Greatest Christmas Music Through the Ages” as part of the White Lake Methodist’s Festival of the Trees celebration. It takes place at 7 p.m. at White Lake Methodist Church, 8555 Cook St. Montague. Donations will be received and shared between White Lake Methodist and the Music Society.

Dr. Thomas Carson will discuss The Lessons of Apollo at a lecture Jan. 27, 2026 at 7 p.m. at the Book Nook & Java Shop. Carson will discuss his fascination with Project Apollo, the U.S. space program's mission to put a man on the moon.

Lazaro Vega will perform a selection of jazz solos at the Book Nook & Java Shop Feb. 24, 2026 at 7 p.m. Emphasis will be on music of the 1940s and 1950s.

For more information, please text or call Director Sondra Cross at 231329-3056. For a schedule of this year’s events, please visit www.whitelakemusic.org.

Montague Class of 1965 celebrates 60th reunion

The Montague High School Class of 1965 had its 60th class reunion Oct. 22 at Gary’s Restaurant in Whitehall.

Event co-chair Ken Mahoney said, “Everyone had a great time chatting with one another and reminiscing over dinner."

The event's other co-chair, Valarie Brazaski, added, “It was a festive evening and it was great to reflect on what’s been happening with each other.”

•

Courtesy Photo

The Oceana Echo - Volume 3, Issue 24, November 7, 2025

Honor & Valor

U.S. Coast Guard veteran Lori Hogston still serving today

Pentwater students honor veterans

Area meetings for veterans

Nichole Kleiner unanimously chosen as new Hart City Manager

The Armistice Day Storm - Part Three: The SS Anna C. Minch

Ongoing

The Ladder to host Give Thanks Supper and worship event

Hart Veterans Day Program planned for Tuesday morning

Free concert set for Nov. 22 at Hart Wesleyan

Can drives continue for Hart VFW and Pentwater VFW posts

Annual Fall Bazaar planned at Hart UMC Nov. 14

N ovember

Pentwater Lake Association board meeting is Nov. 17

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ON

OCEANA COUNTY’S 2026 BUDGET

OCEANA COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS

Shelby Congregational UCC welcomes Russell Aspinwall as new pastor

The Lamb of God'

In Loving Memory of our Family, Friends and Neighbors

obituaries

Jacob ‘Jake’ Dale Nienhuis

November 22, 2003 ~ November 1, 2025

Phyllis Jean Arnold

Barbara May Smith May 16, 1935 ~ October 26, 2025

Mark Allen Robbins

Oceana County

ANIMAL SHELTER

PUBLIC NOTICE

ORDINANCE NO. 5

AN ORDINANCE FOR ESTABLISHING REGULATIONS FOR TOWNSHIP PARKS

In Loving Memory of our Family, Friends and

obituaries

Phyllis Elizabeth Webber

January 23, 1944 ~ October 31, 2025

PUBLIC NOTICE PENTWATER TOWNSHIP

Oceana Center Grange Agricultural Report for November

OCMCF Board addresses operational issues, employee concerns

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SHELBY PUBLIC SCHOOLS - 2026 PROJECTS SHELBY, MI

SECTION 00025

Oceana Community Foundation announces fall community grant awards

Defense stands tall for Tigers in playoff victory over Pine River

Hart teams earn top-10 finishes at state

Hart makes Cinderella run to district finals

Hesperia knocks off Holton to open districts

Ravenna edges Shelby in tough 1st-round match

Shelby’s big win

Reflections of our community

Reflections

Reflections of our community

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Whitehall voters elect Ziemer as new mayor

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Jazwinski caps perfect season with state title

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Moss' 4 TDs lead Wildcats past C. Montcalm

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